LONDON DREAMS VS. ALADIN

Two big budget films are releasing this weekend. Whose wish to be doing well will come true? Celebrity astro-numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi helps us decode the answers.

“The title LONDON DREAMS adds up to Number 41 (5) – the symbol of this number is forbidden power and success. So, going by this description, it seems the film would sail safely,” predicts Bhavikk.

He continues, “Of the cast, Salman is in his 44th year and the title, adding up to Number 5, does not really work in his favour. He might obtain extreme reactions for his work. Like the year 2009, Ajay is also a Number 2 person, but he being in his 41st year will receive mixed reactions too. On the other hand, Asin also has just entered her 25th year (26th October, 1985), which is not great news moreover.”

“It seems the film’s run may be short-lived, but it will not be a losing venture,” is Bhavikk’s last word on London Dreams.

“The title ALADIN adds up to Number 15 (6) – this octave of Number 6 is fine, but does not support Number 4 and Number 8 people. The title role is being played by Riteish Deshmukh, who was born on December 17 – that makes him a Number 8 person. So, the tremor of the title does not go in sync with its main lead. And that’s bad news,” predicts Bhavikk.

He continues “Even Mr. Bachchan is a Libran partly ruled by Number 8 (Saturn) and hence, his role and passing may also come under fire. Even or else, the year 2009 does not support people, things or work associated with Number 8. So, the chances are still bleak.”

Bhavikk concludes, “It seems Bollywood will have to churn out some more ideas from its dream factory to ‘fantasize’ the audiences. Unluckily, Aladin isn’t the winning idea!”

The London Dreams cast is no less than neck-deep in promoting the film, though only Friday will tell if it has been able to entice crowds. London Dreams has a Dubai premiere, and Aladin could have done the same, but chose to stay put on home ground, perhaps because it has a more 'Indian dream' of conquering the nation's box office, unlike London Dreams, which has international aspirations.

AJAB PREM: KATRINA AND RANBIR

Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor walked the ramp at the Wills Lifestyle Fashion Week in New Delhi for designer Rohit Bal.

Katrina is going all out to promote the film with Ranbir, and she isn’t very enthusiastic on promoting De Dana Dan, her other film with Akshay. She has been honest about the fact that she did the movie because Akshay requested her to be part of it and she cannot say no to him.

The Brit-Indian likes spending time with Ranbir during the promotions and has said that she likes him because they connect with each other and he is her age. Now which ‘old actor’ is she making a dig at?

Like most other co-stars, they sing praises of each other. Katz lately said in an interview, “Ranbir is a very cool, chilled-out guy and a terrific actor, who helped me in my scenes. He is pretty different from my other co-stars, and I connect with him.”

Meanwhile, Katrina refused to walk the ramp with Gudda’s original munda and opted for Ranbir as a substitute. We are referring to Katz’s Rajneeti co-star Arjun Rampal (Rohit Bal’s prodigy), who had requested her to walk the ramp with him at the Wills Lifestyle Fashion Week but she turned him down in favour of Ranbir. Katz fancies Ranbir and, like a love-struck teenage girl, she is making it quite obvious. In the film, Katz’s character Jennifer doesn’t care much for Prem, but she is making up for it in real life. The two make a good-looking pair and have great chemistry.

If Katz has the hots for Ranbir, it is obvious that there are cracks in the Ranbir-Deepika relationship. Deepika hasn’t taken very kindly to Ranbir’s friendship with Katz and their hectic schedules have affected their relationship.

Sources inform us that the Salman-Katrina relationship is over though they both are very good friends. That is why Katrina was seen hanging out with Karan Johar at the GQ Awards and Pinky Roshan’s party. She was also chatting with SRK at the birthday party.

It will be interesting to see how this ajab prem ki ghajab kahani progresses. Is the romance just publicity stunt or is something really brewing between the two hotties?

BEBO AND SAIF TO BRING UP INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM ON BUSH'S DELHI VISIT

Will talk on international terrorism on October 31 when George W Bush comes to Delhi.

At a conference in Delhi on October 31, Kareena Kapoor and beau Saif Ali Khan will share the platform with former US president George W Bush. The couple aims to mention the subject of international terrorism, which is also the theme of their ready-to-release film Kurbaan.

While Saif is preparing his points for the big day, Kareena will go with the flow at her meeting with Bush. "I'm a very spontaneous person. It's like that with my acting. It would be like that when I meet Mr Bush. Jo dil mein hai woh bolungi."

This is the first time that Kareena will be addressing an international summit. But she isn't the least bit nervous.

"By now I've gained enough self-confidence to be able to speak at such summits with some amount of confidence.

Currently, you can't afford to have your head buried in the sand. You have to know what's happening in the world around you." Kareena admits Saif is a better talker. "In fact, I've learnt a lot of new words from him. But even otherwise I think I speak quite well."

KATRINA KAIF FEATURES ON COVER OF VOGUE MAGAZINE

The wedding season comes knocking and the most celebrated fashion Magazine Vogue comes out with a wedding unique edition this November. Gracing the cover is the beautiful and heart warming Katrina Kaif herself, looking every bit appealing in a purple sequinned Chanel Haute Couture dress.

While this subject makes for a special one, what with showcasing the most splendid creations from India's most famous wedding gurus, tips from the best wedding planners, caterers, florists, invitation designers, but there is an uninhibited chat with Katrina herself as she talks of her experience with fame and fortune, what's it like to be beautiful in Bollywood, and why she just might be a escapee bride. All this and more in the latest issue of Vogue.

KAREENA AND SRK ARE SUPERHEROES

Kareena and SRK were paired with each other in Santosh Sivan’s Asoka in 2001. They will now be coming together as an onscreen pair in Anubhav Sinha’s Ra One, Shah Rukh’s home production.

A source tells us, “Ra One is a science-fiction film set in the future in which Shah Rukh plays a superhero. So he will be seen wearing a cape, his underwear over his pants, flying over skyscrapers and saving the day. Officially, Ra Onewill be India’s third superhero film, Krishh and Drona being the first two. Ra One is a big budget film with never-before seen special effects.”

About Kareena’s role in the movie, our source said, “An actor and star of Kareena’s stature and quality will not be happy playing just a glam doll so she has signed because she has been given a considerable role in the film. She is super fit and lean too and can mould herself according to any role. The stunning star will also get to kick some butt after Tashan. Being signed on for Ra One is a big deal for Kareena because it will be one of the most anticipated releases of 2010. She already has KJo’s Stepmom remake. Moreover, working in Ra One will increase her chances of playing the lead in Farah Khan’s Happy New Year. Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone are the other actors who are eyeing the film.”

Ra One is directed by Anubhav Sinha of Dus, Tum Bin and Cash fame. The director has an eye for action and his songs (Dus Bahane, Cash, and Naughty Naughty) are chartbusters. Filming will begin in US in December, followed by a schedule in Mumbai.

3 IDIOTS NOT A DIRECT LIFT OF BOOK

Aamir Khan starrer 3 Idiots isn’t a direct version of the Chetan Bhagat Novel Five Point Someone, but has the trademark Hirani twist to it.

