Friday, November 11, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
At 46, I don't feel older or wiser: SRK
"Going to sleep now...this birthday will celebrate with a well deserved many hours of sleep...thanks for your wishes. Don't feel older or wiser," Shah Rukh posted on his Twitter page.
King Khan, as he is lovingly called, says he got emotional when his fans sang a birthday song for him outside his residence in Mumbai.
"Thanks so much boys and girls. Celebrated my birthday in the plane 30,000 ft in the air...then on the tarmac...finally with my little girl and boy.
Was so touched when I reached home from bathing...sooo many ppl waiting outside the house and sang happy birthday for me. Had tears in my eyes," he added.
Shah Rukh's rise from a small screen actor to the reigning star of Bollywood is what fairytales are made of. His latest offering "RA.One", in which he plays a superhero, has set new standards for the use digital technology in Indian filmmaking.
The star has been wished the best in life by celebrities on his D-day.
His "RA.One" co-star Arjun Rampal, tweeted: "Happy Birthday @iamsrk wish u grow from strength to strength. Love u see u later."
Actor Riteish Deshmukh wrote: "Wishing my most favourite actor @iamsrk a very happy birthday- love you loads- keep roccckkingggggggg."
Others like designer Manav Gangwani and jewellery designer Farah Khan Ali too have wished him.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Fitness freak Raveena Tandon
Among her favourite exercises are indoor skipping and cycling. She also makes it a point to start her day with a glass of warm water with some lemon and honey.
"Raveena... keeps a watch on what she eats and yo-yos between cycling, skipping or walking in spite of her professional commitments and being a hands-on mom, " said a source close to the actress.
Raveena is married to film distributor Anil Thadani and has two kids, Rasha and Ranbir.
source: www.santabanta.com
Monday, August 29, 2011
Strictly No Kissing: Salman, Katrina refuse to lock lips
Katrina Kaif and Salman Khan refuse to lock lips in their next film, thanks to the no-kiss clauseKatrina Kaif made an exception in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and kissed Hrithik Roshan in a sequence. However, not again!
The actress, like the other two Khans Salman and Shah Rukh has made it clear that she would never kiss on screen, come what say. The clause doesn't waver even for 'good friend' Salman Khan.
When a situation for a kiss arose in Kabir Khan's Ek Tha Tiger both Sallu and Kat said a clear no. Says a source, "Kabir Khan had convinced Katrina for the only kissing scene she has done so far in New York.
He was sure she would see how important it was. But with both Salman and Katrina adamant on the no-kiss policy there was no choice but to drop it."
Katrina admits she has broken her no-kiss clause for ZNMD. "Yes, there's a fleeting kiss with Hrithik. It was something that had to be done. But that apart, my stand on kissing remains unchanged," she says.
In fact, the actress is in two minds about buying the rights for the 1998 Drew Barrymore rom-com The Wedding Singer because a long kiss is integral to the plot. "I love that film. But the kiss No!" Kats concludes.
source: www.santabanta.com
Anushka: I can bite Ranveer's head off!
"I like him, he's attractive but we two are very different people.
We have a very volatile relationship, we can actually kill each other and I am serious. I can bite his head off, he can take mine off, " reveals the actress on Simi Selects India's Most Desirables.
"So for me, if I need to be with another man, he needs to calm me down otherwise it would not be a good relationship..
I'm serious, " says the actress, who features on Simi Garewal's chat show, this week.
source: www.santabanta.com
Bhatt continues spat with Asin; says he never offered her a film and she needs to achieve "more, before putting on airs of a star" The Asin-Mukesh Bhatt war doesn't seem like its going to end anytime soon. After Bhatt spoke out saying the actress' future in Bollywood is bleak, a string of reports had emerged suggesting that Bhatt was bitter over Asin turning him down for a film. But, according to Bhatt, these stories are Asin's PR machinery plants, and that neither did he, nor will he, ever approach her for a film. "I never offered Asin a film, and I don't intend to, " he says. According to him, there is no truth to these stories, because of Vishesh Films' (Bhatt's production house) policy of working with non-stars. "We don't work with 'stars'. If you look at our films, Bipasha Basu, Kangna Ranaut and Jacqueline Fernandez were all newcomers when they worked with us. So there's no question of working with Asin, " he says. However, despite calling her a star earlier, Bhatt says one needs to be cautious before calling her one. According to him, she has to do a lot more before putting on the airs of a star. "Being in two blockbusters with Aamir and Salman doesn't make her a star. She needs to work in films that feature her in author-backed roles, before she can be considered a star." Wonder what will Asin's reaction to this one be?
He got close to Hema during the shoot of Baghban, where he played her adopted son.
