A rare peek into Superstar ShahRukh Khan's life!

India's leading lifestyle channel Discovery Travel & Living presents Living With A Superstar, an engaging series on the country's biggest superstar Shah Rukh Khan. In this unique television format, for the first time ever, viewers are being taken into the private and exclusive world of Shah Rukh Khan. For a year, cameras have shadowed Shah Rukh in India and across the globe, to present viewers with a rare peek into the life of the superstar and an once-in-a-lifetime viewing experience.

The 10-part series LIVING WITH A SUPERSTAR - SHAH RUKH KHAN premiered on February 26th. Rahul Johri, senior vice president and general manager - India, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, said "Discovery Travel & Living has always set the highest production benchmarks. With this groundbreaking series on India's biggest superstar Shah Rukh Khan, we are surpassing all established definitions of lifestyle entertainment.

Shah Rukh Khan said, "The idea of the series format is both exhilarating and unique as it showcases aspects of my life that have seldom been seen in the public domain. I look forward to welcoming you all into my life."

You will experience Shah Rukh's complete life - family and vacation time; relationships with his kids, wife, sister and friends; unique filmmaking process and approach; time management and being switched on 24x7; brand power; interactions with fans and staff; IPL venture; life outside India, his castle Mannat and Shahrukhisms.

Discovery Travel & Living has commissioned Red Chillies Idiot Box to produce the series. Says Pranjal Khandhdiya, non fiction head, "We at Red Chillies Idiot Box have attempted to create a show which befits the stature of 'King Khan' and surpasses Channel's stringent production standards. Directed by critically acclaimed director Samar Khan, the series redefines the art of documentary making. It allows the television viewers to be a part of the superstar's life and witness the most private & personal moments from his daily routine."

The forthcoming episodes will highlight Shahrukh Khan's IPL experience, Shahrukh as brand ambassador for products, his film MY NAME IS KHAN, his travelling, his home Mannat, his teams which work for him, his way of acting and his vision & future plans.

Uday Chopra is depressed

After his last film PYAAR IMPOSSIBLE tanked at the box-office, Uday Chopra has been feeling low for a while now. Though Uday spent more than a month in the US trying to recover from this rude shock, but the depression on his face is still written large.

Buzz is that Uday has taken the failure of PYAAR IMPOSSIBLE a tad too seriously. He was not only an actor but also a producer of the film too. So, the flop has really affected him in a big way.

According to sources, Uday is making all attempts to regain the lost ground and make better decisions in the future. Well, let's hope Uday finally finds the magic formula to break the hit formula sooner before he gets more depressed.

Nominations for Max Stardust Awards 2010

Here is the list of nominations of the 2010 Max Stardust Awards.

Who all do you think will win? and which movie should win the best film?

Make your choices in the comments section below.

Superstar Of Tomorrow - Male
Ranbir Kapoor - Wake Up Sid & Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani
Imraan Khan - Luck
Farhan Akhtar - Luck By Chance
Neil Nitin Mukesh - New York
Harman Baweja - What's Your Raashee?

Superstar Of Tomorrow - Female
Deepika Padukone - Love Aaj Kal
Sonam Kapoor - Delhi 6
Isha Sharvani - Luck By Chance
Mugdha Godse - Jail
Asin - London Dreams

Breakthrough Performance - Male
Abhimanyu Singh - Gulaal
Chandan Roy Sanyal - Kaminey
Parzan Dastur - Sikandar
Amol Gupte - Kaminey
Adhyayan Suman - Raaz -The Mystery Continues
Cyrus Broacha - 99

Breakthrough Performance - Female
Chitrashi Rawat - Luck
Urvashi Sharma - Baabarr
Shahana Goswami - Firaaq
Gauhar Khan - Rocket Singh - Salesman Of The Year
Mugdha Godse - All The Best
Kalki Koechlin - Dev D
Bhavna Pani - Fast Forward
Kulraj Randhawa - Chintuji

Hottest Film Of The Year
Paa
All The Best
Love Aaj Kal
Gulaal
Quick Gun Murugan

Hottest New Director
Renzil D'Silva - Kurbaan
Anthony D'Souza - Blue
Ayaan Mukherjee - Wake Up Sid
Prabhu Devaa - Wanted
Zoya Akhtar - Luck By Chance

Exciting New Face
Shazahn Padamsee - Rocket Singh - Salesman Of The Year
Giselle Monteiro - Love Aaj Kal
Jacqueline Fernandez - Aladin
Shruti Hassan - Luck

Standout Performance By A Music Director
Amit Trivedi - Dev D
RDB - Kambakkht Ishq
Piyush Mishra - Gulaal
Sharib -Toshi - Raaz -The Mystery Continues & Jashnn
Sohail Sen - What's Your Raashee?
Bappa Lahiri - Jai Veeru

Standout Performance By A Lyricist
Amitabh Bhattacharya - Emosional Atyachar - (Dev D)
Sandeep Shrivastava - Mere Sang Toh Chal Zaraa - (New York)
Shellee - Dhol Yaara Dhol - (Dev D)
Subrat Sinha - Piya Jaise Ladoo - (Radio)

New Musical Sensation - Male
Mohit Chauhan - Masakali - (Delhi 6)
Mohit Chauhan - Dooriyan - (Love Aaj Kal)
Amit Trivedi - Emosional Atyachar - (Dev D)
Tochi Raina - Pardesi - (Dev D)
Suraj Jagan - Give Me Some Sunshine - (3 Idiots)
Toshi - Maahi - (Raaz -The Mystery Continues)

New Musical Sensation - Female
Kavita Seth - Iktara - (Wake Up Sid)
Mouli Dave - Agre Ka Ghagra - (Jai Veeru)
Tarannum Malik - Salone Kya - (What's Your Raashee?)
Shruti Hasaan - Aazma Luck Aazma - (Luck)
Bela Shinde - Su Chhe - (What's Your Raashee?)

