We have had South Indian stars doing Bollywood films and vice versa. Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Bachchan is reportedly planning to do a couple of Kollywood films. The stunner is no stranger to Tamil having debuted in Mani Ratnam’s Iruvar in 1997. She was raw debutant then. Today, she is a sophisticated star and one of the Bollywood's top heroines.
The actress has come full circle since those times. After almost a decade, two of Aishwarya’s upcoming projects will have Tamil versions. Raavan and Robot will be dubbed in Tamil as Ravana and Endhiran respectively. These are her most ambitious Kollywood ventures so far, though she has done films like Jeans and Kandukondain Kandukondain.
In Raavan, she teams up with hubby Abhishek and mentor Ratnam while in Robot, she will be seen with Rajinikanth. A Tamil coach tutored her on the language and diction for Raavan. She wooed everyone by dubbing for her own lines. She also got the tone and accent right! For Robot, it was Rajini himself who gave her lessons. A source revealed that Ash is a fast learner. Though she found it difficult at first, she was able to rattle off lengthy dialogues with ease!
This has made the diva more confident about doing Tamil projects. She loves Tamil films as they are technically and script-wise very rich. When asked about it, she stated that she has to understand the dialogues before delivering them. She dislikes mugging dialogues without knowing what she is saying. So she made special efforts to learn the nuances of Tamil before embarking on these projects. The results are there for everyone to see! Vannakam anyone?
Showing posts with label aAishwarya Rai. Show all posts
Showing posts with label aAishwarya Rai. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Sunday, October 25, 2009
It's payback time for Aishwarya Rai
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's business manager of 12 years - Hari Singh - is making a movie revolving around the story of a war widow and After Hrs has learnt that Ash is helping him out by doing a special cameo in the movie without charging a single penny. It's Ash's way of giving back to Hari Singh who has been by her side as she grew from a beauty queen to one of the most recognised Bollywood stars in the world.
The yet untitled movie is set to be directed by Jagmohan Mundhra who earlier directed Ash in Provoked. In Hari Singh's film, Ash is supposed to play the character of a lawyer who makes an appearance at the end of the movie - a courtroom climax - to make a case for the war widow.
Says Jagmohan, "Hari Singh approached me to direct a film that tells the emotional and heartrending tale of a war widow, and I have agreed to do it. Ash has a special appearance in the film and it will certainly be the USP of the movie. It can't be called a cameo as it is an extremely crucial character that gets all the attention in the courtroom drama. We are expected to shoot next year as soon as the rest of the cast is finalised. I'm thrilled to team up with Ash again." Hari's daughter Bhumicka Singh is expected to play the lead in the movie.
Copyright permission mandatory to republish this article.
The yet untitled movie is set to be directed by Jagmohan Mundhra who earlier directed Ash in Provoked. In Hari Singh's film, Ash is supposed to play the character of a lawyer who makes an appearance at the end of the movie - a courtroom climax - to make a case for the war widow.
Says Jagmohan, "Hari Singh approached me to direct a film that tells the emotional and heartrending tale of a war widow, and I have agreed to do it. Ash has a special appearance in the film and it will certainly be the USP of the movie. It can't be called a cameo as it is an extremely crucial character that gets all the attention in the courtroom drama. We are expected to shoot next year as soon as the rest of the cast is finalised. I'm thrilled to team up with Ash again." Hari's daughter Bhumicka Singh is expected to play the lead in the movie.
Copyright permission mandatory to republish this article.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Kalabhavan Mani in 'Yanthram'
The versatile and talented Kalabhavan Mani is a popular Malayalam actor who has impressed many in other languages as well. He is known for his talented performance and his mimicry. Many in Tollywood still remember him for his role in 'Gemini' which starred Venkatesh in the lead.
According to reports, he has been roped in for 'Yanthram'. This flick being directed by Shankar is the talk of the town since it stars superstar Rajnikanth in the lead. It also stars Aishwarya Rai as the female lead.
The shooting has been going on at fast pace with a huge budget but then it is not sure as to what is the role that Kalabhavan would be seen in.
According to reports, he has been roped in for 'Yanthram'. This flick being directed by Shankar is the talk of the town since it stars superstar Rajnikanth in the lead. It also stars Aishwarya Rai as the female lead.
The shooting has been going on at fast pace with a huge budget but then it is not sure as to what is the role that Kalabhavan would be seen in.
Aishwarya Rai grabs the 9th place
It’s been more than a decade that she won the crown. But this former Miss World is still literally reigning the world!
The popular International Harpers and Queen magazine had listed 100 beautiful women and among them was our Aishwarya Rai Bachchan! Not only that! She has taken the ninth rank in the list, reports say.
Meanwhile, Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie is said to be topping the list, followed by Supermodel Christy Turlington. Among other beauties, Queen Rania of Jordan has also found her place in the chart.
The popular International Harpers and Queen magazine had listed 100 beautiful women and among them was our Aishwarya Rai Bachchan! Not only that! She has taken the ninth rank in the list, reports say.
Meanwhile, Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie is said to be topping the list, followed by Supermodel Christy Turlington. Among other beauties, Queen Rania of Jordan has also found her place in the chart.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Big scare for Ash, Abhi as elephant runs amok
Bollywood superpair Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan had a jumbo scare when one co-actor went berserk. The co-actor, an elephant, was brought in for the shoot of Ravan, directed by Mani Ratnam.
His film company, Madras Talkies, has now been issued a show-cause notice by the Animal Welfare Board for not taking permission to use elephants in the film. One of the two elephants brought for the shoot turned amok, killing its mahout on Wednesday. Police said there was no shooting today and the unit had informed them they were shifting to Udhagamandalam.
