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May 2004
Lapses in UDF's policy implementation: Antony
Monday, May 31, 2004
PTI THRISSUR: Conceding that there had been "lapses" in the implementation of UDF policies during the last three years, Kerala Chief Minister A K Antony on Saturday said the failings would be rectified. The lapses would be rectified by discussing the matters in the UDF and cabinet, Anthony told reporters here. Antony attributed the defeat of Congress in the Lok Sabha polls to the "dissatisfaction" of the people in the implementation of the policy. Antony said UDF government decided to give functional freedom to policemen with a view to avoid "political interference" and to ensure justice to all sections especially the weaker and poor in the society. Majority of policemen utilized the functional freedom impartially and sincerely. But, a section of policemen, however misused the functional freedom for their personal interest which had created wrong impression among common man about the government, Antony said. He said not only in police department, officials in some other departments like education also misused the freedom given to them. Justice Thomas Committee report on fee structure in self financing professional colleges would be approved only after detailed discussions with all concerned, he said. Earlier, Antony inaugurated the Kerala Police Academy 's building at nearby Ramavarampuram. Antony also took salute at the passing out parade of 210 women police constables. Speaking on the occasion, he said the strength of women police would be enhanced to 10 per cent of total police force.
CPI-M, CPI flay court order on hartal
Monday, May 31, 2004
PTI THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Opposition CPI-M and CPI in the state on Saturday came out against the Kerala High Court order on hartals that government could seek the help of Army or Paramilitary to deal with hartals saying that court verdict amounted to negating the fundamental rights guaranteed to citizens under constitution. CPI-M State Secretary Pinarayi Vijayan said that court order to deal firmly with strikes was against the right to organise and protest. Vijayan wanted the government to go for an appeal against the High Court order. CPI State Secretary Veliyam Bhargavan said court order in effect negated the human rights guaranteed under the Constitution. He asked the government to react to the High Court order and take steps to correct the court verdict. CITU also protested against the court verdict saying that it infringed the rights of workers to organise.
Govt to close office of Ambassador-at-large of NRIs/PIOs
Monday, May 31, 2004
New Delhi, May 30 In the first roll back of the previous BJP-led regime's decisions on the foreign policy front, the Manmohan Singh government today announced that the office of Ambassador-at-large incharge of Non-Resident Indians and People of Indian Origin would be closed from tomorrow. An External Affairs Ministry spokesman said Bishm Agnihotri, who was Ambassador-at-large of NRIs and PIOs, would be handing over the charge tommorrow. The office is being closed down, he added. The post was created by the Vajpayee government some years ago and Agnihotri, considered close to RSS, was appointed to it, drawing the opposition parties' ire. Agnihotri has already announced his resignation from the post and the closure of his office was on the cards ever since the ouster of BJP-led government.
Government committed to reforms, Manmohan Singh tells FICCI
Monday, May 31, 2004
New Delhi, May 30 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has assured leading industry chamber FICCI that the Congress-led government was committed to accelerating economic reforms and reorienting them to spread the benefits to weaker sections. Singh, an economist-turned-politican, also responded positively to FICCI president Y K Modi's suggestion on creation of a dedicated fund from proceeds of disinvestment to step up investments in agriculture and rural sector, a FICCI press release said. Presenting FICCI's action plan to Prime Minister at his residence on Saturday, Modi said higher economic growth in agriculture and manufacturing was essential to accelerate economic growth and employment generation. Pointing to lack of flexibility in labour laws, Modi suggested that it should be made a state subject. "The agriculture sector has been bypassed by reforms and there is an urgent need to deregulate the farm sector to free the farmers from a plethora of controls that affect income of farmers and price realisation," Modi said. Modi emphasied on one Indian market for the farmers by deregulating agriculture marketing system and abolishing APMC Act and free movement of farm products between states. He suggested greater investment in agriculture and rejuvenation of the rural sector, as it is vital to rapid economic growth and employment generation. The FICCI action plan also vouched for dedicated missions to implement developmental schemes in critical sectors like primary education, drinking water and sanitation for the benefit of both urban and rural populace.
Saudi hostage drama ends, eight Indians among 22 killed
Monday, May 31, 2004
Dubai, May 30 Commandos today ended a 25-hour hostage drama storming a luxury housing complex in the Saudi Arabian oil city of Al Khobar, freeing over 50 people held captive by the militants who carried out twin attacks killing 22 persons including eight Indians. While Lawrence Gregory Monice from Mangalore, Karnataka, one of the eight Indians, was killed in the cross-fire between Saudi security forces and the militants, the other Indian nationals were gunned down by the Al Qaeda operatives, sources in Saudi Arabia said. The other Indians, mostly employees of Saudi maintainance company Saad Corporation and located in the Oasis Housing Complex, were identified as 45-year-old P K Pradeep Kumar (Kerala), J N Jose (Kerala), Charles Clethens Carlos, John Fernando (Goa), Suresh Kumar and J Ram (both from Rajasthan) and Vikram (Bihar), the sources told over phone. A statement issued by Saudi Interior Ministry said while three of the four Al Qaeda terrorists, who carried out the attacks, managed to escape, one of them was arrested in an injured condition.
Ghauri test escalating the arms race: Patil
Monday, May 31, 2004
Bangalore, May 30 Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil today said the testing of the nuclear-capable "Ghauri" missile by Pakistan was "escalating the arms race." "It (Ghauri test) is escalating the arms race," Patil told reporters here in reply to a question. "If they (Pakistan) are doing it (missile test), well India will have to take note of it," Patil said. He said the government had taken note of the missile test and added "we can't be concerned on every issue". "Our policy is to strengthen our country....we have to take note of it and have to do what we should do," Patil said. The Home Minister was on a two-day private visit here and attended the wedding of senior congress leader Mallikarjuna Kharge's son and paid a visit to Sathya Sai Baba at his whitefield ashram here.
India losing out to Australia in wheat market
Monday, May 31, 2004
New Delhi, May 30 India is losing out to Australia and other exporting countries in the world wheat market with government refusing to provide WTO-compatible assistance to exporters, thus rendering the country's produce uncompetitive. The government has ruled out any grain exports or subsidies to traders in the current season before assessing the performance of the monsoon. India is unlikely to compete in tenders for over two lakh tonnes to be floated in the next few weeks in Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and East Africa. "In last 10 days we have been outbid in two tenders of 50,000 tonnes each floated in west Asia for import of wheat. Government must give concessions for export of at least 5-10 lakh tonnes to ensure our presence in the market," Chairman, All India Grain Exporters Association, D P Singh, told. Emirates Flour Mills, Abu Dabhi and National Flour Mills Dubai had sought to buy 50,000 tonnes each. Australian wheat at around 191 dollars a tonne, cost, insurance and freight (CIF) outpriced the Indian quotations. A number of Indian exporters seeking to sell to the two mills quoted over 200 dollars a tonne, thus losing out in the export market. Singh, whose company Sara International was one of the bidders, said Indian wheat was outpriced by at least 15 dollars a tonne vis-a-vis Australia's in international trade. He said it cost the exporters Rs 7,600 a tonne for wheat delivered at Kandla port. This works out to be around 169 dollars a tonne. After factoring in the handling and loading charges, the price comes to 182 dollars a tonne. Margin of one dollar and 20 dollars freight to west Asia leads to a price of 203 dollars a tonne CIF.
Main Hoon Na: SRK tells Sonia
Monday, May 31, 2004
PTI NEW DELHI : Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan met Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Sunday, but said it was a courtesy call and had nothing to do with politics. "It has nothing to do with any politics. It was a courtesy call", Khan told reporters after a 30-minute meeting with Gandhi at her residence 10-Janpath. Congress Rajya Sabha MP Rajiv Shukla, who accompanied Shah Rukh to the meeting with Gandhi, said that the film star invited the Congress chief and her family members to watch his latest move Main Hoon Na at Mavalankar Auditorium here. Gandhi and her family members, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka and her husband Robert Vadra accepted the invitation, Shukla said.
Cong-led Govt has led to problems in economy: Naidu
Monday, May 31, 2004
PRESS TRUST OF INDIA Chennai, May 30: BJP president M Venkaiah Naidu said on Sunday that the "unhealthy birth" of Congress-led alliance at Centre has led to problems in the economy and even "tainted" ministers were inducted in the cabinet. "The stock exchange has reacted negatively after the Congress-led coalition came to power at the Centre," Naidu told reporters after addressing the executive committee meeting of Tamil Nadu unit of BJP in Chennai. The Congress-led Government for the first time had even inducted a member of a communal party like IUML in the Union Cabinet and hence the BJP parliamentary party, which would meet in Delhi on Tuesday next, would work out a strategy to deal with such issues in Parliament, he said. Asked whether BJP would boycott tainted ministers as done by the opposition parties in the previous assembly against former Defence Minister George Fernandes, he said this was a suggestion. The party would discuss various issues, including, the move for withdrawal of POTA. On the poll debacle, he said NDA was not inclined to blame any individual for the failure. "It is a collective responsibility. We will not like to blame any individual," he said. He said no individual party had been given mandate by the people and there was no Sonia Gandhi wave, because in Kerala, Karnataka, Punjab and Uttaranchal, where Congress was the ruling party, it had lost in the polls.
Fernandes demands probe into coffin scam
Monday, May 31, 2004
New Delhi, May 30 : NDA convener and JD(U) leader George Fernandes today demanded a speedy and time-bound inquiry into the coffin scam in which there were allegations of corruption against him and the previous NDA government. "I would like to be the first to demand an immediate and speedy enquiry into the 'specific' matter of the purchase of reuseable caskets by the Army Headquarters. The enquiry should not take too much time, say two weeks, since the material is easily available with the Army Headquarters and it will not be a cumbersome task to establish whether I or anyone else has made illegal money out of this stalled procurement," Fernandes said in a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Referring to a media report that senior government and Army officers were queueing up before Congress President Sonia Gandhi and advising her on matters of national security "to get promotions and plum posts", Fernandes said the new government should take immediate action against such officers, who were allegedly leaking official secrets to Sonia Gandhi.
Sonia , SRK to watch Main Hoon Na
Monday, May 31, 2004
NEW DELHI: Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan on Sunday called on Congress president Sonia Gandhi, but denied his visit had anything to do with politics. "It has nothing to do with politics. It was a courtesy call", Khan told waiting reporters after a 30-minute meeting with Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence here. Congress sources said the film star had invited Gandhi and her family to watch his latest film "Main Hoon Na". Gandhi accepted the invitation and the modalities for the screening would be worked out later, the sources said.
Gandhi acting as parallel power centre: Fernandes
Monday, May 31, 2004
New Delhi, May 30 : Janata Dal-United (JD-U) president George Fernandes Sunday accused Congress president Sonia Gandhi of acting as a parallel power centre to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Fernandes, the former defence minister, told reporters here that ministers and bureaucrats were calling on Gandhi and briefing her about ministerial and official matters, many of which were of a confidential nature. This was happening even though Gandhi was under no obligation not to reveal such information to others, he claimed. Quoting from a report in a national daily, Fernandes said: "Career-minded officers are queuing outside the residence of Gandhi, who is only an MP and the chief of the Congress party. "This (trend) gives rise to many legal and security questions," he said, noting that after taking oath as a minister, no individual is allowed to communicate or reveal confidential matters to anyone except during the discharge of official duties. Criticising the newspaper report for suggesting that Gandhi should be provided an institutionalised voice to avoid criticism for acting as an extra-constitutional power, he wondered what the paper meant by "institutionalisation". "She is only an MP and chief of the Congress party," he said, while accusing Gandhi of belittling the office of the prime minister. The main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party, an ally of the JD-U, has levelled similar allegations against Gandhi, which have been refuted by Congress leaders. Manmohan Singh assumed the high office May 22 after Gandhi, the more powerful party president, stepped aside.
