I DIDN'T WANT TO WIN ANY BEAUTY PAGEANT: DEEPIKA PADUKONE

Model-turned-actress Deepika Padukone says she always wanted to carve a niche for herself in the glamour industry but without taking part in a beauty pageant, unlike many of her colleagues.

"I had set up an objective to become a model without winning any beauty pageants," Deepika told choreographer-turned-director Farah Khan on STAR Plus' "Tere Mere Beach Mein".

But the actress didn't give any precise reason for her aversion to taking part in beauty contests.

A lot of Indian actresses including Aishwarya Rai, Sushmita Sen, Celina Jaitley, Lara Dutta and Dia Mirza joined Bollywood after earning fame through national and international beauty pageants.

A FLOORED FAN GETS HUGGED BY RANBIR KAPOOR TWICE

Pari Gandhi, a student at the Malini Kishore College in Juhu, (she comes from Rajkot, Gujarat) bunked her college, on hearing from a friend that her favourite actor Ranbir Kapoor was going to be there at an event in the city.

The day turned out to be like a dream, and she got to kiss her idol, and even got two hugs from him. Ranbir was attending a CNN-IBN contest for his next release, Wake Up Sid.

Pari says, "I think this was one of those rare occasions when I sneaked out from class and bunked college. But I had to meet Ranbir Kapor. It's been one of my dreams to see him in person. My mom and I are huge fans of his and have watched both his releases.

My mom loves his and thinks he looks like my brother Pawan. In fact, we are all planning to go and watch Wake Up Sid as Ranbir's character appears to resemble my brother a lot - lazy, can't tie his own shoes, etc."

At the event, Pari walked up to Ranbir and told him, "I know Deepika is your girlfriend and she won't like it, but I want to be your girlfriend." She even proposed to him in front of the crowds and he told her, "You can be my girlfriend for today" and hugged her.

Pari, who took part in a dancing contest, continues, "When I first saw him, I almost swooned. He is so good-looking! He mingled with my friends comfortably and was at ease. I told him that that if he liked my performance, he had to hug me again. I didn't want to perform but the temptation of getting another hug from him was tempting, so I did. He hugged me - obviously, he liked my performance."

Not surprisingly, she doesn't think he makes a cute pair with his girlfriend Deepika Padukone, "I don't think they look good together. I am jealous of Deepika," concludes the fan, who has Ranbir's posters on my bedroom walls and cupboards. "I wasn't feeling well that day and my voice had gone or I would have even sung for Ranbir."

DEEPIKA WITNESSED A SHOOTOUT IN LONDON FROM CLOSE QUARTERS

Deepika Padukone was in the middle of a shootout in London recently. The actress is currently shooting for Sajid Khan's Housefull there. During a shopping fling with a friend on the New Bond Street, the OSO girl was witness to chaos in a cops and murder drama.

A source reveals, "Deepika was walking with her friend and they entered a store. All they heard the sounds of ambulances and police cars zipping past the store. The actress and her friend were wondering whether to stay put, or step out of the store when the owner of the shop alerted them about the shootout in the similar lane.

"The store owner advised the girls to slip out the back exit, as it would be safer. There was too much hullabaloo in the area but they managed to jump into a cab and reach the hotel. On her way back, she saw the area where the shootout took place and realised how close she was to the scene of crime."

The London police had sealed off the narrow alley where the shoot out took place and there was some blood on the streets.

WOMEN FIND AKSHAY STRONG, REAL & SIMPLY SUPER

Brazilian beauty Bruna Abdullah, actresses Rupali Ganguly, Nauheed Cyrusi and VJ Anushka Manchanda are all ga-ga over Akshay Kumar.

No, they don't have a defeat on him, but say the Bollywood star was an "inspiring and stimulating" host for the second version of adventure reality show "Khatron Ke Khiladi - Level 2".

All of them are participants on the show and feel Akshay motivated them to push their limits to achieve tasks and often eased a tough condition by cracking jokes.

"Akshay was the best host probable for this show. If I wasn't able to do a task easily, he used to encourage me. Even if any of us backed out of a task, he would give us plenty of pep talks and used to ask us to drive our limits. He was a super teacher," Rupali Ganguly, who was previous seen on reality show "Big Boss", told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

"Khatron Ke Khiladi - Level 2" has 13 celebrity women, including Mandira Bedi, Shweta Salve, Rosa Catalano, Sushma Reddy, Carol Gracias and Shonali Nagrani among others and each of them has a male partner and they fight with each other to win Rs.5 million as prize money.

