Search is on for a new face in the sequel of Raaz - Mukesh Bhatt.
28-Jan-2008
Director Mohit Suri with Emraan Hashmi on location.After the official announcement of the sequel of Bipasha Basu and Dino Moria starrer Raaz by Vishesh Films, Mukesh Bhatt and director Mohit Suri are searching for the lead actress for their sequel. According to Mukesh Bhatt, "we have already approached some of the actress' for this role but due to their busy schedules it couldn't materialized. Options are also open for new face opposite to Emraan Hashmi". Mukesh Bhatt ruled out that they approached Bipasha for the sequel. Labels: News Anuranan-Anuranan – the blockbuster Bengali Film now in Hindi
27-Jan-2008
Anuranan has a great star cast – Rahul Bose, Raima Sen, Rituparna Sengupta, Rajat Kapoor Shemaroo Entertainment is looking forward to the theatrical release of 'Anuranan' in Hindi – the Bengali film which remarkably ran for 100 days in theatres in Kolkata. Presented by Screenplay Films and Shemaroo Entertainment, this film is the directorial debut of Bengali film-maker – Aniruddha Roy-Chowdhury. Anuranan is produced by Jeet Bannerjee, Indrani Mukerjee and the Director himself. The lead casts in the film are Rahul Bose, Rituparna Sengupta, Raima Sen and Rajat Kapoor. With stunning performances by them, Anuranan's success story is obvious.Anuranan has been screened at several prestigious festivals. Attached find a list of the same, along with the film synopsis. The director Aniruddha Roy-Chowdhury is a popular ad filmmaker and has done wonders with brands like Coca – Cola, Nestle, Britannia, Lever Brothers, Hero Honda and Philips among many others. Aniruddha's treatment and personal touch given to this piece of art are bound to strike a personal chord among audiences at many points of the film. Hiren Gada, Director, Shemaroo Entertainment shares his thoughts, 'Anuranan has set a benchmark today among Bengali film-makers. It has certainly touched the hearts of the Bengali masses and is still fresh and lingering in the minds of people. It is based on the fantastic reviews the film got, that we decided to go ahead with Anuranan's Hindi version. Moreover Anuranan's plot and cast are such that our Hindi audiences will certainly be able to connect to the same'. Director Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury adds, 'Anuranan, my first film has been like a breath of fresh air for me, after the umpteen ad films that I created. It feels great to know that the film did well and has been appreciated by audiences. After being acknowledged in the various festivals, both Shemaroo and Screenplay believes that it is time Anuranan should get noticed nationally.' On the International front, Shemaroo has taken classic Bollywood Films around the globe to Hindi Film fans all over the world. The demand for Shemaroo products has been phenomenal in the US, U.K., Singapore, Fiji, UAE, Australian markets and newly developed markets like East European & North African as well. On the regional front too Shemaroo Entertainment's presence has made a difference. Their first regional film – ' Majha Navra Tujhi Baiko' - was the highest grosser Marathi Film in 2006. The recent 'Bakula Namdeo Ghotale' also made waves in the box-office. Apart from this, the super duper hit Bengali Film 'Anuranan' – being hailed as the new wave of Bengali Cinema – is yet another Shemaroo banner. Labels: News Discovery Channel to launch 'Discovery Atlas' on Republic Day
25-Jan-2008
Kochi, Jan 24 (ANI): Discovery Channel will launch 'Discovery Atlas', a portrait of the world's greatest and unique nations seen through the lives of their extraordinary people, on Republic Day. Starting with two-hour episode on India named 'India Revealed', the series will be narrated by film director Mira Nair. "'Discovery Atlas', one of the most ambitious high-definition projects commissioned, provides exceptional narrative, stunning imagery and cutting-edge special effects to capture the world like never before," said Rajiv Bakshi, Associate Director, Marketing and Communications Discovery Communications India. The series creates a complete visual record of the history, civilization, geography, industry, technology and people of the world. Apart from India, there will be shows on China, Australia, Mexico, Italy, South Africa and Brazil. Each two-hour episode is narrated by a celebrity, among them are Academy Award Winning 'Gladiator' actor Russel Crowe (Australia Revealed), renowned film director Mira Nair (India Revealed), three-time Emmy award winner James Spader (China Revealed), Oscar nominee and multiple award winner Edward James Olmos (Mexico Revealed), Episodes on Russia, France, Japan and Egypt are currently under production and will air later in the year. The production team of Discovery Atlas traveled to different locations within each country using various forms of transportation, including hot air balloons, propeller planes, bamboo rafts, canoes, riverboats, helicopters, bicycle taxis, motorbike taxis and subways. "As India strives to join the leading edge of the world's powers, century old conventions are coming under pressure forcing deep shifts and changes within the Indian society. 'India Revealed' will capture all those shifts and changes, tensions and conflicts," Bakshi said. Discovery Communications is the number-one non-fiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in over 170 countries. (ANI) --MP Labels: News Import of Indian movies should be restricted: Pak Senate Committee
23-Jan-2008
Islamabad, Jan 23 (ANI): The Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Culture, Senator Zafar Iqbal Chaudhry has said that the Government should take all stakeholders into confidence before taking a final decision on the import and exhibition of Indian films in Pakistan. According to The News, the committee suggested that the import of movies should be done without harming Pakistan's religious and cultural norms and values. The committee said that Pakistani producers must try to win their share of the large Indian market, as it was fertile enough to accommodate good Pakistani Urdu and Punjabi movies. The committee expressed dismay over cable operators openly telecasting Indian movies despite a complete ban on such movies since 1965. (ANI) --MP Labels: News PICKLE felicitates Eros International as Company of the Year
18-Jan-2008
Mumbai, January 2008: Eros International, the London AIM listed leading integrated company within the Indian media & entertainment sector has been featured as the ‘Company of the Year’ in PICKLE, the Indian entertainment business guide, in its handbook 2008. Owing to the company’s acumen for alliances, partnerships and acquisitions, Eros has been qualified as the prestigious magazine’s pick of the year. In addition, the magazine also features Chairman and CEO, Mr. Kishore Lulla – Eros International in Power 100, a column that covers business leaders and reel icons who are leaving an imprint on the generations ahead. About Eros International plc Eros International plc is an established global player in the fast-growing Indian media and entertainment arena. Being vertically integrated means that Eros not only produces and commissions films like studios but it also distributes and exploits films across formats globally via cinemas, home entertainment, television formats and new media. Established in 1977, Eros International has three decades of market leadership in creating a global platform for Indian cinema. The company operates in over 50 countries with worldwide offices in India, UK, USA, Dubai, Australia, Fiji and Isle of Man. It has built a successful business model around the release of 30-40 new films every year and the exploitation of a film library containing more than 1,300 titles, making it one of the largest content owners in the business. Global Distribution, Motion Pictures, Music, Home Entertainment, e-Television, New Media and Animation are the main Strategic Business Units of Eros. Eros successfully completes its 30th year in the business with the Vision of consolidating the fragmented industry, the Strategy of operating Labels: Eros, News Salman Khan unveils his wax statue in Madame Tussauds
16-Jan-2008
London, Jan 16 (ANI): Bollywood actor Salman Khan unveiled his wax figure at Madame Tussauds Museum in London amid his fans on Tuesday. The actor had all the praise for the statue and appreciated the hard work that has gone into its making. "I have just started painting and I know how difficult it is to get something so perfect. The talent, the patience, the hard work which has gone into this sculpture, is phenomenal," said Salman. The crowd went into a frenzy when the actor got down from his car. "I think he is gorgeous and best bachelor around at the moment," said Maria. Echoing similar sentiments was another fan of Salman who was keen to hug him. "He is fantastic, even his presence on the screen is fantastic. His eyes, his body are just fantastic I just want to hug him," said Deepa. In the race to reach the famous waxwork museum of Madame Tussauds, Salman beat nine other mega stars - including Madhuri Dixit, Hrithik Roshan, Lata Mangeshkar and Abhishek Bachchan, after a public poll conducted last summer. The wax statue of Salman Khan stands in a special Bollywood section alongside those of three other actors - Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Shah Rukh Khan. The star was measured and photographed by expert sculptors in Mumbai last October to kick-start painstaking work on his wax double. Salman, started his film career way back in 1998 and has over 55 films to his credit till date. The year 2007 saw his movie 'Partner' making moolah at the box office. The museum officials hope that the installation of the new statue will raise Salman's popularity in the West. (ANI) --MP Labels: News, Salman-Khan Halla Bol offers the public a thinking cap