STARDUST SEARCHLIGHT AWARDS

Best Actor
Abhay Deol - Dev D
Naseeruddin Shah - Firaaq
Kay Kay Menon - Gulaal
Rishi Kapoor - Chintuji
Irrfan Khan - Billu
Akshay Kumar - 8x10 Tasveer

Best Actress
Soha Ali Khan - 99
Preity Zinta - Videsh
Mahie Gill - Dev D
Lara Dutta - Billu

Best Film
Chintuji
Sankat City
99
Billu
Dev D

Best Director
Nandita Das - Firaaq
Priyadarshan - Billu
Ashu Trikha - Baabarr
Ranjit Kapoor - Chintuji
Pankaj Advani - Sankat City
Anurag Kashyap - Dev D

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Dream Director
Rajkumar Hirani - 3 Idiots
Rajkumar Santoshi - Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani
Rohit Shetty - All The Best
Vishal Bhardwaj - Kaminey
R. Balki - Paa
Imtiaz Ali - Love Aaj Kal

Best Film Of The Year -Comedy
De Dana Dan
Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani
All The Best
Do Knot Disturb
Dil Bole Hadippa

Best Film Of The Year - Action / Thriller
Blue
Wanted
Kaminey
New York
Kurbaan

Best Film Of The Year - Drama
3 Idiots
Love Aaj Kal
Dev D
Wake Up Sid
Delhi 6

Star Of The Year - Male
Aamir Khan - 3 Idiots
Amitabh Bachchan - Paa
Saif Ali Khan - Love Aaj Kal
Salman Khan - Wanted
Akshay Kumar - Blue
Shahid Kapoor - Kaminey
Ajay Devgn - All The Best

Star Of The Year -Female
Katrina Kaif - Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani & New York
Kareena Kapoor - Kurbaan & 3 Idiots
Vidya Balan - Paa
Rani Mukherjee - Dil Bole Hadippa
Priyanka Chopra - Kaminey

Best Actor In A Supporting Role
Abhishek Bachchan - Paa
Vivek Oberoi - Kurbaan
Rishi Kapoor - Luck By Chance
Hrithik Roshan - Luck By Chance
Sharman Joshi - 3 Idiots

Best Actress In A Supporting Role
Dimple Kapadia - Luck By Chance
Kirron Kher - Kurbaan
Divya Dutta - Delhi 6
Tisca Chopra - Firaaq
Supriya Pathak - Wake Up Sid

Best Actor In A Comedy Role
Sanjay Dutt - All The Best
Akshay Kumar - De Dana Dan
Ajay Devgn - All The Best
Riteish Deshmukh - Do Knot Disturb
Govinda - Life Partner

Kareena says Karenge Karenge for ‘Milenge Milenge’

Kareena Kapoor has said to be cooperating with the makers of her forthcoming movie ‘Milenge Milenge’ with ex-beau Shahid Kapoor. IndiaGlitz gives you the latest on this.

After all the humbug about her denial in the project with Shahid as the hero, sources say that Kareena has thrashed all those reports and says she will like to complete the movie and has no problems whatsoever with Shahid.

The professional actress she is has extended her cooperation to producer Boney Kapoor and director the movie, Satish Kaushik by giving them bulk dates and also allotting time for the promotional video of the movie.

Once the movie is complete, it will be the first release of Kareena with Shahid after their much publicized break-up.

I won't be celebrating my birthday: Aamir

New Delhi, March 12 (IANS) Superstar Aamir Khan won't celebrate his 45th birthday Sunday.

'I will not be celebrating my birthday this year,' Aamir told IANS over e-mail from Mumbai.


Media reports said the actor will fly to the capital Sunday to rub shoulders with acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker James Cameron and to discuss the future of cinema.


'Yes, I am going to be in Delhi for (a) conclave where I would be meeting Cameron,' said the actor.


Aamir did not say why he won't celebrate his birthday. But a source close to him said: 'He in any case doesn't believe in parties and celebrations for his birthday. Moreover, with his dad (noted filmmaker Tahir Hussain) passing away last month, he is keeping a very low profile.'


Incidentally, his colleague Shah Rukh Khan has teamed up with international rapper Akon in Mumbai to record a song.


With cinema in his blood, perfection in his attitude and known as the king of promotional strategies, Aamir managed to deliver several super hits since his first success 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak' (1988).