"He treats Esha like his ghar ki bachchi, " adds the source.
Confirming the news, Hema says, "Isn't it sweet of Salman? He insisted on being part of the film despite being one of the busiest stars in Bollywood today."
"It has been difficult to get actors to work in my home productions. In fact, I've been wondering where to find leading men for my films, " she told us candidly.
soruce: www.santabanta.com
Asin v/s Bhatts: Two hits with Aamir and Salman doesn't make her a star
Bhatt continues spat with Asin; says he never offered her a film and she needs to achieve "more, before putting on airs of a star"The Asin-Mukesh Bhatt war doesn't seem like its going to end anytime soon. After Bhatt spoke out saying the actress' future in Bollywood is bleak, a string of reports had emerged suggesting that Bhatt was bitter over Asin turning him down for a film.
But, according to Bhatt, these stories are Asin's PR machinery plants, and that neither did he, nor will he, ever approach her for a film. "I never offered Asin a film, and I don't intend to, " he says.
According to him, there is no truth to these stories, because of Vishesh Films' (Bhatt's production house) policy of working with non-stars.
"We don't work with 'stars'. If you look at our films, Bipasha Basu, Kangna Ranaut and Jacqueline Fernandez were all newcomers when they worked with us. So there's no question of working with Asin, " he says.
However, despite calling her a star earlier, Bhatt says one needs to be cautious before calling her one. According to him, she has to do a lot more before putting on the airs of a star.
"Being in two blockbusters with Aamir and Salman doesn't make her a star. She needs to work in films that feature her in author-backed roles, before she can be considered a star." Wonder what will Asin's reaction to this one be?
source: www.santabanta.com
Revealed: Salman Khan's health problem!
The past week has witnessed considerable speculation over Salman Khan's health. Some reports even mentioned an angiography and a spinal malady.
However, Salman's brother Sohail Khan finally puts all theories to rest. He reveals, "It's just a nerve that has been troubling him for a couple of months now. He got some tests done to get it diagnosed. That's it. Nothing more."
Salman is now in consultation with doctors to get the problem rectified. "Now that the problem has been identified, he has been taking medical advice. We're in the process of finding out the best way to treat the problem. Insha Allah, all should be fine, " confirms Sohail.
However, the superstar has decided to slow down on the professional front. His earlier decision to do projects simultaneously has now been reversed.
Says a source, "Lately, Salman has been shooting for his home production Bodyguard and for Yashraj Films' Ek Tha Tiger simultaneously.
He didn't enjoy the overlapping of projects and has informed his brothers Sohail and Arbaaz that he would be shooting their films Sher Khan and Dabangg 2 respectively next year only.Producer Sajid Nadiadwala and director Shirish Kunder have also been told that their Kick will start only at the beginning of next year. For the rest of this year, Salman will only focus on Ek Tha Tiger."
Sohail confirms his brother's new one-film-at-a-time policy. He says, "My movie Sher Khan will now start early next year after Yashraj.
Now he'll do one film at a time better that way." Shirish, too, has dropped the idea of roping in Salman for a cameo in Joker.
He confirms, "I understand he has a very busy schedule, so I don't want to bother him. Salman and I are working together in Kick. We will save up the excitement for that project."
source: www.santabanta.com
Sonakshi won't share her item with Minissha
Insecure about co-star Sonakshi's much talked-about item number, Minissha reportedly requested to be part of it. Sonakshi, however, put her foot downACCORDING to the grapevine, not all is well between Sonakshi Sinha and Minissha Lamba, both of whom are starring in Shirish Kunder's Joker, an upcoming fantasy film that will also star Akshay Kumar.
Sources claimed that after Lamba heard about Sinha's item number that would be choreographed by Farah Khan (Kunder's wife), she requested the director that she be made a part of it.
The fact that Sinha would be doing an item number has already created quite a stir in the media.
However, Sinha insisted that Lamba be kept out of the song and Kunder in order to make peace had to reportedly promise Lamba a music video for the film instead.
A source said Lamba was right to feel jittery about Sinha's item number.
"After the way Zarine Khan walked away with all the attention in Ready with just one item song, stealing Asin's thunder, and with Kareena having to put her foot down with regards to Katrina's item song in Bodyguard, Minissha wanted to take no chances. That's why she asked Shirish to include her in the number, " he said.
When contacted, Kunder said, "Yes, Minissha did express a desire to be in the item song. I'd have loved her to be part of it.
Unfortunately, her character is not supposed to be introduced at the stage the item song appears in the film. I have, however, promised that I'll shoot a special music video with her."