CMP insult to people's mandate: CPI-ML
Monday, May 31, 2004
Patna: The CPI-ML (Liberation) today alleged that the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) was an "eyewash and an insult to the peoples mandate" and asked the Left parties not to blindly support the agenda of the UPA. The CMP is treachery of people's mandate and the Left parties should not blindly support it," the party National general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya told a press conference. Bhattacharya, however, said he did not intend in anyway, to influence the Left parties supporting the government from outside. On the Congress President Sonia Gandhi's refusal to accept the Prime ministership, he said by doing this it has become clear that Sonia did it under a well thought of plan for the sake of her party. Expressing doubt over the Manmohan Singh government completing its full five year term, Bhattacharya said the UPA now stood exposed with induction of the tainted leaders in the Union cabinet. He criticised the government for its alleged anti-people economic policy. He, however, hailed the decision to scrap the POTA and demanded withdrawal of all the cases instituted under POTA and TADA.
Uuf Kya Jaadoo Mohabbat Hai
Saturday, May 29, 2004
Director : Music : Lyrics : Starring : Manoj J. Bhatia Sandesh Shandilya Mehboob Sammir Dattani, Pooja Kanwal, Sachin Khedekar, Daisy Irani, Mrinal Kulkarni By Subhash K. Jha, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." This sums up the last and by far the most unpalatable lap of the Rajshris' new romantic musical, when the villain morphs the guileless hero's image in a compromising position, when sex is the last thing on young Yash's mind. Uuf Kya Jaadoo Mohabbat Hai...takes us back to the arcadian innocence of puppy love in Raj Kapoor's Bobby where young people just wanna have fun, and the birds and the bees can go fly a kite. The Rajshris deserve credit for returning to the theme of innocent love at a time when Hindi cinema candidly addresses adultery, pre-marital sex and abortion, and where protagonists have healthy sexual appetites. Yash (Sammir Dattani) and Pari (Pooja Kanwal) strike us as cutely conspicuous anachronisms, out of step with the cinematic definition of man-woman relationships. Love, according the time-warped Rajshris, is meaningless when fastened to sex. In Uuf Kya Jaadoo, while the young lovebirds have fun, another couple (newcomers Mini Tiwari and Aziz) have sex. In all fairness the romantic duets are pleasant to watch, thanks to the young pair who are easy on the eyes, fresh-faced and eager to please but never overt in their desire to make an impact. Also, it's to story writer and director Manoj J. Bhatia's credit that he keeps the proceedings stark simple and straightforward almost to the end. Boy Meets Girl in a scenic splendour, and for a change, it's the girl who falls head-over-heels in love with the singing dancing desi-romantic Peter Pan...and guess what? The girl's rich Papa (Sachin Khedekar) has no objection whatsoever to the economically mismatched alliance. For most of the film the debutant director blissfully recreates the idyllic sanitised intimacy of his mentor Sooraj Barjatya 's romances. The young couple steals giggly glances, as the extended family plays Housie (remember the antakshari in Maine Pyar Kiya and the pass-the-pillow in "Hum Aapke Hain Koun"). It's only when the film gets into the mood to morph Yash Chopra's "Dil To Pagal Hai" that you begin to lose patience with the analgesic arcadia of the presentation. Yash's dancing partner and childhood buddy, played by newcomer Mini Tiwari is entirely modelled on Karishma Kapoor in Yash Chopra's film. Even the plot details (for example the girl's accident which forces the hero to choose the heroine as his dancing partner) are straight from the other film. No harm in going back to the successful works of pop art for sustenance and renewal of mainstream traditions in Hindi cinema. Trouble is, "Uuf Ka Jadoo..." doesn't go anywhere. It celebrates the status quo with a supreme disdain for changing tastes and mutating definitions of cinematic entertainment. While the lead pair smiles coyly at one another as though they were Salman Khan and Bhagyashree from Maine Pyar Kiya, the supporting cast hobnobs daintily over bowls of aromatic 'halwa' and bon-china cups of tea. If on one level the film's 'innocence' exasperates on another level it's also comforting to watch a film that boldly dispenses with sleaze and smut and talks of love as more than just a four-letter word. The two newcomers are more watchable than most of the more with-it but less watchable wannabes who queue up for stardom. For a debutant Sammir Dattani is remarkably confident in his dancing and courtship sequences. He'd have made as strong an impression as Hrithik Roshan, Abhishek Bachchan and Shahid Kapur in their debut film, if the material provided had more meat. Given a less wispy, vehicle Dattani could fill the slot lying long vacant, that of the teenybopper hero. Alas, the era of innocent love is gone! As a homage to a genre that's now extinct "Uuf Kya Jaadoo..." is a decent enough excursion into a rose-tinted terrain of designer pleasures and pain. The film is beautifully styled. The background music (Surinder Sodhi), art design (Samir Chanda) and editing (Shrish Kunder) are comparable with anything we see in any of Yash Chopra's cinema. But hey, this is no "Dil To Pagal Hai" And there lies the crux of the problem.
Girlfriend
Saturday, May 29, 2004
The censor Board must be ready with their scissors. They do seem to have plenty on their hands. With films becoming Bolder than before, filmmakers are not only experimenting with new subjects, but also with the audience. A film titled "Girlfriend" may at first glance seem simple. If the title is anything to go by, then it is about a female protagonist who plays ladylove to Mr. X. But Karan Razdan believes in doing things a little differently. His current project titled" Girlfriend", has an unusual twist to it. Having completed "Hawas", his latest film Girlfriend is slated for a May release. Produced by Harry Baweja of 'Qayamat' fame, the films Starrs Ashish Chowdhry, Isha Koppikar and Amrita Arora. The story explores the concept of 'lesbianism'. Amrita and Isha are childhood friends in the film. Isha's character by nature is obsessive. Having had a difficult childhood, she is possessive of her friend (the character played by Amrita Arora). Talking about her role in the film, Isha Koppikar (in an excerpt from an interview) claimed" "I play a character who did not have a normal childhood. I am very possessive about my friend Amrita. When Ashish enters her life, my possessiveness turns into obsession." Amrita further adds in,"Especially after my item-number 'Dilli Ki Sardi', I am making a conscious effort of doing better and stronger roles. Though I don't know of any real life incident like the one in this film, I can very well relate to the characters. Abroad, young girls do come strongly on members of their same sex." Rumour mills have it that the film is inspired by Richard Gere film' Unfaithful". The story portrays the shades of friendship, love and womanhood. Amrita Arora as Isha Koppikar's childhood friend in the film, is caught between her friend and her boyfriend, played by Ashish Chowdhry. She loves both of them. From Isha's side, it is obvious that it is more than just a platonic relationship. This film just proves that Models are getting their fair share in the film industry. First Karan Shot Shawar Ali In his film "Hawas", now it is the turn of Ashish Chowdhry in Girlfriend. Having played a role in Harry Baweja's Qayamat, Ashish seems to have his hands full. As to why the director thought of such a topic for his film, only he can answer. In an excerpt from an interview, Karan Razdan claimed "There are no hot scenes between the two girls, but you have to read between the lines and understand the film. I have seen such a sandwich in real life. If you see carefully around you, there are many cases of such type." We will have to wait and see the film, to decide if the public can digest such themes. Men beware; such movies are probably portraying reality! http://www.glamsham.com/
Dev
Saturday, May 29, 2004
Legendary in their own way, India’s finest actors will ignite the silver screen with their performances in the upcoming film Dev, directed by one of India’s leading directors, Govind Nihalani. Amitabh Bachchan and Om Puri are distinct entities and for the first time they will be seen together In ‘Dev’. All three actors are thorough professionals who share a passion for cinema. They have given the film industry some of the best films that will always be cherished. Govind Niahalani has got critical acclaim and wide appreciation for his films that include Ardhsatya, Drishti, Drohkaal, Tamas, Hazar Chaurasi ki Maa. The grapevines have it that this film is a sequel to Nihalani’s earlier film Ardh Satya. The Big B dominates the silver screen. Undoubtedly, he is everyone’s favourite. In an excerpt from an interview he confessed, I have had the desire to work with him (Govind Nihalani) at some point and we have been talking about it on several occasions, but it never happened. Now it has happened, so there is lot of excitement and eagerness to get on and I have a great opportunity to work on with him," Although Nihalani and Om Puri have been out of the news for some time, the combination of two veteran actors and one veteran director will be worth a watch. Contemporary in theme, the film also boasts other big stars like Kareena Kapoor, (the glamour doll) and Fardeen Khan, (the chocolate boy). Interestingly, this film is a cop-saga that centers on two friends Dev (played by Amitabh Bachchan) and Tejinder Khosla (played By Om Puri) who are both police commissioners. Tejinder is Dev’s close friend and he is the balancing force between the political interests of Chief Minister Bhandarker (played by Amrish Puri) and Dev's commitment to the law. Herein steps Fardeen Khan, an unemployed law graduate who believes in peace. But in this thriller, wherein Nihalani makes an attempt at commercial cinema, (which is rare), Fardeen as Farhaan plays an emotionally disturbed lad. His downfall begins with the death of his father Ali Saheb. A disturbed Farhaan, becomes anti-social when probed by Dev, albeit unintentionally. Form here the story takes a turn. We see the protagonists caught in a web of events. Kareena Kapoor plays the role of Aaliya, a simple girl caught up in complicated circumstances. She plays Fardeen’s ladylove in the film and becomes his confidante. Fardeen as Farhan joins forces with Lati, an ambitious and corrupted politician and together they spark off a series of terrorist attacks in the city. And Dev takes it upon him to personally eliminate the anti-social elements in society and prevent further calamity. Slated for a June 2004 release, the music of the film has been composed by Aadesh Shrivastav. And after A very long time, we will see Amitabh Bachchan reversing roles from playing the role of an angry young man to that of an ‘angry old man’. http://www.glamsham.com/movies/previews/dev.asp
Asambhav
Saturday, May 29, 2004
What makes Asambhav-The Impossible so special? Is it because Asambhav is Arjun Rampal's first action film? Is it because Arjum Rampal and Priyanka Chopra will be seen together on the silver screen for the first time? Or is it because this is the first film to be shot in Locarno for 65 days consecutively? Well, all this and more. With the entire film being digitalized, no duplicates have been used while recording. With seven cameras rolling simultaneously, editing this film must have been difficult, but when you see the promos on TV, you know what to expect out of the film. It is a thriller that deals with the theme of espionage. There is no mushy romance in the film. However, the film does have underlying emotions, as emotions are the backbone of Bollywood films. The music has been composed by Viju Shah, who seems to be Rajiv Rai's Lucky Talisman. The movie has been edited very slickly. Produced by Gulshan Rai, the film is slated for a July release. Lyrics of the film have been composed by Sameer. This espionage story takes birth in Locarno (Switzerland). Mohan Agashe as a high ranking Indian diplomat is kidnapped along with his daughter Kinjal (Dippanita Sharma) while holidaying in Switzerland. And this is the work of mastermind criminal Ansari (Milind Gunaji). Planning a conspiracy of international dimension, Ansari hires the Mabros Mercenaries (Shawar Ali and gang) to kidnap the diplomat and his daughter. They are kept under siege at the Brissago Islands. What Ansari has in mind is to exchange the diplomat for the international terrorist group Al-Hamas led by Yuzan (Mukesh Rishi). From here, the movie gets more and more interesting and at the same time, complicating. Ansari must pay $50 million to the Mabros Mercenaries in order to obtain Yuzan. The Mabros Mercenaries are unaware of the entire situation. The story weaves more and more webs as this information is mistakenly passed on to the army head quarters. The army then takes a decision of sending Captain Aadit Arya on an undercover mission (code named Asambhav) to Switzerland to investigate the situation and to bring the diplomat back safely. Meanwhile, Ansari takes the help of Sam Hans (Naseeruddin Shah) and Brian (Tom Alter) to pay $50 million to the Mabros Mercenaries. The duo in turn ask Dabral (Asif Zakaria) and his brother to con pop singer Alisha (Priyanka Chopra) and get her involved in the plan. However, on their arrival at Locarno, Alisha's friend Shilpa is shot by Ansari and his men. Baffled and perplexed, Alisha runs to the Indian embassy for help. This is when Capt. Aadit comes face to face with Alisha. He offers to help her in her predicament. Capt. Aadit is accompanied by Atul Bhatnagar (Jammel Khan) who being an intelligence officer is unaware about Aadit's true identity or his mission. Arya along with Alisha and Atul poses as a Journalist to get to the core of the matter. Aadit then finds out that there is something wrong within the embassy itself. Parmar (Yashpal Sharma) is the security in charge at the Indian Embassy in Locarno. A friend to Sam Hans, his ulterior motive is to get the $50 million for himself. Thus the real battle is between Sam Hans, Ansari, the Mabros and Yuzan. It's all about the money! This further complicates Aadit's mission as he has two tasks ahead of him: to rescue the diplomat and his daughter and to wipe off these international criminals. But there is nothing contradictory about the movie title. What seems Asambhav initially becomes sambhav at the end of the film. This movie will be truly enjoyed with popcorn and cold drink in hand! A mind boggling film, Asambhav will appeal to all audiences as Asambhav is "an illusion of reality". http://www.glamsham.com/movies/previews/asambhav.asp