In more than than two decades he has given hits like 'Dil', 'Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin', 'Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar', 'Rangeela', 'Raja Hindustani', 'Ishq', 'Ghulam', 'Sarfarosh', 'Dil Chahta Hai' and 'Rang De Basanti'.


His 2001 hit period drama 'Lagaan' was nominated in the best foreign picture category at the Oscars.


Off late he struck gold with his 'one-year-one-movie' startegy. His '3 Idiots' and 'Ghajini' smashed all box office records to become Hindi cinema's top two highest earners till date. They have reportedly collected Rs.400 crore and Rs.226 worldwide respectively.


But Aamir is not beaming.


'I don't have any recipe (for success). Lot of us often forget that the business we are in by definition is basically selling stories... We have to be different each time. I have to reinvent myself... that's the demand of my job,' Aamir had earlier said.


'I am attracted to scripts that move me emotionally and when you have such stories to tell, it doesn't matter how unusual it is, people connect to it... I've no idea what audiences want. I only have an idea about what I want...,' he added.


Aamir is a winner of Padma Bhushan, the nation's third highest civilian honour.


Recently, the actor reportedly bagged the biggest endorsement deal by inking an agreement with new telecom entrant, UAE's Etisalat, for Rs.300-350 million for three years.


With so many feathers in his cap, the actor stands tall as an epitome of commercial cinema.


But he is now taking a sabbatical from acting to concentrate on his production ventures - 'Delhi Belly', 'Peepli Live' and his wife Kiran Rao's directorial debut 'Dhobi Ghat'.

I`m a Shah Rukh fan: Akon

International R&B singer Akon, who is here to record songs for Shah Rukh Khan's film "Ra.One", says he is a big fan of the Bollywood superstar and that he will not only have shows in India during his world tour but would also do more work here soon.

"I am a big fan of Shah Rukh. I am very familiar with Shah Rukh's work. I am meeting Kareena (Kapoor) for the first time today," Akon told reporters in a press conference here Tuesday. He is not only singing but also composing song for "Ra.One". "I am also composing. You know, I will give him (Shah Rukh) a couple of versions of the song, the way I do it. And I will also integrate it with the traditional way the Bollywood films are done. I will give them options and they will decide, which one to use in the film," said Akon.

Produced by "Red Chilies Entertainment", "Ra.One" will see Shah Rukh playing a superhero. Asked if he is planning to do more work with Indian music directors, he said: "You will see me doing more things in India soon." The singer insists he finds African entertainment culture quite similar to what he sees in India. "You know the tradition in Africa is not different from India. There is same type of entertainment going on, the difference is only in language. I always wanted to expand my horizon, explore and enjoy," said Akon who will soon go on a world tour.

He is looking forward to performances in India as well. "The world tour is coming soon and India is one of my biggest market so I will do number of shows here," said Akon.

The singer dedicated two lines from his song "Beautiful" to actress Kareena Kapoor, who was present at the event. She plays female lead in "Ra.One".

Aamir Khan: I'm not competing with SRK

He has set up new records at the box office with his last hit film 3 IDIOTS. So, the debate about the ruling Khan in the industry has almost been laid to rest. For sure, 3 IDIOTS made more moolah than MY NAME IS KHAN.

But, even after the success of his last film, Aamir Khan still believes that he is not competing with anyone, especially the other Khans of the B-Town.

In a recent interview, when Aamir was asked about his competitor and Bollywood superstar SRK, Aamir said, ''I'm not competing with SRK. There was never any war of supremacy so there is no question of starting or stopping any debate."

However, Aamir khan is, anyhow, making statements through his box-office figures.

Akshay gets demanding with Farah Khan

Akshay Kumar, who has been shooting for Farah Khan's upcoming film TEES MAAR KHAN, is reportedly turning out to be a demanding actor.

According to latest reports, Akshay Kumar who is shooting out of Mumbai has demanded to return home everyday to be with his family. This means that the superstar has to be given a chopper everyday for his shoots. This in turn is proving to be a costly affair for the filmmaker.

Though Farah Khan is also camping at Malshej Ghat with her triplets, but Akki is no mood to stay there. He wants to be with his family back in Mumbai every day. So, the producers have no option but to comply with his wishes.

So, for the next 21 days, Akki will be using a chopper from his shooting place to his home. Well, quite a demanding actor indeed.

Preity travels with security guard

I wish to visit Cuba before Castro dies and Brazil tops my ‘places to visit before I die’ list,” says Preity Zinta. “I want to visit all exotic places before I kick the bucket! I switch off my mobile as nothing can mar a holiday like a phone that rings persistently.”

Travelling alone to a new place can be a challenge and Preity learnt that the hard way. “Ten years ago, I got mugged in London and ended up with a hairline fracture. The thief snatched my purse and jewellery, even the delicious pastries I had bought,” she laments. So now whenever she travels, she has a security guard at her disposal. Though safety is important, Preity loves adventure sports too. She got a first taste of it when she went to Maldives for Ambika Hinduja’s wedding.

But for now, the actor, who co-owns the Punjab IPL team, is focussing on IPL3. “I’m looking forward to the matches in Dharamsala.” But South Africa had its own thrills, says Preity. “It was a lot of work as the home ground advantage was missing. People were very warm and whenever I was near the ground, they would chant ‘pretty pretty,’” she giggles. “But I regret one thing. Going to South Africa and not going for a safari is almost blasphemy. My bodyguard went and got bitten by a lion cub. But as he narrated the tale, he cleverly glossed over the word ‘cub.”