Minissha Lamba was, however, evasive when asked why she wasn't part of the song. "I don't know about all that. It's a creative call taken by the director, " she said.
source: www.santabanta.com
'I Hate To Be Known As Wasim Akram's Girlfriend'
Lashing out at Indian journalists for making Humaima the next in Wasim Akram’s line of girlfriend after Sushmita Sen, Humaima says, “Wasim has kids, I’ve a family. We’re both answerable to people in our lives.
It becomes very embarrassing for me to be known as Wasim Akram’s girlfriend. I hate
source: www.santabanta.com
Bollywood says Thank you Anna
Hazare, who began his fast Aug 16 morning, agreed to break his fast after parliament Saturday broadly agreed to three key demands of his civil society group to battle corruption.
The celebrities took to Twitter to express their feelings.
Here is what they had to say:
Dia Mirza: Thank you Annaji Hazare for the awakening. I was silent earlier because I was not in an agreement with the method adopted by certain people around Anna. Grateful we've found a middle path! I am proud to have witnessed the India that I have in the last 11 days. Even more proud of parliamentarians who upheld democracy.
Amitabh Bachchan: To know that such individuals inhabit our nation is a moment of the greatest pride. But to know what they feel is incredible!! ...all praise to the spirit of the one man... that he inhabits our land and feels for it.
Shabana Azmi: To a new beginning. Let's applaud Anna for leading the people of India into a nonviolent show of strength.I'm proud to be an Indian.Jai Ho
Abhishek Bachchan: One man unites an entire nation. Peacefully. #saluteBipasha Basu: Anna is our true leader and his spirit has made everyone conscious that we can do away with corruption and need not accept it as a part of our lives. Big step forward for India and all of us!
Raveena Tandon: 'Haazaaron saal jiyo Anna Hazare!!' (Long Live Anna Hazare).
Shekhar Kapur: Woke to a new dawn, a new freedom and saw a distant star of hope shining brighter and closer to every Indian heart. Anna can now rest as nation's youth have heeded his call. 64 years of system will not change overnight so we need to be vigilant. Anna's greatest achievement is to show the people of India that they can take charge of their own destiny.
Hrithik Roshan: My respect and congratulations to the people of India!
Shruti Seth: Anna Hazare has done what none of us thought possible. For better or worse that time will tell. You've made the public realise their power.
Riteish Deshmukh: ANNA stands tall today- PEOPLE stand tall today- INDIA stands tall today- a day to remember
Farhan Akhtar: First step taken in the right direction. My heart is full of gratitude for Anna. It is a victory of the people and for the democratic process.Madhur Bhandarkar: Every generation needs a new revolution. Hats off to Annaji. Jai Hind.
Lara Dutta Bhupathi: Anna's fight is in every home. This will impact everyone of us for years to come! In my life, I hope I'm able to keep this alive in my small way.
Anupam Kher: Thank you Anna. Thank you #Jan Lokpal team. And biggest thanks to the people of our Great Country for their courage and belief. Jai Ho.
Sonu Nigam: Our gratitude and prayers for Anna. Blessed to have met him and rejuvenate him with music on the historical day.
source: www.santabanta.com
Chandni: Bollywood's beloved horse!
Not many know that it's no ordinary horse, it has worked in many other films.
"The horse in the poster of the film is Chandni. This was the same horse that was used in my earlier film 'Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na' and it also featured in a few scenes in 'Jodha Akbar'. Chandni is one of the best trained horses we have in Bollywood…very smart, knows all commands and looks beautiful, " Imran told.
In Bollywood, an actor is not the only star!
source: www.santabanta.com
Rajaysh Tondon too heavy for Hrithik Roshan?
"In the scene Hrithik was supposed to carry my body and take it to a wedding function. I was really concerned about Hrithik's discomfort as I am heavier than him since I had to put on weight for this film.
"When he lifted me and started walking, it was scary for me, but I couldn't do anything to help his situation. But he did it without any complaints and even emoted, which is very tough. The scene lasted for 20 minutes or so. I admire Hrithik for being so patient, " Rajaysh told.
The actor, who has shared screen space with Hrithik in the past in the film "Kaho Na…Pyaar Hai", is playing the role of Mazhar Lala in "Agneepath", which is a remake of the 1990 film of the same name.
source: www.santabanta.com
It's good to have critics in life: Rani Mukherji
Rani Mukherji happily embraces criticism because she believes it helps show the right path in life."I believe it's very good to have critics in your life because there are certain things that you might be doing wrong and it's nice to have people to show you the right path, " Rani said on Zoom's show "Superstar Weekends".
Last seen in "No One Killed Jessica", Rani is currently busy shooting for Reema Kagti's untitled film with Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor.
source: www.santabanta.com
Ranbir's fair sex fans watch Rock Star promo at Krishna Raj
Now, the girls are in a swoon. And so, we might add, is Ranbir who got to watch his Rock Star promo for the first time, and that too in the company of the aam junta. Seeing their reaction he now feels the excitement and the heat of the film’s release.