The film was being shot with the lead pair in the forests near Athirampally waterfalls in Thrissur district when the mahout was trampled to death by the elephant after the shoot was over. Aishwarya, Abhishek and Mani Ratnam were at the shooting site when the incident took place.
Animal Welfare Board secretary D Rajasekar said no permission had been obtained by Mani Ratnam for using elephants. The Board has asked the company to submit its reply in seven days and the chief wildlife warden to give a report about the incident.
A no-objection certificate has to be obtained from the board for shooting films, TV serials and commercials in which animals are used.The elephant, which stood in the middle of the road blocking the way of the Bollywood pair, who were staying at Athirampally Rainforest resort, was brought under control late last night and taken away from the spot early Thursday morning, the police said.
His film company, Madras Talkies, has now been issued a show-cause notice by the Animal Welfare Board for not taking permission to use elephants in the film. One of the two elephants brought for the shoot turned amok, killing its mahout on Wednesday. Police said there was no shooting today and the unit had informed them they were shifting to Udhagamandalam.
The film was being shot with the lead pair in the forests near Athirampally waterfalls in Thrissur district when the mahout was trampled to death by the elephant after the shoot was over. Aishwarya, Abhishek and Mani Ratnam were at the shooting site when the incident took place.
Animal Welfare Board secretary D Rajasekar said no permission had been obtained by Mani Ratnam for using elephants. The Board has asked the company to submit its reply in seven days and the chief wildlife warden to give a report about the incident.
A no-objection certificate has to be obtained from the board for shooting films, TV serials and commercials in which animals are used.The elephant, which stood in the middle of the road blocking the way of the Bollywood pair, who were staying at Athirampally Rainforest resort, was brought under control late last night and taken away from the spot early Thursday morning, the police said.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Bollywood Stars Compete With Hollywood For The Big Earnings
Forbes annually publishes its top celebrities list based on earnings and visibility. Top Hollywood earners make more than $100 million dollars annually. But how does its Bollywood brethren fair?
Depends on how you calculate earnings. India's most talented earns a tenth of that - according to the list of top income tax payers. India's top four actors paid $10mn in advance tax in 2009. Industry favorite Akshay Kumar paid $4mn in taxes and Bollywood King Shah Rukh Khan paid $3mn. Third on the list is superstar Hrthik Roshan, who paid $2mn followed by Aamir Khan who paid $1.3mn.
If advance tax receipts are accurate, it means that Akshay earned approximately $12mn last year, Shah Rukh Khan earned $9mn, Hrthik Roshan, $6mn and Aamir Khan, $4mn.
However, advance taxes often understate how much Bollywood stars actually pay as they are only an indication of the total income of a person. Bollywood stars have three major sources of income: (1) movies (2) endorsements (3) TV shows. And endorsements, for many, yield much more income than the movies.
Bollywood stars promote anywhere from 10 to 15 products a year and top stars make +$1mn per endorsement. Cola companies line up at the feet of Bollywood Stars with Coca-Cola and Pepsi paying top dollars for an endorsement. Not far behind, are the telecom companies who also shell out big bucks. These endorsements earn Bollywood stars more than movies.
Akshay Kumar endorses approximately 10 products at any given time. Conservatively, from his endorsements alone, Akshay makes $10mn. Add his salary from his movies, which averages $4mn per movie, and he makes an additional $12mn a year (given that he makes +3 movies a year). Finally, like many top bollywood stars, Akshay is on television. He is earning approximately $500k per episode as an anchor on the Indian version of Fear Factor. All in all, he is going to clear $20mn from the reality show for its forty episode run. That mean's Akshay's total earnings are $40mn dollars a year.
But that's not all Akshay earns in India, where Purchasing Power Parity (PPT) means that his earnings go along away. Take the standard PPT ratio of 5:1 and Akshay Kumar earns more than $200mn per year-adjusted dollars - more than any Hollywood Star.
Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan (also known as the King of Bollywood) are the two other movie stars who are doing the Bollywood trifecta: (1) movies (2) TV and (3) endorsements. A similar analysis of Shahrukh's pay would find him earning more than $50mn (in his top years). That's how the King of Bollywood can afford to pay a reported $30mn for a new house in London.
Bollywood stars aren't showing up in the Forbes list, but they should be.
Depends on how you calculate earnings. India's most talented earns a tenth of that - according to the list of top income tax payers. India's top four actors paid $10mn in advance tax in 2009. Industry favorite Akshay Kumar paid $4mn in taxes and Bollywood King Shah Rukh Khan paid $3mn. Third on the list is superstar Hrthik Roshan, who paid $2mn followed by Aamir Khan who paid $1.3mn.
If advance tax receipts are accurate, it means that Akshay earned approximately $12mn last year, Shah Rukh Khan earned $9mn, Hrthik Roshan, $6mn and Aamir Khan, $4mn.
However, advance taxes often understate how much Bollywood stars actually pay as they are only an indication of the total income of a person. Bollywood stars have three major sources of income: (1) movies (2) endorsements (3) TV shows. And endorsements, for many, yield much more income than the movies.
Bollywood stars promote anywhere from 10 to 15 products a year and top stars make +$1mn per endorsement. Cola companies line up at the feet of Bollywood Stars with Coca-Cola and Pepsi paying top dollars for an endorsement. Not far behind, are the telecom companies who also shell out big bucks. These endorsements earn Bollywood stars more than movies.