Deepika to sizzle at IPL

Bring on the glitter and the glam as the country gets ready tomorrow for one of the biggest and showiest extravaganzas of the year.

After all, the IPL isn’t just about cricket, is it? And Season 3’s opening ceremony in Mumbai promises to be bigger and better than last year.

Starting with a scintillating performance by international artiste Ali Campbell of the British reggae band UB40, who’ll croon the all-time hit song, Can’t Help Falling In Love, the ageless Bjorn Again will entertain audiences with Abba’s super hit Dancing Queen at the opening ceremony, which promises to be a visual spectacle as well.

But the best is yet to follow. A choreographed light show will announce the entry of Deepika Padukone, who promises to pack a punch along with 40 dancers on stage — giving serious competition to Katrina’s hip swaying with Akon last year — who’ll perform to a medley of I Gotta Feeling by Black Eyed Peas, Uff Teri Ada from Karthik Calling Karthik and Twist from Love Aaj Kal. Then the legendary Lionel Richie comes on stage, and, of course, R&B rapper Akon.

Says Sundar Raman, CEO, IPL, “The IPL weekend fever has already begun. But the real action will take off on Thursday night in Mumbai. Lalit Modi, chairman and commissioner of the Indian Premier League (IPL), will host a grand party at the Turf Ground in Mumbai. The party will begin in the evening around 8 pm. Entry is by invitation only. The guest list will include eminent people from Bollywood, socialites, corporate honchos, politicians, bureaucrats and cricketers. But the main attraction of the evening will be the performances by the international artistes.”

Sundar elaborates, “Day 1 of the IPL tournament kicks off with an opening ceremony before the match, on Friday evening. It will be a visually spectacular show. The opening ceremony will begin at 6.45 pm at the DY Patil Sports Stadium in Mumbai. After the match concludes, IPL officials and players will proceed to a plush city hotel to attend the after-match party-cum-fashion show.” We also hear that a lot of Delhi celebrities are planning to attend the opening ceremony. Says Delhi socialite Shaleen Jain, “I’m eagerly waiting to be there at the opening ceremony along with my friends to watch all the action live at the Mumbai ground.”

I want the Kites banned: Sonam Kapoor

Actress Sonam Kapoor has urged Maharashtra Home Minister R.R. Patil to ban the manufacture of glass-coated strings (manja), used for flying kites, in the entire state as many birds die after getting entangled in them.

"I humbly request your support for the recent ban on 'manja' in Mumbai as well as your immediate action to extend the ban throughout Maharashtra, " she said in a letter to Patil.

"The use of 'manja' may be amusing for some, but for many families - human and bird alike - whose loved ones lose their lives, it is a situation that can be definitely prevented, " Sonam added.

She has made the request on behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India after the Mumbai police banned the use of glass-coated 'manja' for flying kites within the city because of injuries and fatalities to both birds and humans.

The 'manja' used in kite-flying competitions is gummed and coated with powdered and finely crushed glass, making it lethal for birds who become entangled after the strings get caught in trees or on poles

Sonu breaks his nose in 'fight' with Dabbang Salman

Sonu Sood is proud of his long nose. But it's now fractured…and two times at that!

The incident happened when he was filming a climax fight scene for his film, Dabbang, with Salman Khan in Wai. While explaining the scene to Salman, a fight master jumped from a height and kicked him on the nose, leaving it bleeding. Sonu had to be rushed to a hospital immediately because of two fractures.

The actor was asked to return to Mumbai but he stood his ground and stayed right there. Within two days, he was back to the sets. Had he left, Salman and about 500 artists would be left with nothing to do on the set.

Sonu has to take painkillers regularly and move around with padding inside his nose. The pain doesn't seem to be bothering him much, but he's worried about the swelling on his nose showing. We don't think Sonu needs to worry about that, not when he lives in the age of Photoshop.

Preity excited about IPL back in India

I wish to visit Cuba before Castro dies and Brazil tops my 'places to visit before I die' list," says Preity Zinta. "I want to visit all exotic places before I kick the bucket! I switch off my mobile as nothing can mar a perfect holiday like a phone that rings persistently." Her travel addiction sees her in a new destination every year and she wraps up work before her holiday.

For Preity, travelling was not always a matter of choice as her father was in the army. "We were always on the move. From Kashmir to Kovalam to Mizoram, I got a chance to explore our incredibly beautiful country."

African Safari

The actress, who co-owns Kings XI Punjab, is now focusing on the upcoming IPL season. "I am excited that the game is back in India and I looking forward to the matches in Dharamshala." But South Africa had its own thrills, says Preity. "It was a lot of work as the home ground advantage was missing. People were very warm and whenever I was near the ground, they would chant 'pretty pretty'." she giggles. "But I regret one thing.

Going to South Africa and not going for a safari is almost blasphemy. My bodyguard went and got bitten by a lion cub. But as he narrated the tale, he cleverly stopped mentioning the word 'cub'."