Says a source, “So far since he was in Kolkata shooting for Barfee Ranbir had missed the first trailer of Rock Star. On Thursday morning director Imtiaz Ali finally sent the trailer over to Ranbir’s bungalow.
As Ranbir sat down in his home theatre to watch the trailer on Thursday morning, he got to know that a bunch of girls who had been regularly standing outside Krishna Raj for a glimpse of the stars even when he was in Kolkata, were at the gate again.
Excited and without a second thought Ranbir rushed out hugged the stunned girl fans and invited them inside to watch the Rock Star trailer. Thereafter he noted the girls’ expressions rather than the goings-on in the trailer. ”
The girls, apparently, have sworn they won’t watch any other film before Rock Star releases.
Interestingly Ranbir’s young fans, mostly of the fair sex, are known to stand outside his family bungalow at any given time. If he’s home Ranbir invites them home. Sometims his dad Rishi Kapoor goes out and speaks to them.
“But to invite the girl fans inside the bungalow to watch the Rock Star trailer…that was bit too much. Trust Ranbir to surprise even himself all the time, ” says the source.
source: www.santabanta.com
Hurricane Irene hits Minishha's plans
Hurricane Irene has just claimed a Bollywood captive. Actress Minissha Lamba who arrived in New York two days ago for an Indo-US cultural event is stuck on the 22nd floor of the Hotel Radisson in New York. She’s likely to be stranded in her room in New york for the next week until the Hurricane blows over and air servies from out of the US are restored.For the next 36 hours Minissha is under ‘hotel curfew’.
Speaking on Sunday morning from her hotel room in New York the actress says, “It’s really really scary out here. For 36 hours the entire New York is gonna have to stay indoors. A state of emergency has been declared.
Everyone is in their homes. As I look out of my hotel window I see a deserted street down below, Can you imagine New York without traffic? It’s like a scene out of Armageddon. ”
Trying to suppress her hysteria, Minissha says, “I am all alone here. My stay has been extended for a week. I had no choice. The airports are shut. All flights are cancelled. Half of New York, New Jersey, Staten Island have been evacuated. I can’t return. ”
Ominously Minissha had been getting warning calls during the week that she was to leave for New York, ordering her to cancel her trip.
“Now I wonder if the caller had a premonition and was trying to warn me from traveling into catastrophe. I hope I can return the soonest possible. Maybe I should just enjoy Irene’s company. She’s my first hurricane. I believe first hurricanes are like first love. You never forget it. ”
source: www.santabanta.com
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Anna Hazare deserves more support than cricket team: Aamir Khan
Film star Aamir Khan Wednesday wrote to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asking him to pay "heed to the voice of Anna Hazare", who has started a fast against corruption. "I am merely one of many who fully support Hazare, and have come to appreciate that this upright 72-year-old man is willing to sacrifice his life in the fight against corruption," wrote Aamir Khan, in his letter dated April 6, to the prime minister.
He said that his decision to support the campaign came after studying and comparing the drafts of the Lok Pal bill of the government, as well as that of the civil society.
"I would like to humbly submit to you that based on all the material that I have read, what Hazare is saying makes a lot of sense to me," the actor wrote.
Khan described himself as "one of over billion citizens of this country who is affected by and most concerned about corruption".
"The last few months has witnessed some shocking exposes. In fact, our society has been plagued by this sickness over the last many decades. I am one of the many who feel that strong steps need to be taken as corrective measures," he said.
The wildly popular Hindi film actor said while the prime minister may know more about the issue, he had "absolutely no doubt that a man of your level of integrity will take all the strongest corrective measures needed to cleanse our society of this sickness"."It is therefore with greater hope and all humility that I request you to pay heed to the voice of Anna Hazare," said Khan, pointing out that the nation was "slowly, but surely" collecting around the veteran social activist.
The actor also wrote to Hazare, giving his support to the cause.
"You are an inspiration to the youth of this country and my prayers are with you," he said.
"Like the country has supported the Indian cricket team in their struggle to win the World Cup, I hope and pray that your struggle, which infinitely more important and affects each and every one of us, will get an even greater support," added Aamir.
source: www.santabanta.com
I'm not a rocket that'd be launched repeatedly: Shraddha Kapoor
"I didn't consider my first film as my launch pad. People exaggerated that a star kid is being launched. I am not a rocket that I would be launched repeatedly. Honestly, in my first film, I got an opportunity to show that I can act and this is second one, " Shraddha told in an interview.
