Rakhi Sawant to enter 'Chidiya Ghar'

Rakhi Sawant who is all set to enter SAB TV's 'Chidiya Ghar' as an actress-cum-dancer, will add on to a twist to the on-going track. As per the track Mayuri doubts that Gomukh is having an extra maritial affair with Rakhi. She asks Gomukh to get Rakhi home and only then will she believe him and forgive him.

Rakhi Sawant

Gomukh is now trapped as Rakhi has gone back to Mumbai and he is desperate to solve this dilemma. After speaking to Ghotak about his problems he decides to get an actress-cum-dancer to pose as Rakhi in a bid to clear Mayuri's doubts.

Shafaq Naaz who plays Mayuri in SAB TV's Chidiya Ghar said, "I am really looking forward to working with Rakhi. I have always been in awe of her feistiness and as per the current track we will be pitted against each other, so I am really excited about it."

'Jurassic World' sequel not to be limited to theme parks

London: 'Jurassic World' director Colin Trevorrow has confirmed that the sequel to the blockbuster hit will see the comeback of Chris Pratt and they are planning to take the dinosaur action out of the theme parks.

Jurassic World. Pic/Santa Banta

The 38-year-old filmmaker, whose dinosaur adventure film became the third-highest grossing film of all time, teased that the sequel may include more hybrid dinosaurs, like the current film's Indominus Rex, reported Wired.

"(It will not be) just a bunch of dinosaurs chasing people on an island. That'll get old real fast. "I feel like the idea that this isn't always going to be limited to theme parks, and there are applications for this science that reach far beyond entertainment," Treverrow said.

"Dr. Wu says in the film, when he's warning Dr. Mesrani, 'We're not always going to be the only ones who can make a dinosaur.' I think that's an interesting idea that even if we don't explore fully in this film, there is room for this universe to expand," he added.

The untitled sequel will be executive produced by Steven Spielberg and written by 'Jurassic World' director Colin Trevorrow. As announced by Universal Studios the film is slated ro release in June 2018.

Channing Tatum's 'Gambit' to start filming in October

Los Angeles: The spin-off to 'X-Men', 'Gambit' starring Channing Tatum, will reportedly start filming in October in New Orleans.

Channing Tatum. Pic/Santa Banta

News website Showbiz411 claims they received a casting call for 'Gambit' under the title 'Chess'. The characters mentioned in the casting call were Louis, Vera, Wes, Fritz, Nash, Willhelm, Gary, Nonna, Joe, Ben, Boris, Clarissa, Wolfgang and Howard.

Three of them are described as females, while the rest are male. The information also includes the description and the characteristics of the roles and the ethniticy of the characters, reports aceshowbiz.com.

Since the film will shoot under a code name, some of the characters' names might also be alias names.

Meanwhile, sources have claimed that the movie, in which Channing Tatum will play LeBeau aka Gambit, would cost about $150 million for the production. They estimated that the film would cost $154,975,309, and over $111 million of which would be spent in Louisiana.

As of now, Channing Tatum is the only star attached to the project. Directed by Rupert Wyatt, the action fantasy movie is slated for a release on October 7, 2016.

Katy Perry performs first time post split with John Mayer

Los Angeles: 'California Gurls' hitmaker Katy Perry gave a sombre performance after her split with on-and-off boyfriend John Mayer.

Katy Perry and John Mayer

The 30-year-old singer oerformed during the Starkey Hearing Foundation's "So the World May Hear Gala" at the St Paul River Centre in Minnesota, reported E!online.

Perry wore a strapless, floor-length ball gown for the event and also posed for a picture with two former US presidents, Bill Clinton and George W.

It was reported last week that Perry and Mayer had called it quits once more. No reason was given for their latest split.

Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner spotted in family day out for the first time

Los Angeles: Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner were spotted in a family day out with their children, Violet, Seraphina and Samuel, at a school fair in Atlanta.

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner. Pic/AFP

This was the first time the estranged couple was spotted together with their children since announcing split last month, reported Ace Showbiz.

Garner, 43, looked content as she held their son while Affleck, 42, barely smiled when they played at the school fair.

The actor covered his head with a blue baseball hat. The kids were seen enjoying a bouncy castle and some games at the venue.

After they got out of the venue, the former couple treated their children to ice-creams to cope with the hot weather in Atlanta that day.

'Actors think 100 times before working with independent filmmakers'

'Umrao Jaan' director Muzaffar Ali, who is coming up with his new film 'Jaanisaar', says actors are nowadays unsure about working with independent filmmakers as they are more inclined towards big budget and mainstream cinema.

Muzaffar Ali

At a media interaction for "Jaanisaar", Ali spoke about the current mindset among actors, and shared: "In India, there are several actors. Whenever they feel that something positive is going to happen in their life, they get inclined towards multi-starrer, big banner and studio films. And before working with independent filmmakers, they think 100 times, eventually getting into a dilemma of which one to go for.

