Shoojit Sircar: Never thought I will make comedy films

Remember Annu Kapoor's sperms analogy from 'Vicky Donor' or Irrfan Khan's funny motion relieving mantras from 'Piku'? Well, the cinematic moments brought a smile on the audience's faces.

Shoojit Sircar
But their director Shoojit Sircar says he never intended to make comedy movies as he always thought political thrillers were his calling.
"I came to make films like 'Yahaan' and 'Madras Cafe'. I never thought I will do a comedy film," Shoojit said here on Saturday.
Shoojit picked a love story between an army officer and a girl in Kashmir to be his directorial debut through 'Yahaan', and then made a film on an important subject sperm donation in a light manner in 2012 with 'Vicky Donor'.
After a light take on a serious subject, he tried to account the processes leading to Rajiv Gandhi's tragic assassination in 1991 with semi-fictional account 'Madras Cafe'.
His last film 'Piku', which highlights the children-parent relationship, was a commercial hit and generated rave reviews.
But Shoojit says box office numbers are never a source of worry to him.
"I don't bother about box office collection. My intention is to recover all the money that I spent on the film and for the producer after that I don't care," said Sircar, who has projects like "Agra Ka Daabra" and "1911" in his kitty.
Shoojit was a part of the film market, organised by National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) which is underway till November 24, for a session named "A journey in storytelling".

Shoojit Sircar plans some 'political thrillers'

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.

Shoojit Sircar
"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.

Sudhir Mishra: Feminist wave in Bollywood not new

Many point out that a wave of feminism has surged into Bollywood, with examples like "Piku", "Queen" and "Tanu Weds Manu Returns", but filmmaker Sudhir Mishra notes that it's just a blast from the past.

Sudhir Mishra
The filmmaker says the Hindi film industry saw a lean period for actresses in the late 1990s, but now it is right back on the track with women getting on the centerstage.
The showbiz is filled with talented female stars like Kangana Ranaut, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone and Vidya Balan, but Mishra feels that finding a star with the stature of yesteryear heroines like Meena Kumari or Nargis is tough.
"The change is wonderful. With the change we are going back to the 1950s era in terms of female actors. In the middle of 1980s and 1990s the film industry became regressive with sayings like 'people don't want to see women as leading actors' or 'you cannot make women-centric films because they will not work'."
"Look at 1950s heroines like Meena Kumari, Nargis, Madhubala -- they were as good as a male stars," Mishra told IANS on the sidelines of Film Bazaar here.
He added: "So, it is not new. When we say new, let us not insult the old because they were big. Today, we have no one at the level of Meena Kumari, Nargis or Waheeda Rehman. In fact, Tanuja is underrated but look at her effervescent acting skills with the spunkiness, frankness and her comedic spirit."
The National Award-winning director, who became part of the annual film market for a session on Saturday, asserted that feminist films are not a fad of the current times.
"When you see 'Piku', 'Queen', when you see work of Shyam Benegal, the characters portrayed by Smita Patil, Shabana Azmi, Deepti Naval or films by Prakash Jha -- many filmmakers in India have displayed that women are as capable, as devious, wonderful, as capable of betrayal as anything as men," he said.
Be it his "Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi", "Chameli", "Inkaar" or "Khoya Khoya Chand" -- all Mishra's films have a recurring pattern of strong female characters.
And the director, who entered the showbiz as a director with "Yeh Woh Manzil To Nahin" in 1987, quips he is only acquainted to strong women.
"I don't know any other kind of women. So you could expect another strong female character in my upcoming film 'Dasdev'," he said.
Mishra has tried to rehash the classic tale of "Devdas" and stir the story with a whiff of freshness. The director puts that he has flipped the story in a modern context.
The political drama stars Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari and Rahul Bhat.
"I have taken characters -- Devdas, Paro and Chandramukhi from Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel and put their life in other context. In the movie, they will be addicted to power with everyone getting hooked to power," he said.
Mishra also shared that he is working on his next script "Mehrunnisa", but refused to divulge any information.
"You cannot get it out of me," he said when asked about some names on top of his mind for the film.

Sudhir Mishra: Censorship in India always a problem

As the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) continues to face ire of the society for its extreme censorship policies, filmmaker Sudhir Mishra says censorship in India was always a problem, adding that one cannot sit on such diktats but fight against it.

Sudhir Mishra
"Censorship in India was always a bit of a problem in India. We will have to fight and one way is that you have to keep making the films that you want to," Mishra told IANS on the sidelines of the Film Bazaar here.
The recent issue to make headlines was when a kissing scene from James Bond film "Spectre" was cut short by the censor, making the board a laughing stock of society. The virtual world was brimming with trolls and memes going by the hashtag -- #SanskariJamesBond.
Mishra of "Chameli" and "Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi" fame asserted that such steps may force many established directors of the west to skip India release of their film, resulting into a loss for Indian audience.
"In old days we used to have complaints that they allow this in foreign film and they don't allow it in Indian films. Some of the serious filmmakers of the west will not allow the film to be released with any cuts like Steven Spielberg or Woody Allen," Mishra said.
"I guess the James bond film is a producer's film so they might accept but the films that are made with vision of director or writer intact they will not allow it," he said.
The director, who has now flipped the classic story of "Devdas" and is coming with "Dasdev", feels all such steps are a result of "overzealous attitude of some people and is not valid".