Y-films is launching a new face Taaha Shah opposite Shraddha in "Luv ka The End", which is slated to release May 6.
There was no dearth of big names in the cast of director Leena Yadav's "Teen Patti" - from Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan to Hollywood veteran Ben Kingsley were present in it, but they couldn't turn the movie into a profitable box office venture.
"I met people who had never heard of 'Teen Patti'. It hurts. I was really low when it didn't do well. First film really matters. If first film doesn't work, it's very difficult to get your second film, " said Shraddha.
"In fact, after 'Teen Patti', I auditioned for another film and I was finalised for it. But then someone else was taken for that part. I cried a lot, " she added.
Shraddha left no stones unturned to fair through the audition of "Luv ka The End".
"Luckily, I have got an opportunity to work in the film. I thought either you cry or do something about it. When I got a call for the audition, I made sure that anyhow I have to get it. So I worked very hard, I worked harder than I expected myself to do, " said Shraddha.
Y-Films, a youth films studio of Yash Raj Films, will give opportunities to fresh crop of directors and actors. It is ready with three films - "Luv Ka The End" and "Virus Diwan" - both directed by Bumpy and "Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge", which is directed by Nupur Asthana.
source: www.santabanta.com
Would Bollywood hotties fast in support of Anna Hazare?
FAST FACT
Veteran social activist Anna Hazare is on a fast-unto-death against corruption at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The 72-year-old activist is on a hunger strike demanding the government to draft a new Lokpal Bill, which will give more powers to the ombudsman to check corruption.
We might be notorious for being on the list of "most corrupt" countries in the world, but a resurgent India is changing its ways.
Realising this, B-Town actors and directors have pledged support to a cause being fought for by social activist Anna Hazare. Some even go as far as saying they would support him by fasting for a day. We check in and record their words for posterity...
Sonam Kapoor
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? Anna Hazare is fasting to make the anti-corruption or Lokpal bill more stringent.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? I do support his act of fasting as it's the best way of quietly making a point and putting it across. What he is doing is fantastic.
WOULD YOU FAST? If it was required and if I had to and to make a point: yes, I would fast. But I can't right now, as I have just been discharged from the hospital and am still very weak.
Ram Gopal Varma
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? I don't know who Anna Hazare is as generally I don't keep track of anyone, save for film people and gangsters. I don't know why Anna Hazare is fasting or for that matter what anyone else in the world is doing because I am busy in my work.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? No.
WOULD YOU FAST? I won't fast for anybody except to control my diet.
Karan Johar
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? The Anna Hazare movement to get the Lokpal Bill passed is the most important wake-up call that the nation has to answer.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? I am in complete support. I'm proud of my nation that is screaming for justice in unison.
WOULD YOU FAST? No reply.
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? I believe that it is a positive step towards eradicating corruption.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? I support the cause Anna Hazare is fighting. I will be wearing a black band on my wrist tomorrow to prove my solidarity and support.
WOULD YOU FAST FOR A DAY? I am working non-stop right now, so I do not think it will be possible to fast for an entire day. However on my next day off, I will do so 100 per cent.
Farah Khan
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? Anna Hazare is fasting to get the Lokpal Bill passed which will check corruption in the government.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? Yes. I guess fasting is the most non-violent way to get attention to this issue.
WOULD YOU FAST? Yes, if my fasting will help, it's a small price for an un-corrupt India.
Shilpa Shetty
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? To have the Lokpal Bill passed with strict alterations against corrupt politicians.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? Yes, I do. Completely. If standing up for him will be an improvement I encourage every Indian citizen though I am apolitical.
WOULD YOU FAST? I can't even fast for Karva Chauth. So, no. I can't.
Abhay Deol
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? To get the Lokpal Bill passed.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? Of course I support Anna!
WOULD YOU FAST? One day to show my support is nothing! I will fast for two days...
Anurag Kashyap
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? I know he is fasting to get the Lokpal Bill passed, the one that gives more power to the man in charge. And his selection process and his department should be independent of any political intervention like the Election Commission. Also, to fast-track such cases.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? I completely support him.
WOULD YOU FAST? Yes. I would fast for a day, if need be.
Minissha Lamba
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? What Anna Hazare is doing is fighting India's new freedom struggle.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? Yes.
WOULD YOU FAST? Fasting for a day is a very small price to pay.
Rakhi Sawant
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? It's a hunger strike. What he's doing for the country is remarkable.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? Yes, I don't know where Jantar Mantar is. But I would personally want to go and join Anna Hazare. I am even ready to go press his feet and make him feel better.
WOULD YOU FAST? No reply.
Riya Sen
WHY IS ANNA HAZARE FASTING? To get the Lokpal Bill passed.
