RANI AND HARMAN IN TORONTO

Forgotten actors Rani Mukherjee and Harman Baweja have a reason to rejoice; their forthcoming films will be screened at the prominent Toronto festival.

Dil Bole Hadippa and What’s your Rashee will be screened at the festival along with other overseas films. Both Rani and Harman are banking on these films for their fate in Bollywood will be sealed after their release. In view of Rani has been out of the scene since a while now and Harman’s bad luck is making the most of him, the added notice the film’s get is only better.

What’s your Rashee stars Harman Baweja and his more victorious ex-girlfriend Priyanka Chopra. While Piggy Chops has nothing to worry about, Harman’s last two films Love Story 2050 and Victory sank without a trace. The same could go for Rani, Laaga Chunari mein Daag and Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic were awful at boxoffice duds and she’s going all the way for Dil Bole Hadippa. Right from havans and pooja’s, she’s doing the very best to ward off the evil from her filmi career.

Rani plays a woman impersonating a man in the Shahid starrer Dil Bole Hadippa and the film has been touted as a direct lift off Amanda Bynes’s She’s the Man. Whereas What’s your Rashee, is Ashutosh Gowarikar’s effort in making something less patriotic and periodic.

Whether or not the two films will make news at the festival, we don’t know but let’s just hope the Raashee of both these films fare better than the actor’s career’s themselves!

SAIF PROVIDE PERSONAL NAWABI TOUCH TO LAK

Imtiaz Ali, Deepika Padukone, producers Saif Ali Khan and Dinesh Vijan individually greeted members of the press at the screening of Love Aaj Kal, held at PVR Cinemas at Phoenix Mills, Lower Parel yesterday.

Saif walked in at around 12.30, encircled by security. Dressed in casuals, he looked cool and handsome. All eyes were on him. Imtiaz Ali was already present, talking to the media. A few cameramen were present. Some time after Saif’s arrival, Deepika also arrived. She looked very pretty and completely fine in her short dress which she paired with gladiator flats. All three of them interacted with media persons, particularly the senior ones.

Saif said, “It has been 18 years since I have been in the industry. Some of you have known since my first day here. I was a silly 20 year old and even you’ll were young journalists then. Now, you all have become feared heads of your departments now. We want to thank you for coming here. We present to you Love Aaj Kal. We hope you like it. I won’t be lurking around after the show like many people do, asking you what you thought of the film. I would rather read it all while I am chilling and relaxing in Delhi.”

Very Nawabi of you Saif, we say. Your first production is set to be a super-hit and we are sure you are very happy with all the good things people have to say aboutLove Aaj Kal.

ASH RUNNING LATE FOR BHANSALI’S FLICK

Even if Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Guzaarish goes on the floors today, Aishwarya will report on the sets only from tomorrow.

The mishap on the sets of Mani Ratnams Raavana near Cochin is the cause for Aishwaryas delayed schedule.

A source said, The mahout was killed by his elephant and it led to total chaos. The mishap occurred just after the shoot was wrapped up and it even banned Ash and Abhishek from reaching the hotel. As a result, there is a shift of location and the left over shots with Aishwarya will be canned in Ooty. Her earlier schedule had allowed her a day free between the shoots of Raavana and Guzaarish, but not any more.

Confirming the news, a source close to the actress said, Aishwarya was to finish her shoot of Raavana today but due to the unlucky elephant incident last evening, they had to request Sanjay Leela Bhansali for another day to complete her work. The unit of Raavana has shifted to Ooty for the rest of the schedule, which was at first meant to be shot in Kerala. Once she gets back, she will go directly to Sanjay Leela Bhansalis sets.

Aishwarya is very upset about the accident. The source added, She is worried about the mahouts family and prays that they get through this moment of pain and loss.

NOW HILLARY DESIRES TO SEE AAMIR'S FILMS

That Aamir Khan and Hillary Clinton shared a stage during her recent visit is a well-known fact.

What very few public know is the fact that the US Secretary of State had also done her homework in detail on Aamir’s filmography.

During one of their conversations the former First Lady of the US not only spoke to Aamir at length about Taare Zameen Par, she also uttered a desire to see the film. Aamir promised to get her a sub-titled version of the special DVD with all the right bonus stuff that deals with parents of dyslexic children in a panel debate with the actor; plus other related information that helped make TZP an eye-opener.

Madam Clinton also hoped to see Aamir’s Lagaan, one hears. Even as we write this piece, a special courier could well be on its way to Washington DC with films made by Aamir.

ALL’S FINE BY GOD’S GRACE: AISHWARYA

It’s general facts that Bollywood’s most romantic couple, Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai, pine to spend worth time together.

But the way they were cut off together on Wednesday in the jungles of Athirapilly in Kerala was anything but romantic.

The day started usually and ended up as one of the most disastrous in the couple’s life. Says a source, “Abhi and Ash left with Mani Ratnam in the morning to check out an elephant which was believed to participate in the shooting. Little did they know what was in store.” During the monsoon season, elephants are given a month off by their owners to relax and go for an Ayurveda healing, but for the greedy owners, film shooting means Rs 5,000 per animal.

The elephant went out of control, killing the mahout. It went amok, forcing Abhishek, his wife and the director to hide until people who could rescue the trio could reach. Says the source, “For ten hours, Abhishek, Aishwarya and Mani went without food or water. They just hide from the elephant. Finally, they were rescued late at night. But until then, there was no news of their safety. Abhishek and Aishwarya’s parents were hectic with worry.”

When contacted, a stunned Aishwarya Rai simply said, “All is well, by God’s grace.”

FORECAST: HOW FLUKY IS LOVE AAJ KAL

If there is a film which can simply take over the crown of being the most probable release of July (or even this year), then it has to be Love Aaj Kal.

Celebrity astro numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi reveals the fate of this much expected film.

“The title Love Aaj Kaladds up to Number 30 which simply put is neither favorable nor unpromising. It’s just about average. I had advised the film’s director Imtiaz Ali to spell the film title as LUV AAJ KAL for better prospects but it was too late by then as the publicity of the film was just about to start by that time,” informs Bhavikk.

“The film producer’s Saif Ali Khan (August 16, 1970) is Number 7 person in numerology and the year 2009 adds up to Number 2. Numbers 2 and 7 always go hand in hand. This year in general is good for people born on dates 1, 2, 4 or 7. Saif is a Leo ruled by Number 1 (Sun) and will soon be entering his 40th year, so time is in his favor and his first production will definitely be a hit,” predicts the expert.

He continues “As for the leading lady Deepika Padukone (5th January 1986), she is in her 24th year which is one of her best numbers and so the lady will also bring luck to the film. The Kareena V/s Deepika war is just being blown out of part as even with Kareena’s occurrence in the film, it would have achieved the same success. Nothing more, nothing less! ”

“However, during the period of 21st July and 22nd August, Sun is placed in its own sign Leo which is ruled by Number 1. It does not gel well with Number 3, which the film title adds up to. So, in that respect the film will primarily do well in metros and big cities mainly while the business in smaller centers might get precious. All said and done, LOVE AAJ KAL will absolutely bring some relief to the hit starved industry, positively!” concludes Bhavikk.

