B O L L Y W O O D H A W A

Amitabh Bachchan

2008-10-23T01:44:00.000-07:00

The friendly ghost in the tinsel town is ready to play, sing, dance, and entertain you with his banter gimmick. Yes Big B is all set to hit the silver screen from May 9 in the disguise of BHOOTHNATH to tickle your funny bone rather than scare your nerve. Let's hear it from Big B what he has to say about his new 'avtar' BHOOTHNATH

Q: First of all, there is inquisitiveness about the title BHOOTHNATH which sounds paradoxical in outlook, what is the implication of this title in the film?
A: This is perhaps your interpretation; we have never considered it in this manner. The 'Bhoot' of this film is Mr. Nath. The child (Banku) in this film never believes in ghost, according to him there are only angels in life. And this bemuses Banku when he comes to know that Mr. Nath is the ghost and therefore he address him 'BHOOTHNATH'

Q: You have been given a very peculiar look for Ghost, why? How would you define your look in this film?
A: Yes, that was required as per the film. The director wanted to carry such shabby look as he wanted that the 'Bhoot' should appear in the state he was when he died. And of course the fact that he lived in this manner and there has been no change in his continence or his dress appearance so his nails are dirty and long, he hasn't brush his teeth, his hairs are unkempt, he's put on weight. So you will find a healthier and uncanny individual until the time when he meets this sweet little kid 'Banku'. His world changes when he meets the little fellow. As and when their bonding fortifies and their liking develops towards each other the 'Bhoothnath' undergoes several changes. He improvises his attire, his behavior and transforms himself into relatively normal looking person.

Q: Do you personally believe in ghosts?
A: No, I don't believe in ghosts.

Q: You are a friendly ghost in BHOOTHNATH?
A: Yes this ghost is very benevolent. Initially he is not friendly with anyone as he doesn't want people to come and occupy his space but eventually he is very kindhearted and nice person and a nice 'Bhoot'.

Q: So the earlier portion of the movie is scary?
A: No not at all.

Q: The target audience is mainly children?
A: I hope everybody watches this film. This film is for everyone. But yes there is a kid in the film and if that according to you is the attraction for the film than yes.

Q: As per the promos, the kid plays pranks with you in the movie; did you ever play any prank on sets?
A: We keep having a lot of fun with each other while we are shooting and also when the shot is getting ready. The child (Aman) is very fond of playing cricket and video games, so he used to get it on the sets and play in between the shots.

Q: How would the kids address you on sets 'Bhoot uncle' or 'Amit Uncle'

A: I can't remember anyone calling me 'Bhoot uncle' or 'Amit Uncle' or at times just come in to say Amitabh Bachchan

Q: Any signature dialogue which people would love to carry?
A: No I don't think so and I don't think there is any need for it either. The film is not about signature dialogue, it's about relationship between grandson and his grandfather.

Q: Any dialogue which is emphatic and signifies the entire story of the film?
A: I think it's throughout the film because he is such a benevolent ghost and not evil and because he deals with the kid, there are moments which trap the film where he guides the kid, teaches him the values of life. He is very keen to make sure that even though he may not be around to be with the kid all his life, he should follow certain principles of life and respect values attached to life. And those are the most valuable things that the ghost is able to give to the child. Respect towards parents, the importance of family, importance of obedience, importance of struggle to fight for the position with honesty, etc. just common values of life which every parent wants to inculcate in their young generation.

Q: You have worked with kids in movies like BLACK, CHEENI KUM and now BHOOTHNATH, How difficult / easy is to work with them? Does it require extra efforts?
A: They are very intelligent people. They are the most accomplished artists and at times they'll also surprise you with their deeds and actions once the camera goes on. So you always have to be very alert.

Q: You have done films in different genre, have you ever played ghost in your career or this is the first time we will see you as ghost on screen?
A: Ya, I think I haven't done such genre film. This is perhaps; one of the first ones.

Q: What attracted you to be part of this film was it the script or the banner?
A: Lot of things induced me to sign this film actually; it's the face of the producer, director, his talent, past work, script, story, the cast with which we have to work all these factors and collective belief contribute to frame a final decision. But it's not always true, sometimes you are ready to work in a particular film because of your amicable relationship with director or producer or good friends or just the story which makes you blindly accept it.

Q: BHOOTHNATH has two other prominent stars like the bubbly and chirpy Juhi Chawla and SRK? How was your experience working with them? Do you share any scenes with her in the film?
A: Yes Juhi is there throughout the film with me. I have worked with her earlier also. Shahrukh plays the husband of Juhi who comes in the end. He has a guest appearance in the film. It was wonderful working with them again, we had fun.

Q: Finally, what do you think what would be audience's response to this film?
A: There isn't a single producer / director in the world who would not say that I hope my film is a big success.

Kajol

2008-10-23T01:42:00.001-07:00

Kajol has several bees on her bonnet right now. Besides the fact that she is a workingwoman, wife and mother, she also dreams of opening an orphanage for deprived children. This actor has given us some of the best hits of Bollywood such as DILWALE DULHANIYA LE JAAYENGE and KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI. Her negative role in GUPT is unforgettable. Post-marriage, she came back with a vengeance in FANAA, opposite Superstar Aamir Khan. Poised for the national premiere of the Devgun's home production U, ME AUR HUM in which she is pitted against husband Ajay who also directed the film, Kajols holds forth on motherhood, her work in cinema and social activism. Our correspondent unplugs her in an intimate interview

What makes Kajol tick?
Why, motherhood of course. I was born to be a mother because I consider motherhood my exclusive niche in life. Nysa is my top priority. I can give up everything and anything for her. Why, the other day, I cancelled a long overdue appointment with a journalist because I had to take Nysa to her friend's birthday party. The sheer joy she felt at the party made my day. I could not have gone with her had I stuck to my interview. Why Nysa alone? I am at the beck and call of my family at all times. It may be husband Ajay or my mother or sister. I think the family is and should be the first priority in any woman's life. They should have that dependence on you that you are there for them no matter who you are, where you are and how you are. I have the same sense of dependence on my mother till today.

Having worked with the best directors in Bollywood, what is your take on Ajay as a director?
He once confessed to me that he dreamt of becoming a director when he was just eight years old. Thus, when he finally decided to direct, he prepared himself thoroughly for this new role. He got himself a bound script and edited the film in his head much before shooting was to begin. He was totally focused on what he had in mind, what he wanted in his cool and calm manner. He does lose his cool but does not let it show. He can control his anger well. His total honesty as an actor in front of the camera spills over when he is behind it. In fact, I would sometimes find his efficiency quite irritating. Everything on the sets would go perfectly according to his plan. And when I say this, I place him against some of the best directors I have worked with such as Aditya Chopra and Karan Johar. In my opinion, Ajay is the best director I have worked with and I am not saying this because he is my husband. He is totally involved in his work.

What is the secret of the Ajay-Kajol happy marriage?
There is no secret at all. It has worked because both of us wanted it to work and we have tremendous love plus respect for one another. You need to work on a relationship and that is what we do in our own little ways every single day. The feeling of caring must be there in both the partners and this does not begin or end with those three words 'I love you.' It is true that I am possessive about him in the same way that I am possessive about Nysa. But we also realise that we need to give some space to each other to grow individually, as a married couple and as Nysa's parents. It is not that we do not have fights or arguments. But these are the things that add spice to a marriage, don't they?

How was the overall experience with your husband directing you on the sets?
Nothing special. He was my husband at home and was the ruthlessly dominating boss on the sets and he told me to accept this change in the equation much before shooting began. After all, I have been an actress for too long to forget my professionalism on the sets and in front of the camera. Not that it did not disturb me at times, but I learnt to cope with it when I understood that he needed to cope with the changed equation as much as I did. He was so well organized that he left no scope at all for discussion, debate or argument.

You want to open an orphanage we hear?
You have heard it right. I definitely want to open an orphanage in the near future. I do not have the time for it right now but the will is there. I want to have some more kids of my own because Nysa needs company closer to her age. Ajay and I have jointly decided to keep her away from the public glare and from the film industry because she is too small and should grow up like any normal child would. It is difficult but we are trying our best. We wish her to grow up with a sense of humour that vests her with the ability to laugh on herself.

Emraan Hashmi

2008-10-23T01:40:00.000-07:00

2006 was an eventful year for Emraan Hashmi. Though he had three releases to his name (GOOD BOY BAD BOY, THE TRAIN, AWARAPAN), only AWARAPAN worked in his favor as it brought him immense critical acclaim. Close to a year after his last release, Emraan gets ready with his latest film JANNAT, yet again with Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt. Joginder Tuteja catches up with the young man to know more about his first release of 2008 - JANNAT.

Q: What character do you potray in JANNAT?
A: The character I play in JANNAT has a whacky and mischievous shades. It is an author backed role. How my character changes from being a street side gambler to that of a man who operates at an international platform brings a completely diverse state of affairs. It is an exciting journey for him in quest of JANNAT as he gets sucked deeper and deeper into the world of cricket.

Q: JANNAT has a lot going along with it - match fixing, betting, Bob Woolmer episode, Azhar and Jadeja scandals. Is there anything more as well?
A: See, references to number of elements that you mention are there in the film though we are not naming any people. JANNAT is not a docu-drama where we start showing the events the way they happened. We are not picking up stars and icons and making their life public. We are here to tell a tale which would certainly have fictional elements as well while keeping the commercial prospects of the film in mind.

Q: Isn't there any fear of censors or any other body?
A: I don't think that censors would have any objections to JANNAT. As I said, we are not picking up people at all. We are talking about things which have actually happened, have been talked about and are generic in nature. Everyone knows to a good extent what really had transpired.

Q: This means JANNAT would boast of yet another shock-fest from the house of Bhatts?
A: Oh, absolutely, you can expect shock value from JANNAT. The good part about the film is that the shock value of the subject is quite relevant even today. In fact if we look closely, in the months gone by, sports have been glorified in Bollywood cinema. CHAK DE INDIA is a living example. Here the world of cricket and what happens beneath will be the focal point of the movie. The film will also bring to light other issues around cricket. (Laughs) Thankfully the post World Cup slump period is over and cricket is back to riding high with India's win over Australia.

Q: With the film having cricket as a backdrop, what part does a leading lady have to play?
A: In building the character graph of the protagonist, it is essential to showcase the relationships he has shared in his life. Why just this film, even if you look at a film which belongs to the horror genre, it is but natural to have a basic premise of a man-woman relationship. There is no point getting away from that. In the film too, the girl plays an important role in the protagonist's journey in the quest for JANNAT. Newcomer Sonal Chauhan is being launched with JANNAT and she has done a very good job in the film.

Q: Other than Sonal Chauhan, even film's director Kunal Deshmukh is a newcomer. How was the experience being a veteran on the sets?
A: This may be Kunal's first film as an independent director but he is not a novice. He has assisted Mohit Suri in 3-4 films. He has done a phenomenal job in the film and that pretty much comes from the fact that he is a die hard cricket fanatic. He knows in and out about the film's subject and has done a thorough research. There was a certain look he wanted to give to the film and I am proud to see the way he has accomplished that.

Q: How exactly?
A: Well, he has got a love story imbibed well into the script even as the film has a basic wallpaper of cricket. Even though he is a debutant director, you hardly get a feel that he is handling a project for the first time. For certain projects you get a feel that things are going quite right. Positive vibes get generated, you know. JANNAT is one of those projects.

Shah Rukh Khan

2008-10-23T01:38:00.000-07:00

When Bollywood Badshah came calling to emerge as the 'Baazigar' of cricket to unveil the Kolkata team, he named Kolkata as 'Knight Riders', B Arindham caught up with the showman himself

How confident are you of turning your IPL venture into a profitable business venture?
I am not. I am not very good with numbers. Obviously there will be some money generated from advertisement, gate sales and all, but I really don't know. The expenses involved are huge and I am not doing the figures. I will see what it is like at the end of the year and then depending on the balance sheet I have to dance at a few more marriages (witty smile).

When did you decide about owning an IPL team?
It did not happen overnight. I was in London recuperating after a neck surgery when I used to watch English Premier League (EPL) and wished if I could own a club in India. But at that point I was thinking in terms of football or hockey. But then the IPL was announced. I got interested and here I am.

Your association with sports goes a long way...
Yes, I studied at St Columbus and was into football, hockey and cricket. I loved sport and still do. I grew up watching Farooq Engineer, Sunil Gavaskar, Gundappa Vishwanath and they are such great players. I was a wicket keeper and would bat six or seven down.

What is your philosophy?
My philosophy is simple. It is to work hard, be honest and win as along as possible. Perhaps the name of the team has connection to my philosophy. I had a hundred names with names like warriors and Indians, but I chose Knight Riders. The point was to play and play to win. It is the feeling of I will do it every morning when I get up.

Why did you choose gold and black as the colours?
Black symbolizes shakti (power) of Maa Kali and Gold is for victory. Every time you win silver, you lose the gold. We want to win the golden helmet.

Why did you pitch in for Kolkata team?
If the auctioning process was ever revealed you will see I had opted for Kolkata team, and other names were given as second and third options. I wanted to own the Kolkata club; because of the passion the people have for sports here. It is a sports crazy city and I wanted Sourav Ganguly to lead my side. I know him for sometime now, I like the way he plays his cricket. He is passionate and hardworking.

How important a part does Aryan play in it?
It is not only for Aryan, but also for all the kids in the nation that we have Hoog Lee (the tiger mascot of the team). He is whacky, lazy and a mirror to us. He is the 17th player in the side. He will hold up a mirror to us if we do anything wrong. He will be fun.

Do you remember the first cricket match you went to see?
Yes, it was an India-Pakistan game at Feroze Shah Kotla. The match ended in a tie. Imran Khan made 30 odd runs. Then I have been to matches in Mumbai and then to 20-20 World Cup.

Who are your sporting idols?
Sunil Gavaskar and P T Usha, simply because they brought dignity to Indian sport.

How has the journey been?
I lost my parents early. Apart form those tragedies; the journey has been fairly happy. And Insallah I have got the love of millions of people. I feel humbled.

Bipasha Basu

2008-10-23T01:36:00.000-07:00

Bipasha Basu is a surprise package. Hiding behind that beautiful body and naughty eyes, is a razor-sharp brain quietly ticking away. Just when everyone is getting ready to see her shapely self in sizzling style in Race, hotting it up with Saif Ali Khan, here she goes all sari-bindi-ethnic jewellery for her first Bangla film SHAWB CHORITRO KALPONIK (All Characters are Fictitious). And who, pray, has directed Bipasha? Rituparno Ghosh himself. If JISM was a tribute to her sex appeal, then Madhur Bhandarkar's CORPORATE offered her the scope to show that she can do much more than just strut her stuff.

You are looking amazing in a sari. What is your own reaction to this radical image change?
I am an actress. I should be prepared to step into any role that I choose to take on. Where does the question of 'image' come in, tell me? As for the change in my looks, well, even my father was surprised and asked me - 'where are your shorts?' The 'look' depends entirely on the demands of the script and the character and not on who is going to portray the character. In SHAWB CHORITRO KALPONIK, I am playing Radhika, a Bengali housewife. So, Ritu-da and I discussed the look I should have. So, I wore the sari, a nice, round and red bindi and some ethnic jewellery throughout the film. That is all there is to it.

How did this offer come to you?
Once, during one of his trips to Mumbai, Ritu-da had narrated a part of the script to me. I had liked it very much. Later, I heard the entire script and even then hesitated a bit because the role demanded some difficult Bengali lines. That was the only reason. Then, I made up my mind and accepted the challenge. In fact, I had been toying with the idea of doing a Bengali film for the past three years. Talks were on with Ritu-da as well. But I could not take a final decision because of date problems. Once I heard about Radhika, my mind was made and here I am. Ritu-da said there would not be any problem, as we would probably complete the shoot in a single schedule.

What is the character all about?
Radhika is an ordinary Bengali housewife who has lived away from her home state for some time. She comes back to Kolkata after her husband Indranil goes missing, in search of her roots, in a manner of speaking. Indranil was an engineer by profession but chose to concentrate on poetry. The film is filled with lyricism and the romance of poetry. When Radhika returns to Kolkata, she gets introduced to Shekhar, a photographer. She also tries to discover some little-known things about her missing husband through his poems. SHAWB CHORITRO KALPONIK traces the journey of Radhika - the physical journey of coming home, the emotional journey of trying to discover her roots, the retrospective journey into her relationship with her husband, and the metaphorical journey of all these journeys put together.

Now that the shooting is over, how do you look back on the character and the film?
It was an extremely challenging role. It is my first film in Bengali, for one thing. Secondly, I have never played a character that comes even remotely close to Radhika's. Thirdly, the character is slightly older than what I am now. I have tried my best to mould myself to become Radhika in the best possible way I could. At the same time, there are some similarities between Radhika and me. Like Radhika, my roots are also in Kolkata. I went away to Mumbai like she went away from her hometown. Like Radhika, I have come back now, to rediscover my old self in my old city. Ritu-da chose me to do this role precisely because of these similarities between Radhika and myself. I do not think he would have asked me to do this film had these things not been there. The character demanded tremendous intensity.

How do you look back on the experience of working with the bigwigs of Tollywood like Prosenjit?
Wonderful! He was already the top star of Bengali cinema when I began my career in films. He is a brilliant actor and is such a perfect gentleman that he never allows you to feel uneasy when you are working with him. He plays my husband in the film. In fact, my comfort levels with everyone on the sets were very good. Working in Tollygunge has been a memorable experience. I had the opportunity of talking in Bangla all the time. I made friends with everyone, Jishu, who plays Shekhar, and the pretty Paoli Dam who I have motivated to stick to a fitness regime. Shooting was a lot of fun.

How was it working under the directorial baton that has fetched so many national awards for Indian actresses?
I must confess that I have not seen all his films. From the ones that I have seen, and while I worked with him, I discovered how much detailing he does for every single element in his film. I requested him to conceptualise my costume and he has done a remarkable job. His films explore the nuances of human relationships and he knows the characters like the back of his palm. He is able to explain what he expects of you in precise detail. He has a complete idea of how his characters will walk, talk, what they will wear, so that the emotions come across the way he has planned them. The poetry angle was another new experience for me.

