Faridoon Shahryar's Blog


Tuesday, January 29, 2013

SRK To Launch TOIFA In Mumbai Today Jan 29

Shahrukh Khan will be addressing the media at the launch press conference of TOIFA in Mumbai today January 29, 2013. It will be an eagerly anticipated media event considering that Shahrukh is in the middle of a raging controversy right now. 

Shahrukh Need Not Be A Silent Spectator And Yes He BELONGS to India

I am not exactly a Shahrukh Khan fan even though I find him extremely compassionate each time that I have met him. There is something genuinely nice and simple about him. Being away from Twitter gives me the luxury of rising up to controversial news items a bit late in the day. I am fine with that. Now, when I read this silly write up on the so called Muslim-Victimhood card allegedly played by Shahrukh in an article in a magazine, I was simply appalled. (http://m.firstpost.com/bollywood/kingvictimhood-shah-rukh-khan-biteshand-that-fed-him-603618.html?page=2). The easiest thing to do is to misjudge Shahrukh's thoughts out-of-context. And yes, it is true that being a Muslim, life is most certainly tough in India. 

I have stopped travelling in train from Mumbai to New Delhi as we have faced relentless jibes the moment it is disclosed that we are having a Muslim name. If some zealots cause mayhem  at Azaad Maidaan, one has to be constantly on guard against insensitive taunts. Narendra Modi's 'efficacy' is hammered in the face now and then. The intention is not to laud Modi's management skills, the intention is to rub it in your face...that's how 'you guys' ought to be disciplined. Urdu is a beautiful language but it has been obfuscated out of the country in a planned manner by labeling it as a 'Muslim' language. Urdu is such an intrinsic part of Punjabi culture but gradually it is dying there too. During my childhood, in a Pakistan-England cricket match for example, I used to support England. During an India-Pakistan match, obviously my loyalties were with India. But as the time went by, during an India-Pakistan match, it is assumed that I must be sympathetic towards Pakistan and hoping for 'them' to win. I have stopped justifying my loyalties. I don't discuss an India-Pakistan match with friends any more. I don't want to appease anyone. 

My father's great grandfather was a Rajput Hindu who later converted to Islam. We've been brought up in an extremely secular atmosphere. My mother excitedly watched all the episodes of Mahabharat and Ramayan on television and lauded Krishna's teaching on 'Karma'. I don't support the ghetto mentality of Muslims in India. They need to constantly keep making efforts at becoming part of the mainstream. Many are making that effort but much more reassurance is needed. Muslims should not be expected to prove their loyalty at every small instance. Much more steps are needed to step up the confidence building measures. 

Talking about the silly write up by Venky Vembu, the headline in itself is condescending and patronising. When Vembu says, 'King of Victimhood: Shah Rukh Khan bites the hand that fed him', he needs to make a correction. It is not the 'hand that fed him'. The man has 'earned' his place under the sun. Objectively speaking, if you travel to any part of the world today, there are many people who know India because of Shahrukh Khan. I have interacted with his fans from Peru, Belgium, Germany, Japan, Korea, Middle East, US, UK, Australia, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt and many other countries. Many of them are NOT Asians. They don't understand Hindustani but still they love Shahrukh Khan unconditionally. In turn they end up loving India because that's where Khan is from and that's where he Belongs. 

It is time everyone realises that India is a pluralistic society. India is a democracy where everyone has a right to speak out their mind. It is most certainly not fair to constantly put a group of people into corner and relentlessly make them feel guilty. Shahrukh Khan may have messed up in his personal matters last year but he has every right in the world to express his concerns on national issues rather than being a silent spectator. 

Monday, January 28, 2013

Priyanka To Launch Song Video From In My City Tomo Jan 29

Priyanka Chopra will launch the song and video of her music album In My City at an event in Bombay tomorrow January 29, 2013.

"Akshay Deserves A National Award For Special 26": Anupam Kher

"Akshay lends a kind of credibility to Special 26 in terms of being a huge star that he is. He brings his own stardom to the film. Having said that, he is not part of the film as a star, he reinvents himself as an actor. We worked together as a team," said Anupam Kher in an interview with me recently. Anupam also affirmed that Akshay Kumar deserves a National Award for his performance in Special 26. 