14-Jan-2008
New Delhi, Jan.14 (ANI): At a time when people in the cosmopolitan cities have developed a strange habit of turning deaf just when they are most needed, the new-age cinema seems to be jolting society to stand up and be counted against rogues with a resounding echo...Halla Bol!!!! Director Rajkumar Santoshi and his star cast involving Pankaj Kapur, Ajay Devgan and Vidya Balan deserve kudos for raising many serious concerns affecting just about anyone and everyone's life in their latest movie Halla Bol. The movie revolves around the murder of a little known girl in Mumbai during a celeb party. Her family is found wanting for any witness, despite the fact that she is killed in front of so many eyes. Despite initial hiccups for the fear for its negative effect on his filmi career, how the protagonist finally listens to his conscience is all there to watch. Besides its tiny entertainment quotient, Halla Bol is basically a serious comment on the 'who cares' attitude of the public that leaves so many innocent and honest people all alone to fight injustice in courts and police stations. Halla Bol puts the audience in the confession box for playing mute spectators despite such grave instances of crime, and pushes them hard to introspect for nearly three hours. The film dares to be distinct and is a slap on public face for rapidly becoming a dead society to sound 'practical' at the cost of someone's life or modesty. The film attempts to showcase the upwardly mobile and so called educated class, a mirror that they invariably avoid fearing a loss of face. Though the film has its share of abrupt endings or beginnings of sequences, the film director deserves appreciation for limiting unwanted sex or romance and valuing the audience's serious mood. Still, he would have done fair justice to the issues raised in Halla Bol had the film tried to be more exact and elaborate in hitting at the ills of 'modern' society. Pankaj Kapur, playing a dacoit-turned-a stage drama director called "Sidhu", impresses the audience with his inimitable dialogue delivery. Despite his shorter than expected role in the film, he successfully mesmerises with his acting magic that he displayed in films like "Ek Doctor Ki Maut", "Maqbool", "Dharma" and comedy serials like "Zabaan Sambhal Ke" and "Office Office". "Sidhu" questions the public, the media, the system for their irresponsible roles in society. He asks why is that everyone starts pretending to be deaf, dumb and blind whenever it comes to standing up for justice for others? The film won everyone's loud approval with noisy rounds of claps almost every 15 to 20 minutes mainly for its dialogues. But a little too much on the face adjectives perhaps derived from the roadside could have been avoided. Be it a scene where the protagonist Ajay Devgan, who plays hero named Samir Khan a.k.a Ashfaaq, is shown urinating in the villain's drawing room in the open or Vidya Balan, who plays his wife in the film, expressing her angst before a media crew using words like "because my husband has got balls" or Pankaj Kapur saying: "Apnon ke dard per to har koi ro leta hai ....Asli insaan to wo hai jise doosron ke dard par bhi dard ho" won the thunderous applause of the audience. Ajay Devgan, who impressed in the recent "Omkara" and Pankaj Kapur of the recent "Dharma" fame, showcase how they can do their country proud even at the Oscars, provided their work is given a fair opportunity to contest in their own country. If '07 saw Shahrukh Khan starrer Chak De...India earning everyone's appreciation, '08 may be remembered for Halla Bol, which leaves a deep impact on awakening a dead society and encouraging people to take hoodlums to task with a roaring.....Halla Bollllllllllllllllllllllll!! (ANI) --MP Labels: News Banned Pak play staged in Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 13 (ANI): 'Burqavaganza', a play banned in Pakistan, was staged at the ongoing annual theatre festival here. The satirical play portrayed 'burqa', the all-covering head-to-toe garment worn by conservative Muslim women, as a symbol of the sufferings faced by women in the society. Play Director Shahid Nadeem said that he did not care for the ban imposed on the play and would continue to stage it wherever he can find people, who can appreciate it. "It is a take on our obsession with covering women's face and also covering true intentions and covering vested interests with religious or political protestations. My play aims to poke fun at the same. In 'Burqavaganza', we have used 'burqa' as a metaphor to comment on our society," said Nadeem. In the play, young men and women wore the 'burqa' to go out on secret dates, and it featured a character called 'Burqa bin Badin'. The play also featured police officials, who found it difficult to identify criminals as all the suspects were wearing veils. Locals in Delhi thronged the auditorium and were visibly excited. The play was also criticised by a few viewers. "Some of the performers have tried to ridicule the customs and traditions. The pointless traditions have no point to be there, but then there is a way to express your protest against them. Towards the end of play it sounds to be a ridicule," said Kuljeet Singh, a theatre artist. Kunal, a viewer, appreciated the efforts to highlight a social cause, but felt that the comedy was in bad taste. "The play criticises the 'burqa' culture. It is a comedy. But here, the comedy is being celebrated. This is wrong. The words used come across as cheap many a times. The comedy ends up being in bad taste," said Kunal, a viewer. Irate lawmakers in Pakistan had persuaded the government to stop the theatre group from staging it. (ANI) --MP Labels: News Ludhiana students make a documentary film on AIDS
12-Jan-2008
Ludhiana, Jan.10 (ANI): A group of schoolchildren here have made a documentary film on AIDS and given their creative instincts an expression through mass media for public awareness. Made by students of Ryan International School, the film named "Choti Si Aasha" (a little hope), is intended to enable people understand about the dreaded AIDS. It was screened at the PVR cinema in Ludhiana recently. Students were motivated to attempt a documentary film after they along with other staff were briefed about AIDS by school authorities. They, later on, decided to make a film for public awareness. "This time we felt, in Ludhiana, we should come out with a message for society. People are always unaware of certain things. This is a social cause. People are not aware so we felt to give a message through the film," said Grace Pinto, Director, Ryan International School, Ludhiana. Parents of the students took pride in the fact that their children were part of such an endeavour. "My kids worked in this film. I feel very proud because they worked for a great cause and I think all the schools should get a message and make such programs so that the kids get awareness about this so that our whole country get s transformed," said Rajneesh, mother of a student. (ANI) --MP Labels: News England pacers on their way to Bollywood
03-Jan-2008
London, Jan 3 (ANI): England fast bowlers Sajid Mahmood and Simon Jones are set to make their big-screen debuts in a Bollywood movie about cricket. The sportmen have been invited to play themselves in 'Victory', a film about a boy who realises his ambition of playing for India. The film will star some of the biggest names in Bollywood as well as a host of current and former cricketers from around the world. Mahmood, of Lancashire, and Worcestershire paceman Jones will line up alongside the Indian cricket team, Australians Brett Lee, Mike Hussey, Jason Gillespie and Allan Border, and New Zealanders Craig McMillan, Darly Tuffey, Nathan Astle and Martin Crowe. The film, which also features Bollywood newcomer Harman Baweja and actress Amrita Rao, is set to be released later this year. "I was quite surprised when approached to be involved, but it's a great opportunity to do something very different," BBC quoted Mahmood, as saying. "I don't have a big role in the movie, I play myself and bowl - that can't be too difficult to do!" he added. (ANI) Labels: News Mahesh Bhatt roped in for film on Benazir Bhutto
Karachi, Jan 1 (ANI): A feature film based on the life of late Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto has been announced by a Karachi-based private production, in collaboration with renowned Indian filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt. Distinguished Pakistani writer and poet Aqeel Ahmad Ruby will pen the script for the film, according to Skies Unlimited Films. Aneela Khan, the producer of the production company, said that the film is to be completed in partnership with Bhatt, reports the Daily Times. Bhutto was assassinated on Dec 27 during a suicide attack on a party rally in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area. Initial reports said that Bhutto died while being taken to a hospital. At least 20 Pakistan People's Party (PPP) activists were also killed in the suicide attack. Bhitto was buried in her ancestral home in the village of Garhi Khuda Bakhsh. (ANI) Labels: News Indian, Pakistani labourers enjoying Bollywood nites in the UAE