Akshay Kumar endorses approximately 10 products at any given time. Conservatively, from his endorsements alone, Akshay makes $10mn. Add his salary from his movies, which averages $4mn per movie, and he makes an additional $12mn a year (given that he makes +3 movies a year). Finally, like many top bollywood stars, Akshay is on television. He is earning approximately $500k per episode as an anchor on the Indian version of Fear Factor. All in all, he is going to clear $20mn from the reality show for its forty episode run. That mean's Akshay's total earnings are $40mn dollars a year.
But that's not all Akshay earns in India, where Purchasing Power Parity (PPT) means that his earnings go along away. Take the standard PPT ratio of 5:1 and Akshay Kumar earns more than $200mn per year-adjusted dollars - more than any Hollywood Star.
Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan (also known as the King of Bollywood) are the two other movie stars who are doing the Bollywood trifecta: (1) movies (2) TV and (3) endorsements. A similar analysis of Shahrukh's pay would find him earning more than $50mn (in his top years). That's how the King of Bollywood can afford to pay a reported $30mn for a new house in London.
Bollywood stars aren't showing up in the Forbes list, but they should be.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Aishwarya, Shah Rukh ‘Actors of the Decade’
Superstars Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan were declared ‘Actors of the Decade’ at the IIFA awards here on Saturday night.
Aishwarya won two honorary awards for her work in Indian and international cinema, while Shah Rukh was honoured for his work in Bollywood.
The 35-year-old actress, who also performed on stage at the function, received both trophies while Shah Rukh missed the ceremony because he is shooting for his upcoming film ‘My Name is Khan.’
The 43-year-old actor, who began his career on the small screen, beat Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar and Abhishek Bachchan to the title.
Aishwarya won the ‘Golden Decade’ award for her memorable performances in the past 10 years, beating off competition from Rani Mukherjee, Preity Zinta, Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra.
While Aishwarya shot to global recognition with international projects like ‘Pink Panther’ and ‘Provoked,’ Khan too has a global following as the ‘Badshah of Bollywood.’
The former Miss World won the ‘Outstanding Achievement by Indian in International Cinema’ award which was bagged last year by musician A.R. Rahman who won the ‘Golden Decade of Music’ award for his contribution to Indian films.
Aishwarya won two honorary awards for her work in Indian and international cinema, while Shah Rukh was honoured for his work in Bollywood.
The 35-year-old actress, who also performed on stage at the function, received both trophies while Shah Rukh missed the ceremony because he is shooting for his upcoming film ‘My Name is Khan.’
The 43-year-old actor, who began his career on the small screen, beat Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar and Abhishek Bachchan to the title.
Aishwarya won the ‘Golden Decade’ award for her memorable performances in the past 10 years, beating off competition from Rani Mukherjee, Preity Zinta, Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra.
While Aishwarya shot to global recognition with international projects like ‘Pink Panther’ and ‘Provoked,’ Khan too has a global following as the ‘Badshah of Bollywood.’
The former Miss World won the ‘Outstanding Achievement by Indian in International Cinema’ award which was bagged last year by musician A.R. Rahman who won the ‘Golden Decade of Music’ award for his contribution to Indian films.
Bollywood blockbuster
Jodhaa Akbar, a historical epic about the romance between a Mughal king and a Hindu princess, dominated the 10th International Indian Film Academy awards on Saturday, winning six awards including best picture and best actor for heartthrob Hrithik Roshan.
Two Montreal English bands may be dropped from a bilingual St-Jean-Baptiste concert after one of the backers threatened to pull out over language issues.
The bilingual concert on June 23 in Montreal was to have showcased English bands Lake of Stew and Bloodshot Bill along with Quebec artists Malajube, Vincent Vallieres and Marie-Pierre Arthur.
Jammie Thomas-Rasset, the Minnesota woman who became America's only music file-sharing defendant so far to go to trial, is getting a replay two years after losing the case.
Thomas-Rasset will be armed with aggressive new lawyers when her retrial begins in federal court today.
Two Montreal English bands may be dropped from a bilingual St-Jean-Baptiste concert after one of the backers threatened to pull out over language issues.
The bilingual concert on June 23 in Montreal was to have showcased English bands Lake of Stew and Bloodshot Bill along with Quebec artists Malajube, Vincent Vallieres and Marie-Pierre Arthur.
Jammie Thomas-Rasset, the Minnesota woman who became America's only music file-sharing defendant so far to go to trial, is getting a replay two years after losing the case.
Thomas-Rasset will be armed with aggressive new lawyers when her retrial begins in federal court today.
Monday, December 29, 2008
The secret is out on Ash-Rajnikanth starrer
The closely guarded secret is out about India’s most expensive film Endhiran, which stars Rajnikanth and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The film has the South Indian superstar playing a double role. We also have the storyline of this film.
An informer reveals: “The film has Rajnikanth essaying two roles that of a scientist and the robot Endhiran he creates. The film is essentially about what circumstances propel Rajni to make a robot, his relationship with it and what he wants to achieve through the robot.”
“The film is set in 2200 AD and Rajni is a famous scientist who is madly in love with Aishwarya. Being the best scientist of the country, Rajni is given an important mission of creating robots which will make the living of human races easier. But trouble starts after Rajni makes the robot,” the insider adds. Endhiran has some interesting twists and turns too.
The source adds: “Every film has a twist and the twist in Endhiran comes in with the villain trying to ruin the reputation and fame Rajni garners for creating the robot by abducting it. Rajni tries to bring back his creation but realises that a robot in which he has sowed the seeds of love, has started to fall in love with the girl he loves. The robot creates more confusion in Rajni’s life by chasing Ash all around. Using this to his advantage Rajni finally manages to bring the robot back under his control. He rectifies all the anomalies in the robot’s configuration and regains his reputation in the eyes of his countrymen.”
