'Big Brother Australia' contestant Priya Malik to enter 'Bigg Boss 9'

New Delhi: Priya Malik, who was part of the Australian version of controversial show 'Big Brother', will be seen entering the 'Bigg Boss 9' house as a wild card entrant.
She says her experience at the international show will be an "advantage" for her here.
Priya Malik. Pic/YouTube
Priya Malik. Pic/YouTube
Asked if she was jittery about entering the 'Bigg Boss 9' house, Priya, who is popularly known as Posh Spice of Australian TV told IANS over phone from Lonavla: "I am not jittery at all! In fact, I have been on 'Big Brother' (Australia), which is a similar format, if not identical. I think that puts me at an advantage."
Priya, who is a high school teacher in Adelaide, has her roots in Dehradun. She was part of 'Big Brother Australia' in 2014, and is the fourth wild card entry to enter 'Bigg Boss 9'.
She says her "strategy is to not to be afraid of showing who I truly am unless I am Kishwar (Merchant) because that's not what everyone wants to see."
The 28-year-old says she doesn't have any "favourites" in the house and dislikes maximum housemates, who are a mix of showbiz celebrities.
"I don't have any favourites this season... I'm talking as an audience. The list of people I dislike is a lot longer than the people I like in the house at the moment.
"Other than Rochelle Rao, I do like things about her... Then Keith Sequeira. I like him if he is coming back, and I like Digangana Suryavanshi as there is nothing to dislike (about her); she has done nothing, she's like a little statue and so I don't mind a statue," quipped Priya, who has been living in Australia for the past seven years.
While on 'Big Bother' in Australia last year, she reportedly faced severe racial backlash which even escalated to death threats long after getting evicted from the show. Priya has faced bullying and has been trolled on social media.
Asked who according to her doesn't deserve to be in the house, Priya said: "Rimi Sen doesn't deserve to be in the house. It's really insulting to sign a show and to not be a part of it. I'm going to tell her like it is."
The show features celebrity contestants in a game of survival wherein they are locked in an isolated house for around three months sans the luxuries they are used to, under 24X7 camera surveillance.

Tanishaa Mukerji shoots for 'Fear Factor -- Khatron Ke Khiladi' in Argentina

Tanishaa Mukerji is currently shooting for reality show, 'Fear Factor -- Khatron Ke Khiladi' in Argentina.
The actress shared a picture with co-contestants Sidharth Shukla, Vivan Bhatena, Deepti Nayak and Mukti Mohan on social media.
Tanishaa Mukerji
The channel has issued a strict embargo on divulging information on what’s happening in Argentina as the show goes on air next year.
Hopefully, Tanishaa did not have to do some tough stunts for posting snapshots.

'Bigg Boss 9' Day 42: Deepika Padukone becomes 'Bigg Boss' for a day

Deepika Padukone appeared on a 'Bigg Boss 9' to promote her upcoming film 'Tamasha'.
Salman Khan, Deepika Padukone, Bigg Boss 9, Bigg Boss Nau
Deepika Padukone with 'Bigg Boss 9' host Salman Khan
The actress was originally supposed to co-promote 'Tamasha' with co-star Ranbir Kapoor but the latter reportedly opted out.
Salman Khan, Deepika Padukone, Bigg Boss 9, Bigg Boss Nau, Matargashti
Deepika Padukone and Salman Khan perform to the 'Tamasha' track, 'Matargashti'
Salman Khan, Deepika Padukone, Bigg Boss 9, Bigg Boss Nau, Main Hoon Hero Tera
Deepika Padukone and Salman Khan dancing to 'Main Hoon Hero Tera'
Deepika Padukone and Salman Khan entertained audiences and viewers at home by dancing to the 'Tamasha' number 'Matargashti' and 'Main Hoon Hero Tera', a song from Salman Khan's productional venture 'Hero', which starred Sooraj Pancholi and Athiya Shetty in lead roles. Salman had crooned the lyrics to 'Main Hoon Hero Tera' himself.
Deepika Padukone, Bigg Boss 9, Bigg Boss for a day
Deepika Padukone becomes 'Bigg Boss for a Day'
Deepika Padukone, Kishwer Merchant, Digangana Suryavanshi, Aman Verma, Bigg Boss 9
Deepika Padukone with 'Bigg Boss 9' contestants Kishwer Merchant, Digangana Suryavanshi and Aman Verma
Deepika Padukone, Rishabh, Aman Verma, Bigg Boss 9
The male contestants of the 'Bigg Boss 9' prepare to woo Deepika Padukone
Following that, Deepika was declared, 'Bigg Boss for a Day' of the 'Bigg Boss 9' house.
Deepika Padukone, Bigg Boss 9, Aman Verma
Aman Verma and Deepika Padukone during the task
Deepika Padukone, Rishabh, Bigg Boss 9
Rishabh and Deepika Padukone during the task
The male housemates were set a task in which they attempted to woo her affections. Housemates Aman Verma and Rishabh participated in this task and the winner would bag a date with the actress.