DO YOU SUPPORT HIM? Though I believe that hunger strikes may create awareness among the masses, they may not tackle the root of the issue. But I am with him in his pledge for a corruption-free India.
WOULD YOU FAST? No reply.
Tweet talk
Farhan Akhtar
"I support Anna Hazare. Our country has suffered from corruption for too long... NOW is the time we get together and do something about it."
Shahid Kapoor
"You have our RESPECT Anna Hazare! And our support!"
Ranvir Shorey
"Anna Hazare's crusade is a litmus test to see if India has any grit left... Or have we become a country of corrupt schmoozers."
Shekhar KapurOverheard in Parliament "Don't worry, people have short memories, and their attention will now be only on IPL and not on Anna Hazare"
Sonakshi Sinha
"Usually ONE person that makes a difference. Mahatma Gandhi, Dalai Lama, Abe Lincoln, Mother Teresa. Kudos Anna Hazare. We're with you."
Ameesha Patel
"Hats off to Anna Hazare. It takes grit and determination to constantly push to clear a corrupt country."
These folks didn't respond
Kareena Kapoor
Ekta Kapoor
Katrina Kaif
Priyanka Chopra
Deepika Padukone
Lara Dutta
Kangna Ranaut
Shah Rukh Khan
Saif Ali Khan
source : www.santabanta.com
Being sexy isn't a taboo and I'm good at it: Sameera Reddy
With a laptop slung across my shoulder and a word file I'll need to get to know her better – I don't print by policy to do my bit for the environment – I head up to the 9th floor to meet my Valentine.
There's no traditional coyness as she ushers me in. I wade through a couple of salesmen trying to sell her a Blackberry, her managers and her mother to find a place to wait for her. Her off-screen persona is quite different from her on-screen one and there's no brawny, hirsute man in a safari suit hovering around me before he says, “Sameera will see you now.”
Instead the dusky beauty comes straight to the lovely patio on her balcony with an energy bar in hand and all set for a conversation. This isn't an ordinary Valentine's date as you must have noticed. I'm on a date with one of India's hottest starlets- Sameera Reddy.
I had noticed her to be taller than expected two weeks ago on the shoot. If that wasn't intimidating enough, her strong, tomboyish yet effortlessly elegant ladylike persona is disarming to say the least.
“It's hard being single and famous”, she adds. She's peeved that the last lot of bouquets had come in for her sister, Sushma. The youngest of the Reddy sisters, Sameera has been privy to the limelight for a long while now. She's aware that men shy away from her when they see her entourage of family, managers and assistants.
While in the north she's drooled over for her oomph factor in movies like Race and Musafir, in the south she's the intelligent girl next door from Vaaranam Aayiram or Ashok. Sameera means different things to different people and she knows how much the whole image matters to her adulating fans. She also knows that it is her business to keep them happy.
Sameera Reddy is the new Indian woman- confident about her sensuality and strong in her views. Currently a fan of Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton, being sexy isn't taboo for her. It's a business proposition.
“Being sexy is a brand in itself. If they (her northern audience) think that's all I'm good at, so be it. Hats off to Kim Kardashian for selling something she wasn't.” Her southern audience will have none of this though, with them being privy to a tamer side of the star. “I'm the absolute opposite of the roles I play.
I think I'm a lot like Cameron Diaz, who is sporty and funny. I'm extremely playful and boyish. It takes me a while to get into my “sexy” avatars because I'm so far from it. A good sense of humour means the world to me.” No, she isn't shuffling an underlying bipolar disorder, I tell myself. She's opening up about what makes her one of the coolest girls I've met in a long while.
“It killed me. They stole the entire spotlight.” It wasn't until her college days when her sisters' agent dangled the metaphorical carrot of travel luring her in front of the camera. With the promise of a trip to Australia and Rs. 6000, she set off to shoot a Pankaj Udhas music video, “Aur Aahista.”
“After the shoot I spent ten days travelling through Sydney and Gold Coast. When I returned the video had unexpectedly became a huge hit. The offers poured in after that.”
A trained Kathak dancer, her expressive eyes are an extension of the years of squinting, grimacing and smirking to tell whole stories – something even Clint Eastwood isn't a pro at after all these years. He's got the growling bit spot on though.
“I've learnt everything I know from Kathak and it has made me who I am today. It has not helped in just one single aspect – it's given me a good base for acting too. For example, let's just say the expressions I've learnt have helped in my professional and personal life, ” she giggles.
I'm now sceptical about how real that smile and laugh was. Not one to disappoint a fan, she talks about her love for comedy and how she uses it to de-stress every situation.
“Comic timing and a good sense of humour mean everything to me. I mimic people all the time just to make them smile. It's sad that I haven't done enough comedy roles though. I'm going to keep an eye out for them in the future.”