Playing safe

When she is not travelling on work, Preity does not spend too much time planning the perfect holiday. Instead, she calls up her friends for advice. "I have a sweet barter system with my friends living abroad," she reveals. "Even if I am not in the country, I make sure that my friends take care of my guests. So when I go abroad, they help me with hotels, sightseeing and the best restaurants."

Travelling alone to a new place can be a challenge when you have to look out for yourself and Preity learnt that the hard way. "Ten years ago, I got mugged in a dark alley in London and ended up with a hairline fracture. The thief snatched my purse and jewellery, even the delicious pastries I had bought," she laments. So now whenever she travels, she has a car, a driver and a security guard at her disposal.

Evenings in Paris

After London and Switzerland, Paris is on her list of favourites, she says. "Last July, I made a spur-of-the-moment trip from London with my fashion designer friend, Surily Goel. We indulged ourselves and stayed in the best and most luxurious hotel, George V, in Paris. I had a little pact with Surily -- the days were hers and the evenings were mine. So during the day, Surily dragged me to every shop in the city and in the evening, we tried out new cuisines (since I love eating!)." For the zesty Zinta, Italy also is a favoured destination. "The best way to visit Europe is to travel to the quaint and beautiful towns. I love shopping in the cities though," she laughs.

Fishy Tales

Paris, one of Preity’s favourite getaways
Closer home, Preity looks forward to short trips to Goa. "My most memorable Goan trip was the one with my parents. We explored the fascinating nooks and crannies of Old Goa. In the evenings, I would lie on the beach, staring at the stars. One day I was sitting on the beach, watching the fishermen take out their fresh catch. Though the sight was fascinating, I was appalled by the sight of dead fish being carted to be sold. I didn't eat fish for ten years after that."

Food forms a very important part of her travels. "I love trying out local cuisines but I always eat safe. I stay away from shellfish and red meat in an unfamiliar place," says Zinta. But like all Indians, Preity can't do without Indian food for long. "I can't do without my parathas and kadi chawal for long and look for Indian restaurants abroad."

The zing factor

Preity got her first taste of adventure sports when she went to Maldives for her good friend Ambika Hinduja's wedding. "I tried deep sea diving for the first time and loved it. After that, I went bungee jumping in New Zealand. The adrenalin rush is amazing and the country is awesome with adventure sports options for everyone. I am definitely going back there to try out all other sports," she added.

Neil tells SRK to shut up

"Never again!" Neil Nitin Mukesh shudders at the very thought of the way he was forced to misbehave on stage with Shah Rukh Khan -- by Shah Rukh Khan himself.

Trust Shah Rukh to espouse irreverence. But Neil hasn't been able to get over it. Katrina Kaif and Bipasha Basu were in a state of shock after Neil's outburst on stage against Shah Rukh Khan at the Filmfare awards.

Two days after Neil told co-hosts Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan to just plainly and simply shut up on stage at the Filmfare Awards at Yashraj studios, the debate rages in the film industry.

Was the well-behaved blue-eyed-boy's aggressive impudence towards his superstar seniors on Neil's home turf (he's known as a full-on Yashraj boy) for real? Or was it just an act?

To rewind a bit: At the Filmfare awards, co-hosts Shah Rukh and Saif Ali Khan decided to take on Neil on stage, riling him endlessly. The final straw was the digs that Shah Rukh took at Neil's name.

"Neil," said Shah Rukh, "Why do you have three first names and no surname? My name is Khan. Saif too is a Khan. How come you have no last name?"

Neil couldn't take the slight to his family name. He not-so-gently reminded Shah Rukh that he ought to restrain himself because his, Neil's, father was sitting in the audience.

And then, horror of horrors, he told Shah Rukh to just shut up.

There was an uncomfortable silence in the auditorium.

Recalling the incident with an uncomfortable laugh, Neil said: "I'm still shaking. Imagine me telling Shah Rukh Khan to shut up! But I did. That isn't all. At the end of the show I walked up to Shah Rukh and Saif and broke eggs on their heads."

But relax. It was all part of an act.

"It was all planned by Shah Rukh sir. I was told by the organisers, the Moranis, from beforehand that I was supposed to be part of Shah Rukh's act. I was supposed to reach early and rehearse for it. But as luck would have it I had gone to town to pick up my parents and got stuck in the traffic. By the time I reached the venue there was only time for a quick briefing on what I had to do."

Shah Rukh walked up to Neil and quickly told him the plan on stage.

Neil was aghast. "How could I say shut up to Shah Rukh Khan? I've never been rude even to my driver. But he insisted. He also told me to throw eggs at him and Saif at the end of the show. I begged and pleaded to spare me. But Shah Rukh didn't listen."

Neil did his own on-the-spot improvisation on stage to spare himself the aggravated agony. "Instead of throwing the eggs I walked up to Saif and Shah Rukh and broke the eggs on their heads. How could I throw eggs at them? Their fans would never forgive me!"

After the act Neil's shocked father has still not forgiven his son, although he has been told it was all in jest.

Says Neil: "Bipasha rushed to me and said if it was an act then it was really scary. Katrina stormed up to me after the show and told me to apologize to Shah Rukh, at once."