Are Censors hampering the market for Hollywood films in India?

James Bond's latest outing faced the Indian Censor Board's snip. Will the decision hamper the market for international films in India?
Several Bollywood filmmakers have faced a tough time dealing with the objection raised over content in films by The Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Be it inserting anti-smoking advertisements in film, chopping intimate scenes or removing a few words or dialogues, the CBFC’s actions have raised many eyebrows time and again with their decisions. The latest film that has come under the Censor Board’s scanner is the new James Bond franchise, 'Spectre'. The makers of the film had to cut short the length of a kissing scene and remove a few words like ba**s and as****e, in order to get a U/A certificate for the film.
The Board does not want any bikini scenes in Colombiana, starring Zoe Saldana

The Board does not want any bikini scenes in 'Colombiana', starring Zoe Saldana
In the past

In 2013, renowned filmmaker Woody Allen, too, had a tough time dealing with the Censor Board. Woody was asked to include an anti-smoking advertisement in his film, 'Blue Jasmine'. The filmmaker had refused and his film did not release in India. It was a loss for exhibitors and distributors in India. However, the James Bond team had to oblige as they apparently didn’t have the time to approach the Revising Committee of the CBFC.
“I personally do not endorse the idea of whatever the makers of 'Spectre' had been asked to edit or remove. I am a member of the revising committee and the examining committee has taken the decision. The makers could have approached the revising committee to seek help, but they didn’t. I think the entire Censor Board should not be blamed. There are people in the system who do not understand cinema and are implementing stupid rules and because of them, the entire body is being blamed,” says Nandini Sardesai of the CBFC, adding, “I have requested filmmakers to approach the Information and Broadcasting Ministry to discuss their grievances and bring a change in the way the Censor Board works today.”
Knock Knock, directed by Eli Roth, released in the US in October, but  is stuck with the Censor Board in India

'Knock Knock', directed by Eli Roth, released in the US in October, but is stuck with the Censor Board in India
Another film stuck

'Spectre' is not the only film that’s faced censor trouble in the recent past. 'Knock Knock', directed by Eli Roth, had released in the USA in October, but is still stuck with the Censor Board. “I had edited out a few nudity scenes to get a certificate from the Censor Board. But, the examining committee had problems with a few scenes. So, I went to the revising committee and it cleared my film without any cuts. However, I am yet to receive a certificate for the film. Its release has been pushed by two months. I am hoping to get a certificate at the earliest and planning to release the film in January 2016. But, the pirated version of the film is already available online,” says Manish Dutt, who has the rights to distribute Knock Knock in India.
Dutt has invested $2,000 to distribute the film in India and has suffered a huge loss. In fact, he had also faced problems with the makers of the film, Knock Knock. “The makers are unhappy as I edited out a few nude scenes. They did not want the film’s creativity to be affected. But what do I do when the Censor Board here reacts so differently from what they expect? I had invested $2,000 and want to recover the amount. I had no choice,” explains Dutt.
Loss for audience

In the whole conflict, it’s Indian audiences that will be affected. The viewers might just be restricted from viewing global cinemas in the big screen. “International filmmakers are very particular about whatever is there in the film and are against any force which affects their creativity. In the past, filmmakers have not released their films in India. And if the Censor Board’s approach remains the same, there is a possibility of more films not being released here. The audiences will not get to experience movies in the big screen,” says film exhibitor, Akshaye Rathi.
Interestingly, it will also lead to a growing market for piracy. “In this day and age of digitalisation, if people want to watch a movie and if it is not releasing in theatres, they will download the pirated version. This will not help anyone. There should be a change in the system to avoid such a thing,” adds Rathi.
Stephanie Sigman and Daniel Craig in Spectre which faced censor issues

Stephanie Sigman and Daniel Craig in 'Spectre' which faced censor issues
A dying market?