Lakshya
Saturday, May 29, 2004
Luck seems to have favoured Hritik Roshan once again. After a series of flops, Koi Mil Gaya came as a blessing in disguise for Junior Roshan. Hritik won several awards for Koi Mil Gaya, which Brought him in the limelight once again. And it gets even better with Farhan Akhtar's second film 'Lakshya'. Hritik will be paired for the third time with the dimpled smile, bubbly and vivacious Preity Zinta. Hritik is a dedicated actor who tries very hard. In an excerpt from an interview, Hritik claims' I'm not talented, I'm hardworking'. Well the efforts are bearing fruit. The promos have already raised several eyebrows. Only one film old, director Farhan Akhtar is making waves with his second Hindi film 'Lakshya', that promises to be a film with a difference. Farhan Akhtar has to be complimented for his directorial style. With extreme subtlety, Farhan fuses various themes that become so easy to digest, even if it caters to a common man. War has fascinated the biggest names in the industry and each director has a way of handling the subject. One can be assured that Farhan Akhtar's film will say a lot without becoming a war film. It covers themes like search for the self, a man's mission in life, love, honour, patriotism, (without promoting Jingoistic feelings). Shot in Ladakh, Dehradun and Delhi, the film, focuses on the Pakistani intrusion of Kargil (Jammu and Kashmir) in 1999 and operation Vijay, where Hritik's character (Jimmy Shergill) has been incorporated in a fictitious manner. 'Lakshya' depicts the metamorphosis of its male protagonist where the search for the self finally comes to an end. Javed Akhtar (who has written the script for his son's second film) has turned to script writing after a hiatus of 15 years. Lakshya is the journey of a teenager who never worries about his future. Born to rich parents, he does not take anything seriously until one day..Preity Zinta plays the female protagonist in the film. Portraying the character of Romila Dutta, Preity plays a journalist in the film who is in love with Karan (Hritik Roshan). She believes that Karan will have a bright future. Lakshya also Starrs the 'Angry Young Man' Amitabh Bachchan, as he was famously called in his earlier days. His presence compliments the film. And one expects only the best from Big B. He needs no further defining. His work does all the talking. Seen along the powerful trio, are other actors like Nawab, Prashant, Sharad Kapoor, Boman Irani, (whose comic timing is fantastic), Sushant Singh and the versatile actor Om Puri. Interestingly, this will be the second film, after Govind Nihalnai's Dev, where the big B will be seen once again with Om Puri. What is also interesting is that, the last time Javed Akhtar and Amitabh Bachchan worked together was in 1989, when Akhtar wrote the script for the film 'Main Azad Hoon'. Ritesh Sidhwani, having produced Farhan's Debut film 'Dil Chahta Hai', is once again producing Farhan's film 'Lakshya'. Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy have composed the music of Lakshya. After the huge success of Dil Chahta Hai, the expectations are high from the three musicians who have given a new meaning to Indian music by blending it with new tunes, beats and melodies. Seems like Farhan really believes in teamwork. Preity remains a favourite. The last time Farhan Approached Hritik was for his film 'Dil Chahta Hai'. But busy schedules kept the superstar away. But not this time. Farhan Akhtar also knows how to keep his audience waiting. But no one is complaining. It is worth the wait. http://www.glamsham.com/
Sensex tumbles by 223 pts as CMP disappoints market
Saturday, May 29, 2004
Mumbai, May 28 The sensex crashed by 223 points today wiping out over Rs 51,000 crore of investors wealth on across-the-board sell-off by investors disillusioned by the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of the United Progressive Alliance. The BSE Benchmark 30-share Index opened sharply lower at 5026.92 and later plunged to the intra-day low of 4821.59 before ending at 4835.39, a steep fall of 223.16 points or 4.41 per cent. Extremely disappointed over the CMP that put disinvestment, labour reforms and privatisation of power utilities on the backburner, Foreign Institutional Investors (FII) pressed heavy sales across the spectrum, brokers said. Power as well as PSU and Banking sectors bore the brunt of the sell-off and registered huge losses. There was nothing for the market as well as for foreign investments in the CMP which has done little to allay investors fears over the pace and extent of economic reforms. Commenting on the privatisation issue, brokers said though the government is open to disinvestment of upto 49 per cent in PSUs including profitable ones, it has scrapped the disinvestment ministry indicating that majority stake and management control would remain with the government. This will automatically discourage foreign investments in the country.
BJP slams CMP, flays PM for "tainted" Ministers
Saturday, May 29, 2004
BJP slams CMP, flays PM for defending "tainted" Ministers May 28, 2004 05:24:00 PM .NEWDEL DEL60 New Delhi, May 28 BJP today slammed the Common Minimum Programme of the ruling United Progressive Alliance as a "testimony to the confusion, contradictions and compromise that have become their birthmark" and questioned how it would mobilise resources for fulfilling its "grandiose" promises. Terming as "unfortunate" Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's remarks about the inclusion of "tainted" persons in his Ministry, the party said it reflected on the Government's "scant concern for probity" in governance. Taking strong exception to the Congress-led coalition's proposal to repeal POTA, party President M Venkaiah Naidu told reporters here, "the imprint of the pseudo-secular mindset is evident in the CMP's promise. The new Government has chosen to turn a blind eye to the threat of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir and in several parts of the country." Pointing out to the recent ambush in which 29 BSF soldiers and members of their families were killed, he said, "the BJP alerts the nation to the ominous move by the ruling alliance to bring in a terrorist-friendly legislative regime." Naidu described the CMP as a "document prepared with the mindset of the 1960s, completely unsuited to the global and national conditions of 2004." "The compromises struck under the pressure of the Communist parties, who enjoy power without any responsibility, are designed to derail the economy from the fast track growth it recorded under six years of the NDA Government," he said.
Sensex tumbles by 223 pts as CMP disappoints market
Friday, May 28, 2004
Mumbai, May 28 The sensex crashed by 223 points today wiping out over Rs 51,000 crore of investors wealth on across-the-board sell-off by investors disillusioned by the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of the United Progressive Alliance. The BSE Benchmark 30-share Index opened sharply lower at 5026.92 and later plunged to the intra-day low of 4821.59 before ending at 4835.39, a steep fall of 223.16 points or 4.41 per cent. Extremely disappointed over the CMP that put disinvestment, labour reforms and privatisation of power utilities on the backburner, Foreign Institutional Investors (FII) pressed heavy sales across the spectrum, brokers said. Power as well as PSU and Banking sectors bore the brunt of the sell-off and registered huge losses. There was nothing for the market as well as for foreign investments in the CMP which has done little to allay investors fears over the pace and extent of economic reforms. Commenting on the privatisation issue, brokers said though the government is open to disinvestment of upto 49 per cent in PSUs including profitable ones, it has scrapped the disinvestment ministry indicating that majority stake and management control would remain with the government. This will automatically discourage foreign investments in the country.
Dixit takes charge as National Security Advisor
Friday, May 28, 2004
PTI NEW DELHI : Former Foreign Secretary J N Dixit on Thursday took charge as the new National Security Advisor in the Prime Ministers' Office. Dixit drove to South Block in his Toyota Corolla car to assume office which was held by Brajesh Mishra in the previous Vajpayee Government. He did not interact with the waiting reporters outside South Block but gave an opportunity for photographs. Dixit was appointed the National Security Advisor in the Prime Ministers' Office yesterday for three years. He would enjoy the rank of Minister of State. Dixit, who had held several key positions while in the Foreign Service, including High Commissioner to Pakistan and Sri Lanka , was instrumental in formulating the Congress agenda on defence, security and foreign policy matters before the Lok Sabha elections. He is Vice Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Department of the All India Congress Committee. Mishra resigned soon after Manmohan Singh Government assumed office last Saturday.
CMP promises POTA repeal, sell-off slowdown
Friday, May 28, 2004
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi showing the UPA's Common Minimum Programme to the media in New Delhi on Thursday. Photo: New Delhi, May 28. (PTI, UNI): The Congress-led UPA Government on Thursday committed itself to repeal the controversial POTA, prevent privatisation of profit-making Public Sector Units, go for 33 per cent reservation of seats for women in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies and initiate a national dialogue on job reservation for SC and ST people in the private sector. Releasing the Common Minimum Programme of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) on Thursday, its Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said the Congress-led coalition was committed to "implement it in letter and spirit." UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh made these commitments in the presence of leaders of Congress' allies and supporting parties including those from the Left. Six principles Highlighting the six basic principles that will guide the Government's working, Dr Manmohan Singh said the law will be enforced in a free and fair manner as the Centre will pursue policies of social harmony. While committing itself to implement the Places of Worship Act 1992, the document said the Government would await the court verdict on the Ram temple issue but also encourage negotiations between the parties to the dispute. Asserting that there would be no compromise in fight against terrorism, the document said "but given the abuse of POTA that has taken place, the UPA Government will repeal it, while existing laws are enforced strictly." Observing that the Government is committed to a strong and effective public sector whose social objectives are met by its commercial functioning, Singh said efforts would be made to be selective in this area and profit making PSUs "will not be normally privatised." The CMP said the Government is "very sensitive" to the issue to affirmative action, including reservations in the private sector. "It will immediately initiate a national dialogue with all political parties, industry and other organisations to see how best the private sector can fulfill the aspirations of scheduled caste and scheduled tribe youth." "Just a starting point" The Prime Minister said "this is a Common Minimum Programme for the UPA Government. It is, by no means, a comprehensive agenda. "It is a starting point that highlights the main priorities, policies and programmes. The UPA is committed to the implementation of the CMP. This CMP is the foundation for another CMP-- collective maximum performance", he said. The Common Minimum Programme was approved by the Congress, its allies and supporting parties after a marathon four-hour debate last night. In her opening remarks at the press conference as the Chairperson of UPA Coordination Committee, Sonia Gandhi said that the Committee would formally meet once a month to review the progress of the implementation of the programme. The CMP, she said, reflected the mandate given by the people of the country for a strong, stable and secular Government. 7-8pc growth target set The CMP also set a target of 7-8 per cent economic growth annually over the next decade with a pledge to continue reforms with a human face. The Government would frame such policies that will lead the country to a 7-8 per cent growth over a decade, the Prime Minister said. The CMP stressed on a sustainable higher growth with emphasis on employment generation. Singh said the labour-intensive agriculture and SSI sectors needed more attention as they had been neglected in the past few years. Towards this end, the Government would create such an environment that would unleash creative energy of scientists, entrepreneurs and others. The Centre will work towards the welfare of farmers and labourers, particularly those in the unorganised sector, the Prime Minister said. Empowering women and fighting bias The UPA Government will empower women politically, economically and educationally. As regards quota for women in legislative bodies, Singh said the Government would take the lead to introduce legislation for one-third reservation for them in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. Legislation on domestic violence and against gender discrimination will also be enacted, he said The Centre will provide full and equal opportunity for education to scheduled castes, backward castes, minorities and other underprivileged sections of the society, Dr Manmohan Singh said. UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said the CMP reflects the mandate of the people for secular Government. She said that the alliance partners have decided to formally meet once in a month. The programme also gives a special thrust to uplift of the backward section, saying the government would ensure "equality of opportunity" to all including scheduled castes and tribes.