Chetan Bhagat’s novel Five Point Someone was about three IIT hostel mates with below average GPAs ongoing in a B-school. Their marks not only affect their professional life, but family and love life as well. However, director Rajkumar Hirani who’s known best for creating the Munnabhai fact has provided his own rendition to the tale of the three IITians. Hirani, when quizzed about the film being an adaptation, confirmed, “While the basic premise of the B-school and IITian culture is similar to that of the book, the film is very loosely based on the novel. The story and characters are very different, along with the humor and message that is delivered through the life of the three friends.”

A source on the sets of the film reveals, “The film is a nick above the book. Hirani has thrown light on the professional and parental pressure IITians go through in a B-school. The pressure of always being on top, strict competition and the necessity of doing everything forms the book and has been highlighted in the movie. The plight of the students and their parents will help audiences relate with the story. It’s a complete entertainer, considering Hirani’s humour can leave anybody rolling off their seat and also the message given at the end of each of his films. Aamir is the star of the film indeed, but Sharman Joshi, Madhavan and, most importantly, Boman Irani shine throughout the film. Kareena Kapoor is a breath of fresh air in the film. All characters are essaying the role of 20-25 year olds and are completely believable. 3 Idiots is a must-watch for the youth and their parents.”

Boman Irani too tagged the film as a must-watch in a recent interview and Kareena labeled 3 Idiots as the film of the year. With Aamir Khan going around town promoting the film through the youth, it is quite evident that the actors and the filmmakers feel very strongly about their approaching offering. Sounds like this film will be worth all those prospect, indeed!

KARAN KI KURBAANI

Both Kurbaan and New York are about terror campaign, but that doesn’t mean they have the same story.

The backdrop of global terrorism is the ordinary factor, but the narrative constitution and the characters are very different in the two films. Adi and I are best friends so we aren’t stupid to make films with the same story. I hope audiences like Kurbaan,’ clarifies Karan Johar.

Kabhie Alvida Naa Kehna in 2006 was the last film KJo directed and MNIK is now in post production to release in 2010. In the meanwhile, Wake Up Sid! And Dostana were only produced by him and directed by newcomers Ayan Mukerji and Tarun Mansukhani respectively. ‘Tarun, Ayan and Siddarth Malhotra have assisted me on my films. So I know them. I always choose my ADs after immense consideration because I don’t want people simply occupying space in my office. They have to be talented and they have to stay. I don’t want them to do one film with Dharma and leave. I am only going to work with new directors and some of them have a three-film contract with Dharma. I don’t want to work with established directors,’ he says, adding, ‘I am very happy with the results of Wake Up Sid! And Dostana and thrilled about the forthcoming films.’

Karan had the plot of Kurbaan ready way back in 2001 and the film was going to be called Kaal. Sanjay Dutt, SRK and Tabu were to be part of it but the film never materialized. ‘That Kaal never got made. I shared the story idea with Rensil and he built a screenplay around it, which resulted in Kurbaan starring Saif and Kareena. From the onset, we wanted them to star in it. I love the way the film has turned out,’ comments Karan.

About Kurbaan’s director, Rensil D’silva, KJo says, ‘Rensil and I first interacted on the screenplay and story of Kurbaan. I felt that he had a desire to direct a film and I respected his aesthetics and writing, so that is how Kurbaan happened.’

SALMAN KHAN PROMOTING LATEST MOVIE IN LONDON

He arrived in the city from Dubai.

Salman Khan, who landed in London this morning (October 28) after the Dubai premiere of Vipul A. Shah's “London Dreams” last night, is getting into top gear to promote the film, which previews in the UK on Thursday, October 29.

In addition to doing one-on-ones with select media at his Central London hotel today, it is believed he will be visiting the studios of Sunrise Radio and Asian Star Radio tomorrow at 3pm and 5pm respectively to promote “London Dreams” live on air.

RANBIR TO WALK THE RAMP WITH CO-STAR KATRINA AFTER GOING SOLO AT KJO'S SHOW

After a solo ramp emergence for Karan Johar at Couture Week, Ranbir Kapoor is now set to walk the ramp with his Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani leading lady, Katrina Kaif.

Our source reveals, "The FDCI Fashion Week 2009 ends with designer Rohit Bal's collections. To mark the show's grand finale, the designer has roped in Ranbir and Katrina. They will also promote APKGK at the event.

Rohit felt that Ranbir and Katrina think he couldn't have gotten hotter showstoppers for his show."

Amusingly, this is for the first time that Ranbir and Katrina will walk the ramp together for a fashion event. Although they have walked before individually. Kat confirms, "Yes it is true that Ranbir and I will be walking the ramp together for designer Rohit Bal to promote Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani. I am really looking forward to it."

AAMIR AND TABU IN A FILM TOGETHER

Aamir and Tabu have not worked together before and they will be paired with each other in Priyadarshan’s serious film on AIDS.

A source tells us that Aamir has agreed to do the film as it is practical and he wants to add to the cause of AIDS through this film, which is only 95 minutes long. Priyadarshan wanted to make this film last year, but he waited to see the response to his other realistic film, Kanchivaram. He got a positive response and now he is delighted about his AIDS film. Aamir and Priyadarshan will team up for the first time if Aamir likes the script as much as the idea of the film.

Tabu hasn’t confirmed her existence in the film. She has previously worked with the director on Hera Pheri, Kaala Pani and Viraasat. She is currently busy with Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi’s The Legend of Kunal and romantic comedy Toh Baat Pakki.

Our source tells us that Priyadarshan will now start work on the script and he will take his time to finish it, because he wants the film to be as well-researched and sensitive as possible. He wants Aamir to be part of it because the audience knows that Aamir is very choosy about his scripts and only does quality films. Everybody goes to see an Aamir Khan film as he has one release a year. This could become another fact like Taare Zameen Par.

Tabu and Aamir were part of Fanaa, but they didn't have any scenes with each other.

Kanchivaram won several awards internationally and the National Award in India. Let’s hope the AIDS film does equally well.

PRABHUDEVA’S GIRL IN MOST WANTED?

News is making the rounds that in the sequel of Salman Khan starrer Wanted, Prabhudeva’s believed mistress Nayantara will play the lead female role.

Salman Khan’s Wanted helped the industry heave a sigh of relief as the film raked in heavy boxoffice success. Not only did Wanted help bring Salman back on the Bollywood front after four continuous flops, but it also was the last saving grace for producer Boney Kapoor. The complete masala entertainer was something the audience was waiting for a long time, and it was but natural that the filmmakers would go in for a sequel. Director Prabhudeva had said before the release of the film, “This film has been carved around Salman’s character and nobody could have essayed his role. Wanted is a complete entertainer, and it’s been a while since a film like this has surfaced.”

After the mega success of the film, Boney Kapoor began thinking of the sequel timidly titled Most Wanted, and sources say Prabhudeva insisted on having Nayantara playing the female lead. Nayantara is a big name down south and has several hit films to her name. She is also rumored to be Prabhu Deva’s mistress, and a source close to the film added, “It’s a known fact that Prabhudeva and Nayantara have been dating for quite a while now. His wife has in public accused her and has even said that if she was to meet Nayantara in public, she wouldn’t leave her alive. However, Prabhu stays unfazed, and the minute the sequel toWanted was finalised upon, he suggested her name for the female role. Considering Ayesha Takia has retired from films, he wants Nayantara to make her Bollywood debut with Most Wanted. Boney however isn’t going to let any of the details out soon, as he still needs to finalise several pre-production matters. Salman is very proud of Wanted and cant wait to start on the sequel; the film got him positive reviews from literally every reviewer in town, and it is only natural for him to take the sequel to another level.”