While it is believed that international filmmakers do not encourage any kind of censorship that affects a film’s creative appeal, people in the trade fear that the growing market for international films in India might just take a beating. “Hollywood filmmakers will not oblige any kind of censorship which they would believe unnecessary. They will not release films in India if it continues. It will become extremely difficult for distributors to function in such a market,” says Dutt.
However, it has been a growing market so far. “Many Hollywood films have done extremely well in India. There is a lot of audience for international movies and it will only increase. But, Censor Board troubles can affect the growing market. International filmmakers will not mind not releasing films in India because it’s not the biggest market, but it will be a huge loss for us,” says Rathi.
Against censorship

Filmmakers in Bollywood, too, believe that the Censor Board’s approach will affect creativity and market for films in India. However, it seems that there isn’t much that can be done. “The I&B Ministry is not ready to have a dialogue. We have approached them to discuss our concerns over Censor Board issues, but the ministry has not responded,” says film producer Mukesh Bhatt.
Expressing his grievances over the Censor Board’s decisions, Bhatt says, “India is a miniscule market and if they (international filmmakers) feel that there creative space is getting destroyed in the country which is not growing with the changing times, they won’t release films here. Renowned filmmakers from across the globe who have certain respectability for the content that they make will not get into discussion with the authorities here. If a kiss is not pornography and not a threat to national security, then why is the Censor Board cutting it? While this country talks about being progressive, its actions are regressive.”
Another independent filmmaker Onir also echoes Bhatt’s sentiments . “We have seen kissing scenes even in Bollywood films. But, the issues that the examining committee raises are not acceptable. It’s depriving the audience of a complete experience of watching a film and deters filmmakers to release films in India.”
Talking about the losses that the Indian market is facing because of Censor Board issues, Jiten Hemdev, president, Foreign Film Chamber of India, says, “When our audiences know that the Censor Board here has cut out a few scenes, they do not watch the film in theatres. They instead opt for a no-cut online and it is easily available since it hasn’t been edited abroad. We suffer huge losses because of it.” Hemdev himself has faced a censorship problem recently. “A few days ago, I had gone to the Censor Board to get a U/A certificate for the film, Colombiana, starring Zoe Saldana. I am distributing the film in the South. But, the censor folk asked me to remove a scene that shows an actress in a bikini. I am surprised.”

'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo' actress Swara Bhaskar bags jewellery brand deal

Swara Bhaskar

Swara Bhaskar
After being swathed in sparklers in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Swara Bhaskar has received a jewellery endorsement offer.
She will showcase the brand’s bridal wear collection and be the face of their wedding season campaign. Buzz is that she is being paid a hefty fee for it.

Ranbir Kapoor willing to do Pakistani films

Lahore: Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor would like to work in a Pakistani movie, given it is a "quality" project with a great story.
Ranbir and Deepika Padukone interacted with the Pakistani media via a video conference arranged here on Friday as a part of the promotional drive for their film "Tamasha" that hits both Indian and Pakistani theatres on November 27.
Ranbir Kapoor
Ranbir Kapoor
The 33-year-old "Barfi!" star said he was open to the idea of working in a Pakistani film. "I can look at a quality project with a great story."
"My family has always worked for the welfare of cinema. It is true that the Indian film industry is bigger compared to Pakistan s industry. The promotion and well-being of film culture in the region is the responsibility of local artists," he said during the video chat There has been a speculation in the Pakistani entertainment industry about a possible appearance by the duo at their film's Karachi premiere.
The young star noted that his family elders have in the past paid numerous visits to Pakistan for both professional and personal reasons.
"Even I want to visit. There are so many cities and locations that I have to see," Ranbir said. He added there was no competition between Pakistan and India films and both should work for the promotion of film culture in the region.
The actor hopes "Tamasha" would turn the tide as it is does not have a cliched story and music. "The audience will not forget the film's music for years to come." Ranbir said he would love to see Pakistani audiences turn up in large numbers for his film and make it a big success.
Deepika, 29, said the Imtiaz Ali-directed movie is a family film with a very interesting story that has something for all sections of the society. The actress said it is a film, which has a strong portrayal of a woman, who never compromises on truth and added
she was keen to see how women like the film, especially her role.