"In cinema, both good and bad things always happen. Artists are born and are finished regularly. There are actors who don't compromise and there are some who do compromise. More the number of mouths, more the talks. What is the way you want to move forward with, how you want to live and what you want to say, is eventually what your journey is."

However, Imran Abbas, who plays the male lead in "Jaanisaar", didn't have any apprehensions about taking up a role in the movie.

"According to the demand of the script, we needed a boy like Imran. He had the guts to say 'yes' to me. It's a big thing that he came forward during such a period," added the filmmaker, who is also an accomplished fashion designer.

"Jaanisaar" is slated to release on August 7. It marks the debut of stylist Pernia Qureshi.

I'm playing my dream role in 'Jaanisaar', says Imran Abbas

Pakistani actor Imran Abbas, who is gearing up for the release of his second Bollywood film 'Jaanisaar', says it is his dream role.

Imran Abbas. Pic/Nikesh Gurav

'Jaanisaar' is a period drama based on the love story of a prince and dancer, played by Imran and debutante Pernia Qureshi respectively.

"I think for any actor this will be a dream role. Very few people make these kind of films, and when Muzaffar Ali offered this role to me, it was like a dream come true for me," Imran said.

Talking about the character he is playing in the film, Imran said: "The character of Raja Ameer Haider is close to my heart because this character understands music and shayari and I am also a student of music and shayari. During the shoot, Muzaffar sir narrated the character so beautifully that I started living it."

'Jaanisaar' is set to release on August 7.

Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan to star together in a YRF film?

Aditya Chopra is said to be planning a two-hero film with Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan

If the latest buzz is to be believed, Karan-Arjun are likely to reunite on the big screen. Sources suggest that Yash Raj boss Aditya Chopra has successfully managed the casting coup and has decided to direct the two Khans himself.



Salman Khan
Says an insider, "It is the same film for which Ranveer Singh was earlier being considered. Adi felt that the Shah Rukh-Salman combo would work wonders at the box-office and so, decided to sign Salman instead of Ranveer. Shah Rukh has already given his nod to him."

Shah Rukh Khan
Sources close to the production house reveal that the romantic thriller featuring the two Khans will go on floors by the end of 2016. "The script is ready and both the superstars have liked it. However, the female lead is yet to be finalised. The details will be revealed when Adi decides to make an official announcement. But as of now, both the actors seem enthused about their on-screen reunion," adds the source.
The two actors, who were last seen together in 'Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam' (2002), were unavailable for comment. A source close to SRK denies the buzz while the spokesperson for Yash Raj remained non-committal, saying: "Request that you wait for YRF to make the official announcements on forthcoming films and in the meantime, please refrain from casting speculations."

Saif Ali Khan at magistrate's court in Mumbai

Saif Ali Khan appeared before a metropolitan magistrate's court (Killa Court) in Mumbai on Monday in connection with the 2012 assault case in which he was accused of punching an NRI businessman at a Colaba hotel. Pic/Shadab Khan
 

Hrithik Roshan with his kids Hrehaan and Hridhaan

Hrithik Roshan was spotted playing the doting dad at a multiplex with his sons Hrehaan and Hridhaan who seemed to be in high spirits throughout the movie.

Hrithik Roshan with sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan

Also spotted at the same multiplex was Tusshar Kapoor who was accompanied by some friends.

Tusshar Kapoor

'Sultan' and 'Raees' box-office clash averted?

Apparently, Salman Khan is in talks with 'Sultan' makers to release the film on Diwali 2016 and avert a clash with Shah Rukh Khan's 'Raees'

Much has been made of Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan coming face-to-face at the box office on Eid 2016, but our sources tell us that the clash has finally been averted. The two superstars apparently had a little chat over a common release date for their upcoming films with Salman deciding to give up on the Eid slot for his friend-turned-foe-turned-friend SRK.


Shah Rukh Khan in the 'Raees' poster
A source says, "Shah Rukh and Salman have become good friends again and they believe that there's no competition between them. They respect each other's work and have worked out a solution to avoid a clash. Shah Rukh has retained Eid 2016 for 'Raees' while Salman will convince the makers of 'Sultan' to shift the release to Diwali 2016."
A source working on 'Sultan' confirms the development, saying: "The both have a massive fan following and do not want the audience to be divided. So, Salman has now decided to come on Diwali."

Salman Khan
At a recent media interaction, when SRK had been asked about the possible clash, he said: "We have now become friends, so we will do everything together. For you all it is clash, but not for us. We both are going to do well then. There might be a business clash but there will be equal profit for us."
The last time the two superstars clashed at the box-office was in 2006, on the occasion of Diwali. Then Salman's 'Jaan-e-Mann' had failed to impress the audience while Shah Rukh's 'Don' was a hit. A Yash Raj spokesperson denies the buzz, saying: "'Sultan' will release on Eid 2016. The shooting begins in November 2015 and wraps up in March 2016. There are no plans to shift the release date."