Left 'broadly endorses' CMP
Friday, May 28, 2004
New Delhi, May 28. The Left parties have "broadly endorsed" the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of the Congress-led coalition government but said they had "differing positions" on a range of economic issues and were not in favour of the document addressing the question of new states. "The Left parties broadly endorse the Common Minimum Programme of the United Progress Alliance. The implementation of the CMP will be in consonance with the verdict given by the people," a statement signed by Harkishan Singh Surjeet of CPI(M), A B Bardhan of CPI, Debabrata Biswas of Forward Bloc and Abani Roy of RSP said here on Thursday. Welcoming the CMP, the Left parties which have 64 members in Parliament, said that they were consulted and their views considered in the formulation of the document. Concerns over PDS, Telengana But they said they had "differing positions on a range of economic policies" which concerned privatisation in various sectors, public distribution system and certain fiscal policies. "The Left parties will advocate alternative policies in these matters while continuing to support the Government," the statement said. In an apparent reference to the CMP's promise to consider the demand for Telangana state "at an appropriate time," the Left parties said they were "not in favour of addressing the question of new states through the CMP."
Govt. will not save tainted ministers: PM
Friday, May 28, 2004
New Delhi, May 28.(UNI): The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government will not attempt to save any of its ministers if he or she is found guilty by the court of law, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has said. "I assure the countrymen that we will not stand in the way if any minister of the government is convicted under law of the land," the Prime Minister said on Thursday when asked about the inclusion of some of 'tainted' politicians in his ministry. "A person is innocent unless he is convicted," Dr Singh asserted. He, however, added that the outgoing government too was having some tainted ministers who had been chargesheeeted on various counts. But he did not name any one of them. Asked whether the government would take any action against former Defence Minister George Fernandes in the defence deal case, the Prime Minister remained noncommittal. But he clarified that the Congress party boycotted Fernandes in Parliament because he was re-inducted into the cabinet pending the inquiry instituted by the government in that case. Besides, his reinduction was made despite the government making various commitments to the opposition at that time.
UPA hammers out consensus on contentious issues
Thursday, May 27, 2004
New Delhi, May 26 Congress and its allies in United Progressive Alliance tonight hammered out a broad consensus on contentious issues including repeal of POTA, disinvestment and creation of new states in the Common Minimum Programme to be released tomorrow. The UPA partners elected Congress President Sonia Gandhi as the Chairperson of the ruling Alliance and authorised her to take decisions on appointment of a Convener and spokesperson of the Alliance. The CMP is likely to suggest repeal of the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act, pushed through by previous NDA government, and ensure the passage of the Women's Reservation bill providing for 33 per cent seats for them in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, UPA sources said.
Major defence deals to go through after scrutiny: Pranab
Thursday, May 27, 2004
New Delhi, May 26 The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government today indicated that major pending defence deals running into thousands of crores of Rupees for purchase of strategic weapons platforms would go through only after thorough scrutiny. While affirming that the new Government was all for fast track procurements of weapons systems, Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee cautioned that all deals, some of which are in final stages of clearance, would be vetted again. Declaring the UPA government was for transparency in arms purchases, he said probe could be ordered in some of earlier deals made during NDA rule "if some specific charges come up". The Minister's remarks made in his first informal interaction with mediapersons assume significance as two major deals, for building in India under technology transfer - the French Scorpene killer submarines and 125 multi-role fighter aircraft -- to replace the MiG jets is in final stages. At the same time, he said such vettings were a normal process in change of guard and should not create any panic in the ministry over procurement process. He dispelled any fear that strategic defence ties with Israel might slow down due to change of guard and said there was convergence of views among coalition partners on the country's security interests. Such issues would be worked out in the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of the UPA but "I do not visualise any problem in a multi-party government. We may have divergent views but there is convergence of views when it comes to securing the country," he said.
No roll-back of reforms: Chidambaram
Thursday, May 27, 2004
New Delhi, May 26 Ruling out any roll-back of reforms in the face of Leftist pressure, Finance Minister P Chidambaram said today government policies needed to be fine-tuned to make it painless for the poor. "No one wants a roll-back. I have spoken to the Left. What they want is to go forward but take along the sections of the people, who have been neglected," Chidambaram said, indicating that the new Congress-led government was in favour of pursuing reforms with a human face. There is a need to introduce a "doctrine of proportionality", which meant putting burden on the poor to the extent it is bearable, he told a private channel NDTV in the 'Walk-the-Talk' programme. To a question on subsidy reduction, he said "the burden should be proportionate to their ability to bear it. If somebody cannot bear the burden, what is the point of putting that burden on his shoulder." Meanwhile, Chidambaram is expected to carry forward tax reforms on the lines of the recommendations of the Kelkar panel, which favoured phasing out of tax exemptions besides lowering of tax rates. Kelkar's roadmap revolves around Chidambaram's theory that lower the taxes, higher the compliance. Chidambaram had proved that this works when he was Finance Minister in United Front government.
Re 1 hike in petrol, diesel prices deferred to June 15
Thursday, May 27, 2004
New Delhi, May 26 The oil companies are likely to defer to June 15 an imminent hike in prices of petrol and diesel in view of the Parliament session beginning next week. The new Petroleum Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar today wrote to the Prime Minister for a cut in duties on petroleum products to give relief to national oil firms who have been for the past five months selling fuels at price lower than the cost, informed sources said. Aiyar, who is believed to have written a three-page letter to Manmohan Singh, suggested a three-tier strategy where consumers are passed on the least burden (read price hike) necessitated due to spurt in international crude oil prices. As part of the strategy, prices of petrol and diesel may be raised in the band of Rs 1-1.50 per litre on June 16 (after the Parliament session ends of June 10) to give oil companies additional revenues of Rs 370-505 crores a month, that will help then recoup the Rs 900 crore loss they suffered in January-May on selling petrol and diesel below the cost. The next review of petrol and diesel prices is due on May 31 but the Congress-led government is conscious of avoiding any confrontation with its allies particularly Left, ahead of the Parliament session, so the hike is being deferred. Sources said the state-run firms will be asked to bear one-fourth of the Rs 130 per cylinder under-recovery on cooking gas (LPG). Aiyar has advised lowering of customs duty on LPG to nil from 8 per cent currently and halfing the excise duty on the mass consumed cooking fuel to 8 per cent. After this, only Rs 30 per cylinder will remain to be recovered from consumers which can be done over one year period, they said.
Outsourcing controversy worries Indian Americans
Thursday, May 27, 2004
Washington, May 27 The issue that is of concern to Indian Americans today is how India is perceived because of the issue of outsourcing, according to American legislator Joseph Crowley. Crowley, the Democratic Congressman who is Co-Chairman of the House Caucus on India and Indian Americans, told the American Israel Public Affairs Committee at a meeting held earlier this month that Indian American "believe that there is an element of racism involved, because it is India and not Israel and Ireland where a lot of these IT jobs are going to." In the past, he said, when the jobs were going to Ireland and Israel, it did not get so much attention "but now that there are Indians answering the phone, they feel a great deal of concern about how they are perceived and how India is perceived, and they feel that it is unfair."
Shekhawat, Manmohan, Sonia pay tributes to Nehru
Thursday, May 27, 2004
New Delhi, May 27 Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi today paid tributes to late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 40th death anniversary. Several Union Ministers including Shivraj Patil and Natwar Singh, besides Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and her cabinet colleagues, along with youth Congress activists also paid tributes to the country's first prime minister at 'Shantivan'. Holy chants rented the air as preachers recited verses.
Bardaasht
Thursday, May 27, 2004
Cast : Bobby Deol, Lara Dutta, Ritesh Deshmukh, Tara Sharma, Rahul Dev Director : E Niwas Music : Himmesh Reshammiya Lyrics : Sameer Bardaasht is the story of a man who avenges the death of his younger brother..... Aditya Srivastava, an ex army man was court marshaled for not obeying his senior's orders. He was in love with his senior officers daughter Payal ( Lara Dutta). Their relationship comes to an end after he was dismissed from the army. Aditya gets over his ordeal and starts his life all over again running a successful travel agency. He takes up the responsibility of bringing up his younger brother Anuj (Ritesh Deshmukh) after their parents death. Aditya dotes on his way ward brother, though a brilliant student spends his time in night clubs along with a bunch of friends. He has a girl friend Ramona ( Tara Sharma). One day Anuj gets caught while trying to steal examination papers from the principal's room. The principal warns Aditya and the brothers have a tiff over it and Anuj leaves home in anger. He does not return home even the next day. . A distraught Aditya searches everywhere for his brother and lodges a police complaint only to find that Anuj is no more. He finds his body in a morgue and is told that he is shot by the police while trying to escape, when they were going to arrest him for possessing drugs. Shocked Aditya couldn't believe his brother doing such a thing and smells something fishy in the FIR. When he finds that he couldn't get any further help from the police, he takes it upon himself to reveal the truth. He gets help from his old girl Payal who is now a lawyer. Yeshwant Thakur (Rahul Dev), Sunil Yadav (Ganesh Yadav), and Deepak Sawant (Vishwajeet Pradhan), the three policemen involved in the crime goes to great lengths to make sure that the truth is not revealed. Aditya finds himself forced to take up the gun to prove his brother's innocence The director has presented the story in a slick manner, straight to the point without any unnecessary add-on's. The first half is engrossing. The second half is more predictable. Some of the sequences are handled really well such as the ones where Aditya goes to the police station to file a complaint and when he finds his brother in the morgue etc. Action scenes are well done Bobby proves himself as an actor in an extremely good performance. Performance wise this film may be his best by far. Lara Dutta also does her role convincingly. Tara Sharma as Anuj's girlfriend is good especially in the court room sequences Though the film has a theme which has been retold umpteen times, it is worth watching for its execution.
Krishna Cottage
Thursday, May 27, 2004
Krishna Cottage Cast : Sohail Khan, Natassha, Ishaa Koppikar, Divya Pallat, Hitten Tejwani, Vrajesh Hirjee. Director : Santram Verma Music : Anu Malik Producer : Shobha Kapoor, Ekta Kapoor An horror film from debutant director Santram Verma produced by Ekta Kapoor's Balaji films.. The story is set in a college...Professor Siddartha Ray (Raj Zutshi) launches his book 'Kahi Ankahi Batein' a strange book with nine finished love stories and a tenth one left incomplete. The book is locked up in a room in the college as the principal did not want any student reading it. Manav (Sohail Khan), Shanti (Natasha), Tully, Kabir, Nupur ( Divya Palat) and Armaan are friends studying in the same college. Manav and Shanti are to be engaged. On the day of their engagement a new entrant Disha (Ishaa Koppikar) comes to college. She is also invited for the engagement. Tully tries to woo her but she is not interested. She has eyes only for Manav. Manav saves Disha from getting hurt that day, by pushing her out of the way of a falling chandelier. The friends escort a seemingly dazed Disha home. On the way their car breaks down and they are forced to spend the night in a deserted house and spooky things begin to happen. Disha confesses to having had a boyfriend Amar Khanna who died and how his spirit has been haunting her. In spite of himself Manav is drawn to Disha much to Shanti's chagrin. Shanti wants her love back from Disha's clutches and she decides to fight for it. By the time she learns the strange truth three of her friends are brutally murdered. Their killings are connected with the spirit in the unfinished love story in the strange book read by all of them. It is about a real love story that happened when the author was in college, that ended in tragedy. An exorcist (Rati Agnihotri) is called for, to contact the spirit and she advices Shanu and Manav that the spirit won't harm them once they get married. The spirit arrives during the marriage ceremony and a tussle follows. The film starts well but down the line, it falters. Technically the film is well taken.. visual effects have great impact, some scenes can send a chill down your spine. But logically it has a lot of discrepancies. The friends doesn't seem to have any family and all of them live in their own independent houses .. even when they get killed there are no signs of their family or cops. Even the college seem deserted most of the time except for the friends. Performances are just alright. Sohail is not up to the mark. Natasha is ok in her role and Isha Koppikar leaves an impact. The rest of the friends are ok. Rati Agnihotri is convincing as the exorcist, so is Raj Zutshi as the author of the book. Overall due to the summer vacation it may draw some crowd.. but the film is not up to the mark of recent releases like Bhoot, Raaz in the same genre.