Ranbir Kapoor feels Censor Board getting too strict

New Delhi: Ranbir Kapoor said that creative freedom gets curbed when censor board removes anything that even remotely sounds morally abrasive.
Notably, Ranbir's upcoming movie 'Tamasha' with Deepika Padukone has got some of its scenes deleted due to the usage of few mild abusive words.
Ranbir Kapoor
Ranbir Kapoor. Pic/ Santa Banta
The 'Rockstar' actor mentioned that obviously its censor board's responsibility to balance movies and social values, but sometimes it gets too radical and strict because of which creativity gets hampered.
The 33-year-old actor added that censor board had no problem with his upcoming Imtiaz Ali's flick's kissing or love making scenes.
'Tamasha' is slated to hit the theatre on November 27.

Has Harman Baweja gained some weight?

A size-zero Lokhandwala birdie spotted Harman Baweja recently.
The actor appeared to have gained a bit of weight with greys in his hair.
Harman Baweja
He turned a year older last week, and it seems Harman has let himself go.
After 'Dishkiyaaon' (2014) and his break up with Bipasha Basu, things have gone downhill.

Why Richa Chadha is in a dilemma

Richa Chadha may be excited about heading to Morocco for the Marrakech Film Festival where she is on jury, but the actress has been spending sleepless nights over her wardrobe.
Richa Chadda
Richa Chadda
The festival kicks off on December 5. Apart from her shooting commitments, she has been overseeing the costumes for various outings.
She knows she will be stepping out mainly in Indian wear, but to choose between a sari, lehenga or Indo-fusion, is proving to baffling.

Shah Rukh Khan, Tamannah bond over their love for coffee

Tamannah Bhatia recently shared screen space with Shah Rukh Khan in a television commercial for an online clothing brand.
Their love for coffee made them bond instantly.
Tamannah Bhatia and Shah Rukh Khan
During shoot breaks, the two spoke about their coffee fixation and when SRK told her, he had seen her film, Baahubali: The Beginning, among the few he caught, there was one more round of the cuppa because Tamannah had reason to cheer.

Injured John Abraham overseeing production of his next 'Rocky Handsome'


John Abraham had been using his rest period (he is recuperating after a knee injury) by handling matters for his next production, 'Rocky Handsome'.
John Abraham
The actor has been working on the posters and trailers of the action flick, directed by Nishikant Kamat and starring Shruti Haasan.

Is Ranbir the next 'Secular' Kapoor of Bollywood?


Is Ranbir the next 'Secular' Kapoor of Bollywood?


Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor would like to work in a Pakistani movie, given it is a "quality" project with a great story.

Ranbir and Deepika Padukone interacted with the Pakistani media via a video conference arranged here on Friday as a part of the promotional drive for their film "Tamasha" that hits both Indian and Pakistani theatres on November 27.

The 33-year-old "Barfi!" star said he was open to the idea of working in a Pakistani film. "I can look at a quality project with a great story."

"My family has always worked for the welfare of cinema. It is true that the Indian film industry is bigger compared to Pakistan s industry. The promotion and well- being of film culture in the region is the responsibility of local artists," he said during the video chat There has been a speculation in the Pakistani entertainment industry about a possible appearance by the duo at their film's Karachi premiere.

The young star noted that his family elders have in the past paid numerous visits to Pakistan for both professional and personal reasons.

"Even I want to visit. There are so many cities and locations that I have to see," Ranbir said. He added there was no competition between Pakistan and India films and both should work for the promotion of film culture in the region.



The actor hopes "Tamasha" would turn the tide as it is does not have a cliched story and music. "The audience will not forget the film's music for years to come." Ranbir said he would love to see Pakistani audiences turn up in large numbers for his film and make it a big success.

Deepika, 29, said the Imtiaz Ali-directed movie is a family film with a very interesting story that has something for all sections of the society. The actress said it is a film, which has a strong portrayal of a woman, who never compromises on truth and added she was keen to see how women like the film, especially her role.