Prasoon Joshi: Big challenge to write on crime

Writer-lyricist and ad guru Prasoon Joshi says it is a big challenge to write on crime and that he is open to exploring the genre.

Prasoon Joshi
"It's not easy to write on crime because the reader is constantly with you and challenges the writer that 'I've known it before you' and 'I know what you're trying to do'. It's a big challenge to write on crime," Joshi said at the launch of Moitrayee Bhaduri's book, "The Sinister Silence".
Joshi also said that we need writers who write on crime because irrespective of whether we want it or not, crime is somehow part of our lives.
"There is a basic instinct of crime in humans, eventually humans are animals... you have that violent, animal side somewhere deep down in all of us."
"The news TRPs go up with crime. We've seen it since time immemorial that crime has engaged human beings. There is a certain kind of comfort you get after reading or watching crime. You go through the thrill without actually experiencing the thrill," he added.
The ad guru says he is yet to explore the genre, but he always tries to write something and "explore new subjects".
"If I feel sufficient material is there, I would definitely explore it," said Joshi, who has written of songs for films like "Taare Zameen Par" and "Fanaa".

Richa Chadda wants to screen 'Masaan' for Francis Ford Coppola

Actress Richa Chadda, who is gearing up to attend the 15th edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival, says she wants to hold a special screening of her internationally acclaimed film 'Masaan' for Oscar-winning Hollywood filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola.

Richa Chadda
Coppola, best known for directing films like “The Godfather” trilogy and “Apocalypse Now”, will be heading the festival's jury this year that also includes the “Fukrey” actress.
Richa, a huge fan of Coppola's work, wants to capitalise this opportunity to hold a special screening of her film.
“I'm really looking forward to the Marrakech International Film Festival. I'm passionate about cinema and to get the chance to watch amazing movies and interact with the other jury members and film people from all over the world is exciting,” Richa said in a statement.
“'Masaan' is a very special film for me. I would love to show it to Coppola, because it was truly world cinema,” she added.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, 'Masaan', which released on July 24 in India, was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes International Film Festival earlier this year.
The film won the FIPRESCI Prize in the Un Certain Regard section and a 'Promising Future' prize for debut films.

Veteran Bengali actor slams Anil Kapoor's dance at IFFI opening

Veteran Bengali actor Dhritiman Chatterjee, who has acted in films by Satyajit Ray and Mrinal Sen, on Sunday took objection to Bollywood star Anil Kapoor dancing on stage during the inaugural session of the 46th edition of IFFI.

Anil Kapoor Addressing a press conference to extend his support to the protesting students of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Chatterjee, a veteran 70-year-old actor from Bengal who has been part of the parallel cinema movement, also condemned the imposition of the prohibitive section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in Panaji, the city hosting the International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
"IFFI, a government film festival, is taking a different course. It is no longer about good cinema. This is about entertainment. I feel very reluctant to say this, but the chief guest (Kapoor) at the IFFI opening ceremony was dancing on stage? Is this an intention to make the film festival another arm of Bollywood, to entertain," Chatterjee asked.
Kapoor, who was invited as the chief guest during the IFFI inauguration on Friday, did an impromptu 'tapori' act on stage to popular songs filmed on him like "1 2 ka 4", and the raunchy number "Dhak Dhak" along with co-host Aditi Rao Hydari.
Chatterjee also questioned the idea of celebrating cinema and culture in excessive police presence.
"Section 144 is in force in Panaji. I have been associated with cinema for four decades and I have never seen such a surreal situation when a district magistrate says section 144 is imposed because a celebration of cinema is going on," Chatterjee said.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali: People thought 'Bajirao Mastani' will never happen

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali says people thought he'll never be able to make his ambitious project 'Bajirao Mastani' -- a film that he planned to make for the past 12 years.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali
"I kept holding it for 12 years and kept thinking about it for 12 years. People thought this will never happen, that it was impossible for the film to be made. 'Every year he begins it and every year he scraps it'," said Bhansali.
He initially wanted to cast his "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam" actors Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan for the title roles.
Bhansali said: "Several people came in and several went out. But it is written in the destiny of our Bajirao, Mastani and Kashibai (actors). Bajirao, Mastani and Kashibai's souls had a will that these people (actors Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra) do this film and nothing could go against it."
"It was their blessings. And so, when it had to be made, it got made," he added.
About the experience of completing the film, Bhansali said: "It's a wonderful state to be in, that's why we make films to experience this one moment of seeing it on the screen. Economics might matter or not matter, films are obviously made with money but more than money, it's made with passion and with people."
"There are several talented people who've worked on this film. They're relieved. There is that sadness, emptiness and the feeling that it's done, now I'm jobless," he added.
'Bajirao Mastani' will hit the screens on December 18.

Abhinay Deo: Hope to do 'Delhi Belly' sequel in few years

Director Abhinay Deo says he and writer Akshat Verma are busy right now with their individual projects but few years down the line, they hope to team up for a sequel to their 2011 hit film "Delhi Belly".