NEHA DHUPIA IN A HOLLYWOOD SHOW

Bollywood babe Neha Dhupia is starring in an American TV series titled Bollywood Hero, which is a three part humor mini series.

The film stars Hollywood actor Chris Kattan. And the tagline for the film reads, ‘Chris Kattan goes to India to develop into a Bollywood star’.

Neha plays the role of a Bollywood actress Alima Lakhani opposite American actor comedian Chris Kattan who is well-liked for Saturday Night Live.

Neha said about her sequential launch, ‘It revolves around the main character Chris Kattan who wants to become a Bollywood hero and I play a Bollywood actress, opposite him.’

She has been trying for a while to get into television, she spoke to local media stating the same but first in America, then here, ‘Well only because TV is treated as big as a movie there and after I saw how TV is in India and abroad, I realized there is vast dissimilarity between the two. It's going to be treated as big as a movie.’

She auditioned thrice for the role, and when she lastly bagged the deal, she went about town announcing how she had landed a biggie project.

Tut, tut, take a look at the trailer, it’s funny no doubt but keeps your eyes glued for her, she’s blinking and we miss!

Her friend Tabrez Noorani, who was a line producer on Slumdog Millionaire seems to have helped her get the role, which she denies firmly, saying, ‘I was a part of the project even before Slumdog became a hit.’

True, and who is Chris Kattan anyway? In fact, he should be thanking her instead for launching his career in Bollywood and telly all at once.

RITEISH TWEETS ON TWITTER

Riteish Deshmukh is the newest B-Town actor to get on to Twitter. His status message on Facebook was: At last on Twitter ....... tried for my name and various mixture but weren't accessible. So lastly got the one I was given in Bluffmaster! riteishd.

AKSHAY HAS A DATE WITH A DOLL

There’s something quite mysterious about the number 9, say astrologers and numerologists across the world.

Golden Globe Award winning director-producer Tim Burton of Batman Returns and Mars Attacks fame and Timur Bekmambetov (known for Wanted, Escape from Afghanistan), agree. So, to discover the mystery further, the duo got their energetic efforts together to launch a film called 9 and plan to release it on 09-09-09.

And, since Bollywood action superstar Akshay Kumar’s birthday falls on September 9, the film’s distributor has asked him to launch an online game based on 9.

The film is a computer-animated, dark and strange nightmare in which humanity is susceptible when awesome machines start to attack civilisation. A team of nine rag dolls, led by Doll No 9, which is mentally agile and aware, saves the future from disaster.

IMRAN-RANBIR DOSTI MAKE OTHERS JEALOUS

This new dosti has turn into the jealousy of other ‘supposed’ dostis in B-town.

We’re perceptibly talking about two of our hottest boys, Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan. Damn the rat-race, rivalry and fan clubs...these Gen-X actors don’t wanna waste time with stuff like that.

They are like boys should be cool, fun and chilled out. Lately when Imran had a particular screening for Luck, RK was his special guest. And he came along sportingly to cheer his buddy. We heard that the boys often party mutually and have a lot in general other than movies.

Hmm... We speculate how their gals (Ms Dee and Avantika) feel about this dostana? We’d say, hold on to your men tight, gals!

WISHING SANJAY DUTT A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Even while his native is a village near district Yamuna Nagar in Haryana, this kid was born and brought up in the glamour-oozing city of Mumbai. He is one of those very few 'star-sons' who just did not want to take things on a golden plate, as an alternative, choose to earn their star-status. We are indeed talking about today's Birthday boy Sanjay Dutt, the modest son of the most memorable parents: the late Sunil Dutt and Nargis Dutt.

Sanjay's debut film Rocky still remains as one of the most unforgettable films in Bollywood. What followed after that, were an array of films that not just consolidated his position in Bollywood, but also catapulted him into the top league in no time. Even though bad times befell on Sanjay's life in the form of drug abuse and control of illegal arms, Sanjay stood terra firma against all this and came out clean to accept his mistake, an action that only a true son of the soil can do! It was this getting of guilt that distorted the man called Sanjay Dutt into a household name called 'Sanju baba', which later on took the form of the most jovial 'Munnabhai', an memorable character that the Indian cinema has ever produced!

In the recent times, besides the smash hit Munnabhai series, Sanju also gave some of his unforgettable performances in films like Daag The Fire, Haseena Maan Jaayegi, and Vaastav, which even earned him the Best Actor in a Leading Role award at the prestigious Filmfare Awards.

VIDYA TO WORK IN A YASH RAJ FILM, LASTLY

It’s been third time lucky for them

Vidya Balan had discarded an offer from Yash Raj Films on two occurrence in the past, for some reason or the other. But it’s been third time lucky for them, with Vidya accepting their latest offer.

After “Parineeta”, Vidya was on a high. At that time YRF approached her for “Jhoom Barabar Jhoom”, but she turned down the role, which ultimately went to Lara Dutta.

YRF again approached her for “Laaga Chunri Mein Daag”, but Vidya wasn’t interested in picking up the offer too.

This did not go down well with production house and decided to never cast Vidya again in their movies.

But a long time gap has in fact mended the differences and made YRF change its decision.

Now, Vidya has again been asked to be part of a Yash Raj film and this time she has acknowledged. In fact, she received a call not from Adi Chopra but from Yash Chopra himself.

The two are, however, tight-lipped about the venture.

‘I’VE NOT LEFT ANY STONE UNTURNED’

Saif Ali Khan talks ‘Love Aaj Kal’ and tells what the film means to him

Saif Ali Khan is busy ‘aaj kal’ promoting his debut project as a producer, ‘Love Aaj Kal’, in which he also plays the lead role next to the ravishing Deepika Padukone. The film, directed by Imtiaz Ali, is a love story, a genre Imtiaz excels in.

‘Love Aaj Kal’ holds a lot of significance for Saif for more reasons than one. Apart from it being his first production, the film also comes after his two big flops in a row – ‘Tashan’ and ‘Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic’ hence the need to get this one right.

Here’s what Saif has to say about the film and his choices:

On turning a producer

Making in fact is not my cup of tea. But after attaining so many years of experience in this field, I’d like to have a creative position of my own. You feel proud to have it finally. Since a lot of money is involved in filmmaking your inputs mean something else. I want to learn more about the business. The market previous was different. Most heroes have moved on and turned directors or producers now. Also, there are not many independent producers left to work with.

On the making of ‘Love Aaj Kal’

Right now I’m anxious since I’m a fresher in production. I’m only learning the ifs and buts. Being the producer I need to look into every aspect of filmmaking, though I’ve not left any stone unturned from my end. We have had a great team, and I have learnt a lot in the process. My partner Dinesh Vijan has been a great help. I was more involved in the creative aspect of the film. All in all, the entire journey has not only been a learning knowledge but has been equally exciting too.

On picking a leaf or two from friends

I have been lucky to work with many great producers and big, recognized banners - Yash Raj Films and Dharma Productions majorly. I’ve learnt a lot of lessons in filmmaking from them. Karan Johar and Farhan Akhtar would have always been there to advise me, but I haven’t really called anyone.

On the film

The story mostly is about Jai who doesn’t believe in love and is practical. He believes that long distance link is a pain, so why not just be friends and not follow your heart. He comes across a person who tells him what love is all about. Imtiaz has made a simple love story which is not puzzling at all as most people believe.