Your forthcoming releases?
One is the Abbas-Mastaan thriller RACE that is a multi-starrer though I am paired with Saif. The other is Sudipto Chatterjee's PANKH, the first film under the (White Feather Films) Arthouse banner. I am also working in a Yashraj film opposite Ranbir Kapoor directed by Siddharth Anand. That's about it, I guess.

Are you and John planning to tie the knot this year?
Yes, we are. But then it would all depend on when and how we can make the time because we are very busy and marriage needs both time and space.

Sunil Shetty

2008-10-23T01:35:00.000-07:00

He is one of the most sought after actors in the industry today. Suniel Shetty, who started his career with action films, seems to have settled for comic roles. Ever since his performance in the Priyadarshan mega hit HERA PHERI, producers have been keen to make the most of his comic talent. Now, all set to woo the audiences with his next release ONE TWO THREE, Shaikh Jelani catches up with the maverick actor about his choice of films and more...

Q: You seem to be on a spree of doing comedy films, any particular reason for that?
A: Well, I guess audiences really love my comic act and that's why you can see me mostly in comic roles. Moreover, the fact that comedies turn out to be family entertainers further excites me to do such roles.

Q: Could you tell us more about your role in the film ONE TWO THREE?
A: I play a simple and sincere marketing executive in the film. My honesty becomes an irritating factor for my friends. It's a fun loving role and the fact that all the characters share the same name makes the film all the more funny.

Q: Will you be doing any action films in the coming time?
A: Actually, the fact is that I don't sign on new projects merely for the fact that they belong to a particular genre. For me, if any script sounds interesting, irrespective of the genre it belongs to, I will sign it without thinking twice. I did SHOOTOUT AT LOKHANDWALA, an out-an-out action film, because I loved the role that was given to me. But, yes the fact is that at the moment I'm enjoying comedy films since they are family entertainers.

Q: Your production house PopKorn Entertainment is getting active on the film production. What kind of films are you coming out with?
A: Well, PopKorn is surely getting aggressive on the production front and we have a three-film deal with Balaji Telefilms. At the moment one of these films MISSION ISTANBUL is in the production stage and we are planning to release it in the latter part of this year. Apart from that we are looking at newer tie ups and plans are in place to produce more films this year.

Q: Lastly, coming back to your films we heard that HERA PHERI 4 is also in the making. Could you tell us how it's going to be different from the earlier series?
A: Well, it can't really be that different. For sure it will be a laugh riot and we are all excited about the project.

Triumph

2008-10-23T01:33:00.001-07:00

How do you look back on the long and exciting innings you have played in this here today gone tomorrow industry?
Life could never be better. I am a completely contended man and actor. I have received more than I had ever expected. I can't find any reason to crib, cry, complain or regret. I am grateful to God for all that has happened to me in all these years. There are other actors who have had their share of ups and down but my career has gone steady right from the beginning. I have never had a lean or low phase in my career. It has been one long session of satisfaction for me.

What do you think is the secret of your survival in the face of relentless competition and the onslaughts of time?
It is very difficult to point out any particular reason. All I know is that I have been very truthful to myself both as a human being and an actor. I have been successful in creating a blend of both a sincere man and an actor and the blend seem to have worked. It is not just my case. You can take any actor who has lasted long in spite of all the competition and changes and you will find that they are where they are because of managing this blend. I also think there has been a lot of hard work done with all the passion possible that has helped me be what I am.

Did you come to make it as a villain?
No, I came to be an actor. I almost become a hero but that was not destined for me. I tried my best but ended up playing one of the leading villains. I am not saying that. It is the industry, the filmmaker and the people who have been kind enough to say such good things about a bad man like me.

Who were the directors who first recognized the wild streaks in a handsome man who had all the makings of a dashing hero?
I feel it is Mr. Manoj Kumar who played the most important part in making me a bad man. I had done some small role as the wicked man. But it was Manoj Kumar with whom I had worked in my early films who saw the villain in me. He gave me the first major break in his first film as a director, Upkaar. I took up the challenge and played the role he had created for me with my whole heart and the results were unbelievable. Something unique happened in Upkaar. Pran sahab who was playing the villain for several centuries turned a new leaf and played the better man than good man and I was born as bad man. Manoj Kumar cast me in all the film he directed and gave me a chance to prove myself as a bad man and I lived up to his expectations and the audience hearted me which was ironically the proof my popularity and success. There were other directors like Yash Chopra who gave me all the scope to grow as a bad man. Then there were all Hindi films made by directors from the south. All of them had a part to play in my growth as an actor, but when I look back I think it is Manoj Kumar who really showed me the way to reach there I have today.

Do you ever think there was an alternative and that you could have made it as hero?
I don't believe in looking back. I also believe that whatever has to happened will happen. It is the other forces and power that play their parts in your career and they are more powerful than you. There are times when you just have to keep changing with the times and that has always been my most important achievements, I feel. I have always moved and change with the demands of time. Time is most powerful force in the life of any man, an actor specially. I wanted to be a hero. I could be a hero but I ended up being the enemy of the hero, the thorn in his side. Things could have been different if everything had happened the way I wanted but everything doesn't happen like that. Life can be much less complicated if you accept the truth about life.

What according to you are the qualifications to be a good bad man?
I personally think after all my experience that it is much more difficult to play the bad man than playing the good man. The hero has just one straight line to follow. But the villain has a role which crosses all kind of complex lines. You have to be very close observer of life to be a good actor but you have to be a keen observer if you have to play believable human bad character. I have never lost touch with life and never will as long as I am an actor and if I have to bring life to the character I play.

Don't you think that a villain has to follow the same pattern of acting once he is accepted and typed as an actor?
It all depends on what kind of an actor you want to be. If you are happy playing the same kind of character and get type casted, then God bless you, but you have to make a mark you have to add that something from within you to the character. You must try and do some new experiments even while doing the same old thing. You can be what they want you to be all your life and you can try and have your own way. I have tried all the ways. That is the reason I think why I have survived so long. I would have perished and become the past a long time ago if had not pursued my career with the passion to do something new all the time. That is why I am good at being the typical Prem Chopra and I can also rise to face any challenge however difficult.

How many leading men have you played had with?
I have worked with almost all the leading men of the last three or four decades. I have worked with Dilip Kumar in ten films, Dev Anand in several films, with Raj Kapoor and Rajendra Kumar in some films and almost all the major films of Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan and above all Manoj Kumar. I have also worked with all the leading ladies in these decades. And I have still to find any one of them treating me as the bad man I play in their lives in films.

Have you faced any problems because of your work on screen?
None, thankfully. I have had a very normal life and I think it is mainly because I believe in keeping my career and my life far away from any kind of controversies.

What kind of roles are you playing these days?
I am very lucky. I still find some very important roles. They could be small films but my roles are very important. You will see them in time to time.

Why do you think we don't have the kind of villain we used to have in your times?
I think it is all because of the kind of subject that is being made today. Moreover it is very surprising to see some of the heroes play the bad man, which includes the great Amitabh Bachchan.

What is your advice to the young villains of today?
Who am I to advice them? I have always taken advice from people who I feel can be of help. I think if they work hard, sincerely and honestly they will never fail.

What is your greatest contribution to life?
I have helped in making the good triumph over evil which is always the need of the life. I have done it at great risk, sometimes even putting my reputation at stake. I think that is quit a contribution to life, don't you think so?

Ajay Devgan

2008-10-23T01:30:00.000-07:00

Known as a versatile actor Ajay Devgan is spinning out one hit comedy film after another and the recent one was Rohit Shetty's SUNDAY. Normally, Ajay is accused of avoiding the media, but we managed to have a discussion on whole lot of things. He was candid as well as casual during the conversation. Here are the excerpts.

Q: After having done the role of an honest police officer in GANGAAJAL Any special reason for accepting the role of corrupt cop in SUNDAY?
A: Actually, I was charmed by the story of the film. Can you imagine what will happen if 'Sunday' disappears from one's life? The story of this film is its specialty and here we don't have to make faces to make the audience laugh. I think that if one's intentions are right, everything is possible. And this is what I have done. (Laughingly) Frankly speaking, it is feeling great as I have done two different types of roles in these two films. Actually, GANGAAJAL is a very serious film, while SUNDAY is a comedy. The characterization of the police has not been taken too seriously in SUNDAY.

Q: You have excelled in action and serious roles and now in comedy. What do you have to say regarding this?
A: Look, in order to strike a balance with your career it is essential to do various kinds of roles. It is not necessary that all your films will run well, but to prove that you are a versatile actor, this is very important. This way you not only offer variety to your audience, but also test yourself as an actor. After all, an actor also needs job satisfaction.

Q: How much do you enjoy doing comedy roles?
A: According to me, making comedy and comedy happening are two different things. I enjoy doing comedy roles because this not only entertains the audience, but also the performers. And it is a known fact that comedy not only makes us laugh, but also makes us forget the stress and strains in life.

Q: These days you are the leading man in most of Rajkumar Santoshi's films ...
A: First of all let me make one thing very clear. I don't have any hang-ups working with anyone in this entire film industry and I work with anyone and everyone with whom I find myself free and relaxed. Unlike many, I do not belong to any camp and it is also not necessary that I will be in all the films of any particular director. And everyone in the industry is aware of this. What is happening is mere coincidence and I can tell you one thing and that is if a director finds a more competent actor than me for any particular role in his film, I would prefer to withdraw myself from the project.

Q: It is often said that you try to avoid the media ...
A: (Laughingly) No, there is no truth in this. I never avoid the media, but it is true that I am a bit lazy on this matter.

Q: Would you like to say something about your film U ME AUR HUM?
A: Well, this is my film and what can I say about it. I put the responsibility of talking about the film on you...

Q: What inspired you to make this film?
A: Just like that. The idea came to me all of a sudden and I decided to make a film of the topic to satisfy my dreams or wishes. Today very few people are aware of the fact that before becoming an actor, I have worked on all the aspects of filmmaking that remain behind the scene. Through this film, I am trying to revive my old memories.

Q: Why have you chosen Kajol for this film and not any other heroine?
A: I have not taken Kajol in the film, but it is she who has shown eagerness to work in the project. She liked the story very much and she proposed to act in the film. Fortunately, even today we are actors and not mere husband and wife before the camera.

Q: We are told that Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan are quite annoyed over the comments made against them in your film HALLA BOL. Would you like to comment on this?
A: Don't you think that all this is utter nonsense? After all, even I am an actor and who would like to make fun of himself. I don't feel that we have hurt anyone's sentiments through this film. But if we deliberately want to demean someone there are thousand and one ways for this.

Q: 'Nukkad natak' has been given a lot of prominence in HALLA BOL. What would you like to say on this?
A: Look, I have never watched a 'nukkad natak' nor do I know much on this. All that I know is that this is a very effective way to pass any message to the public and is widely utilized in northern India. As far as the film is concerned, 'nukkad natak' has not been used to stop any corruption, but to create awareness among the masses just like it was done in the Jessica Lall murder case.

Q: Do you sincerely believe that stardom can be used effectively to create awareness among the masses?
A: Certainly. But I also believe that if the media is helpful even the common man can make himself popular through the media. We have tried to convey this message through HALLA BOL.

Q: So, you feel that the media has become very strong?
A: Don't you also think so? Today the media is certainly very powerful and I want to give you an example. Today if you write something wrong or untrue about me only I and those close to me will know that this is a gossip. But more than 80 percent of the people will believe what you are right. And interestingly, if I need to clarify my stand, I will again have to seek the help of the media as I don't have any other alternative. It is only the media that has told the people that Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan are annoyed with me. The two actors never conveyed this to me. So I appeal to the media to realize their responsibilities and present the truth before the people.

Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming films.
A: My forthcoming films include Rohit Shetty's GOLMAAL RETURNS and Rajkumar Santoshi's ASHOKA - THE GREAT. Right now we are working on the story of ASHOKA. In addition, I had another film titled MR FRAUD, but this has got stuck owing to Sanjay Dutt. There are a number of other films, but they are in very preliminary stages and it would be too early to say anything about these.

Subhash Ghai

2008-10-23T01:28:00.001-07:00

The showman of tinsel town Subhash Ghai explains that the subjects of all his films are related to the society. According to the filmmaker, his current film BLACK AND WHITE will also represent another social issue.

What is BLACK AND WHITE all about?
BLACK AND WHITE is the story of love and hatred. While black represents hatred, white is for love. I have tried to show the shades of love and hatred between Hindus and Muslims based on the concept of these two colors.

Is it true that the story of the film has a backdrop of terrorism? There are many films based on the same subject. So, why make another film on this oft-repeated subject?
Well, you can say that terrorism forms the backdrop. As far as the question of many films having been made on the same subject is concerned, I can give you some examples. Aamir Khan recently made TAARE ZAMEEN PAR which is based on children. If anyone makes another film on children then would you say there's nothing new in that! As there are many subjects related to children there are many fields related to our society too. I just have tried to touch those issues through my film.

Do you think that the audiences will appreciate your approach?
I won't call it my approach, it's my thought. Whatever I have done is based on my thoughts and the acceptance of the thought is absolutely on the audience.

Don't you think it's yet another film based on the Hindu-Muslim issue?
It's not based on the Hindu-Muslim issue, but it's a sensitive movie with social issues. What is Hindustan? I think Hindustan is a rainbow comprising of all the colours.

It's a very tough job to make films on a small scale. How tough was it for you?
Yeah, it's very tough to make films on a small scale. But I faced very little problem in making this film. It's only because the subject of the film was very simple. Most of the shooting was done at the Chandni Chawk area in Delhi. Thus, the budget of the film was very low.

What's the reason behind keeping the directorial baton away from you for almost four years now?
(Smiling) Everyone is asking me the same question. What if I was not directing movies, I was busy in many other meaningful jobs. I started my institute 'Whistling Woods International' in those four years. Students are learning the nitty-gritties of the film making at the institute. That job is equal to making ten films together. But, yeah, I have fulfilled my dreams now. And I am back to filmmaking. I promise you I will make one film a year.

Now-a-days there are lots of changes in filmmaking. What would you like to say about this?
If our lives are changeable then why not films? Since our birth if we have changed a lot then what's wrong with changes in filmmaking? It's the result of this transformation that I am working as a filmmaker and you as a reporter.

You go for very versatile subjects in your films. How do you deal with them?
It's very easy for me. My daughter is five years old now and in the same house I have my father who is now 80. I talk to both of them and that too in their own ways. Films are also something like that.

Your film KARZ is now being remade by another director. What would you like to say about this?
I wish that all my films are remade. I think remaking my films means honoring my films. Twenty years down the line I would like to see someone remaking my film BLACK AND WHITE. I am happy that Shahrukh's OM SHANTI OM is last year's best commercially hit movie and the name of the movie is based on a song from my film.

Your last film BOMBAY TO BANGKOK didn't do well. What do you think is the reason behind that?
Look, it has always been my habit that I never watch any movie after it is released. And it is a fact that I have never seen any of my movies after their release. A director's work never gets lessened with a movie being a hit or a flop. When Naagesh came to me with the story of IQBAAL I readily accepted it and even allowed him to direct the movie. In the same way he worked hard for BOMBAY TO BANGKOK too. May be the audience didn't like it. But I cannot tell you the reason for the film not doing well in the market, as I didn't watch it.

Please tell us about your next film MEIN YUVRAAJ.
MEIN YUVRAAJ is a romantic film in which Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif and Zayed Khan will work together. I am still shooting for that film and I hope to complete it by the end of April. I expect to release the film on the occasion of Diwali so that people may enjoy it at the best.

Saroj Khan

2008-10-23T01:26:00.001-07:00

Dancing queen Saroj Khan, who is the new toast of small screen with her Bollywood dance tutorials on NDTV Imagine, shares her insights on the future of dance with Binita Ramchandani.
Nachle Ve with Saroj Khan set the ball rolling for newly launched NDTV Imagine. In this unique show, the industry's veteran choreographer teaches students to dance like famed Bollywood divas. Excerpts from a chat with the woman behind many a successful women of silver screen.

Q: What is you show on NDTV Imagine like?
A: The show is about a teacher who teaches dance to students absolutely free of cost. I found the concept quite good, as nowadays many people want to learn dance and so I thought, why not give them a platform. The show is a medium through which I will teach students dance by helping him or her identify the beat of the music - just as I teach on the sets. The best part is that there is no age bar, so whether young or old, everybody can dance with me.

Q: Do you plan to direct or act in a movie as you have done before?
A: No, I do not intend to take up direction or acting; I did that earlier just as a friendly gesture. I wish to stick to choreography and do as much for the industry as I can.

Q: Are you happy with the dance scenario in Bollywood?
A: Nowadays each and every song in a movie looks almost the same, mainly the item numbers. There is no specific movement, which is seen. But some years back this was not the case. Each song had its own unique steps; for example, take the Dhak Dhak song by Madhuri. The scenario has changed in the past 4-5 years.

Q: What do you think should be done to improve the existing scenario?
A: I feel that we should have different songs with different movements and steps. We have such a rich culture but we are just aping the west. We should stick to our roots and incorporate forms like folk, bhangra, etc in mainstream choreography.

Q: What's your take on reality shows?
A: I think reality shows have really made a lot of impact on the audience. Everyone wishes to be dancer and is learning dance. A reality show made housewife Tina (TV actor and anchor Hussain's wife) a dancer. I think it has helped her to grow as a dancer. I remember the blindfold dance of Nach Baliye 2, which is not an easy task even for the professionals, but despite being a non-dancer she did it. Therefore I am in favour of reality shows.

Q: What is the message that you wish to give to aspiring choreographers?
A: I just wish to tell them that they should come up with something new every time. Be creative in your steps. Don't use common dance steps. This is how one can create a unique style of dancing and also make their mark in the industry. Make use of our rich Indian culture in your choreography.

Q: What are your recent projects in hand and what do you plan for the future?
A: Shooting for the movie ALADDIN has just been completed; and now I wish to take my journey of dance ahead by coming up with an academy of my own.

An interview with Helen

2008-10-23T01:24:00.000-07:00

Helen is regarded as an all-time great as a dancer in Hindi films. She also evolved into a character artist, though selectively. She reminisces about her past years.