01-Jan-2008
Dubai, Dec.31 (ANI): Indian and Pakistani labourers working in the United Arab Emirates are using their weekends to watch some of their favourite Bollywood movies. A majority of these labourers enjoy these Indian film blockbusters on the wide screen for free. For the past five weeks, the Millionaire Movie Nights have been organised by Postcard Millionaire as part of its community entertainment initiative. It includes screenings of well-known Bollywood movies at various labour accommodation sites, reports The Gulf News. Chote Mian Bade Mian, Munnabhai MBBS, Khalnayak, Lagaan and Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander were the Bollywood hits screened at some of the labour accommodation sites. Indians and Pakistanis are unanimous in their appreciation about watching these movies out in the open. "It helps to build a good atmosphere and brings us together," the paper quoted Parveez Khan, a Pakistani labourer, as saying. "It was a pleasure to witness the smiles and laughter as every site was transformed into a movie theatre with viewers sharing their best moments and connecting more deeply," added Christian Franzelin, CEO, Millionaire Co. (ANI) -AA Labels: News Bollywood films being well received by cinegoers in Pakistan
London, Dec 31 (ANI): Bollywood is being very well received in Pakistan, with each passing year bringing Indian films closer to Pakistani cinemagoers. The Defence Housing Authority (DHA) cinema had recently screened a few Indian films in Pakistan at the Sozo World cinema, which generated huge revenues, thanks to the delighted viewers, reports the Daily Times. The whole trend of screening Indian films began in 2006 when Mughul-E-Azam and Taj Mahal were screened at the Sozo World cinema, however in comparison to 2007, the number of cinemagoers was small. The reason behind the small number was - it was not until 2007 that investments were made in new films that could attract the youth of Pakistan. Secretary DHA Colonel Amir said that the screening of Indian films generated positive feedback, adding that 70 percent of the cinemagoers were women, and only Sundays witnessed mixed crowds. He also added the government had no objection to the screening of foreign films until the local cinema did not come up to the mark. (ANI) 1-- -AA Labels: News Animation film "Hanuman Returns" hits theatres
29-Dec-2007
New Delhi/Mumbai, Dec 28 (ANI): Animation film "Hanuman Returns", a sequel to the movie "Hanuman," based on mythical Hindu God Hanuman, was released in theatres across the country on Friday. "Hanuman Returns" is primarily a 2D animated film with a lot of special effects. The film shows return of Hanuman in the current age to save the planet Earth from destruction. Bollywood film director Nagesh Kukunoor was highly impressed with the film. He said: "One of the coolest things that I have found about Hinduism is that the gods would always be contemporary and I find it really nice. As much as we worship them the concept of being amongst them has always been there." The film is written and directed by Anurag Kashyap. The pre-production work was done at Percept Picture Company. The film will be made in other languages, including English, Bhojpuri, Tamil and Telugu, besides Hindi. On his choice of subject for the animation movie, Kashyap, said: "I have read Ramayana and Mahabharat, and I know the relevant details. My biggest challenge was to take things from mythology and adapt them to the contemporary scenario." There was a mixed reaction to the movie from a cross-section of people. "It was brilliant that they tried to lend a message to the kids about protecting the nature. The kids really enjoyed it," said Kanika, a movie buff. On the other hand, some moviegoers felt that the film was confusing. "Honestly, I did not understand some parts of this movie," said Sargam, a child. Technically, the animation quality of the movie is okay, but falls short of those made abroad. (ANI) - AY Labels: News A Rising Talent Harsh Nagar is all set to make his entry in Bollywood
15-Dec-2007
Master Harsh Nagar- a 16 year old our own Delhi guy is all set to make his entry in Bollywood with his dedicated performances and fast learning skills. After his stunning performance at Pragati Maidan, Trade Fair he spotted in capital recently. Versatile gifted artist Harsh, who started performing at the tender
age of 5, since than he never looked back and participated in many
talent shows, stage performances. He says, "my dream is to become an
actor and I am going to New York to get training in acting. Apart from
being a good artist one has to be physically fit to become a good
actor". He is also started learning Taek-won-do a Korean Martial Art from the
age of 7; he did prove his skill and dedication in this filed also by
holding a Black Belt and becoming National Player. Last summer he
represented India in "Taekwondo British Open" a meet organized by UK
Sports Development Authority in Manchester, UK where he brought Silver
Medal. Right from his childhood he has strong desire and dream to be a star
and he got all inspiration and support from his father Shri B.S. Nagar
(Advocate of all time super star Amitabh Bachchan). Harsh has won the "Junior Mr. Noida Title" and later on performed in a
beauty contest in Radison, Noida where he has awarded with "Young
Achiever's Award" by Mrs. Nafisa Ali, Chairperson of Children's Film
Society of India. Harsh's Father B.S.Nagar said that he is all set to
extend entire support to full fill his son's desires. Mr. Ajaay K Gupta, director Marche' Global Solution introduced a
talent search activity in a move for search of talent hunt called
"Pratibha Ek Khoj" in 2005 jointly with Priyagold and India Trade
Promotion Organization, where highly talented participants from
various 24 institutions participated. After series of rounds, Harsh
was considered the Best Talent out of them and got the "Excellence
Awarded". Few days back a musical night was organized by "Marche"
Global Solution jointly with Indian Trade Promotion at Trade Fair;
Hansdhwani Open Theater. Harsh Nagar was on fire with his electrifying
performance to enthrall more than 7,000 audiences including known
personalities from Mumbai and Delhi. He says, Hrithik Roshan is his favorite as he has good height as
compared to other actors and he dance very well. His favorite actress
is Preeti Zinta. Labels: News Uphaar tragedy: High Court issues notice to CBI
11-Dec-2007
New Delhi, Dec 11 (ANI): The Delhi High Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the 1997 Uphaar Cinema hall fire tragedy. The court has also issued notice to the Association of Victims of the Uphaar Tragedy (AVUT) on a petition challenging the trial court's verdict in the Uphaar fire case. Justice S N Dhingra sought response from the CBI and the AVUT on a petition filed by Sushil Ansal, one of 12 convicts in the case. The court has posted the matter for next hearing on January 2. The court expressed its inability to give early hearing of the case as requested by the CBI. A Delhi Sessions Court on November 23 awarded the owners of Uphaar Cinema hall, Gopal and Sushil Ansal, with two years of imprisonment in connection with the 1997 cinema hall fire tragedy that left 59 people dead and over hundred people injured. Each of the convicted brothers were fined rupees 5,000 and given bail on an additional rupees 25,000 bond. They both were held guilty of criminal negligence in the case. Seven other convicts in the case have been given seven years of imprisonment, and remaining three of the twelve convicts have been given two years of imprisonment. Ten other accused in the case are R. K. Sharma, Ajit Chaudhary, N. S. Chopra, Manmohan Uniyal, Shyam Sunder Sharma, N. D. Tiwari, Hanswaroop Panwar, B. M. Satija, A. K. Gera and Beer Singh. The tragedy took place on June 13, 1997 during the screening of the Hindi film, "Border." The theatre was engulfed when an overheated generator burst in the basement of the building. Men, women and children all scampered to rush out of the four cinema hall exits. (ANI) - AY Labels: News Miss India 2004 Sayali Bhagat about her film 'Good Luck'
10-Dec-2007