On playing a Sardar

I had meetings with top leaders of the Akali Dal for the look and they have esteemed me. I met them before I ventured into production as I did not want to miff them on anything. I have tried to shoulder all my errands towards the religion. Dolly aunty has done my clothes and I have tried to give it an honest loom. I had to work on the accent. If I could pull off Langda Tyagi in ‘Omkara’, I think I have managed this one too.

On Imtiaz Ali as the director of his maiden venture

Very simple. He had an incredible script and when you hear a good script and also when the director has the know-how of putting it down on screen just the same, that’s all what you need. The clever thing an actor does is not acting but the ‘listening’ he does in the drawing room as to what the director actually wants. This film is a result of being all ears to Imtiaz.

On Kareena being his first choice for the film

(Laughs) None of the directors listen to me. Imitaz too felt that Deepika suited the role better and hence left me unhappy. Are you happy with the answer now?

On working with Deepika for the first time

Ours is an enthusiastic pair, isn’t it? We look nice and refreshing. Apart from being a new face, Deepika has all the attributes of an Indian beauty. Also, she is very professional and down-to-earth. Rani Mukerji and Deepika’s persona grounds me in real and on reel as well.

On the surprise package of the film – Harleen

The other heroine is going to be a surprise. Her name is Harleen. She’s not here at the moment since we wanted to keep the main focus on Deepika and myself right now.

On the title of the film

The title suits the story of the film which is about the love stories of people today and in yesteryears.

On Kareena's judgment on the film

She has seen the film and has liked it.

WILL RAKHI SAWANT GET MARRIED ON AUGUST 2

There are contradictory reports.

Although rumours that NDTV Imagine channel’s reality show “Rakhi Ka Swayamvar” is rigged, Rakhi has allegedly said that she really is getting married on August 2 to one of the three final contestants.

Rakhi in fact has by now made up her mind about which of the three she will marry.

According to sources from the channel, she is most probable to tie the knot with Canada-based businessman Elesh Parujanwala. She has even confessed the same to some of her friends.

Her bridal outfit is designed by Neeta Lulla and her jewellery by Farah Khan Ali.

Rakhi has said that it is for real that she is getting married. She also said that she will never fake an institute like marriage as she has seen her own parents’ marriage break.

Speaking about her family’s attendance at the wedding, she said that she will be the only one from her side. She said that she has busted all ties with her mother and she is now her past.

After marrige Rakhi and Elesh plan to get back to their own work in their particular cities, Mumbai and Toronto. Though Rakhi is said to have got her Canadian visa and will be travelling to Toronto to meet his parents after her August 2 wedding. Elesh also supposedly wants to buy property in Mumbai to set up a second home there.

However, there could also be a twist in the story, as has been reported in some sections of the media.

According to these reports, Rakhi will not marry anyone as she’s having worries about choosing her groom and is looking for an exit from the show without a husband. To make that possible, the producers are said to have given a twist to the show. The three finalists will be asked to choose between Rakhi and money, and apparently they will choose cash and leave the show.

Truth, yet, will only surface on August 2. For the moment, Rakhi is preparing for the Mehndi and Sangeet ceremonies.

MALLIKA DECLINES TO GO NUDE FOR ‘HISSS’

She has limits about exposing.

Mallika Sherawat might be known for her bold style declaration and her bold dressing sense. But when it came to stripping for her forthcoming movie “Hisss”, she utterly refused to go nude.

In one of the scenes, Mallika had to convert into a snake and that requisite her to slither and wriggle in the mud. While doing so, some certain parts of her body, including her bottom, had to be exposed.

Mallika did not want to show her bottom and hence she asked for a body twofold to do the scene.

Director Jennifer Lynch had to give in to Mallika’s request and agree on a body double.

“Hisss” is a story of a Naagin, played by Mallika, who sets out to find a mate with a vengeance.

CHEMISTRY: SHAHID & PRIYANKA

Cine Blitz has managed to shatter up Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra for their August edition. They look marvelous collectively, but there's no chemistry.

When the relationship is over, or on the edge of ending, even the pictures begin to tell the story.

KAREENA KAPOOR: NO WEDDING PLANS FOR 2 YEARS

Kareena Kapoor has been chosen the brand ambassador of Gitanjali’s bridal wear brands Parineeta, Sagaee and ME Solitaire. She talks about marriage and what diamonds mean to her.

As predictable Kareena sparkled like a diamond in a white and pink saree. That she looked totally stunning is an understatement.

“Diamonds are a woman’s best friend. Jewellery makes a woman even more beautiful. I am very choosy about the brands I endorse and Gitanjali is all about quality over quantity,” asserted the beauty.

“I like my diamonds to be solitaires. I utterly adore them. I would like a diamond of 2 or 3 carats in a beautiful, lovely setting in yellow gold,” she said.

In the Gitanjali ads, she plays a dual role and looks gorgeous in both. “In one ad I am a young Indian ethnic bride and in the other I am a glamourous girl. My fans get to see me in two very different avatars.”

And has Saif seen the ads yet? “He hasn’t seen the ad yet as he has been very busy with Love Aaj Kal,” was her quick reply.

Bebo has played a bride some times in her filmy career. So what about real life? “When Karisma was getting married, we were in a room where she was getting ready in front of the mirror. She told me that she felt she was going for a shot. She said she has taken the saat phere with so many heroes and in so many films, that it all felt like a movie. That is what she felt. As far as I am anxious, I don’t know how I will feel on that day. I will only think and know about it on that day. I am not thinking about it right now. I haven’t made any marriage plans yet. I don’t aim to marry for the next two years,” she explained, adding, “Marriages are made in heaven. The Destiny that God has given us will happen as He has intended it to happen.”

Katrina is endorsing Nakshatra and Bipasha also endorses Gitanjali. So does Kareena feel any competition? “I don’t feel any contest as far as endorsements are concerned. I think the more the merrier,” said the confident Diva.

“I am designing a jewellery line for them that will have shades of my personality. The kind of jewellery that I like is elegant and classic. I love earrings, neckpieces and rings in diamonds especially solitaires, emeralds and rubies. My sister and mother keep gifting them to me. My family pampers me a lot. My birthday is also coming and I am expecting huge surprises,” concludes the Kapoor heiress.

AKSHAY HAS NO PLANS TO MOVE TO HOLLYWOOD

I'm happy doing my work here, he says

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, who lately shared screen space with international stars Sylvester Stallone, Denise Richards and Brandon Routh in "Kambakkht Ishq", says he has no plans of heading to Hollywood.

"Why go to Hollywood when Hollywood is coming to Bollywood? I'm happy doing my work here as of now," Akshay told IANS.

Now that "Kambakkht Ishq" has registered good profits at the box office, Akshay is looking forward to his other films that comprise "Blue", "De Dana Dan" and "Action Replay".

I WANT 'LOVE AAJ KAL' TO SHATTER ALL RECORDS

Saif’s film is very close to Kareena’s heart

Her recent release "Kambakkht Ishq" has seen the best opening of 2009 so far. But Kareena Kapoor wants boyfriend Saif Ali Khan's "Love Aaj Kal" to even exceed her film's record and enjoy exceptional success at the box office.