The show was shot in Cape Town and will air on Colors in September.

Nauheed Cyrusi, best remembered as the "Piya basanti re" girl, says Akshay was a steady support system for her.

"I knew that Akshay Kumar, the big star, was going to host the show. I didn't know what to expect from him since I'd never met him before. But when I met him, he was so real. He helped me a great deal and was super amicable," said Nauheed.

"He was a complete support system for all of us there. In a task, the last few seconds are very vital and it was then that he really confident each of us. He used to say 'Come on! Come on' and that was motivating," she added.

For Brazilian beauty Bruna Abdullah, who was seen in an item number in Anubhav Sinha's "Cash", Akshay was an inspiration.

"He (Akshay) was wonderful. He would do the stunts himself first and show us the safest way to perform them. He didn't let us give up on tasks easily at all and used to say that we won't ever get a chance to put ourselves through those stunts again," said Bruna, who Akshay teasingly referred to as 'Bru'.

"He was also extra sensitive to Rosa and me as we didn't realize much of Hindi. So he would go out of his way to clear our doubts," she added.

VJ and singer Anushka was also all praise for the 41-year-old actor.

"Akshay was really funny. He used to talk at casual and eased out the most complicated tasks for us. He would tell us this is the best chance to do crazy things. At times, he would be stern and warn us if a certain task was tough. He would say 'This is not a laughing matter' to prudence us," she said.

Said Shonali, a former supermodel: "At first Akshay was very strict but slowly he became extremely supportive. He not only encouraged us but also helped us with strategies to strengthen our confidence levels. He always stood by us and gave us a pep talk whenever we were down. Nobody better than Akshay Kumar as a host for the show."

Actress Nethra Raghuraman had won the first season of the show, which was aired last year.

'LOVE AAJ KAL' IS THIRD BIG HIT OF THE YEAR

Its occupancy has been between 90-100 percent.

Love is endless. Ask Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone whose recently released "Love Aaj Kal" has sent the cash registers buzzing, raking in Rs.8 crore (Rs.80 million) on its opening day. And experts say the movie has incredible box office latent.

"The response to the film has been amazing and we have had jam-packed houses over the weekend. While we had occupancy of 98 percent on the first day (Friday), the weekend has been house full with 100 percent occupancy. It's an enjoyable movie and worth watching once," Amit Awasthi, manager programming and operations of Spice Cinemas, Noida told IANS.

"We are running 25 shows for the movie in a day and have already collected Rs.16,56,000 over the first weekend. In fact, we've already sold 2500 tickets even today. The movie is going strong and is predictable to get more business with Raksha bandhan (August 5) coming and is going to stay on until 'Kaminey' releases on August 14," he added.

A source from PVR Cinemas echoed the same response and said: "The reaction to the movie is very good and people have really liked the movie. We are expecting more footfalls coming in the way it has been over the weekend."

Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the movie has been co-produced by Saif and his friend Dinesh Vijan along with Sunil A. Lulla under their banners Illuminati Films and Eros International respectively.

Straddling across two different eras - the film is about the spirit of love that never changes despite time and space differences.

Made at a budget of around Rs.48 crore (Rs.480 million), it released across 1800 screens worldwide. It is the third A-lister hit of 2009 after "New York" and "Kambakkht Ishq" though the latter was panned by critics in terms of content.

Also starring Rishi Kapoor, Shweta Gulati and Rahul Khanna, the film is the launch vehicle of Brazilian model Giselle Monteiro.

"'Love Aaj Kal' is a super hit movie. The occupancy has been somewhere between 90-100 percent bringing in good collections, which is very remarkable. It's a simple and romantic movie and a must watch for a family," said Yogesh Raizada, corporate head (cinemas), Wave cinemas.

"We are running 11-15 shows across different properties and the movie is going to stay anywhere close to two-three weeks. Moreover with the Rakhi holiday coming in, families are surely going to bring in footfalls considering the storyline appeal of the film," he added.

In terms of A-listers, "Love Aaj Kal" has no contender until Shahid Kapur-Priyanka Chopra starrer "Kaminey" hits the screen.

DEEPIKA LASTLY GETS TIME FOR RANBIR

Deepika Padukone was on a endorsement spree for her latest film recently. But what brought the glow back to her pale face (post malaria) is that she got to spend a few stolen moments with beau Ranbir Kapoor. Deepika, whose Indian clothesline at a suburban store is also creating waves, was persistently being told by one and all that she should dress in Indian attire more often because she looks desi. Will have to check what Ranbir has to say about that!