Friday, January 25, 2013

Akshay Kumar To Flag Off Marathon In Jaipur On January 27, 2013

Akshay Kumar will flag off the marathon in Jaipur on Sunday January 27, 2013. Kumar will follow it up with a press conference to promote his upcoming film 'Special Chabbees'. 

Aamir Khan To Launch Satyamev Jayate DVD On Republic Day, 2013

Aamir Khan will launch The DVD of His TV series Satyamev Jayate on the occasion of Republic Day (January 26, 2013) at Ahmednagar in Maharashtra where he will also be inaugurating the Satyamev Jayate Bhavan for Snehalya. This Bhavan promises to be the biggest shelter for the girl child and women in India. 

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

"I'm Not Planning On Making Don 3 As Of Now": Farhan Akhtar

"You are asked a question but your answer is completely convoluted and comes out as something else," said Farhan Akhtar in an interview with me a few days back regards to the false reports in the media that Akhtar is planning Don 3. In fact Farhan has said in an interview that he is more keen on working on something original. "But that doesn't make for a headline. I was asked if I am doing Don 3, so I replied that if I ever get a story that's exciting, I'll do it. It automatically becomes (in the media) that I am doing Don 3 when I find a story, I don't know what that means. I am not planning on making Don 3 as of now," Farhan confirmed. 

Shankar Ehsaan Loy To Compose Music For Two States

"Zinda Hai To (Bhaag Milkha Bhaag) is a proud moment for me as it has been sung by my son," said Shankar Mahadevan in an interview with me recently. "Many people say that he does sound like me but he has a very different voice. When you listen to the whole song you'll come to know," Shankar said. What about Prasoon Joshi's wonderful lyrics? "Unbelievable."

Shankar Ehsaan Loy are also doing the background score for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. SEL are also doing music for Two States, Vishwaroopam, One by Two among other films. Ehsaan promised that in 2013 they shall be offering something diametrically new and different from what they've done previously.  

Karishma Kapoor Launches Healthy Alternatives, Health food section at Godrej Nature’s Basket


"I've Never Been Really Into Too Much Make Up": Kareena Kapoor

"I have never been really into too much make up. I am very comfortable just putting Kajal in my eyes and going to parties and events. So many times people will see me like that. It's not that I have to be in complete make up coming in and out of airports. There's something raw about a woman like that," said Kareena Kapoor on why she prefers less make up in an interview with me a few days back. 

"Goodbye Size Zero, Time To Get My Curves Back": Kareena Kapoor

A statement by Kareena Kapoor in the book: Kareena Kapoor: The Style Diary Of A Bollywood Diva:

I had made my decision that I will put on weight. I made my second big decision that I would become my ideal perfect size, so goodbye size zero. It's time to get my curves back. 

In an interview with me a few days back, this is what Kareena said on this statement: "Size zero was a different time. That was for Tashan. Now the times have changed. You can't constantly be a model size figure. I am an Indian Punjabi girl. I enjoy eating. I am fit and healthy. I am happy being more curvaceous now," said Kareena.  

Five Super Foods Of Kareena Kapoor

In the book, 'Kareena Kapoor: The Style Diary Of A Bollywood Diva', Kareena lists her five super foods:

1) Peanuts
2) Single polished rice
3) Yoghurt
4) Seasonal fruits
5) Home made ghee


"The Style Diary Of A Bollywood Diva Is A Payback To My Fans": Kareena Kapoor

"Lots of actors are approached for a book or a story. Most actors when they write their autobiography its about the struggle to the top, a lot to do with their career, emotional upheavals, but when Shobha De called me and told me that she wants to write a book on me. I was not sure if it was the right time. She said it is not going to be about your life, it is going to be a style diary," said Kareena Kapoor in an interview with me about the first book written on her called 'Kareena Kapoor: The Style Diary Of A Bollywood Diva'. "It is something very different, very edgy, something offtrack, something that every girl would want to read. A lot of my fans want to know fashion tips, diet tips. This is a kind of payback to my fans who want to know what she eats, what she wears and straight from the heart. This is catering to young girls who've made me what I am," Kareena said. 