 While her stellar phone book might be every stalker's wet dream, the entertainment business means something else altogether to her.“Bollywood is really high-stress, it's a lot of anxiety and it's highly politically charged. It's all about cashing your chips right. Honestly, entertainment today, is less talent and more about marketing yourself. I find myself enamoured by this bronze diva, who I honestly swore never to talk to after the headache I got after watching Race. Then again, that wasn't meant for me. Her role as Meghna in Vaaranam Aayiram was the one that would appeal to me more. Unable to control my curiosity I want to know more about her ideal man. While she's not found him yet, she says she wants a man who is sure about himself. He has to be strong and yet leave enough room to have feelings too. I suck my gut in and try to make a last impression making a statement about it being a woman's world and not a man's. “It always and forever shall be a woman's world. Every successful man has a woman standing behind him; very subtly making him believe that all her ideas are actually his.” EPIC FAIL. I'd have rather got her number instead. source: www.santabanta.com | |
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Pakistan outplay Windies to storm into semis
DHAKA: Pakistan thrashed West Indies by ten wickets to move into the World Cup semi-finals here at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur on Wednesday.Chasing an easy target of 113 runs, openers Kamran Akmal and Mohammad Hafeez completed the Pakistan victory without being separated, in just 20.5 overs.
Kamran contributed 47 and Hafeez 61 as both made 113 runs together, Pakistan’s biggest opening stand of this tournament.
Earlier, batting first after winning the toss, the West Indies could not resist against the Pakistan spin attack, led by Shahid Afridi, and were bundled out for 112 in 43.3 overs.
Leg-spinner Afridi, already the tournament's leading wicket-taker, took his tally to 21 as he finished with four for 30, including two wickets off successive balls.
Off-spinners Mohammad Hafeez and Saeed Ajmal claimed two wickets each for 16 and 18, respectively, while pacers Umar Gul and Abdul Razzaq took a wicket each.
Veteran Shivnarine Chanderpaul, brought back to the team after being dropped in the previous match against India, was the only batsman to defy the spinners with a dour unbeaten 44 off 106 balls.
Except Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan (24) and Kemar Roach (16), no West Indian batsman could get into double figures
The West Indies were reduced to 71-8 before a 40-run stand between Chanderpaul and Roach, which helped the former champions surpass their lowest World Cup total of 93 against Kenya in Pune in 1996.
The West Indies never recovered from the disastrous start when they lost three top batsmen, Chris Gayle, Devon Smith and Darren Bravo, by the sixth over.
Gayle, returning to the side after recovering from an abdominal strain, made eight when he drove Umar Gul to mid-off where Afridi accepted the catch.
Hafeez, who shared the new ball with Gul, trapped Smith and Bravo leg-before in the space of four deliveries to open up the middle-order.
Shell-shocked by the early reverses, the West Indies groped to 36-3 after 15 overs, with Chanderpaul making just three runs off his first 27 deliveries.
Ramnaresh Sarwan and Chanderpaul put on 42 for the fourth wicket before Afridi destroyed the innings with three wickets in 11 balls.
Sarwan, dropped by Gul at mid-off when he was on 14, added 10 more to his score before Afridi gained revenge by having him caught at point by Umar Akmal.
source: www.geosuper.tv
Ajmal may be option to counter WI lefthanders
DHAKA: On the eve of what is Pakistan’s biggest World Cup game since their forgettable appearance in the 1999 final at Lord’s, Pakistan’s players sat over the dinner table at the Sheraton here on Tuesday and vowed to give their best in the quarterfinal clash against West Indies.They received a motivational talk from coach Waqar Younis and Shahid Afridi and later the captain said that the ‘boys are ready for the big game’.
“For most of our players, it’s the biggest game of their lives,” Afridi told ‘The News’. “They all know how important this World Cup is for our cricket and for our country and they are all pumped up to give their very best tomorrow,” he stressed.
Pakistan were thrashed by Australia in the 1999 World Cup final that turned out to be a huge mismatch and later the Greenshirts flopped miserably in the 2003 and 2007 editions.
But this time, when not many gave them much chance, Pakistan have been at their brilliant best and enter the quarterfinals after clinching the top spot in Pool A ahead of co-hosts Sri Lanka and defending champions Australia.
“I have played for 14 years and never seen the team train so seriously and focus on their game,” Afridi said while speaking at a press conference here at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. “The entire team is together in the dream to do well in the World Cup.
“Our aim at the start was to make the semifinals and I am confident we can achieve that. The expectations back home are high and we are determined not to let our supporters down.”