When StarBoxOffice contacted Boney Kapoor, he refused to comment on the matter, but had earlier said, “A lot of hard work has gone into Wanted. The film is my last resort to stay afloat in the industry, and I am blown away with its success. It is only natural for me to take this association with Salman and Prabhu forward, but when the time is right, the things will fall into place.”

RANBIR BENEFITS FROM SHAH RUKH BEING BUSY

Aditya Chopra going forward with first film without SRK.

Aditya Chopra is apparently all set to direct his next film after “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi”. It will be a young love story written by him as well.

For the first time, close friend Shah Rukh Khan will not be starring in a movie directed by Adi. As SRK is busy with Farah Khan's film “Happy New Year” and Farhan Akhtar’s “Don 2”, Adi had to come up with a script that requisite another kind of leading man.

As the need was for a young hero, Ranbir Kapoor is said to be doing the film now.

Is Ranbir on his way to becoming the new Yash Raj Films’ favourite? Looks like he’s at least on his way. Adi’s film will be his third with YRF after “Bachna Ae Haseeno” and the upcoming “Rocket Singh Salesman of the Year”.

'BLUE' SEQUEL TO START SOON

Original cast set to return.

Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision spent Rs 80 crore plus on “Blue”. Now the producers are getting set to shell out even more money for the film’s sequel, which could be starting sometime soon.

The cast of “Blue” – Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, Zayed Khan and Lara Dutta - will be repeated in the new film, with most likely the addition of another hero.

While “Blue” was shot in Bahamas, “Blue 2” will head to Australia, known for its stunning beaches and marine life.

It’s also being reported that “Blue” director Anthony D'Souza is planning another film too, an on high drama cautiously titled “Aerial”.

The director has confirmed that his good friends John Abraham and Sonal Chauhan have already being signed for the project. It will be a three-hero film, and we’ve heard Akshay Kumar is also likely to be on board.

SALMAN KHAN SHOW IN KOLKATA ON OCT 23

40,000 people turned up last time he was there.

Salman Khan will be performing live in Kolkata on October 23.

Salman had gone to Kolkata for a show last month. But he could not perform because of a crowd management problem. Nearly 40,000 people had turned up at the venue, the Mohammedan Sporting Club, which can put up 20,000 people. This resulted in chaos and the show being cancelled.

Salman, however, promised his fans he would return, and that’s what he’s doing on Oct 23.

The event is now being held at the Salt Lake Stadium which can take around 1,25,000 people.

“I am going back to celebrate the success of my recent release ‘Wanted’ and the launch of my forthcoming film ‘London Dreams',” Salman has said.

RANI SETS GOOD EXAMPLE ON TV SHOW

She’s thrashing other celebrities with her professionalism.

Rani Mukerji, who made her debuts on the small screen as the judge of Sony TV's new reality show "Dance Premier League", overwhelmed the whole unit with her promptness and professionalism.

"She was there dot on time, ready with make-up on before some of the other celebrities had even arrived in the studio. Once on the sets, she proved her total professionalism," said a source from the show.

"More than that, she has proved that she is a perfectionist. Even before the director could decide he needed another take, she called for it herself and redid the takes until she was satisfied with the result. It certainly pays to work with Aamir Khan at the beginning of one's career. After all, a leaf from his book will only hold good," added the source.

SALMAN TOPPING OUR MOST STYLISH ASIANS POLL

See who are in Top 10...

Guess who’s top of the masala.com poll on the Most Stylish Asians? Salman Khan!

Goodlooking and fashion-savvy, this hero with a golden heart has been connected with several high fashion brands including Cartier and Ed Hardy.

Sridevi and Rekha are a close second and third.

Don’t forget to vote and look out for next week’s update.

Here’s this week’s Top 10:

1 Salman Khan

2 Sridevi

3 Rekha

4 Katrina Kaif

5 Hrithik Roshan

6 Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

7 Priyanka Chopra

8 John Abraham

9 Shahid Kapur

10 Kareena Kapoor

KATRINA GETS PUNK'D

Ajay Devgn plays a trick on Kat. He makes her gift Nana Patekar a cake box containing old underwear, a single chappal and a fake moustache.

Ajay Devgn strikes again. And this time the prankster's sufferer was co-star Katrina Kaif. Recently, on the sets of Prakash Jha's Rajneeti, Ajay took Arjun Rampal and Manoj Bajpayee into assurance and pulled a joke on his leading lady.

The trio told the actress that it was Nana Patekar's birthday and they said that since he was in a bad mood, Katrina have to wish him and present him with a gift box. Little did she know that the cake box really contained some funny items.

A source from the unit reveals, "This prank was Ajay's brain child and he took everyone on the sets in confidence. The trio walked up to Katrina and told her it was Nana's birthday and that they were throwing a party for him. They told her that she had to dress humbly in Indian attire, as Nana was very particular about how women dressed."

Kat quickly dressed up in a salwar-kameez and walked up to Nana with a box given by Ajay. "When Nana opened the box he was stunned to find old underwear, a single chappal and a fake moustache as a gift. Kat was dismayed."

A source close to Kat adds, "She was uncomfortable and turned beet red. Everyone including Ajay, Arjun and Manoj started laughing desperately. Nana finally told her it was a prank and that she should be more careful with Ajay from now on."

CASE OF FRAUD REGISTERED AGAINST AMITABH, AMAR SINGH

The two friends charged of Rs.500 crore scam. Amitabh Bachchan and Samajwadi Party general secretary Amar Singh have been accused of association in an Rs.500 crore money laundering scam, according to a complaint lodged with Kanpur police.

Lodged by local businessman Shivkant Tripathi late on Thursday (Oct 15), the first information report has charged the two renowned faces, who are close friends, of being involved in a major fraud through money laundering.

"The complainant has accused Amar Singh of floating half a dozen companies in which 43 companies were merged supposedly with the intent of siphoning off tonnes of black money," Uttar Pradesh's additional director general of police Brij Lal told reporters in Lucknow on Friday (Oct 16).

"Amitabh Bachchan figures among the key stake holders in most of the companies, while Amar Singh's wife Pankaja Singh is shown as a partner," he said.

According to Lal, "The companies, mostly registered in Kolkata, were identified as Eastern India Chemicals Pvt Ltd, Sarvottam Pvt Ltd, Pankaja Art and Credit Pvt Ltd, EDCL Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, EDCL Powers Ltd and Energy Development Company."

Cases were registered under the Money Laundering Act as well as Prevention of Corruption Act.

"The provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act could be invoked in view of Amar Singh's then appointment as chairman of the UP Development Council," the official said.

While complainant Tripathi could not be contacted, cops were not sure how they would proceed with the case.

"A case of fraud has been registered with the Babupurwa police station and only after beginning investigations are done will we be in a position to positively comment on the actual extent of the alleged fraud," he pointed out.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Mulayam Singh Yadav termed the FIR filed against party general secretary Amar Singh and Amitabh Bachchan as a "conspiracy", and said he sensed that Chief Minister Mayawati had a "hand in it".