Meet Helen Richardson Khan, better known as Helen, the actress who changed the entire scenario of dance in Hindi cinema from the early 50s to the late 70s to emerge many years later as a character actress in few chosen films. From an item number, then known as a 'cabaret' dancer, Helen raised the standard of sizzling dance numbers performed in nightclubs or as the repentant vamp in many Hindi films. She transformed this dance into an art and gave it a definite and respectable identity because, despite those scintillating gyrations in skimpy costumes, Helen exuded extreme sensuality and sex appeal without appearing either vulgar or obscene. She remained the queen of the cabaret in cinema for two decades. Neither Kareena Kapoor, who duplicated her famous 'Yeh mera dil' in THE DON RETURNS, nor Urmila Matondkar, who did ditto with the 'Mehbooba mehbooba' number in RGV's AAG, could hold a candle to the original Helen numbers in DON and SHOLAY. Today, the hourglass figure has put on pounds and those beautiful eyes are veiled in gold-rimmed spectacles. Helen presents a picture of grace, dignity and humility. In Kolkata for a couple of days in response to an invitation to judge a dance contest, Helen agreed to trace her footsteps back in time, smiling away, at times, happily, and at times, rather shyly when asked about her gutsy and sleazy dance numbers. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: Let us hear it from the beginning.
A: I was born in Burma, now Myanmar, to a Burmese mother and Anglo-Indian father. My mother was a nurse and when we migrated to Mumbai, we discovered that it was difficult to maintain the family on her earnings alone. The famous dancing star Cuckoo was a family friend. She introduced me as a dancer in the chorus in SHABISTA in 1951. After being a chorus girl in many films, I finally landed solo dance numbers in ALIF LAILA (1953) and HOOR-E-ARAB (1955.) But the turning point came with the 'Mera naam chin chin choo' number in Shakti Samanta's HOWRAH BRIDGE in 1958. O P Nayyar's brilliant music gave the song the zing that it demanded. Actually, I had to quit school to work in films.

Q: What is your take on the current girls who perform item numbers on screen?
A: Today's young girls are doing a brilliant job not only as actresses but also as dancers. Aishwarya and Karishma are talented actresses who also are brilliant dancers. Madhuri Dixit was equally good in dance numbers. I can't dance like them anymore. I have no problems with item numbers because it is necessary for everyone in the entertainment industry to keep pace with time. But Vyjayantimala remains my all-time favourite and I don't think anyone can come anywhere close to her as a dancer. I also have great admiration for the late Ragini of the Travacore sisters Lalitha, Padmini and Ragini.

Q: Has the scenario of the film cabaret changed from your time?
A: Of course, it has changed tremendously. In my days, it was okay if the leading lady had two left feet and couldn't dance to save her life. It's no longer the same. The leading lady must be a very good dancer even before she makes her debut in films. They must be well trained in all styles of dance. So, you find that today's top actresses are also very good dancers. However, we no longer have films totally dedicated to dance the way they used to be in my time. Filmmakers would be the best ones to say why it's not happening anymore but it's a fact. Films like CHA CHA CHA and JHANAK JHANAK PAYAL BAJE revolved solely around dance. Besides, leading ladies who were also dancers were extremely proficient in classical styles. Vyjayantimala and Padmini were dancers in their own right. The trend towards Western dance styles didn't exist. Then times changed and dances were influenced by Western styles.

Q: When did you learn to dance?
A: I initially trained in the Manipuri style. Then I learnt Bharat Natyam from my guru P L Raj, one of the leading choreographers of the time. Kathak followed this. But you can say that I am the one who introduced the cabaret and the belly dance in Indian films. I often had to dance with strikingly unusual props. For instance, in the Merchant-Ivory film BOMBAY TALKIE, I had to dance on the keys of a gigantic typewriter. Wigs, feathers, fluttering false eyelashes, plumes, gold paint, and everything you can think of formed part of my film wardrobe. For many years, I would wear a body stocking under the skimpy costumes. Before HOWRAH BRIDGE, I danced to the famous number Mr. John, e Baba Khan, in BAARISH starring Nutan and Dev Anand. That made a splash and the next year, I did 'Mera naam chin chin choo'. I did perform semi-classical numbers but rarely as I did in GUNGA-JUMNA and ZINDAGI.

Q: How do you look back to the past?
A: I don't. I live only in the present. That's why when people ask me whether I liked Kareena perform 'Yeh mera dil' in THE DON RETURNS, I always tell them that she has done a wonderful job. I have completely forgotten my own performance in DON. So, for me it's as if I am seeing the performance for the first time. I am now leading a life of semi-retirement with my husband Salim who was by my side in my most difficult days. I am thrilled with the success of my stepchildren Salman, Arbaaz and Sohail Khan and their families along with Salim's first wife. We have also adopted a daughter, Arpita.

Q: How did you gravitate to character roles?
A: They just happened. It was not a conscious decision at all. I played a character role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's KHAMOSHI and offers began to follow. Followed MOHABBATEIN in which I played the prim and proper headmistress of a girls' school but who is suddenly pulled in to dance she surprised everyone with her performance. I played Vinod Khanna's wife in LAHU KE DO RANG in 1979 and the role fetched me a Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress. The following year, I played Zeenat Aman's mother in RAM BALRAM but my first character role that didn't demand dancing from me was in HUM HINDUSTANI which had Asha Parekh and Sunil Dutt in the lead in the mid-60s. But the film flopped and my career as an actress never took off. I also did MARIGOLD last year apart from HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM where I played a significant role as Salman's mother some years ago.

Q: There have been books written on you and even a documentary by Merchant-Ivory productions. How do you react to these tributes?
A: I feel deeply honoured, is all I can say. Yes, Jerry Pinto authored Helen- the Life and Times of an H-Bomb, published by Penguin a couple of years ago. In 1973, Merchant-Ivory productions made Helen - Queen of Nautch Girls, a 30-minute documentary on my career as a dancer. Some years back, Eisha Marjara, made a feature film making generous references to my influence on her childhood and adolescence. The Lifetime Achievement Award from Filmfare in 1998 is my greatest pride.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

2008-10-23T01:21:00.000-07:00

The supremely beautiful Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will now be seen as the queen of Hindustan Jodhaa Bai in Ashutosh Gowarikar's much awaited film JODHAA-AKBAR due for release soon. Not only Aishwarya, but her fans and movie goers across India are waiting with bated breaths to see how the lady fares in her first film after her marriage to Abhishek Bachchan. The entire industry too is waiting eagerly.

During an exclusive tête-à-tête the glamour girl of Bollywood talked about her experiences while shooting for JODHAA-AKBAR, her life and more. Here are the excerpts.

Q: Thus far, people have only read about Jodhaa Bai in the history books and learnt about her fascinating character. This is the first time that a film has been made on the famous Mogul Empress and you are portraying her character. Are you convinced that you have done justice to the role?
A: Well, I will not claim that I have done justice to Jodhaa Bai's character, but I am sure that I have done justice to the character of Jodhaa Bai as etched out by Ashutosh. I must say that it is a special quality in me that I always try and do justice to all the characters I play. Earlier too, I have portrayed a number of characters about whom people and I have only read in books. But, while portraying these characters I have always given importance to what my director wants to depict on the celluloid and I have done full justice every time. I have never tried to interpret the characters apart from the director's point of view.

Q: This is the first film being released after your marriage. So, what do you expect the audience response to be?
A: It's an interesting issue. Shooting of the film began before my marriage, took place during my marriage and continued afterwards too. As far as I am concerned, JODHAA AKBAR includes all the aspects and time of my life that are closely related to my marriage. However, it is true that this will be my first film to be released after marriage and hence it is of great importance to me.

Q: What was your experience dressing up and putting on make-up to portray Jodhaa Bai on screen?
A: In fact, people as well as the media have asked me time and again as to why I take so much time for make-up. I want to tell them that they should try and understand the pressure on us. Even before the actual job of acting begins, artistes have to spend hours sitting quietly while the make-up is done. Although this in itself requires a lot of patience and endurance, no one realizes this as it is all behind the camera. To be precise, make-up is not only necessary to make one look more beautiful, but also important for the toning of the skin and face muscles. Abhishek is aware of this and hence he regards me for this quality of mine.

Q: We have heard that you had to wear a lot of heavy ornaments for the film and this often troubled you. Tell us something on this.
A: Yes, people have asked me this question time and again. But this time I really had to wear a lot of heavy ornaments and clothes as I was portraying an empress of the Mughal dynasty. It required all these stuff. Anyways, hats off to all these women from the royal families who would get up early in the morning and adorn themselves with such heavy ornaments and clothes day after day.

Q: Well, did you need to take on any extra work load to portray the character of Jodhaa Bai in the film?
A: Not exactly. In fact, Ashutosh had narrated the character so brilliantly to me that there was no need for any extra work or preparation. Besides, this is not a character like in DHOOM-2 which required me to make rounds of the gym to tone up my body. I am happy that Ashutosh did not cover me up with ornaments only to make me appear like Jodhaa Bai. Instead he gave me ample scope to present my acting talents and this was a role very much different from Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Q: In order portray Jodhaa Bai efficiently on screen you must have had to read a lot. So, which aspects of the Mughal Empress did impress you the most?
A: The benefit of working with a director like Ashutosh is that I gained a lot from his research on as well as passion for Jodhaa Bai's character. He had done so much research on the character that we did not feel the need to go to any library to read books on the Mughal Empress or do any individual research. He had outlined the character so beautifully that I had to only do my bit to bring those aspects to life. Actually, in such cases, more than any research, it is important to fulfill your director's views and aspirations.

During an exclusive tête-à-tête the glamour girl of Bollywood talked about her experiences while shooting for JODHAA-AKBAR, her life and more. Here are the excerpts.

Akshay Kumar

2008-10-23T01:19:00.000-07:00

Akshay Kumar is at the top and no questions asked. He has reportedly signed a three-film contract with a company for the heart-stopping figure of Rs. 41 crores. His looks are smashing, he is versatile to slip into action, suspense, comedy, drama, thrills, the works like no actor among his peers can. And that is a fact. But what clinches his stakes in this competitive market is the economic viability of his films. He has been delivering thumping hits without a break with producers and financiers laughing all the way to the bank. In this rat-race where no one spares even Shahrukh Khan for a flop, Akshay Kumar has performed a hat-trick of hits in a continuous series - NAMASTEY LONDON, HEYY BABYY and BHOOL BHULAIYAN. His film WELCOME has just released and is still counting the gate money... Shoma A Chatterji pins him down for a conversation

Are you happy with the string of successes over the past two years?
Absolutely. It is always great to know that the audience has put both its money and its faith on a film I have chosen to work in. As I have never wearied of repeating - hits and misses always matter and a good Friday keeps the home fires going.

Tell us something about your new film MADE IN CHINA, directed by Nikhil Advani.
It marks the Hindi film debut of Warner Bros and that is exciting enough for me. In the film, my role is that of a lowly Mumbai cook who is mistaken for a martial arts hero - close to my life story because I began as a cook in Bangkok and became a martial arts expert. I have Deepika Padukone opposite me. The film will give me a platform to showcase my expertise in Parkour - a physical activity that focuses on efficient movement of the body in getting across obstacles in one's path. I first did this in a Thums Up ad last year. I am really excited about action flicks because I have returned to action after a long time.

But you had almost given up action, hadn't you?
That's right. But that is mainly because people thought I could do only action till I did YEH DILLAGI and DHADKAN with dramatic roles followed by a comedy like HERA PHERI. It is like reinventing yourself each time. That is precisely what the audience is looking for. It wants you to keep offering interesting and varied stuff, which can only happen with a bit of planning and a lot of hard work. I want to be someone to look up to and make oneself believe that - if he can do it, so can I.

Did it ever occur to you to become a sportsman?
To be very frank, not really. I grew up in a large family in Delhi's Chandni Chowk and though I excelled in sports in school, I always wanted to be an actor. I am lucky to have been able to convert some of my dreams to reality. It was difficult. After doing my stint in Bangkok, I did several things before getting a break as a model. My first film SAUGANDH (1991) failed miserably. But I did not have to wait very long because the very next year, KHILADI was a big hit and set the chain of Khiladi films one after another.

Your portfolio is spilling over with some exciting films lined up this year.
I recently completed a grueling schedule with Saif Ali Khan for Yashraj Films' TASHAN. We then flew away to the Australian Gold Coast to shoot for Vipul Shah's home production SINGH IS KING being directed by Anees Bazmee. This month, we are about to begin the shoot for MADE IN CHINA. Then there is Sajid Nadiadwala's KAMBAKHT ISHQ, Nagesh Kukunoor's EIGHT BY TEN, Feroz Nadiadwala's INTERNATIONAL HERA PHERI with Priyadarshan, one David Dhawan film and one more Yashraj film directed by Shaad Ali.

They say you have been insisting on casting Katrina Kaif with every film. Is this true?
This is news to me. I am more amused than angry. How then do you explain the fact that almost all my under-production films do not feature Katrina at all? I am working with different actresses in these films. So, how these rumours have got to you God alone knows. Just because we happened to act together in several films and all of them were hits, does not mean that I will become insecure about acting with other actresses.

When and how do you ever relax if at all you do?
I love spending time with my family. Twinkle and I have a very good comfort level as she has worked in the industry as well. So we understand each other well. I began to understand what fatherhood is all about only after Aarav was born. I also work out in my Parkour gym. That gives me the time and space to introspect, reflect on how it is going, what needs to be done and what needs to be changed. I keep out of discussions that debate on whether I am counted with other superstars and all that stuff. It takes you away from focusing on more necessary things like finding out ways that will not bore my audience.

Aamir Khan

2008-10-23T01:17:00.001-07:00

Delivering good output is Mr. Perfectionist's (Aamir Khan) habit. Actor-Singer-Producer-and now a Director, seriously this level-headed person has left no arena untouched. His contribution towards Indian cinema not only changed the scenario of films and filmmaking but also unfastened the locked doors to enter Oscars and constant effort to showcase the Indian films to compete the international market of films. With his directorial debut, TAARE ZAMEEN PAR, Aamir has again proved he is maestro of Cinema; his perfection gets extended to direction also. In conversation with all-rounder Aamir khan:

TZP is your first film as a director; tell us how was the overall experience?

The overall experience was good. I enjoyed directing as much as I enjoyed acting. For me work should be enjoying and that keeps me going.

Were you scared whether the film will fetch you the equal amount of appreciation as your earlier films did?
Yes, I was nervous, like any other new director. You are always surrounded by the anxiety about the kind of response that will be fetched. Appreciation is always acceptable and welcomed with open arms but as a producer I see that my films also have to do economically well.

Are you a result-oriented person?
For me process is more important, joyful. I like to have my entire concentration on the process right from step 1. It gives me pleasure.

Are you planning to continue with direction?
Yes obviously, I'll continue with direction. Ideally if I am directing I won't get into acting. I concentrate to put my efforts on one task at a time, I am not a man of multitasking, I enjoy the way I work and follow each step carefully after my past.

TZP is simple without any big element to go ahead and market with (apart from you)
Yes, it's a very simple film with a simple cast. When I choose any particular film, I look from audience point of view, I observe a lot, what makes them happy or cry or rejoice, their reactions to situations. I rather look on the practical aspect of movie to promote; my ability to clearly communicate with audience in a story format is my strength.

You are considered a trendsetter, a visionary, changing scenario of Indian cinema, how do you manage to do different things every time? Also what do want say about current trend of cinema in Bollywood?
See, I don't do different things; I try to do it in a different manner. I think every person should follow his/her dream and try and make it possible to create an ability to achieve it backed by its practicality. I think, what has really changed is the audience. They want to see different kind of films. They want variety. Today's audience have matured and are practical, they don't want the same old stuff to be played, that's why films with unusual subject, films with some freshness are being hugely appreciated and accepted.

You are always in news for maintaining different looks for your movies, what is the next new look in your upcoming movies?
You'll see a bald man in my new film (laughs), the title of the film (remake of Tamil film Gajni) is yet to be finalized.

How's the overall response for TZP? In Gujarat? Within industry?
The response has really turned out really good. I am overwhelmed by the kind of response I am getting from my fans and the audience in general. The response that I have got for my very first directorial film is like a dream response. It's been appreciated by all ages; from teenagers to youth to parents to oldies to teachers. Well, I was confident about this subject, but was not expecting such a mass response. Within industry almost everyone esteemed and acclaimed my work David Dhawan, Ashutosh Gowariker, Rakesh Roshan and many others prized my efforts through their appreciation.

If not actor what you would love to have been?
If not actor then I would have loved to be a sportsperson, I was a topper in lawn tennis at state level (played for Maharashtra) and I also love teaching, I would love to have a film school with small number of students who wants to know everything about filmmaking.

Sequel to SARFAROSH

Yes, I am interested to make a sequel of SARFAROSH as the characters are very much there to get utilized (strong characters). John Mathew Mathan (director of SARFAROSH) is also thinking on the same. We might come out with its sequel, but no fixed plans as yet.

Mahesh Bhatt

2008-10-23T01:15:00.001-07:00

The Bhatt land manages to be in the news every now n then through their bold, courageous films, films dealing with an unusual engagement with the psychological damage arising from infringement of social norms, situations which are characteristic deep mental/emotion damage and trauma, stories influenced from real life situations, characters, heart touching (heartfelt) subjects. Their genre of movies have always been unique, out of the box, they are the pioneers to showcase luculent stories, characters, serious films demanding strong performances, that created a niche audience. Thrills, sex, romance, social issues, complex relationships are the ingredients of their movies, which are dealt in sublime manner. Their movie traces and excavates the root cause of any issue, relationships, and trauma and surmounts a gallant approach in a fantabulous manner. They are not fussy in expressing their ideas. And the same will be witnessed in the upcoming flick SHOWBIZ.

In conversation with Mahesh Bhatt

1) Is the story of SHOWBIZ inspired by any specific reality show?
A No, not in particular. Ya but it is definitely inspired by the current trend on television industry of reality shows. Our film is not just confined to reality shows; reality show is just a medium to showcase the true picture of today's media (the paparazzi segment of journalism). SHOWBIZ highlights the negative side of fame. Fame is not always sugary, we have tried to show the other (dark) side of fame and Roses always come with thorns.

2) Why a subject on yellow journalism? Are you angry with media?
A- we are not angry with media. We are here to make films and create new types of villains hidden in the society (hidden behind the curtains and who play all the dirty games). We are not against media. There are good and bad aspects in media, good people and bad people in media, we have just tried to convey how paparazzi are growing fast in this industry. It tries to convey that once you become a star how that star becomes a commodity for media. JOB OF A REPORTER IS TO REPORT AND NOT CREATE FALSE STORIES.