BJP to elect its parliament party leader on June 1: Naidu
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
New Delhi, June 25 (UNI) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold its parliamentary party meeting on June 1, a day ahead of the first session of the 14th Lok Sabha, to elect its parliamentary party leader. The meeting, which will be attended by the 141 newly elected BJP members of the Lok Sabha as well as its Rajya Sabha members, will also chalk out the party's strategy for the June 2-10 session, BJP President M Venkaiah Naidu told reporters. The decision was taken at a meeting Mr Atal Bihari Vajpayee held with Mr Naidu, Mr L K Advani and Mr Jaswant Singh today. Mr Naidu said the meeting took note of the happenings after the installation of the new Congress-led government at the Centre. The BJP leaders also discussed the formation of the party's national executive and the appointment of national office bearers, including those in charge of party affairs in various states. Mr Naidu paried a question on whether Mr Vajpayee had declined to become opposition leader and whether Mr Advani would elected the parliamentary party leader. ''There has been internal discussion and there is no problem on this score,'' he said.
India could lead in nuclear disarmament: Experts
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
New Delhi, May 25 (UNI) Countries like India must take the initiative to begin the 'dismantling' of nuclear weapons programme to free the world of atomic bombs, aver experts. Even as the central issue in nuclear disarmament remains credibility, experts yesterday said stability in relations among superpowers held hope for the future. Despite the fact that the feeling of subjugation or being dominated, led to the developing of nuclear weapons among the Third World, it is actually the West's mindset that assumes hegemony as a way of life which was the stumbling block in doing away with their bit in this direction, said former Foreign Secretary Muchkund Dubey. The recent Indo-Pak conflict has proved that N-Weapons are no deterrent to wars, instead it has led to a mad rush for conventional arms among the have-nots if they can't get to the nuclear threshold, just to give themselves a false sense of security and esteem, said noted columnist and expert on disarmament Jonathan Power. Speaking at a talk session on 'Can We Get Rid of Nuclear Weapons', he said several opportunities, like those during the end of Cold War' days have been lost. Even former US President Jimmy Carter could have persuaded Indian Prime Minister Morarji Desai to roll back its nuclear programme in exchange for some sops. ''But today its a different story,'' he conceded. Quoting an Indian writer who said ''our actual target would be mother earth itself and not Pakistan, China or the US, if we ever used nuclear weapons,'' Mr Power said the assured destruction actually trancends the intricate intellectual riddle. The 'meet' concluded with thrusting the onus on 'big powers' who could actually be helpful in eliminating N-weapons, but for their 'debatable' sense of committment in this regard. ''As long as they stick to their old ways of 'suiting their ends' syndrome and things get flexed to unlimited ends as in Pakistan's case, their sincerity even towards non-proliferation stands questionable,'' added an expert.
Powell, Straw call Natwar Singh
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
New Delhi, May 24 : India's new External Affairs Minister K. Natwar Singh Monday received telephone calls from his British and US counterparts, who congratulated him on assuming office. External affairs ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna said British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw called Singh Monday afternoon and the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and international issues, including the outcome of the recent Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group meeting. US Secretary of State Colin Powell too called Singh Monday afternoon. Powell said he looked forward to working with Singh, who recalled his meeting with Powell during his recent visit to India and his call on Congress party chief Sonia Gandhi. Singh expressed satisfaction at the "excellent bilateral relations" between India and the US and said he too looked forward to working with Powell for "further deepening and enhancing these relations", Sarna said. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Foreign Minister M. Morshed Khan sent a message to Singh Monday, congratulating him on his appointment as external affairs minister. "Bangladesh and India are bound by deep-rooted ties and multifaceted interactions. We share common ideas, traditions and a vast cultural heritage," Khan said. "We are irrevocably bound by our commitment to democratic principles and values and our resolve to promote regional cooperation." Khan said he looked forward to working with Singh to "further strengthen and enrich" bilateral relations and to explore "new, imaginative and forward looking avenues to our mutual benefit".
Modi congratulates Manmohan Singh
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
Gandhinagar, May 24 : Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi has sent a personal letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressing the hope that his government would help realise "India's potential for progress". Modi's official reaction to the change of guard at the centre came a full day after the new government was sworn in. It was only on Sunday evening that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader sent congratulatory letters to all members of the newly instated union cabinet. He said Manmohan Singh had a vast experience of economic management and a distinct vision of economic development. "I hope that India's potential for progress in all sectors would be realised under your leadership," Modi said in his letter to the prime minister. "The people of Gujarat hope the central government remains committed to the economic progress of the state," he added.
US condemns Kashmir terrorist attack
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
New Delhi, May 24 : The US Monday condemned the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir Sunday that killed 29 people, saying there could be no justification for such acts. In a statement issued here, US Ambassador to India David C. Mulford said: "The US is committed to the permanent end of terrorism against India. As we have said repeatedly, violence will not resolve the problems of Jammu and Kashmir. "The global war on terrorism will not be won until such atrocities end against all countries." A total of 29 people, including paramilitary troopers, women and children, were killed in a blast triggered by Hizbul Mujahideen guerrillas on the Jammu-Srinagar highway Sunday.
Income on NRI deposits to be taxed
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
MUMBAI: Stressing that there are dangers of excessive short-term debt in fastchanging global scenario, an RBI constituted internal group has recommended that interest income from NRI deposits may be taxed like domestic deposits consistent with current account convertibility. Interest on non-resident external (NRE) term deposits may also be changed to London inter-bank offered rate (Libor) of corresponding maturity, the internal group on external liabilities of scheduled commercial banks said in its report to the central bank. In the recent past, there have been attempts to reduce India ’s external debt by prepayment but NRI deposits have been a major source of increase in external debt in this period. The group is of the view that in the fast-changing global scenario, there are dangers of excessive shortterm debt and its share in overall external debt should be low. The off-balance sheet exposures of banks in terms of foreign currency are restricted with safeguards on quantum of such exposures and are not likely to raise any systemic problem, it said. NRI deposit schemes were given tax benefits in the past to attract foreign exchange funds in the times of pressing balance of payments. However, over the years, NRI deposit inflows have become much larger and there is no need to give such benefits on these deposits in light of the comfortable forex reserves. RBI’s group was also of the view that India is not exposed to any risk of dollarisation for the present. RBI’s internal group, on dollarisation, said continuous monitoring of external liabilities becomes imperative to ensure that it is not exposed to risk of dollarisation. All foreign currency accounts that are allowed to residents for transaction purpose should be non-interest bearing so that risk of dollarisation is under check, it said in the report released for seeking public comments. The resident foreign currency (RFC) scheme may be made non-interest bearing. The EEFC and RFC(d) accounts should continue to remain non-interest bearing, the group added. The group recommended that reserve and liquidity requirements (CRR and SLR) on NRI deposits may be left unaltered for the present. NRE savings deposits interest rate may be delinked from domestic savings deposit rate and may have the ceiling of one month Libor or swap rates on US dollar deposits. Non-resident ordinary (NRO) deposits may have the nature of current or savings accounts only. The existing NRO term or recurring deposits may be allowed to be maintained till maturity.
Thackeray predicts fall of UPA govt in one year
Monday, May 24, 2004
Mumbai, May 24: The inherent contradictions in the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) would lead to the fall of Manmohan Singh government within a year, according to Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray. "There is a remote control of Left parties for the ruling dispensation, which has also got leaders like Laloo Prasad Yadav and Sharad Pawar, who lack co-ordination ... the UPA lacks political homogeneity and it will last for a year or so," Thackeray was quoted as saying in the party mouthpiece `Saamna' today. The Sena patriarch blamed the disinvestment policy of the NDA regime for its poor showing at the electoral hustings. "We had warned them about rampant disinvestments, but our suggestions went unheeded," he said. The Congress-led UPA would also initiate action against decisions of the previous regime and might appoint an inquiry commission, he claimed but did not elaborate. Stating that he would be touring the state for the forthcoming Assembly elections, Thackeray exuded confidence that the Sena-BJP combine would storm back to power in Maharashtra. The Sena chief's comments came during a photoshoot on the six-lane Mumbai-Pune expressway yesterday. He was posing for ace lensman Avinash Gowarikar in connection with an upcoming book, edited by his nephew and Sena leader Raj Thackeray. (Agencies)
Uma Bharti's battle against Sonia continues
Monday, May 24, 2004
Bhopal, May 24: After waging a war to stop Sonia Gandhi from taking over as Prime Minister, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Uma Bharti today asked BJP MPs from the state to bring a private members' bill in the first session of the 14th Lok Sabha to prevent people of foreign origin from occupying any top post. "I want to take the battle against people of foreign origin assuming high offices including Prime Ministership to its logical conclusion. We must be armed with effective legal provisions barring such people from holding top posts," Bharti said here. The firebrand BJP leader said though today the Congress president has not become the Prime Minister, "the war is ahead as similar situations could crop up in future too." She said she has held detailed discussions with BJP's state unit president Kailash Joshi and organisational general secretary Kaptan Singh Solanki as also senior central leaders about her proposal. She said she has spoken to the Members of Parliament from Madhya Pradesh on the need to have legal measures to prevent people of foreign origin from occupying top posts like that of Prime Minister. In a bid to make it a `foolproof' arrangement, she also favours legal provisions debarring persons of foreign origin from even contesting parliamentary and Assembly elections, leaving no scope for them at all to hold any important posts in the Centre or in states. (Agencies)
Defence deals by previous govt could be probed: Mukherjee
Monday, May 24, 2004
New Delhi, May 24 Affirming that the new Government would strive for total transparency in armament purchases, Defence Minister Pranab Mukurjhee today said some of the defence deals entered into by the NDA regime could be looked into. "If specific charges come up regarding defence deals concluded by the BJP-led Government, these would be looked into", Mukurjhee told newsmen as he assumed office. The new Government, he said, was committed to bring in total transparency in defence purchases. Mukherjee said the new Government wanted to ensure that institutional arrangement for arms procurement was made transparent and these cover both emergency and well as regular pruchases. Spelling out the priorities of the new Government on security issues, he said the ongoing modernisation and upgradation of weaponary and training of the armed forces would be carried out with redoubled vigour and emphasis would be to ensure that all allocated funds for strategic systems were utilised and not not allowed to lapse as was happening earlier. "The budget resources of the country are scarce and efforts have to be made that they are optimally spent. Whatever is required for security of the nation would be made available", he said.
Govt does not consider POTA necessary law: Patil
Monday, May 24, 2004
New Delhi, May 24 Government does not consider the controversial POTA a "necessary" law and will examine its various aspects before deciding its fate, Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil said today. "We do not consider POTA as necesary but we will examine the issue carefully and not take any hasty measure," Patil told here. While Law Minister H R Bharadwaj said the Congress-led Government did not relish POTA and steps would be taken to repeal or amend the statute, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad was of the view that the Government would go by the Common Minimum Programme (CMP). With Left parties and Southern allies of the Congress being strongly opposed to the anti-terrorism measure, the draft CMP has described the law as "grossly misused" in the last two years and suggested its abbrogation. Replying to questions after taking over as the Home Minister, Patil said "my party's (Congress) stand on POTA is well known. Now that we have taken over, we will have to see all the aspects of this law." Asked that the Law Minister has stated that he would be submitting his views on POTA to Home Ministry, he said "this is a coalition government. We will have to consult every ally of ours before taking the matter to the Cabinet." When reporters asked Patil to make a clear statement as to whether POTA would be repealed or amended, he said "please wait for the Common Minimum Programme (CMP)" which is expected to be announced on May 27.
Karnataka PCC chief seeks three days time to form govt
Monday, May 24, 2004
Bangalore, May 24 KPCC President B Janardhan Poojary today met Governor T N Chaturvedi and sought three days' time for formation of the government in the state by his party, which is negotiating with the JD(S) for a coalition. Speaking to reporters after meeting the governor, Poojary said he was personally in favour of adopting the 'Maharashtra model' of coalition in Karnataka and a proposal in this regard had been made to the party high command. In Maharashtra, the Congress, as the bigger partner, is heading the coalition government and has left the Deputy Chief Minister's post to its junior partner, the NCP. The Congress-JD(S) talks for the last few days have centred around this issue. Replying to a query, Poojary said, "as a last resort, we may sit in the opposition".