An informer reveals: “The film has Rajnikanth essaying two roles that of a scientist and the robot Endhiran he creates. The film is essentially about what circumstances propel Rajni to make a robot, his relationship with it and what he wants to achieve through the robot.”
“The film is set in 2200 AD and Rajni is a famous scientist who is madly in love with Aishwarya. Being the best scientist of the country, Rajni is given an important mission of creating robots which will make the living of human races easier. But trouble starts after Rajni makes the robot,” the insider adds. Endhiran has some interesting twists and turns too.
The source adds: “Every film has a twist and the twist in Endhiran comes in with the villain trying to ruin the reputation and fame Rajni garners for creating the robot by abducting it. Rajni tries to bring back his creation but realises that a robot in which he has sowed the seeds of love, has started to fall in love with the girl he loves. The robot creates more confusion in Rajni’s life by chasing Ash all around. Using this to his advantage Rajni finally manages to bring the robot back under his control. He rectifies all the anomalies in the robot’s configuration and regains his reputation in the eyes of his countrymen.”
I've always wanted to work with Hrithik: Bhansali
Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali says he always wanted to work with Hrithik Roshan and he's doing exactly that in his new venture that also stars his favourite actress - Aishwarya Rai. The two have already created wonders together in Dhoom-2 and Jodhaa Akbar.
"Hrithik and I wanted to work together for a very long time. I've always been impressed by his sincerity as an actor. I was waiting for the right opportunity to sign him. Working with Hrithik would be a new and rewarding experience," Bhansali said.
The director admits that Aishwarya is "special", after having worked with her in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas.
"Aishwarya is very special to me. She suits the role in my new film to perfection. When she read the script she was deeply moved," he said.
Bhansali also rubbished reports that he had signed on Pakistani actor Imran Abbas for his next venture.
"I haven't signed anyone called Imran Abbas. I'm not making Heera Mandi right now...I met him almost a year ago, but I immediately realised he wasn't the actor I was looking for. Just because I don't speak out, people take advantage of my silence."
He also maintains that he is still proud of his Saawariya, which flopped.
"It's my rarest work in terms of treatment."
Excerpts from the interview:
You seem to have quietly signed a Pakistani actor called Imran Abbas for Heera Mandi.
So quietly that even I don't know about it. I haven't signed anyone called Imran Abbas. I'm not making Heera Mandi right now. It may happen much later.
I'm now directing another film with Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai. I'm very excited about the film, and so are they.
You continue to be fearless in spite of Saawariya?
This is the time when filmmakers need to be fearless and experiment with themes. Fearlessness is my biggest asset as a filmmaker. I will continue to make films that come from deep within me. My very first film Khamoshi: The Musical didn't do well at all. A lot of people think it's my best work.
So are you as proud of Saawariya as the rest of your films?
Of course. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam or Devdas can be made again, but Saawariya cannot. It's my rarest work in terms of treatment. It had beautiful performances and visuals. I tried to put a stage-play on film. Of course at the end of the day the audience decides what it likes.
So have you met Pakistani actor Imran?
Moin Beg, who has written Heera Mandi, wanted me to meet Imran. So I met him almost a year ago, but I immediately realised he wasn't the actor I was looking for. Just because I don't speak out, people take advantage of my silence.
Why don't you clarify the misconceptions when they occur?
I can't bring myself to become the master of sound bytes. But beyond a point silence is construed as a sign of acceptance. I don't even meet new actors, musicians or lyricists. I've already decided whom to work with in my next project. And why go to Pakistan to get actors? We've very talented people in our own country.
There were reports that some actors, including Ranbir Kapoor, didn't want to work with you?
People are writing tragic tales about me every day. They are even deciding what film I'm making and also casting actresses in them... Maybe stories about me sell. But when the misrepresentations go beyond my tolerance, it's time to speak up. The truth is Ranbir and Sonam would be there for me whenever I need them. However, at the moment I'm making a film with Hrithik and Aishwarya.
"Hrithik and I wanted to work together for a very long time. I've always been impressed by his sincerity as an actor. I was waiting for the right opportunity to sign him. Working with Hrithik would be a new and rewarding experience," Bhansali said.
The director admits that Aishwarya is "special", after having worked with her in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas.
"Aishwarya is very special to me. She suits the role in my new film to perfection. When she read the script she was deeply moved," he said.
Bhansali also rubbished reports that he had signed on Pakistani actor Imran Abbas for his next venture.
"I haven't signed anyone called Imran Abbas. I'm not making Heera Mandi right now...I met him almost a year ago, but I immediately realised he wasn't the actor I was looking for. Just because I don't speak out, people take advantage of my silence."
He also maintains that he is still proud of his Saawariya, which flopped.
"It's my rarest work in terms of treatment."
Excerpts from the interview:
You seem to have quietly signed a Pakistani actor called Imran Abbas for Heera Mandi.
So quietly that even I don't know about it. I haven't signed anyone called Imran Abbas. I'm not making Heera Mandi right now. It may happen much later.
I'm now directing another film with Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai. I'm very excited about the film, and so are they.
You continue to be fearless in spite of Saawariya?
This is the time when filmmakers need to be fearless and experiment with themes. Fearlessness is my biggest asset as a filmmaker. I will continue to make films that come from deep within me. My very first film Khamoshi: The Musical didn't do well at all. A lot of people think it's my best work.
So are you as proud of Saawariya as the rest of your films?
Of course. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam or Devdas can be made again, but Saawariya cannot. It's my rarest work in terms of treatment. It had beautiful performances and visuals. I tried to put a stage-play on film. Of course at the end of the day the audience decides what it likes.
