Mar 1, 2010

India's first tourist police station opens in Kochi





Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge completes 750 weeks


 Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge Just like old wine, SRK and Kajol's blockbuster film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) keeps getting better and better with each passing year. This month- February 2010, DDLJ has set yet another record by completing 750 weeks of continuous play. In a feat perhaps unmatched anywhere in the world, the magic of the evergreen romance keeps pulling audiences back to the Maratha Mandir theatre in Mumbai. Directed by Aditya Chopra, DDLJ opened to full houses and rave reviews all over the world way back on 20th October 1995. This evergreen Yash Raj Film remains the longest running film in the history of Indian cinema, as it passes one milestone after another, and is presently running in its 15th year of running.


Madhavan skips Sundance, goes on US tour to discuss 3i with NRI audiences


R MadhavanMadhavan missed his appointment with his 3 Idiots co-star Aamir Khan at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this month. During his recent visit to Canada with his wife and son, Madhavan was invited by Aamir to the Sundance Film Festival. But then man proposes, God disposes. Aamir's father passed away. Says Madhavan, "I was supposed to join Aamir at the Sundance Film Festival and in fact all set to leave from Canada to the US when news came that Aamir had to rush back. Of course I was disappointed. I was hoping to participate in the festival with Aamir and catch his film Peepli Live which I haven't seen. But more than disappointment about missing Sundance I was concerned for Aamir's loss. We all were." With Sundance being cancelled Maddy decided to take a different route. He decided to do an American tour entitled 'Coffee With An Idiot'. Explains Maddy, "It was a very selected gathering, intellectual and fun at the same time. The whole idea of 'Coffee With An Idiot' was inspired by 3 Idiots. I wanted the film's success to be take-off point for cozy sit-in dinners with a selected audience in four American cities namely Dallas, San Jose, New Jersey and Chicago. The interaction in each city lasted for nearly two hours." Just back from his 'Coffee With An Idiot'tour, Maddy was struck by the level of intellectual and mass connectivity the NRIs in the US had with 3 Idiots. "It's opened up a whole new discussion on the education system and the role of Indian cinema in bridging the gap between Oriental and Western perceptions on the power of the youth." Now Madhavan wants to take his 'Coffee With An Idiot' discussion to other parts of the world. "In many ways I owe the concept and its success to Aamir Khan. If 3 Idiots hadn't happened, such a creative forum discussing education and the youth wouldn't have opened up. On a more microscopic level it was Aamir's invitation to Sundance which actually made my 'Coffee With An Idiot' tour Possible." Quite like the protagonist in 3 Idiots, Madhavan seems confused about his future. "I've a thriving career in Tamil and my career in Hindi cinema has just found its bearings. I can't pretend that a 3 Idiots will happen again. It's a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. So when I am asked during the promotional tours of Teen Patti if it will be as big a success as 3 Idiots, I feel like throwing my hands up in the air and running the other way."


Freida Pinto to play Greek priestess in Tarsem Singh's War of The Gods


Freida PintoEver since she made her debut with the film Slumdog Millionaire, Freida has been creating waves from the film's victory at the Oscars, to her being signed on for Woody Allen's next. She is certainly going places. However, the latest news is that Freida has been signed on for yet another Hollywood film War of The Gods. While Freida has completed her shooting Woody Allen's You Will Meet A Tall Dark Stranger opposite Josh Brolin and Naomi Watts, and Israeli film Miral, which has been directed by Julian Schnabel, she will be working in War of The Gods which is based on Greek mythology and will be directed by Tarsem Singh. It begins production in April. The story revolves around the warrior Theseus, who leads his men into battle with the Greek gods to defeat evil and the other elder gods in order to save mankind. Freida who plays a Greek priestess in the film, portrays Phaedra, an oracle priestess who joins Theseus, to prevent the cataclysmic war from erupting. The film which is scheduled to go on floors this April is being produced by Gianni Nunnari of Hollywood Gang Prods, Mark Canton of Atmosphere Entertainment and Relativity topper Ryan Kavanaugh.


April 9, release date of JKSAH, is lucky for Milap and Riteish


Milap Zaveri, Riteish Deshmukh6 years ago, on April 9, 2004, Riteish Deshmukh delivered the first hit of his career- Masti. While the film was directed by Indra Kumar, Milap Zaveri was the man behind the story, screenplay and funny dialogues of the film. Now exactly six years later, Milap Zaveri makes his directorial debut with the romantic comedy Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Ha starring Riteish Deshmukh and Jacqueline Fernandez in lead roles and as luck would have, it the film releases on the same date April 9. Milap, who is eagerly awaiting the response to his maiden directorial venture, hopes that history repeats itself. "Riteish and my first hit as a team was Masti which released on the 9th of April. Now, 6 years later, once again we have our film Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai releasing on the same date. For us, 9th April is a really lucky date and we hope that history repeats itself yet again on this date." Looks like Milap and Riteish have taken luck on their side and hopefully, it'll do the trick for Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai.


Arshad Warsi to get Rs. 3 crores for Golmaal 3?