Economy in resilient mode; growth to be priority: FM
Monday, May 24, 2004
New Delhi, May 24 Finance Minister P Chidambaram today said the Indian economy is in a resilient mode and his priority would be to consolidate the growth momentum with special emphasis on agriculture, manufacturing and employment. "Economy is in a resilient mode and I am confident about consolidation of the growth momentum with emphasis on agriculture, manufacturing and employment," Chidambaram said at his first press conference after taking charge of his Ministry. Stressing that his endeavour would be to promote investment, he said it was the key to job growth and income. "Agriculture, manufacturing and our commitment to boost employment will require a massive investment, both public and private," he said. He said government's commitment to fiscal responsibility will be honoured. "We will find money for public investment...We are bound by the Fiscal Responsibility Bill. It provides a roadmap that helps in achieving our objectives," he said. "I believe policies adopted since 1991 have brought strength and benefitted the economy," he said.
Merrill Lynch downgrades Indian stock markets
Monday, May 24, 2004
Mumbai, May 24 Faced with uncertainty over economic reforms process under the new Congress-led government, global investment banking outfit Merrill Lynch has downgraded India to "market weight" category and said the near term disappointment could accelerate selling that has until recently been rather modest. Congress' win in the Indian elections cast a major cloud over the near term outlook for the equity market, it said adding "we do not question Congress' reform credentials but rather those of its coalition partners." Downgrading India from "over weight" to "market weight" category, Merrill Lynch Asia Pacific - India strategy report asked investors to cut exposure to the Indian stock market. "Change in the government leaves the reforms process, fiscal and monetary situation, in question. Valuations are not compelling enough given the outlook for the risk premium and India remains overweight amongst international investors," it said. The near term policy disappointment could accelerate selling that has until recently been rather modest. The public finances could come under pressure and asset sales become slow, placing upward pressure on rates, it said.
Centre to effectively deal with terrorism in J-K: Home Minister
Monday, May 24, 2004
New Delhi, May 24 The Centre would effectively deal with terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir while continuing the dialogue process with "everyone" concerned and ensuring social harmony in the country, new Home Minister Shivraj Patil today said. 69-year-old Patil made it clear that POTA was "not not necessary" but he will examine the issue carefully and not take any hasty measure. The other priorities before him include dealing with the situation prevailing in the North East, left wing extremism, creating "good relations" between the Centre and the States and modernisation of police forces. "We shall take steps which would not not allow such things to happen in the manner in which they are happening (in J and K). What steps have been taken will be considered. We will continue with what has been done," Patil, a former Lok Sabha Speaker, told. He was replying to a question on what measures the UPA Government proposed to take in dealing with the situation in the Jammu and Kashmir especially in the wake of yesterday's landmine blast killing BSF jawans, women and children. Asked about the dialogue with separatist Hurriyat Conference initiated by the previous NDA Government, he said he would like to talk "with everyone" concerned in J and K.
Shart - The Challenge
Monday, May 24, 2004
Director Poori Jagannath Producer T. Trivikrama Rao Cast Tusshar Kapoor, Gracy Singh, Amrita Arora Character Sketch Tusshar Kapoor as Karan Kapoor Karan is an ad film artiste, producer and director. He has won some international awards in his profession. He practices his profession in India while his parents live in America. Gracy Singh as Sonam Sonam is a lovely girl and moves about very closely with Karan Kapoor. She lives with her mother. Amrita Arora as Sarayu Sarayu is the dearest and only sister of a big industrialist of the city, Nanda Prakashraj). Anupam Kher as Dr Mathur Dr. Mathur is Karan's father. He brought up Sonam as a member of his own family after the death of her father, who was his bosom friend. He wants to get Karan married to Sonam. Storyline Karan has a habit of involving himself in all types of challenges and mostly he wins. While Karan and Sonam go about singing and dancing, there comes a moment when an argument develops between them regarding 'Love'. They argue on the topic of how love blossoms between a boy and a girl. Sonam believes in 'Love at first Sight' while Karan opposes that theory vehemently saying 'Love at first sight' is nothing but infatuation. True love generates with acquaintance and friendship. She does not agree with him. Finally she challenges Karan to befriend and propose a girl of her choice. If he succeeds in doing so, she will accept defeat and present Karan with a gift, which he has to accept. Karan accepts the challenge. Just then one beautiful girl steps down the temple stairs towards her car. Sonam points at her as the target for their challenge. The girl is none other than Sarayu. Adopting different methods, Karan ultimately strikes a chord of friendship with Sarayu. One day, Sarayu's brother Nanda sees them together. Nanda and his goons simply thrash people black and blue if they dare to cast an evil eye on Sarayu. He goes to Karan's office along with his henchmen. After heavy scuffle Nanda gives Karan strict warning to keep aloof from his sister Sarayu. Seeing the rough behavior of Nanda and his gang, Sonam expresses her wish to withdraw her challenge. But Karan is now more determined to face Nanda at any cost. Sarayu learns about this confrontation and fearing further worsening of the situation decides to reveal every thing to her brother Nanda. While he is in a jolly mood she confesses of her love. But Nanda gets enraged and disapproves of Karan. Highly depressed by this, Sarayu attempts suicide. Karan learns about the suicide attempt of Sarayu and runs to the hospital to meet her. When Karan enters Sarayu's room, Nanda tries to stop him. Again a scuffle erupts between the two, which is paused by Sarayu's emotional outburst. Seeing her in that condition, Nanda feels very sad and says he would have approved of their marriage but Karan is a cheat. He is in love with another girl and they are going to marry shortly. Sarayu does not believe this. When she questions Karan, he says what Nanda has said is a fact. He divulges of his challenge with Sonam. Sarayu feels more betrayed and starts moving out. Sonam observes all this and tells Karan that he has won the challenge for which her gift to him is Sarayu's hand. i.e. Karan has to marry Sarayu. But Sarayu confronts Sonam claiming, You and Karan have been loving each other since a long time. So you should marry him and not me. Finally Karan's marriage is celebrated with one of these girls. Who is that girl and how it happens forms the climax part of the story. Cast and Crew Shart is produced by T. Trivikrama Rao and written-directed by Poori Jagannath. Others in the starcast include Shakti Kapoor, Vrajesh Hirjee, Rajpal Yadav, Snehal Dhabi, Himani Shivpuri and National Award Winner Prakashraj. Anu Malik composes the music while Sameer has written the lyrics.
Hum Tum
Monday, May 24, 2004
Director Kunal Kohli Producer Yash Chopra Music Jatin Lalit Cast Saif Ali Khan, Rani Mukherjee Film critic cum television host turned director Kunal Kohli who debuted with Yash Raj Films Mujhse Dosti Karoge returns with his second directorial venture Hum Tum under the same production banner. Karan Kapoor (Saif Ali Khan) works with one of India's leading newspapers as a cartoonist. Hum Tum are his cartoon characters. His daily column comes under the title of Hum Tum. Hum Tum because that's how he sees the world divided. No countries, no religions, just two divisions - boys and girls. Karan met Rhea (Rani Mukerjee) for the first time in Amsterdam. They disagree on everything. So to put things right, Karan innocently kiss her...to confirm their friendship. But things go worse with the unstable Rhea and the meeting end on a bad note. Six months later the duo meet once again in New York. And Rhea hasn't forgotten the Amsterdam kiss. So she decides to let the cat out of the bag and Karan's loses his steady girlfriend. Another relationship down the drain! It's been 10 years since their first encounter. Once again Rhea and Karan become friends despite their differences. Rhea has gone through some personal tragedies in her life, lots of ups and downs but Karan has always been there for her. During this time, she has moved all over the place, from Mumbai to Paris to New York and back to Mumbai. Karan even try fixing her up with a friend of his - with her mother's permission of course - but as with everything else, this don't quite work out either. Meanwhile, as luck would have it, Karan's career, as a cartoonist goes soar. One thing leads to another and Rhea take off once again on a bad term with him. But despite their mishaps, destiny has bigger plans for Karan and Rhea. Produced by Yash Chopra, Hum Tum also stars Rishi Kapoor and Kiron Kher. Jatin Lalit has composed the music. Hum Tum will make a worldwide release on May 28, 2004. Indiafm
Main Hoon Na
Monday, May 24, 2004
Shah Rukh Khan, Sushmita Sen, Zayed Khan, Amrita Rao, Suneil Shetty Director: Farah Khan Genre: Comic Thriller - Siddharth Patankar She has charmed us over the years with hit songs and she is neither an actress, a singer, nor a music director she has made songs famous for their moves on screen. Farah Khan Bollywood’s ace choreographer has taken the director’s megaphone into her hands. And it’s been a long time coming. Her friend offered to produce her first film and what’s more even agreed to star in it. And that pretty much sums it all up. For Farah, he said Main Hoon Na. And we all have come to realise that at the Indian box office also Woh Hi Hain Na! Shah Rukh Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Shah Rukh Khan the badshaah of Bollywood. And boy does he deserve that title. Main Hoon Na would not have worked without King Khan. And here’s why. The film is an out and out entertainer. Masala, romance, family drama, and some good old fashioned dhishoom dhishoom. No sex please we are Indian and so it also qualifies as a wholesome family entertainer. But I think Farah (I usually address people by their last names but there are too many Khans in this one!) has tried too hard. Its like when you set out to make the perfect pasta sauce you make sure you got the basics it’s when you try and over season that’s where the problem lies for Farah. So there’s a broken family no actually there are two broken families, there is a school full of lovable morons, there is a terrorist who’s not quite a terrorist but has gone over the edge, and of course there is India-Pakistan friendship the flavour of the season. Too much what say? But now for the bits I did like! And thankfully there were many. Sushmita Sen, Sushmita Sen and oh yes Sushmita Sen. This is the best the lass has looked on screen she is simply bewitching. And the good part about the former Miss Universe is we know she can act unlike her first runner up at Miss India. I wish Farah had given her more screen time but unlike the usual roles in hero-centric films, the leading lady here does manage to stand out so kudos to Farah. She has also lifted certain elements from various other movies. And the good part is that Farah is no copycat the lifts are intentional to make you smile, laugh or go wide eyed. So there’s a scene where Shahrukh gets on a cycle rickshaw named Dhanno & chases an SUV full of baddies Sholay revisited, he does a Matrix - bending over backwards to avoid being spit on by a lispy Satish Shah, he flies and freezes mid air ala Tom Cruise in MI:2, and of course every bullet that’s fired can be seen in slow motion, up close its path being charted out in the air. And my favourite lift? Shahrukh Khan is Major Ram Prasad Sharma, and his brother played by Zayed Khan is Laxman Prasad Sharma remember Golmaal where Amol Palekar is Ram Prasad and creates his own twin Laxman Prasad or Lucky? Well Major Ram (God knows why they can’t seem to call him Major Sharma) is a Para Commando. His father is a Brigadier (a cameo by Naseeruddin Shah) and gets killed by India’s most wanted terrorist Raghavan (Suneil Shetty). On his death bed Brig Sharma tells Ram about his wife and other son, and how Ram must unite the family. Meanwhile, Raghavan tells the Army chief he will kidnap his daughter. So Major Ram must go to Darjeeling to St Paul’s college to reunite his family and save the General’s daughter too. And the saga begins I won’t reveal more. Zayed Khan is downright demented making things worse is that’s how his character is also and very school-play-like direction from Farah doesn’t help matters. But strangely as the film progresses, he actually grows on you and you start to kind of like him by the end. Bollywood’s little powerhouse Amrita Rao is as convincing as ever, and please don’t get me started on Sushmita again! Shahrukh is himself. He is funny, he is witty, he is lovable, he is emotional, he hams, he slams, and gives you full bang for your buck. Put Shahrukh in an urban, fun, light hearted, meaty role and he excels. Suneil Shetty is menacing but not menacing enough. Kabir Bedi is the perfect Army Chief, Kirron Kher is the perfect (but slightly over done) mother, and the rest of the support cast is also well good support (Boman Irani, Bindu, et al)! Anu Malik’s music actually rocks yes it does but Sonu Nigam just does not suit the heroes especially at those high notes. Any one listening? The characters have been worked on in terms of their looks Amrita’s Sanjana is grungy, Zayed’s Lucky is well I don’t know if the word is cool, but at least the look tries to be cool, Shahrukh is urban chic, Sushmita is a chiffon goddess and you can thank Karan Johar and who else Manish Malhotra! Johar has worked on Shahrukh’s look in the film, while Malhotra has dressed up Sushmita though I think Bollywood needs to see how real Army officers dress! Farah needs to be lauded and reprimanded, but overall it’s a good first effort. She even does a Hitchcock doesn’t appear on screen but her name is on the notice board at the college! The cinematography, editing are also top notch. I love the way the film ends on a Grease-like note with a song that has the cast displaying the credits with the production crew joining in. Farah has gone down the Karan Johar road but does give a little bit more. Is it a good film? No. Is it an entertainer? You bet. And time for my bottom-line should you go see it? Well…it’s likely to be the hit of the season, so the answer is a big emphatic YES!
