Tom Hanks's life stopped after wife's cancer diagnosis

Two-time Oscar winner Tom Hanks has opened up about his wife's cancer recovery and said life simply came to a halt for him when the disease struck his spouse last year.

"What has been so amazing about it is how powerfully it plays out in a relatively short period of time. We all know by now what hell that sort of health crisis is. It just comes along out of the blue and everything else stops because the only thing to do is to drop everything else and pay attention to myriad stuff that needs to be attended to," Hanks told dailymail.co.uk.

Hanks is married to Rita Wilson.

"Rita found out last December. That meant Christmas and New Year was a completely different version of how it had been on any year before, and now here we are a year later and she seems to be out of it," he added.

The Oscar winning actor feels blessed that they could afford the best healthcare and added he was in awe of how Wilson coped with her ordeal.

"Rita and I are lucky because we can afford the best healthcare in the world, we knew that blessing right off, but while it was happening, all I could do was bow down before the courage of my wife," he said.

Kate Winslet finds showbiz events 'exciting'

Actress Kate Winslet enjoys attending showbiz events because they provide her with a rare opportunity to dress glamorously and be pampered. She finds it "exciting".

"It's nice to feel pulled together in the moments when I need to be, like on a red carpet and I really enjoy those moments because I don't sit at home getting manicures and massages and having people cook for me," Winslet told The Lady magazine, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"So actually I do still find those occasions really quite glamorous and exciting and a real treat," she added.

The 40-year-old star also enjoys giving interviews on the red carpet because the experience is so different to her home life.

"It's a real treat. You know what it's like when you find yourself going, 'Oh wow, I'm sitting down.' I never sit down, this is a moment, you know," the "Titanic" star said.

Tom Cruise 'hasn't seen' daughter in two years

Actor Tom Cruise is said to have not seen his nine-year-old daughter Suri for around 800 days.

According to National Enquirer, the "Mission: Impossible" star has kept his distance from his daughter and ex-wife Katie Holmes because of his religion Scientology.

"He doesn't seem interested in being part of Suri's day-to-day life," aceshowbiz.com quoted a source as saying.

"Katie does her best to be a hands-on mum but there's no replacing her father."

The insider added: "He hasn't been seen in public with his daughter in over two long years - that's a fifth of her lifetime."

Back in April, there was a report saying that Tom hadn't seen Suri for a year because he was busy filming "Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation" in London. However, a representative for the movie star denied the allegation, saying that Tom did meet Suri, but it happened in private and away from the public eye.

Radcliffe jealous of Redmayne's 'Harry Potter' outfit

Actor Daniel Radcliffe says he is jealous of the wonderful wizard outfit Eddie Redmayne gets to wear in "Harry Potter" spin-off film "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them".

"Oh f**k you, Eddie, in your brilliant costume... I got jeans and a zip top for 10 years and you've got a great coat already," Radcliffe told NME magazine, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

Radcliffe essayed J.K. Rowling's literary character in all eight "Harry Potter" movies from 2001 to 2011 and he says it's going to be odd for him to watch someone else take on the role in the upcoming London West End stage show "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child".

The 26-year-old said: "It's weird. But I'm happy for it to go on without me. I've no ownership of it."

When asked if he'll go and watch the production, he added: "Now that I know (Harry's in it) I actually really want to see it. It would be a mental thing to try and see it with lots of very excited 'Harry Potter' fans. But I kind of would like to know what happens now."

Bankrupt 50 Cent reveals stacks of bank notes

Bankrupt rapper 50 Cent has given his fans a glimpse inside his fridge - revealing stacks of bank notes.

The rapper, who revealed he was bankrupt just months ago, took a camera crew around his kitchen in a new Instagram video - before opening his fridge door to reveal its contents, reports mirror.co.uk.

The star had stacked up countless dollar bills on the shelves, as he captioned a screenshot: "Gotta keep a cool little $tash and some Effen Vodka Happy Holidays. #EFFENVODKA #FRIGO #SMSAUDIO."

He captioned the video: "LMAO OFF WE AT LUST TONIGHT, girl you better get to work early 50 coming. #EFFENVODKA #FRIGO #SMSAUDIO."

He ended the video by grabbing a piece of cheese and munching it in a close-up shot.

It's not the first time the star has poked fun at his money situation.