Laughing nervously, Neil re-lived the trauma of being forced to be rude to a hero he worships.

"I'm glad people finally got to see my mischievous side... But no thanks. Never again."

My Name is Khan grosses 174.60 crore worldwide

Shah Rukh Khan starrer My Name is Khan has grossed Rs 174.60 crore worldwide with India contributing Rs 102.2 crore and international markets netting an all time high of Rs 72.4 crore for a Hindi film, distributors said.

It has become the highest grossing Bollywood film in the Middle East at USD 3.3 million. With the movie opening in Jordan, Lebanon and Syria on March 10, the number is expected to go much higher, according to Vijay Singh of Fox Studios.

In the UAE, MNIK's collections are nearly on par with Dark Knight, Transformers 2, Spider Man 3 and Twilight: New Moon. At final count, the Middle East distributors expect the figures to be twice of Fox Searchlight's global 2008 phenomenon Slumdog Millionaire in this market, he said.

"In other markets too, it continues to grow and has crossed over to non-diaspora audiences. In Indonesia, for example, the film has grown from 6 to 14 screens," Singh said. Directed by Karan Johar, the movie is about the journey of an Indian family and their saga post the 9/11 attacks on the US.

Ranbir calling Deepika!

Talking about love...here is one couple who is either in denial or is denying us the real story. Our sources tell us that the ex-lovers are on the patch-up path.

Yeah, apparently the couple really wants to be with each other, but they don’t want their ‘coming together’ to be as dramatic as their shocking break-up. Rumour is that Ranbir and Ms Dee have been in touch and because of their work schedules (RK has been in the USA for the past three months almost), all the ‘sweet somethings’ are happening via text messages. RK is quite amused by rumours of his link-up with Priyanka, which RK campwallahs tell us are totally unsubstantiated; likewise, Deepika is laughing off rumours of her off-screen romance with co-star Farhan Akhtar, as well as with Shahid who is just a ‘good friend’. We guess, right now, Ms Dee’s cell is constantly busy, and no, it’s not Karthik calling.

Oye Katrina Oye

Balle Balle di Vow Vow, the London beauty in her Bollywood duty after impressing the ‘junta’ in the Laloo land with her Bhojpuri, is all set to win the heart of the Punjabis in her next untitled flick helmed by Imtiaz Ali.

As we know that Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor will pair with the lovely Katrina and all eyes will be on this hot jodi who ignited the screen with their lovely chemistry in ‘Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahini’.

Well it will be a cakewalk for Ranbir to pull the role of a panju (B- town lingo for a Punjabi) lets see how Kats pulls her wrangler jeans and gets into the dupattas and the Punjabi mode.

While Katrina is busy on learning the Punjabi accent, we request you to stay in tune for more on this….

Caring Kat… Loving Salman?

The ambiguity looms large. The rumours remain inconsistent. While tabloid tattle hints at Katrina Kaif and Salman Khan hitting a rocky patch in their romantic alliance, others swear they're still a besotted twosome.

Clever Kat, herself, loses no chance to reel off diplomatic responses which, in essence, convey no clarity. Amid such speculation… one needs to decode her actions.

If they do speak louder than words, as is wont to be with lesser mortals, here's heartening news. Reportedly, Kaif was all set to shoot her act for an award function at Yash Raj Films Studio, prior to Salman Khan.

But the luscious Kat insisted that Khan do his number first, since she was aware that he was zooming off to Panchgani for a schedule of 'Dabanng', sibling Arbaaz's premier production.

A touched Salman completed his number… and instead of scooting off to the hill station, stayed put to shower some tender TLC (tender loving care, for the uninitiated) on Kat. Now, decide for yourself…

Katrina, Priyanka, Deepika, Vidya, Anushka to do cameos in JKSAH

After getting Akshay Kumar, Karan Johar, Farah Khan, Sajid Khan, Amrita Rao and Boman Irani to make guest appearances in his film-about-films Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai writer-director Milap Zaveri feels the star line-up is just not strong enough.

With the help of producer Nikhil Advani, Milap has roped in some more A-listers at the last minute.

Glam queens Deeepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma and Vidya Balan will make cameo appearances in Milap's film and thereby add to the film's commercial value.

The cameos with these five ladies are expected to be shot next week, just 3 weeks ahead of the film's release creating a major last-minute pre-release situation.

Says Milap, "That's true. I'm roping in the names you've mentioned. Shooting at the last minute would be no problem because all of the star appearances are in the first reel, so I just have to re-edit the initial reel. Also, I've kept slates in the pre-final print announcing the various star cameos which I've filled up as and when they've been available." Milap is candid enough to admit his film has no big star value. "The only star is Riteish Deshmukh. Jacqueline Fernandez and Ruslaan Mumtaz will become stars after the film is released. Until they do, I need to get audiences into theatres. That's why we need to rope in more stars in cameos."

Besides his own clout in the industry as a long-standing and very successful writer-director, Milap Zaveri's producer Nikhil Advani is also using his good wishes to rope in the glam-queens to add a dash of allure to Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai.

Nikhil has apparently sent out messages to Deepika, Priyanka, Anushka, Vidya and Katrina who have all agreed.