Afridi is looking forward to stick to the ‘winning combination’ that helped the team beat Zimbabwe and Australia in the last couple of games but at the dinner meeting the idea of bringing in off-spinner Saeed Ajmal was seriously discussed.
Pakistan team’s think-tank believes that Ajmal can help tackle the four left-handers in the West Indian top order. Ajmal, they believe could be even more useful that left-armer Abdur Rehman, who is likely to sit out of the last-eight clash.
Afridi, however, refrained from confirming it saying that a final decision will taken this morning.
He made it clear that Pakistan’s won’t be taking anything for granted.
“We will not take the West Indies lightly. Any team is capable of winning on their day, there are no second chances in a knock-out match. I think they are a very good side.”
Afridi is urging his batters to get their acts together.
“Our success so far has been entirely due to the bowlers, who have done a very good job,” said Afridi. “I myself have not batted well and will focus on that tomorrow.”
Akmal has scored 211 runs at 52.75 and is Pakistan’s top scorer in the event. Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq scored prolifically when the event began but didn’t make any big contributions in the last three games.
The skipper promised he will do better with the bat after contributing just 65 runs in the last six games. “I know how important my batting is for the team and I will try to get some runs on the board.”
Afridi made it clear that he and his team is just focusing on today’s game, stressing that he is not concerned about a possible semifinal clash against old rivals India. “Our entire focus is on winning the quarterfinal, I am not even thinking of the next match, whether it is India or Australia,” he said.
West Indies bowled out Bangladesh for just 58 on their way to a nine-wicket triumph here at Shere Bangla in a group match but Afridi made it clear that the result has no significance ahead of the quarterfinal.
“That was Bangladesh, this is Pakistan,” he said. “It’s not that we are playing for the first time in these conditions. We feel at home anywhere in the sub-continent.”
West Indies have lost five of their last six matches against Pakistan and have won only three of their last 16 matches since 2005.
Teams (likely):
Pakistan: Shahid Afridi (captain), Kamran Akmal (wk), Mohammad Hafeez, Asad Shafiq, Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq, Umar Akmal, Abdul Razzaq, Saeed Ajmal, Umar Gul, Wahab Riaz.
West Indies: Darren Sammy (captain), Chris Gayle, Devon Smith, Darren Bravo, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Kieron Pollard, Devon Thomas (wk), Andre Russell, Sulieman Benn, Kemar Roach, Devendra Bishoo.
source: www.geosuper.tv
Pakistan on rampage against Windies
Wednesday.
After captain Darren Sammy won the toss and elected to bat, West Indies openers Chris Gayle and Devon Smith opened the innings, with two fours in two overs but pacer Umar Gul got an early breakthrough dismissing Gayle, caught at mid-off by captain Shahid Afridi for eight and in the next over off-break bolwer Mohammad Hafeez struck twice getting Smith out, lbw for seven and Darren Bravo, lbw for first ball duck.
The West Indies could make only 16 runs during the powerplay in the first five overs and then could score just two in the next five.
Gul claimed one wicket for eleven and Hafeez two for seven in their five overs each as experienced batsmen Ramnaresh Sarwan and Shivnarine Chanderpaul are at the crease 2 and nought.
The winners of the match will face either India or Australia in the semi-finals.
The West Indies welcomed back opener Chris Gayle and fast bowler Kemar Roach, who both missed the last league match against India due to injury and illness respectively.
Also included was veteran batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul as the West Indies omitted left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn, fast bowler Andre Russell and batsman Kirk Edwards.
Pakistan made one change from their winning combination against Australia, bringing in off-spinner Saeed Ajmal in place of left-arm spinner Abdur Rehman.
source: www.geosuper.tv
Pakistan bowl Windies out for 112
DHAKA: Pakistan dismissed West Indies for 112 runs in the first quarter-finals of the ICC World Cup 2011 here at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur on Wednesday.After captain Darren Sammy won the toss and elected to bat, West Indies could not resist against the Pakistan spin trio of Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez and Saeed Ajmal and were all out in 43.3 overs, giving Pakistan an easy target of 113.
However, their lowest total in the World Cup remained 93, made against Kenya at Pune in 1996.
Afridi finished on four for 30, taking his tournament record tally to 21 while Ajmal playing for the first time in the tournament captured two for 18 and Hafeez, who opened the bowling with Umar Gul, got two for 16.
Except Shivnarine Chanderpaul (44 not out), Ramnaresh Sarwan (24) and Kemar Roach (16), no West Indian batsman could get into double figures after pace-bowler Umatr Gul made an early break through, getting Chris Gayle out for eight in the third over of the match.
Chanderpaul added 42 runs for the fourth wicket with Sarwan and 40 for the ninth wicket with tail-ender Roach.
source: www.geosuper.tv
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