Back in October, he posted a video to his Instagram page showing him literally rolling around in cash.

The rapper was once estimated to be worth $150 million, but is now reported to be $28 million in debt.

Kim plans 'makeover' after delivering baby

Reality star Kim Kardashian is reportedly planning a full makeover using plastic surgery after welcoming her second child, who is due in December.

"Kim is going to do a massive plastic surgery makeover after she gives birth this baby," a source told radaronline.com.

"Kim has been discussing the surgeries she wants to get done and talking to doctors about them... (and) talking about which doctors she wants to put on the payroll," the source said.

"She wants to get her b***s done, a tummy tuck and liposuction," the source added.

But she won't get the work done immediately after she delivers her new baby.

"She's not planning on getting the work done the same day she gives birth because her pregnancy has been dicey as it is," the source said.

"Kim wants to get the surgeries done because she has always been obsessed with her body and wants to get back in shape quickly. Her body - that is her business.

"Her body and her appearance are the driving vehicles behind her livelihood, so she has to get back into shape," added the source.

Kim already has a daughter named North West.

Veteran actor Pankaj Vishnu has turned 4th time ‘lucky’ with Zee

Television. After becoming part of shows like Pavitra Rishta, Hitler Didi and Service Wali Babu, the actor has now bagged a crucial purpose in Zee Television set's subsequent, 'Yeh Vaada Raha' produced by Vikas Seth's Trishula Productions.

The role of Shrikant Mohite (Pankaj Vishnu) revolves with he lived in the chawl which was controlled by his friend and local don 'Bhau'. The police forced Shrikant to help them trap Bhau. When the police confronted Bhau, a shoot-out took place and Bhau was killed and his son Aniket was shot in the leg, injuring him for life.



Pankaj Vishu in the past has done Hindi serials like Pavitra Rishta ( Ajit lokhande- Zee tv),Hitler didi (zee), Service wali Bahu (zee) and many episodics like Saavdhan India, Crime Patrol, Code Red, Bhanwar and CID. He has also done lots of TV Commercial to name a few Vodafone, Saavan.com (Ranbir Kapoor), Kurkure (Juhi Chawla), IPL 2014, Kingfisher, Star mutual fund, Lifebuoy and also lot of Marathi serials in the past like Char Divas Saasuche (super hit marathi show which had run of 11 years), Avgachi sansar, Damini, Samantar and Marathi films like Mukhavte, Maan sanman, Sevatcha purava, Mazhya navrayachi bayko, Yudh, Jeevapad, Navra hawa all rounder, Krishna kathchi Meera. He is also been part of HINDI PLAYS LOOT, PAAN KAUR NAKE JAAKE, BAS NAQAB UTHNE TAK and Marathi Plays RANANGAN, COTTAGE NO 54, MAZA CHHAN CHALLAY NA, BAYKO KAMAL MEHUNI DHAMAL.

In the past he has also received several awards like Best Face of the year 2003 by Times Group, Best Actor Sanskruti kala darpan, Best supporting actor Zee Marathi award, Nominations for Pavitra Rishta for character of Ajit Lokhande.

Dubai film fest to honour Naseeruddin Shah

Veteran Indian actor Naseeruddin Shah, who has worked in over 200 films, will be presented the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 12th edition of the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)

"Honoured to present the legendary actor Naseeruddin Shah with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Shah has appeared in over 200 films in a remarkable and diverse career spanning 40 years. aa#aZDIFF15a aa#aZmydubai," read a post on the official Facebook page of the gala.

DIFF will be held here from December 9-16.


Naseeruddin has impressed cine-goers as well theatre enthusiasts with his performances, which have cut across all genres.

The actor has done roles as varied as that in "Masoom","Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro", "Sparsh", "Sarfarosh", "Iqbal", "A Wednesday", "The Dirty Picture" and "Dedh Ishqiya".

The 66-year-old is a National Film Award winner, and is married to Ratna Pathak Shah, who is also a respected actor in the Hindi film industry.

No actor of Dilip Kumar, Big B, Balraj Sahni's level now: Javed Akhtar

Veteran writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar feels the acting standards of this generation have largely improved from earlier eras but still there is no one of the calibre of Dilip Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan or Balraj Sahni.