Monday, January 21, 2013

Karisma To Launch 'Healthy Alternatives' From Nature's Basket Tomo Jan 22

Karisma Kapoor will launch the Healthy Alternatives section of Godrej Nature's Basket at an event in Bombay tomorrow January 22. Well known nutritionist Anjali Mukherji will also be present at the occasion. 

Priyanka To Launch Audio Of Deewana Main Deewana Tomo Jan 22

Priyanka Chopra will release the audio of her long pending film Deewana Main Deewana (which has been directed by K C Bokadia) tomorrow January 22 at an event in Bombay. Priyanka is paired with Govinda in the film who is not too keen on promoting the film since it has a dated feel. 

"Me And Ranbir Are In A Lovely Space Today": Deepika Padukone

"A lot of people tell me that the way in which we (Ranbir and me) have conducted ourselves post our break up is something that people admire, look up to and take a cue from," said Deepika Padukone in an interview with me a few days back. "Our side it was not a conscious decision that people are watching us and so we have to behave in a certain way. I think it is just the way we feel for each other. I think there is a lot of respect that we feel for each other. We are also doing a film together, in fact that's the reason why we are doing a film together because that's the past. There is no negativity or ill feeling for each other. We are in a lovely space today where we can work with each other," Deepika concluded.  

"I Love My Work, I Enjoy What I Do": Deepika Padukone

In an interview with me a few days back, Deepika Padukone answered the question and a compliment of a fan Nayantara from USA.

N: We love and support you unconditionally. You have achieved so much success in such a short time. How do you remain humble and grounded? You are my role model and inspiration. Always remain as perfect as you are.

DP: Thank you. That for me is a big compliment. I have always believed that you can achieve all the success in the world but if you are not humble and grounded and if you are not a good human being (this is what my dad taught me) and that's something that I will always be. I believe the success is there today, it may not be there tomorrow. The success that I have achieved is the part of what I do. But that's not my reason of being here. I love my work, I enjoy what I do. The large part of it is fame and success. 

Deepika Padukone On Gossipy Speculative Stories In Tabloids

In an interview with me a few days back, Deepika Padukone answered my query on speculative gossipy stories about her link-ups and this is what Padukone said, "You learn to deal with it after a point of time. It becomes a part of the routine of waking up the morning thinking that there may be something in the papers about me, true or untrue. It becomes a part of your system. Sometimes you react, sometimes you don't."  

"Elena Is A Very Manipulative Girl": Deepika Padukone


In an interview with me a few days back, I took the question of a fan called Vishakha:

Do you as Deepika and Elena (your character in Race 2) have any similarities? 

DP: Not at all, apart from the intelligence (laughs). Elena is a very manipulative girl who uses her beauty and charm to get her way. She is also shrewd and intelligent and I am not like that at all. I believe I am very upfront and honest person. 

Sachin Tendulkar To Launch The Music Of Asha Bhosle's Mai Tomo Jan 22

Sachin Tendulkar will launch the music of 'Mai' which is Asha Bhosle's debut film as an actress tomorrow January 22 at a five star hotel in Mumbai. An interesting choice of celebrity for sure. 

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Anushka Sharma To Launch Femina's 10 Most Beautiful Actresses

Femina will launch India's 10 Most Beautiful Women with Anushka Sharma tomorrow January 21, 2013 at an event in Bombay. Music composer Sneha Khanwalkar will also be present at this event. 

Salman At CCL Opening Ceremony

Friday, January 18, 2013

Shankar Ehsaan Loy Performing At Channel V Nokia Fest, Jan 18, 2013

My Idea Of Partying In Goaaaa!!!

Dino Morea To Act In A Film Helmed By Vishesh Films?

In an interview with me a short while back, Dino Morea cleared the air on the speculation and rumours that he may be a part of Raaz 4 as the main lead. Morea said that he may be working with Vishesh Films as an actor but there's no clarity about the film. Dino is here in Goa to judge the Campus Stud competition at Channel V Nokia Fest, 2013. Morea also agreed that there were more people who didn't like Jism 2 than the ones who liked it. He is having three films as a producer and he is not the co producer of Jism 3.