Arshad WarsiHe's in. He's out. He's finally....in! After the producers Ashthavinayak, apparently, agreed to pay him a whopping Rs. 3 crores to be part of the third segment of the ongoing Golmaal franchise, Arshad Warsi finally agreed to do the film. After frantic negotiations the deal was finally cut on Monday. And yes, Arshad has condescended to be part of Golmaal 3. His 3-crore rupee fee should be higher than every member of the cast barring Ajay Devgn. Even higher than Kareena Kapoor who has a 3-film deal with the producers. Says a source, "Arshad after Ishqiya was adamant on his fee. The producers tried to convince him to take a much smaller fee arguing that his co-stars Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor and Kunal Khemu (who replaces Sharman Joshi) were accepting a far smaller fee and if Arshad was paid 3 crores, the other actors would feel short-changed."
Arshad stuck to his guns. Stories came out saying the actor, now hot at the box-office after Ishqiya, did not like the script of Golmaal 3. Says Rohit, "We were really keen to have him in the film. And yes the price has been worked out between Arshad and the producers. So he's on." Strangely though, even after Rohit confirmed Arshad's presence in Golmaal 3, Arshad was still in denial. Said the actor, "I am not sure yet. They've been after me for some time now. But I'm not able to make up my mind. I need to give time to my own production Hum Tum Aur Ghost. So I don't know how I'll manage the dates." However, sources from Golmaal 3 insist that Arshad is in at a staggering fee (for a non-lead actor). The other actor like Arshad who has started acting pricey after a hit (3 Idiots) is Sharman Joshi who was reportedly asking for Rs 2.5 crores. He turned down the third part of Golmaal through his secretary. Says Rohit Shetty, "Even before the scripting of Golmaal 3, Sharman sent me a message through his secretary saying he had other plans. I immediately looked for a replacement and am very happy with Kunal Khemu. Any regrets about Sharman? None at all. In fact we met at the airport recently and there wasn't any mention of Golmaal 3." With Ishqiya and 3 Idiots, Arshad Warsi and Sharman Joshi seem to be determined to move into the big league. Both actors are aiming to play the main lead. Without naming anyone Rohit Shetty says, "There're lots of very talented actors out here who are fabulous side attractions but can never be the main course." We can safely assume whom he is talking about.


Hrithik Roshan to endorse LifeCell babycord


Hrithik RoshanHe is a man for whom 'Perfection', 'Sincerity' and 'Dedication' form the middle name. He is none other than Hrithik Roshan. After having endorsed umpteen FMCG products ranging from colas to electronics, Hrithik will now be seen endorsing 'LifeCell babycord'. It's about stem cell preservation. Clinical research has proven that over 75 ailments can be treated using stem cells taken from the umbilical cord. 'LifeCell babycord' talks about preserving the child's umbilical cord at the time of birth and giving the child a safe and secured future. And with Hrithik's never-failing image and positioning as a 'family man', the LifeCell babycord officials could have never got a better option than Hrithik Roshan. With films like Guzaarish and Kites on its way to hit the silver screen anytime now, Hrithik has again proved that he is the flavor of any season and every reason.


Wishing Shahid Kapoor a very happy Birthday!


Shahid KapoorHe is someone, who has, in his own sweet and boyish ways, redefined the term 'acting'. Despite the fact that he has the DNA and the genes of two of the all time superstars, he preferred to wear off his jeans by slogging it out in the sun and make a name for himself! Did he succeed? Well, he not just succeeded but also set unprecedented records… for he is none other than today's Birthday Boy Shahid Kapoor. After having lent his name to a million smash hit films, songs and also a zillion FMCG products, this dude is sitting on a goldmine, since he has his diary filled with appointments galore till the end of eternity! Such is his 'demand' over the 'command'! A testimonial to this stands in the form films ranging from Ishk Vishk till Kaminey. With today's birthday, the irony is that he not grows a year old, but he grows ten years younger! Such is the greatness of this 'sabka laadla chokra' called Shahid Kapoor. Bollywood Hungama gives you a chance to wish this stud of an actor by posting your birthday wishes below:


Kailash Kher records anthem for FIFA World Cup


kailash KherHe shot into immense fame with his smash hit song 'Allah Ke Bande', so much so that it had almost become the national anthem of the country. We are indeed talking about Kailash Kher, one of the most mellifluous singers of the recent times, who is simply on a roll. After having churned a million hit songs, Kher is now all set to make his presence felt on the international music scene, as he has now got into collaboration with the international musical sensation Khaled (of 'Didi' fame). The resultant was nothing but sheer magic, which will be heard and felt as the 'anthem that will be associated with the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2010'. Repeated attempts to establish contacts with Kailash proved futile. But, needless to say that, in all, Bollywood and Bollywood Hungama are indeed proud of you. Way to go, Kailash!