STEP INTO THE RING WITH AKSHAY

It’s Enter The Dragon all over again... but this time in India, with Bollywood’s martial arts superstar Akshay Kumar kickstarting the first open invitational karate championship in the country.

The idea is to promote the fighting arts and sports among Indian youth. This has been amazing that Shihan Mehul Vora, a karate instructor for 27 years and an international teacher for 15, could only dream about until the actor stepped into the picture. In his honour, the event is being called the Akshay Kumar Invitational Open.

Akshay, who is known for performing magnificent action scenes in his films, is going to sponsor this karate championship in which over 2,000 fighters from across the country will take part. Vora, who will be the chief technical director and organiser, said a team of world class referees, judges and coaches is expected to join them. And international grandmasters and observers from Japan, Holland and Italy will add their weight to the event.

Akshay is, in a way, taking a leaf out of the book of Hollywood martial arts actors like Chuck Norris and Don Wilson who returned to karate and assisted in sponsoring tournaments after triumphant film careers. The Khiladi, who is at present in London packaging up Sajid Nadiadwala’s film Housefull, said he is excited about the championship. Not so long ago, he presented a seven-part, mini-series called the Seven Deadly Arts for a foreign television channel that was on martial arts from dissimilar countries that he is familiar with.

In the series, Akshay played master and learner as he introduced viewers to Shaolin kung fu, karate, taekwondo, aikido, muay Thai, capoeira and kalaripayattu. Acquainted himself with taekwondo, karate and muay Thai, Akshay sparred with practitioners of these art forms while playing student as he learned from masters of the other four arts. “I owe all I am to martial arts,” Akshay had said then. “My passion for it goes back to my early teens when I went to Bangkok to master them. My father insisted I learn martial arts when I was nine. Even today, I practise for two hours. It disciplines me. Martial arts is not just about violence and fighting, but about the power to change your life.”

SAIF KAREENA IN NO RUSH FOR SHAADI

Kareena Kapoor has been spending a lot of worth time with Saif Ali Khan. “I’ve been living in and out of cases. It’s so frenzied,” she says.

Bebo was with Saif in Jaipur for a day and a half, then Delhi where he attended the first performance with his heroine, but she stayed back in the hotel room. Her reason is simple: She didn’t want to steal Saifu’s thunder.

Kareena also spent a day with Saif's parents the Nawab of Pataudi, Mansoor Ali Khan and his mother Sharmila Tagore. Though, both Saif and Kareena are dead against this steady implication that the only thing discussed at such family interactions is their marriage. While it is deeply recognized that Saifina will finally tie the knot, both are not in favour of shaadi talk all the time.

“I got married the first time around when I was 21,” says Saif adding, “because everyone around felt it was so cool for me to be married. This time around neither Bebo nor I are going to rush into anything. We’re together, and that’s wonderful enough.” Well the marriage pundits had better learn to hold their horses...

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.

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.

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!

‘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.

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.

‘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.

'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.

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?”!

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.

Censor loves Love Aaj Kal kisses

Unlike Kambakkht Ishq, in which Kareena Kapoor was on a smooching spree, the censor board protected the kisses in Love Aaj Kal saying they weren’t as vulgar. Deepika Padukone herself had spoken of the hyped lip locks in addition to said, "I think it was required in the motion picture. I believed in the role and keeping that in mind I have been able to perform better. We have all moved way ahead. I mean how long are we disappearing to show flowers or birds tweeting for the duration of a kissing scene?"

While the Censor Board complete director Imtiaz Ali cut just one prospect in the motion picture along with giving it a UA official document, Imtiaz said his movie was an absolute family performer. “Nobody will feel reserved watching Love Aaj Kal. No one will be uncertain walking into the movie with his family. The marvelous scenes are a part of the promos as well. In one scene, Saif is shown as if he is tiresome to hold Deepika’s butt in addition to in another, there is a bold kissing prospect in the car. My dispute is that audiences are in reality smart. They pretty much see the meaning of the movie maker and make up their mind to watch the movie for that reason.” He explained.

Regional Officer of the Censor Board, Vinayak Azad, said, “There are concerning five kisses in the movie, but they are not heavy-duty kissing scenes as such. They are much more toned down than what we encompass seen in other movies. We ask a sight to be cut only when there it’s a long-drawn-out kissing scene, but in Love Aaj Kal they are attractive pecks on the lips.”