"Such a frivolous case against such prominent people could not have been lodged without the connivance of the government and I have reason to believe that the chief minister too has a hand in it," Mulayam told a press conference in Lucknow on Oct 16.

Terming the FIR registered under the provisions of the Money Laundering Act and the Prevention of Corruption Act, as a "conspiracy", he said: "There can be no doubt that the whole thing is politically motivated."

"Earlier also Mayawati has played dirty against persons associated with the Samajwadi Party, but ultimately she failed in her design."

And virtually throwing the gauntlet at the Uttar Pradesh chief minister, the Samajwadi Party chief said: "I challenge these petty conspirators to try whatever they can, but they will not be able to cause the least harm to Amitabh Bachchan or to Amar Singh, whose stature is far too tall to get affected by such acts."

Mulayam Singh also sought to urge the prime minister to intervene and initiate "appropriate punitive action against all those responsible for hatching this conspiracy."

Recalling how the BSP leadership had earlier tried to hound him, he said: "Mayawati got as many as 149 cases lodged against me in one of her earlier stints as chief minister, but not one could pass the judicial scrutiny, which clearly reflects the political motivations behind such moves."

Meanwhile, sticking to his guns, Shivkant Tripathi, the man who filed the police complaint against Amar Singh and Amitabh Bachchan for allegedly laundering illegal money, ruled out any political hand behind the move.

"I am a social activist and chose to take up this issue because it involves a major fraud by people who are icons and political bigwigs," he told mediapersons in Lucknow.

He said: "If I have lodged the case, it was not without supporting evidence which runs into more than 1,700 pages of documents, that also depict the stakes Amitabh Bachchan has in the whole affair."

Maintaining that Amar Singh had juggled with balance sheets to siphon away lots of black money, Tripathi said: "If Amar Singh's political mentors were so confident that no fraud had been committed, then why were they so opposed to an open investigation?"

IS ADITYA CHOPRA BEHIND RANI’S TV DEBUT?

Filmmaker shares good relationship with channel.

Rani Mukerji was the last name announced by Sony TV to be the judge in the current dance reality show, “Dance Premier League” (DPL).

Was it Aditya Chopra’s suggestion that got her the show?

Sony TV and Yash Raj Films (YRF) share a very good business relationship.

It seems that just two days before Sony made the announcement about Rani being part of the show, the channel signed an agreement with YRF for producing exclusive fiction and non-fiction content for the channel. So now, Aditya Chopra and his talented team at YRF will be working as producers to create exclusive content for Sony TV.

By the way the timing of both the agreements was quite interesting. YRF’s deal with Sony and Rani being part of DPL happened almost at the same time.

We speculate whether Rani came as a packaged deal for Sony as part of the agreement with YRF?

For the moment, while shooting for the second episode of DPL, Rani communicated with one of the participants using sign language that she had learnt five years ago for her movie “Black”, in which she played a deaf and mute character.

One of the contestants on the show, Vishal, who was considered one of the best, was unfortunately deaf. After his performance, when it was the judges’ turn to comment, all of them spoke but Vishal could not understand a word.

That’s when Rani conversed with him in sign language and even congratulated him for being different. While everyone danced on the sound, Vishal had danced guided by his instincts and that’s what impressed Rani.

PRIYANKA SPOTTED AT HARMAN’S HOUSE

Is a patch-up on the cards?

Priyanka Chopra was on the guest list at the annual Diwali party that the Harman Baweja’s parents, Harry and Pammi, hosted this year.

Amazingly, she did come for the bash and stayed for a few hours.

After their break-up, Priyanka wasn’t even on talking terms with Harman. In reality, they started talking to each other only during the promotions of their film “What’s Your Rashee?”.

While they were a couple, Priyanka shared very good relations with Harman’s parents and sister Rowena. Though, she broke all ties with the Bawejas once she and Harman parted ways.

It seems that she turned up at the Diwali party as the senior Bawejas had invited her.

Is reunion with Harman on the cards? We wait and watch.

KARAN JOHAR DEBUTS AS DESIGNER

His thrilling collection besieged the young.

As Bollywood star couples Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri glide down the ramp together for the grand finale of the HDIL India Couture Week, they stole hearts with their chemistry.

This was the first time the star couple walked together on the ramp for their friend and filmmaker Karan Johar who in collaboration with designer Varun Bahl presented his men's wear collection on Friday (Oct 16).

Apart from them, Bollywood's young brigade, Imran Khan and Ranbir Kapoor, also strutted down the ramp.

Cheering for all of them were Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor, Preity Zinta, Kajol, Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra and Farhan Akhtar, Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor, Yash Chopra, Jaya Bachchan, Anupam Kher and Uday Chopra.

"Oh, they looked superb together. It didn't look like Gauri was walking the ramp for the first time, as she was walking with confidence. It was a great show," Deepika told IANS.

Johar's collection was glamorous and targeted at today's young generation.

"The line is basically formal but has a rock star feel to it. But it is completely wearable," said Johar.

Black subject the colour palette and the line had everything, from stylish shirts, sherwanis, coats to hot-pants, slim fit trousers and waistcoats.

The duo had also designed shoes and bags to go with the collection.

ARE AKSHAY AND SONAM TEAMING UP?

Buzz is Akshay Kumar and Sonam Kapoor is teaming up for a film being directed by Kunal Kohli.

The film in question is a romantic caper based in Rome, Kunal had been working on the script for a while when he approached Akshay for the lead role. Akshay though found some loopholes in the script and told Kunal to rewrite on the script. However, he didn’t totally reject the offer and even mentioned Sonam’s name for the female lead. Kunal was over the roof and went around town daring of Akki being the star of his film.

A source close to the director explained, “After the dud that was Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic, no one really was concerned in working with Kunal. Yash Raj too had washed their hands of him and he didn’t have any big banner too support him for his next. He had earlier approached Ranbir Kapoor, Imran Khan, Shahid Kapur and Saif Ali Khan but all of them refused the film. He had even contemplated on playing the main lead himself and that’s when Akshay showed some interest. But rather than keeping it hush hush he was screaming off the rooftops that he’d found the stars of his next film, that’s when Akshay backed out. But you never know these stars they never really can make up their minds, who knows maybe Akshay might give it another thought.”

After Blue's sinking fate, Akki might have a change of heart, pairing with Sonam, which does have a novelty. His pairing with Deepika did not work, maybe Sonam will be his lucky girl, although that idea is also too unlikely since Sonam's films have so far bombed, both with Ranbir and Abhishek- who are no longer doing any projects with her.

When StarBoxOffice contacted Kunal Kohli, he straight out denied the rumours, “It’s not true as it’s too soon to talk about my next film, there’s still a lot of work going into it.” We hope Kunal pulls his socks up soon for if Khiladi Kumar and the Masakalli girl were to be teamed up together, now that would be something indeed!

TOGETHER: PRIYANKA AND HRITHIK

After the super victory of Krrish, Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra will come together for a video for their dear friend and choreographer, Ganesh Hegde.

Ganesh Hegde’s debut album, G, released in 2005 and did pretty well. That time he had Shah Rukh Khan by his side and that helped endorse the album. Thereafter, he has gone been part of SRK’s tours and circle of friends and even choreographs his songs.