Kareena Kapoor Khan and other celebs

Kareena Kapoor Khan was spotted in Bandra with best friend Amrita Arora and her husband Shakeel Ladak. Arbaaz Khan was also seen at the intimate get-together.

Kareena Kapoor Khan. Pics/ Yogen Shah

Amrita Arora and Shakeel Ladak

Arbaaz Khan

Box office: 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' becomes Salman's highest grossing film

Salman Khan races past his previous box office records even as Bajrangi Bhaijaan eyes the Rs 300-crore league

Evidently on a record-breaking spree, Salman Khan's Eid release 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' continued its dream run in the second week. Apart from becoming this year's biggest blockbuster so far, it has turned out to be the star's highest grossing film at Rs 240.72 crore. Until now, 'Kick' (2014) was his best BO delivery with domestic figures of Rs 225.1 crore.


Harshaali Malhotra (left) and Salman Khan in 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan'
Trade analyst Amod Mehra says, "Bajrangi created a new record for highest first week collection with Rs 184 crore and by the ninth day of its release, it crossed the Rs 200-crore club. The second weekend numbers are also the highest for any Hindi film. Now, we have to wait and see if it can cross the lifetime business of Aamir Khan's 'pk', which collected over Rs 300 crore in the country."
Reports suggested that in Pakistan, the Kabir Khan-directed film has scooped Rs 38 crore in its first week in Karachi and Islamabad alone, overtaking the collections of their own big-ticket films like 'Bin Roye' and 'Wrong Number', which also released on Eid.
The other film that also kept the box-office coffers ringing was the Hindi version of SS Rajamouli's 'Baahubali'. In its third week, it was "simply unstoppable", as trade expert Taran Adarsh puts it, and has done an overall business of Rs 85.71 crore, even though it was restricted to limited screens and shows.
With these two films keeping the theatres busy, last week's release Masaan could manage only decent collections. "It succeeded in earning critical acclaim and connected with the niche audience in certain multiplexes," adds Mehra. The Cannes-feted film had hit theatres along with 'Aisa Yeh Jahaan', which witnessed depressingly low audience turnout.
Considering the massive rush for 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' and 'Baahubali', the makers of 'Bangistan' were forced to push the release date by a week — to August 7. Terming it a "wise decision", Adarsh says, "It would have clashed with Ajay Devgn's 'Drishyam' this week and the audience would have been divided. Devgn's film would have arguably had an edge over 'Bangistan'. So, it was a good call on the makers' part to shift the release."

Taapsee Pannu to star in Tigmanshu Dhulia's next film?

I hear Taapsee Pannu, who was last seen in the Akshay Kumar-starrer 'Baby' this January, has bagged a Tigmanshu Dhulia film.

Taapsee Pannu

The director was spotted having a long conversation with the actress at their common friend, Amit Sadh's birthday bash on June 5.

Later, he approached her for a role in his quirky comedy on which he is still working.

Tigmanshu is yet to finalise the other actors for the project, but he has apparently locked Taapsee for a meaty role.

Asin turns a Good Samaritan

Asin has taken the onus of educating the daughter of her housing society watchman after she learnt that he had pulled the girl out of school due to financial constraints.

Asin

The actress has been working towards children education and child rights for a long time now. Reminds me of her Kalpana act in 'Ghajini'.

Role reversal for film critics and journos

Are harsher standards set for film critics/ journos who opt for a role reversal?
When Francois Truffant, a renowed French film-critic switched to filmmaking, he said that his background had helped him understand filmmaking as an art well.


A still from 'Bangistan' and Karan Anshuman(inset)
He remarked, "To be a film critic helped me a lot because it's not enough to be a cinephile and to watch a lot of movies. The necessity to write about films pushes you to get better, and forces you to make a mental gymnastic. It's when you have to sum up a screenplay in ten sentences that you realise its weaknesses or its strength." True or not, several crtics have dabbled in filmmaking over the years.
For instance, 'Bangistan', which is up for release next week, marks the debut of film critic Karan Anshuman. Said to be a satire, the film is about two aspiring terrorists, who are brainwashed into becoming human bombs and blowing themselves up at a world peace conference in Poland.
After spending years as film critics, many have explored the other side of cinema. hitlist gives you a lowdown on such film critics who went on to become filmmakers:
Khalid Mohamed
A longtime journalist and a film critic, Khalid began his film career by writing a script for Shyam Benegal's 'Nammo' in 1995. He followed this up by writing screenplays for Benegal's 'Sardari Begum' (1996) and 'Zubeida' (2001).


A still from 'Fiza'. Khalid Mohamed(inset)
His first directorial venture, 'Fiza', hit theatres in 2000. The film was based on Bombay riots of 1992–93 that sparked off in the wake of the destruction of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya and had Hrithik Roshan, Karisma Kapoor and Neha in lead roles.
Although the film did average business at the box-office, it was well received by critics. He then went on to direct films such as 'Tehzeeb' (2003), 'Tareekh' (2003), 'Silsiilay' (2005) and a documentary titled 'Last Irani Chai' (2011).
Minty Tejpal
Having worked in television, journalism and advertising as well as a film critic, Minty Tejpal explored filmmaking with a TV movie, 'Kaam Ka Plot' (2011), which starred Ranvir Shorey, Sandhya Mridul and Vinay Pathak in key roles.