Big B donates 'Silsila' jacket to needy for winter

Big B donates 'Silsila' jacket to needy for winter


A jacket worn by Amitabh Bachchan in his iconic 1981 film "Silsila" has been donated by the megastar to the needy to battle the chilly winter.

The jacket is one among the many personal clothes that Big B has parted with for a noble cause. He has given them away to NGO Clothes Box Foundation, which makes use of people's old clothes for the poor.

"Giving to the needy my personal clothes... supporting the Clothes Box initiative by these two gems from Delhi," Amitabh tweeted on Friday night, with a photograph featuring two men.

With the hashtag '#BigBkaGift', the cinematic icon further wrote: "That jacket is the one I wore in 'Silsila'! Given to the needy for coming cold weather," he added.



The "Zanjeer" actor is known for supporting many initiatives that include polio eradication campaign and tuberculosis-free Haryana drive.

On the silver screen, the actor will next be seen in "Wazir" directed by Bejoy Nambiar. The film, which is slated to hit the theatres on January 8, 2016 also stars Farhan Akhtar, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Aditi Rao Hydari and John Abraham.

Shabana Azmi invites crowd for Nirbhaya's tribute

Shabana Azmi invites crowd for Nirbhaya's tribute


Veteran actress and social activist Shabana Azmi has urged the public to come in "large numbers" to pay tribute to the December 16, 2012 Delhi gang rape victim at Jantar Mantar here.

The tribute for the victim who was named as Nirbhaya by the masses, will be held on December 16.

"Met Nirbhaya's parents today. They are organising a shradhanjali (tribute) for her on 16 December at Jantar Mantar. Please come in large numbers," the veteran actress tweeted on Friday night.

The 2012 Delhi gang rape case involved a rape and fatal assault that occurred on December 16 in Munirka in South Delhi. The incident involved a 23-year-old girl, who was beaten and gang raped in a private bus in which she was travelling with a male friend. She later died in a Singapore hospital where she was airlifted for specialised treatment.

Anupam Kher finds it challenging to perform with child actor


Anupam Kher finds it challenging to perform with child actor


Veteran actor Anupam Kher, who even runs a film school, says he found it "challenging" to perform a scene with child actor Maxwell Jenkins in "The Head Hunters Calling".

Maxwell Jenkins is famous for his role in the TV series "Sense8".

Anupam shared a photograph of himself with Jenkins, who has called the thespian a "fine actor".

"Performing a scene with @MaxwellJenkins8 was a challenge. He is such a fine actor. #TheHeadHuntersCalling #Toronto," Anupam tweeted on Saturday.

Jenkins said that Anupam is "One of the nicest people on the planet" and that he is "honoured" to work with the 60-year-old.



"One of the nicest people on the planet. @anupampkher #onlocation #setlife #luckyme #greatman #thisis10 #toronto" Jenkins tweeted.

"Completely honoured to work with this man! @AnupamPkher #greatman #luckyme," he added.

Anupam is currently shooting in Toronto for "The Head Hunters Calling", which has Hollywood actor Gerard Butler in a key role. The Indian actor is reportedly essaying an Indian-American paediatric oncologist in the movie.

Besides being a good dad, Ajay is great son too


Besides being a good dad, Ajay is great son too


Ajay Devgn, who has been shooting for his directorial venture, 'Shivaay', in Mussoorie, had to rush back to Mumbai yesterday.

The actor's father, Veeru Devgn, took ill and needed to be hospitalised. Ajay had wrapped up Shivaay's shoot in Mussoorie and was supposed to head to Hyderabad for the next schedule, but flew to Mumbai instead. He headed straight to the hospital in Bandra last evening from the airport where his father, a former stunt director, has been admitted to the ICU.

Things started rolling for Swara after 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'?

Things started rolling for Swara after 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'?

After being swathed in sparklers in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Swara Bhaskar has received a jewellery endorsement offer.

She will showcase the brand's bridal wear collection and be the face of their wedding season campaign. Buzz is that she is being paid a hefty fee for it.

When Deepika's wish turned into Ranbir's command!


When Deepika's wish turned into Ranbir's command!


Deepika Padukone's wish has turned to be Ranbir Kapoor's command! When the actress expressed her desire to travel by train, her "Tamasha" co-star decided to make it a reality.