So have you met Pakistani actor Imran?
Moin Beg, who has written Heera Mandi, wanted me to meet Imran. So I met him almost a year ago, but I immediately realised he wasn't the actor I was looking for. Just because I don't speak out, people take advantage of my silence.
Why don't you clarify the misconceptions when they occur?
I can't bring myself to become the master of sound bytes. But beyond a point silence is construed as a sign of acceptance. I don't even meet new actors, musicians or lyricists. I've already decided whom to work with in my next project. And why go to Pakistan to get actors? We've very talented people in our own country.
There were reports that some actors, including Ranbir Kapoor, didn't want to work with you?
People are writing tragic tales about me every day. They are even deciding what film I'm making and also casting actresses in them... Maybe stories about me sell. But when the misrepresentations go beyond my tolerance, it's time to speak up. The truth is Ranbir and Sonam would be there for me whenever I need them. However, at the moment I'm making a film with Hrithik and Aishwarya.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Bollywood's leggy beauties
Thankfully Deepika Padukone is dating tall dude Ranbir, or her long legs may have caused her beau some embarassment
Rising star Katrina Kaif is yet another Bollywood diva with amazing legs.
Priyanka Chopra's gorgeous legs have taken her far this year. With the coming of Fashion and Dostana she has now been established as an A-league actress
Model turned actress Mugdha Godse showed off her model's legs in Fashion
Check out the Bollywood beauties with the sexiest legs. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan may look a tad short next to hubby Abhishek but she has still got the legs of a world-class model.
In the past year Shilpa Shetty's life has been just perfect and that includes her legs.
Budding actress Jiah Khan too can boast of really gorgeous legs
Bipasha Basu too was a model in her pre-Bollywood days and she has made it a point to retain her perfect legs.
Actress Neha Dhupia needs to train her legs to direct her towards some success in tinsel town.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Parvathy Omanakuttan finishes second
India's Parvathy Omanakuttan was adjudged the first runner-up at the Miss World pageant here Saturday evening, with the crown going to Miss Russia.
Parvathy impressed the jury with her looks and quick wit and was one the five finalists out of the 109 contestants at the Sandton Convention Center. However, she was finally beaten by Miss Russia.
Miss Trinidad and Tobago was named the second runner-up. The others in contention in the final five were Miss South Africa and Miss Angola.
India had high hopes on 21-year-old Parvathy to win the crown that last came to the country in 2000.
India boasts of Miss Worlds like Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999) and Priyanka Chopra (2000).
Parvathy impressed the jury with her looks and quick wit and was one the five finalists out of the 109 contestants at the Sandton Convention Center. However, she was finally beaten by Miss Russia.
Miss Trinidad and Tobago was named the second runner-up. The others in contention in the final five were Miss South Africa and Miss Angola.
India had high hopes on 21-year-old Parvathy to win the crown that last came to the country in 2000.
India boasts of Miss Worlds like Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999) and Priyanka Chopra (2000).
Katrina is the hottest babe on Google
Looks like Katrina Kaif has finally won the 'Race'! As per a new Google report, Indians couldn't have enough of the leggy beauty on big screen so they spent most of the 2008 searching for this Bollywood siren on the Web.
Recently declared as Asia's sexiest woman, Katrina Kaif has yet again pipped former beauty queen and Bollywood heart-throb Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as the most searched for person on the Web, according to Google's India Zeitgeist list for 2008.
Interestingly, Katrina has also outdone her boyfriend and godfather Salman Khan when it comes to being googled on the Net! As for Salman, he may not have been able to set his account straight with Shah Rukh Khan in real life but on the world wide web he has elbowed King Khan, and remains the most searched for actor in India. Shahid Kapoor makes his debut on the list while Genelia D'Souza of Jaane Tu Jaane Na has been declared as one the fastest rising searched for terms on the Net besides Beijing Olympics and IPL!
Bollywood remains one of the most popular Internet search terms ahead of Tamil Cinema when it comes to netizens' interest on movies. As with most of the awards ceremonies, one name that is conspicously missing is none other than Aamir Khan's. After all, Aamir was never in the rat race, more so if it was run on people's keyboards!
Recently declared as Asia's sexiest woman, Katrina Kaif has yet again pipped former beauty queen and Bollywood heart-throb Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as the most searched for person on the Web, according to Google's India Zeitgeist list for 2008.
Interestingly, Katrina has also outdone her boyfriend and godfather Salman Khan when it comes to being googled on the Net! As for Salman, he may not have been able to set his account straight with Shah Rukh Khan in real life but on the world wide web he has elbowed King Khan, and remains the most searched for actor in India. Shahid Kapoor makes his debut on the list while Genelia D'Souza of Jaane Tu Jaane Na has been declared as one the fastest rising searched for terms on the Net besides Beijing Olympics and IPL!
Bollywood remains one of the most popular Internet search terms ahead of Tamil Cinema when it comes to netizens' interest on movies. As with most of the awards ceremonies, one name that is conspicously missing is none other than Aamir Khan's. After all, Aamir was never in the rat race, more so if it was run on people's keyboards!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Happy Birthday Rajinikanth
His is typically the story that adorns the adage- From rags to riches. Rajinikanth, then known as Sivaji Rao began his service as a ticket collector in a local shuttle in Bangalore. But it is easy to envision the fact that though he handled a nondescript job, young Sivaji must have cast his innate charisma on a majority of the commuters in his bus line.