3) Raju khan, director of SHOWBIZ, is a choreographer-turned-director, what do you have to say about Raju as a director?
A- Yes, he's talented and a good person too. He solely handled and headed the creative aspect of the film. Our assistance was always there whenever he required.

4) We also heard that there were some issues between Mukesh Bhatt and director Raju Khan? Is that resolved?
A- Yes, you are right. There were issues between Mukesh and Raju. I even tried to resolve but couldn't. We all work as a family, treat everyone as our family and which family doesn't have disputes and misunderstandings, since we are part of media we get exposed.

5) You always give chance to newcomers. Why the Bhatts refrain from taking established ones? When will existing stars get opportunity to work with Bhatt's?
A- we are not restricting ourselves to cast established ones, if the script requires casting the existing ones, we'll definitely cast them. Creating and establishing new people is far more enjoying these days. It is fun to work with new entrants, groom, train and establish them.

6) You also sent Tushar and Mrinalini to acting worshops?
A- yes, Tushar and Mrinalini attended 3 months acting worskshop at Anupam Khers acting institute, which we paid for (laughs). I think every actor before getting into acting (or before starting) should get a hang on film culture. Even Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan assisted before entering into acting, this builds up their camera confidence, judgment in facing camera, the technical know-how. In short it gives a practical exposure towards acting.

7) Forthcoming films
A- Pooja is coming up with new movie which is under production KAJRARA RE. I am writing for the film, this will be shot in Morocco and Pakistan. Another film, which is coming up is JANNAT starring Imran Hashmi for which announcements will be made in January. The story deals with the betting world of cricket.

Amrita Rao

2008-10-23T01:11:00.001-07:00

She represents one of the most earthly faces in Bollywood. Known for her sensitive portrayals, Amrita Rao has one of the sought after actresses in town. Of late she has created ripples for being the person behind the much talked about Shahid-Kareena breakup. Basking in the glory of her latest Telegu hit ATHIDI opposite southern super star Mohan Babu, Rao speaks to Ruhail Amin about her life and career.

ATHIDI is doing very well?
Yes it's a very good feeling that this romantic comedy has become a super duper hit in Andhra Pradesh. It has grossed more then six and a half crores. We all had worked very hard on this film. When your effort is rewarded like this, it obviously feels great.

Your name is being dragged in the Shahid-Kareena break up?
I would not want to comment on a thing as stupid as this. In fact, I am very close to Kareena and she praised my performance in VIVAAH. Even Shahid and I share a great rapport despite what people write about us.

But will this affect your friendship with Shahid?
No we both are part of this industry and very well know that links ups go with this profession. Shahid has been really sweet and called me for the premier of JAB WE MET.

You mostly play girl next door roles, besides this, what would you want to experiment with?
I want to play a psychotic killer. Out and out action flicks will also be interesting. It would really be nice, if producer made films in which the girl next door was shown to be sexy, hot and intelligent.

Have we not seen many such common girls, who have gone on to become big names in various fields?
You are very careful in choosing scripts, no vulgarity for you?
Yes I can never do a role in which I am not comfortable. But if you give another item number like DEEWAR, I am game for it. In fact 'Marhaba' was beautifully picturized, I believe there is a very thin but distinct line between being sensuous and crass.

None of your characters have been overboard and wild?
I always like to play characters which people can easily identity with. Hence Poonam in VIVAAH, Sanjana Bakshi in MAIN HOON NA and Payal in ISHQ VISH. All these portrayals came across as warm and sweet girls.

Coming to VIVAAH, you have called it your best film till date?
Yes, it was very tough to play that character, since she hardly ever spoke. So, I had to express all the emotions through my eyes mostly. It was pretty straining, but fulfilling as an actress.

But Vivah has been panned by the critics as being too sweet?
For all the critics, my simple answer is that the film is based on a real life incident, which took place just a few years ago. Honestly even I was not sure of the validity of the idea but Suraj ji was confident about the concept and he proved right in the end.

You are also doing a film with Shyam Benegal. How's it working with him?
Shyam Benegal is one of the most sensible filmmakers of this era and the best part is that he does not get driven by the commercial formula but always attempts to address relevant social concerns through his cinema. It's a matter of great honour for me to be playing part in his upcoming film.

Among the male stars you have worked with, who are you comfortable with on screen?
Well actually all. If you act with a very good actor he automatically brings out the best in you as well. SRK in MAIN HOON NA was great to work with. Even Shahid and I always share great screen chemistry. I'm sure the audiences love to see us together.

What new films are you planning?
I have two films slated for release. First is Anil Kapoor's home production SHORT CUT, with Akshaye Khanna and Arshad Warsi in which I have an out and out glamourous role. We had a great time doing this film. Next is E Niwas's MY NAME IS ANTHONY GONSALVES, which will hit the marquee around January.

Any messages to your fans on Diwali?
Well I wish them a very happy and safe Diwali and hope they keep watching lot of movies in the festive season.

Arjun Rampal

2008-10-23T01:08:00.001-07:00

He is one of those few models who have actually made it big in Bollywood (minus any proverbial Godfather), thus breaking the jinx that models can't act. He is what hard work is all about. We are indeed talking about none other than Arjun Rampal, the hunky man who debuted with Pyaar, Ishq Aur Mohabbat and who is all set to give the baddies a run for their money with his new-look in the much anticipated blockbuster Om Shanti Om. .

Rampal spoke exclusively to IndiaFM on how life has come a full circle, what it means to work with Shah Rukh Khan again and what he is doing next. Over to the Hot Dude who breaks hearts every time he flashes that crooked smile. Relish.

To begin with Arjun, tell us how did OSO happen?
I had gone to the New Year's party at Shah Rukh's place. That's when Farah and Shah Rukh told me that I was going to be part of Om Shanti Om. The next day Farah came and narrated the story to me, which I thought was fantastic, and we all started shooting.

Give us an insight into the producer 'Mukesh Mehra', your character in the movie?
Basically, Mukesh is a very dark character and the reason why I agreed to play this role was that there is no justification to him.

One can play full on negative character without any qualms. And Mukesh happens to be a very important character in the whole film, someone who should be simply 'experienced' totally in the film. Actually, I think I shouldn't say much about him. It's a very unique role that I have done till now. And yes, there are things which Mukesh Mehra does, which have never been done by anybody on Indian screen.

Was it a conscious decision to play a villain?
It was not conscious. I think it's something that comes long your way. I think it's very rare that an actor, at such an early occasion in his career, gets to play character that's going to start at the age of 30 and end up age of 65, which is that's quite amazing, because you don't get to do those things. And to do in such a big commercial film, in which you going to have a large viewing, I'm really very thankful to Shah Rukh and Farah that they thought of me.

How difficult / easy was it to play 'Mukesh Mehra', considering the fact that you have earlier also played 'Shekhar Varma', a villain in Ek Ajnabee.
It was very difficult actually because there is nothing cool, charming or nice about Mukesh Mehra. So, you really had to work on different expressions and get into believing that how this person would think, and how he behaves. I got lot of help from Farah and Shah Rukh; they rehearsed a lot. Mukesh Mehra is not like typical villain of the 70's. He is a very new villain, a villain of today's time, which is very real at the same time. The character of Mukesh Mehra really stands out in the film.

Did a lot of homework go in conceptualizing the look of your character in OSO?
Farah was very clear about how she wanted me to look. The moustache was really thanks to Shah Rukh, because he asked me whether I had ever worn a moustache in any of my film. And when I replied in negative, we started trying a few moustaches on me, till we found the right one. I personally feel that the more and more you start shooting for the film, more and more one gets into the character. The moment I got into the costume, Mukesh Mehra simply used to come alive!

You have done quite a bit of films with SRK (Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Don,and now OSO). How's your rapport with SRK?
Shah Rukh is a great guy, a wonderful person and a great human being cum good friend. My rapport with him started with the world tour that we did together. After that, we hardly had any work together in KANK, but then we did Don together, where we spend lot of time together. And now OSO, which also happens to be his home production, where we spent a lot of time. SRK really helped me through with this character of Mukesh Mehra. I think what's good about Shah Rukh is the fact that when he works on any project, he doesn't look at it with an individualistic approach; he looks at the project in totality. SRK has lots of energy which is extremely contiguous.

Besides SRK, you also have done quite a bit of films with the legendary Amitabh Bachhan. (Ek Ajnabee, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, and now, The Last Lear). How is your rapport with him?
I think any actor who you work with; you have to have good rapport off screen, for it to be a good chemistry on screen. Even with Amitji, I share very good screen space and very good chemistry on screen. And it is special and lot of fun when we both act together. I think it should happen with any other actor that you work with, because it is really important for everybody to be friends in order to give 150% to the film because, then, the scene looks much more natural.

You have worked with two directors of different genres, of which one is Rituparno Gosh, a hardcore realistic film maker and Farah Khan, a hardcore commercial director. How was your experience working with both of them?
It was very amazing experience to play the role in The Last Lear because when I was working with Rituparna Ghosh, I found that here is a person who is very different and very realistic, and very subtle in terms of performances and other aspects. And on the other hand there was Farah who possesses high energy and makes films that are larger than life film and extremely entertaining movies. It was wonderful and I felt very comfortable to be part of both these films. I think that when you feel comfortable in such different kinds of cinema, you suddenly realize that's it wrong to actually differentiate between cinemas.

Tell us something about your upcoming films.
There is Popcorn entertainment's film called EMI which is coming up with that's with Sanjay Dutt. Then, then there is a film I'm doing for an untitled film for Farhan Akhtar's home production, for which I should start shooting from January.

There's a lot more to Arjun Rampal than its meets the eye, like charity etc something that not many people know about.
There is a cause that I support called 'Project Crayons'. They, basically take up girls who are street children and give them education and shelter. These kids are very bright and are doing extremely well in their studies, and we are going to do lot more for them. We care planning to do a few charity events in the near future for 'Project Crayons'.

Arjun, you are also a photographer par excellence, as certified by none other than Rituparno Ghosh himself. Have you ever taken up classes on the same?
Well, I always have been into photography and I loved photography for a long time now, say, for almost over 15-16 years. But I actually I started taking my pictures just about 3-4 years ago. And I really started enjoying shooting pictures, but they should be different pictures. In the sense, I don't like pose pictures, I like pictures which are shot in a moment. And, I haven't undergone any training in photography.

You are turning a producer in a big way with at least three films. Can you tell us something about that?
I won't talk about it right now. I'm here to talk about OSO and I'm very excited about it. I will definitely talk about these films, only when the time is right, maybe after OSO's release.

You stepped into films from modelling. Why is it that you never encouraged Meher to follow suit?
Well, I don't think she wanted to get into films. And I totally respect this decision of hers. Come to think of it, I don't think that Meher ever wanted to get into films.

Lastly, Arjun, your Diwali message to our readers
I just want say Happy Diwali and hopefully we can bring little bit brightness to this Diwali through our film.

Shahid Kapoor

2008-10-23T01:04:00.000-07:00

He made a splash with his debut film Ishq Vishk, and the impact of this splash was soooo huge and magnanimous, that his fans started calling him 'Sha-Hit' Kapoor. We are indeed talking about the 'baby-faced mature' hero whom we better know as Shahid Kapoor, the son of the legendary actor par excellence Pankaj Kapoor. Shahids may forget to wear his cap or any other accessories, but he never forgets to wear his trademark smile, something that makes his fans simply go Fida over him. His fans from all over are unanimously and eagerly awaiting his latest movie Jab We Met, a film that is carrying oodles of good news, even before its release. And the good news is that, you can get up close and personal with the man himself, exclusively on IndiaFM, as we bring to you the man Shahid, live in flesh.

Please tell us something about the film
Jab We Met is very contemporary film. It's about two strangers, completely opposite each other in terms of temperament, behavior and how they are thrown towards each other in different situations that take them to various places! It is a beautiful story about life, travel, very young and fresh and a magical journey of two extremely different people who meet while traveling and how their life unfolds.

How different is your role in this film?
I play the role of Aditya, a rich industrialist, who is a broken man. He is depressed and life has become a burden for him so he is running away from everything, wanting to be alone. He then meets Geet aka Kareena Kapoor who is a complete chatterbox, talking all the time, full of life and excitement, totally in contrast to the emotions he's going through.

My role is completely different as I'm seen portraying subdued emotions, working in a corporate atmosphere, so you can say it's quite a unique role for me!

What made you choose this film?
Basically, the script really appealed to me. And this is the first time Kareena and me are doing a complete romantic love story. It's a film about today and being 26 years old myself I think this film is quite relatable in its context. The situations, dialogues etc are quite contemporary and realistic.

Any memorable experiences while shooting for the film
Oh there are so many! Once during the shoot my dad Pankaj Kapoor came to meet me in Khandala and thanks to that I became so nervous I just couldn't do my scenes! Then I had to ask him to go away for some time saying I would meet him later.

We traveled to so many places in India, exotic far off places that each place had its own memories attached.

What do you feel is the USP of Jab We Met
The USP is that Jab We Met is a story of today's times. We all have traveled to different places sometime in life and the unique factor of Jab We Met is that it shows a magical and romantic journey of two diametrically opposite people, which can happen to anyone!

Your comments on the music of the film
Oh I think Pritam has done a fantastic job with the music of the film. It's very fresh and songs like 'Mauja Mauja' and 'Yeh Ishq Hai' are topping the charts as well. People really like the album all over India and abroad. It's very important for the music to co-relate and enhance the film's situations and I think Pritam has done that.

Jab We Met took to many different parts of India. How was the experience?
Yeah being a travel film, I think we took the theme quite literally! We visited places all over India such as Nabha, Punjab, Manali, Rajasthan, Mandava, Rohtang Pass, Khandala, Bhatinda and so many others. From sub-zero temperature places like Rohtang Pass to extremely hot places like Rajasthan each place was a fabulous experience.

Any favorite place you like to travel to?
I like visiting places like Goa, places in Europe, London and also Dubai is a great place

How was the experience working with Imtiaz Ali?
Oh it was a great experience. Imtiaz is a guy who is very clear and focused on what he wants, very relaxed and quite chilled out as well. He has no airs about himself or his film and it was easy as we were on the same wavelengths throughout.

The actor who inspires you the most in Bollywood.
I am a big big fan of Aamir Khan. The way he conducts himself in life and work really inspires me and I really hope one day I can achieve even half of what he has achieved! He is one of the best we have today.

Shreyas Talpade

2008-10-23T01:03:00.001-07:00

Ruhail Amin, TWF, Bollywood Trade News NetworkSince his Bollywood debut with Nagesh Kukunoor's IQBAL, Shreyas Talpade has not looked back. Now he would be seen with Shah Rukh Khan in the upcoming mega release OM SHANTI OM. Ruhail Amin in conversation with the actor who started his career with Marathi theatre and films.

How has your experience of the commercial Bollywood cinema been since you started with regional films?
Well, it has been my dream for long to do Bollywood films and the best part is that it offers you a wide choice in terms of characterization and themes. Finally, it was IQBAL that gave me the much needed break which also was a theme that gained huge popularity with the audiences. When I look back, I feel the journey has been really great so far.

It's said that you were active on the Marathi theatre front for a long time? Could you tell us more about that?
I did Marathi theatre for more than five years and later went to do Marathi television and films. When I was in college I was an active member of the theatre group there. I believe I have learnt a lot about acting by being associated with theatre.

You have played a range of portrayals in your films so far. Which has been the most challenging role so far?
Well, if you talk about challenging roles, I believe my first film IQBAL was definitely a challenging portrayal since the character demanded a completely different approach. Thanks to my director Nagesh Kukunoor, who made the shoot seems effortless and the most exciting till date. As an actor I always want to try new characters since they give you an opportunity to enact a range of emotions, which in real is every actor's dream.

Apart from serious roles, you have also acted in comedy films. Which genre would you consider your forte as an actor?
I believe for an actor the genre is not the limiting factor. I would never say that I am good at doing comedy films or serious roles only. As I already pointed out, I love to play a range of roles without getting tagged for a particular genre and all roles are equally fascinating for me.

Could you tell us about working with SRK. How was the experience?
I had a great time shooting for Farah Khan's OM SHANTI OM. Working with SRK was a great learning experience. We shared some of the best moments together shooting for the film.

What about your film BOMBAY TO BANGKOK? What kind of a role do you play in it?
It's again something which is close to my heart. The film has comic shades and I would not like to detail my role before the film is released, which is going to be very soon.

We heard you have a keen interest in photography? Is that a fact?
Yeah, I love taking pictures and that's something I do whenever I have time at my disposal. But, I am not lucky on that front since most of times I am busy with my shoots.

Are you doing any international films too?
I would surely love to do that. But at the moment I am happy with my Bollywood projects and there are more films that are coming up, so my attention is on doing Hindi films for the moment.

Farhan Akhtar

2008-10-23T00:59:00.001-07:00

He is what one would call as the brooding face of the Indian cinema's present phase! He is the son of the master lyricist, Javed Akhtar. And it did not take time for Farhan Akhtar to move out of his father's shadows and carve a niche' for himself. The man was the centre of attention last year as he remade the 70's hit Don with Shah Rukh Khan. Farhan will now be making his onscreen debut with The Fakir of Venice. He has also made a short film on AIDS for the Bill Gates Foundation and is working on the script of Don 2

Read on to find out what has kept the charming filmmaker busy for the past one year:

Tell us something about the film on AIDS that you made for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. What is the story of the film?
Positive is a 12-minute film with no music, but its background score is by Ram Sampat. The film stars Boman Irani, Shabana Azmi and debutant actor, Arjun Mathur and the film was entirely shot in Mumbai. It talks about the importance of family's support to a person suffering with HIV. Just as a social stigma, many people believe that a HIV patient should be isolated and have certain misconceptions about dealing with the disease. India has a lot of joint families. So, it's very important for the families to understand the value of support to the person who has acquired this disease.

Considering the fact that there were other directors too, like Mira Nair, Santosh Sivan, Vishal Bhardwaj, whose film did u like the most and why?
It's really difficult to say. But, the one that film that appealed to me visually was Vishal Bhardwaj's. It's a film that has a very strong and obvious optimistic message with a happy ending. I like the way it was done and visualized.

How did this entire deal happen? Who initiated it?
It was initiated by Mira Nair. It's totally her project. She contacted me and asked me if I wanted to make one of the short films. And I was game for it.