"I really want 'Love Aaj Kal' to break all box-office records. Yes, 'Kambakkht Ishq' is my film but then so is 'Love Aaj Kal'. For both Saif and me 'Love Aaj Kal' is a not just a prominent project but also something which is very close to our hearts", Kareena told IANS.

Releasing on July 31, "Love Aaj Kal" is Saif's first production venture. Tell her that prospect are huge from the movie as well as Saif and she nods in agreement.

"Yes, I'm aware about the huge potential and I also know that 'Love Aaj Kal' has turned out to be a lovely film. The good part is that the film has generated all around optimistic vibes and everyone expects good things from the film," she said.

With Saif playing two characters - Jai Vardhan Singh and Veer Singh (the younger version of Rishi Kapoor) - "Love Aaj Kal" touches upon the universal spirit of love.

According to director Imtiaz Ali, "the process of link might be different in different eras, but the experience of being in love remains the same".

Another issue that makes "Love Aaj Kal" a special film for Kareena is the fact that it has Imtiaz at the driving seat.

"I have worked with Imtiaz in 'Jab We Met' and ever since then we all expect so much from him. He has great sensibilities of a narrator and can't set a foot wrong. I really hope and pray that 'Love Aaj Kal' manages to strike a chord with spectators in the same way as 'Jab We Met'," she said.

Remembering her stint in "Jab We Met", Kareena agrees that it was an unusual experience.

"To play a character like 'Geet' (her screen name in 'Jab We Met') doesn't happen all the time; it just happens. When you begin working on a film, you of course know about the story and your character. However, no one knows how audiences would ultimately react to it. 'Geet' did strike a chord with the audiences and became a household name," she said.

One expects something similar from "Love Aaj Kal" as well that also stars Deepika Padukone. Apart from them, Rishi Kapoor and Rahul Khanna will also be seen in pivotal roles with Neetu Singh in a guest appearance.

AKSHAY TAKES GOOD CARE OF DEEPIKA

Akshay Kumar's brave nature was discovered in London when his "Housefull" co-star Deepika Paudkone was laid up with an attack of malaria.

He not only made sure Deepika was looked after, but also influenced her to stay away from shooting.

While Deepika was resting, substitute scenes that didn't require her were shot.

"I'm recovering. I was confined to bed for three days. And yes, I did return to the set on Saturday. I had to shoot. But I'm not sure whether it was the wisest of decisions, considering it was malaria," Deepika told IANS from London.

Akshay and Deepika earlier teamed up for "Chandni Chowk To China", which turned out to be a box office dud. But the film's letdown hasn't pretentious their friendship.

"I'm lucky to be encircled by courageous men. Whether it's my dad, Ranbir (Kapoor), Akshay, Shah Rukh Khan or any of my co-stars, I haven't so far encountered any ill-behaved men," said Deepika whose next release is "Love Aaj Kal".

Directed by Imtiaz Ali, "Love Aaj Kal" hits the screens Friday. And Saif Ali Khan, who plays Deepika's suspicious love interest in the romantic saga, also gets high marks from Deepika, though she admits they aren't close friends.

In the movie, Saif plays a guy who doesn't believe in romantic love whereas Deepika is a die-hard romantic both in the film and in real life.

"He (Saif) also believes in love and realises it when he can't do without the girl. So I guess there's a romantic in all of us. It just needs to be tapped. But you need to experience that journey from distrust to love, like I have in real life.

"So many times I advice people on their love life. I can always tell the difference between those who understand and don't understand the value of true love," she said.

WHO WILL WIN KATRINA OR SHILPA????

Shilpa Shetty may be experimenting in several things, but movies are her first love, and that’s the reason she decisive to produce films.

Shilpa’s super agitated about her new role, and says, “I’ll be the first actress to turn producer. This way I get to make movies that I believe in.

I had to put my plans on hold because of decline, but I am sure things will be back on track soon.” Well, we hear, Katrina Kaif has bought the rights for a French film lately.

She, too, plans to turn producer. So, will the hotties fight to be the first actress-producers on the Bollywood block? Let’s wait and watch.

SALMAN LEAVES FARAH RED FACED

Choreographer-turned-director Farah Khan says that Bollywood star Salman Khan had left her red-faced when he took her beside for the auditions of his super hit 1989 film "Maine Pyar Kiya".

Farah recalled the occasion when she came on the reality show "Dus Ka Dum 2", which is being hosted by Salman.

"He (Salman) took me along so that I could show him a few steps to do before director Sooraj Barjatya. But when Salman did the steps, it was so awful that I just picked up by footwear, hailed a cab and took off home," said Farah on the show.

Salman, who started retiring after his secret was exposed, agreed that he did have two left feet then and later even confirmed the step he was vital to perform at the auditions, said a source from the sets of the show.

SALMAN’S MOTHER LEAKS THE BEANS

Salma Khan, had son Salman squirming in his seat when she exposed his deep dark secrets on Farah Khan’s chat show.

Her very first interview, Salma was on Farah Khan’s chat show Tere Mere Beech Mein discussing the topic of ‘Mama’s boys’. Apt for Salman as he still lives next to his mother and swears by her cooking. The alpha male actor was left discomfited when his mother went on an exposure spree talking about his love, life and moody behaviour.

Many soon realized that Salma had just taken over Salman’s star occurrence on the telly. Sources on the set went on to reveal to StarBoxOffice saying, “Salman was left red faced by the end of it all, he must have had no idea that his mum would end up spilling all the beans about how he is in real life. The way Salma was speaking to Farah it seemed like she was sitting at home and chatting to a friend, it was a great understanding, not only was it amusing it was so personal at the same time.”

At the same time, father Salim had also recorded a byte which spoke of Sallu’s relationships. He went on to say that that Salman always falls in love with actresses but then wants them to give up all and stay at home much like the most special woman in his life, his mother, who has spoilt him silly.

Farah Khan too admitted to the press that it was one of the sweetest and nicest episodes she had ever seen, much be a part of till date. And we have to say by the sound of it we just can’t wait to see Salman rosy on the small screen, it could be the very first what say?

NOT EXCLUSIVE OF MY DAUGHTER

Anil Kapoor who didn’t believe in endorsement deals and has never done an ad till date finally agreed to do so as his daughter Sonam was a part of it.

The father-daughter duo will be seen together in a luxury pen endorsement ad for the first time together and inside sources say it is absolutely amazing to watch out for. Anil who received many offers earlier always maintained that it was his acting that would do the talking and not his endorsement deals.

But the actor has lastly made an exception for his daughter’s sake and will do something to keep her in the limelight. Particularly when her drawn film career and infamous attitude (read Aishwarya bashing) have been the very reasons for her diminishing star power. The two have been paid a whopping amount for the deal and in view of the amount she’s being paid for the Ad, Sonam wouldn’t have to worry even if her next two films were a flop.

Sources added to the press, ‘The brand endorsed by this father-daughter duo, will certainly have an added advantage of targeting different generation and age groups. So no doubt the brand, endorsed by them, will definitely stand to benefit.’

It’s hard to imagine how much a Pen is going to determine age groups and target audience, but what the heck! Anil finally did manage to make his advertisement debut that too after a cool 50 years, for him that’s an achievement alright.

AAMIR SWIG DOWN 3.5 CRORE

You heard it right; the purist known for his picky nature just signed a support deal with Roohafza worth Rs. 3.5 crore.