‘For his second album, he thought of getting Priyanka and Hrithik. He spoke to them and they right away agreed as they both are in town. Hrithik is only shooting Guzaarish at present and Priyanka will start Anjana-Anjani next month. Priyanka has shot her segment of the video and Hrithik will 2-3 days to complete his segment, with the perfectionist that he is. He will sport a beard in the video while Priyanka will have a funky look, particularly with her blue streaks.’

Our source continues, ‘Hrithik and Priyanka are very sweet people who always support their friends, no matter what. This is their first Indi-pop video and the superstars haven’t charged a penny for it because Ganesh is their friend and they have worked with him several times. Unlike Krrish, this time nobody will complain about Priyanka’s look as she has evolved and been styled very well. Needless to say, both Hrithik and Priyanka are natural dancers. ’

Priyanka Chopra confirmed she was part of the video and that she was thrilled about it. Ganesh’s spokesperson said that an official announcement for the video would be made later on when everything was finalized. Some of the popular songs that Ganesh has choreographed include It’s Magic from Koi Mil Gaya and Main Hoon Don from Don.

KANGANA RANAUT HARASSED BY HOOLIGANS IN LUCKNOW

No police complaint has been lodged. Kangana Ranaut, who is in Lucknow to shoot for a film, was harassed by a group of hooligans in the Kaiserbagh vicinity of the city.

Kangana is in the city with co-stars R. Madhavan and Jimi Shergil for the past 10 days to shoot for Anand L. Rai's "Tanu weds Manu".

The event took place on Sunday (Oct 18) at the Baradari building where the cast and crew were shooting a sequence for the film around 10 pm. It was a holiday, so a huge crowd, over 2,000, gathered around the location.

"It was horrible. A group of youngsters came very close to Kangana, Madhavan and Jimi and started passing lewd comments about her. Some of them also tried to touch Kangana," a crew member told IANS.

Though, the police denied the accusations.

"Keeping in view the huge gathering, we had deployed entire force of about four police stations at the Baradari. The director, however, complained that due to the crowd they were having problems in shooting as people were coming into the frames," inspector K.M. Singh of Kaiserbagh police station told IANS.

No police complaint has been lodged.

"We will surely register an FIR if anyone from the crew move toward us with a formal complaint," Singh said.

Rai, who had earlier directed the thriller "Strangers" starring Jimi and Kay Kay Menon, is scheduled to film "Tanu weds Manu" in Kanpur, Faridkot, Patiala and New Delhi in the coming days.

SALMAN’S EXPECTATIONS FROM MAMK

In view of Main Aurr Mrs Khanna was to be kept on the backburner after the spate of flops Salman was going through before Wanted, what prospect does he hold of the film.

Salman Khan had four back to back flops before Wantedbecame a huge success. His career and also that of the producer Boney Kapoor’s was on the line before the release of Prabhu Deva’s big B-town debut and thankfully Wanted went on to become the second biggest grosser in Bollywood this year. However Prem Soni’s Main Aurr MrsKhanna which is yet again another extra marital love story had been ready for a year now and it’s only because of Wanted being a mega hit is it getting to see the light of day now.

A source added, “Financiers had their doubts with Main Aurr Mrs Khanna before Wanted as the film has the same old storyline of that of a extra marital love story and it didn’t have something new to offer. Sohail Khan too hasn’t been able to create a foothold in the Industry making it even more sceptical for them to let the film release this year. However after Wanted the rest was history and they’re all trying to bank on Salman’s newfound mega superstar success.” Prem Soni however denied such rumours and stated, “The concept is completely new and fresh, the film has a lot of offer and the audiences will realise that this Oct 16th.”

Salman too has said that Main Aurr Mrs Khanna is a sweet and simple love story and masses will identify with the storyline and concept of the film. Still the source adds, “Salman would rather focus all of his attention to Vipul Shah’s London Dreams as it already has started to create a lot of buzz with him reuniting with Ajay Devgn after 9 years. Also the production value, storyline and music is also one of the many highlights of the film. And after that is Veer, which is Salman’s baby and he’s focusing all his attention to the film, so if MAMK does well, then he’d be more than happy and if not, it wouldn’t really make much of a difference to him.”

AMITABH BACHCHAN TURNS 67: HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG B

He’ll be walking the ramp at Couture Week

Amitabh Bachchan has never been busier. The Bollywood megastar, who turns 67 on Oct 11, has three films lined up for release, is hosting a popular television reality show, is to walk the ramp for a top fashion event - and has no plans to retire in the near future.

He says he'll be happy to follow in the way of legendary actor Ashok Kumar, who played strong roles even at the age of 80.

"I would disagree that actors of my age don't get important roles to play in movies. Look at Dada Muni (Ashok Kumar)...he was an example. He kept doing significant roles even till he was 80 years old," Amitabh told IANS.

"I can't be playing the lover boy anymore. So I do all those roles that suit a 67-year-old," said the film icon who has finished four decades in the Indian film industry.

At his age, Amitabh is one of the busiest actors in tinsel town. The megastar says he had finished shooting for his forthcoming films "Aladin", "Teen Patti" and "Paa" before heading to Singapore for three months.

He is now preparing to sign more projects.

"I was away with a friend of mine (Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh) who had a medical condition and I was out of the country for three months. Since I knew I wanted to be with him and that it would take some period of time for him to heal, I deliberately finished all my pending work by June," Amitabh said.

In all his forthcoming projects, Amitabh will be seen in different avatars.

In "Aladin", he will sport overgrown locks for the role of a contemporary genie, "Paa" will see him playing a child suffering from progeria, which causes premature ageing, and "Teen Patti" features him as a mathematics genius.

While "Aladin" will hit screens on Oct 30, "Paa" will release on Dec 4 and "Teen Patti", which also stars Hollywood legend Ben Kingsley, will open to audiences on Feb 12 next year.

Till then, Amitabh is making his presence felt on the small screen after three years as the host of Colors' reality show "Bigg Boss", which has celebrities staying inside a specially designed house under constant camera surveillance and no contact with the outside world.

"'Bigg Boss' was the first thing I took up (after returning from Singapore). There are many people who want to make a film with me fortunately, so I will now talk to them," he said.

The actor is also fairing well in the ad world as he emerged among the top five Indian celebrity brand endorsers in a recently conducted survey.

And he is also set to scorch the fashion runway at the HDIL India Couture Week on his birthday. He will display a creation by his favourite designer duo Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla.

SHAH RUKH, AAMIR WERE FIRST CHOICES FOR ‘LONDON DREAMS’

It was to be a Raj Kumar Santoshi project

Not many will be aware that filmmaker Raj Kumar Santoshi was about to manage the dreadful coup of getting Aamir Khan & Shah Rukh Khan together on the big screen together for the first time in “London Dream”s.

At that point, it was to be titled Rashque ('jealousy' in Urdu), which is the film's underlying sentiment. The two stars are said to have even attended joint narrations.

Following the story narration, both the actors loved the script and wanted to sleep over it before committing themselves. Santoshi is rumoured to have pursued the two superstars relentlessly and even chased alternatives like Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar, before giving up when the casting did not fructify.