Sent from my iPad

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

"Kochadaiyaan Will Be Available In Tamil, Hindi, English, Japanese...": Deepika Padukone

"Kochadaiyaan is made in different languages. It is an international film coming out of India. That's the way we are going to be presenting it. A lot of people are having this misconception that it is a Tamil film. Yes, the film will also be available in Tamil but it is also a film that will be available in various languages like English, Hindi, Tamil, Japanese and two three more languages. The important thing is this is that it is going to be presented as an international film," said Deepika Padukone in an interview with me recently where she spoke about the eagerly awaited film Kochadaiyaan opposite Rajinikanth. 

"If Kick Came To Me, I'd Love To Do It": Deepika Padukone

"I haven't been offered Kick yet. It is too soon to be talking about that. I would love to work with Salman," said Deepika Padukone in an interview with me recently. When I quoted a newspaper interview of Deepika where she had stated that Salman was the first one to offer her a movie, this is what Deepika said, "Yes that's true. But there's nothing on the Kick front in particular." But I'm sure you'd love to do it, I asked. "If it came to me of course I'd love to do it."

"I Am Definitely More Active On Twitter": Deepika Padukone

In an interview with Deepika Padukone, I have taken a few questions from some of the fans. As we were about to start the fan questions, Deepika said laughingly, "The first question will be why am I not on twitter as often as they would like me to be." Your fans call themselves Crazens and many have said that you ought to be more regular. In fact in one of my interviews you'd said that you'd be more regular on twitter. "From last year I am definitely more active." But there are other actresses who tweet far often. "Compared to other actresses, I'm not but I'm little better, no...," Deepika enquired. Now this is for the fans to decide I guess.  

"I Hope I Live Up To All The Expectations": Deepika Padukone

"I hope I love up to it. It's a lovely feeling that post Cocktail, I'm doing such wonderful films, be it Yeh Jawaani Hai Diwani, Chennai Express, Kochadiyaan, Ram Lila and yes there are a lot of expectations but I hope I live up to it," said Deepika Padukone in an interview with me recently in response to a question that whether 2013 will redefine her persona since she has some very big films lined up. 

First Look Promo Of RGV's The Attacks Of 26/11 Will Be Launched Tomo Jan 17

The first look promo launch of Ram Gopal Varma's 'The Attacks Of 26/11' will be held in Bombay tomorrow January 17, 2013. The invite says that this is RGV's "Most emotional film yet". 

"Shahrukh Was Really Cool": Dabboo Ratnani

"Katrina's Picture Is Very Trendy, It's Very Slick": Dabboo Ratnani

"Aishwarya's Face Is Looking Absolutely Stunning": Dabboo Ratnani

"Hrithik Looks Like A Fighter To Me": Dabboo Ratnani

"Bipasha Is Looking Really Hot And Sexy": Dabboo Ratnani

"It's A New Alia That I'm Seeing": Dabboo Ratnani

Neil Nitin Mukesh, Vinay And Vikram's Fun Musical Exclusive

Imran Khan On Ranbir, OUATIM 2, Milan Talkies, Film With Aamir, Punit's Film

"Mr Bachchan, SRK, Kajol Value Their Technicians": Dabboo Ratnani

Imran Khan's Exclusive On Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola

"Amitabh Is The Emperor, I'm Just A King": Rajinikanth

Sarika's Must Watch Exclusive Interview

"I'm Very Happy With My Item Numbers": Mamta Sharma

"Shahrukh Feels I'm A Gifted Artiste": Dabboo Ratnani

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Music Launch Of Special Chabbees In Bombay Tomorrow Jan 16

The music launch of Neeraj Pandey's Special Chabbees will be held in Bombay tomorrow. Akshay Kumar, Anupam Kher and other members of the crew will be present for the event.  

"The Way They Censor Stuff On TV Is Ridiculous": Imran Khan

"The way they censor stuff on television is ridiculous," said Imran Khan in an interview with me recently on the reasons why Delhi Belly hasn't had a television premiere yet. "It is impossible to watch television any more. The level of censorship has gone out of control," Imran concluded. 

"Milan Talkies Is A Classic Romantic Film": Imran Khan

"Priyanka and I have been having near misses for about three years now. Various projects would come up and we would almost work together and then not. Finally with Milan Talkies it seems it will finally take off," said Imran Khan in an interview with me recently. "Milan Talkies will start in the latter part of this year. It is such a beautiful script. It is a throwback to the classic romantic films rather than a rom com. I had committed to doing Milan Talkies before OUATIM 2," Imran added. 