Positive was also screened at the Toronto Film festival. How was the response?
Unfortunately, I was down with malaria; hence, I wasn't able to make it. But, everyone who was there, including Mira have emailed me and told me that the film was very well received.

Will the movies get a theatrical release in India?
Currently, that is something we are working towards, as to how to go about bringing it to the theaters in India. Right now, we want to focus on December 1, since it is 'World AIDS Day'. We are trying to get as many news and entertainment channels to air these films simultaneously. All these films deal with the very relevant issue of HIV awareness and how to deal with it, since the time is not far away, when India will become the world's AIDS capital. So, it's really high time that we take this issue very seriously.

What is the status of Luck By Chance, a film in which you are also acting as the lead and who is your leading lady?
We roll in the month of March.

You have already acted in The Fakir of Venice. Tell us something more about the film.
The film is complete and is in its final sound mixing stage. Anand Sorapur, the producer-director of the film desires to take this film and screen it for a couple of studios to the west. This film is basically a black comedy and about two characters, that's Anu Kapoor (playing the fakir) and there's me, in the role of a character called Adi Contractor, who works as a production coordinator, for shoots in India and is given the task of taking the Fakir to Venice for human instillation. The story takes on from there.

Dil Chahta Hai is getting digitalized. What's the difference between the original and the digital version of Dil Chahta Hai?
The original version was a straight transfer of the negative to make a DVD, where as the latest thing is that we have recently done a high definition transfer, by which we have cleaned the entire print on a Digital Intermediate (DI). So, now, the resultant picture is a lot cleaner without any marks, scratches or dust. We have also redone the picture, remastered the sound as per today's available technology. So, it's just a fresher picture and sound.

So, does that mean that all the films from the Excel stable will be digital?
Subsequently, after Dil Chahta Hai, Don, Lakshya and Honeymoon Travels were on digital process. We could not do Dil Chahta Hai on a digital, coz' this technology was not available then.

Whose idea was it to revive this film through digital prints?
All the negatives have a certain shelf life. So, when the negative is kept in the lab, even under the best of conditions, there will be a certain effect of aging on the negative. So, the best way to preserve your film in its best form is to be able to do it digitally. And since Dil Chahta Hai is a very precious film for all of us, we thought of doing it the digital way, coz' if we ever need the film even 50 -75 years down the line,

we will have the film then, with high standards.

The digitalized version is getting released in Germany .
As of now, it's being released only in the German language in Germany. And when the re-release of Dil Chahta Hai DVD happens overseas as well as in India, we will be releasing the high-definition version of the same.

What can one look up to from Excel Films? And what's the progress on the much talked about sequel, Don 2?
As far as the future projects of Excel Entertainment are concerned, we have an untitled film with Abhishek 'Gattu' Kapoor, which gets started in January, Zoya's Luck By Chance starting in March, and my next project will start in September. As far as Don 2 is concerned, the story is done and it is in its screenplay stage.

Rumors are strong about the presence of Aamir in the film. Do you want to confirm this?
I have never heard about this rumor. I am hearing it from you from the first time

Konkona Sen Sharma

2008-10-23T00:56:00.001-07:00

She is referred to as new age Shabana Azmi. And with some scintillating performances in Mr and Mrs Iyyer, Omkara, 15 Park Avenue and Page 3, Konkona Sen Sharma is carving a niche for herself in serious yet mainstream cinema. She shall be seen next in Pradeep Sarkar's Laaga Chunari Mein Daag where she is playing the younger sister of Rani Mukherji. "Badki is a bit of a mother," Konkona says about Rani's character. She has a lot to say about the entire star cast, how she bagged the film and why it has become one of the most special films she has ever done.

What do you think about the music of Laaga Chunari Mein Daag?
I think what's great about the music is that most of the songs have very different flavours from each other. 'Hum to Aise Hain Bhaiya' is very different from the title track 'Laaga Chunari Mein Daag' which is very different from 'Ek Teekhi Teekhi Si Ladki'. So it will appeal to many different kinds of people.

Which is your favourite track from the album?
Its hard to say which is my favourite track because the first time when I heard 'Hum Toh Aise Hai Bhaiya', I thought to myself that this is my favourite track. Then I heard 'Ek Teekhi Teekhi Si Ladki' and I was like that this is the best. I think 'Laaga Chunari Mein Daag' in itself is also really fabulous. In retrospect I think 'Hum Toh Aise Hain Bhaiya' is probably the best track because it has the flavour of Benaras, of the two sisters. It's the beginning of the film and it sets the tone for me. So I think that's my favourite track.

How would you describe your character in the film?
My character's name is Chutki. Her erstwhile name is Shubhavari Sahay but I think she's called that may be once in the whole film. Chutki is a very lively kind of a girl. She is full of life, very intelligent. She has a mind of her own. She has clear views on certain things in life and she is quite uncompromising in her stance, in her outlook towards life in general.

Can you relate to the character in real life?
I do relate to the character Chutki a lot. I would agree with her on every subject but by and large she is someone whose attitude I like, whose vivacity I like and I would like to think that I am like that in some way.

There is a very strong sibling bond shown in the film? Do you share a similar bond with your sibling in real life?
I do have an elder sister and we are very close. My sister is ten years older then me and in the film Rani is supposed to be just a couple of years elder then me. I am very close to my sister but it's a very different kind of a bond. I think the two sisters in this film right from the beginning are very good friends. I think all elder sisters have this where Badki is a bit of a mother, tries to be a little bossy with Chutki sometimes and there are flavors of those elements which I find in my relationship with my sister. For example the scene in which Badki tells Chutki that we have picked her up from the garbage dump and I remember that because my sister used to tell me that when I was a kid. I think sisters and siblings everywhere will relate to that bond which we have shown in the film. I think sisters just become friends at least I am very lucky to have a sister and so are Badki and Chutki.

What was it like working with Pradeep Sarkar?
It was lovely working with him. In the beginning I hadn't quite figured him out so I used to be little scared of him because he has quite a gruff manner. Now, I have realized through the working of the film that he is very sweet and one has to kind of learn to deal with him. Now I can feel affection for him. I don't always take him so seriously but first few days I would be nervous whether I was doing things correctly.

What was the experience of shooting in Benaras like?
We had quite a few location changes for this film. We had Benaras, Switzerland and Bombay and I think the most intense was Benaras. I had gone to Benaras for the first time in my life. That in itself is something because it is such a visually crowded place and the space I think really inspires filmmakers because it is so ancient and because of the river, temple and the ghats. It's unique. We had a superb time shooting there. It was intense, also it was the first time that we all got together, the energy was there. In Bombay what happens is that when you shoot everyone goes back to their own houses and they have their own lives to deal with We didn't have that in Benaras and I think the film actually reflects that.

What was it like working with Jaya Bachchan?
I love working with her. She is just fabulous I responded to her immediately. She is so warm, she is so gracious as a person and I guess there was some kind of connection. In Benaras in the beginning I was a bit lost and she really took me under her wing and I feel so grateful she was very affectionate, caring and I really enjoyed working with her. I wouldn't even say I enjoyed working with her I just enjoyed being with her on set, off set we would have dinner together or whatever it is.

What was it like working with Rani Mukherji?
It was superb working with Rani. I was a big fan of hers before and I remember the first day I met her was at the reading for Laaga Chunari Mein Daag. Very shyly and nervously I told her that I am a big fan of hers and she just laughed very sweetly and I don't even think she even took me seriously. It's a pleasure working with her. She is very professional but she is very much a real person. She doesn't have starry airs and she is not snooty. So, it was difficult for me to reconcile the two images - the Rani I know on screen and the Rani I knew in person. There is so much to learn from her, she is a gifted actress, a great dancer. I think the chemistry we shared shows on screen. I had a lovely time.

What was it like working with Abhishek Bachchan?
I didn't have too many scenes with Abhishek. We just had a song together and one scene together. He's good fun always cracking jokes on set making fun of everyone so the atmosphere is light and convivial. It's been good fun and he has a nice energy.

What was it like working with Anupam Kher?
Anupamji is another person whom I took to immediately because the first day he came on set in Benaras, I think I was quite bored that day I probably didn't have much to do and he came and he just started playing games and I love playing games and so does he. We used to play these word making games and all kinds of word games you can play at a set and the first few times I even beat him so that was a lot of fun. I enjoyed working with him.

What was it like working with Kunal Kapoor?
Kunal and I did two films back to back. We did Laaga Chunari Mein Daag and Aaja Nachle, so there was a process of getting to know each other. He is such a lovely person. There is not one malicious bone in his body, he is what he is, he is very ernest, very professional. There are these things that I could learn and you can just tease him, make fun of him and he takes it so well and he makes fun of me back. We share a very nice rapport, very comfortable and we remain friends even otherwise.

How did this film happen and what made you decide on doing it?
I had got a call from Aditya Chopra and he had asked me about Aaja Nachle. I was excited and I grabbed that opportunity to be a part of that film. Then I got a second call asking if I was interested in hearing the subject of Pradeep Sarkar's film. I had already heard of Dada making a new film so I was very excited to hear that I was being considered because I loved Parineeta. I wanted to work with Dada and I heard the script with Dada, and Rekha Nigam who wrote the film and I loved my part and I think any actor would have loved to do this role.

Can you tell us something about your styling in the film? Which is your favourite outfit from the film?
My clothes are designed by Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi who are the best of the best. The first half of the film is set in Benaras for which Sabyasachi did my clothes and for second half of the film where I am in Bombay, the look has been designed by Manish Malhotra. I personally like wearing Patyala and short kurtis so I was very comfortable in Sabyasachi clothes. At the same time I have to say Manish's clothes when I wore them I used to be very hesitant and unsure because it had to be more on the glamorous side. I would keep telling him that make the dress a little longer or give me sleeves, make the neckline higher and he would be like, trust me its going to look nice on the screen and it has. I have got many compliments, even his style of Churidar-Kameezes are so different from the earlier look and its been wonderful. I don't know if I will wear them off screen but I think it does look great. There is one outfit which I love which is a skimpy blue dress which I am wearing in the proposal scene in Laaga Chunari Mein Daag at the time of wearing that I was very apprehensive but I think it looks great on screen so I am glad he pushed the envelope.

Any memorable incident you remember during the shoot of the film?
One was I remember in Benaras when we were shooting the song 'Hum To Aise Hai Bhaiya' and there is a scene where my character is supposed to be having a glass of bhang and I had to actually swallow a lot of milk during that time. I was disgusted because I had to actually spit it out because we had to do quite a few takes. The other thing I remember is being in Switzerland and taking a helicopter shot where they had to put me on top of a cliff. I was wearing a skimpy white dress and it was freezing cold and I had to stand on this hilltop and wave frantically to this helicopter which is circling me. I was freezing and I thought my arms would fall off and it didn't work the first time so we had to go there the second day and do it all over again and I was alone except for one assistant who had come with me both times and we both just died.

What was the experience like shooting in a complete Bengali set up?
I felt like I was doing a Bengali film and I think many unit members also felt that they are doing a Bengali film because Dada would constantly talk in Bengali. I would feel very bad for the non-Bengalis because Dada would constantly give directions on the mike in fluent Bengali and his Hindi was also spoken in a very typical Bengali way. The food, the crew everything was very Bengali so I was quite comfortable.

What is it like to have a mother who is a director? Do you consult her about your roles?
I have to say one thing because she is a director she never takes my side. Any film that I am working on if I begin to complain because sometimes acting is very tedious she tells me that's the way film making is and she never takes my side ever, so that's the worst part of having a mom who is also a director. But at the same time its also very convenient because she knows it all because of her experience she can offer a lot I terms of advice and feedback and I often ask her about the offers I am getting and the script but nowadays its not much because we are not in the same city but we do talk and I value her advice very much.

Akshay Kumar

2008-10-23T00:52:00.001-07:00

Rajiv Hariom Bhatia to Akshay Kumar, he made the journey possible from a cook to a superstar. Akshay Kumar, the self made man that he is, has no qualms about working with any director. At ease with himself and trying to make his next appearance a bigger flick than ever. He is a man on a mission. With or without fame Akshay would always remain the same. With a series of back-to-back hits, Akshay is one of the biggest and successful stars in Bollywood today.

In an exclusive interview with IndiaFM, Akshay talks about his forthcoming flick Bhool Bhulaiyaa rumors about him which make front page news in tabloids and his journey to becoming a superstar.

To start with, Akshay, are you nervous or excited before the release of Bhool Bhulaiyaa?
No matter how many films I do, I will always be nervous and excited, both at the same time. For me every film of mine is important no matter how big a star I become. By now, I have probably worked in over 110 films but still that jitter is always there. I do not have words to express how I truly feel now the countdown has already begun.

So what is Bhool Bhulaiyaa all about?
Bhool Bhulaiyaa is not a typical comedy film. It's not a 'leave your brains aside' kind of comedy, instead I would recommend that if you are going to watch Bhool Bhulaiyaa kindly carry your brain with you. This is probably India's first psychological thriller with an element of comedy in it. It does not resort to a garish and 'banana peel' kind of humor. Priyadarshan has used comedy very subtly and intelligently. It is not an outright comedy film. The story is told so ingeniously, that it is beyond ones imagination.

So according to you, what is the genre of the film?
The film belongs to the genre of thrillers at the same time it is not serious. Bhool Bhulaiyaa is packaged with humor. Then again people associate Priyadarshan and my name with comedy film going back to old films like Hera Pheri, Garam Masala, etc. Nevertheless, that is not how it is; in the case of Bhool Bhulaiyaa, it is actually a very different kind of film. You might probably hear this from many actors, I know it sounds cliched but honestly, Bhool Bhulaiyaa is a unique film.

Tell us something about your role in the film?
In the movie, I play the role of a psychiatrist, who comes to the palace in order to investigate a strange case. He tries to figure out a logical explanation to the whole disturbance in the palace before it causes more harm than one could imagine.

Bhool Bhulaiyya may not be a film about ghosts. Nevertheless, on a personal note have you ever encountered a spooky experience in real life?
Yes and no, implying that I have not seen it personally but I have heard about such cases. I remember when I used to stay in Bandra east earlier; there were rumors about a three-headed woman who walked the streets after midnight. She was called the 'teen mundiyonwaali chudail'. In those times, it sure sounded freaky, but no one really saw her, everyone had only heard about her. Whether it was true or a baseless rumor remains unknown unto this day.

What does the audience get out of the film?
Bhool Bhulaiyaa will actually offer a lot to the audiences. It will not only provide entertainment but also try to make the audiences clear myths of supernatural presence. It is a fantastic film; it answers queries regarding spirit possession, exorcism, etc. Instead of assuming that a person is possessed, people must treat him or her and obtain medical help. The film explains this illness called multiple personality disorder. Often in real life, you would see such cases attended by ill-treating the person and physically abusing the person under the pretext of curing them. The film clears these superstitions.

How was the experience of working with Priyadarshan?
Priyadarshan and I go back a long way the relation I share with him is very different. Right from my first film with him to Bhool Bhulaiyaa, working with him has been a memorable experience. I have always enjoyed working with Priyadarshan, he is great person, and I have always had a 100% result with him. All my films have worked and I just hope that this one works too. I am waiting eagerly for the audience's response.

The film also has an interesting star cast, how was it working with them?
Honestly, this whole film actually belongs to Vidya than me, mainly because she is the central character in the film. The story in the film revolves around her. She has given a fabulous performance in the film. Shobana earlier did this film in the Malayalam titled, 'Manichitrazh'. Shobana had even won the National award for her performance in this film. Shiney is also a good actor. He has done a great job, I am very happy with his performance.
It was heard that Priyadarshan was unhappy with Vidya Balan, as she could not dance. Comment.
Oh, no that is not true at all. Vidya has done brilliant job. Just wait for the release and you will know what I am saying is true. The movie will release soon, and then you can judge for yourself. These are all useless and baseless rumors.

Have you seen the original film?
No, I have not seen it. We were asked not to see it. Moreover, I personally did not think it would be right because I do not want to copy Mr. Mohanlal, who plays the role of the doctor in the Malayalam film.

How do you deal with malicious gossips about your personal life in the press?
Simple I file a case against them. I have done it earlier and nothing would stop me from doing it again. Earlier also when I filed a complaint against a newspaper, I think IndiaFM had reported it and spoken to me regarding it. That is how I react, if things get too personal.

Are you more comfortable working with directors whom you know already or the new directors?
I am very comfortable working with new directors. If you see, 80% of my hits have always come from a debutant director. I am very relaxed, for that matter. Vipul was new when I did his Namastey London and a debut director directs Tashan. I have no qualms about the director if the script is good. And even if a film is directed by a friend the situation does not change anything.

Aren't you tired of hearing the same 'rumor' time and time again about you chopping your co-stars' scenes. Do you want to put your foot down and clarify this finally?
No, I do not want to clarify anything, if somebody is enjoying himself or herself then let them go on. If media feels, its great to write about irrelevant things like this then it is their choice, let them go on, why should I stop them. Moreover, there is nothing to talk about because it does not affect me personally. However if an actor says that his role is chopped by me, then it is not an insult to me but to the sensibility of the director, that he allows actors to intervene into direction. Do you think Priyadarshan will allow such a thing; it is impossible.

What thoughts come to your mind when you recollect the incident at Churchgate when you could not afford to buy a book?
Yes I do remember that, it was a book called 'How to Learn Acting'. However, today I can say that I learnt acting without having to spend a single penny on that book. Its something called fate by which I became an actor and a star now. What I learnt in this course of time is that if you want to be a good actor, be a good human being then fate will work wonders.

Do you feel that acting can be taught or learnt, a la cookery, or is it that actors are just born?
I cannot talk on behalf of everyone, this is strictly my opinion that its experience that makes an actor. It was sheer experience that made me what I am today, a self-made man.

Vidya Balan

2008-10-23T00:50:00.001-07:00

Lately, Vidya Balan has earned a reputation for getting into controversies over refusal of roles or disagreeing with costume designers. The actress clarifies about some of the misunderstandings
Excerpts of an interview:

Tell us about BHOOL BHULAIYA?
That's my next release. I play the catalyst in the film that opens the door to a chain of events. I am very excited about the film. It's a psychological thriller in true sense. I loved being directed by Priyadarshan.

You were criticized for your look in HEYY BABYY?
As a team, Manish Malhotra (fashion designer for me in HEYY BABYY) should have worked better. I think it was the collective responsibility of Manish Malhotra and myself.