As destiny would have it, Salman Khan took “London Dreams” to filmmaker Vipul A. Shah, who started afresh on the script. The former repeatedly stepped into Aamir's shoes while Ajay Devgn was roped in by Vipul Shah to step into Shah Rukh's.

This also became coup of sorts as the two stars reunited ten years after featuring together in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's smash hit, “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”.

"London Dreams" releases worldwide on October 30 and is being marketed and distributed globally by Studio 18.

WHAT MADE ABHISHEK BEHAVE RUDELY?

He’s also getting envious on sets of ‘Raavan’

We don’t know what’s bothering Abhishek Bachchan. Is it the anxiety of living under the shadow of powerful family members or the fact that his career still has not gone places despite hits like “Dostana”?

Abhishek showed his rude side at an event in Bangalore recently. During a press conference, a journo from a leading newspaper posed a question to him, which he did not like. In haste, he ordered the journo to be thrown out of the venue.

Not only that, a few hours later the female journalist got a call from Abhi’s publicist asking her to come over and give a written statement that she had been rude to the Jr. Bachchan and that it was all her fault and not Abhi’s!

In the meantime, it’s also being said that Abhi’s ‘Raavan’ co-star Ravi Kishan is making him jealous and insecure. Apparently, director Mani Ratnam is very happy with Ravi’s work and keeps praising him, which is making Abhishek sulk.

Ravi is playing Abhishek’s brother in the much-awaited film, which also stars Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Govinda.

Abhishek is banking a lot on “Raavan” and has worked very hard on his role, which he’s hoping turns out to be the best negative performance ever.

AMITABH GETS 1,207 SMSES ON BIRTHDAY

He thanks fans who waited outside his residence.

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan received about 1,207 SMSes on his 67th birthday from fans, family and relatives. He says that the cascade of messages jammed his cellphone.

"I feel blessed to have so much love and affection from others. It is the greatest debt that I shall carry to my grave and one that I shall never be able to pay back... Family and friends called me and 1207 SMSes jammed the mobile," Amitabh posted on his blog on Sunday (Oct 11) night.

Big B, as he is fondly called, also had hordes of fans waiting outside his residence to greet him on the occasion.

"It was rough from the early hours of the morning - meeting and receiving the love and affection of the hundreds that were at the gates. Moving out and driving in to our own houses was a mini riot. But the faces that slammed against the walls of the car (windows) were happy ones, animated ones and ones that merely wanted to express love," he posted.

Amitabh also apologised to those "who came with wishes; that came with a desire to meet and greet, that had through great pain and perseverance kept vigil and then lost out on an occasion to wish me."

"To the hundreds that thronged the three locations Prateeksha, Jalsa and Janak and bore the pushing and shoving of the police and the security, to them I give my gratitude and thanks for taking the trouble to show their love and adore," he added.

RANI MUKERJI MAKES TV DEBUT

She will be called 'Queen of DPL' on the show

After a string of big ticket celebrities who have taken to reality shows on the small screen, it's now actress Rani Mukerji's turn. She is set to judge Sony TV's "Rin Dance Premier League" (DPL) along with actor Arshad Warsi and dance guru Shiamak Davar.

According to the channel, Rani will add to the scale, glamour and credibility of the show that premiered on Friday (Oct 9). She will be called "Queen of DPL" on the show and will decide the fortunes of the competing teams.

While Shiamak Davar will be evaluating performances and setting the difficulty level as the competition progresses as an 'umpire' on the show, Arshad will be a ‘guest judge' for the auditions.

The show will have teams from different zones from across the country as well as abroad competing with each other. It is expected to highlight India's rich and diverse culture as each regional team will bring its own unique flavour to the performances.

Every zone will comprise of eight dancers and will be guided by their coach. Choreographers like Pappu Malu, Nagendra Prasad, Uma-Gaiti, Harshall-Vitthal, Mini Johny and Howard Rosemeyer will be donning the role of mentors.

Popular TV celebrities Eijaz Khan and Sara Khan will host the weekend show.

Produced by Cineyug, the show has already been backed by actors like Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Sohail Khan, Bipasha Basu and other celebrities like Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Sanjay Banger, Baichung Bhutia and rapper Hard Kaur.

KAREENA HAS A PROBLEM WITH KAJOL

In the hindi version of Stepmom, Kareena will have to prove her guts against Kajol.

It’s not the first time they are working together, but it’s always been like this. Ever since Kareena worked with her favourite co-star Kajol in Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, she has always held her acting skill a notch less to the experienced senior.

For her next project with Kajol, Stepmom, Kareena has been taking acting classes with the help of film director Siddharth Malhotra to brush up on her skills before she faces her idol.

‘Vishal Bharadwaj's Omkara is the only other time I have rehearsed my scenes. It was an unusual film and my role where I had to get into a certain milieu and simple character I knew nothing about needed that sort of rehearsing. In Stepmom, which is urban and very modern, I play a very normal metro-centric working girl,’ said Kareena at a press conference recently. It is a well known fact that Malhotra's film is inspired by the 1998 hit drama Stepmom, in which Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts share the same man- in an unusual love triangle. In the hindi version, Arjun Rampal is the lucky man to be romancing both these stunning ladies - Kajol and Kareena.

Reportedly Kareena has been buying time out of the rehearsals for a song she began shooting with Aamir Khan for 3 Idiots. Kareena is glad that she is playing a normal girl, away from all the glam associated with her name. ‘I walk, talk, dress like an ordinary working girl. I'll be using no makeup,’ she exclaims.

About her look in the film, she says, ‘I couldn't cut my hair as planned because of continuity clashes. And I didn't want to cut my long hair. But I'm going for a new hairstyle.’ Ace designer Manish Malhotra is giving her warm earth tones to bring out a simple personality in her character. She will be seen wearing a lot of muted tones.

The shooting of Stepmom is to begin this month end. Kareena cannot stop gushing about her favourite co-star ‘She's always been one of my favourite actresses. We worked together in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. We were sisters then, now we have a lot of friction in this film and it will be something else.’

We can’t wait to see them back together, they do have a crackling chemistry.

HRITHIK IS THE NEW KAMINA!

Buzz is Vishal Bhardwaj has lastly signed on Hrithik Roshan for his next film.

News is making the rounds that Hrithik Roshan has finally signed on the dotted line for Vishal Bhardwaj’s next determined project. Right after Kaminey, Vishal began work on his next project and zeroed down on Hrithik for the lead. But Hrithik who had signed Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Guzarish was too busy preparing himself for the part and had put Vishal’s film on the backburner. Sanjay’s film is said to be based on Hollywood film The Prestige starring Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale and Hrithik plays a paraplegic in the film. Hrithik has by now begun preparing himself for the role and was accurately moving around in a wheelchair for a month to get into character.

While Sanjay’s film is based on The Prestige, a source close to Vishal discloses details about his next, “Vishal has been waiting for Hrithik to give the go ahead for the film for quite a while now. Hrithik was anxious whether he’d be able to work for Vishal and Sanjay’s film at the same time as both the films would be physically and mentally draining for him. Vishal’s film is loosely based on The Departed which was directed by Martin Scorsese and starred Leonardo Dicaprio and Matt Damon. Departed was in itself a remake of the Hollywood flick Infernal Affairs about how the mob and the cops face a similar situation, unable to comprehend the terrible consequences that await them. Vishal known for his gritty, dark cinema instantly connected with the storyline and is only going to get down and dirty with the script. He is still to finalise on the mob boss and the third lead and a few of the other pre-production details.”