"I am playing Public Relation Officer's role in this film"- Sayali Bhagat. Former Miss India Sayali Bhagat is in buzz these days not only because of her soon to be released film 'Good Luck' but, also because of her affaire with her co-star Areyman Ramsay. Her previous movie 'The Train' has came and also went like a train without doing much at Box Office. Film Good Luck is all set to be in theaters to entertain which has ingredients like Ranvir Shorey, Lucky Ali, Archana Puran Singh, Sharat Saxena and Mustaq Khan in it, to make a perfect comic recipe. Film Good Luck will decide Sayali's future in Bollywood, produced by Jagdish Sharma and directed by ' Aashiq Banaya Aapne' and 'Dil Diya Hai' fame Aaditya Datt. Kesu Ramsay's son Areyman Ramsay is opposite to Sayali in this film, here is a synopsis of her conversation with us during her visit to capital………….. Tell us some thing about your film 'Good Luck? As the title 'Good Luck' suggests, this entire movie revolves around luck and a situational romantic comedy; hence every character of this movie creates a situation which creates rib-tickling comedy. This movie has a magical touch and every character run after that. What is your role in this film? Well, I am in the lead role of this film as a Public Relation Officer (PRO), who is short tempered, later she becomes very simple after facing certain situations and due to some twists in the film. How was your on location experience especially working with Director Aaditya Datt? Aaditya has made his own identity in Film Industry with films like 'Aashiq Banaya Aapne' and 'Dil Diya Hai'. He is young and he knows what kind of movie audience will like and it was nice working with him. All to gather it was a great experience to work with artists like Lucky Ali, Ranvir Shorey, Archana Puran Singh (Playing Tarot Card Reader in this film). There is a buzz doing rounds that you are having an affair with your co star of this film Areyman Ramsay, is that true? Replied with a grin, See, I am working with Areyman and we need to talk while working together so we talk, need something to talk. What type of roles and movies you are looking for? I am a beginner, and I would love to do all sort of characters to prove my versatility in acting, an actor is all about that only, but at the same time they need to be appreciated by the audiences. Don't you think it took long time to get offers after winning the Miss India-2004 contest? Yes, it took time because I wanted to do good films though they are less in number. My first movie was 'The Train' and now I completed Good Luck. Would you prefer to do Item Numbers? Of course, why not, today item numbers turned a necessity of any film, there are times where, an item number gets popularity more than that of a movie, like ' Chamma Chamma', ' Kajrare Kajrare', 'Ishq Samandar', 'Babuji Zara Dheere Chalo' etc. We have heard that you are very much inspired by Baba Amte? Yes, Baba Amte is always been a source of inspiration for me. He is my role model and he fought for common man's right. What ever he does is really appreciable. Who is your favorite heroine and with which hero you would like to work? I like Jaya Bahaduri, Rekha and Wahida Rehman, in this era Kajol, Rani and Aishwarya. As far as actors are concerned I would like to work with King Khan Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan because they are my favorite. -AA Labels: News Films can promote peace between India and Pakistan
05-Dec-2007
Lahore, Dec 4 (ANI): Films can play a pivotal role in promoting peace between India and Pakistan, Bollywood film producer Anwar Jamal has said. "Cinema can play an important role in condemning violence. It can be a new beginning for both countries," the Daily Times quoted Jamal, as saying. "We should understand that India and Pakistan are fundamentally different because they have different religions and ideologies. It is only art that can bring them closer," he added. On both sides, people want to meet their loved ones, said Jamal, adding, "Some of my close relatives lived in Karachi before the Partition. I want to meet them, but do not know if they are still alive." "Hope is the only way to success and creativity. Our cinema should give hope to the people," he said Jamal, who attended the World Performing Arts Festival held here from November 22 to December 2, said Pakistan had produced wonderful writers like Intezar Hussain, Ahmed Nadeem Qasmi, Faiz Ahmed Faiz and singers like Tina Sani, Abida Parveen and Iqbal Bano, but something important needs to take place in filmmaking. "Pakistanis are inspired by Bollywood cinema, but they don't try to improve their own cinema," Jamal said. Several people, including producer Govind Nihalani, had talked about co-production, he said. "Co-production does not mean only financing and technology; it includes actors, musicians, poets, script writers," Jamal added. (ANI) --MP Labels: News Actor-director Mangal Dhillon wants to promote Punjab's culture in his movies
03-Dec-2007
Ludhiana, Dec 2 (ANI): Bollywood actor-director Mangal Dhillon cherishes a dream of working for the history and culture of Punjab. "The world's most effective medium is film. By utilising that medium,
we want to spread a message and make the masses aware (of Punjab's
culture) so the future goes well," said Dhillon. Dhillon is presently making a film, 'Saka Sirhand', to commemorate the
martyrdom of Sahibzadas, the four sons of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru
Gobind Singh, who sacrificed their lives for Sikhism against the
tyranny of the Moghul rule. He also wishes to highlight the farmers' problems, issues of migrant
labourers in Punjab and the evil of female foeticide through his
films. Another Dhillon's film, 'A Foreign Tribute to Sikhi', is based on
foreigners converting to Sikhism. Dhillon now wants to be baptized a Sikh. "The films that I will produce will have me in the lead role of a
Sikh. For that I will keep a beard and wear a turban. I will visit
Akal Takth Sahib in Amritsar to switch over to a baptized Sikh," said
Dhillon. Owning a versatile personality, Dhillon was born in a village in
Punjab's Faridkot District. After beginning his acting career in theatre and television serials,
Dhillon is today an actor, a writer, a producer, a director and a
poet. He has acted in about 30 Bollywood films. Although, at the start of his career he believed in one's personal
qualities, Dhillon today feels that destiny has a big role to play in
one's life. "When I reached Mumbai after completing my training in acting and
theatre, I thought all that one requires to be successful in Bollywood
is talent backed by personality, confidence, sensitivity, and stage
and screen presence. But after a few years I realise that its destiny
which makes one successful. If destiny and time are with you then your
minus points turn into plus points," said Dhillon. (ANI)
--MP Labels: News English version of 'O Jerusalem' screened in Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 2 (ANI): The English version of 'O Jerusalem', a film based on the novel written by noted authors Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins set in the backdrop of the conflict between Arabs and Jews, was screened in the Capital. The Elie Chouraqui-directed movie was screened on the occasion of the
launch of the revised and enlarged Indian edition of 'O Jerusalem'
with photo layout and in-depth preface by Lapierre on Saturday. While the cinematic adaptation in French was released in 2006, the
English adaptation was released in the US in October 2007. "We are very proud tonight, first time in India to show our friends,
journalist friends of Delhi. This movie has been adapted from my book
'O Jerusalem'. We think it's very objective film and it gives very
good visuals in portion of what problems are still there in Israel and
Palestine," said Lapierre. The author added that it took them good 26 years to capture the
historic struggle on celluloid, which started during the Israeli-Arab
conflict in 1948. The movie is an epic drama, re-creating the historic struggle
surrounding the creation of the State of Israel in 1948. The film is
told from the alternating viewpoints of the Jews, Arabs and Brits, all
of who collide in their fight for the control of Jerusalem, while
bringing to the forefront themes of courage, terrorism, deprivation,
politics and a strong sense of morality. Their involvement takes them from the streets of New York to The Holy
Land, where they risk their lives making incredible sacrifices along
the way to fight for what they believe in, as the city of their dreams
teeters on the brink of destruction. "I think this film captures not only the pathos of the whole thing but
also demonstrates in a very, in a totally incredible passion how
religions ought to bring people together rather than separate them or
destroy millions in the process," said M. Vardarajan, former
secretary, culture department of the Government of India. "As they said one day Jerusalem will becomes a city of peace, I would
just like to add that not only Jerusalem but the world becomes a world
of peace," Vardarajan added. The book 'O Jerusalem' was first published in 1978 and now 2008
version brings to the limelight again the turmoil of May 1948, when
the British left Palestine, and blood and fire engulfed Jerusalem. The
book's newness lies in the intimate, heart-wrenching preface by
Dominique Lapierre. "I admire him greatly. He's a great talent. He's a great man. He's a
good man. And that's the main thing. If this movie could bring out
some peace, it will be wonderful. That's my hope for this," says
Petreshia Phantam, an American. The author is well acclaimed for his solo book 'City of Joy' that also
motivated him to start and fund City of Joy Aid, a rescue,
rehabilitation, and development action to improve the life of the
underprivileged of Kolkata and rural Bengal in India. The duo enjoys the worldwide fame as the authors of several
best-selling books on modern history, including 'Freedom at Midnight'
and 'Is Paris Burning'. (ANI)
--MP Labels: News Indian filmmakers have high hopes for the future of Pakistani films
01-Dec-2007