A still from Kaam Ka Plot. Minty Tejpal(inset)
Set in the backdrop of the recession which hit India, this 90-minute film tells the tale of a 36-year-old marketing graduate Dashrath Srivastava (Ranvir), who lies to his wife about being employed. In a twist of fate, he meets a photographer (Sandhya) and what starts off as a budding romance turns into an ugly mess which Dashrath can't escape easily.
Raja Sen
Film-critic Raja Sen's movie 'X-The Film' will reportedly make its way into theatres later this year. Termed as an experimental Indian film, the project is directed by a team of 11 filmmakers including Abhinav Shiv Tiwari, Anu Menon, Nalan Kumarasamy, Hemant Gaba, Pratim D Gupta, Q, Raja Sen, Rajshree Ojha, Sandeep Mohan, Sudhish Kamath and Suparn Verma.


Huma Qureshi in 'X-The Film'. Raja Sen(inset)
In 2013, the directors clarified that the film is not an anthology, but a whole story with the eleven directors making sections of it.
Sudhish Kamath
With an experience of writing on films and entertainment for over 17 years, Kamath dabbled in filmmaking when he produced, directed and wrote a feature-length English film called 'That Four Letter Word' (2006), which revolved around a group of friends at the crossroads of life.


A still from 'The Four Letter Word'. Sudhish Kamath(inset)
The film was one of the first films to be released in the digital format in India and among the first films in the world to be released online free. His second film 'Good Night | Good Morning' starring Manu Narayan and Seema Rahmani was screened at various international film festivals and got a theatrical release in India in 2012. Most recently, Kamath, is part of the 11-member directorial team of the yet-to-be-released film titled 'X-The Film'.
Pratim D Gupta
Journalist, film-critic and screenwriter, Pratim D Gupta got his first break with a Bengali romantic drama, 'Paanch Adhyay' (2012).


A still from 'Paanch Adhyay'. Pratim D Gupta(inset)
The film featured Dia Mirza and Priyanshu Chatterjee in lead roles and revolved around a contemporary Indian couple that finds and loses love over a period of time. The film shifts between the past and the present. 'Paanch Adhyay' was selected as the Centerpiece Premiere at the South Asian International Film Festival in New York and in the New Voice in Indian Cinema section at the Mumbai Film Festival. It also won the Best Film Award at the Kalakar Awards.

When Abhishek Bachchan met his 'Guruji'

Almost eight years after he played the young Abhishek Bachchan in 'Guru' (2007), Sunny Subramanian recently found himself on Junior B's radar.

Abhishek Bachchan and Sunny Subramanian

The 25-year-old, who trained at AR Rahman's music school, composed and sung a track for Jaipur Pink Panthers — the actor's franchise in the Pro-Kabaddi League — and mailed it to Abhi.

A few days later, Sunny found out that his song had become the franchise's anthem. Sunny gushes, "I am so glad Abhishek loved my song. It is my first break and I am elated."

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan listens to hubby Abhishek Bachchan with rapt attention during a Pro Kabaddi League match at the Sawai Mansingh Indoor Stadium in Jaipur on Sunday. Pic/PTI

Abhishek is quick to return the compliment when he says, "He was the young Gurukant Desai in Mani Ratnam's 'Guru', the boy who goes to Turkey and comes back leaving everything. I fondly call him Guruji. Sunny is immensely talented and is someone to watch out for."

Why has Arjun Kapoor jetted off to Bangkok?

Arjun Kapoor leaving for Bangkok to promote a new range of bicycles. Pics/ Yogen Shah

Other celebs spotted

Ritesh Sidhwani taking down the streets on his bicycle.

Richa Chadda, Kiran Rao, Aamir Khan and Vicky Kaushal at a special screening of a recently released movie 'Masaan' starring Richa and Vicky in pivotal roles.

Boman Irani and Tabu were spotted at the airport recently. Tabu was seen in a loose kimono overall and ankle-length denims while Boman was sporting semi-formal attire.

Boman Irani and Tabu

Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover holiday in Maldives

Bollywood's rumoured lovebirds Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover are holidaying in Maldives and going by the pictures shared by them on Instagram, the couple is surely having a gala time!
Bipasha and Karan's friends, including Deanne Panday, have joined the duo on their vacation.