Yuva attracts packed houses in London
Monday, May 24, 2004
PTI LONDON: Noted Indian filmmaker Mani Ratnam's latest film Yuva was released in London theatres on Friday night, attracting packed audience and rave reviews. The nearly three-hour long film has a star cast including Abhishek Bachchan, Vivek Oberoi, Ajay Devgan, Kareena Kapoor, Rani Mukherjee and Esha Deol. The combination of them plus outstanding cinematography by Ravi K Chandran and music by A R Rahman makes the action-packed film visually addictive from start to finish. British-born Indian entrepreneur Raj Kundra, the brain behind the film said: "The film has been made to cater for an international audience and is different from the usual crossover films." Yuva , meaning youth, has a storyline revolving round the chance meeting of three very different men from three different backgrounds and showcases the adverse effect it has on them. The film brings to light the different lifestyles, beliefs and actions of today's youth portrayed in a stylish and modern way. Michael Mukerjee (Ajay Devgan) is a child prodigy, invited to America to obtain his PhD under Nobel Laureate Weinberg. Michael is short-tempered genius, unable to tolerate opinions other than his own. His love interest, played by Esha Deol, is the traditional Radhika. Her beliefs in the institution of marriage conflicts with those of Michael. Vivek Oberoi (Arjun Balakrishnan) is an engineer who believes in living by the motto: minimum effort, maximum returns. His desire is to live life to its fullest by lying, breaking rules, cajoling and even by begging. Vivek's girlfriend Mira (Kareena Kapoor) whom he met in a nightclub, has plans to settle down and raise a family in Kanpur. But after her chance meeting with him, her plans go for a toss. Abhishek Bachchan plays ladies man Lallan Singh, a product of the Kolkata streets. His middle-class wife Sashi (Rani Mukherjee) knows her love is returned by her husband, but she fails to prevail on him to give up his gangster path.
SRK to take a break from films
Monday, May 24, 2004
PTI SINGAPORE: Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan is planning to take a five-month break from films to "workout" for his back and spend time with his children. "I am planning to take a five-month break from the movies, as working for two films ( Swadesh and Yash Chopra's yet to be named movie) is too hectic," he told reporters here on Saturday. Earlier, Khan said, he was only working on Swadesh and it was not "hectic". However, acting in two movies at the same time has put on a "tremendous pressure on me and (I) got little time for workout," Khan, who was undergoing treatment for his back problem, said. About his hit film Chalte Chalte , he said the movie was made for a different class and it was a success in the metros, where it was intended to be screened. Looking forward, he said, he would like to direct a movie, even though he wishes to concentrate on acting at the moment.
Priyanka Chopra signs Karan Johar film!
Monday, May 24, 2004
Priyanka Chopra is thrilled to bits. Reason? The actress, who has been signed up for the biggest of banners, has just bagged another biggie. I’ve just signed Karan’s film which Soham is directing, she informs us. I can’t tell you anything about it because it’s not even started. Soham just came to me with the script and I said yes. And this coming on right after her superhit song, ‘Boom’ (from ‘Asambhav’) - which should hopefully do for her what ‘Oye Oye’ did for Sonam and ‘Mast Mast’ did for Raveena is soaring up the charts. So Priyanka has loads to look forward to at just age 21. Now did we hear another 21 year ol’ (Kareena) say ‘big deal’?
Yuva
Monday, May 24, 2004
Three stories. One word: Awesome! To see a master at work is always a pleasure. And to see a master adapt to new age filmmaking is pleasure doubled! Everyone knows what Yuva is all about. What needs talking about is how successfully he has bridged the gap between Indian commercial cinema -- song-dance-happy endings -- and realism. A strong social message couched by high entertainment has long been the hallmark of Mani Ratnam's oeuvre. He follows through in Yuva, too. It helps that none of the characters have the 'powder' and 'gloss' of the usual commercial fare in that they are as real as you and me. Thanks largely to writer Anurag Kashyap, we also get to witness what we never thought we would -- Mani Ratnam finally let go off his 'pseudo-real' dialogues so far seen in his films. What's refreshing to see is the humour interlaced so well with simple, to-the-point dialogues. Superb camera work, replete with shaky, hand-held shots and a gritty look (Ravi K Chandran); slick, fast-paced editing (Sreekar Prasad); down-to-earth, realistic production design (Sabu Cyril); the unquestioned supremacy of A R Rahman (music); and the vision of Mani Ratnam make this movie one of the best in recent times. The story has a social/political theme but politics is kept to a minumum. The filmmaker focuses on action and drama instead. Once again a welcome change long overdue in Indian movies. The romance between Arjun (Vivek Oberoi) and Meera (Kareena Kapoor) is the freshest in recent times. It hovers between titillating and hilarious. Abhishek Bachchan as Lallan finally delivers his best performance yet. Rani Mukerji's Sasi is so convincing that it will be hard to see her in any other role after this. It is very relieving to see a Hindi movie where, for once, the characters behave like normal people and don't get melodramatic at every chance. All in all, the performances were excellent, including the supporting roles. Another aspect of Yuva is its structure. Textbook filmmaking says it is harakiri to set up characters for so long -- Ratnam is still telling the characters' back stories well past the interval. The chapter-like structure with intertwining stories is clearly inspired by Alenjandro Gonsales Inarritu's Amores Perros, but the man with this new filmmaking style, has set the bar high for Indian filammkers. Having said all that, here is a wish list for Yuva: * One really wishes casting was better, and that Yuva didn't have actors who were at least a decade older than the characters in the movie, especially Ajay Devgan's Michael Mukherjee. * The editing, though novel and edgy, could have done without falling prey to gimmickry at certain places. * Did the actors really have to lip sync to the songs? * One wishes the issues of the film -- the political crux -- wasn't rushed through and dealt with in a mere song sequence. Then again, that is asking for perfection, and Yuva is as good as it gets
Kal Ho Naa Ho sweeps IIFA 2004 awards
Monday, May 24, 2004
Nikhil Advani's Kal Ho Naa Ho swept the International Indian Film Academy Awards in Singapore, winning eight prizes including best film and best actress. Preity Zinta's role as Naina, a woman torn between the affections of happy-go-lucky Aman (Shah Rukh Khan) and best friend Rohit (Saif Ali Khan) fetched her the best actress award. She also won the Filmfare Award for the same role. Saif added another award for best supporting actor in the film, while Jaya Bachchan bagged the best supporting actress award for her role as Jennifer Kapur, Naina's troubled mother, both in Kal Ho Naa Ho. Koi... Mil Gaya fetched another best direction honour for Rakesh Roshan. In a glittering ceremony at Singapore's International stadium packed with Indians who comprise 10 percent of the city state's population, Kal Ho Naa Ho also bagged IIFA Awards for best music direction (Shankar-Ehsaan-Joy), story (producer Yash Johar's son Karan Johar), lyrics (Javed Akhtar)and male playback singer (Sonu Nigam, for the title song). Boman Irani bagged the award for best performance in a comic role for his rib-tickling dean in Munnabhai MBBS. Feroz Khan won the award for best negative role in Janasheen, the film he directed, starring son Fardeen Khan. Shreya Ghoshal won the best female playback singer (Jism). The Sony Face of the Year was bagged by Amrita Rao and Shahid Kapoor. The Samsung Style Icon Award was presented to Saif Ali Khan, while the Samsung Diva award went to Kareena Kapoor. Other awardees were Om Puri for outstanding performance by an Indian in international cinema, Dilip Kumar (outstanding contribution to Indian cinema) and Yash Johar (outstanding technical contribution to Indian cinema).
Abhishek
Monday, May 24, 2004
MUMBAI: Run is, well, a run of the mill kind of formula film and the other is Mani Ratnam's Yuva which could give him a new lease as a serious actor, but Abhishek Bachchan manages to be excited about both his releases. Admitting that he never thought Run had any novelty value, the young actor defends his choice saying it wasn't stale. It may not be a life changing film but who says the audiences don't like clichés, he asks. What makes Yuva such a special film for you? Mani Ratnam. The genius that he is, he has the knack of making everything seem just right. And when I say everything I mean everything from the dialogue to the costumes, set design, music, acting... To me everything felt right. How did Yuva come your way? I don't know. My luck I guess. I remember Shaad Ali who worked with Mani Ratnam and who was a very good friend of mine told me Mani Sir wanted to meet me. I thought he wanted to get in touch with Dad through me. I went and met him. He offered me a film. When he narrated the script I was stuck by how simply he narrated a rather complex plot. Later, I was to realise that's how he worked. After he told me the story and my character he said, 'I forgot to mention the most important thing. Would you like to work with me?' I just laughed and told him what an honour it would be to work with him. I'm thankful I got Yuva at a time when I really needed it. It boosted my confidence as an actor. I've evolved with Mani. When Maddy (Madhavan) who has worked extensively with Mani came to wish us on the first day he told me I was heading for big trouble. Why? According to Maddy, Mani spoils his actors. It's hard to come out of his spell. Now I know what Maddy meant. What I really love about Mani is that he's a very keen observer of life and people. He gives reference points for every scene. He's always watching even when the camera isn't on. That's scary. Because even when you aren't working you feel you're being watched. He'll suddenly say, 'You remember what you did last evening at dinner? I want you to do that.' An actor has to work with Mani to understand what he's all about. The confidence he's given me is immense. I've never played a character like Lallan before. He's by far the most complex character I've played. He's so hard to classify. One thing that Mani and I decided about Lallan is that he isn't ambiguous. Lallan is very clear about what he wants in life. This is the darkest character you've ever played? I don't think Lallan Singh is dark. Through the process of playing him I actually got to understand and like him. When I see the film now, I feel a strange empathy for him. That's weird, because at times he's anything but likeable. But he isn't a villain or a grey character. Your co-stars say yours is the best role and performance in Yuva . They're very kind. To be honest, all my co-stars - Ajay, Vivek, Rani - have been very supportive. My performance has little to do with my abilities. If it's effective it's because of the way Mani wrote the character. He encouraged me to play Lallan the way you see the character. And I got a lot of help from my co-stars, especially Rani who plays my wife. A character can flourish if it has the ambience and space conducive to growth. Your father could flourish in the most cramped spaces. That's why he's the chosen one. That's why he's the best. Did you have to be a serious student of cinema during the making of Yuva ? I've had the time of my life working with Mani. He has a terrific unit. I've worked with many of them in the past. All of them were very well. On top of that I had some wonderful co-stars. So the whole experience was amazing. Mani is wonderful with his actors. He talks to us, makes us feel comfortable. One can talk to him about anything. Even after pack-up he spends time with us. Since Yuva is a film about male bonding did you feel closer to the guys than the girls? Quite frankly, I didn't work much with any of the girls except Rani who's my co-star. We guys did spend a lot of time together. It was great fun. It may sound clichéd to say we were one big happy family. But that was a fact. What do you think of Madhavan playing your role in the Tamil version of Yuva ? I haven't seen much of it. But from whatever little that I have, I can see Maddy has done a fantastic job. Maddy has worked a number of times with Mani and I admit I'm jealous (laughs). I don't think there's any real competition between the two versions of the film. I'm very fond of Maddy. I want both the versions to work. I've seen how hard Mani has worked on both. Yuva has a universal theme, though for the life of me I can't classify what kind of film it is. What Mani said about Yuva makes sense -- that 'it's about three individuals and their choices in life.' Two Abhishek Bachchan starrers in two weeks! And what is wrong with that? Approximately one billion people watch Hindi films. I'm sure there're enough people to watch Run and Yuva . I've no control over my films' release. My job is to act. The rest I leave to those who know about marketing. But I must say Yuva is a very special film because of Mani Ratnam and because of Lallan Singh who is the most special character I've ever played. I'm very keen to see how audiences react to it. The fact that the "out and out entertainer" is actually doing well shows that they managed to tell a story with a new spin, says Abhishek. But Yuva is in another league completely. Abhishek is full of enthusiasm for the film where he has worked with Mani Ratnam for the first time. He calls it a very special film and his character in it Lallan Singh the most "special character I have ever played". In this interview, Abhishek talks at length about his films and the sheer delight of working with "genius" Mani Ratnam and his crew. What do you feel about the response to Run ? Ecstatic! I'm in Goa shooting for Dhoom . But I've been in constant touch with my Run producer Boney Kapoor and the distributors. They all seem to be happy with the way the film has performed. No one is complaining. There's even talk of some profit being made. What more can I ask for? Run looked like a run-of-the-mill film from the start. Yes it did. It may be run-of-the-mill. But it wasn't stale. I always maintained it didn't have novelty value. It's not a life-changing film like The Passion Of The Christ . Run was an out-and-out entertainer. And who says audiences don't like the clichés? I have chicken curry and rice everyday and I still don't get tired of it. The audiences have no problem with formula cinema as long as the story is told with verve. I consider my grandmother and mother the greatest storytellers on earth. When I was a child they'd tell my sister and I the same story every night at bedtime. Every night I was intrigued anew. I'd like to think we've succeeded in telling a familiar story with a new spin in Run .