Lahore, Nov 28 (ANI): Two acclaimed Indian filmmakers -- Govind Nihalani and Anwar Iqbal - have expressed high hopes for the future of the film industry in Pakistan. Participating in a seminar on interactive film making during the World Performing Arts Film Festival, Nihalani believed that the younger generation of Pakistanis represented a dynamic force of transformation due to their thirst for international exposure, either through personal travel or the media. The key, though, he said, was to ensure that filmmaking became more economical. And, once potential filmmakers gained access to technical and financial resources, audiences would be exposed to a kaleidoscopic range of individual narratives, he added. Nilhani also stressed the importance of scriptwriting as an integral part of the filmmaking process because it is impossible to make good films from bad scripts. The festival, which began on November 22, ends on December 3, It includes performances in dance, theatre, puppetry, music and films, the Daily Times reported. The festival includes five categories including music, theatre, puppetry, dance and film. Audiences are reportedly looking forward to the music and dance performances. Dances will be conducted in classical and modern style, while music will include western, folk, rock, fusion, pop, mystic, ghazal and classical styles. (ANI) - AY Labels: News Reunion of Shailendra Sigh and Mithun Chakraborty
28-Nov-2007
Director Pankaj Shukla managed to make one more casting coup for the most talked about film in Bhojpuri Cinema "Bhole Shankar". Legendry Singer Shailendra Singh who was voice of Cult Star Mithun Chakraborty in the super-duper hit films like "Suraksha", "Tarana" and many others makes a come back in the film "Bhole Shankar" as voice of Mithun Chakraborty once again. Shailendra Singh, who is known for his voice with difference recorded
a Bhojpuri song in Sativika Studio in Mumbai which will be picturised
on Mithun Chakraborty in Bhojpuri Film "Bhole Shankar". Commenting on
this casting coup Mithun said, "It is indeed a pleasure to have a
singer like Shailendra Singh in our team. When director Pankaj Shukla
narrated the song situation to me, the very first name that came into
my mind was Shailendra Singh. And, I was so happy to learn that even
Pankaj has thought to get this song sung by Shailendra." Present at the time of recording of the song was hero of the film and
Super star of Bhojpuri Cinema, Manoj Tiwari 'Mridul'. Manoj welcomed
Mr. Shailendra Singh to Bhojpuri Cinema and said, "Bhojpuri Cinema has
finally arrived in big way and after likes of Mr. Amitabh Bachchan,
Hema Malini and Ajay Devgan supporting the revival of Bhojpuri Cinema,
more and more Stars of Hindi Cinema are open to it. Mr. Shailendra
Singh has been the idol of many singers and he has a huge fan
following around the world. To have Shailendra Singh in the team of
"Bhole Shankar" is nothing less than an honor." Director Pankaj Shukla is making casting coups for Bhojpuri Cinema
again and again. Last one heard about his debut film as director was
for the news that he has managed to rope in two times National Award
Winner for Best Actor and a cult star of Hindi Cinema, Mithun
Chakraborty in his film "Bhole Shankar". Then he roped in Sa Re Ga Ma
Pa Finalists Raja Hasan and Mauli to sing for this film. Raja Hasan
lapped the song which was originally composed keeping Rahet Fateh Ali
Khan in mind whereas Mauli sings a peppy solo number in the film. Produced by Gulshan Bhatia, "Bhole Shankar" boasts of a huge cast and
is seen as the biggest Bhojpuri film till date. Mithun Chakraborty
plays a very special role in the film while Manoj Tiwari Mridul plays
the main male lead. The film has three heroines cast opposite Manoj,
namely Mona Lisa, Lovy Rohatgi and Niraali, while likes of Rajesh
Vivek, Gopal Singh and Shabnam Kapoor are doing the character roles.
Crime Reporter fame Raghvendra Mudgal makes debut on big screen with
this film. "Bhole Shankar" has lyrics by Bipin Bahar and Music by
Dhananjay Mishra. Reunion of Shailendra Sigh and Mithun Chakraborty Labels: News Indian theatre artistes stage play on Bhagat Singh in Pakistan
27-Nov-2007
Lahore, Nov 27 (ANI): Commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, Indian theatre group Punarjyot staged a play on his life at Camp 4 in Pakistan on Monday. The artistes tried to convey the message thorough this play that despite being from different religions, the freedom fighters of India worked together for freedom against the British rule. Bikram Jeet Ranjha from Amritsar played Bhagat Singh in the play, which was directed by Kewal Singh, the Daily Times reported, adding that the audience appreciated and enjoyed songs such as Rang de Basanti Chola among others. As a child, Bhagat Singh was deeply affected by the 1919 Jalianwala Bagh Massacre, in which British forces mercilessly killed hundreds of men, women and children on orders of General Dyer on April 13, 1919. Born on September 28, 1907, Bhagat Singh is considered to be one of the most famous revolutionaries of the Indian independence movement. He is also known as Shaheed Bhagat Singh He was born to a family that had earlier been involved in revolutionary activities against the British Raj. At the age of 13, Bhagat Singh actively participated in the Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920. He was one of the leaders and founders of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). Bhagat Singh was hanged at the age of 24 years on March 23, 1931 for shooting a British police officer in response to the killing of veteran social activist Lala Lajpat Rai. (ANI) --MP Labels: News No takers for Pakistani agenda to mislead Punjabi youth
26-Nov-2007
Chandigarh, Nov 25 (ANI): Pakistan Radio's repetitive attempts to mislead the youth living in Punjab, especially those who are living along the Indo-Pak border of the state, has evoked unhappiness among them.
The credentials of Pakistan Radio are now being questioned as it persistently tries to spread strident anti-India disinformmation through its "punjabi Durbar" programme.
The Punjabi Darbar bulletin has once again alleged that New Delhi is responsible for a decade of terrorism in Punjab.
Rejecting this notion, people of the state instead blame Pakistan for spreading terror in India and giving safe sanctuary to those who have left no stone unturned to terrorise Indian society.
"Pakistan has created terror in India. And now they are trapped in their own net. It is Pakistan that pushed terror here," Gurmit Singh Bablu, the Chairman, Shahi-e-Azam Bhagat Singh Youth Front, said.
He also feels that Pakistan always tries to infuse communal strife in Punjab to derail the state from the path of development and prosperity.
"It is the people of Punjab who have foiled their (Pakistani) plan of ruining the cordial atmosphere here. The Sikhs, Hindus, Muslims and people from every other religion are having good relations," Bablu said.
Leaders of ruling Akali Dal in Punjab are of the opinion that the terror that the state witnessed a few decades ago was Pakistan's sponsored.
Mandeep Singh Manna, an Akali Dal youth leader, says: "It is an open fact that terror in Punjab was the brainchild of Pakistan. In actual, Pakistan is the father of terrorism and the world knows this."
The broadcasts aired from Lahore are directed at Sikhs living in the border areas.
It would be pertinent to mention here that the Punjab Government, be it the Akali Dal or the Congress Governments, has time and again launched various schemes, programmes to generate employment, spread awareness, and make its youth self dependent.
Not only government instrumentalities, but also several non-governmental organisations have always been active in these programmes.
On November 24, the students of Government College, Karmsar, Rara Sahib, were educated about various career guidance schemes, vocational training programmes, self-help and placement services by 'Sukrit', an organisation which focuses on youth activities.
On the same day, Punjab Technical Education and Social Security Minister Chaudhary Swarna Ram announced that two driving training centres-one each in Bathinda and Jalandhar districts-will be opened to train nearly 50,000 youth in driving skills to enable them secure good jobs in foreign countries.
The Minister further said that in order to promote vocational education in the state, five more centres with an intake capacity of 600 students, would be opened shortly.
Apart from this a polytechnic college between Rahon and Nawanshahr will be opened to provide engineering diploma courses to nearly 1200 youth.
In addition to all schemes and programmes, the Punjab Government's Centre for Training and Employment of Punjab Youth (C-PYTE) trains unemployed youth to help them in their absorption in Army, Para Military Forces, Semi-Government and Industrial houses besides imbibing amongst them self-discipline, spirit of national integration and dignity of labour.
It also provide them coaching for joining technical training in various ITI's of the State thus providing them the where-withal for taking up self employment ventures
The Scheme has achieved commendable results in channelising their energies and thinking towards creative work apart from involving them in skill creation, discipline, and creation of work culture and dignity of labour among the youth thus bringing them in the national mainstream.
Till March 31, 2006, 1,05,582 youth have undergone training in various camps out of which 65946 youth have been provided with wage employment
It seems that despite of these conspicuous facts, Pakistan keeps on propagating such malicious facts just to hide the turmoil in its own country.
This is not the first time that this programme has received such a harsh response from the Punjabi youth and society. In the past too it had tried to infuse some sort of separatist ideas, but received hard-hitting replies.