Friends forever @bipashabasu @iamksgofficial ❤ï¸ÂðŸš¶ðŸ»ðŸ‘¯#Maldives

A photo posted by Deanne Panday (@deannepanday) onJul 24, 2015 at 10:56pm PDT

#FriendsForever #Love #Maldives with my darlings @bipashabasu @iamksgofficial 🚶🏻👯❤ï¸Â

A photo posted by Deanne Panday (@deannepanday) onJul 25, 2015 at 4:00am PDT

Was born to be free🏄🏻👙#BeachBum #SandAngel #BeachBabes #BFF @bipashabasu

A photo posted by Deanne Panday (@deannepanday) onJul 25, 2015 at 8:48am PDT

Evening Tea in my heavenly abode! #Maldives ❤ï¸Â

A photo posted by bipashabasu (@bipashabasu) onJul 25, 2015 at 6:33am PDT

Basking in the brilliance of SunðŸÂÂÂÂÂÂŒž

A photo posted by bipashabasu (@bipashabasu) onJul 27, 2015 at 12:51am PDT

To infinity and beyond...

A photo posted by karan singh grover (@iamksgofficial) onJul 26, 2015 at 12:42pm PDT

Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover also celebrated Maldives' 50th year of independence on Sunday.

Privileged to be in Maldives with the gorgeous @bipashabasu to celebrate their 50th year of independence!!! Happy Independence Day Maldives! Thank you for such a warm welcome!

A photo posted by karan singh grover (@iamksgofficial) onJul 25, 2015 at 2:23pm PDT

Bipasha and Karan have often been spotted together after working in the erotic thriller 'Alone'. The couple also celebrated Karan's birthday in Goa with friends on February 23.

Sun Sand Breeze Ocean and Friends❤ï¸Â

A photo posted by bipashabasu (@bipashabasu) onFeb 22, 2015 at 5:53am PST

The actress previously dated John Abraham and Harman Baweja. Karan was earlier married to actress Shraddha Nigam and then dated choreographer Nicole Alvares, before tying the knot with Jennifer, with whom he has now seprated.

Bollywood pays heartfelt tribute to APJ Abdul Kalam

For some, it was his child-like demeanour which made him affable and for some, it was his inspirational vision and work in the field of science which made A.P.J. Abdul Kalam a "universally-loved" Bharat Ratna, who managed to be in politics without being a "politician".

Bollywood celebrities paid heartfelt tributes to the former president, who suddenly passed away on Monday evening in Shillong.

Several names from the Hindi film industry took to Twitter to remember their moments with Kalam, and to bid their 'aakhri salaam'.

Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. Pics/Santa Banta

Here's what they tweeted:

Amitabh Bachchan: A brilliant mind, a child like demeanour, simple caring and loved by all .. ex POI passes away .. PRAYERS.

Shah Rukh Khan: So sad to hear about the Gurdaspur terror attack & now the news of Dr. Kalam's demise. May Allah bring peace upon all.

Salman Khan: Never had the opportunity to meet Kalam saab but always loved and respected him. As scientist and as president, Kalam saab was a true inspiration for many generations of Indians. When your heart says you should meet someone, don't delay. I always wanted to meet Kalam saab and I should have made the effort. My loss. I will miss Kalam saab. India will miss him.

Priyanka Chopra: "They say Good & Great are seldom in the same man. Dr Kalam was the epitome of both. A big loss for India. May his beautiful soul Rest in Peace."

A.R. Rahman: Dr. Kalam, when you became the president, you gave the word 'hope' a new meaning for Indians... Today, we have lost a great leader who inspired our young minds to feel that we live in the greatest nation on the Earth and that each one of them can achieve great things... May the creator lead you to heaven.

Anupam Kher: Thank you Dr. Kalam for your wisdom, for your inspirational life, for your generosity, for your patriotism & for your teachings. #MyHero

Kabir Bedi: Saluting the memory of APJ Abdul Kalam, India's most loved President, a truly inspirational Bharat Ratna. RIP @APJAbdulKalam.

Sajid Khan: He was in politics,but was never a politician..R.I.P. APJ ABDUL KALAM SAAB...a great human being.

Meiyang Chang: Few people are admired so universally. Thank you Dr. Abdul Kalam for inspiring us. And now you fly on Wings of Fire to your final abode. RIP.

Mohit Chauhan: Dr #Kalam the real rockstar and a true icon for millions of Indians esp the youth... we shall miss ur benign presence and ur vision. RIP sirYou will live in our hearts forever sir. And forever inspire us. RIP Kalam saheb.

Abhishek Bachchan: RIP Dr. Kalam. Huge loss to us all.

Divya Dutta: Not one person Awho's not tweeting abt dr kalam! A truly loved n admired person!! By all! Unanimously!!! Rare n special! RIP sir!

Shreya Ghoshal: Dr. Abdul Kalam inspired millions with his intellect n vision. You taught our nation that knowledge is power. We are indebted to you. RIP.

Neha Dhupia: An author, a teacher, a scientist and one of the best presidents India has ever seen... RIP Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

Madhur Bhandarkar: I consider myself fortunate that I had the honor & the privilege of receiving two National Awards at the hands of Shri Abdul Kalam. RIP, Sir.

Kunal Kemmu: A great mind and an inspiration to millions. Keep shining your light from the other side you are our brightest star. APJ Abdul Kalam - RIP.