But wait, here comes the best part, the Ad won't even air on TV. The actor was paid the huge amount for the company’s commercial that will be used for business conferences in order to clinch business deals. Aamir who is the brand ambassador for Tata Sky and a couple of government ads is very choosy about endorsements.

Then again who wouldn’t be tempted with such an offer, inside sources say that Aamir is a regular consumer of the 110 year old Sherbat brand and only after a long thought did he agree to do the ad.

Roohafza has been in the biz well before any cola brand in the country and have never used any big stars for marketing. The only time they chose an actor was when Juhi Chawla was roped in for the commercial a while back. Mallika Sherawat was in their ads when she was a nobody.

Then again Shah Rukh too was roped in recently to be the face of Arindam Chaudhari IIPM Business and Marketing quiz, India's premier B-school quiz event, and allegedly charged a whopping amount for the same. The quiz is an in house contest for the MBA students testing their skills and intelligence.

We all know that stars have allowed products to not only rake in all that moolah but also stay in the public eye, but now they’d rather just do with the money and do away with the publicity, eh?

‘LOVE AAJ KAL’ OUTING ON A LOT OF BUZZ

Film is predictable to re-boost Saif and Deepika's career after their flops.

Its songs have already become a hit and the promos are good, but "Love Aaj Kal" is an acid test for actors Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone as their last couples of films have turned out to be duds at the box office. There are really lots of expectations from this romantic comedy that releases on Friday (July 31).

Despite giving 2008's first hit in "Race", Saif's "Tashan", "Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic" and animated venture "Roadside Romeo" (voice-over) fell flat at the box office. So did Deepika's much-hyped "Chandni Chowk To China" opposite Akshay Kumar.

"Love Aaj Kal" is not only Saif's first outing this year; it is also his debut as producer.

"'Love Aaj Kal' is garnering a lot of buzz. In fact it is after long that a proper love story is coming on screen. The idea is novel and will draw a good opening. It is also expected to re-boost Saif and Deepika's career after their flops," Delhi-based distributor Joginder Mahajan told IANS.

"The promotion of the film has been very good and the songs are already a hit. Besides Saif is in a double role in the movie, which will be amazing to watch out for," he added.

Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the movie has been co-produced by Saif, Dinesh Vijan and Sunil A. Lulla.

Also starring Rishi Kapoor, Shweta Gulati and Rahul Khanna, the movie is said to be a remake of Taiwanese film "Three Times", which the producers have without. Neetu Singh also makes her comeback with the film in a cameo.

"'Love Aaj Kal' is one of the most applicable films to come out in a long time...it looks at relationships in a very new light and a very new language," Vijan posted on the movie's official website.

"The film's storyline is such that any common man can relate to it. It's so real and as you watch the film, you would feel that so many cases shown in it have happened to you too in real life," said Deepika.

"The film has a worldwide appeal. Whether it's the younger or the older generation, all will be able to recognize with the proceedings," she added.

Showing love in two different eras - 1965 and 2009 - through Veer Singh and Jai Vardhan Singh correspondingly, the film is about the spirit of love that never changes.

While Jai treats matters of the heart without passion and parts with from his lady love Meera (Deepika) in the name of being practical, Veer is naive about his love for Harleen (Shweta) and travels long distances to catch a glimpse of her, but fails to open his heart in front of her.

As both stories unfold, the broad message it gives is that relationships might be different in different eras, but the experience of being in love remains the same.

The film has got a first-time buzz due to its share of controversies too.

First it was in the news for its forward kissing scenes and the lead actors mouthing expletives and then the Punjabi Cultural And Heritage Board objected to Saif's bearded look and reasoned that Sikhs do not sport a trimmed beard as sported by him in the film.

All controversies at rest, the director is neither excited nor nervous before the release.

"I'm entirely stone-hearted at the moment. I'm still doing 16 hours of work for the film's promotion and don't have time to feel the excitement or the nervousness," Ali said.

KAT HAS A DESI THREATEN

Firoz Nadiadwala has purchased the rights of Hangover the much talked about film. It will be directed by Firoz’s favourite director Anees Bazmee. In the funny side, four men travel to Las Vegas for a 24 hour stag party.

They wake up with the worst hangover and find that the groom is missing, as they try to remember the details of the wicked night.

A source said, “Firoz bhai loved the script and the film and at once got into the process of acquiring the Hindi rights of the film. In fact, he has also been casting for the film on the cunning. Abhishek Bachchan will play the role played by Bradley Cooper and Paresh Rawal will step into the shoes of Zach Galifianakis.

Katrina Kaif will play the role of the fiancée. The film will start early next year.”

While Firoz Nadiadwala remained unrevealing, director Anees Bazmee set the news. Anees said, “It’s true. I am shooting in South Africa and Sanjay Dutt and I have been discussing the film.

I loved the film and Sanjay is very keen to do it too. Even Ritesh Deshmukh and Abhishek Bachchan have been finalised. I am shooting No Problem in Durban, once I am free of that, I will start scripting the film.”

'LOVE AAJ KAL' IS AFAR PROSPECT FOR ME

Deepika says film mesmerize her for three reasons

Since the release of "Om Shanti Om", Deepika Padukone has been seen in two more films - "Bachna Ae Haseeno" and "Chandni Chowk To China". But the leggie beauty persisted that if at all there is a unique movie after her debut vehicle, it has to be "Love Aaj Kal".

"I'm aware of the huge hope that audiences have from 'Love Aaj Kal'. Personally speaking though, the film is beyond expectations for me. I would rather call it a very special film," Deepika told IANS on telephone.

"We all have worked so hard on it, whether director Imtiaz Ali, Saif (Ali Khan) or myself, and we have become really fond of to it," said Deepika who is at present in London shooting for Sajid Khan's "Housefull" where she is paired opposite Akshay Kumar.

"Love Aaj Kal" is releasing on July 31 and she is excited about the film since it is as real as it gets.

"This is why I said that after 'Om Shanti Om' if there is a film that has been really special, it is 'Love Aaj Kal'. I can state three reasons why 'Love Aaj Kal' really fascinates me.

"First, the film's storyline is such that any common man can relate to it. It's so real and, as you watch the film, you would feel that so many instances shown in it have happened to you too in real life.

"Second, the film has a universal appeal. Whether it's the younger or the older generation, all will be able to identify with the proceedings. Imtiaz has a knack for keeping things basic and very simple, something that the world saw in 'Jab We Met' and 'Socha Na Tha'. His trademark touch is prevalent in 'Love Aaj Kal' too."

The third reason for Deepika to be really ecstatic after shooting for "Love Aaj Kal" is the dialogues that promise to be as natural as they get.

"Dialogues are such that they are more of conversational variety rather than sounding scripted. Imtiaz wanted all of us to perform rather than plain and simple mug up our dialogues and rattle them down. Yes, there was a dialogue sheet given, but it was mainly for reference," she said.

It was this freedom factor that really impressed Deepika. "There was nothing cast on stone and we actors were given a free hand to mouth dialogues that came naturally to them and suited the film's situation most. I guess this was one aspect that really made me open up a lot more during the film's shoot."