Punjab has earned the epithet "Granary India" for its enterprising spirit, and the untiring toil of its people and has, now, become a land of boundless opportunities, offering distinct advantages for investment and industry, and it seems that Pakistan cannot digest this fact and cannot see a prosperous and developed Punjab.
People of Punjab, who are dynamic, have worked hard to enrich the soil, develop the water resources, and adapt agricultural technology to usher the "Green Revolution" in the country.
It is hard to believe Pakistan Radio when it says that the youth in India, and especially in Punjab, is faced with a grim future. (ANI) --MP Labels: News Film Bazaar to open at IFFI today
24-Nov-2007
Panaji, Nov 24 (ANI): The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC)'s Film Bazaar 2007 will open at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa today. The three-day Film Bazaar is aimed at providing an interactive platform between prospective buyers and sellers of film rights from India and abroad. The international participants are Global Film Initiative, Back Up Films, Onoma International, Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation, Shanghai Film Group, China Film Co-production, Arclight Films Malaysian Broadcasting Corporation, Astra and Miriam Arab of Cannes Market. Sales agents and financiers including Fortissimo Films and Paris based Memento Films, and Germany's Pandora. As part of the Film Bazaar, 15 pre-selected projects drawn from all over India will be presented to the participants. These projects are at different stages of development. The NFDC is also organising a script development workshop, screenwriters' bloc, which is scheduled to begin on Sunday as a run up to the IFFI. The workshop pairs six mentors with the writers of eight pre-selected screenplays. Danis Tanovic, Bernd Lichtenberg and Olivia Hetreed are among the high-profile writers who will mentor eight students. Tanovic wrote as well as directed 'No Man's Land', while Lichtenberg's credits as writer include 'Goodbye Lenin!' and Hetreed scripted 'Girl With A Pearl Earring'. The three European writers will join India's Shaji Karun (Nishad), Anjum Rajabali (Legend of Bhagat Singh) and Ashwini Malik (Clever And Lonely) as mentors at the six-day workshop. In addition, writer-director Mani Ratnam (Guru) will participate as a guest mentor and hold a master class. Participating projects include English-language scripts such as Pubali Chaudhuri's Happy Ever After, along with scripts in Hindi and other Indian languages. (ANI) - AY Labels: News Uphaar fire tragedy: 2 years imprisonment for Ansal brothers
23-Nov-2007
New Delhi, Nov 23 (ANI): A Delhi Sessions Court today awarded the owners of Uphaar Cinema hall, Gopal and Sushil Ansal, with two years of imprisonment in connection with the 1997 cinema hall fire tragedy that left 59 people dead and over hundred people injured. Each of the convicted brothers were fined rupees 5,000 and given bail on an additional rupees 25,000 bond. Seven other convicts in the case have been given seven years of imprisonment, and remaining three of the twelve convicts have been given two years of imprisonment. The Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) counsel Y K Saxena and the counsel arguing on behalf of the victims' families, Vikas Pahwa, had sought maximum punishment for all the 12 accused in the case. The Association of Victims of Uphaar Tragedy (AVUT) has also filed a written submission on point of sentencing seeking maximum punishment for the guilty. The court on Monday declared Ansal brothers guilty of criminal negligence in the case. Both have been convicted under Section 304A of Indian Penal Code for causing death of a person/persons by rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide. However, the defence sought for mercy and probation. Gopal Ansal's counsel sought leniency for his client, saying his client had no direct role in the incident. The CBI, on the other hand had alleged that the accused were directly and criminally negligent in the management of the theatre. Senior advocate Harish Salve had contended that owners of the cinema hall were liable for penal action. The court also convicted 10 other accused in the case. They are R. K. Sharma, Ajit Chaudhary, N. S. Chopra, Manmohan Uniyal, Shyam Sunder Sharma, N. D. Tiwari, Hanswaroop Panwar, B. M. Satija, A. K. Gera and Beer Singh. Shyam Sunder and Tiwari (both Municipal Corporation of Delhi officials), and Delhi Fire Service officer Panwar can face a punishment of a maximum of two years. Four accused - - R. M. Puri, K. L. Malhotra (both senior employees of hall), S. N. Dandona (Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department) and Delhi Fire Services officer Surender Dutt - - have died during the trial. The CBI had filed a chargesheet on November 15, 1997, and the court admitted it on January 19, 1998. During the 10-year-old trial, the CBI had examined 115 witnesses. Among them, eight witnesses, termed as relatives of Ansals, have already turned hostile. The tragedy took place on June 13, 1997 during the screening of the Hindi film, "Border." The theatre was engulfed when an overheated generator burst in the basement of the building. Men, women and children all scampered to rush out of the four cinema hall exits. (ANI) --MP Labels: News Delhi court to pronounce quantum of sentence in Uphaar case
22-Nov-2007
New Delhi, Nov 22 (ANI): A Delhi Sessions Court will today pronounce the quantum of sentence to 12 persons, who were convicted in connection with the 1997 Uphaar Cinema Hall blaze case. The court on Wednesday deferred the sentencing in the case till today as the arguments remained inconclusive. Additional Sessions Judge Mamta Sehgal had said that she will pronounce the quantum of sentence against all the 12 convicts, after hearing the remaining arguments of the defence and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The court on Monday declared Gopal and Sushil Ansal, the owners of the cinema hall, guilty of criminal negligence in the case. Both have been convicted under Section 304A of Indian Penal Code for causing death of a person/persons by rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide. They both can be sentenced to a maximum imprisonment of two years along with a fine. The verdict came 10 years after the tragedy in which 59 people lost their lives during the screening of the Hindi film, "Border". The court also convicted 10 other accused in the case. They are R. K. Sharma, Ajit Chaudhary, N. S. Chopra, Manmohan Uniyal, Shyam Sunder Sharma, N. D. Tiwari, Hanswaroop Panwar, B. M. Satija, A. K. Gera and Beer Singh. Four accused - - R. M. Puri, K. L. Malhotra (both senior employees of hall), S. N. Dandona (Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department) and Delhi Fire Services officer Surender Dutt - - have died during the trial. The CBI had filed a chargesheet on November 15, 1997, and the court admitted it on January 19, 1998. The Association of the Victims of Uphaar Tragedy (AVUT) had lodged an FIR alleging death due to negligence against Gopal and Sushil Ansal. The CBI had alleged that the accused were directly and criminally negligent in the management of the theatre. Senior advocate Harish Salve had contended that owners of the cinema hall were liable for penal action. During the 10-year-old trial, the CBI had examined 115 witnesses. Among them, eight witnesses, termed as relatives of Ansals, have already turned hostile. Fifty-nine people were choked to death, while 109 survived with injuries after the Uphaar Cinema caught fire leading to a stampede on June 13, 1997. The theatre was engulfed when an overheated generator burst in the basement of the building. Men, women and children all scampered to rush out of the four cinema hall exits. (ANI) - AY Labels: News Uphaar Cinema case verdict today
21-Nov-2007