The Imran Khan-starrer black comedy got good response at the box office and was remade in Tamil as "Settai".
"We had thought of it (sequel). But the writer Akshat Verma is doing another film and I am busy with my own work. So hopefully in a few years we will be able to do a sequel," Abhinay told PTI.
The film, produced by Aamir Khan Productions, had Imran, Kunaal Roy Kapur, Vir Das, Poorna Jagannathan and Shenaz Treasurywala in the lead.
"I discussed the sequel with Aamir and Akshat. Akshat had taken nine years to make the film and this time if it happens he might take a little less time," Abhinay said.
"Delhi Belly" was given an 'A' certificate for the use of expletives. Abhinay believes the movie opened doors for adult comedy films.
"I think 'Kya Kool Hai Hum' and 'Masti' series are different from 'Delhi Belly'. Our film was a smart adult comedy and it opened doors for a different kind of films," Abhinay said.
Currently, Abhinay is busy with two projects - Season two of TV series "24" and John Abrahaam, Sonakshi Sinha-starrer big screen outing, "Force 2".

Imtiaz Ali: Hope Tamasha becomes high-point for Ranbir-Deepika

His movies have given a much needed push to the careers of many actors, and now filmmaker Imtiaz Ali hopes Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone will achieve greater heights with his latest romantic drama 'Tamasha'.

Imtiaz Ali
Ranbir and Deepika, who started their Bollywood journey eighth years ago, have previously worked with the 44-year-old director in "Rockstar" and "Love Aaj Kal", respectively.
When asked if "Tamasha" will turn the tide for Ranbir, whose recent films have failed at the box office, Imtiaz told PTI, "I hope so. These things are far too transient. The career graph is just a dot in the time line, it changes all the time. I hope for both of them, 'Tamasha' becomes a high point."
The "Highway" helmer, along with the lead pair, has pushed himself to reach a "different level" with his upcoming release.
"I know as actors, and for me as a director, we have gone to a different level in the work that we have done with 'Tamasha'. I hope the same happens in terms of stature for both of them."
The film marks Ranbir, 33, and the "Piku" actress' third outing together after their 2014 blockbuster "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" and "Bachna Ae Haseeno" in 2008.
The chemistry the former couple share on-screen has become a favourite of young movie goers, but Imtiaz insists that it is a well written role which creates chemistry and not the real life connection they have.
"...I don't think so. I feel that if the roles are suitable to both of them, then it will be the greatest fun because both Ranbir, Deepika are great to work with. But the roles have to have the basic chemistry."
The "Rockstar" helmer, who also worked with former couple Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan in "Jab We Met", believes it is not necessary that actors who have been in a relationship will add a certain nuance to the characters.
"It is not at all necessary. It really depends upon the characters and it depends upon the people these actors are.
The fact that they are having a relationship, or have had it will not really make too much of a difference."

Sachin Pilgaonkar: Happy with my daughter making debut opposite SRK

Sachin Pilgaonkar's daughter Shriya will be making her Bollywood debut with Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'Fan' and the actor feels working with the superstar is a great learning experience for her.


Directed by Maneesh Sharma, "Fan" stars Shah Rukh in a double role - that of a superstar Aryan Khanna and his biggest fan, Gaurav.
"I am very happy for her. It is not a full fledged role, it is a cameo. She will be seen opposite the character of fan, played by Shah Rukh. She asked me if she should do the film and I gave her full support.
"I told her to get some exposure, learn a lot from the people you are working with, and who better than Shah Rukh to learn something from," Sachin told PTI.
The 58-year-old actor had launched his daughter in the 2013 Marathi film 'Ekulti Ek', directed by him.
Sachin says he did not give her any special tips on acting but told her to make most of this opportunity.
"I told her not to deprive herself of this opportunity.
Take it and work hard and do good work. I worked with her in 'Ekulti Ek' for her to get an experience. I knew it then that she has it in her to be a good actress."
Produced by Yash Raj Films, 'Fan' is scheduled to release on April 15 next year.

Imtiaz Ali: Ranbir is a true actor

Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has hailed his 'Tamasha' actor Ranbir Kapoor's acting skills.

Ranbir Kapoor and Imtiaz Ali
"He (Ranbir) is usually not in the race where people try to watch him. His highs and lows are different. His rhythm is different. He is a true actor," Ali said.
Ranbir and Ali had previously worked together in the 2011 award-winning film "Rockstar". Comparing the two films, Ali said: "I feel that in this film ('Tamasha'), Ranbir has done a lot more difficult role and a more multi-layered role than 'Rockstar'.
"You can definitely relate to it and you'll feel that this is happening with me. I'm excited for Ranbir's role in the film. And there is a significant anticipation to know what the audience is going to say," he added.
Ranbir will be seen in the film with Deepika Padukone -- with whom he shared a relationship earlier. Talking about casting them, he said: "Whenever you cast for a film, you don't cast two characters simultaneously, but one by one. I never think of pairs. I saw that Ranbir fit the bill for Ved's character and Deepika was suitable for Tara and that's why I cast them separately."
'Tamasha' will hit the theatres on November 27.