The duo has been going all out with promotions of their forthcoming release. They were to travel to Delhi as part of the film's promotions.

In a recent conversation, Deepika is said to have expressed her wish to travel by train as she had not done so in a long time.

When Ranbir learnt about her wish, he immediately got on to arrange for it.

Flight tickets to Delhi were cancelled and the team booked an overnight train travel instead.



While both of them have been to Delhi a lot of times, it will be for the first time that they will get on an overnight train to cover the journey.

Ranbir and Deepika are super excited for this trip and will be leaving from Mumbai on Sunday afternoon, said a spokesperson of the film.

The two, who were seen in a train journey briefly in "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani", have already planned the things to do on their Mumbai-Delhi trip.

Presented by UTV Motion Pictures and Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, the Imtiaz Ali directed film is slated to release on November 27.

What next for Shoojit Sircar?


What next for Shoojit Sircar?


After narrating an enduring slice of life story with "Piku", Shoojit Sircar hopes to tread the political arena on the silver screen. The director says he is now planning to helm political thrillers.

"I'm planning a couple of political thrillers and if will face any difficulty to release then I will show them my previous work like 'Yahaan' and 'Madras Cafe'," Shoojit said at a session of Film Bazaar here on Saturday.

The director, who brought a love story from a tense conflict zone of Kashmir in "Yahaan" and tried to tell the processes leading to Rajiv Gandhi's tragic assassination in 1991 with "Madras Cafe", said that the censor issues erupt due to the way of storytelling.

"It all depends whether you are trying to plague the audience through the film or just simply telling the story," he said.

However, Sircar is also busy working on "Agra Ka Daabra", which stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Taapsee Pannu. Another project that has Sircar's attention is "1911" in which he will be directing John Abraham.



The director shared the information about his future project at a session named "A journey of storytelling" at the film market, organised by National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) which is underway till November 24.

Sircar, who is also known for giving films embedded with small but meaningful life lessons like "Vicky Donor" and "Piku", also emphasized that "it is easier to direct than write".

"Writing process is the process. For 'Piku' the brief I gave to writers was that the audience should be in the middle of the chaotic family's living room and they should be irritated by the old man. In the end, script is the hero," he said.

'Bigg Boss 9': Salman grills Mandana for snapping at Rochelle


'Bigg Boss 9': Salman grills Mandana for snapping at Rochelle


In today's episode of 'Bigg Boss 9', watch Salman Khan grill Mandana Karimi for snapping at Rochelle because she was made a fool during the secret room task

Rimi Sen has been put into the jail for not participating in the 'Shararti Bachche' task. Salman Khan gets upset with Rimi for putting others into trouble due to her behaviour.

Salman tells Rochelle Rao that being 'physical' has become a convenience for everyone as an easy escape during tasks.



Salman grills Mandana Karimi for snapping at Rochelle because she was made a fool during the secret room task. Mandana cannot be a true friend to anyone and she proved it after backstabbing Rochelle who was her 'best friend'

Rishabh Sinha tells he will always stand up for Mandana no matter what.

All contestants discuss with Salman about how Mandana falls ill only during task. Everyone feels she does it for her advantage.

DP reacts over 'Pinga' controversy


The lead actress of the flick, Deepika Padukone, recently reacted on the issue after, Mohini Karkarey, who is a descendant of the Peshwas, wrote an open letter to director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said that he should have researched more.



Commenting on the issue, the 29-year-old actress said that she has read certain articles about it, but she has no idea what is it about.

She further added that Bhansali is the best person to talk about this and she would let him clear it.

The flick that also stars Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra is slated to be released on December 18.

After 'Mary Kom' Priyanka to play Kalpana Chawla?


After 'Mary Kom' Priyanka to play Kalpana Chawla?

'Bajirao Mastani' actress Priyanka Chopra is believed to have been approached for a biopic on Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman in space

The grapevine is abuzz with rumours of Priyanka Chopra being approached for a proposed biopic on Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman in space. Viacom 18 Motion Pictures will be producing the film, we hear.

Says a source, "Priyanka has been offered the lead role, but she is yet to give her approval to the makers. She is currently busy with her American TV show along with other Bollywood commitments, and so, is taking time to make up her mind. The makers feel Priyanka fits the bill; the common factor is that she, like Chawla, hails from a small town too."