"This could be something controversial I say but leave aside actors like Dilip Kumar, Bajraj Sahni or Amitabh Bachchan, who were brilliant actors, I don't think that currently there is any actor who is of the standard of these actors," he said at a media interaction during a seminar on Perfecting Indian Cinema.

"But the paradox is that by and large, acting standards have clearly improved as compared to previous times. The hamming evident earlier is absent today. Some positive developments have happened but this is also true that you don't have another Amitabh Bachchan, Dilip Kumar or Balraj Sahni," he added.



Akhtar, along with Salim Khan was responsible for some of the most memorable stories in the films of the 1970s and the 1980s. At the same time, they were also the brain behind melodramatic dialogues such as "Mere paas ma hai".

Akhtar feels in some places things have improved in the industry while it's become worse in some departments.

"Perhaps you can say that the writing standard isn't up to what it was previously. It's also true that the cliches, theatrical dialogues are not seen nowadays. The emotional depth now is insufficient and should be more. Earlier, there used to be so much theatrics and aMa' and other kinds of drama, that this generation got so irritated by it and they went on a separate path," he said.

He lavished praise on another writer-lyricist Gulzar's daughter Meghna's recent film "Talwar" for its dialogues. "Any good film of today, the dialogue is of such a type that you wonder, awow, can I write it like this. We recently saw 'Talwar', see the dialogues in the film, there's not one dialogue which looks out of place."

Settle slapping incident dispute by apologising, SC tells Govinda

Reminding Govinda that he was big Bollywood star of yesteryears, the Supreme Court on Monday asked him to settle a dispute with a man whom he allegedly slapped in 2008 by apologising to him.

Pointing out that what may hold good in "reel life" may not hold good in the "real life", a bench of Chief Justice designate-Justice T.S.Thakur and Justice V. Gopala Gowda counselled Govinda that as he was "a big hero, show your big heart" and apologise and settle the matter.

Asking Govinda to settle the matter with Santosh Ray, the bench said: "We enjoy your films, but, cannot tolerate you slapping somebody."

The court's observation came in the course of the hearing of a petition by Ray challenging the Bombay High Court order quashing his complaint holding that there was no material supporting his allegation of criminal intimidation by the veteran star.

As the bench viewed the video clip of the alleged act of violence on a mobile phone, the court observed that such acts in public places could not be appreciated.

It directed the listing of the matter for further hearing on February 9.

Ray had on February 2, 2009 lodged a complaint against the veteran star accusing him causing hurt, intentional insult with an intent to provoke breach of the peace and criminal intimidation.

His complaint before a magistrate's court was quashed by the high court in 2013. The high court had observed: "No doubt some incident had occurred. However, there is no material to prove criminal intimidation. It appears that the complainant was instigated to file the complaint after a year."

After erotic thriller, Sharman eyes biopic, sci-fi genres

Actor Sharman Joshi says he enjoys dabbling in different genres as an actor and, given a chance, he'd love to explore the experience of working either in a biopic, a historical drama or may be a sci-fi entertainer.

The actor, who will be soon seen in "Hate story 3", said here: "I always feel like doing something new everytime. That's why I have tried almost all genres in my career. Now I want to do a historical, a sci-fi (film) or a biopic.

"I wanted to act in an erotic thriller and now it has been listed off."

He is especially keen on a biopic.

"I would love to do a biopic. It's a challenge to portray an actual character," he said.



Asked which personality would he like to portray on screen, Sharman said: "There is no particular choice. Actually, it depends on the makers and writer."

Sharman, whose work has been appreciated in films like "Rang De Basanti", "Life in a... Metro" and "3 Idiots", said that with experience, he has realised that "you can't say 'never'" in the film industry.

"You have to be open to all possibilities. As an actor, I thrive on constant challenges, and changes. Otherwise, work gets boring," he added.

Directed by Vishal Pandya, "Hate Story 3" also stars Zareen Khan, Daisy Shah and Karan Singh Grover. Written by Vikram Bhatt and Madhuri Banerji, the film is a sequel to Pandya's 2014 thriller "Hate Story 2", and is scheduled to be released on December 4.

Intolerance more a political than social issue: Subhash Ghai

With no end to the debate over "growing intolerance" in the country, filmmaker Subhash Ghai says the whole issue is politically motivated, instead of being relevant to the society.