New Delhi, Nov 20 (ANI): A Delhi court will today pronounce its verdict in connection with the 1997 Uphaar Cinema fire tragedy case, in which 59 people lost their lives during the screening of the Hindi film, "Border". Besides prime accused Gopal and Sushil Ansal, the owners of the cinema hall, there are 12 others accused in the case. Ansals, who were not allowed to file their written arguments earlier in the case, had got a reprieve from Supreme Court which recently directed the trial court to take their submissions on record. Four accused - - R. M. Puri, K. L. Malhotra (both senior employees of hall), S. N. Dandona (Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department) and Delhi Fire Services officer Surender Dutt - - have died during the trial. Among the other accused are R. K. Sharma, Ajit Chaudhary, N. S. Chopra, Manmohan Uniyal, Shyam Sunder Sharma, N. D. Tiwari, Hanswaroop Panwar, B. M. Satija, A. K. Gera and Beer Singh. The court had rejected the plea of Gera and Satija, both former Delhi Vidyut Board (DVB) employees, to file written arguments in reply to the submissions brought on record by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). All the accused have been charged under Section 14 of the Cinematography Act. The CBI had filed a chargesheet on November 15, 1997, and the court admitted it on January 19, 1998. The Association of the Victims of Uphaar Tragedy (AVUT) had lodged an FIR alleging death due to negligence against Gopal and Sushil Ansal. The CBI had alleged that the accused were directly and criminally negligent in the management of the theatre. Senior advocate Harish Salve had contended that owners of the cinema hall were liable for penal action. During the 10-year-old trial, the CBI had examined 115 witnesses. Among them, eight witnesses, termed as relatives of Ansals, have already turned hostile. Fifty-nine people were choked to death, while 109 survived with injuries after the Uphaar Cinema caught fire leading to a stampede on June 13, 1997. The theatre was engulfed when an overheated generator burst in the basement of the building. Men, women and children all scampered to rush out of the four cinema hall exits. (ANI) - AY Labels: News Hollywood actors unanimously praise Bollywood
19-Nov-2007
Las Vegas, Nov 19 (ANI): Indians are not the only people crazy about their glittery song and dance movies. Hollywood action heroes too are spellbound by the charm of Indian film industry. While talking to ANI, Hollywood action icons such as Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis and Tom Arnold praised Bollywood on the sidelines of there launch of the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, on Saturday. Two-time Academy Award nominated actor Sylvester Stallone, who has rocked the screen with the films like Rocky, First Blood and Cop Land, said he is not talented enough to act in Bollywood films, which are full of singing and dancing. "I admire the work. I admire the way it has supported the industry. It's incredible. I have never been in India. It would be a great adventure and I look forward to it," added Stallone. Another Hollywood actor Bruce Willis, who has acted in the action packed Die Hard series, said Bollywood actors have much more hold on their fans in comparison to Hollywood actors. " Bollywood is doing great. They call it Bollywood for a reason; it is a good luck charm," Willis added. American actor Tom Arnold said, "They make movies more than us maybe. I love to work there. It's a beautiful country. I saw the Darjeeling Express and it's beautiful." Other Hollywood actors like Pamela Anderson, who were present at the launch of the Planet Hollywood, also praised Bollywood. Inspired by the world of Hollywood, the restaurant chain was founded by British entrepreneur Robert Earl and launched in New York City in October 1991 with financial backing from Hollywood actors Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Demi Moore. The chain will soon be coming to India with plans of setting up five restaurants in the country. Several Hollywood stars expressed their desire to join the opening of the Planet Hollywood in Mumbai. (ANI) --MP Labels: News Hollywood eyeing Bollywood market big time
10-Nov-2007
Washington, Nov 10 (ANI): The release of "Saawariya," the first Bollywood film to be produced by a major U.S studio, Sony, will mark a turning point in Hollywood's relationship with the Indian film industry. The film's release will also mark the finale of a turbulent 18 months in which Hollywood's major producers have been battling to invest in Indian films subsequent to corporate investments in other parts of the entertainment industry. Executives from Disney chairman Dick Cook to Sony Pictures Entertainment chairman Michael Lynton have travelled to Mumbai in order to sign deals with the second-biggest movie industry in the world. After months of talks, some of the projects are being fully financed by the Hollywood studios, while in other cases they are joint investments, with the studios frequently putting in 50 percent of the finance. Warner Bros. have signed a deal to fund three films made by veteran producer Ramesh Sippy, with the first, "Made in China," due to start shooting in January. Paramount Pictures parent Viacom has formed Viacom-18, a joint venture with local television broadcaster TV18, and might make features through its subsidiary. Meanwhile Sony has signed a deal with Eros International, an India-based production company, to make as many as six pictures during the next year. "India is a huge subcontinent and it has a huge moviegoing population. Even if you forget the little pictures, it still supports 400 movies a year," the Hollywood Reporter quoted Gareth Wigan, vice chairman of Sony's Columbia TriStar division, as saying. Richard Fox, executive vp international at Warners, says that his studio aims to make three to seven pictures annually in India. "If you are in the business of local-language production -- which we are -- you can't exclude Hindi-speaking movies, or movies in any of the top two or three languages in India," he said. Experts say that changes in the Indian economy and film business have made this trend more feasible than ever before, as the cronyism that once marked the Indian industry is passé. "They all think that India is booming, which it absolutely is. Real estate, information technology, software, the telecom industry -- it is just growing in a way I have never seen before," said Ashok Amritraj, the best-known Indian producer based in Los Angeles. For Disney president Mark Zoradi, the key to tap into the huge Indian movie market, is to invest in local product by teaming with established Indian producers. "Our strategy is to make movies in India, for India. We are not trying to make global exports; we are looking to do Indian movies that can play locally in India and to Indian audiences in the U.S. and the U.K. and a few other markets. If we end up with a movie that can travel, that's great. But our primary objective is to make movies that work for India," Zoradi said. However, some Indian filmmakers are sceptical of Hollywood's long-term commitment. "The Hollywood studios are here purely for commercial and not artistic reasons. They are here to cater to the Indian market with formulaic films. I don't think they would be interested in offbeat and edgy fare," said Vishal Bharadwaj, one of India's most acclaimed filmmakers. More insiders fear that Hollywood's arrival will lead to price inflation, a trend that is already troubling many Indian filmmakers. "A year ago, the most expensive films were probably around 10 million dollars; today it is commonplace for a movie to be between 10 million dollars-15 million dollars. Actors have gotten a 100 percent raise in the last year. The problem is that there are only probably 10 actors and five or six directors who are names of consequence. They are very sought after, and their prices have risen dramatically," Amritraj said. (ANI) -- -AA Labels: News Dhamaal now on VCD & DVD
04-Nov-2007
AA: Shemaroo Entertainment releases the super duper block buster comedy hit 'Dhamaal'. This out right crackling comedy film has won fantastic reviews from all publications. From the makers of 'Masti', this film has brought the hit 'jodi' of 'Munnabhai' fame - Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi - together once again. Dhamaal has a cast that any comedy flick would love to have – Sanjay
Dutt, Javed Jaffrey, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, Ashish Choudhary
– all of whom who have given superb performances. The DVD has bonus features which includes - making of the film and
cast and crew interviews. As the name suggests, the movie is 'fultoo
Dhamaal'. The story revolves around four adorable friends who live and
work together, where their idea of work is doing small time con jobs.