Will Release Date Of OUATIM 2 Be Shifted?

There had been talks that Salman Khan's film directed by Sohail Khan and Akshay Kumar's Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai 2 will be clashing on Eid 2013. In an interview with me recently, this is what Imran said on if the release date of OUATIM 2 may be shifted, "I have absolutely no idea on that. That ultimately is for smarter people than me to decide." But don't be surprised if there's a solo release on Eid this year. 

"Akshay Kumar Is A Remarkably Chilled Out Guy": Imran Khan

"Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai 2 is a period film set in eighties. The style of story telling, acting becomes different because one is trying to fit into that era," said Imran Khan in an interview with me recently. "The big surprise for me is that what an easy going and fun set it is. With a director like Milan Luthria and star like Akshay Kumar, I was expecting to be a little intimidated on the sets. But all the guys are so chilled out. Akshay Kumar in particular. He is a remarkably chilled out guy. You don't get a sense of what a big star he is. He is a very cool guy," Imran added.  

"Comparisons With Ranbir Will Happen For The Rest Of My Career": Imran Khan

"I realise comparisons with Ranbir will happen for the rest of my career," said Imran Khan in an interview with me recently. "To this day guys like Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan are compared after even so many years, what hope do I have," Imran added. 

Imran Khan's Film With Punit Malhotra, Kareena To Start In March 2013

"I am really looking forward to that film because it will be the first time that I am repeating a film with a director, first time I am repeating a heroine which is Kareena," said Imran Khan in an interview with me recently. Khan said there's no title for the film and the schedule for it will start in March, 2013. 

Monday, January 14, 2013

Aishwarya's Shot For Dabboo's 2013 Calendar Was Canned At JW Mariott Hotel, Mumbai

In an interview with me today Dabboo Ratnani said that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's shot was for his 2013 calendar was canned at a suite in J W Marriott Hotel in Mumbai. Dabboo said that they had around 12 minutes of natural light seeping through the window and they decided to merge it with their own lights. Ratnani had mentioned about the shoot to Ash during the Diwali celebrations itself. 

"Salman's Shot For 2013 Calendar Was Done At Mill Near Bigg Boss House": Dabboo Ratnani

In an interview with me today, Daboo Ratnani said that there is a certain side of Salman Khan that the world is not aware of. Dabboo said that one of his close friends handles the merchandising for Being Human and how Salman ensures that the entire money out of it goes for charity. Ratnani while talking about his shoot with Khan for the 2013 calendar said that they shot at a mill near the Bigg House in Lonavla and he utilised both the natural as well as his own lights for the shoot. 

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Send Questions For Deepika Padukone

I am doing an interview with Deepika Padukone tomorrow January 14. Send in your questions at faridoonshahryar@gmail.com or post it in the comments section below. 

Friday, January 11, 2013

Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola: Were You Guzzling On Gulabo Mr Bharadwaj?

Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola is one of the silliest films I've seen in a long time. If this is Vishal Bhardwaj's idea of Commy-Entertainment then thank you very much and get over the Gulabo that you must have been guzzling on through the making of this waste of a film. Ironically, Pankaj Kapoor is brilliant in this boring drab film that effortlessly lulls you to sleep. Obviously Vishal loves Kapoor and he has kept some of the best moments reserved for one of the most under praised actors in Indian cinema. 

Matru is another Chakravyuh with the colour red ruling the roost. The sad plight of the farmers, the forced land acquisition, the wily politician (Shabana Azmi makes villainy look so sexy), the marriage of mutual benefit and a world of never ending hallucinations that murders your patience endlessly. Now, with all the good intentions in place, all that the marketing machinery harped upon was Anushka Sharma's 'Dekho Magar Pyaar Se' undies and kachcha banyan dialoguebaazi. Yes Imran and Anushka give kissing-on-screen believability as its devoid of inhibitions. Obviously the makers must be hoping that the 'masses' will help them salvage the weekend through these sleaze-tricks. 