Rishi Kapoor: I am too critical and harsh on Ranbir

Rishi Kapoor is too strict a father and even when it comes to praising the work of his actor son Ranbir the veteran Bollywood star prefers being "critical" and "harsh" on him.
The 63-year-old "All Is Well" actor said till now he has found his son significantly decent in "Barfi" and "Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year".
"Generally I don't like him as I am too critical and harsh but he was decent in 'Barfi' and 'Rocket Singh'," Rishi said, when asked about the best movie of his son, during a Q&A session with fans on Twitter.
The actor, who earned a lot of praise for his portrayal of Ravi Verma in 1980 thriller "Karz" directed by Subhash Ghai, does not considers the film as one his best performances.
"Karz was no great work. Just stylized. Ghai's best. Great music and Joie de vivre! Simi and Tina were to die for!," he tweeted.
Rishi, son of Bollywood legend Raj Kapoor, also recalled his childhood days when yesteryear gems Madhubala and Meena Kumari visited their house on Diwali, but regretted that he did not realize their importance during those days.
"When I was very young they often visited our house for Diwali etc... How unfortunate I was not realising their worth," he wrote.
The actor will next be seen in Indian comedy romantic drama film "Kapoor & Sons" directed by Shakun Batra.

Varun Dhawan's date night with ladylove Natasha Dalal

Varun Dhawan outside an eatery in the city along with ladylove Natasha Dalal

Also spotted

Kriti Sanon outside a preview theatre. The actress looked fresh in a casual look
Madhuri Dixit Nene

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma


Karan Johar

Anupama Chopra and Vidhu Vinod Chopra

Ayan Mukerji

Imtiaz Ali: 'Tamasha' not autobiographical

Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali says there might be a few moments from his life in his forthcoming film 'Tamasha', but it's not an autobiographical.

Imtiaz Ali
Talking about the story of the film, Ali said: "'Tamasha' has that kind of love which makes a normal person extraordinary, which makes a commoner an artist. This is the kind of love through which you understand why you need a woman in life and how it takes you on a journey through which we identify ourselves."
Ali, who got separated from his wife a few years back, believes that personal life incidents and thoughts suggest you the story. But it's not necessary that the story you're portraying will be completely based on your personal life.
"There might be a few minor moments from my life in 'Tamasha', which you can see. But on the whole, it's not that this film is autobiographical," he said.
He also shared that 'Tamasha' as a title suits the film in every possible way.
"With 'Tamasha', it's the first time that I have liked the title of my film. 'Tamasha' means spectacle, a scene or a show, something that you watch or something that you enjoy watching," said Ali.
"Secondly, 'Tamasha' is always associated with the stage and this film has a lot to do with the stage. What you'll see ultimately is that there is an artist who narrates his stories on stage. So, this title is suitable to the film in every way," added the director.
He also considers himself "very fortunate that somehow there was no film made with the title 'Tamasha', which is extremely rare".
The 'Jab We Met' director has also, with 'Tamasha', broken the trend of using English titles after his last two films 'Rockstar' and 'Highway'.

When Ranbir, Deepika were almost caught travelling without tickets

While travelling from Mumbai to Delhi in a train to promote their upcoming film 'Tamasha', co-stars Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and director Imtiaz Ali were almost caught without tickets!

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.
'Tamasha' will release on November 27.

Photos: The 'Tamasha' trio boards a train to Delhi

Ranbir Kapoor's dream to come true soon

Ranbir Kapoor's plans are afoot to convert a portion of the Andheri Sports Complex into a state-of-the-art football stadium

A football enthusiast, Ranbir Kapoor has often lamented the lack of a world class stadium in Mumbai for the game. However, things are set to change. In an exclusive chat with hitlist, the actor has revealed that the state government is planning to transform a part of the Andheri Sports Complex into a football stadium equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure. The goal is expected to be achieved through corporate partnership.

Ranbir Kapoor Ranbir, who co-owns the Mumbai franchise in the Indian Super League, says, "Our team does not have a ground for practice. We practice at the Cooperage Ground in SoBo that has an artificial turf and then play on the real ground due to which players suffer injuries. So, how do you expect a sport to grow if you don’t have the required infrastructure? But, a lot of corporates with support from the government are trying to change the scenario. We are trying to turn the Andheri Sports Complex into a football stadium."
A senior official at the sports complex confirms the development and, requesting anonymity, says, "There are big plans to design a world class stadium. Things are at the discussion stage currently and once a blueprint is prepared, there will be more clarity."

Rishi Kapoor wants to play 'sleaze swine conman'

Veteran actor Rishi Kapoor, who garnered appreciation for his negative portrayal of Rauf Lala in 2012 film 'Agneepath', says he wishes to play more characters with grey shades.