Apparently, when he was unearthed by the legendary K.Balachander and rechristened as Rajinikanth, it was the same magnetism that made an impression in the experienced director’s mind. Moonru Mugam was Rajni’s debut. Incidentally, an action-entertainer, the film took Rajini to great heights. Most of Rajni’s initial films happened to be double-hero starrers. He paired up with Kamal Haasan in Aval Oru Thodargadhai, Moonru Mudichu, Aboorva Raagangal.
However, since the actor played his part to perfection, his remarkable style and heroism began to attract the masses. His stunts, his body language, his dialogue delivery, even his romantics captured all kinds of viewers. Audiences cheered and screamed in delight whenever their favourite actor appeared on screen. And, all the appreciation raised his star-status. From ‘Style Mannan’, he became the invincible Superstar. As a matter of fact, till date, no performer has achieved such an iconic status in the industry. Such was the audiences’ fondness for the actor and his rise was truly spectacular. All Rajni films ran to packed houses, his film releases were celebrated as major events, his cut-outs were showered with milk and honey and adorned with a hefty garland strings comprising lovely and exotic flowers.
At the centre of all the fanfare and celebration stood Rajni the modest individual. Though he acknowledged the popularity and his fans’ adoration and chose scripts and designed his characters to primarily suit their tastes and expectations, the Superstar never altered his personality. An absolute professional at heart and spirit, he continued to remain as the same simpleton Sivaji. He remained approachable for his fans and prodded them to think for their own good yet continued to guide them in his own way. Disciplining and prompting them to progress in the right direction and never letting them falter, Rajni continues to be their mentor and godfather.
Following the magnum opus Sivaji directed by Shankar, Kuselan, a remake of the Malayalam film Katha Parayumbol scripted by his dear friend Srinivasan was Rajini’s most recent release. Needless to say, the responses to both the films prove the fact that still he is the ‘reigning raja’ of Kollywood. Even actors who are stars in other industries hold great appeal and reverence for Rajini. In fact, his powerful appeal and strong impressions go beyond just movies. His comments and statements in specific contexts have knocked rulers off their thrones, influenced leaders’ perspectives and toppled governments in the state.
Rajni’s family has always been one far removed from all the glitz and glamour. Rajni’s elder daughter Aishwarya is married to Dhanush, another hero in Kollywood; the couple have a one-year-old son named Yatra. His second girl Soundarya is into graphics and designing. She has set up her own company Ocher Studios in Chennai. Soundarya’s very first project is an animation movie Sultan which will feature the Superstar in the animates form. While Soundarya worked on the framework of Sultan’s hero, the Superstar participated in the shoot and performed taking his daughter’s directions.
Endhiran, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is Rajni’s next. So many news and rumours about the movie and Rajni’s role fill the industry grapevine. Yet, when it releases, it will be another magnificent production in Rajni-Shankar combo. And at times like these, it feels so good just to discern the fact that the next Superstar movie will be here in a year to entertain and fascinate his diehard audiences and fans as it has for years till now.
Long live Rajni! Happy Birthday Thalaiva!
Apparently, when he was unearthed by the legendary K.Balachander and rechristened as Rajinikanth, it was the same magnetism that made an impression in the experienced director’s mind. Moonru Mugam was Rajni’s debut. Incidentally, an action-entertainer, the film took Rajini to great heights. Most of Rajni’s initial films happened to be double-hero starrers. He paired up with Kamal Haasan in Aval Oru Thodargadhai, Moonru Mudichu, Aboorva Raagangal.
However, since the actor played his part to perfection, his remarkable style and heroism began to attract the masses. His stunts, his body language, his dialogue delivery, even his romantics captured all kinds of viewers. Audiences cheered and screamed in delight whenever their favourite actor appeared on screen. And, all the appreciation raised his star-status. From ‘Style Mannan’, he became the invincible Superstar. As a matter of fact, till date, no performer has achieved such an iconic status in the industry. Such was the audiences’ fondness for the actor and his rise was truly spectacular. All Rajni films ran to packed houses, his film releases were celebrated as major events, his cut-outs were showered with milk and honey and adorned with a hefty garland strings comprising lovely and exotic flowers.
At the centre of all the fanfare and celebration stood Rajni the modest individual. Though he acknowledged the popularity and his fans’ adoration and chose scripts and designed his characters to primarily suit their tastes and expectations, the Superstar never altered his personality. An absolute professional at heart and spirit, he continued to remain as the same simpleton Sivaji. He remained approachable for his fans and prodded them to think for their own good yet continued to guide them in his own way. Disciplining and prompting them to progress in the right direction and never letting them falter, Rajni continues to be their mentor and godfather.
Following the magnum opus Sivaji directed by Shankar, Kuselan, a remake of the Malayalam film Katha Parayumbol scripted by his dear friend Srinivasan was Rajini’s most recent release. Needless to say, the responses to both the films prove the fact that still he is the ‘reigning raja’ of Kollywood. Even actors who are stars in other industries hold great appeal and reverence for Rajini. In fact, his powerful appeal and strong impressions go beyond just movies. His comments and statements in specific contexts have knocked rulers off their thrones, influenced leaders’ perspectives and toppled governments in the state.
Rajni’s family has always been one far removed from all the glitz and glamour. Rajni’s elder daughter Aishwarya is married to Dhanush, another hero in Kollywood; the couple have a one-year-old son named Yatra. His second girl Soundarya is into graphics and designing. She has set up her own company Ocher Studios in Chennai. Soundarya’s very first project is an animation movie Sultan which will feature the Superstar in the animates form. While Soundarya worked on the framework of Sultan’s hero, the Superstar participated in the shoot and performed taking his daughter’s directions.