The biggest shortcoming of MKBKM is an absolute lack of entertainment. You are promised great music in a Vishal Bharadwaj film but that's shockingly missing out here. Except for the title track, none of the songs work. Khamakha is nice but then it meanders into an abstract boring territory. Oye Boy Charlie is just about Ok. Vishal's weird fixation with Africans continues. What's the big idea mate? 

I can go on and on dissecting and tearing apart the film but it's a waste of time. This movie is having no direction and it's surely not going anywhere. Don't bother. 

Star Rating: * (Only for Pankaj Kapoor) 

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

"Playing Shahrukh's Doctor Is Always An Exciting...": Sarika

"I never spoke about it (Jab Tak Hai Jaan), everyone was surprised. People liked the character of Dr Khan," said Sarika in an interview with me recently. "Playing Shahrukh Khan's doctor is always an exciting thought but I did this project only for Yash uncle," Sarika said. Damadum Mast Kalandar from David is a song that's making its presence felt and Sarika is seen enjoying herself in the number.

Aishwarya To Be Present At Filmfare Awards Press Con Tomorrow January 9, 2013

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will be present at the press conference of Filmfare Awards in Bombay tomorrow January 9, 2013. Aishwarya has rarely made a public appearance in the recent times and this will be the first time that she will be answering the media queries since the delivery of Aradhya. The Bachchans had boycotted Filmfare Awards a couple of years back in protest against gossip stories (about Aishwarya) that were published in Mumbai Mirror, a Times Group tabloid. 

"I'll Definitely Be There At The Launch Of Dabboo's Calendar": Salman Khan

"Best of luck for the Calendar. I'll definitely be there (at the launch)," said Salman Khan in the making video of his shot for Dabboo ratnani's 2013 Calendar. "It's always a pleasure working with Dabboo especially after making him drive to Panvel for two days," Salman added. Khan could be seen interacting with Ratnani's daughter Myrah in an extremely lovable manner. Now, Shahrukh has confirmed earlier that he will be present at the Calendar launch and now Salman too has made it clear that he will be present at the launch party as well. 

Monday, January 7, 2013

Big B To Launch 1st Look Promo Of Jolly LLB On Jan 8

Mr Bachchan will launch the first look promo of Jolly LLB T an event in Bombay tomorrow January 8, 2013. Film's actors Boman Irani and Arshad Warsi will be present at the event. 

"People Created A Rift Betweem R D Burman And His Wife"

Ranbir Kapoor To Be At Screen Awards Press Con Today; Awards On Jan 12

Ranbir Kapoor will be present at a press conference of Screen Awards in Mumbai today. The Awards season has just begun. Screen Awards Will Be Held on January 12th. 

Friday, January 4, 2013

"Watch Out For Me Looking Like An Angel": Deepika Padukone

"Watch out for me looking like an angel," said Deepika Padukone about her shot for Dabboo Ratnani's 2013 Calendar in the sneak peek video of Dabboo's 2013 Calendar. Deepika has had a wonderful 2012. Even though she starred only in one film (Cocktail) but her performance was appreciated. She has some big films lined up in 2013. 

"Hrithik Faced The Camera For The First Time With...": Dabboo Ratnani

In an interview with me today Dabboo Ratnani said that Hrithik Roshan was as involved in the shoot for Dabboo's 2013 Calendar shoot as he was in his first ever professional shoot (which was shot by Dabboo). "Hrithik faced the camera for the first time when he did his first ever photoshoot with me," recalled Dabboo. 

The Twenty Four Celebrities In Dabboo Ratnani's 2013 Calendar Are...

The twenty four celebrities that are being featured in Dabboo Ratnani's 2013 Calendar are:

1) Salman Khan
2) Shahrukh Khan
3) Amitabh Bachchan
4) Ashwarya Rai Bachchan
5) Katrina Kaif
6) Priyanka Chopra
7) Ranbir Kapoor
8) Asin
9) Kajol
10) Arjun Rampal
11) Akshay Kumar
12) Abhishek Bachchan
13) Varun Dhawan
14) Alia Bhatt
15) Sonakshi Sinha)
16) Farhan Akhtar
17) Kareena Kapoor
18) Hrithik Roshan
19) John Abraham
20) Anushka Sharma
21) Vidya Balan
22) Bipasha Basu
23) Ajay Devgn
24) Deepika Padukone 

Shahrukh Shot For Dabboo Ratnani's 2013 Calendar On The Sets Of Chennai Express In Wai

In an interview with me a short while back, Dabboo Ratnani said that his 2013 Calendar shoot with Shahrukh Khan is probably his best ever. Dabboo shot with Shahrukh on the sets of 'Chennai Express' in Wai. 