`Babuji says - intolerance comes from intolerant people who are deprived of power, corruption, promotions, facilitations because of changes made. If 100 crore people living in poverty for 70 years have learnt tolerance as their virtue and strength, so why to debate on 12,000 intolerant gems," Ghai tweeted.

`Finally we can see today that intolerance is more of political issue than a social issue where 124 crore people, including (the) poorest (have) been tolerant,` he added.



Ghai's comments were perhaps in reference to recent incidents, involving Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan, who faced the wrath for their views on growing intolerance in the country.

The director, who has given cinematic gems like "Karz", "Ram Lakhan", "Khalnayak" and "Pardes", also shared a link leading to his Facebook page on the micro-blogging site to elaborate his point of view.

The Facebook post read: `So finally truth has come out today that intolerance is more of a political farce than a social or communal issue where 124 crore people including poor and poorest job less less fortunate have been tolerant for years. Treating it as their virtue to be tolerant within given situations. And move ahead with new inspirations.`

Sanjay Leela Bhansali: It's fashionable to run down mainstream cinema

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is here to create a different world for audiences, and that may not be in Dharavi

Before we can ask him a question, Sanjay Leela Bhansali asks us one: "How many questions are you going to ask me?" As many as it takes to get a good interview, we say.

"Then, it's best I stay quiet," he laughs. The director-producer seems to be in a good mood although he is a fortnight away from the release of his big ticket love extravaganza, 'Bajirao Mastani'. The movie, whose seed was sowed as early as 2003, is the story of Peshwa warrior Bajirao (Ranveer Singh) and his love interest, Mastani (Deepika Padukone). It's taken 12 years and multiple star cast changes for him to get here. First, Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai were being considered for the title roles, but since they split, the film hung in limbo. He then wanted Khan and Kareena Kapoor, but abandoned the project to work on 'Black', 'Saawariya', 'Guzaarish', and 'Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela'.

Bajirao's first trailer released recently and it's got all the regular Bhansali trademarks - opulent settings, lavish clothes, sizzling chemistry between the stars and lots of drama. Though the 12 years haven't changed his screenplay, says Bhansali, the treatment has. "The audience has changed, so has the business of Bollywood. The audience is more evolved. I haven't changed the characters, but the making is tighter, more compact. And it's obviously more entertaining. I need to reach out to the youth. It's a challenge to make it [the film] fun and still stay true to the past."

We ask him how. He purses his lips and says, "Actually, I couldn't if I tried. I was a different person 12 years ago. I would have played drama out differently.. The pitch would have been different, the sur would have been different." But we like his work from 12 years ago, too, we gush. 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam' is a favourite. "'Black' is also very good and 'Guzaarish' is better. 'Ramleela' is fabulous, and raunchy!"

As he discusses his movies, you see that he excels in creating worlds that are larger than life. How does he make sure he stays real? "What is real? Can you describe the movies 'Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje' and 'Navrang' as relevant and real? Those are my favourite films. Can you describe Dolce Vita as grounded?" he says, and then adds, "I have always made movies that have their own worlds. I am not here to take a camera and go into a narrow lane to shoot. That's great cinema as well. But so is my art. We need my kind of cinema. People tell me they come to see my movies because they can't imagine these worlds [on their own]. It's hard work to take someone to a different place that doesn't exist. A film doesn't have to be shot in Dharavi. It has become fashionable to run down mainstream cinema."


Despite his romanticism and exaggerated rendition of mad, passionate love, Bhansali has somehow managed to make sure his female characters are brattish, sexual and always independent. "If you start being conscious of what you create, work reeks of thought and malice. I like a character because s/he is strong - they face roadblocks and get by. My cinema is not about large social issues or sending out a message. It's about personal grief and suffering and overcoming it. And through it, my characters stay dignified."

He lets his mind stray, and then says, "But it can also be that I have been surrounded by strong women since I was a child."

The conversation veers to his reputation of taskmaster. Does he instruct his actor? "Instruct less," he says, and adds, "It has to be a participatory process. I tell them, this is the line, say it. If they don't say it right, I see if I can add something. Space is important; actors need to grow. I respect the intelligence of my actor."

He is happy that his latest offering is inspired by history. "We need period cinema. Every time 'Mughal-E-Azam' was screened, my father took me to watch it. I have seen it 18 times. Why did he do that? We need to understand our past, architecture, painters, classical music, weavers... that's how we keep them alive."