Endhiran, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is Rajni’s next. So many news and rumours about the movie and Rajni’s role fill the industry grapevine. Yet, when it releases, it will be another magnificent production in Rajni-Shankar combo. And at times like these, it feels so good just to discern the fact that the next Superstar movie will be here in a year to entertain and fascinate his diehard audiences and fans as it has for years till now.
Long live Rajni! Happy Birthday Thalaiva!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Will Parvathy win the Miss World crown?
The last time India won the Miss World pageant was in 2000. But experts busy grooming Parvathy Omanakuttan say she has the vivacity, warmth and beauty to bag the crown again for the country.
Standing tall at 5 feet 9 inches, 21-year-old Parvathy will compete with 109 contestants at the Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg, South Africa on Saturday. Zee Café will telecast the Miss World 2008 contest live at 8.30 pm.
"She has the 'X' factor that sets apart a supermodel from the models. It's her vivacity and warmth that make her instantly likeable. She is a perfect mix of beauty with brains," diction expert Sabira Merchant said in a statement.
Ace photographer Subi Samuel admires Parvathy a lot and believes she exudes class and confidence and this could do the trick for her.
Talking on the same lines, fitness expert Deanne Pandey said: "She is an ideal blend of panache and poise. Her face just lights up each time she smiles."
Ace choreographer Sandeep Soparrkar said: "You cannot take your eyes off her even in a room full of gorgeous women and that is the hallmark of a beauty queen."
Expectations from millions of Indians are acting as an inspiration for Parvathy as she feels 'this is a big responsibility' and is trying her best to live up to the hopes of everyone.
"This contest is not only about winning but with it comes the responsibility of upholding the name of the country. I am trying to be a stronger person to face the contest and I will try my level best to make every Indian all over the world proud," she explained.
Like many beauty queens, Parvathy too is smitten by the big screen and says she would love to act if the 'right' kind of roles fall into her kitty.
"I would love to do a movie opposite Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan, as I have a big time crush on these guys," she said.
Parvathy has big shoes to fill as India boasts of Miss Worlds like Reita Faria (1966), Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (1994), Diana Hayden (1997), Yukta Mookhey (1999) and Priyanka Chopra (2000).
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan reveals a secret
The actor chose to do The Pink Panther because she adores comedian Peter Sellers who was in four Pink Panther films.
Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan Hollywood film The Pink Panther 2 is ready for release. The actor says one of the reasons she chose to do the film was her love for British comedian Peter Sellers. The three-time Oscar-nominated artist gained widespread recognition appearing in four Pink Panther movies.
“I loved Peter Sellers as inspector Clouseau in the Pink Panther series when I was a kid and watched these films. It was hilarious, a laugh riot and a thorough family entertainer. People across different age groups love The Pink Panther because the films always bring a smile to one’s face,” Ash says.
She adds: “When I was offered this film, I was really excited as for me I was doing something which I have loves seeing as a child. It was a fun film which I would enjoy working in. The film did not require me to do intense acting and I did not have to look forward to scoring points as it had an ensemble cast of terrifically talented actors. I wanted to have a good time with all of them and I said a yes to the project. I’m not expecting critical acclaim or something from this film since the film is not about me, it’s about Steve Martin and The Pink Panther.”
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Katrina Kaif is sexiest Asian woman for 2008
Katrina Kaif is sexiest Asian woman for 2008Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif has been adjudged the sexiest Asian woman in the world in 2008 by a UK-based weekly, with last year's winner Bipasha Basu pushed to the second spot.
In the annual round conducted by 'Eastern Eye', a leading British Asian newspaper, Kaif emerged on the top in a shortlist of 10.
The judges included Brianna Ragel, editor of Asian Woman Magazine and the former editor of FHM India, Farhad Dadyburjor.
Hamant Verma, editor of Eastern Eye, said: "Katrina Kaif's natural beauty and easy charm has enabled her stock to rise in Bollywood. This has resulted in a number of lucrative offers, and appearances in films that proved to be box-office hits."
Kaif, who was brought up in London, was ranked one place above last year's winner Bipasha Basu and two ahead of 2006 winner Priyanka Chopra. Kareena Kapoor came third in the list.
New entrants to the 'sexiest list' included Pakistani actress Mehwish Hayat (nine), Miss India Universe Simran Kaur Mundi (10), former Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandez (12) and south Indian actress Asin (22).
Former Miss World Aishwarya Rai was at the seventh place.
Slumdog beats Jodhaa Akbar in US
Danny Boyle's acclaimed hit "Slumdog Millionaire" has reached $3.8 million at the North American box office, surpassing the $3.4 million of the Hrithik Roshan-Aishwarya Rai epic Jodhaa Akbar to become the highest grossing Indian movie of 2008.
The film set and shot in Mumbai has done this after only three weeks in theatres while playing in only 49 locations, Fox Searchlight said Friday. Released in February, Jodhaa Akbar played much wider in 125 theaters and earned its total gross over nine weeks.
"Slumdog Millionaire" will continue to open in more theatres nationwide throughout December and will see its box office gross continue to climb. Though financed in the UK, the film's setting, story, and characters are all Indian.
"Slumdog Millionaire" recounts the travails of an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai who goes on to win a staggering 20 million rupees on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" game show and the process is nabbed by the police on suspicion of cheating.
"Slumdog Millionaire" added to its impressive list of industry accolades this week winning three British Independent Film Awards for Best Film, Best Director, and the Most Promising Newcomer prize for 18-year-old actor Dev Patel.
The song 'Paper Planes' by British Sri Lankan singer MIA, which is featured on the "Slumdog Millionaire" soundtrack earned a prestigious Grammy Award nomination for Record of the Year Dec 3.