Dabboo Ratnani Shot With Salman Today Morning For His 2013 Calendar

In an interview with me today, Dabboo Ratnani disclosed that he shot with Salman Khan in the morning today January 4 for his 2013 Calendar. Salman was at his farm house in Panvel yesterday and he promised to shoot for Dabboo on the way to the Bigg Boss house. 

"Aishwarya's Picture In My 2013 Calendar Is To Die For": Dabboo Calendar

In an interview with me a short while back, Dabboo Ratnani said that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's picture in his 2013 calendar is "to die for." Aishwarya looks stunning and glamorous. She seems to be back in great shape. Aishwarya has been a part of Dabboo's calendar since the first one was launched in 2000. 

Shahrukh Confirms His Presence At Dabboo Ratnani's 2013 Calendar Launch

I saw the sneak peek of Dabboo Ratnani's 2013 Calendar a short while back. Shahrukh gave his byte for this sneak peek holding Dabboo's daughter's hand against the backdrop of a lake and hills. Shahrukh confirmed in his byte that he will be present at the launch of Dabboo's 2013 Calendar on January 8 or 9. 

Thursday, January 3, 2013

1st Look Promo Of Ek Thi Daayan With Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola

The first look promo of Emraan Hashmi's Ek Thi Daayan will be coming with Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola on January 11, 2012. Ek Thi Daayan also stars Kalki, Huma Qureshi and Konkana Sensharma. 

Five Hours Of Conversations On R D Burman To Be Announced On The 18th Death Anniversary On Jan 4, 2012

Pancham Unmixed, a documentary on R D Burman by Brahmanand Singh has earned a lot of acclaim in India as well as abroad. Singh is now ready with Beyond Pancham Unmixed, five hours of conversations on R D Burman that were not included in the earlier documentary. He is ready to announce about the same on the 18th death anniversary of R D on January 4th. In an interview with me yesterday, Singh said that the five hours of conversations will probe deeper into the personal life of Burman, his failed marriage with Rita Patel. Singh discloses that Patel could have been a good manager for RD since he was not good with handling his personal and professional matters but somehow people close to Burman (with vested interests) may have been responsible in causing a rift between the married couple. 

Singh also disclosed that when Burman went to UK for his open heart surgery, he was all alone. There was no one with him. Somehow he was hinting at how Asha Bhosle had drifted away from RD during his bad times. A close associate of RD called Swapan is considered to be a big reason for the downfall of the maestro and Beyond Pancham Unmixed dissects the same. 

R D Burman, at his peak, was doing 15-20 films in a year. Someone who was so prolific must have had his 'inspirations' which RD did and admitted as well. Beyond Pancham Unmixed talks about that. Singh unconvincingly told me that many of the 'inspired' songs of RD like Chura Liya Hai Tumne or Mahbooba Mahbooba from Sholay were better versions than the original. 

Brahmanand also told me that a big filmmaker has expressed a keen interest in making a feature film on the life and magic of R D Burman. Well, there is enough drama, great talent, a childlike passion for music and many wonderful stories about the great man that will most certainly make for a gripping film. As of now, Beyond Pancham Unmixed must be something to watch out for. 

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

Dabboo's 2013 Calendar To Be Launched On Jan 8 or 9, Press Con On Jan 4

The biggest attraction at the beginning of every year is the launch of acclaimed photographer Dabboo Ratnani's Calendar featuring the biggest names in Bollywood. In 2013, the calendar launch is slated for January 8 or 9. For the first time (since the launch of his calendar many years back) Dabboo is organising a press conference at a prime hotel in Bombay on January 4 to brief the media about who all celebrities are being featured in the 2013 Calendar, what went behind the shoots and what's the theme for the current year. A sneak peek video of the Calendar featuring various stars will also be unveiled on Jan 4. 

"Jo Jal Rahen, Fikar Mat Karo": Salman Khan