While Anushka will shoot her portion on the sets of Nikhil Advani's Patiala House, the other ladies will touch base next week and do the needful.

Says Milap, "Vidya would be slightly difficult since she's shooting in Delhi. But we'll manage." Milap is expected to fly down to Delhi to get Vidya's cameo in place.

Making a film about the film industry is not easy. The director is expected to rope in all the stars that can be crammed in the film. Luckily, for Milap Zaveri, he has a producer who can get his friends to do the needful.

Says Milap, "The stars making special appearances have been absolutely wonderful. Akshay Kumar insisted on seeing a part of the film before doing his cameo. Akshay speaks about Ruslaan Mumtaz's character in the camera. And do you know, Karan Johar actually agreed to be snubbed by Ruslaan Mumtaz! Ruslaan plays a superstar and in the film he refuses to take Karan's calls."

Farah Khan has a full-fledged role as a film director. But the biggest sport so far seems to be Boman Irani who shot for just the trailer of Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai.

Says Milap emotionally, "That's true. Boman is not in the film, only in the trailer. Everyone who has made an appearance in my film has been wonderful. I guess it comes from being around for so long."

Big B didn't think highly of PAA

The film PAA might have brought back the laurels for Big B's film production company, but the script of the film had not impressed the superstar in the beginning when he read it for the first time.
At the recently held Brooke Bond Taj Enlighten Tareef Award, the superstar who was honoured with a lifetime award for his contribution to the world cinema was recollecting how PAA has turned out to be one of the latest highs in his career.

Speaking about the film, Big B said, "Initially I felt the script of PAA was weak. Though, when I was told that I will play the role of a son in the film, I was actually thrilled. So, I told my director about my reaction to the script which had powerful characters but a weak script according to me. Later, to my surprise, the filmmaker re-drafted the script and when I read it again, I was simply bowled over."

The award ceremony saw Big B interacting with the audiences at length and he spoke in detail about his favourite film dialogues and scenes.

The superstar also used the occasion to convey his displeasure with the recently published reports about his Bahu Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in which it was stated that she was suffering from stomach tuberculosis. The superstar said that such reports were absolutely unwanted and demanded an apology from the publishers.

12th London Asian Film Festival attracts Bollywood stars

Bollywood fans in the UK will get the chance to interact with some of the biggest names in the Hindi film industry at the Tongues on Fire 12th London Asian Film Festival (5-14 March 2010). Leading Bollywood figures are scheduled to attend including Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Soha Ali Khan and Sharmila Tagore. The festival will give audiences the chance to see some of Bollywood's biggest hits of the last few years in London's West End, including Tarun Mansukhani's DOSTANA, Mani Ratnam's GURU and Shimit Amin's CHAK DE! INDIA.
A BAFTA interview with Abhishek Bachchan opens the festival on Friday, celebrating the cinematic achievements of Junior Bachchan. The event will be followed by an Opening Gala Dinner where Jaya Bachchan, the first lady of Bollywood, will be presented with "A Lifetime Achievement Award" for her contribution to the Indian film industry. Abhishek, who has been nominated for Filmfare awards for his roles in BUNTY AUR BABLY, GURU and DOSTANA, is scheduled to deliver an Actor's Masterclass, giving film practitioners and cinema lovers the opportunity to interact with their idol and learn what makes him and the characters he plays so successful.

Festival Director Pushpinder Chowdhry believes Asian film has the feel good factor and the ability to speak to a wide range of audiences, "This year's Tongues on Fire couldn't come at a better time. With MY NAME IS KHAN smashing records at cinemas around the country to become the most successful Bollywood film in British box office history, it's the perfect time to celebrate the achievements of Asian cinema."

Tongues on Fire also celebrates other South Asian cinemas, as well British Indian films such as the Om Puri starrer LIFE GOES ON, which has its premiere screening at the closing night event with actors Sharmila Tagore and Soha Ali Khan. Pioneer of middle cinema, Shyam Benegal, whose WELL DONE ABBA is being shown, will be giving a film direction workshop and taking part in a BAFTA interview. Festival patron, the writer, actress and comedian Meera Syal says, "I have been very proud to be associated with Tongues on Fire over the years - both as an excited viewer, and also as a participant, and am honoured to be the Patron of the Festival."

12th London Asian Film Festival attracts Bollywood stars

Bollywood fans in the UK will get the chance to interact with some of the biggest names in the Hindi film industry at the Tongues on Fire 12th London Asian Film Festival (5-14 March 2010). Leading Bollywood figures are scheduled to attend including Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Soha Ali Khan and Sharmila Tagore. The festival will give audiences the chance to see some of Bollywood's biggest hits of the last few years in London's West End, including Tarun Mansukhani's DOSTANA, Mani Ratnam's GURU and Shimit Amin's CHAK DE! INDIA.
A BAFTA interview with Abhishek Bachchan opens the festival on Friday, celebrating the cinematic achievements of Junior Bachchan. The event will be followed by an Opening Gala Dinner where Jaya Bachchan, the first lady of Bollywood, will be presented with "A Lifetime Achievement Award" for her contribution to the Indian film industry. Abhishek, who has been nominated for Filmfare awards for his roles in BUNTY AUR BABLY, GURU and DOSTANA, is scheduled to deliver an Actor's Masterclass, giving film practitioners and cinema lovers the opportunity to interact with their idol and learn what makes him and the characters he plays so successful.