With Rishi Kapoor and Rahul Khanna in pivotal roles and Neetu Singh making a guest appearance, "Love Aaj Kal" is Saif's first home production with Pritam Chakaraborty's music already topping the charts.

AMITABH BACHCHAN ON CNN’S ‘TALK ASIA’

Talks about varying force of Bollywood. The Western world is now showing interest in Hindi films all since of its dance and music pleased, something that they ridiculed a few years ago, says megastar Amitabh Bachchan.

"We were ridiculed, and the West was very distrustful about the way we made our films and the content the songs and the dance, and the music was incredible that was kind of looked down upon many years ago.

"But that very aspect has now become its USP, and people love to see that. I would wait for that this is how and what our cinema is all about," Amitabh said on CNN's show "Talk Asia".

Speaking about Hollywood-Bollywood alliance, Amitabh said: "I think this has got to do a lot more with economics rather than sharing inventiveness... Hollywood is very healthy in their finance, they are using their money to invest in productions that are coming out of India. And in that respect, yes, holding hands with Hollywood companies or any other company is now becoming a routine."

Many Hindi films lately have seen international collaborations, including "Singh Is Kingg", which was produced by Warner Brothers, and animated film "Roadside Romeo" that was financed by Disney. "Kambakkht Ishq" featured Hollywood stars Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Routh and Denise Richards.

Amitabh himself will be sharing screen space with British actor Ben Kingsley in his approaching film "Teen Patti".

ASIN GETS TRAINED ON THE JOB

Asin may have grabbed awareness with some coveted projects after Ghajini, but the actress hadn’t done planning for her big splatter.

“I began working at a very early age. Today, newcomers come in with all sorts of training. I learnt the lot on the job and that has worked for me. Even when it came to talking in Hindi, I didn’t have much trouble because I am good with languages,” she says.

ASH LEARNS NEW DANCING STEPS

Astad Deboo, that modern and current Indian classical dancer, has been lured into the deep jungles of Athirappilly, Kerala, by filmmaker Mani Ratnam to teach the lovely Aishwarya Rai Bachchan some new steps.

Ash, who is shooting for Mani’s Raavan with hubby Abhishek Bachchan, is requisite to do a climactic life and death dance series for which the Padma Shri synthesis dance choreographer was particularly called in.

The actress, of course, is as graceful as can be when it comes to dancing on screen (remember Nimbuda from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Kahin Aag Lage from Taal), and choreographers from Saroj Khan to Shiamak Davar have raved about her professionalism when it comes to taking instruction. Now it’s Astad’s turn. This is his first experiment with Bollywood, though he did agree to lend his supple ingenuity to M F Husain’s Meenaxi before.

According to a source, Astad’s chosen a tandav of passion, revenge and salvation for Ash, because Mani wanted a fusion of kathak, ballet and modern dance. The steps are complex and new and Ash has to dance barefeet on slippery and unsafe ground. Besides, she has to do the steps twice over and in quick run, first with Abhishek for the Hindi version and then with Vikram for the Tamil version. Unsurprisingly, all this isn’t easy for the actress at all. She hasn’t been complaining, however.

Probably because she’s getting her fun watching Abhishek, who is infamously one of the worse dancers in Bollywood, struggling to work on his steps.

THE TRUE REASON BEHIND AKKI'S PRICE SLASH

Akshay Kumar was one of the highest paid actors in the industry and made no doubts of letting the world know about it.

After Singh Is King, Akki was on an all time high and was charging a whopping 50 crore per film. Even after the fiasco of CC2C and Tasveer 8*10, things didn’t seem to change so it was surprising to hear that after Kambakkht Ishq, the actor slashed his price to a mere 20 crores. And here we thought he was letting all those producers out of their depression.

The real reason behind the price decline was to ultimately cash in on the profits of a film. Kambakkht Ishq did manage to pool in Rs 100 crore at the Box Office and Akki would rather have a piece of this pie then be labeled as a high charging actor. For everyone knows how Akshay has been mocked for the same both in print, media and the more recent film ShortKut in which Arshad Warsi’s character was inspired by Akshay Kumar.

So with this new method in place, Akshay, these days, is insisting on knowing the cost of the film at the time of signing it so that he can calculate the profit in advance. Now now Akki, at this pace you might just leave all those producers out of their jobs!

KITES WILL FLY IN DECEMBER

Hrithik Roshan's much-awaited flick will release worldwide on December 18. After much hoopla and irresolution, it's finally official. Anurag Basu's Kites will release on December 18. And no, the film was not deferred due to editing issues.

Rather, it was waiting for international buyers. Says a source, "Now that there's a slump in the international market, Kites won't wait for international buyers any longer. The producers will give the film on a commission basis to international distributors."

The decision to release Kites on December 18 was taken after watching the film's final cut. Post-editing, the film is apparently an erotic feast. The love scenes between Hrithik and Mori are scorching and the producers have nothing to worry about.

Rakesh Roshan admits they're looking at December 18 as the worldwide release date for Kites. "But there are details that still need to be worked out and I'd rather not talk about it until everything is in place," he said. Adds Anurag, "Yes, we are looking at the date. I've left the final decision to Roshanji and Eros." Song Chopped.

Meanwhile, according to sources, Rakesh and Anurag had a dissimilarity of opinion over retaining a Barbara-Hrithik song. Rakesh, weaned on commercial cinema, notion it was an USP, while Anurag thought it vulnerable the film's flow. The song now goes off. However, Anurag insisted, "As for the songs, they all carry the story forward. If we remove one, I'll have to re-edit the film for continuity."

PRIYANKA BEATS MALLIKA

10,000 followers on Twitter in a month; Mallika has 8,000.

From Karan Johar to Mallika Sherawat, everyone is twittering these days. But foremost the pack is Priyanka Chopra who's set a record by having over 10,000 followers in a month. Before Priyanka it was Mallika Sherawat who was leading the pack with around 8,000 followers, but Priyanka has now claimed the top spot. A source close to the actress reveals Priyanka's Twitter fascination.

"She's very net know-how and a gadget freak. In fact she was very active on Facebook and when she logged on Twitter, she got enthusiastic on to it. For her it's the best way to directly interact with fans around the world. She takes time to read each and every message sent to her and replies back as and when she can." It's not just posting messages, but also taking pictures that have got Priyanka hooked. "Recently she was at a press talks and she went on stage and took a picture of the entire media in front of her. Then she also took a picture with her mom and brother. This is a chance for her fans to take a sneak peek into her personal life," added the source.

When contacted Priyanka said, "I'm having a lot of fun. It's a great way for me to interact with my 'tweeps' directly... with no one in between! I think now that people have realised that it's really me on twitter, the number of followers have grown. It's mind blowing to have crossed this milestone within a month of being on twitter... Now I'm hoping my twitter family is going to grow even more!"

FOX STUDIOS PICKS UP RIGHTS OF ‘MY NAME IS KHAN’ FOR RS 100 CR: REPORT

Mumbai: No one sells like Shah Rukh Khan in Bollywood. Even before the release of ‘My Name is Khan’, his film is being seen as a hit bearing in mind the hype surrounding every little detail of the film.

Latest news has it that Fox Star Studio has allegedly bought the rights of the film for an enormous Rs 100 crores! Added to this, the film is said to be rich on music side as well with songs having chartbusting potential. Critics, who have seen the rushes of MNIK, were besieged by what they saw and heard. They were all praises for the trio of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, the music composers and director Karan Johar.