Farhan Akhtar: Deeply saddened to hear about the demise of one of the most inspirational Indians of our time, former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. RIP.

Ayushmann Khurrana: The silver lining of this era. An epitome of righteousness, intelligence & wisdom. A rare gem. A big loss. Thanks for everything sir. #Kalam.

Anushka Sharma: Very sad to hear about the passing of APJ Abdul Kalam. Loss of an inspiring visionary and a wonderful soul. May his soul RIP.

Sujoy Ghosh: RIP Dr. Kalam. In respect of one the greatest Indian to walk this earth.

Adnan Sami: Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam loved every element of life. Amongst many things, he preached "Unity of Minds through Music". RIP.

Lara Dutta Bhupathi: RIP APJ Kalam. A visionary, a man of honour and Indias pride. Salute! #Respect

Sushmita Sen: What a glorious life!!Greatness lead by example!!#Respect#Salute d life n divine grace of Mr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam #Godspeed

Manoj Bajpayee: His contribution in putting India on top has been immense incomparable. We bow down to true son of this nation. RIP Kalam sahib!

Esha Gupta turns vegan

A staunch supporter of animal rights, Esha Gupta has decided on a "green" diet besides giving up milk and milk products. The sexy starlet was contemplating turning vegan since a long time and feels proud to have finally done it.

Esha Gupta

Esha Gupta is so happy with her vegan diet that she's encouraging many of her colleagues to turn vegan. She says, "Going vegan is the best thing one can do to help stop animal suffering, protect the environment and safeguard one's own health. I want to share this wonderful feeling with everybody I know."

Watch Akshay Kumar, Sidharth Malhotra in the gritty 'Brothers Anthem'

Makers of 'Brothers' have released the video of a new song titled 'Brothers Anthem' featuring Akshay Kumar and Sidharth Malhotra. The song showcases the training the lead characters undergo to test their strength and prepare for the final fight.

Watch 'Brothers Anthem'

The number is crooned by Vishal Dadlani and composed by Atul-Ajay.

As soon as the song was released online, #BrothersAnthem started trending on Twitter.

Before releasing the video, a few stills of Akshay and Sidharth from the song were unveiled. Check them out below:

Picture courtesy: Film's Twitter account @Brothers2015

Picture courtesy: Film's Twitter account @Brothers2015

Picture courtesy: Film's Twitter account @Brothers2015

Picture courtesy: Film's Twitter account @Brothers2015

Directed by Karan Malhotra, the film is an official Hindi adaptation of the Hollywood film 'Warriors' and tells the story of two estranged brothers.

(Click here to watch the trailer of 'Brothers')

The film, which also stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Jackie Shroff and Shefali Shah, is slated to release on August 14.

Sanjay Mishra turns live entertainer for 600-plus audience

When the screening of 'Masaan' in Benaras (the film's backdrop) was delayed by two hours due to technical issues, veteran actor Sanjay Mishra turned entertainer for the 600-plus people at the theatre.

Sanjay Mishra

Mishra, who plays Richa Chadda's conservative father in the critically-acclaimed film, went up on stage and shared some fun anecdotes from his life with the audience. His co-actor Varun Grover soon joined him in engaging the attendees with their sense of humour.

"The film started and then stopped and didn't run for over an hour. So everyone started saying that we need to keep the audience entertained. So when I took to the stage, I introduced myself as an actor to a live audience for the first time ever. It was a lovely experience," says Sanjay Mishra.

Why is Suniel Shetty doing less films?

Mumbai: Actor Suniel Shetty says he is content doing a less number of films as long as they are qualitative and get a decent release.

Suniel was speaking at an event as the brand ambassador of the 'Street Smart - Street Safe' initiative of the Mumbai traffic police, where he highlighted the importance of safe driving and of following traffic rules.

Suniel Shetty

On his upcoming film projects, he said: "There are two to three projects in consideration, but it would be better to talk about it only when it comes at the point of release. I'm doing less number of films because I want that I do only those kinds of films which are well-made, but at the same time are well-released."

Last year, he was seen in two films - "Koyelaanchal" and "Desi Kattey" - both of which failed to make any impact at the box office. He is also eagerly awaiting the release of his daughter Athiya's acting debut in "Hero".

Kangana learning ballet dancing, sword fighting, horse riding for 'Rangoon'

As we know, Kangana Ranaut is playing a Broadway star Julia in her next film Rangoon being directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and being produced by Sajid Nadiadwala.

Kangana is not just one of the finest actors we have, but she's also a perfectionist who wants to get into the skin of her character fully. She already spent a couple of weeks at Broadway to observe them closely and now, she has a trainer from the US who is training her in ballet dancing. InRangoon,she is also required to do a few scenes in sword fighting and horse riding.

So, while she has got a trainer for sword fighting from Kerala, she has a trainer fromJaipurforhorse riding.Kangana loves challenging herself and we can be sure that she must be loving every bit of this.