The Departed received innumerable number of Awards and is held as one of Scorsese's best. Whether Hrithik would play the part of mob iformant Matt Damon or the cop informant Leonardo Dicaprio is yet to be known. Still Hrithik has already proved that no one can play the smooth criminal as better as him and we can only wait and watch whether the genius Bhardwaj plans on making Hrithik the next most wanted kamina or not!

ASIN REFUSES FARAH’S FILM

Generally, Farah Khan gets what she wants. From shooting Chale Jaise Hawaein in Main Hoon Na in only one constant sequence to uniting the who’s who of Bollywood in Deewangi Deewangi in Om Shanti Om. Now, Asin has wrecked her track record.

Farah Khan and Asin got friendly when she appeared on Farah’s chat show, Tere Mere Beach Mein, and have been in touch ever since. Asin has proved her courage as an actress in Ghajini and her South Indian films and has a big release coming up in the form of London Dreams. She has an Indo-international martial arts film and her endorsement contracts.

A source tells us, ‘Farah thought Asin was a appropriate choice for the female lead in Happy New Year and approached her for the role, but Asin courteously turned her down citing date issues. Asin’s behaviour is quite odd considering she was keen on working with SRK, and when the opportunity knocked on her door, she turned it down. It’s not that she didn’t have good role because in Farah’s films, the actresses have as much of a role as the heroes. Deepika had a double role in OSOand Main Hoon Na redefined Amrita Rao and Sushmita Sen’s careers and is the most memorable film of their careers. There is a huge market for Farah Khan’s masala films as OSO is one of the biggest hits of all time and Main Hoon Na did really well too.’

He further adds, ‘Happy New Year will go on the floors by the end of this year and doing the film would have helped Asin gain entry into SRK’s powerful camp. She isn’t even friends with Salman Khan any more. When established actresses are keen on working with Farah Khan, it is bizarre why she turned down the film when she was the first choice for it. In India there isn’t really a market for martial arts films. Look at how Drona, CC2C and Asoka have fared. Rubbing Farah Khan the wrong way is specialized hara-kiri, especially for a newcomer.’

Let us hope Asin realizes that she will lose out on a very important opportunity if she turns down the film and it would be wise to cancel her other assignments to make time for Farah’s film. If she doesn’t do Happy New Year, it will be another feather in the hat of Kareena, Deepika or Priyanka.

WHY KATRINA LOVES RANBIR

Katrina Kaif’s New York re-energized the box office. She will be seen in full-blown roles in two films this year, Ajab Prem Ki Ghajab Kahani and De Dana Dan and a special appearance in Blue. The beautiful actress tells us about her latest film, director Rajkumar Santoshi and working with Ranbir Kapoor who is the next big thing.

“It’s been a great honour to work with Rajji. I have done most of my films with Akshay and Salman. I asked them who is the best director for an actor to work with and both of them answered that it was Rajkumar Santoshi. I had an amazing time working with him. I had a great time shooting the songs in Turkey and am grateful to Ahmed Khan for the unbelievable choreography and Pritam for the superb music, as always,’ smiled Katrina.

Katrina has usually played the glam doll in most of her films except New York and, in APKGK her character seems to be more than just a pretty face. How does she feel about that? ‘I think I am very privileged that I keep getting fresh new chances with every film to better myself as an actress. In my opinion, Rajji has s reputation of not being just a fantastic director but also a fantastic director for actors and their performances. He has taught me a lot about improvisation. He has given my character and persona a new angle. It’s not anything like you have seen in New York or Singh is Kinng. It’s a completely different interpretation of Jenny, my character. Ranbir and I followed his guidance. We were always on the sets because being around Rajji, because you get to understand how he envisions the scene. Before every shot, he would enact my part and then enact my part. And we both would just stare at him in amazement. Then the two of us would have a competition as to who can copy him best. We just needed to follow his direction,’ she replied.

She and Ranbir are being touted as the best-looking on-screen pair of the year. About working with Ranbir Kapoor, she said, ‘He is a very talented actor and a very sweet guy. He is always lively and he fills the set with energy and interest. He makes sure everybody is having a good time. He is a positive force to be around. He is unbelievable actor and dancer.’

WHAT IS SANJAY DUTT DOING IN ALADIN?

Sanjay Dutt didn't require much believable or cajoling to come on board for Aladin.

The moment he heard the film's concept, genre and they way it was imagined to be brought on screen, he agreed to do the film pronto. He was annoyed about the film going on floors. His character is like that of evil magician Jafar in the Disney version of Aladin.

Says a source associated to the film, "Sanju baba actually became quite childlike when he was narrated the concept of Aladin. He hasn't worked in a film belonging to this genre before, the kind that involves fairytale elements embellished in a narrative that is set in today's times. The legend of Aladin and Genie is known global and Sanju baba didn't require much thinking to be a part of the project. As a fun loving villain, who was capable of showing the mean side of his at any given moment, the character was tailor-made for him and he connected to that instantly when the part was explained to him."

By the way, it was Amitabh Bachchan himself who first had a word with Sanjay Dutt about his role of Ringmaster in Aladin.

Confirms Sujoy Ghosh, "Yes, after I had an elaborate narration of Aladin with Mr. Bachchan, we were discussing who could play the role of Ringmaster. We agreed that it had to be Dutt saab and I was supposed to contact him the next day. Though, to my surprise, before I could speak to Dutt saab, Mr. Bachchan had already spoken to him. When I met him, he mockingly pulled me for not speaking to him directly. I explained that I had all the right intentions to do so but didn't have any clue that Mr. Bachchan would himself take the first step."

Kicked about the entire idea, "I still remember it was year 2006," Sujoy gets nostalgic here, "Dutt saab was so excited about donning the hat of Ringmaster. Pun anticipated."

Sanjay Dutt had a condition though before saying yes. "Yes, he didn't want anyone to fiddle around with his look," laughs Sujoy, "His only condition was that he wanted the moustache of Ringmaster to be kept intact. Of course, we had no reason not to agree."

Aladin releases on October 30.

IS ACID FACTORY A REMAKE?

Like most of his films that are lifted off foreign films, Sanjay Gupta’s Acid Factory (he has produced the film with Mumbai Mantra) is a remake of an American film.

The film in question is Simon Brand’s Unknown which released in 2006. The film stars Bridget Moynahan (of I, Robot and The Recruit fame) as the only female among six guys, which included Greg Kinnear (As Good as It Gets) and James Caviezel (The Passion of the Christ ). The story of the film is that five men wake up inured in a storehouse. They are tied to a chair and suffering from amnesia. They don’t know something about each other. The film is full of twists and turns that keep you gripped from start to finish. The film went overlooked.

Acid Factory also has a similar premise of five men who wake up in an acid factory. They don’t know each other and can’t remember anything. They somehow get out of the factory and start putting their lives together. Dia Mirza is the only girl among five guys.

When contacted, director Suparn Verma said, “I have heard that it is a remake of Ocean’s 11, Saw, Hostel and even Star Wars (!), so I have no idea. Dilip Garetkar, who wrote Phoonk came to me with the idea and I loved it. We evolved the screenplay and had fun writing it and shooting the film. I hope it’s a hit. I have a gut feeling that it will be. Like every other film’s cast and crew, we have worked really hard on our film.”