Rishi Kapoor
Asked during a question and answer session with fans on Twitter if there are upcoming projects where he can be seen in a negative role, Rishi replied: “”Wish! Nothing that I have heard of late that measures excitement. Want to do sleaze swine conman etc. nothing routine.”
Directed by Karan Malhotra, “Agneepath”, which starred Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Om Puri and Priyanka Chopra, was an official remake of the 1990 film of the same name.
“Agneepath” was Rishi's second film with Hrithik after the 2009 drama film “Luck by Chance”.
The 63year-old says he is “waiting” to do a third film with the “Krrish 3” star.
He wrote: “Hritik is a rockstar and my kid too. Known him as a baby. Waiting to nail a third film with him. Hopefully will.”
When asked about directing films again, Rishi, who helmed the 1999 film "Aa Ab Laut Chalen", said: "Too tiring, too painful and a thankless job. Acting is a passion I enjoy the most. But then who knows? Anything is possible".
Meanwhile, Rishi will be next seen in “Kapoor & Sons”.
Talking about the film, he shared: “Quite gung-ho about 'Kapoor & Sons'. Watch for the first look early January, hopefully! I am diametrically different.”

Parineeti Chopra gives 'ashirwad' to Sania Mirza

Actress Parineeti Chopra has given her blessings to Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza with her own racket for the upcoming matches.

Parineeti Chopra and Sania Mirza Parineeti posted a photograph on Twitter on Sunday in which Sania can be seen taking blessings from the “Ladies vs Ricky Bahl” actress.
“Not that she needs it, but I gave her my ashirwad anyway!! Obviously with her own racquet!!! What a day,” Parineeti wrote alongside the image.
Sania, who is currently women's doubles World No.1, has made India proud by winning numerous women's doubles titles at various international tournaments.

Shah Rukh Khan reveals his insecurities and triumphs in a candid chat

Shah Rukh Khan in an exclusive interview talks about not knowing yet if he has got it 'right' in the last 25 years, why his gift of the gab has been as much of a blessing as curse, and more

Q. But the trailer doesn't really highlight that aspect...

Q. Apart from what's already being much spoken about, what is your personal reason for picking a film like 'Dilwale'?

A. I think the storyline is interesting; trailer doesn't really tell enough of the story. It's dramatic in the typical Rohit Shetty manner, but what's more is that he (Rohit) has taken the legacy of Kajol and me as eternal lovers, retained that kind of romance and dignity, and woven a story around it. And it is garnished with his typical madness.

A. To be honest, I didn't want the trailer to divulge too much. It is just a montage rather than really telling the film's story. I am deliberately holding back with this one because I think that aspect should come as a pleasant surprise. You seldom get commercial films that have something beyond what you expect. But having said that, it is a film by Rohit Shetty, who likes blowing up cars. Each filmmaker has a style — Yash Chopra saree udaate the, Rohit Shetty gadi udaata hai. Karan Johar does movies on society, Imtiaz Ali's films show darkness in love stories and Anurag Kashyap makes edgy films. They all have their own style.
Q. The trailer received a mixed reaction on social media.

A. I don't check on that; my office does that for me. But I can say that the feedback we get on ground is very different from what we get on online. Social media is exciting and fun, but you can't go by that feedback because it can be quite misleading, positively or negatively. Only a minority goes online to check about films. It is definitely not the right way of measuring the real response to anything. I would rather go by what I hear on ground. Like yesterday, I was at Yash Raj Studios and people came up to me to talk about the 'Gherua' song. If you hear a song of yours playing in a rickshaw passing by, then you know you are doing well.