Jassi wins Rapa award
Monday, May 24, 2004
PTI MUMBAI: Over 45 awards in various categories, including best script, best TV and radio spot, best talk show, comedy and sop opera were given out at the 29th Radio and Television Advertising Practitioners Association (Rapa) in a award function here on Saturday. The popular serial Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin bagged the award in the best soap opera (Hindi) category, while Kanaka , won the award in the category of Kannada soap opera. Faces and Names , a talk show in English bagged an award, while ZEE telefilms Jeena Isi Ka Naam , hosted by cine star Farooque Shaikh also won an award at a function. The best radio spot went to Dhananjay Kale for SBI mutual fund in the non-film Hindi category, while Enil, Radio Mirchi Chennai won the prize for the best radio spot in Malyalam. Punch creations walked away with the prize for the best radio spot in Marathi. Sri Adhikari Brothers Ltd bagged many prizes at the function including, best comedy (Hindi), best talk show (English). The other prominent winners were WIN 94.6 for best radio jockey in Hindi (Mallishka Mendonca) and for Marathi (Anjali Kulkarni). Voice wizrad Chetan won awards for the close-up jingle and the best TV jingle. The show was interspersed with a performance by Baba Sehgal and singer Jo Jo.
Vajpayee: the lonely man in a crowd
Monday, May 24, 2004
Outgoing PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee looks on during the swearing in ceremony for the new PM Manmohan Singh in New Delhi on Saturday. (AP photo) NEW DELHI: The moment he walked into the ornate Ashoka Hall, his successor rushed to welcome him. They, along with Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, stood together before the flashing cameras. Manmohan Singh's gesture to Atal Bihari Vajpayee was infectious. Former PM Chandra Shekhar came forward to hold his hands. Others jostled to do namaste and greet him. Looking relaxed but tired in a black jacket over his immaculate white dhoti kurta, Vajpayee seemed to be a lonely man in the buoyant crowd on Saturday evening at Rashtrapati Bhavan. After taking oaths, many ministers turned to him in a gesture of courtesy before turning to Congress President Sonia Gandhi and others. Such things should have revved him up. But Vajpayee was clearly not in his element, a man aloof to things happening around him. Asked if he would be the leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, he made it clear he was not willing. A man who had always loved such an occasion, a time for chit-chats with reporters, seemed ill at ease in the familiar milieu. "I give my best wishes to the new government," he told TNN . A man who had enjoyed a good laugh, relished his own wit and repartee, seemed to be in a different mood. He left much before the party was over.
Mrs PM's dinner dilemma
Monday, May 24, 2004
NEW DELHI: As her husband, India's new Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, was being mobbed and congratulated after the oath-taking ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Gursharan Kaur had a mundane problem - what would she cook for dinner on Saturday. "I don't know what I am going to cook," Kaur told as she nursed a cup of tea quietly with a friend in a corner of the Ashoka Hall. The hall, where President APJ Abdul Kalam hosted high tea for Singh and members of his council of ministers after they were sworn in, was crowded with new ministers, their relatives, former ministers, senior officials and other dignitaries "Do you have a pen? Then I won't talk to you," Kaur teased when asked if she was planning a grand dinner to celebrate her husband becoming prime minister. "The moment I say anything you people take out your pens and notebooks and start writing," the simple housewife who has been catapulted to media glare after her husband's appointment as prime minister. Kaur, who had endeared herself to housewives by expressing the hope publicly that her eminent economist husband would not hike the price of cooking gas, said three of their daughters, two sons in-law, one of Singh's brother and three brothers in-aw attended the swearing in ceremony.
25 BSF personnel killed in IED blast
Sunday, May 23, 2004
Twenty-five BSF personnel were killed and 10 seriously injured when militants triggered an IED explosion aimed at a bus carrying security personnel on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. The highway has been closed for a few hours following the blast. The attack took place around 10 am (IST) at Lohar Munda, about 100 km from Srinagar, when a convoy of BSF vehicles was on its way to Jammu. Injured airlifted The injured personnel have been airlifted by helicopters to the Army Base Hospital in Srinagar, said Deputy Inspector General of BSF K Srinivasan. The DIG said the casualty was high because the bus caught fire immediately after the explosion giving little time to the personnel to escape. Thirty-five BSF personnel were travelling in the bus. Hizbul claims responsibility Meanwhile, a person identifying himself as spokesman of pro-Pakistan Hizbul Mujahideen claimed the outfit carried out the attack. (Agency)
Indian cabinet Ministers List
Sunday, May 23, 2004
India's new cabinet headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will hold its first meeting Sunday, less than a day after it was sworn in by President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. "The cabinet will meet at the Prime Minister's Office at 4 p.m.," sources said. The meeting will take place after portfolios of the 68 members of the council of ministers are announced, the official noted. List of newly inducted ministers The following is the list of members of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's council of ministers who were sworn in Saturday. Cabinet Ministers: 1. Pranab Mukherjee 2. Arjun Singh 3. Sharad Pawar 4. Laloo Prasad Yadav 5. Shivraj Patil 6. Ram Vilas Paswan 7. Ghulam Nabi Azad 8. S. Jaipal Reddy 9. Sish Ram Ola 10. P. Chidambaram 11. Mahavir Prasad 12. P.R. Kyndiah 13. T.R. Baalu 14. Shankarsinh Vaghela 15. K. Natwar Singh 16. Kamal Nath 17. Hans Raj Bhardwaj 18. P.M. Sayeed 19. Raghuvansh Prasad Singh 20. Priyaranjan Das Munshi 21. Mani Shankar Aiyar 22. Sunil Dutt 23. Meira Kumar 24. K. Chandrasekhar Rao 25. Shibu Soren 26. A. Raja 27. Dayanidhi Maran 28. Anbumani Ramdoss Ministers of State (independent charge): 29. Santosh Mohan Dev 30. Jagdish Tytler 31. Oscar Fernandes 32. Renuka Chowdhary 33. Subodh Kant Sahay 34. Kapil Sibal 35. Vilas Muttemwar 36. Kumari Selja 37. Praful Patel 38. Prem Chand Gupta Ministers of State 39. E. Ahmed 40. Suresh Pachauri 41. B.K. Handique 42. P. Lakshmi 43. Dasari Narayan Rao 44. Shaqeel Ahmed 45. Rao Inderjit Singh 46. Naranbhai Rathwa 47. Rehman Khan 48. K.H. Muniappa 49. M.V. Rajasekharanv 50. Kantilal Bhuria 51. Manik Rao Gavit 52. Sri Prakash Jaiswal 53. Prithviraj Chauhan 54. Taslimuddin 55. Suryakanta Patil 56. Mohammed Ali Ashraf Fatmi 57. A. Narendra 58. R. Velu 59. S.S. Palanimanickam 60. S. Raghupathy 61. K. Venkatapathy 62. Subbulakshmi Jagadessan 63. E.V.K.S. Elangovanv 64. Kanti Singh 65. Namo Narayan Meena 66. Jay Prakash Narayan Yadav 67. Akhilesh Singh []
Nation is bigger than leaders: Kalam
Sunday, May 23, 2004
President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Saturday said India would achieve progress if its leadership always remembered the nation is bigger than the leaders. Kalam made the remark when he chatted briefly with reporters while hosting high tea for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and members of his council of ministers after they were sworn in at a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He was asked how he felt about an eminent economist like Manmohan Singh assuming the office of prime minister and an eminent scientist like him being president. "I get a feeling that in this great country of more than a billion people, the leadership should constantly show an ability to remember that the nation is bigger than leaders. Then the nation will progress," he remarked.
Musharraf, Jamali greet Manmohan Singh
Sunday, May 23, 2004
Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Zafarulah Khan Jamali on Saturday warmly greeted Manmohan Singh on taking over as the Prime Minister of India and welcomed his comments expressing desire to improve ties between the two countries. In his letter to Singh sent immediately after Singh's swearing in, Musharraf said, "We in Pakistan welcome your government's resolve to improve relations between our two countries. I wish to assure you of our sincere commitment to find a just and peaceful solution of all outstanding issues including Jammu and Kashmir." "We also look forward to further strengthening regional cooperation under the aegis of SAARC," he added. In his letter Jamali said, "We are confident that under your leadership, Pakistan and India relations will continue to develop and the process of Composite Talks for the resolution of all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir will be productive." He also said Pakistan would like to closely work with new Indian government to strengthen the regional cooperation under aegis of SAARC. "We would also like to work closely with your government to strengthen regional cooperation, under the auspices of SAARC," he said. (Agency)
Manmohan Singh led UPA govt sworn-in
Sunday, May 23, 2004
Congress leader and eminent economist Dr Manmohan Singh was sworn-in this evening as Prime Minister of India, heading the first ever Congress-led coalition government at the Centre . The President A P J Abdul Kalam administered the oath of office and secrecy to 71-year old Singh at a function in Ashoka Hall of Rashtrapati Bhawan, bringing Congress back to power after a gap of nine years. Singh is the 14th Prime Minister of India. He is also the first Sikh Prime Minister to lead the country. The ministers, who were sworn in today include, Pranab Mukherjee, Arjun Singh, P Chidambaram, Sharad Pawar , Laloo Prasad Yadav, Natwar Singh and Ghulam Nabi Azad. While Singh is expected to retain the Finance portfolio, Mukherjee is likely to get Home and Natwar Singh External Affairs. The Left parties, SP and BSP are extending outside support to the United Progressive Alliance government. Singh had a marathon six-hour meeting with Congress President Sonia Gandhi which continued till early this morning to finalise the Council of Ministers. Out of the 68 Ministers, the Congress accounts for 43 (which includes Mr Chidambaram), followed by RJD (eight), DMK (six), NCP (three) and PMK (two). All other parties representing the coalition - Lok Jansakthi, IUML, TRS and JMM - have just one representative each.
Vajpayee, Advani silent
Friday, May 21, 2004
As Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and his deputy L.K. Advani maintained silence on the election of Manmohan Singh as India's next prime minister, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Wednesday said it was keeping a "close watch" on the developments. BJP spokesman Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told reporters his party would keep a close watch on the Congress-led coalition, but reserved his comments on Singh's candidature. He said the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would play the role of a constructive opposition in parliament. Leaders of the BJP and NDA, who had declared they would boy |