And Thursday the film was named Best Picture of the Year by the National Board of Review which also honoured it in two other categories - Best Breakthrough Performance by an Actor for Patel and Best Adapted Screenplay (tie) for Simon Beaufoy.
The film set and shot in Mumbai has done this after only three weeks in theatres while playing in only 49 locations, Fox Searchlight said Friday. Released in February, Jodhaa Akbar played much wider in 125 theaters and earned its total gross over nine weeks.
"Slumdog Millionaire" will continue to open in more theatres nationwide throughout December and will see its box office gross continue to climb. Though financed in the UK, the film's setting, story, and characters are all Indian.
"Slumdog Millionaire" recounts the travails of an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai who goes on to win a staggering 20 million rupees on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" game show and the process is nabbed by the police on suspicion of cheating.
"Slumdog Millionaire" added to its impressive list of industry accolades this week winning three British Independent Film Awards for Best Film, Best Director, and the Most Promising Newcomer prize for 18-year-old actor Dev Patel.
The song 'Paper Planes' by British Sri Lankan singer MIA, which is featured on the "Slumdog Millionaire" soundtrack earned a prestigious Grammy Award nomination for Record of the Year Dec 3.
And Thursday the film was named Best Picture of the Year by the National Board of Review which also honoured it in two other categories - Best Breakthrough Performance by an Actor for Patel and Best Adapted Screenplay (tie) for Simon Beaufoy.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Photos
Aishwarya Rai Latest Photos with Abhishek Bachchan
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Wallpapers
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Photos
Bollywood Latest wallpapers
Bollywood Latest Photos
Aishwarya Rai Latest Photos with Abhishek Bachchan
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Wallpapers
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Photos
Bollywood Latest wallpapers
Bollywood Latest Photos
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Wallpapers
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Photos
Bollywood Latest wallpapers
Bollywood Latest Photos
Aishwarya Rai Latest Photos with Abhishek Bachchan
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Wallpapers
Latest Aishwarya Rai Abhishek Bachchan Photos
Bollywood Latest wallpapers
Bollywood Latest Photos
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Cyclone delays Rajnikanth film
The lavish set of Endhiran, starring the South superstar and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, was destroyed by the dreaded Nisha that hit Chennai.
Director S Shankar has been forced to scrap the third schedule of his forthcoming mega budget film Endhiran (formerly titled Robot) after cyclone Nisha destroyed his costly set. Reliable insiders close to the film informed that the crew, including Rajnikanth, was also stuck for around two days in Tondiarpet (near Chennai) where the shooting was taking place due to heavy rains. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, however, was in Kochi shooting for Mani Ratnam.
An insider informs, “Endhiran’s set was conceptualised and built by Sabu Cyril (who is currently working on the Amitabh Bachchan starrer Aladin and has earlier made sets for films like Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, Asoka and Welcome among others). It was a very costly set. Since Ash was busy with Mani’s film, this shooting schedule had Rajnikanth doing the portions of the script that did not need her.
They had constructed Rajnikanth’s on screen house and also other futuristic structures at that place. It was unprotected from storm or rain as the huge construction could not be built inside a studio.”
The source adds,“Though late November and December sees rainfall in South India, there was no warning of a cyclone, so Shankar had taken the gamble of creating such a lavish structure there. But suddenly coastal rains started and cyclone Nisha hit the area. The set was washed away in front of everyone’s eyes as rains just did not seem to stop. It is quite a loss for the film. They will most probably travel to Kulu Manali now as soon as Aishwarya gets free from Mani’s schedule.”
Directed by Shankar, Endhiran is based on the work of the late writer Sujatha’s novels En Iniya Iyanthira and Jeeno Shankar. Shankar has previously directed Rajnikanth in the super-hit Sivaji: The Boss. The film has a mammoth budget of rupees 140 crore, perhaps making it the most expensive film to be made in India to date. Endhiran is expected to release on April 14, 2010.
Director S Shankar has been forced to scrap the third schedule of his forthcoming mega budget film Endhiran (formerly titled Robot) after cyclone Nisha destroyed his costly set. Reliable insiders close to the film informed that the crew, including Rajnikanth, was also stuck for around two days in Tondiarpet (near Chennai) where the shooting was taking place due to heavy rains. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, however, was in Kochi shooting for Mani Ratnam.
An insider informs, “Endhiran’s set was conceptualised and built by Sabu Cyril (who is currently working on the Amitabh Bachchan starrer Aladin and has earlier made sets for films like Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, Asoka and Welcome among others). It was a very costly set. Since Ash was busy with Mani’s film, this shooting schedule had Rajnikanth doing the portions of the script that did not need her.
They had constructed Rajnikanth’s on screen house and also other futuristic structures at that place. It was unprotected from storm or rain as the huge construction could not be built inside a studio.”
The source adds,“Though late November and December sees rainfall in South India, there was no warning of a cyclone, so Shankar had taken the gamble of creating such a lavish structure there. But suddenly coastal rains started and cyclone Nisha hit the area. The set was washed away in front of everyone’s eyes as rains just did not seem to stop. It is quite a loss for the film. They will most probably travel to Kulu Manali now as soon as Aishwarya gets free from Mani’s schedule.”
Directed by Shankar, Endhiran is based on the work of the late writer Sujatha’s novels En Iniya Iyanthira and Jeeno Shankar. Shankar has previously directed Rajnikanth in the super-hit Sivaji: The Boss. The film has a mammoth budget of rupees 140 crore, perhaps making it the most expensive film to be made in India to date. Endhiran is expected to release on April 14, 2010.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