Shah Rukh Khan
Q. You have the wonderful gift of the gab, and that is evident when you tweet, write or give inspirational speeches. Don't you think as an icon you could use it for a larger purpose?
A. My reply will be in two parts. Yes, I think I should. I have an idea, but haven't been able to put it to practice. I want to create a weekly video where I could present myself to the world. I could be talking about everything, not just films. But then, I also think I should speak less. I talk about something and it is misconstrued, and I get into trouble. That's a nuisance. Like that thing which blew up recently — I never said India is intolerant. When I was asked about it, I said I wouldn't like talking about it, but when they insisted, I had just said that the youth should concentrate on making this a secular, progressive country. It is just that people like to believe what they want to believe. Misconstruing my words might or might not suit a particular political agenda, but I am annoyed because I didn't mean what is being portrayed. I am an actor and make films. This is enough of a job. I am an icon because I can be what I am on screen. I would rather stick to that. I don't enjoy spending three nights explaining to hairstylists that I didn't mean to offend anyone by naming my film Barber. These things take away from my source of happiness. I must say I love talking. My experiences in life have been such that I can give away certain nice things. But then you can't expect everyone to understand your way of thinking or even your sense of humour. That is the reason why I stopped hosting shows... I was offending too many people. One truism in this industry is that you can't please everyone all the time.
Q. What other life lessons would you say your experience has taught you?
A. Clichéd as it may sound, it is that there is no alternative for hard work. What life has also taught me is that you cannot plan a successful film. You can't write it in a way or think that this will be a blockbuster. I still keep it simple. My only criteria is: Am I doing the kind of film for which I am excited to wake up and go on the sets and wear make up? Longevity and freshness in an actor reflects in how he feels about the work he does. You cannot manipulate anything. I watched 'Golmaal 3' and really loved it. So I asked Kareena (Kapoor) to get me to meet Rohit. He knows which world he belongs to and doesn't want to follow a pattern just because it might work. Popular patterns are fads, not classics. When KJo became successful and we made films together, people used to say, 'Oh, but he only makes pop culture films'. My reply was, 'If you think it is that easy, why don't you try making it?' When you don't like people's success, you want to put them in a box. Being true to your form is the most important thing. I tell young guys to find what they are not good at and try improving on that. Only then you can hope for longevity.
Q. Is it more head than heart for you after these many years in the industry?
A. No, if I did anything following my head, I would have reached a different level of material success. I still do what my heart says; I do films I have some emotional connect with. Even as a producer, Juhi (Chawla) and I started out only to be able to enhance the director's experience, to let a good director be able to do what he wants to do. I can, at times, afford to tell the director to go ahead with his vision, however big it is. I have suffered in the process, but I am also the only producer who has a nine-storey office and 210 people employed in it. Sometimes, I feel bad that I don't get to do the films I really want to, because my office people tell me to work on something that brings money too. But within those parameters, I do the best I can. I may have the biggest house or the best cars, but none of that is the extension of my manhood or my stardom. Who needs all that when I have my dimples? (laughs)
Q. But don't more crores feel like bigger toys for you?
A. Not at all. There is only so much that you can do with money. I have a theatre at home but I have not been able to watch a movie in it for the last year and half. I have a swimming pool, I have not had the time to use it. I practically live in my van for 20 hours a day. I don't get to spend any money on myself. I am grateful for the amount of money that God and this job has given me, but as they say you can never be too thin or too rich (laughs). Right now, I think I am fat.
Q. Is there any insecurity that lingers on from your struggling days?
A. Let me tell you something: I am the most under-confident, nervous, insecure man who keeps asking himself if he's got it right. I know it is difficult to believe because I don't come across like that. I was to watch Fan yesterday and was so nervous. I didn't want to see it because, honestly, I wouldn't be able to gauge if we have done a good job. This is my biggest insecurity, but also my biggest asset. In spite of being in the industry for 25 years and not knowing, can work for you.
Q. You mean it stops you from being cocky?
A. In my profession, yes. This confidence that I show is an act. When I have to make a public appearance and speak, I get really nervous. People say, 'Are you mad? You just have to be present to make people happy'. But I know my just being there would make me the most boring person; doing something to make them happy will make them happy. When I see actors who come out of their own films and say 'I nailed it', 'I killed it', I get really curious. How do we know we gave a great performance? You get to know when the audience says or accepts it. Also, you can't get too confident about these things because you never know why someone liked something you did. It could very well be because of some personal thing that made them connect to it.

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Nandita Das and other celebs at an film event

An initiative that aims at encouraging collaboration between the international and South Asian film fraternities opened on Friday.

Nandita Das
When activities kicked off the very next day, a host of filmmakers such as Shyam Benegal, Ramesh Sippy, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and Sudhir Mishra turned up at the do.

Anubhav Sinha (left) and Sudhir Mishra
They spoke about various aspects of filmmaking and the industry today.

Shoojit Sircar

Anurag Basu

Sanjay Suri (left) and Manoj Bajpayee

Ramesh Sippy (left) and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra

Shyam Benegal

Shilpa thanks Raj Kundra for being 'bestest friend ever'

On the occasion of her sixth wedding anniversary on Sunday, actress Shilpa Shetty has thanked her husband and businessman Raj Kundra for being her “bestest friend ever”.

Shilpa Shetty with husband Raj Kundra
Shilpa, best known for her roles in films like “Dhadkan”, “Indian” and “Life in a... Metro”, married Kundra on November 22 in 2009.
“Happy Anniversary @therajkundra, how six years have flown by. Thank you for being my bestest friend ever,” Shilpa posted on Twitter on Sunday.
"Raaz" actress Bipasha Basu also wished the couple on the digital platform. "Happy Anniversary to the most adorable couple @officialshilpashetty and @TheRajKundra."
Kundra relied: "Thank you Bipsu waiting for you to join the bandwagon!! lots of love".
The couple together have a three-year-old son Viaan.

Kabir Khan yet to finalise script for Hrithik Roshan-starrer

Kabir Khan, who presented superstar Salman Khan in an "'endearing' character in this year's blockbuster 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan', is set to direct Hrithik Roshan. The director says though he has not locked the script, he would like to show Hrithik in a "never seen before" avatar.

Kabir Khan and Hrithik Roshan
"It is only in principle now. We have not locked the script. We are talking about a film which Sajid Nadiadwala will produce, I will direct and Hrithik will act in it. I have given myself a month to explore and think of ideas," Kabir told IANS on the sidelines of Film Bazaar here.
Kabir, who often makes films around terrorism or India-Pakistan ties as a backdrop, is "assuming" he would present the 'Bang Bang!' star in a new avatar.
"There are certain aspects of Hrithik that really excites me and I would like to explore the aspects that have not been done before for the project," he added.
The film's makers are yet to zero in on other details including the lead actress.
Meanwhile, Hrithik is tied up with shooting for his upcoming venture 'Mohenjo Daro' and Kabir is enjoying his break by vacationing and looking for ideas.

Raveena Tandon at a football event in West Bengal

Raveena Tandon at a football event in Malda, West Bengal, over the weekend.

The actress also participated in a road show. Pic/PTI

Tabu, Hungarian actress Kinga Vecsei at closing ceremony of Kolkata film fest

Tabu with Hungarian actress Kinga Vecsei at the closing ceremony of the Kolkata International Film Festival over the weekend.