Ajay Devgn and Remo D'Souza in a two-hero action-dance film

Ajay Devgn's next is Baadshaho followed by Shivaay, in which he is both the director and lead actor.We have learnt from a reliable source that Ajay has also decided to produce a film to be directed by Remo D'Souza that will be a two-hero film.

If you are wondering what Ajay, who is known to have two left feet, is doing in a Remo D'Souza film, well, he is doing action as this film will be a dance film with action in it. While we still don't know who the other hero will be, we do hope that Remo will manage to get Ajay to also dance in the film.

Incidentally, Remo is currently shootingFlying Jatwith Tiger Shroff and Jacqueline Fernandez, post which he has locked a film with Bhushan Kumar. We assume that Remo will take up Ajay's film only after completing his other two projects.

Kabir Khan coming up with 'Phantom', an edgy thriller

Director Kabir Khan is on a roll. After his blockbuster Bajrangi Bhaijaan, his next espionage thriller,Phantom,that deals with global terrorism in Pakistan has some jaw-dropping action.The director, who is known for imaginatively bringing focus to political issues through some realistic storytelling, has shifted focus to the Saif Ali Khan-Katrina Kaif starrer.

Kabir says, "After directing a film likeBajrangi Bhaijaan,a story I wanted to tell, I am coming up withPhantom,which is an edgy thriller. Both are very different in treatment and deal with contrasting aspects of the same issue." The trailer that was launched last week has received a favourable response online and quite naturally, the producers are in a happy place.

Producer Sajid Nadiadwala says, "Kabir Khan is one of the finest directors and storytellers in the country. We're very proud and happy to work with him on a film likePhantom."

Phantom, produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Siddharth Roy Kapur, and presented by UTV Motion Pictures and Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, releases August 28.

Fans cheer tax free 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan'

Movie ticket prices were always lower in Noida than in Delhi, attracting a section of the Delhi audience too.

And now, our Noida neighbours can watch Bajrangi Bhaijaan for ridiculously low rates, since the UP government has made the film tax-free in that state. Cinema halls in Noida have been crowded with Bajrangi fans since Monday, making a beeline for tickets that are now 40% cheaper than before. Never mind that it's been 10 days since the film released - the movie has been running houseful. And Noida's cinema hall owners say that even though the rates were implemented late, the film will enjoy a good run, with cine-goers watching it multiple times because of slashed prices.

Tickets are 40% cheaper now Yogesh Raizada, corporate head, Wave Cinemas, says, "We had to wait for the government's letter, and even our Lucknow officials didn't get any notification. We can't reduce the price on our own. So we had to wait till Monday. Now, the tickets will be 40% cheaper."

Tinku Singh, group president and chief strategy officer, SRS Cinemas, says, "On Saturday night, we got a letter from the government authority to remove entertainment tax fromBajrangi Bhaijaan,and simultaneously got instructions from our Lucknow office. We know that the announcement was made last week, but the notification took time to reach our office. Otherwise, the weekend shows would have gotten a massive response. Even now, not only Noidawallahs, but people from Delhi and Gurgaon will also travel to Noida-Ghaziabad to watch the film."

Producers applaud government's move

Film industry insiders are all praise for the UP government for taking this step. Mukesh Bhatt, president, National Guild of Producers, says, "We applaud the UP government's step. It will make the film affordable for the audience. Unlike Delhi, UP government has provided tax exemptions a number of times, which is a healthy sign for the growth of our industry in the state."

Not only producers, but distributors are also applauding the move. Joginder Mahajan, a distributor, says, "Tax exemptions are one of the reasons why the profit of cinema halls is higher in UP as compared to Delhi. And that becomes more evident when you compare the slashed ticket rates of Noida to the current ticket rates in Delhi - the difference is more than Rs 150-180."

Paid Rs 800 in Delhi, now ticket prices are just Rs 90 in Noida

Salman fans say that now they can watch the movie multiple times, without thinking about the budget. Bhavan Arora, a corporate lawyer, says, "For me, it was first day, first show. But I paid Rs 800 (gold-class, first-day, first-show) for the ticket in PVR Select City Walk, and now the rates are as low as Rs 90 in Noida!Itna sasta multiplex ticket toh maine socha bhi nahin tha.I think I will go for the film again now. I'm sure the film will run for another two-three weeks,toh main har week ek-do shows dekh hi loonga!"

Shimit Singh, a DU student, adds, "I loved Salman, I loved the film, and I loved Munni. I watched the film at PVR Sangam in Delhi and paid Rs 350 for the night show. I have no regrets because it's worth it. Now that the rates have been slashed, I will watch two-three more shows."

Zaveri Bazar traders, BJP bay for Salman

Salman Khan's sympathetic comments on 1993 blasts convict Yakub Memon continue to evoke heartburn despite his apology. The BJP youth wing has urged the state to cancel the actor's bail in the hit-and-run case. The plea is supported by goldsmiths of Zaveri Bazar, some of whom are calling for a boycott of his films.