Festival Director Pushpinder Chowdhry believes Asian film has the feel good factor and the ability to speak to a wide range of audiences, "This year's Tongues on Fire couldn't come at a better time. With MY NAME IS KHAN smashing records at cinemas around the country to become the most successful Bollywood film in British box office history, it's the perfect time to celebrate the achievements of Asian cinema."

Tongues on Fire also celebrates other South Asian cinemas, as well British Indian films such as the Om Puri starrer LIFE GOES ON, which has its premiere screening at the closing night event with actors Sharmila Tagore and Soha Ali Khan. Pioneer of middle cinema, Shyam Benegal, whose WELL DONE ABBA is being shown, will be giving a film direction workshop and taking part in a BAFTA interview. Festival patron, the writer, actress and comedian Meera Syal says, "I have been very proud to be associated with Tongues on Fire over the years - both as an excited viewer, and also as a participant, and am honoured to be the Patron of the Festival."

Lara has reasons to celebrate

The talk of B-town over the last weekend has been Miss Universe Lara Dutta’s first public appearance with tennis ace Mahesh Bhupati.

The couple who got every head in the crowd to turn as they walked together on the red carpet at the recent Filmfare Awards night are now the toast of the town because they’ve dropped their pretences. Lara actually seems to be on top of things currently. Not only does she have an interesting film release — Housefull, coming up this summer; she is also said to be negotiating with some popular brands currently.

Looks as if this beauty pageant winner will have reason to celebrate --on the personal and professional front after all.

Ranbir to be butler in new commercial

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor, one of the brand ambassadors of Pepsi, will play the role of a butler in a new TV commercial for the beverage.

The 27-year-old will be seen wearing a crisp white shirt, a tie and a waistcoat with a funky spiked hairdo for the commercial that will be aired soon.

Ranbir is happy with the commercial, which was shot in a mansion in Los Angeles.

"Shooting was definitely a 'wow' experience. I love the way it has turned up right from the script, the sets, the whole look. With Pepsi I have always got a chance to experiment and try new interesting characters. Each commercial brings with it a new excitement," Ranbir said in a statement.
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Priyanka Chopra visits Twitter headquarter

Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra, who is set to cross the 200,000 mark in Twitter followers, visited the headquarter of the micro-blogging website in San Francisco after being especially invited there.



Priyanka tweeted about her visit to the headquarter where she met Biz Stone, Twitter co-founder.

"My day was really interesting because I was invited to Twitter headquarter in San Francisco! Had a great time. Thanks Biz and team for the wonderful hospitality," she posted.

The 27-year-old, who has been shooting in US for Sajid Nadiadwala's "Anjaana Anjaani", is going to cross the 200,000 mark as far as her followers on Twitter are concerned. At present, she leads the Bollywood bandwagon on the site with 196,903 followers and has left stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Preity Zinta, Shahid Kapoor far behind.

"Priyanka was in the US for her movie shoot. She had to drop by at a studio for the NDTV Indian of the Year programme and there she met the Twitter team. She was invited to the headquarter office in San Francisco since she is so popular among the Bollywood celebs on Twitter," a source close to the actress said.

Aamir is an unhappy Khan

Aamir Khan is not in a good mood these days. And the man who has put him there is none other than Abhinay Deo, who has directed Aamir's production Delhi Belly, starring Imran Khan.


Apparently, Aamir had planned to release Anusha Rizvi's Peepli Live and then his wife Kiran Rao's film Dhobi Ghat. Abhinay's Delhi Belly was third in line. In fact, he's been busy with the finishing touches of Peepli Live for some time now. But then he heard the nasty rumours Abhinay has been allegedly spreading about Aamir. He has been hinting that good ol' Aamir has seen Delhi Belly and wants to re-work it. The fact of the matter is that Aamir had clearly told Abhinay that he'll see it only after Abhinay has done the film's first edit. And Abhinay has not finished the first edit yet.

Not wanting the negative rumours to affect Delhi Belly's performance at the box office, Aamir is re-thinking the line-up of his releases. So will it be Delhi Belly first and then Dhobi Ghat? Wait and watch.

Lucky mascot Katrina in demand

Being in demand and in competition for the No. 1 slot in Bollywood, comes with its own headaches. After nine hits, she’s come to be considered a lucky mascot and now all the big filmmakers want to sign her on in 2010. But... this demand is causing Kat more stress than delight, say trade sources.

Tarun Mansukhani wants her for Dostana-2 with Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham, Imtiaz Ali was considering her for Rockstar opposite Ranbir Kapoor, Ritesh Sidhwani has approached her for Zoya Akhtar’s film opposite Hrithik Roshan and, Kat has already been signed for Farah Khan’s Tees Maar Khan opposite Akshay Kumar.

These filmmakers want to start shooting in April-May-June. Tarun says, “Kat will definitely be in Dostana-2, come what may.” While Ritesh says, “We’re working towards getting Kat in our film for sure.” But Imtiaz is reportedly looking at a new Kashmiri girl opposite Ranbir.