Each of these four has a peculiar trait in them, which make them
hilarious characters in the film. While the thought of earning an honest living never crossed their
minds, they get their big break and their life is made when trying to
save a dying man one day. Then one misadventure follows after another,
where the five are thrown into entertaining situations that will make
the audiences burst into an uproarious laughter. Dhamaal, which has caught on very successfully at the box – office, is
sure to catch on home video in a big way. Considering that the film
has a mass appeal Shemaroo wants every house hold to enjoy the film
and hence has priced it at a very attractive and affordable cost of
Rs. 49/- for VCD and Rs. 199/- for DVD. Shemaroo has also made a direct foray into film-making with its Films
Division . The critically acclaimed award-winning 'Omkara' –
co-produced by Shemaroo Entertainment - was a massive success and we have many more releases in the
pipeline. Shemaroos first film in the regional category 'Majha Navra
Tujhi Baiko' - was a highest grosser movie in the Marathi Cinema for
the year 2006. Apart from this, the Bengali Film 'Anuranan' – being
hailed as the new wave of Bengali Cinema – is yet another Shemaroo
banner. Shemaroo has taken classic Bollywood Films across the seas and around
the globe to Hindi Film fans all over the world. The demand for
Shemaroo products has been phenomenal not only in the US, U.K.,
Singapore, Fiji, UAE and Australian markets but newly developed
markets like East European & North African markets as well. Labels: News SRK turns 42
03-Nov-2007
MP: Bollywood's King Khan turned 42 on Friday. Khan who made his debut with TV seriels has a career span of almost 20 years. He has a big fanfare across the globe. He has won various awards for his outstanding performance in films and was awarded the Padma Shri in 2004. Some of his hits are Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995), Dil To Pagal Hai (1997), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and most recently Chak De India. His upcoming film is Farah Khan's 'Om Shanti Om' which is already in the buzz for sometime now. At his 42nd birthday, here is wishing the superstar another year of success. Labels: News, Sha-Rukh-Khan Saawariya on Nov 9th
MP: Expectations are running high on the much awaited Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming film Saawariya. The film introduces Ranbir Kapoor (son of Rishi Kapoor) with his debut in Bollywood. Sony Pictures is bringing it to theaters on November 9th amid the Diwali season. The pairing of the lead stars in the film also adds flavor. Ranbir will be teaming up with none other than Anil Kapoor's daughter Sonam Kapoor who is also another debutant in the industry. The film tells a young couple's love story. Others in the cast are Salman Khan, Rani Mukerji, Zohra Sehgal etc. Labels: News, Saawariya Chak De India now a successful Management Mantra
Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) Greater Noida organized an event with a theme –"Chak De i.e. Team Building & Leadership". Students of BIMTECH are convinced that it is a very successful management case study, which has created ripples in the corporate world, as the theme is something which people can relate to. The multi- cultural diversity and its attendant problems, the work place politics and finally the triumph of ethics and commitment of the team over all odds, make it look like a fairy tale come true. Learning made effective Dr. H Chaturvedi, Director, BIMTECH speaking at the event said, "To make learning more effective, we should always evolve innovative ways in teaching. Chak De is a very stimulating film, and BIMTECH has used it efficiently to convey the principles of management studies. BIMTECH has taken special permission from the producer - Yash Raj Films to use the clippings of the film at the event." Dr. Chaturvedi further added, "To delve into the psychology of a man of ordinary prudence like the coach, Kabir Khan, in Chak De India, who rises to the pedestal of a leader and leads a team of unruly, wrangling girls to become world champions. BIMTECH takes the initiative of bringing together luminaries from different backgrounds to share their views and experiences. This is basically an effort to dwell on issues related to the role of a leader in building a team: inculcating team spirit and motivating all members to commit them towards achieving excellence." Dr. Kiran Bedi, PS & DG BPRD - "Chak De! India is a very motivational movie…. The film, is based on a real-life story and that always makes a deeper impact on the students and on the general public too. They can relate to it and apply it in their daily life. Chak De has helped understand concepts like team building and leadership apart from strategic motivation and determination. All this helps in coming out as a winner from the worst situations." Rajiv Khurana, Management Consultant, a TV and Radio anchor, an inquisitive award winning photographer and a serious poet, was one of the panelists. He heads the Personnel Lab, Management Consultants, New Delhi. He spoke on the importance of leadership in management and how an excellent leader can turn things around Inspiring concept Zafar Iqbal -"Chak de is a really inspirational movie…just look at our hockey, football n cricket teams…they have started winning in every field after the release of Chak De…" Ashok Kumar -"The leader etches the path and the team, through its hard work, converts it into exemplar of performance. Teams can have different goals: however one goal which is invariably a part of every team is the pursuit of success" P Dwarkanath, Former Director- HR, Glaxo SmithKline Consumer Healthcare, R J Masilamani a veteran professional and Sumit Chaudhuri, CMD, Third Millennium Business Resource Associates, too were seen sharing their experiences on how Shah Rukh Khan in the Chak De film had exemplified each move formulated by the character, Kabir, in the game of hockey for specific business strategies. Jaideep Sahni, the scriptwriter of the movie' Chak De' had also sent his congratulatory message to the BIMTECH students on taking such an initiative. The audio clip was played as a part of the function. The coach of the woman's' hockey team, Shri. M K Kaushik, whose book' Golden Boot' had inspired Jaideep Sahni to write the script, too had sent across a video clip showing his views on the importance of leadership and teamwork in sports and real life. To celebrate and salute the spirit of leadership and teamwork and to bring to the fore its relevance to business and management, the students of BIMTECH took initiative to add new dimensions to establish view points which brought new learnings to managers, students, teams and leaders. Students of BIMTECH were quite excited to interact and discuss with the Icons of Industry and the sports world and were inspired by the anecdotes shared by the speakers, which were very effective. Labels: News Deepika Padukone to be the Face of Kingfisher Airlines
01-Nov-2007
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Wednesday, October 31, 2007 -- (Business Wire India) -- Kingfisher Airlines, India's favourite airline today announced that it has signed on talented Bollywood debutante Deepika Padukone. Billed as the most promising newcomer ever in tinsel town, Deepika Padukone will now become the face of Kingfisher Airlines. Thanks to her huge fan following and the connect that Deepika enjoys with the youth, she will quite naturally mirror the hopes, aspirations and lifestyle needs of the new and young generation of Indians who are now literally taking to the skies. Not merely a passive brand ambassador, the move to sign on Deepika is conceived as an initiative that aims to serve guests better and to pro-actively offer them the best experience in the world, Kingfisher Airlines has carved out a very specific persona for the Kingfisher Airlines Brand Ambassador. The Kingfisher Airlines Brand Ambassador is a young, dedicated and extremely committed individual who aspires to be the best and typically personifies excellence in the chosen field in terms of high standards of work and who has demonstrated unmatched potential to emerge a leader in the chosen field. Consequently, the individual would enjoy a huge following and would appeal to a range of wide audiences and niche audiences. Sharing the motivation behind the introduction of this initiative and giving insights into how Deepika is a perfect fit for the brand, Dr. Vijay Mallya, Chairman and CEO, Kingfisher Airlines Limited, said "Kingfisher Airlines in the short span of 29 months, has firmly established itself as a market leader while setting new service benchmarks. Deepika Padukone, the Kingfisher Airlines Brand Ambassador, personifies the brand values of Kingfisher Airlines and what it stands for." Ever since its launch in May 2005, Kingfisher Airlines has blazed a trail of innovations and introduced a range of market-firsts that have completely redefined the whole experience of flying. The appointment of Deepika Padukone as the Kingfisher Airlines Brand Ambassador is yet another step in the direction of Kingfisher Airlines strengthening and deepening the unique understanding and insights that it has about the needs and aspirations of consumers in India. By elevating its customers to a level of being 'guests' and not just passengers, Kingfisher Airlines has endeared itself to consumers. About Kingfisher Airlines Kingfisher Airlines is India's favorite airline and the only one to offer a premium first class service on domestic routes. Besides being the first and the only airline to offer in-flight entertainment on every seat in the domestic skies, Kingfisher Airlines is the only one to offer LIVE TV with 16 channels of live & exciting content. Kingfisher Airlines has received 27 awards for innovation, customer responsiveness and was voted the "Best New Airline of the Year" within months of its launch. Kingfisher Airlines is part of The UB Group which is one of India's largest conglomerates with diverse interests and a global presence. The UB Group is also the largest Indian manufacturer of beverage alcohol (beer & spirits) and the second largest drinks Group in the world. Kingfisher Airlines flies to 34 cities and offers over 208 flights daily with a fleet of 34 brand new aircraft. With its significant investment in Air Deccan, the Kingfisher-Air Deccan Group is India's largest domestic airline connecting 69 cities and offering over 558 flights daily with a fleet of 78 aircraft. Labels: Deepika-Padukone, News Hollywood to join hands with Bollywood against piracy
31-Oct-2007
MP: New Delhi, Oct 29 (ANI): The biggest competitor faced by both Hollywood and Bollywood in India is piracy, said Dan Glickman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) at a CII meeting here on Monday. "The film industry needs strong laws to support copyright, strong enforcement of those laws, stiff sentences for people who violate those laws and most important, an understanding by ordinary citizens, the people who love movies, that buying pirated movies hurts the industry and makes it difficult for movie makers to make new films," Glickman said, adding that in India, the MPA has been actively fighting piracy for last ten years. Appreciating the effort by Indian counterpart, he said that Hyderabad Film Chambers worked with the Andhra Pradesh Government to create India's first dedicated court to oversee film piracy cases. Modulated enforcement, technology, delivery of exciting new services and public education are the essential elements of a graduated approach to fight intellectual property theft, he said. "We have created a 'best practices' roadmap for university computer network usage and in many countries MPA and MPA member company executives speak to university students about copyright and its importance", he said. MPA has created a booklet warning about the risks of peer-to-peer file sharing, which has been distributed to young people, he added. Glickman further said that the evolution of on-demand world and the new and enhanced power of consumer choice were impacting the habits and preferences of the audience, adding that moviemakers must turn out quality movies with compelling and entertaining stories that audiences want to see. "We in the industry must anticipate and respond to change, recognizing that technology is turning out to offer far more opportunity than adversity", he added. Pointing out that the value of partnership between Hollywood and Bollywood was meaningful, Glickman said that American film producers were forging relationships that they hope would let them tell stories to Indian audiences. (ANI) Labels: News Earlier Stories:
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