‘My Name is Khan’ has been in news for all the right reasons. Super hit onscreen couple SRK and Kajol will be seen as one after a long time. Written by Shibani Bathija, the film is about a Muslim (Shah Rukh) who suffers from the Asperger syndrome, a form of autism that impacts social interaction abilities and he is arrested as an alleged terrorist in post-9/11 Los Angeles after authorities mistake his disability for doubtful behaviour.

After distributing ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ in India, Fox Star Studio is hopeful about this much-awaited biggie which has all the potential to be a blockbuster.

WHY BEBO REFUSES TO WEAR SAIF’S RING

On a mild Sunday afternoon, 23-year-old Jeet Dasgupta tears down a life-size poster of tennis pro Sania Mirza from his bedroom wall.

He taunts, “Sania post her engagement isn’t a hot male fantasy. Soon, she’ll be talking kids.” In the delight playground of idol worship, engaged female celebs enjoy second class citizenship. An online poll on timesofIndia.com recently discovered that 58 per cent of readers felt that marriage would mark a fall in B-town queen Kareena Kapoor’s star rating. A reader from Qatar declared, “Saying ‘yes’ will kill her image.”

Is it the fear of trailing popularity that pressurises female icons to shy away from matrimony? Bebo, who’s been spotted with a huge solitaire of late, dispels engagement rumours, “Am I crazy to get married now when so many wonderful things are occurrening to my career? It can wait for two years.”

In the delicate world of glamour, why are rules different for the sexes? Adman Prahlad Kakkar says, “Once hitched, the brand value of a female star falls. She’s no longer available as the subject of vicarious popular imagination. In India, marriage is connected with ethics, so fans can’t handle a married woman rotating in a bikini.”

An industry source says, “Rani Mukherji was the No 1 heroine after Hum Tum and Black. But, she turned herself into an elite Yashraj property, by secretly marrying producer Aditya Chopra. Today her career’s scripted by him.”

The original ‘It’ girl of the ‘90s, Pooja Bedi recalls how her ex-husband wanted her to quit films post marriage. “Being in the industry involves gruelling outdoor schedules, scandalous gossip, alleged link-ups and controversies. Non-star partners are intimidated,” says Bedi.

Former model Walusha Robinson recalls, “Offers stopped as soon as I had my first child. Though I was only 20, abruptly, I was being doled out commercials that saw me playing either a mother or a wife.”

Besides viewer voyeurism, director Madhur Bhandarkar points out, “The lifespan of an actress is short-lived. In a male-dominated industry, it takes at least three to four years to break through. Once an actress tastes success, it’s hard to resist the glamour bug, which is why most heroines talk marriage after they’ve crossed their prime or delay marriage if they’re young and seeing someone. Ironically, married heroes like Aamir or SRK are considered cool, but once a Priyanka Chopra marries, she may be offered the role of a bhabhi.” He adds, “Most distributors, including corporate houses feel casting married actresses is risky as they’re uncomfortable kissing onscreen, wearing a bikini or engaging in a love-making scene.”

B-town’s biggest female brand icon Aishwarya turned down the lead in the gay spoof Dostana saying the role was “too sexy for her married image.”

Kakkar says, “Youth sells! A married woman often carries with her the baggage of age.” No wonder then that 20-something newcomers like Deepika Padukone, Sonam Kapoor and Genelia D’Souza are nudging out 30-plus heroines from films and brand endorsements. Priyanka was heard saying, “No one in this industry is indispensable. Someone takes over from somebody.”

Actress Perizad Zorabian admits, “Married heroines tend to choose less risqué roles as there’s a chance of offending their extended family. And, once you have children you have to compromise.” Perhaps this explains the self-imposed hiatus that stars like Jaya Bachchan, Sridevi, Madhuri Dixit, Kajol and Karishma Kapoor took, before being lured by the arc lights again. But ‘comebacks’ too are risky. Madhur says, “Audiences can’t accept the physical changes in their female icons.”

Karisma Kapoor however dismisses the notion about actresses not getting good roles after marriage as a mere myth. “Does anybody in Hollywood ask Julia Roberts and Meryl Streep, who make one film in five years, whether they’re coming back? Sharmila Tagore delivered some of her biggest hits after her children were born,” she retorts.

Actress Ayesha Takia, who recently tied the knot asks, “If our married actors can be treated professionally, why actresses can’t be treated as professionally?”!

NEW LADY IN SHAHID KAPUR’S LIFE

His love life said to have taken another turn

Not many know if Shahid Kapur’s ‘serial-dater’ tag is right or purely based on rumors, but reports about his connection just don’t end.

While post-Kareena the young actor has not approved having a girlfriend, gossip has never stopped. Vidya Balan, Sania Mirza, Priyanka Chopra - he’s said to have gone from one woman to the next rather rapidly. And, just as rapidly, he has reportedly moved on to his latest woman – Anushka Sharma of “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi” fame.

Shahid’s relationship with Priyanka has made enough news off late, with the two opposites said to be eternally on the brink of a split. It’s now being said that they have parted ways.

In fact, the souring of the relationship is in fact even coming in the way of the promotion of their film “Kaminey”, scheduled to release on August 14. Both are said to be avoiding joint appearances at promotional events.

In the meantime, it’s being said that Shahid is getting close to Anushka, with whom he’s shooting for a Yash Raj film, directed by actor Parmeet Sethi.

By the way, according to an astrologer, Shahid-Priyanka is potentially a weak match wherein ego issues and conflict of power are most likely. Their connection has little prospects and even if they are dating, it will all be over by the end of this year, it’s predicted.

I'M PLANNING TO CUT MY HAIR, SAYS KAREENA

Actress speaks about the highs and lows of being a style icon.Having been chosen as a style icon, Kareena Kapoor now intends to go on a long shopping overdo in various fashion capitals and also cut her hair.

"I have to...I've no choice. I'm looked at as a fashion statement. Very tiring, but pleasing. Dress designer Aki Narula has set impossible standards of fashion for me through my films. Now I've no choice but to live up to those standards. I've raised the bar for fashion," Kareena told IANS.

"After 'Kambakkht Ishq', in 'Qurbaan' Aki has again made me look so special," added the actress who gives the credit for her 'Kambakkht..." look to Aki.

"He went shopping for my clothes and accessories. This may be a film, but I've never worked harder. In terms of styling and body language even dance and drama, I really worked hard. I wanted it to be a 'phataka' kind of role. I wanted the audience to come out breathless," said Kareena, who may soon be off on a shopping journey to fashion hubs such as Milan, Paris, London and New York.

"It becomes tiring for everything I wear to be in the media glare. I continually need to be well-dressed. It's a price I've to pay, in more ways than one. I don't have a choice but to have my wardrobe filled with choices.

"Nowadays when I go abroad, I find myself spending more time in shops than holidaying. It's a duty. And I do need to be chic all the time. But my being a fashion icon also depends on my outlook and mood of the moment," said the actress.

Asked if she shifted loyalties from dress designer Manish Malhotra to Aki, she said: "No. I love Aki's work and plan to use his clothes very often. But Manish and I go back a long way. He clad up my sister to stardom and then me. We're not the kind of people who move on in our friendships.