It is up to you to decide whether Acid Factory is a remake or not.

Here is a list of Sanjay Gupta films that have been remakes

Musafir: Oliver Stone’s U-Turn

Kaante: Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs, Bryan Singer’s The Usual Suspects,Michael Mann’s Heat and Ringo Lam’s City on Fire.

Zinda: Korean film called Old Boy

ASIN’S LONDON DREAMS

South sensation Asin made a smashing debut in Bollywood with Aamir Khan and from then on there has been no looking back for the doe-eyed beauty.

Asin will now share screen space with Ajay Devgn and Salman Khan in one of the most highly probable musical film of the year London Dreams. The multi-budgeted film has Salman and Ajay reuniting after almost 10 years and the audiences are waiting to see their onscreen camaraderie again. After the smashing success of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Ajay and Salman haven’t finally got a chance to work together and director Vipul Shah promises fireworks.

While Vipul is all praise for his multi-talented leading male stars, he is in awe of his leading lady as well. Asin who had producers queuing for a chance to work with her after her debut film Ghajini was signed by Vipul forLondon Dreams well before her maiden venture. In London Dreams, Asin plays Priya, a young music fan who joins Arjun's (Ajay Devgan) rock band in London.

‘I had seen Asin in a couple of big South films and really liked her work. I was looking for someone who could essay a beautiful Iyer girl, adept at both classical and western dance, and yet look like she's been born and bred in London. I signed her even before the first promo of Ghajini came on television. Taking a newcomer opposite two big stars was a risk but I was confident of her and followed my instinct. When Ghajini clicked, I knew I had made the right decision.’ Vipul spoke of his leading lady.

Asin was even offered Wanted but the role eventually went to Ayesha, Salman Khan had said, “Ayesha was meant for Wanted and Asin for London Dreams, they both defend their roles and were meant to be a part of these films only.”

After her lively performance in Ghajini, we cant wait to see Asin light up the big screen in London Dreams.

ASH WAS NEVER MEANT TO BE IN GOWARIKER'S NEXT

Actress and filmmaker deny reports

Aishwarya Rai has refuted rumours that she was to play the female lead opposite her husband Abhishek Bachchan in Ashutosh Gowariker's next "Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se". The actress says that the director knew about her packed agenda and the discussion never took place.

Recent media reports suggested that Aishwarya was to play the lead role before Asin was finalised for the film opposite actor Abhishek. But both - the actress and filmmaker - deny it.

"I don't have the dates right now as my schedule diary is super packed. This film ('Khelein Hum...') starts next month. So there never was that possibility," Aishwarya, who played Rajput princess Jodhabai in Gowariker's historical epic "Jodhaa Akbar", told IANS.

"And since Ashu (Ashutosh Gowariker) is a close friend and his main lead is my husband, they obviously knew it. So the discussion didn't even arise," she added.

Gowariker confirmed it saying: "I had not approached her (Aishwarya) for 'Khelein Hum...'. Aishwarya, for me, belongs to a fairytale. She is a typical princess and by far one of the finest actresses we have.

"But we need to plan things in advance. She is very professional and hence I would never like to upset her schedules in any way. I'm very happy with the coming together of Abhishek and Asin."

"Khelein Hum..." will feature Abhishek as freedom fighter Surya Sen, who was the chief architect of anti-British freedom movement in Chittagong, now in Bangladesh.

This will be Gowariker's second period film after "Lagaan".

NO TAKERS FOR ‘KAUN BANEGA CROREPATI’?

Big B and Shah Rukh have refused to host the show.

It had altered Amitabh Bachchan’s life forever, but today the show has no takers. Yes, we are talking about “Kaun Banega Crorepati”.

The show gave a new let out of life to Big B’s career numerous years ago. It had marked his enormously successful comeback after a major slump in his career. Bachchan’s fame only soared thereafter.

Today, it’s the show which needs rescuing.

It seems that, producer Siddharth Basu is running from door to door to find some takers as he readies for the fourth season of the game show. Both Shah Rukh Khan and Big B have frankly refused to host the show. Even leading channels like Sony, Star, Zee and Colors have said that they have enough on their hands and are not ready to air the show.

Will this mark an end to KBC, which was at one point of time the biggest attraction on Star Plus?

The relationship between KBC and Bachchan soured when Big B left the show due to some illness. He could not shoot the remaining episodes and later SRK was roped in. Though, Bachchan settled the matter, he actually made up his mind never to work on this show again.

SALLU SURPRISED US? NAH

Superstar fails to live up to commitment.

Salman Khan came into Dubai last night (Oct 6) for a Being Human event. At the same time, he projected to promote his approaching film, “Main Aurr Mrs Khanna”, so some interviews with local media were lined up.

First, we were told he and bro Sohail were having visa issues. Then we were informed they would speak to the media, but only post 11.30pm. The brothers would come straight in from the airport for their interviews at a posh five-star hotel.

Cut to date: Their flight was postponed. When Salman landed at 11.15pm, he said he didn’t feel like giving interviews. We appreciate. He was suffering from jet lag, flying in a-l-l the way from Mumbai.

Were we astonished that he said no to interviews despite keeping journos waiting till that late? Not really! We would have been surprised if Salman Khan had kept his word to the media. That’s so not him!

AMRITA RAO COVERS MAXIM OCT. ISSUE

Amrita Rao covers Maxim this month. The actress clearly hasn't got over Vivaah and her Poonam persona; and neither have her fans.

She plays safe, even sidestepping questions on when she'll sport a bikini with a "My dad used to tell me that a woman should wear a bikini the day she has a body to show off it.

So I'm guessing the day my dad gives me the green signal, I will."

And then following it up with a watching: "A bikini is just a two-piece suit that one wears to the beach. It's not a bait to get more advertising and fans." Really? Seems to work for other actresses!

AAMIR KHAN IN AIDS FILM

In Priyadarshan’s new film, Aamir will be tackling the serious issue without being preachy.

Always one to put his best foot forward when it comes to educating the country, Aamir Khan will soon star in a Priyadarshan film on AIDS. ‘My next film is a meaningful and realistic take on AIDS. I have narrated the story to Aamir and he really liked it, though I have not presented him a bound script yet, Priyadarshan spoke to the press yesterday.

South Indian actor Mohan Lal, who is a Priyadarshan favourite, will also feature in the film. Priyadarshan added that when he came up with the idea of the film in 2008, he was considering Akshay, but things have changed now. With Kanchivaram being launched all over the globe, Priyadarshan thinks its time he combined the element of entertainment with a serious message. He wants to strike a balance between the two and prove it to himself that he is capable of making a success of it.

His comedy, De Dana Dhan, starring Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, Katrina Kaif, Paresh Rawal, Neha Dhupia, Sameera Reddy, Asrani and Johny Lever, is in post production. Aamir is not the only one on Priyadarshan’s wish list; he wants to work with Big B too. ‘I have worked with Mr. Bachchan on advertisements but I want to shoot a feature film with him. It would be a great experience,’ he concludes.

That shouldn’t be tough we think; after Aamir, even Amitabh would grant.