Tabu was the guest of honour at the event. Pic/PTI

Kangana Ranaut to replace Chitrangada Singh in 'Pehle Aap Janab'?

Buzz is that Sudhir Mishra plans to revive his project 'Mehrunnisa', which was later rechristened 'Pehle Aap Janab'.

Anil Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut and Irrfan We hear Mishra will now make the film with Anil Kapoor, Irrfan and Kangana Ranaut.
The film was announced over two years ago with Chitrangada Singh, Rishi Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan, but failed to take off.

Tigmanshu Dhulia to make a film for UN campaign

A bunch of Bollywood directors and actors have been approached to create films as part of an United Nations (UN) campaign that aims at highlighting a variety of social issues. And we hear Tigmanshu Dhulia has already come on board to make a film on illegal immigration in the country.

Ajay Devgn (left) and Hrithik Roshan; (inset) Tigmanshu Dhulia While the names of Ajay Devgn and Hrithik Roshan are being tossed around for the lead actor role, the former is more likely to star in the film since he endorses the UN project.
A source close to the project says, “The campaign called Humanicy (Human Side of Diplomacy) seeks to spread awareness through documentaries created by Indian filmmakers and actors. The UN authorities plan to take up issues such as poverty, violence and intolerance.”
Angelo Antonio Toriello, who has founded and launched this campaign in India, met the director recently. “Tigmanshu’s film will explore how immigration is a cause of concern in not just India, but various other countries too. Although it is a serious topic, he is trying to ensure that the tone is light-hearted so that it can reach the masses,” adds the source.
The casting for the film is underway and Devgn will possibly feature in it. Another source says, “Talks are on with Ajay as well as Hrithik to play the lead. The film is supposed to go on floors by mid 2016.”
Tigmanshu’s spokesperson confirms the news.

Tiger Shroff shoots 'Baaghi' climax in Thailand

Tiger Shroff is in Bangkok for the climax shoot of his film, 'Baaghi'.

Tiger Shroff
The actor describes it as his toughest shoot since it involves some high-octane sequences.
The actor had been working out and preparing for the stunts in Thailand for the last couple of weeks.

Kamal Haasan-Sridevi starrer 'Sadma' to be remade

Director Balu Mahendra's 1983 classic "Sadma", starring Kamal Haasan and Sridevi, is all set to be remade by ad filmmaker Llyod Baptista.
"Sadma", which was a remake of Tamil film "Moondram Pirai", saw Sridevi play a young woman who regresses to childhood after a head injury. She ends up in a brothel where she is rescued by a lonely school teacher (Haasan) who falls in love with her.
Sridevi in 'Sadma'
"Yes I am remaking 'Sadma'. It's a beautiful film, I had seen it as a young boy and the last scene was always stuck in my mind. I feel the current generation who doesn't believe in love needs to see films like 'Sadma," Llyod told PTI.
The filmmaker says casting director Mukesh Chabhra is working on the film and they are in talks with few big names to play the lead roles. Haasan bagged a national award for his role in the Tamil original.
"We are in brief talks with some A-list actors because it's going to be hard to replace Kamal Haasan and Sridevi."
The remake of "Sadma" might have a contemporary take and Llyod is figuring out which approach to go by and make the film.
"We have few new approaches to the film but we are not locking anything yet. I am very careful not to destroy the essence of the original film and also not to make the film boring as most of us have already seen the old Sadma at some point. There is a lot of expectation from a lot of people who respect Sadma."
Llyod, who bought the rights from director-producer Raj Sippy, is keen to make the film in English and Tamil as well.
"It's in Hindi for now, as for English I am still in talks with Raj Sippy. For Tamil I just briefly spoke to Thyarajan the original producer, so Hindi is my priority right now."
Llyod says he will produce the movie himself but filmmaker Atul Agnihotri and Sunil Wadhwa might come on board "in case I get stuck."

Shah Rukh Khan teases fans with new 'Dilwale' song

New Delhi: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has unveiled the lyrics of a new song from his much-awaited flick 'Dilwale' on the social media.

Meri subah Ho tumhi aur tumhi shaam Ho; Tum dard Ho tumhi aaraam Ho. Love this song from Dilwale. Present to u soon. pic.twitter.com/n6QIqjMDOx

— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) November 22, 2015

Revealing the song to his fans, the 50-year-old actor took to his Twitter account and wrote,"Meri subah Ho tumhi aur tumhi shaam Ho; Tum dard Ho tumhi aaraam Ho. Love this song from Dilwale. Present to u soon.'
The lyrics of the romantic song seem to be very enticing and the 'Happy New Year' actor's favorite too.
Earlier, the trending 'Gerua' song from the forthcoming flick had notched three million views on YouTube.
Directed by Rohit Shetty, the flick that also stars Kajol, Varun Dhawan and Kirti Sanon in the prominent roles, is slated to release on December 18.

Deepika Padukone: Ranbir can't get married till I allow him

Questions pertaining to Ranbir Kapoor's marriage to Katrina Kaif have been the talk of the town but his 'Tamasha' co-star Deepika Padukone says the actor will not wed till the time she gives her nod.