You had put on lots of weight in the recent past?
Yes.

Why did you allow it to happen?
I think I had allowed things to drift. I should have looked after myself more. But it's fine now. I am gyming a lot now and keeping as fit as a fiddle.

You had problems with Aki Narula's clothes while shooting for Ramesh Taurani's film in Canada?
Such things happen. It's not a big deal. I don't know why the media went ballistic about it. Aki left the clothes and came away to India. I didn't like some of the clothes because I felt that they didn't go with the character. So, I went to shop on my own. That was fun.

All is not well between you and your mentor Pradeep Sarkar?
Yeah. Dada (Sarkar) was offended when I refused LAAGA CHUNARI MEIN DAAG (that role has been done by Konkona Sen Sharma).

How long will his heartburn last?
That I can't say. But knowing Dada, I am sure that he will come around.

Why did you turn down Laaga...?
Dada wanted me to shoot in January '07 but I had committed those dates for HEYY BABYY a year before.

Why couldn't you adjust the dates?
That was next to impossible. Akshay Kumar, Fardeen Khan and Riteish Deshmukh were not free for a long time after that, and I surely cannot compel them.

You refused Sudhir Mishra too when he offered you to play the lead in KHOYYA KHOYYA CHAND (that role has been done by Soha Ali Khan)?
I had a few questions on the role.

Sudhir didn't take it well?
That's right. But I hope that he understands one day. There was no personal agenda. An actor does have queries sometimes.

On Shaji Karun's SURYAMUKHI, which you didn't accept?
I loved that role and wanted to do it. But the film got delayed. When they finally decided to start shooting, I was leaving for Jaipur for BHOOL BHULAIYA shoot. That's the only reason. Surely, I can't be in two different cities at the same time.

Rani Mukherjee's

2008-10-23T00:47:00.000-07:00

Richa Sharma sings the title Saawariya in the promos and even today she sang on stage and left everyone speechless. What do you have to say about her voice?

I think Richa has a wonderful, tremendous voice and the kind of voice quality that comes out from Richa is outstanding. Today what she did was completely outstanding because when you are on stage and there is no music, and to still sing like that; I think she is outstanding. But then who am I to comment. God Saraswati has blessed her immensely. I have always believed that singers and musician have so many blessings from God Saraswati that their talent is unbelievable and it's god gifted and Richa is definitely one of the blessed ones.

Today was a huge event for Saawariya as it was the music launch as well as the launch of two new, fresh faces. How did you feel working with them?
For me, my feeling working with

Sonam and Ranbir is different because I have known them from before. I have literally seen Ranbir and Sonam, both of them, groomed in front of me and now they come like this today. So in a strange way I feel immense pride in the way they have turned out and I feel extremely happy that today I am a part of the music launch and that I have introduced Ranbir and of course Salman has introduced Sonam. I feel extremely happy being a part of this.

You were a part of the

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Black which is one of your biggest films in terms of critical and public acclaim. Now you are back in Saawariya, so how did it feel this time around?
For me, Sanjay will always be special because he is one of my favorite directors and I absolutely adore him; he is my friend and the kind of relationship that we have when working and the kind of rapport we have created right from Black is something really rare and very special. I hope this bond continues and that we make some more movies together.

When u were working on Black, both Ranbir and Sonam were assisting Bhansali, and now they are your co-actors. Any difference in the relationship then and now?
The difference is that when I was doing Black, these assistants were behind the camera and now, while filming Saawariya, these two were in costume with their make-up on, in front of the camera. But otherwise, there were exactly how they were while filming Black; there was no difference. Only thing is yes, they were nervous because they were facing the camera this time and they were in fact nervous even in front of me. So I used to try and kind of joke around with them a bit and put them at ease so that they didn't get nervous. But because they have such a great guide and they were under the guidance of Sanjay, they didn't really need anything else. It's a blessing that both of them are launched by Sanjay because he is a great director, one of the finest that we have today, not just for newcomers but even for experienced actors because he gives so much time to groom them and to help them grow as actors in the film process. He is really really special so I would say that Ranbir and Sonam are very fortunate and blessed that they have been launched under his banner.

What type of response do you think these 2 will get from the audiences?
Both of them are going to create a stir. If I talk about Ranbir, he is going to have a great female following because the way he dances, he has got touches of both Neetuji and Rishiji and he dances tremendously well. I think that is one quality that will be very endearing for people to watch even though he still has his own unique style of dancing because when he comes on screen, obviously people are going to think "will he be able to bring back that Rishi-Neetu magic of dance.' But I think Ranbir has a special way of dancing, he's got a very nice style. And of course Sonam looks so beautiful on screen, that I think she has got both Anil and Sunita's good qualities in her which is why she has grown up to be such a beautiful girl. She's going to have a tremendous male following and I think they are both going to be two of the biggest stars in Indian Cinema.

Kalpana Lakmi

2008-10-23T00:43:00.000-07:00

what is going on at Lajmi's end.
She is a niece of legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt. On her own, Kalpana Lajmi walks tall as an award-winning filmmaker for movies like EK PAL, RUDALI, DARMIYAAN, DAMAN, etc. But she has been unusually silent after her last film CHINGAARI. Now MUJHE RANG DE (with Ishaa Koppikar, Rahul Dev, Rituparna Sengupta) announced sometime ago is yet to get off the block. What's happening on the Lajmi front?

Excerpts from an interview:

What is happening to MUJHE RANG DE?
The film was supposed to start in October but has now been put on the backburner.

Why?
Ishaa has opted out.

You could have taken someone else?

I turned to Urmila Matondkar to step into Ishaa's shoes. Urmila agreed. Few days later, even she backed out.

But hadn't Ishaa signed on the dotted line?
Yes.

So why did she opt out after that?
She suddenly fell silent and refused to respond to my calls. I told Mahendra Dhariwal (the producer) that it was clear that she was not interested in the project anymore. She kept me in the dark for nearly six months. Till then, I had made several calls to her- but to no avail. Finally, she informed my assistant that we couldn't reach her simply because she had disconnected her phone since somebody was stalking her. For six months? God!

What did you do then?
I approached Urmila Matondkar, but before that I sent a SMS to Ishaa.

What did the message say?
The message read: 'Ishaa, you are a very fine person. I like you very much. But please don't get caught up with people who don't show you the mirror of reality'.

What happened with Urmila? Did she too opt out?
Suddenly she told me that she won't be able to give me dates since she was busy with shows. I told her that I was ready to wait till her shows get over- but she insisted that I let this pass.

What could I do? Am I in a position that I can sit and make enemies?
Is it because Mahendra Dhariwal is not a big name and today's actors want to work with big banners only?

Shreyas Talpade

2008-10-23T00:25:00.001-07:00

Shreyas Talpade's DIL DOSTI ETC. releases today. Here he talks about his shooting experience in Delhi and his own college life.

Was DIL DOSTI ETC. the first film for which you shot in Delhi?
Ya, this was the first time I was shooting in Delhi. And that too we chose the right month of May; I will never really forget that shoot (laughs)! I don't know why its in my fate or fortune or there is something about my face that people want me to shoot only in summers in hot places like Bangkok, Delhi and Rajashtan. So eventually I think I will end up shooting only in these places and not in Switzerland and Canada. I think I am made for Rajasthan, Bhuj etc. (laughs)!

When you shot in Hindu college campus, did it remind you of your college days?
Well ya, in fact I still remember that even in real life I had tried contesting the election in college days. And to think of it I wasn't really keen on it. I just signed the form because someone in the drama team asked me if I was interested in fighting an election. I just filled the form, never campaigned and I just went to five class rooms for campaigning. That was it and after that I said that okay I am bored now!

How many votes did he eventually get?
[Laughs] Four, which included one from me. There were three others and no one even knew that I was contesting. During that time I remember that there were a couple of candidates who never threatened me but as friends asked me why was I running for elections? They did say that I will eat up their votes. Even when I assured that hardly anyone knew me, they wanted me to take back my form. That's the point when I snapped and decided that I had to go for it. Though it's a different matter that what I got was mere 4 votes. That was it. That was the end of my political career. Finito!

Coming to the film, any particular sequence that he enjoyed doing most?
Well there are many sequences of mine which I enjoyed doing. There are so many things which I really haven't done before on screen and also people haven't seen me doing. Personally too I felt that let me try doing it because for me I don't really want to get into a particular image or a character. So I really had good fun. Things like threatening someone, getting romantic with a girl in a very awkward way, bonding with one junior whom I am suppose to rag - There is always this uncertainty and a little bit of awkwardness in Sanjay Mishra.

What really is Sanjay Mishra, the character you play?
When he is in his elements, for example, he has to go and shoot someone or hit someone or maybe threatens someone - it's only that time that he is extremely confident and he feels that this is my space and I can really handle it well. These are the interesting little things that I got to work on. So I pretty much enjoyed the whole film.

How about pretty young girl Ishitta?
We just did one song together and there is one small sequence in the film where I and Imaad are walking down the street and she calls us. That's where I talk to her and apart from that Imaad has most of his scenes with her. She is a sweet girl. She is so small and I think she has a pretty good potential. If she is in college, she should finish her education first and then really concentrate on whether she wants to become an actress. She has an ability to improvise and work on her character. There are very few people who come with this understanding.

Tanushree Datta

2008-10-23T00:21:00.000-07:00

Tanushree Dutta made her Bollywood debut in with Aashiq Banaya Aapne opposite Emraan Hashmi in 2005. She has experimented with different genres be it thriller in Chocolate or suspense in Raqeeb. She did a cameo in Priyadarshan's comedy Bhagam Bhaag and then bagged the lead role in his next venture Dhol which is all set to release this week. This dusky sexy siren has also stepped into endorsements; for Geetajali Jewelry, the D' Damas Group.

In an exclusive interview, Tanushree talks about her upcoming film Dhol.

What is Dhol all about?
I think I would be giving away too much of the plot if I say what exactly will happen in the film. There's a bit of suspense thrill element also in the film but primarily, it is comedy film. Basically there are these five guys Tusshar, Kunal, Sharman, Arbaaz and Rajpal Yadav trying to get my attention. I'm playing the character of a rich girl and these five guys are head over heels in love with me. Besides this, there are other interesting things which are worth watching. It's a mad cat comedy. These guys have an excellent rapport among themselves and share excellent chemistry.

What made you sign this film?
Primarily, it was my desire to work with Mr. Priyadarshan. I have worked with him earlier in Bhagam Bhag. I think he is an excellent director and I couldn't stop myself availing the opportunity of working with him again.

So, is Priyadarshan the factor that made you sign this film and not the script?
See, Priyadarshan has a reputation of churning out comedy films which have gone ahead and become blockbusters. I think he is a maestro at comedy and I have blind faith in him as a director. And thus it goes without saying, that the script is a fabulous one and I have been offered one of the central characters. So, there was nothing much to ask beyond that.

What is your character in the film?
I play a small town girl. I drive a two-wheeler scooty in the film and just out of the college.

So, your character is no different from any other character you have played before?
I think that should be figured out once you watch the film.

Do you have any specific look for this film?
I do not have a very alluring look in the film. I am to portray the look of a simple girl although she has the capacity to dress up like a diva but she chooses simplicity over glamour. That's about it.

How was it working with Tusshar, Kunal, Sharman, Arbaaz, Rajpal Yadav and Om Puri?
It was fantastic. I have worked with Tushaar and Sharman earlier in Good boy Bad boy and Raqeeb respectively. It was wonderful and comfortable working with them. I was really taken aback by Kunal's work because it's the first time he is doing a comedy film and Rajpal was too good.
I was looking forward to shoot with Om Puriji. He is a very senior actor and has been in the industry for a very long time now. It was good learning experience being around him on the sets.

How is Priyadarshan as a director?
I think there's a lot an actor can learn from him because he gives a lot of input in terms of enhancing ones performance. He is very precise and particular about what he wants from an actor and how he wants an actor to perform a particular scene. An actors' work becomes so much simpler. He would enact out certain scenes if the actor would not be able to understand his requirements; it's wonderful to work with a director like Priyadarshan.

What is your dream role?
My dream role (pauses) I think I have always said it. It would be an action-oriented film where I actually get to do the action. This is something which we have always seen in Hollywood films. And I feel Indian Filmmakers should give an opportunity to actresses to work in action films.

Coming back to Dhol how is the music of the film?
The music of the film is very catchy, specially the title track which I am personally very fond of. And there is one more song, 'Bheegha Aasmaan' which I have shot with the four boys; more like a fantasy, there's lot of comedy throughout the song. I like it because it's my film. I would be biased towards it. I think most of my film songs have done really well.

Any memorable moments you cherish today?
I think our Pune schedule was a lot of fun. All five of us built a great rapport during that time. These four boys would enact their scene and when I would turn around, I would burst into laughter. The mischief these four were upto was too funny to handle. I would keep laughing at one corner by myself.

Why should people go and watch the film?
I think the USP of the film is that it is full of young stars. It's a comedy with a little twist and a dash of suspense and thriller angle to go with it; which I would not want to disclose. It's a bit unusual as normally you have a complete comedy or thriller.

What according to you works, acting skills or acting with a big production house?
Both I guess, it depends on what I am working on. There are times when you come across some fabulous roles which you always wanted to do but there may not be bigger names involved in it. And then, there are these big banners making a film which offers you insignificant role but you are certain that you will be presented in a very good manner. And your hardwork wouldn't go waste. I think lot of things count.

If Yash Raj Productions offers you a film and you don't like the script. What would be your decision?
I guess I have been ardent Yash Raj fan since many years. And, always want to be a part of their film. Though there are very less chances of my not liking the script. However, if that happens, I would still go ahead and do that film.

You have explored your acting skills in all sorts of genres. Which genre do you feel can give your career a new dimension where you are most comfortable?
The reason why have been exploring genres because I don't want to restrict my career nor let it get monotonous. I don't think I can pin point a particular kind of role or genre I enjoyed the most. I love all of them. But if I were to do the same thing again and again, I would get bored. It's not about experimenting but doing something different every time.

Have you signed any deals with any production house?
I do have a three film contract with Subhash Ghai (Mukta Arts) which I had signed during Good Boy Bad Boy. That's the only deal.

Have you signed any new project?
I have signed an action film which is yet to be titled; it will be directed by a new director, Hadi Abrar. It's not a part of mainstream cinema; something which will give a swing to my career. And I am in the process of signing some films but I don't think it's the right time to talk about it. I am very superstitious about these things and I'd rather wait for the right time for now I only want to concentrate on Dhol.

What is your take on exposing in the films?
I have no take on it I guess (pauses) I have no take on it actually

When is Speed going to release?
I have no clue (laughs) seriously I really have no clue. We have been shooting for it from a very long time now. But I am great expectations from that film because it's taken a long time to complete it. I am longing for the day of its release.

You have switched over to brand endorsements. Which product are you endorsing?
Gitanjali jewelry, the D'damas group.

How did this happen?
They had kept a track of my career, from the beginning. I guess they thought I fit the bill perfectly and so they approached me with this offer. Moreover, I have a great inclination towards jewelry; hence this offer fascinated me. I guess being an ambassador of jewelry brand; will only add to my personality.

Smriti Mishra

2008-10-23T00:18:00.000-07:00

Smriti Mishra plays this attractive but sharp-tongued prostitute Vaishali. She claims never to be emotionally attached to her customers.

What was your initial reaction when Manish Tiwary came to you with Vaishali's role? What made you go for it?
When Manish gave the script to me to read, I remember liking the role of Vaishali from the very start. But the use of strong language and to play a sex worker was not an easy decision. We worked on it, and slowly it became easy for me to go for it.

What is the film 'Dil Dosti Etc.' about?
As the name suggests, the film is about relationships. You have to watch the movie to see how they play out.

What is Vaishali like? Her aspirations, her values, please tell us something.
Vaishali is a professional sex worker. She is very clear about her "just-sex, no-relationship' rule with her customers. But somewhere she has a craving for love like any normal human being, and falls for a young college going boy, Apurv (played by Imaad Shah).

What is your personal opinion on college elections?
I think, college elections are worth only a laugh for most students. It is not a mature way to get involved with politics. When you are in college, you can either study or do politics. One thing at a time.

How did you get into the skin of Vaishali, and started living your character?
In the beginning, I was at a loss to get the right chord. We did a preparation workshop with Anamika Haksar that helped Imaad and I to open up. I also thought of meeting a prostitute but opted out. I decided to trust the director and my own imagination to carry out the task.

Did you do any kind of preparation – by way of manners, accent, and gestures?
Practice makes you perfect, they say! We did lines and scenes from the film several times over before the shoot. As I said, Anamika too was of help during this period.

And what is the relationship you share with Imaad Shah in the film?
Vaishali's relationship with Imaad has several layers. Though, in short, it contains all elements of a man-woman relationship.

What was it like working with Imaad Shah? What do you feel about him as an actor, and his role in this film?
I feel Imaad is a natural and skillful actor. He had let himself be comfortable with me and let me be comfortable with him - which was the most important element for me to carry out the role of Vaishali. You can see both a good man and a great actor in this very young and great looking guy. I will go as far as saying that Imaad Shah is the best male co-actor I have worked with so far.

The entire shooting took place in Delhi, what was it like to shoot in real setting?
To me, all sets are part real and part unreal. A bit like me.

What do you remember most about shooting in the Kotha and Delhi in general?
Thanks to our location manager and art director, it indeed felt like kotha and had me living as Vaishali in it.

Any favorite scene?
All my scenes with Imaad Shah.

What has it been like working with Prakash Jha Productions?
Prakash Jha Production needs no recognition. It was great.

Nikita Anand

2008-10-23T00:15:00.000-07:00

Nikita Anand plays the role of Prerna who is the rich South Delhi babe who aspires to become an international model, and yet finds herself attracted to the earthy and charismatic student-politician, Sanjay.

Tell us little about your background - modelling- Ms. India - films. What has been the journey like?
I have been participating and winning local pageants and had also started modeling post finishing my 12th. So, the next step for me was trying for the Miss India contest and I won it. Post winning the title, it's been a great journey; there have always been new things to look forward to, new challenges, meeting and interacting with new people.

What was your initial reaction when Manish Tiwari came to you with Prerna's role? What made you go for it?
I liked Prerna's character when Manish narrated it to me. She is a confident, young aspiring model who has grown up without her mother and therefore looks up to her dad. She is very independent, likes her freedom, and knows exactly what she wants.

