KAREENA DESIRES SWISS LOVE NEST

Kareena Kapoor has secret plans.

And they are grand, obviously. What might seem great for lesser worldly is not good sufficient for Bollywood’s reining diva.

She wrinkles her pleasing nose and says, “By the year-end, I hope I can buy my own house in Switzerland.’’ The actress is anxious that Mumbai offers little privacy to beau Saif Ali Khan and her. “We find it hard to go out clubbing or even for dinner because there is hardly any place that is truly private,’’ she regrets.

She says on most evenings, when they aren’t shooting, the couple stays indoors and watches television or soaks into a movie of their choice. “It’s getting kind of claustrophobic,’’ Kareena explains. She’s resolute to work harder than ever now and make sure the extra bucks that she makes will go towards her dream home in the Alps. As to how she will control flying across continents to juggle work and pleasure, Kareena says, “I have been giving it serious thought. If Johnny Depp can stay in Paris and work in Los Angeles, then of course I can stay in Switzerland for three months a year and work in Mumbai or wherever it is that I am required to be.’’

As of today, Kareena is wrapping up Karan Johar’s Qurban with Saif at a uptown Mumbai studio, and then flying to America for a short vacation. In keeping with her position of the No 1 Bollywood heroine, she has her diary chalked out for the next six months. September has been reserved for working on those ‘abs’ and some heavy-duty physical training so she can flaunt it all in Agent Vinod.

“Lots of exhilarating work is happening,’’ she beams. “In October Karan’s Stepmom with Kajol will begin providing me the emotional sustenance I’m looking for in a role, then Agent Vinod starts. Here I have the break to do some kickass stunts, like Angelina Jolie in Mr & Mrs Smith.”

December will mark the release of Raju Hirani’s Three Idiots with Aamir Khan, the most hyped film of the year. Shaking, Kareena says, “Somewhere I’m a little girl who is still afraid of the expectations from each of my films. But I’m also very excited.’’

Films apart, the grapevine gup is that she’s launching her own label in January.

“I have only just begun talks with an international team on introducing my personal clothes line like Victoria Beckham. My look in Kambakkht Ishq has gone down well with the fashionistas and hence this talk of launching my own label. There is little else I can say about this now because it’s in the influential stage.’’

'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!

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.

‘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.

KAREENA KAPOOR: NO WEDDING PLANS FOR 2 YEARS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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?”!

I'M PLANNING TO CUT MY HAIR, SAYS KAREENA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DEEPIKA PADUKONE IS DOWN WITH THE MALARIAL FEVER

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

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

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

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

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

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.”

Bebo censors sexy sight with Saif

Kareena Kapoor as well as Saif Ali Khan has allegedly shot an artistic love-making progression in Karan Johar’s Qurbaan that involves more physical exposure along with intimacy than perhaps the actress’ bowdlerization instincts allow.

Now, she intends asking director Rensil D’Silva to delete one scene from that succession in which her bare back is visible.

There is a point beyond which Kareena won’t go for any motion picture maker. And ever in view of the fact that Saif and she filmed the progression, she has been wondering what both sets of parents might think on seeing in. “We are actors along with can’t be coy after long-suffering a movie on a bold subject like Qurbaan. I’ve done kissing scenes previous. But the love-making scene is unambiguous by my benchmark. It comes at a central stage in the recitation. And Saif complete sure I was contented,” said the actress.

Kareena is a favorite of both, the producer in addition to director, in addition to it’s possible that Karan in addition to Rensil might pay attention to her and have the bare back prospect removed. The viewers will be the loser. Ah well, there’s until the end of time Kambakkht Ishq in case you want to know what Kareena’s back looks like!

Ranbir requires a nose job

In his latest movie, we hear Ranbir requirements to look down a hooked nose.

So his managerial has been pleading by means of him to go under the knife right away. But Ranbir is obstinate that his hooked nose is very well by him and so be supposed to be for the spectators too.

Ranbir suffers from a deviated septum, a moderately common olfactory problem where the bone bridging the two nostrils is deviated. Ranbir necessities to lecture to this issue by the way of a surgery. But Ranbir refuses to get it done.

Of the elongated list of B-town folk who’ve disappeared under the knife to get the just the thing pout in addition to the wrinkle free smile, Ranbir sure comes across as a change, determinedly refusing to be a part of the makeup surgery contingent. This, even when the operation won’t just enhance his looks, but will help him take breaths better too.

A friend reveals, “Ranbir has had a deviated septum since childhood. ENT specialists have advised him to undergo septuplets. But he has refused and is adamant in relation to not getting it done. He has until the end of time been a stubborn guy, once he has refused something, he won’t budge.”

Apparently, his parents too have been influence him to get the minor nose surgical procedure done in addition to by now, given up. Ranbir isn’t frightened of surgeries, he says, but doesn’t want the shape of his nose to be misrepresented. “I would rather have a warped nose than a misrepresented one,” Ranbir told a friend once.

Bebo supporter says it’s in blood

The attractive Kareena Kapoor has just conventional a letter in the mail in black and white in blood by a preoccupied fan. So far, he only expresses the desire to meet her, having fallen for the actress’ drop-dead attractive looks in Kambakkht Ishq. But, reading sandwiched between the lines, it appears the fan has been maintenance tabs on Bollywood’s No 1 actress for a while.

Kareena, of route, is used to commerce with all kinds of fans, but the letter has made her more alert to strangers around her. She has declined to take any action alongside the letter-writer because, as a celebrity, she appreciates their feelings and is appreciative to fans.

But she is also scratchy when people become fanatic as well as obsessive about her. Chhote Nawab Saif Ali Khan, who is recognized to be ferociously defensive of his lady love, has not reacted as yet to the blood letter.

Kareena replaces Bipasha in 'Race 2'

Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan was so keen to revitalize the "Race" magic with Abbas-Mustan that he has influenced the producers to cable them in as directors. He reveals that girlfriend Kareena Kapoor will also characteristic in the movie.

"They recognize the pulse of the plot.’Race' was a fast-paced action-adventure caper. Not too many motion picture makers in Bollywood would've done such a wonderful job of it," Saif told.

"Yes, Kareena will be part of 'Race 2'. We're yet to flesh out the details. But 'Race 2' has to be better in addition to larger than 'Race'. Otherwise no point in making it," he added.

Bipasha Basu's temperament has been written out of the typescript to make way for Kareena.

Produced by Tips Industries Ltd, "Race", which also had Akshaye Khanna, Anil Kapoor plus Katrina Kaif, curved out to be one of the big hits of 2008. But for the continuation, Ramesh in addition to Kumar Taurani were not keen to have Abbas-Mustan on board as directors.