Chawla, the first Indian-American astronaut, hailed from Karnal, Haryana, and has inspired thousands to dream big. She died on her second expedition along with seven other astronauts in February 2003 when the space shuttle exploded. She spent 31 days, 14 hours and 54 minutes in space.



She was awarded with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor by the United States. Both Priyanka and the spokesperson for the production company remained unavailable for comment. A source close to Viacom 18 confirms the story, saying, "We have the rights to the biopic on Kalpana Chawla. We have had a discussion with Priyanka about the film and she has shown interest. We are waiting for her to return to India next month to take things forward."

Why November is special for Ash?


Why November is special for Ash?

November spells celebrations for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. After a grand birthday party for daughter, Aaradhya on November 16, Ash was yet again in celebration mode on November 19.

It was exactly 21 years of winning the Miss World crown.

So since Thursday, Ash has been receiving congratulatory messages from dear ones, which includes Karan Johar who feels she is the most beautiful woman he has ever met.


Add to this, the grand Diwali bash the Bachchans hosted at their Juhu abode.

Plus, Ash's birthday celebrations came early this month. It has been one helluva hectic round of partying for the star.

Kapil denies misbehaviour with Marathi actress

Kapil denies misbehaviour with Marathi actress


Comedian Kapil Sharma has defended himself against a Marathi actress' accusation that he misbehaved with her.

According to media reports, Marathi actress Deepali Sayyad pointed fingures at Kapil for losing control of his actions at a wrap-up party to celebrate the International Marathi Film Festival Awards 2015.

Asked about it, the "Comedy Nights With Kapil" star said: "I don't know where this news came from. First of all I want to clarify that I was not present at the award function. I don't know who made a mountain out of a mole-hill. I believes everyone is like me, who loves everybody. but there are some people who made these news."

Kapil addressed the query about the issue at an event where he was feted as the PETA Person of the Year Award here on Friday.

Surprising Fact: Who is Deepika's first friend in Bollywood?


Surprising Fact: Who is Deepika's first friend in Bollywood?


Actress Deepika Padukone says that her "Bajirao Mastani" co-star Priyanka Chopra became her first friend in Bollywood -- even before she had entered the film industry.

"Priyanka is the first film person I ever met, when I had not even joined the industry. She was already a star even back then. She was the first friend that I made when I came in," Deepika said here at the trailer launch of "Bajirao Mastani", directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

"We were so comfortable while shooting that it troubled a few people because it went against what a lot of people thought it would be. People expected there to be a lot of tension. But it was completely different," she added.

Deepika and Priyanka's chemistry is visible in the song "Pinga", which has a strong Maharashtrian flavour to it.

There have been direct comparisons to the iconic "Dola re" song from the film "Devdas", also directed by Bhansali. The track featured Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit.

But both Deepika and Priyanka dismissed the comparisons, saying "Pinga" is a song in which their characters decide to forget their differences and celebrate womanhood and the love they have for their man, Bajirao (Ranveer Singh).



There was also no conflict between the two actresses regarding who looked or danced better.

"In fact, Sanjay sir would keep joking with us that 'Why can't you guys just fight?'. It was great fun... We've watched each other's back when we were shooting this song. If there were steps that I found difficult, she would encourage me, and vice versa," Deepika said.

"I couldn't have asked for a better partner to do that," she added.

Is Jacqueline going PC way?


A source says, "The channel authorities were keen to have a Bollywood face to host the show's maiden season. They contacted Jacqueline in September when she was in Dubai. They told her that the show would be shot in that city from January 2016, but could not share details about the judges since they were in the process of finalising the names. She waited for some time for more clarity, but finally expressed her inability to accept the offer."



The source adds that the actress conveyed to the makers about being busy with Bollywood projects and did not want the makers to delay their schedule.

While Jacqueline remained unavailable for comment, a source close to her says, "She has made up her mind not to accept the offer."

Meet Alia Bhatt, the 'Selfie Queen'


Meet Alia Bhatt, the 'Selfie Queen'

Alia Bhatt loves taking selfies. The youngster was thrilled after she got a notification about being the most followed celebrity on Instagram. As soon as the chirpy actress received the news, she posted another selfie to celebrate the milestone.