What is the film "Dil Dosti Etc' about?
Set against the backdrop of Delhi University, the film is a realistic take on today's' college life. As a youngster, the possibilities today are endless and this film explores these possibilities… it's a film every college student, youngster can relate to.

How did you get into the role? Did it come easy because of your earlier experience of Femina Ms India?
Having stayed in Delhi helped because the film is based around Delhi University. Also, having been a Miss India and having had the experience of modeling was very helpful in getting into Prerna's role.

Did you do any kind of preparation – by way of manners, accent, and gestures?
Most of the cast of Dil, Dosti etc was decided, except Prerna's character. So, a workshop was organized to get me to know the rest of the actors. Anamika from NSD made all of us to some acting exercises to get into the role.

And what is the relationship you share with Sanjay Mishra and Imaad Shah.
Prerna is from the same college as Sanjay Mishra and Apurv. Sanjay is a focused student vying to win the DU elections and Prerna likes Sanjay's confidence and becomes his love interest. Then later their relationship takes a turn and that is when Prerna really gets to know Apurv.

What was it like working with Shreyas Talpade and Imaad Shah? What do you feel about him as an actor, his role in this film?
Working with Shreyas was great. Along with having fun on the set, Shreyas is a wonderful actor and there was a lot I learnt from him. He is also very helpful and does not hesitate in helping out during the scenes. Imaad on the other hand is opposite in nature. He is more reserved and with a different style of acting. Working with both was an experience.

The entire shooting took place in Delhi, what was it like to shoot in real setting?
It was tough and hectic! That is because; we were shooting during peak Delhi summers. But there is a charm of shooting at real outdoor locations, like we did in Delhi.

What do you remember most about shooting in the Hindu College Campus and Delhi in general?
How HOT it was. Literally! But on a serious note, I love Delhi and it was enjoyable to shoot in the city.

Any lighter moments on the sets? What else did you do on the sets besides working?
Lots of mimicry (curtsy Shreyas) and singing. There was also a prank played on me by none other than Prakash Jha himself.

Any favorite scene?
I particularly enjoyed shooting the song scenes at the fort.

What has it been like working with Prakash Jha Productions?
It has been nice working with Prakash Jha Productions.

How has the film shaped up?
I think the film has been worked on a lot, more scenes have been added, and it is shaped up well.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali

2008-10-23T00:08:00.000-07:00

Vickey Lalwani, TWF, Bollywood Trade News NetworkLike all Sanjay Leela Bhansali's movies, nothing much is known about his next much awaited magnum opus SAAWARIYA. The only known fact is that it is a movie about three generations. He prefers not to discuss the story of the film. And why not? Farah Khan who locks horns with him with her OM SHANTI OM (both the films release on November 9) has also not spilled the beans on the plot of her film. But he is ready to answer almost everything else related to SAAWARIYA and its actors.

How did SAAWARIYA originate?
After BLACK, I was restless. I was wondering what I should do now. I had worked with Amitji, Salman, SRK. I kept asking myself what I could do to challenge myself. Then, I thought of doing a fresh, simple love story with newcomers- so that I would once again be on the toes. I decided to do something that would suit the legacy of Raj Kapoor and Nargis. I didn't want a family drama. I wanted people who weren't bigger than the film. I wanted the sound of dialogue and colours to be different. It took me about a year to put the whole picture in mind of what I wanted.

Why Ranbir and Sonam?
When he was assisting me on BLACK, I told Ranbir that he was an actor. But somebody told me that he came to me with a design; he wanted me to notice him. Sonam was also assisting me in BLACK. One day, I told her that she is actress material. She looked at herself and replied 'I am so huge and big. How can I become an actress?' That was an interesting acceptance from a person, and it impressed me. She was 90 kg then. Later, she went on a weight loss reduction mission. Both underwent vigorous training and then they were ready.

You are a hard task-master and you often lost your cool with them...
With Bachchan, SRK, Nana Patekar, Seema Biswas, one can't lose his cool because they deliver at that level. Add this to Madhuri Dixit, Rani Mukerji and Salman Khan, and you'll get the line up of actors I have worked with. I am used to that level of excellence.
Go on...
I have literally enjoyed every minute of making this film. After working with Ranbir and Sonam, I feel that I have become younger. This film has been a stress-buster for me. After doing heavy duty films, I was feeling stressed. I really had to look after their everything- ribbons, ear-rings, belts and even naadas. I became their mother and father on the set. They are very well behaved kids. Yes, there were moments when they wouldn't get it right. You haven't faced the camera and you enter such a huge set with hundreds of lights focusing on you- you should have seen my set at Nitin Desai Studios, the biggest set ever in Asia- trust me, it's not easy.

Its' said Sonam broke down into tears when you reprimanded her?
It has been blown out of proportion. Sonam is like a child to me. That part of her life which she should have spent in college, she has spent with me. I wanted her to be the best. Yes, she would cry if she was going through a certain moment where she wasn't getting it right. But then, we weren't in a school. We had worked for one-and-half year before we got in the thick of things- so that was school time. But when so much money is involved, you have to be quick at times and deliver.

She fled from the set, went back home. Your sister Bela (Sehgal) had to intervene and convince Anil and Sunita to make her return?
(Laughs) Why would Sonam run away from the set when her mother was sitting just few metres away? Sunita Kapoor was present on the set every single day. And what a wonderful lady! She never interfered. If I clapped for Sonam, she never joined in. If I corrected her, she never complained.

Did you treat Ranbir badly? Its said that you threw food on the ground and ordered him to lick it (during the shooting of BLACK)?
Rot. How can I ask Prithiviraj Kapoor's grandson to do that? I am a civilized person. I wouldn't do that to my worst enemy. Ranbir is like my son. I want to meet this someone who is fabricating and spreading these stories.

Buzz is, you tend to become abusive on the sets if and when you lose your cool?
Listen, I want to ask you a question...
Ask!
Why would Rishi, Neetu, Anil, Sunita allow their children to be treated badly by anybody? If it was happening, would they keep their hand on hand and keep silent about it? These parents are fit enough to give their kids as big as a launch as anybody else.
But so much has been written about you...
(Interrupts) The law of the press is simple. Favour the underdog and if he succeeds, then rip him apart. I think that I have answered your question.

Okay, but did you forbid Ranbir from occupying centre stage at Riddhima's wedding and attending parties, etc?
When you are doing your first film, I believe that you need to focus and be there completely for your film. Aap bahar jayenge, adulation mehsoos karenge, woh sab aapke dimaag ko asar karega. Better agar aap time be spyenge aur apni script padenge. Discipline is true for any job. Agar maine aapko bola ki ek code of conduct operate karo, toh isme bura kya hai?

You wanted him to look lean, right?
Yeah. I didn't want him to look muscular. I told him not to concentrate on body-building. Actors carry dumb-bells on the sets. What has that got to do with acting? Once you build that kind of muscular body, it even inhibits you from foraying into diverse characters. Can these muscular actors of today do Balraj Sahni's roles? Can they do a DEVDAS or a SAARANSH or even Amol Patekar's role in CHHOTI SI BAAT? If you are going to waste time in what you are wearing and how many extra inches you have in your arms, how can you concentrate and get into the skin of the character?

Do you think Ranbir has matched up to his father Rishi Kapoor?
He is outstanding in the film. I cannot tell his parents that he has bettered Rishi.

Why can't you tell them that?
Rishi and Neetu were my favourites. The entire Kapoor khandan will be proud of his performance. Nobody else could have done this role. I could have taken a set actor for this role, but I didn't want a set array of expressions. Ek do film ke baad, Ranbir aur Sonam ke bhi ban jayenge. But I wanted fresh expressions (pauses)- because their characters are very well etched in terms of emotional equilibrium. As for Sonam, I would say that she has done exceptionally well.

What are Salman Khan and Rani Mukerji doing in the film?
They are acting in the film (laughs). As I told you, I don't want to divulge the story. If I tell you anything about Rani and Salman, it would be giving away a lot.

Don't you think that you have taken a big responsibility by launching Ranbir and Sonam?
Yes. I was very much aware of that. Ranbir came from a family which has excellence in not only acting but film-making. Sonam is the daughter of a fine actor. But I didn't keep it in my head, for then I would have got bogged down. So that's why, they had to go through some scolding and firings.

Less than two months to go now. You have made big films and most of them were appreciated and won awards. Are you feeling the pressure?
I am not tensed. I have done my best and will always work hard and try to maintain a high standard of film-making

Imaad

2008-10-23T00:05:00.000-07:00

Tell us little about your background. What has been the journey been like?
The journey has been most interesting. To speak about my background of inclinations, I have always been in the middle of a theatre company, (Motley) almost by default. I was in the crowd of my first play when I was 3, and then have ended up doing several more. I also consider myself to have a background of music. I play the guitar and perform in bars, singing.

What was your initial reaction when Manish Tiwary came to you with Apurv role? What made you go for it?
Manish Tiwary (and Pawan Sony) had written a crisp and an intelligent script. I was also attracted to it because it is a film set in Delhi, a city I love.

What is the film "Dil Dosti Etc' about?
It is for me, about a set of people at one of the most delicate phases of life trying to make sense of their environment and relationships.

What's the character of Apurv like? His aspirations, dreams and values, please tell us something.
Apurv, even if slightly self-centered is fascinated by the world. His "values' though unacceptable to some, are built on natural needs and instincts. Through the film we see Apurv searching for meaning in life through his various experiences...

How did you get into the role?
By being myself and reading the script over and over.

Did you do any kind of preparation – by way of manners, accent, and gestures?
Very few in that department, because Apurv's manners and gesture I guessed, would be reasonably close to my own. The preparation was more based around being comfortable with a body language and trying to communicate with fellow actors through Anamica Haksar's workshop.

And what's the relationship you share with Shreyas Talpade.
We share a great rapport. He is a good influence to have while working because he has an ability to keep people together and to keep them happy and light hearted even while shooting in stress. He is, needless to say, a skilled actor too.

What was it like working with Smriti, Ishitta and Nikita? What do you feel about them as actors, and their role in this film?
Working with Smriti was interesting. I feel that she has pulled off a good performance. We shared a lot of preparation and workshop time and built our characters together. Ishitta and Nikita were fun too.

The entire shooting took place in Delhi, what was it like to shoot in real locations?
It was fantastic. This film would have worked no other way. Delhi is an enjoyable and beautiful city for me and I feel strongly that films should be shot on location as far as possible. Some of the locations we worked on in old Delhi were chaotic shoots but made for interesting moments in the film.

What do you remember most about shooting in the Hindu College Campus and Delhi in general?
The North Campus of Delhi University is a place full of characters. I'm glad we used it.
A lot of supporting actors in the film were college students from Delhi. It was great fun spending time with them. So whenever we had time off we would hang out at their regular college addas - drinking chai, eating momos...

Any lighter moments on the sets? What else did you do on the sets besides working?
Though this was not a light moment then, it is now. Some boys broke into our costumes room and stole all of our costumes. Many of my own clothes went.
Besides working I played lots of cricket, read, drank chai and smoked.

What has it been like working with Prakash Jha Productions?
They have been very kind to me. It's been a great learning experience working with them.

How has the film shaped up?
The film fulfils several of the promises that were made in the script. It's a film with

Gautam

2008-10-23T00:02:00.000-07:00

Have you been a cinema buff all through? What is your kind of cinema?
I have always been an avid film buff and have consumed all kinds of cinema. I have watched all the variety that Bollywood has to offer and of course, Hollywood. I don't have a concept of favourite films as they always keep changing with the passage of time – I guess, it kind of depends on the phase of life you are in and since that is never a constant, neither is a 'favourite film'. The same goes for books – when you are young you like different kind of books and then your taste palette keeps changing as you grow old and mature.

How did Go happen?
Well, I just met Ramu ji and showed him my body of work, which was mostly plays and performances on stage, and he seemed to like my energy and variety. He told me that he will keep me in mind and offer me a role when the right script came along – and here I am debuting with RGV.

Tell us about your character in Go.
I play the character of a young, energetic, confident, and full of life passion teenager. I have the kind of foolish, youthful arrogance that the teenagers possess. As the story progresses, Abhay (that's the name of the character I play) finds himself in a chase and meets a variety of characters and endures a variety of situations, emerging stronger, mellowed down and to a certain extent, grown up.

What was the most difficult part about playing 'Abhay'?
In a way, every aspect was difficult and in a way, all was easy. Difficult because this was my very first time with cinema as a medium and in that sense, all was new. And easy because I had no pressures whatsoever, no precedents of my own. The support and collaborative effort of the team was the main guiding force and every day was a new learning. I am learning still, that process isn't over yet.

Did you do any specific preparations for this role?
Yes, I did prepare quite a bit and yet, once in front of the camera, I felt as fresh and new as any new actor would in spite of all the practice and hard work. I did specific preparations to look the part of a teenager. I worked to get the casual, non-serious and an almost 'weak' look to be able to fit into Abhay's role.

Comedy, drama, action, romance – you do it all in GO. What are your inherent strengths?
I am still a newcomer, working hard to get it right. I don't think I have reached a stage where I can identify my inherent strengths as yet. But yes, not comedy, drama, action or romance, not any of those was extremely difficult. I have done all of this when I used to perform in plays. But as an actor in the cinematic medium, I am still a learner.

Tell us about your body of work before Go.
I have acted in a lot of plays…have been a very active member of theatre. The most recent one is 'Room No. 420' in which I play one of the lead roles. This role came by as a matter of chance, as the actor playing the lead opted out and I was offered this part. Well, the performance must have turned out well as the play is now being picked up to be made into a movie.

What, according to you, is the key difference between Cinema and Theatre?
I have always felt that while theatre is more of an actor's medium, cinema is a director's medium. In theatre, after all the practice, hard work, when the show rolls, then you are on your own with the audience…there is no mediator trying to orchestrate your interactions. Whereas, cinema is completely the director's medium. He holds the reigns and manages the tempo of the film and has all the variables of the performance in his control. That I think is the basic difference between the two.

How was your experience of working with Ram Gopal Varma productions?
It was fabulous. Like I said before, the entire film was a collaborative effort. Our inputs were taken on all aspects. I managed to learn so much from this experience other than just facing the camera. And RGV is just great – as a mentor, as a visionary, as a filmmaker…His cinema has always been different and ahead of its times. He is just so creative and his knowledge of cinema is immense and he is a great teacher. Always willing to discuss his viewpoints and always willing to listen to yours. I just learnt so much from my interactions with RGV. I mean, I really hope that I managed to gain some little wisdom from his great cinematic pool of wisdom.

Tell us about your experiences with your co-stars.
My interactions with Nisha Kothari and Kay Kay Menon were limited. But they were very supportive. Kay Kay would come up to me and discuss scenes and how they interpreted something. He is such an intense actor that even though I had limited scenes with him, I loved to watch him perform.

Rajpal Yadav is fantastic. He is wonderful – so full of energy and life. He would walk-in in front of the camera and takes his shot with such dramatic ease and then go in the corner and sleep. When his next shot was ready, he would wake up and spring into action almost instantly, walking away with a brilliant performance. That man is like rubber, you can mould him in any way you want to and he becomes just that. Now I know why Ramuji refers him as his best find.

What do you think about the music of GO?
Sneha is just 21 and she is a genius. She walks around with a recorder in her hand, recording the everyday noises from car honks to just about anything. She also murmurs into her recorder trying to recreate those sounds. I mean, I have never seen anybody do this. She is so focused and so open to new ideas. For the music of GO, we experimented a lot. Like for instance, for the title track, we used the highway noises to give it the feeling of a chase, of being on the run. Also, Sneha has used the shehnai in a club / lounge mood. I don't think that has ever been tried before. I love each and every track of the film, honestly. They are all unique and have a very young and new sound to them.

Tell us about your future plans.
Well, I have my fingers crossed. Give me a week and I will be able to give you some good news.

Bobby Doel

2008-10-22T23:58:00.000-07:00

Post Apne and Jhoom Baraabar Jhoom which is the most exciting project on your anvil?
Well, I am doing a film with Kabeer Kaushik who made Saher with Arshad Warsi. It will be a very realistic issue-based film, a first for me. Kabeer is a very talented director. I play a character from Bihar who migrates to Mumbai. I can't reveal any more.

So you're gravitating towards a more realistic cinema?
You know, Kabeer had come to me with Saher. I didn't know what he was capable of. I get very panicky with new directors. Now of course I'm far more confident. But at that time Saher looked too similar to that Ajay Devgan film Ganga Jal.

You suddenly seem to be back in a big way
Before Jhoom Baraabar Jhoom, I never had girls coming up to me to say I'm looking so hot. It's a new feeling. I'm very excited about Nanhe. I was waiting for a couple of my films to be released. We were right to wait for Nanhe to release at the proper time. It inspired Samir Karnik and me to do another film together with the boy (Dwij Yadav). It has the same actors, but playing different characters. In Roshan I'm not playing Bobby Deol as I'm in Nanhe. Incidentally that kid is extraordinary.

You never had so many releases in one year!
Yes, three releases one after another and many more to come. I never planned it that way. But when things start going wrong you either go the right way or pack up. I was working throughout the year. Somehow they started releasing one after another. I feel happy that people liked my work in Jhoom Barabar Jhoom

Your dancing was quite something in Jhoom….
That was Vaibhavi's doing. We Deols are so proud of her. When my brother was making London Vaibhavi was the dance director. And then there was another film with me where Aishwarya played the lead. Both the films got shelved. I'm telling you, Vaibhavi is the new Saroj Khan. Like Saroj, she doesn't only give the actors the steps but she also makes the actor feel those steps. Lately I didn't get to do much dancing.

But a lot of people don't like your excessively long hair.
I had it in some films. But I couldn’t get rid of it because of continuity. At the end of the day there will always be people who like or dislike something you do. I'm trying for a different look in every film. I like my long hair. But sometimes when the heat gets to me I want to shave my head off.

Suddenly you're seen everywhere
I guess for me work is very inspiring, and I need to work in an inspired atmosphere. Sometimes when I have to work in a non-productive atmosphere I get really stressed. That's where I start going wrong. And it couldn't go any more right for me than it did in Apne. We worked like a family. And the film looked like a family film. We let Anil Sharma direct the way he wanted to. His style of working is very different from other directors. I'm close enough to him to fight over the sets. Otherwise I just obey the director.