Shazahn Padamsee signed up as brand ambassador for Skechers


Shazahn PadamseeWhen you have parents who are already superstars, it's but obvious that the spotlight will refuse to move away from you. Same is the case with Shazahn Padamsee, one of the front runner actresses of the Bubblegum generation. After having made her impressive debut in Rocket Singh: Salesman Of The Year, Shazahn, surely is on every director's wish list. The good news for all the 'Shazahn-ites' (need we say who they are!) is that this pretty girl has been signed up as the brand ambassador for Skechers, one of the leading shoe manufactures globally. Speaking exclusively to Bollywood Hungama, Shazahn confirmed saying, "Yes, I have been chosen as the brand ambassador for Skechers. I have shot for a print ad, which will be out soon." One of our confirmed sources added that the reason why Shazahn was chosen was the fact that 'The company needed a fresh face that can express a thousand emotions with even uttering a word. And also that the said brand was a thousand times careful while choosing their first Indian brand ambassador as its one of the most premium and respectable brands globally. And after scrutinizing many names, they finally zeroed down on Shazahn. And it is indeed a big-ticket ride for the actress also.' With this deal, Shazahn joins the likes of Britney Spears, Ashley Simpson, Brandy and David Cook, who also endorsed Skechers.


Fashion designer Rohit Bal suffers heart attack


Rohit BalWell-known fashion designer Rohit Bal suffered a heart attack yesterday. The designer has since been admitted to Medanta Medicity in Gurgaon. Bal, 42, suffered an attack at his Defence Colony residence and he was soon rushed to the hospital. Apart from designing for many Bollywood celebrities, Bal also has international clients like Uma Thurman, Cindy Crawford, Pamela Anderson, Naomi Campbell and Anna Kournikova to name a few. Besides, he is also the brand ambassador of Omega watches since 2001 and has ventured into the hotel business by launching two restaurants - Veda and Cibo - in the capital. Bollywood Hungama send out its prayers for his speedy recovery.


India ready to walk extra mile if Pak acts against terror: PM


Addressing the Majlis-al-Shura or the Saudi Consultative Council, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said India seeks a cooperative relationship with Pakistan for permanent peace as both countries are bound together by a shared future.


India, Saudi Arabia sign extradition treaty


India and Saudi Arabia vowed to jointly combat terrorism and money laundering as they signed an extradition treaty and several agreements to raise their cooperation to a strategic partnership.


Guitar in hand, Trinamool MP to sing for Naxals


At a time when the Centre has decided on a full-fledged offensive against Maoists, Trinamool MP Kabir Suman said he will demonstrate against Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in Parliament premises.


Happy Holi! India rout Pak 4-1 in hockey World Cup


Ace drag-flicker Sandeep Singh struck twice as India beat arch-rivals Pakistan 4-1 in their hockey World Cup opening clash at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium.


Chile quake toll touches 700, Indian biz badly hit


The 8.8 degree earthquake that hit Chile on Saturday morning has left more than 700 people dead and at least 2 million people homeless. Many of the businesses of Indian nationals have been badly affected.


Open to talks on rollback of fuel hike: Pranab


Pranab Mukherjee has said he is 'open to a discussion' on a rollback of the hike in duties on fuels with Cong's allies. Allies like the Trinamool Congress and the DMK have strongly protested against the rise in fuel prices.


Rang barse, bheege chunariya in Sao Paulo


The small Indian community painted the Sao Paulo Athletic Club red with their colours and songs as a German DJ belted out the best bhangra numbers.


Stars take unholy chances on Holi!


There's no stopping Bollywood on the occasion of Holi. The bounds of permissibility are cleverly dunked into the pool of colour and revelry that this robust festival makes allowances for.


Saudi role in Indo-Pak talks? Tharoor sets off row


Shashi Tharoor, minister of state for external affairs, was at the centre of yet another controversy after his remarks on Saturday evening that Saudi Arabia could be a 'valuable interlocutor' between India and Pakistan.


Vancouver bids Olympics farewell


The Vancouver Winter Olympics draw to a spectacular close after 17 days of intense competition.


Canada win thrilling final gold


Sidney Crosby's extra-time goal secures Canada the final gold medal of the Games after a dramatic 3-2 win over the United States in the men's ice hockey


Vidic decision lucky - Ferguson


Sir Alex Ferguson admits Nemanja Vidic was lucky not to be sent off in Manchester United's 2-1 defeat of Aston Villa in the final of the Carling Cup.


Zimbabwe stun Windies in Twenty20


Zimbabwe beat the West Indies by 26 runs in the teams' first-ever Twenty20 international meeting.


Benitez mocks Blackburn's style


Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez sarcastically compares Blackburn's style to Barcelona after his team defeat Rovers 2-1 on Sunday.


Smith hits back in Celtic ref row


Rangers manager Walter Smith criticises the source who leaked a story to the media about Celtic's concerns about refereeing in the run up to Sunday's Old Firm derby.


Leeds 10-18 Melbourne


Australia's Melbourne Storm beat Super League champions Leeds Rhinos to win the World Club Challenge.


Djokovic retains title in Dubai


Novak Djokovic beats Mikhail Youzhny 7-5 5-7 6-3 to win the weather-hit Dubai Open and successfully defend an ATP title for the first time.


Williams wins back-to-back titles


Venus Williams fights back from a set down to win the Mexican Open final and her second consecutive title in a row.