"We have written to governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao to exercise his special powers and cancel Salman Khan's bail. Our demand was conveyed by BJP MLA Ashish Shelar. How can a convict who is himself out on bail question the legal verdict over a convicted terrorist," said Ganesh Pandey, Mumbai president of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha. Pandey had led a protest march outside the actor's home in Galaxy apartment in Bandra on Sunday.

Pandey drew vocal support from various businessmen in Zaveri Bazar. The hub of Mumbai's bullion trade has been targeted by anti-national elements on three occasions, beginning with 1993 then 2003 and again in 2011.

In 1993, a scooter laden with 16 kg of RDX was parked outside goldsmith Kanaya Kakad's store. "We were lucky it did not explode, but a car bomb blew a few yards away which killed scores of people. We saw dismembered bodies strewn about the gully. Is Salman really an Indian, I wonder, when I see his irresponsible statements. The verdict against Yakub Memon is not communal, it is merely punishment for a convicted criminal. I think the public should boycott Khan's films," said Kakad.

Kumar Jain, vice-president of the Mumbai Jewellers' Association, said, "Monday's brazen attack on a police station in Gurdaspur proves how carefully one must speak in public domain. How can an actor who is a role model for millions show sympathy for a convict?"

Deepika and Ranbir recollect past togeather

The first look of Tamasha was leaked to Mumbai Mirror. In the picture, Deepika and Ranbir look radiant and carefree. The picture, from a shoot in Corsica, reiterates the easy camaraderie that the two, who were once in a relationship, share, despite having moved on in real life. A source has been quoted in the Mumbai Mirror report as saying that, "The chemistry which was evident duringYeh Jawaani Hai Deewaniis sizzling again and the happiness is reflected on their faces."Tamasha's script has been heavily guarded but it has been learnt that RK plays a free-spirited nomad in the film who likes to spread happiness and wanders from place to place. Along the way, he bumps into Deepika's character, who, like him, is a fan of the French comic series,Asterix, which is set in Corsica. Together, they set out to explore the picturesque French island, staging dramatic plays and falling passionately in love. "It's a journey which is some what close to their real life journey as couple and individuals," adds the source.

It is being rumoured that many questioned Deepika Padukone's timing of thePikusuccess bash that came within days of Ranbir Kapoor'sBombay Velvetdebacle. In a Mumbai Mirror report, she insists that the party was a last-minute idea, with calls going out only the night before. She points out that all theBombay Velvetmakers, Anurag Kashyap, Madhu Mantena and Vikas Bahl-were there. She has been quoted in the report as saying that, "Only Vikramaditya Motwane was away in Cannes. I also invited Ranbir and Katrina (Kaif) but I can understand them not wanting to party since I've gone through similar phases in my career. I will never do anything to hurt Ranbir. He'd talk to me about Bombay Velvet during Tamasha, admitted it was a difficult character even for a brilliant actor like him. I've yet to see the film but it belonged to friends of mine and I empathise with their pain, I think the negativity surrounding it is unfair." [sic]

Deepika has also claimed that she will always work with Ranbir.

When unexpected turned into reality for Juhi

Actress Juhi Chawla, who has completed more than 25 years in the industry, says that when at the beginning of her career, she never imagined that she'll have such a long innings in Bollywood.

Talking to IANS, Juhi said: "My journey has been wonderfully long! And I am today amazed that I am still around, relevant and visible, which I never even imagined 25 years ago. I just had no clue that I would be around for so long!

"I am really grateful and happy for this. So overall, my journey has been very eventful, and I am very glad that I have been in the movies! I mean once one has worked here, the highs, the lows, laughter, tears, insecurities, self-centeredness, fame, adulation, heartache, hardwork, and just everything has been fantastic! It has all been a great lesson in life."



The manner in which Juhi has managed her film commitments and business endeavours while taking care of her family has been commendable. "Well, sometimes it's been a little overwhelming, but now I make sure to just take one thing at a time. I try not to overcrowd my whole schedule, so that's why I pick and choose what I do."

Her performance in a negative role in "Gulaab Gang" was appreciated with Juhi even being nominated for Filmfare best supporting actor. She will now be seen as a teacher in upcoming educational drama "Chalk N Duster".

Swastika's to give a unique treat to Dibakar

Swastika Mukherjee is keen to show her Bengali film 'Anubrato Bhalo Achho?' to director Dibakar Banerjee.

The Bengali star who was last seen in Dibakar's Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! will be seen in Partha Sen's 'Anubrato Bhalo Achho?'.

This is a very highly acclaimed film and is doing rounds of film festivals. It has won several awards at various film festivals. This is the first Indian film to win an award at Madrid Film festival.



The film is a very emotional story and Swastika is keen to know Dibakar's thoughts on it.

During her shooting days with Dibakar's she had had an elaborated discussion about the film and her role.

The film stars Ritwick Chakraborty and Debolina Dutta as well. It's releasing on 7th August.