Was Apne an emotional experience for the Deol family?
When you've your father standing in front of you, no words can express your thoughts. I'm so glad we did Apne. I've never felt more relaxed in my life. This is the most wonderful period of my life.

Did you enjoy doing your last release Naqaab?
Yes I did. I had enjoyed working with Akshoo in Humraaz. I enjoyed it again in Naqaab. He is what he is. No naqabs there.

Why do you call him Akshoo?
I've to differentiate between the two Akshays. Khanna is Akshoo and Akshay Kumar is Akshay Bhaiyya. I don't meet them every day. We meet only the sets. We don't spend after -hours socializing. My free time is spent only with family and close friends who are mostly from outside the industry.

What family plans do the Deols have now?
We're trying to get more sorted out as producers. So yes, more home productions. We've burnt our fingers repeatedly as producers. Now we're trying to get more organized.

A sequel to Apne?
I don't think a sequel can happen. I don't think we can get a script like Apne again. Now my Dad, brother and I want to do a comedy together. But we need a great script. We've promised to make the audience laugh after making them cry in Apne. I knew Apne would work. A friend in Dubai called to say he hated me for making him cry.

So is Apne your favourite film?
Apne and Dillagi, in which my brother directed me and himself. The only reason I didn't enjoy my debut film Barsaat is because Mr. Raj Kumar Santoshi took forever to complete it. I think he should just work with my brother again. What next? Well after Nanhe I've another release coming up. It's Sangeeth Sivan's Ek. My co-star is Shreya Saran who I think is really good. She's such a good dancer. I'll be doing another film with her. Ek is remake of a Telugu actioner featuring Mahesh Babu. I haven't done an action film for a long time , and that too an action film with stylized stunts .

How does life look to you?
Really hectic. Even Roshan is almost ready. It may release this year. So I might have seven releases in 2007. I'm looking forward to the future. I don't have to hit bull's eye each time. But at least I should be happy doing what I'm doing.

Indra Kumar

2008-10-22T23:55:00.000-07:00

Indra Kumar at one point was a stage actor. He was in fact a comedian in Gujarati cinema. However, in 1983, Indra Kumar teamed up with his East Africa-based businessman Ashok Thakeria and formed the production house, 'Maruti International'. Mohabbat was their first joint production. He later turned director and churned out some brilliant films like Dil, Beta, Ishq and Mann.
Indra Kumar's forth coming film, Dhamaal is all set to release in the coming week.

Tell us about Dhamaal?
The title itself suggests the film is nothing but pure 'Dhamaal'. Dhamaal between Sanjay Dutt and four idiots who think they are very smart but are foolish to the core. They have some information that Sanju is trying to get out of them. And in this tussle dhaamal happens.

You are making only comedy films lately. Why not experiment with other genres?
What's wrong in comedy? I think people want entertainment now. They are fed up of watching actors crying, screaming and plotting against each other in Saas Bahu serials. Same goes for action films also, 'isko kata isko mara.' When people pay money they want to see something that eases off their tensions in life. I am planning to do films based on serious subjects also but it's too early to talk about it.

You and Mr. Ashok Thakeria have a great partnership since many years. How is your association with him?
Our association has been very good. Ashok and I enjoy working with each other. It's been a treat working with the kind of person that he is. There is more in our relationship than work. Moreover, we know each other inside out.

Sanjay and Arshad have been loved by the audiences as Munna and Circuit.
Don't you think their characters from Munnabhai can overshadow their characters in your film? No not at all. It has nothing to do with Munnabhai's characters. It didn't bother me at all. And as far as Sanju and Arshad are concerned, they have done justice to their characters in Dhamaal. They have definitely lived up to the expectations of my vision for the characters.

Will Sanjay Dutt's case affect the prospects of the film?
I don't think so. For a simple reason that people are not bothered about what actor is in real life. If audience feel that the film worth watching and good, they will definitely watch it.

Will Sanjay Dutt be present at the premiere?
God willing if all goes well then, we will have him at the premiere.

Tell me some funny incidents or memorable moments while shooting the film?
I don't recall any particular incident as such. But the making was full of fun. These guys were having a gala time, pulling each others leg. I don't know what they used to laugh about because I was away from them near the monitor and they used to be in front of cameras. And, these guys used to gossip and laugh all the time.

What do you think about the music of the film?
Music is really nice and I am very sure that once the film is liked by the people, the music will eventually be liked.

Which is your favourite track in the film?
There are four songs in the film and 'Miss India Martee Mujhpe' is my favourite one.

Is the film a complete family entertainer or caters only to adult audiences?
It's a complete family entertainer. Go, watch and have a complete Dhamaal.

Why should audiences go and watch for Dhamaal.
'Tension se jaan chudaani hai toh Dhamaal dekhiye.' Moreover, Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, Ashish Chaudhry and Javed Jaffrey are all great actors. So people would love to watch them together. All I can ask the audiences is to come and have a roller coaster ride. Enjoy the film and go home.

What are your expectations from Dhamaal?
That it becomes a blockbuster. What a mother expects from the child is what I am expecting from Dhamaal.

Shobana

2008-10-22T23:49:00.000-07:00

The promos of Apna Asman are moving. How would you describe the film?
For me it is a story of an urban middle class couple, very much in love but torn apart by the problems of their son. It is their struggle to find love, peace and happiness in a world where everybody is in a mad rush to be successful without realizing what's really good for them.

Your child seems to be suffering and you seem to be suffering along with him. How did you prepare yourself for this role?
Frankly, the script that came to me much in advance was in English and was very detailed. Moreover I play the role of a Keralite settled in Mumbai. So that made things simpler. And it didn't take me very long to get into the character that I was playing – I suppose with years of experience, it's not so difficult to play an Indian mother. Mitr, was also the suffering of a mother, in a different way – from loneliness.

Irrfan Khan's character seems to be more realistic and detached. This also seems to lead to a conflict. Can you comment on that?
You better ask the director that question…

What do you think about the title, Apna Asmaan?
When we started working on the film it was called Buddhi. I thought it was quite a cute name. Somewhere it got changed to Apna Asmaan. Well, I am not an expert in Hindi, but if the meaning is "One's own sky" it's quite appropriate for the film.

It's not a mainstream film. What do you think is its audience?
It's mainstream in its own way – more urban mainstream, I would say. Easy to relate to, sincere but not the song and dance type of mainstream. I suppose the audience will be the multiplex audience across India.

You have a knack of working in unconventional cinema like Mitr My Friend that won you a national award. Any specific reason for that?
I have done close to two hundred and thirty films (I think… keep forgetting!) so I now want to do films that are meaningful and with people with whom I can get along well.

How would you decsribe Irrfan Khan as a co-star and as an actor?
A very competent actor. A wonderful person to work with. Helpful too. Gifted me a book at the end of the shoot.

What do you think are your strengths as an actor?
That's for the audience to decide. You would know better.

Who are your role models? Is Shabana Azmi one of them?
Padmini, my aunt!

How is your stint with South Indian films going on?
I am being extremely choosy, therefore you may see more on stage dancing than on the screen.

Do you think the market of sensible cinema has a limited reach?
Yes, smaller than the mainstream. But I feel it is growing.

What are your future projects?
I am currently on a roadshow with my troupe across the US that will go on till October. This will be quite exhausting. Will make future plans after I return home.

Apna Asmaan is technically your first Hindi film, isn't it?
completely… also dubbed with my voice!

If that is so, then why is it that it took you so long to step into Bollywood as such?
Never really thought it was so important, that I have to work in Bollywood. I have been very busy in the South and have had the opportunity to work on great films with the best of directors. Moreover, my Dance has always been very important to me.

Your career shows that you have always chalked out a proper balance between mainstream and off-beat films. Apna Asmaan doesn't seem to be the so-called mainstream genre, isn't it?
Apna Asmaan as described by the director is Urban Mainstream. I feel it is pretty mass in its story appeal keeping in mind urban sensibilities in its treatment. Most people would be able to relate to Apna Asmaan but no, we don't run around trees singing songs!

What is the USP of the film according to you?
The cast. The story.

Film about parenting isn't a new phenomenon, so what makes Apna Asmaan different?
You said it... totally new concept. Quite unique actually.

Working with powerful actors like Rajat Kapoor, Anupam Kher and Irrfan must have been a terrific experience?
Both Irrfan and Rajat were great actors to work with. They were very nice and quite helpful when it came to my Hindi. Of course, I knew Anupamji quite well.

With Apna Asman wining accolades at various international festivals, would that mean you would be seen more often in Hindi films? A lot of experimentation is happening in Bollywood now, don't you think this is the right time for you to step in?
Let's see. May be after the film releases we will know.…

You did visit Kolkata for a dance show with Bickram Ghosh. When do we get to see you here next?
I am currently on a doing a huge programme across the US that will go on till October. This will be quite exhausting. Will make future plans after I return home. In fact, I will have to miss the premiere of Apna Asmaan because of this show. Pitty!

Viju Shah

2008-10-22T23:45:00.000-07:00

How was the experience working with Mr. Sadanah?
Sadanahji came to me and explained to me the whole concept. I haven't really read any part of the script. He explained to me the story and the kind of genre the songs needed. The whole experience was really fun and the idea behind making the remake was a challenging one indeed

How many songs are there in the movie?
There are two original tracks from the classic Victoria No. 203. Also we have added a romantic song sung by Shaan and Shreya. Besides, the signature tune of the original 'Victoria No. 203' will be a full-length song now sung by an international singer.

How different are the songs in this movie from the songs in the classic?
We have added extra tracks in the movie and the two classic songs 'Do Bechare Bina Sahare' and 'Thoda Sa Thehro' have been given new beats though they have the same original lyrics. We have given a whole modern sound to the songs also keeping in mind that we do not upset the old fans of the classic.

Shall we be hearing Jaaved Jaaffri's voice too in one of the song's?
Well, yes he is singing a funny song for his own evil character.

young men

2008-10-22T13:45:00.000-07:00

You have achieved what very few young men have in just seven years?
I don't know whether I can say that with all my confidence. I am satisfied but not really satisfied. I am happy with what I have achieved but I am not very happy because I know that this is just the beginning I have come some distance but I know I have miles and miles to go. I cannot stop now. Stopping can put a halt to my progress. I have to keep going on, marching and taking strides. I have developed a strange hunger to find more and more challenging roles and I have to satisfy that hunger if I have to stay alive and to grow as an actor. I am not going to withdraw at any stage because of any obstacles that can come in my way.

How would you describe your career at this stage?
Every stage is a very crucial stage for an actor but there are certain stages which are very delicate. The release of "Singh is Kinng" is not just important for me. It is a film that will be watched by the entire industry. But in my heart I know that this is one film that will play a very important part in deciding what shape my career will take from now on.

How significant is your role in the film?
It is undoubtedly a very significant role, easily the most significant role of my career. I have all the scope to prove myself as an actor. I have some of the best scenes, I have songs to sing, I have a dance and I have some of the most daring scenes. In one of the action scenes, I have jumped from the 71st floor of a building. I knew it was difficult and a do or die effort. I was advised to use a double but I decided to do it myself and once I decided I jumped and thanked God when everything went perfectly well, thanks to a very co-operative and helpful team which worked with me on the scene.

Let's leave all the excitement for a while, let us talk about your past, especially your stint in the south.
I don't want to describe my own position in the South. It is for the media and the people to pass judgement on me. But one thing I am sure about and that is I have been quite successful in films made in all the major languages in the South. I have made place for myself as a good actor looking for good roles in very good films directed by some very good directors. My experience in the South has instilled in me a great deal of confidence which I never had before. I have established myself as an actor. I have also imbibed certain qualities which will always be of use to me. But the best thing about working in the South is the sense of discipline which is a part of every member of the unit from the superstar to the spot boy. Discipline can make work simple, easy and good, I realized during my stay in the South

Have you tried to learn any languages of the South?
I have tried to learn Tamil and Telugu but have still to try the other languages. I understand the meanings, the spirit and the moods of the languages but learning to speak the languages perfectly is a full time job by itself.

You must have worked with all the leading actors and directors there.
Yes, I have worked with Nagarjuna, Mahesh Babu, Vijay, Vikram, Genelia D'Souza and above all I worked with the great Rajnikant in "Chandramukhi". Working with "Rajni Sir" was like working with an institution from which you can really learn so much and the most important thing to learn from a great man is humility. Never for a moment does he give you a feeling that he is a demi God worshipped by millions. Working with him was an experience I can never forget and will always cherish.

Where does a new actor get a chance to play leading role with living legend?
You must be having your own home and all the other comforts of life in Mumbai now.
By the grace God, I have a two bedroom hall flat, a shauffeur and other comforts. But I feel lonely at times and even feel sad. I wanted my mother to see all this. She had seen me in that hole of a room. She would have been delighted to see me in my own house. There is another incident I remember when I think about my mother. She was not very sure about what I was really doing till she saw me shooting for "Jodhaa Akbar". The scenes that were shot with me and the way treated on the sets made her very happy. I was waiting to show her entire film. But she went back to Punjab and three days later I was shocked beyond understanding when I was told that she was dead. I went home but there was no mother and no home without mother. Life had lost all meaning for me. Then after many days of thinking I decided to give all I could to my profession and work and grow into a better actor to give her soul all the satisfaction which I could not give her in life. I am whatever I am today all because of my mother's blessings and I am doing as well as I am because of her, Thank You, Maa.

Who are the directors you have loved working with?
I have always believed that the director is the captain. A great captain is the best thing to happen to a film and I have been very lucky to work with directors like Mani Ratnam, Ashutosh Gowariker and Anees Bazmee. I had also spoken with Rajshree who are making "Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi" and I have also loved working with some of the best directors of both the old and new generations. Watching and observing these directors at work is some kind of education by itself.

How would you describe yourself as an actor in demand now?
All I can say is that I have decided to work to the best of my ability and be a very good and hard working student learning to be a good actor all the time.
You write poetry and also maintain a dairy.
Poetry is the best way of expressing your own most private thoughts. I keep writing poetry whenever a subject inspires me. My dairy records my growth as an actor. It is my reference book whenever I have to know where I am heading as an actor.

Which are the films you are doing?
I am waiting to start work in a film called "Dhoondte Reh Jaoge" in which I am working with Paresh Rawal, Rajshree's "Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi", "Sahab Chai Pani" and I am talking to several other filmmakers who have offered me major roles in their films. I am concentrating on my characters and roles and will not sign any end and every film till I am fully satisfied.

Yash Raj

2008-10-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

You have been known as a great dreamer with the ability to give shape to and fulfill your dreams. Tell me, did you ever dream that you would be THE DR. CHOPRA when you started your career?
Frankly, no. I was a dreamer even in those early days I had some dreams but I could never imagine that my dreams would lead me to where I am today.

Then how did your story take shape? What made you the success story you are today, the man someone called the pride of India?
It is all the will and the blessings of God. I would be nowhere and be nothing. Next to God I feel it is my passion and my dedication, my honesty and sincerity to my work that has led me step by step. And, thank God nothing has changed in my attitude and approach to my work.

Will you recommend your attitude and approach to the younger filmmakers of today?
Who am I to recommend my ways or advice anyone to do whatever I have done? They have their own world, their own ideas and their own ways of working and getting work done. I can only talk about myself.

Everyone would like to know the secret of your success.
There is no secret at all. My life and my work are like open books. I only know that I have worked very hard on every little thing that I have done. I have let no temptation come in my way. I am doing whatever I am guided by own conscience which is guided by God and nothing can come between me and my God.

How do you feel after meeting with every success?
I become very alert and more conscious. I believe that my success is a single for me to work harder. My responsibility only grows with every success. I am not saying this for effect but I have never sat back and reveled in my success. Yes, success has given me a lot of satisfaction and happiness but I have never let success go to my head. I am aware of God watching every step I take. I know His power and that is enough to keep me going and reaching out towards new progress as long as He allows me to.

What do you think of these awards which adorn your showcase?
I feel very happy, naturally. I am a human being and I react to recognition like any other human being but the awards are also a source of inspiration which help me to work better, in coming up with something better that what I have done and has been recognized and appreciated for.

What did you think of the festival called "The World of Yash Chopra" conducted by Channel 4?
I humbly accepted it as a great honour for all of us Indian filmmaker. The festival showed my films and films directed by younger filmmaker under my banner to an entirely new audience. We at Yash Raj Films are making all out efforts to make all films reach a global market. We have been succeeding and this festival gave a greater boost to our efforts.

Did you participate in the festival?
The only way I participated was by talking about my films and my banner. I did not go to London because there was so much work to be done here. I was very happy about the festival and am happy with the reaction of a new audience to our films. It helped us in planning our next moves.

There is talk about Yash Raj Films going for the big kill by making ten films at a time.
It is impossible to make ten films at the same time and do justice to them. Yes, we are making films on a regular basis. We are planning some other films with some new directors but it is still too early to talk about them now.

What about directing your next film which people are as usual waiting for eagerly?
What will I do? Where else can I go? I have to direct my own film. I have had my hands and mind full with all kinds of activities. But there is an idea taking shape in my mind. I will complete working on the idea and then give it to some good writers to work on. But where are the good writers? The lack of good writers is one of the greatest problems of this industry. Sometimes I feel shocked at what I call the intellectual bankruptcy in our industry. It was never like this before.

What did you think about Aditya Chopra's "Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge" running in its eleventh year at the Maratha Mandir in Mumbai?
I feel very happy for Adi who has created such an extraordinary record with his very first film as a director. It is a very proud achievement for both father and son. It speaks volumes for Adi's abilities and what he can do in the future.

Your company has had some of the most serious setbacks in during the recent months. Your comments.
Every company has to face its share of ups and downs. We tried our best to make every film the best film, but what can we do before the mighty power of the voice of the people? We have accepted their verdict and have learned our lessons to face the challenges of the future.

Don't you think the title of your next film, 'Bachna Ae Haseeno' is some kind of a symbolic self warning to your company?
We have taken every failure as a warning. We have made this film too after taking all the precautions. It is a very important film for the young artists, Ranbir, Deepika and Minissha, but it is also a very important film for us and I hope the film is a grand success for the good of all of us.

How do you feel sitting in this new and elegant office designed for you?
It is a perfect atmosphere to dream some of my best dreams for the future, what else can I say?