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone
Ranbir, 33, who dated Deepika for a year, shares an amicable relationship with the actress post their split. "Ranbir can't get married till I allow it...," Deepika told PTI. To which Ranbir, who has been dating Katrina for sometime, added, "It's a very big question about my life. I completely believe in the institution of marriage. When I will get married, I will let the whole world know about it."
Imtiaz Ali's 'Tamasha' is Ranbir and Deepika's third film together after 'Bachna Ae Haseeno' and 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani'. The co-stars took a train ride from Mumbai to Delhi to promote their upcoming film, which is slated to hit the screens this Friday.
Ranbir and the 'Piku' star started their career in 2008 with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Saawariya' and Shah Rukh Khan starter 'Om Shanti Om', respectively. "It feels just like yesterday. I saw Deepika outside 'Saawariya' sets walking across to 'Om Shanti Om' set. Eight years have passed and we have no idea. We have worked hard and reached the point we have desired for in our lives," Ranbir said. For Deepika, 29, Ranbir is still the same person that she met eight years ago.
"It's a very unique situation. We have heard about actors debuting in the same year but actors debuting on the same day is something which does not happen normally. I hope he never changes. But it has been an amazing journey."

Ranbir Kapoor reveals Kishore Kumar biopic has been shelved

New Delhi: Ranbir Kapoor's dream of making a biopic on Kishore Kumar with Anurag Basu has been shattered, the actor has revealed.

Ranbir Kapoor
The 33-year-old actor decided to make a picture on the legendary actor while he was working on 'Barfi!,' but he recently revealed that the film is shelved. He wanted to make that film as it was one of the most interesting stories Aunrag and he had in their minds, but it didn't work out and he is not making it anymore.
The 'Tamasha' star further said that firstly, they didn't get the desired cast and then, there were issues with the script as his family members were not happy with it.
However, Ranbir will be soon gearing up for another biopic that is based on Sanjay Dutt's life that will be directed by Rajkumar Hirani.

Are 'Bajirao Mastani' controversies turning into PR stunts?

New Delhi: After getting an open letter from Peshwa Bajirao's descendant, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus 'Bajirao Mastani' has landed into another controversy. History purists are now trying to get the flick banned, but if we give a closer look to these back-to-back dramas, they are just helping in the film's promotion.

'Bajirao Mastani' poster. Picture courtesy: Eros Now's Twitter account
To show a revolt against the Ranveer Singh-starrer, history purists have created a Facebook page that claims to highlight the twisted facts, which are being portrayed in the flick.
With about 1500 likes for the page, the campaign seems to be gaining momentum.
The FB page is described as, "This movie is purely insulting the glorious History of Shri Bajirao Peshwa. Let's not forget his valor. Let's work together to halt misrepresentation."
Letters written to the filmmaker as well as the one written to Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, have also been shared on the page.
Prior to this, Bajirao's kin, Mohini Karkarey, wrote an open letter to Bhansali claiming that he should have researched before filming the song 'Pinga' as Kashbai, whose character is being played by Priyanka Chopra, wouldn't have danced like this because firstly, she wasn't in the best of her health and secondly, it was not in their culture.
She also wrote in the open letter that Kashibai and Mastani met only once in their lifetime that too formally.
Though, the director himself did not respond to the controversy, Priyanka commented on it during the trailer launch of the flick.
The 33-year-old actress said that this film is based on a book called 'Rao' which narrates the author's version of Bajirao-Mastani's love story and it should not be taken otherwise.
Meanwhile, talking about the same, Deepika Padukone said that Bhansali is the right person to comment on it and she would let him clear the air.
And, like it is said no publicity is bad publicity, such controversies are only proving positive for the flick and are generating curiosity amongst the viewers.
Well, it is yet to be seen if these controversies will have an effect on the flick's box office collection.
The film is slated to release on December 18.

Sharman Joshi bulked up for 'Hate Story 3'

For the longest time, Sharman Joshi sported a lean look. But for his upcoming thriller, 'Hate Story 3', the actor has a beefy look considering the role required him to go shirtless often.


Sharman Joshi
Sharman says, "Fitness is something I have been into for a while. This film gave me the opportunity to take off my shirt often." The actor stuck to a no-carb diet to sport those chiselled abs. "My breakfast is a bowl of fresh fruit and protein shake. For lunch, I get my fibre intake through vegetables besides chicken/fish provide proteins. Dinner consists of a protein shake along with some chicken or fish. I get my carbs from soup. I do not have dal, roti, bread or rice," adds the actor. Sharman has converted his building garage into a gym.

He also dabbles in martial arts to stay fit. The actor says, "If a shirtless scene is required, I would surely do it. Why would I limit myself to just one film? Cinema has changed over the years and today it is more in-the-face kind of films which involve flaunting a well-chiselled body."

Why is Deepika Padukone sticking her tongue out?

Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and director Imtiaz Ali were spotted at Mumbai Central station last afternoon.

The trio boarded a train to New Delhi as part of promotions for their film 'Tamasha'. Deepika appeared as excited as a child to board a train and playfully stuck her tongue out.

They were later spotted sipping coconut water while seated on their berths.