Ranbir slams Censor Board


Ranbir slams Censor Board


Ranbir Kapoor said that creative freedom gets curbed when censor board removes anything that even remotely sounds morally abrasive.

Notably, Ranbir's upcoming movie 'Tamasha' with Deepika Padukone has got some of its scenes deleted due to the usage of few mild abusive words.

The 'Rockstar' actor mentioned that obviously its censor board's responsibility to balance movies and social values, but sometimes it gets too radical and strict because of which creativity gets hampered.



The 33-year-old actor added that censor board had no problem with his upcoming Imtiaz Ali's flick's kissing or love making scenes.

'Tamasha' is slated to hit the theatre on November 27.

When Bhansali made Priyanka cry

When Bhansali made Priyanka cry


"Bajirao Mastani" actor Ranveer Singh has revealed that his co-star Priyanka Chopra had broken down on the third day of shooting the film. The reason? Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali!

At the period drama's trailer launch, Priyanka was asked about the difficulties she had to face in shooting the film.

She said: "I didn't have to do much hard work. It was all for Deepika (Padukone) and Ranveer. I used to come on the sets and wear a nauvari (nine-yard sari) and all the traditional jewellery. As I am not used to it, that was difficult."

In this context, Ranveer disclosed that Priyanka almost gave up and was tearful.

"Let me tell you, Priyanka broke down on the third day of shooting and called us 'mad' for working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali for the second time. But she quickly adapted to the demanding work style on the set and she rocked it," said the actor, who last worked with Deepika in the director's "Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram- Leela".



For Deepika, it was the war sequences that were tough to shoot.

"Especially when Ranveer met with an accident and he had broken shoulder. We had to take precautions for not experiencing something like this again. I had to learn so many things like Kalaripayattu, horse-riding and kathak, for the role."

"Bajirao Mastani" narrates the story of the 18th century Maratha warrior Peshwa Bajirao I and his second wife Mastani. The film will release on December 18.

Watch! SRK and Kajol's 'Dilwale' motion poster is out


Watch! SRK and Kajol's 'Dilwale' motion poster is out

Days after releasing the first song of 'Dilwale', makers of the Shah Rukh Khan-Kajol starrer have released the film's official motion poster.

SRK and Kajol have been loved by fans for their crackling chemistry in 'Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge', 'Baazigar', 'Karan Arjun', 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai', 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' and 'My Name Is Khan'. Fans are eagerly waiting to see the pair reunite on screen after 5 years in 'Dilwale'.



The film also stars Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon, Boman Irani, Vinod Khanna, Kabir Bedi, Johnny Lever and Varun Sharma.

Directed by Rohit Shetty, 'Dilwale' is set to clash with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus 'Bajirao Mastani' on December 18.

'Bajirao Mastani' saga is Bhansali's vision: Priyanka on row


'Bajirao Mastani' saga is Bhansali's vision: Priyanka on row

In the wake of allegations that facts have been altered in upcoming film 'Bajirao Mastani', actress Priyanka Chopra, who plays one of the central characters in the film, today said the movie is an epic saga told through the vision of director Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

'Bajirao Mastani' has landed in controversy with the descendant of Bajirao Peshwa alleging that historical facts have been "altered" while portraying the Maratha king and his wives Kashibai and Mastani in the film.

In a letter written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis yesterday, Bajirao's descendant Prasadrao Peshwe has demanded that the government should review the film, investigate the matter and take a decision accordingly.

"The Pinga dance form is an integral part of Marathi culture and has been transformed into an 'item song' and the costumes and dance direction are on that line," Bajirao's descendant Prasadrao Peshwe alleged.

Asked to comment on the controversy, the host at the trailer launch event said the production house has a clarification. However, Priyanka, who is abroad, chose to answer it.


Talking to reporters via video conference, she said "This film is a part of history. You will see clarification from production house (Eros International) and Sanjay Leela Bhansali (director). This film is based on a book called "Rau" and that is the author's version of what happened in Bajirao and Mastani's love story. So look at it as a beautiful rendition... Epic saga told from vision of Sanjay Leela Bhansali."

Bhansali went out soon after the trailer was launched. While the leading actors of the film Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone chose to keep mum on the issue. The film is set for release on December 18.

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