"I'm back with Manish Malhotra in '3 Idiots' and the remake of 'Stepmom'. I'll be dressed up as a stylish young girl. I'm planning to cut my hair. I'm really proud to be called stylish. I like that," said the actress.

The selection of clothes and designer depends upon the roles, says Kareena.

"In 'Jab We Met', I was simply dressed in salwar-kameez. In my forthcoming films 'Qurbaan' and '3 Idiots', I'm minimalist in my clothes.

"But 'Kambakkht Ishq' was about beautiful surfaces and shallow people. I had to dress immaculately. The standards for a heroine's look and styling had to be raised. In terms of clothes, hair and makeup we've done that in 'Kambakkht Ishq'. The fact is, I wanted to look very different. I wanted to look larger than life," she said.

But the actress says she is equally comfortable playing a girl next door like she did in "Omkara".

"If I can carry off Kolhapuri chappals in 'Omkara', I'm equally at home in Jimmy Choos in 'Kambakkht Ishq'. I'm equally proud of both kinds of films. Madhuri (Dixit) did an 'Mrityudand' and a 'Choli ke peeche' (in 'Khalnayak') side by side. Look at the film actors like Madhuri, my sister Karishma, Saif Ali Khan and Akshay did in the 1990s. And look where they got! I guess I was lucky."

DEEPIKA PADUKONE IS DOWN WITH THE MALARIAL FEVER

Deepika Padukone is down with malaria. The actress, who is at present shooting in London, had not been keeping well for the past few days. Though at first it was thought that the Om Shanti Om girl was suffering from a viral infection, tests have now proved that it is malarial fever.

On Wednesday, Dippy appeared in no condition to face the camera. As reported ('Deepika unwell'; Hitlist, July 22), she had been fair enough to shoot as major sequences with her and co-star Akshay Kumar are being canned. On Tuesday, however, although the high fever, she managed to still shoot for some scenes.

Now the shoot of Housefull is on only with Akshay and the rest of the cast. Both director Sajid Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala have told her to go easy and not to shoot till she fully recovers.

As Deepika is too weak to talk, a source close to the actress says, "Two days after she landed in London on July 11 for the shoot, she felt excited. Assuming it to be an under the weather situation, she began popping painkillers, but the fever would not subside. She also had shivering. The unit folk then took her to a doctor on Tuesday night and she was diagnosed with malaria.

Deepika was to complete her scenes of Housefull by this weekend and fly back to Mumbai for the promotions of Love Aaj Kal. "But in this condition, whether she can take the long flight back home is to be seen," adds the source.

PLZ DON’T CALL ME CHOCOLATE BOY: IMRAN

Now puhlease don’t get disturb Ranbir....your buddy Imran isn’t talking about you here.

He’s only talking about his own ‘chocolatey’ label. Imran’s debut film Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na, which was a huge success, were a candy floss romance, though with some freshness and extra flavour, but c’mon it was a rom-com, after all. And Imran was hyped as the hottest new chocolate-boy. Along with Ranbir Kapoor, of course.

In recent times, when ZOOM was doing a special interview with this dashing Khan, for Luck, he confessed in so many words that he didn’t mostly fancy the ‘chocolate-boy’ image. In fact he said that he hates the word ‘chocolate-boy’. Uh-huh...this is what we don’t get.

If the image works wonders for him (and wins him so many fans, even if they’re mostly women), what’s the problem, yaar? consider Mamu (Aamir Khan) started his career’s first hit with a lover-boy image in QSQT. Well, so hold on dude, there’s still time to turn into the angry young man. Wotsay, Mamu? Catch the Imran Khan Luck special on ZOOM this week!

ASH IS AN ICON, I'M NOWHERE: KATRINA

Katrina Kaif, whose act in New York is still getting her compliments, is pleased as Punch... but the actress who recently celebrated her birthday with family in London, is also anxious about the huge task this success has now thrust upon her.

“I’m going to be expected to raise the bar with each further release,’’ she said, “and the thought is scary.”

Taking stock of the top brass in Bollywood, Kat said, “I disagree with the constant statement that actresses in Bollywood are interchangeable.’’ According to her, each of the top contenders had an uniqueness, and she was certain that what Kareena Kapoor could do... she herself would never be able to.

“Kareena is a incredible actress,’’ admitted Kat. “I’m still nowhere near her as a performer.’’

She was also of the belief that Priyanka Chopra, Asin, Deepika Padukone, Vidya Balan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had their own entity strengths. “I hate this media refrain that heroines in Bollywood are all the same,” complained Kat. “Priyanka, Asin and Vidya are my contemporaries. Can you imagine Parineeta without Vidya? Jab We Met without Kareena? Or, for that matter, Fashion without Priyanka? They are all first grade in these films.’’

Obviously, she is annoyed that a magazine called them all assembly-line products who could be replaced by one another without the audience noticing the difference. Katrina flashed, “By pigeon-holing us, the journalist is showing his or her lack of awareness.’’

Another irritant is the constant comparison to Ash just because the two of them have endorsed the same products. “Aishwarya is an icon, I’m nowhere close to her,’’ said the actress who is currently one of the top contenders for Kareena’s No. 1 slot in Bollywood.

And, as for that reference also in the media to her being “a modern day Madhubala”, Kat asked doubtfully, “Where did that spring up from? Madhubala was an iconic actress. I’m not even one per cent of what she was. And I’m not amused at such comparisons because, honestly, I have no illusions of having reached somewhere with the body of work I have behind me. My journey has only just begun.’’

AKSHAY, 30-CRORE HERO, ECONOMISES

Since Akshay Kumar pays all his taxes carefully it is safe and secure to state that his market price is Rs 30 crores per movie.

But he’s also alert of the recession around him. When so his wife and child flew in to London to join him earlier this week, Akshay insisted on paying for their air tickets.

Says a source, “Producer Sajid Nadiadwala insisted it was a very small amount and part of the crew’s travel expenses. But Akshay insisted. He won’t load his producer with extra expenses at all, although he will charge his market price.”

Confirming this price a producer says, “Akshay does charge Rs 30 crores. No doubt about it. But ahead of that there are no extra costs at all. Akshay pays for the expenses that occur during shooting.”

In fact our 30-crore hero who has just delivered another success Kambakkht Ishq decided to economize for the same producer when they reunited for another film Housefull in London this month.

Instead of putting up at the posh St James Hotel where Amitabh Bachchan and other A-listers from Bollywood stay when shooting in London, Akshay chose the posh but nevertheless far less expensive Hotel Cumberland although the producer insisted Akshay stay at the more expensive place.

Says Akshay, “No, I always prefer to stay with the rest of the unit. It always creates a feeling of unity among the crew. In fact my wife and son have just joined me in London. They’re staying at Cumberland with me.”

Apparently Akshay also paid Twinkle and Aarav’s airfare from his own pocket, refusing to let his harried producer bear a bit more of the ever-mounting expenses.

Says Akshay, “Sajid is an old friend. And even if he wasn’t I know exactly how difficult it is for a producer to keep the budget in check. During all the years that I’ve been in the industry I’ve observed what a thankless task it is for producers to meet up the demands of the project and the people involved with the project.”