That said, he has a simple appeal before the film opens: "Be in a state of love. Otherwise, my telling a love story is of no use. Just go there and be in love, and all is good."

Making music
"Although directing was tough, making music is tougher. It's always tough to find a sound that doesn't sound old fashioned, and people can sing to. Today's audience is clear - they like it or don't. Deewani Mastani is a song I made in 2002. I've held it inside, simmering for long. When I had to shoot it, I decided to give it the best set, best choreography - and it's the same melody. To make it modern while keeping the romanticism alive, was tough. I listen to its music every day. My car commute starts and ends with tracks from Bajirao. My poor driver is troubled."

Rahman's romantic ballads steal Delhi hearts

Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman stole many hearts with his romantic numbers like "Dil Se" and "O Humdum Suniyo Re" during a jam-packed concert here.

The show, which was a part of this year's edition of the multi-city music festival NH7 Weekender, today took place at Dwarka's mela ground amid high security.

This year of the festival includes a starry line-up of musicians like famous international DJ Mark Ronson and American thrash metal band Megadeath besides Rahman.

"When I checked the line-up yesterday after arriving here, I thought what am I doing here. It has such an interesting line-up and also felt the whole generation of music has changed. Hope you will enjoy me. God bless you," Rahman said before the concert.

Dressed in a shimmery suit, the "Jai Ho" composer was greeted on stage amid loud cheer from the audience, which comprised mostly of youngsters.

He began his performance with romantic number "Only You" followed by the title track of Shah Rukh Khan-starrer "Dil Se".



The 48-year-old composer, who is known for working with emerging talents, also gave opportunity to new singer Shaswat Singh who set the mood right with his first Bollywood rendition "Wat Wat Wat" from the recent release, "Tamasha".

Before moving to one of his famous Bollywood albums, "Rockstar", the Mozart of Madras said, "In a concert like this, you need to have a rockstar."

Rahman sang almost all the numbers from the Imtiaz-Ali directed 2011 film, be it the high-pitched "Nadan Parinde" or the soothing "Jo Bhi Main".

He also crooned hit compositions from his other Bollywood albums like "Highway" and "Saathiya".

Besides his Hindi numbers, the music composer also enthralled the audience with a Tamil number from his latest collaboration with veteran filmmaker Mani Ratnam.

Sharmila Tagore: Shouldn't impose on the younger generation

Icon Sharmila Tagore shattered stereotypes in Indian cinema and still continues to make heads turn in her public appearances.

The versatile actress, who hasn't been seen in films recently, believes seniors in the film industry are still treated with respect and not brushed aside even though the young generation has taken over.

After facing the arc-lights for half a century, the cinema veteran, mother to actors Saif and Soha, is supportive of the younger generation having their way.

"I have been working for long and there comes a time when the young generation takes over. This is a country of very young people. Naturally they want young people on screen. It's very nice, we have a young workforce, confident, intelligent and ready to face the world," Tagore told IANS in an interview here.

Tagore made her acting debut at the age of 13 when she began shooting for auteur Satyajit Ray's "Apur Sansar" (World of Apu), the last in the celebrated Apu trilogy. The film was released on May 1, 1959.

Since then, audiences have seen the multiple National Award winner transform from film to film. Be it Tapan Sinha's "Nirjan Saikate", Hrishikesh Mukherjee's "Anupama" or Shakti Samanta's "Kashmir Ki Kali", Tagore's repertoire has been a rare combination of critical and commercial success at a time when women were cast in secondary characters.

Related by birth to the famous Tagore family of Bengal that gave to the world Noble laureate Rabindranath Tagore, she continued her winning streak with meaty roles even after her marriage to Indian cricketing legend Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.

And at 70,, the graceful Tagore, on an acting break, concedes "working is tiring".

Additionally, she is conscious of the fact that seniors have to behave responsibly.



"And we also have a place because in India, as you have seen, senior people are still respected and it's not as if we are brushed aside. We also have to behave and we shouldn't impose ourselves and behave as if we are competing with the younger generation. So, there is space for all of us," the Padma Bhushan awardee explained.

From being the sex symbol of yesteryears (bikini clad diva in "An Evening in Paris") to delivering power-packed performances in cult movies like "Aradhana", Tagore exuded confidence in the most demanding of roles that she was cast in by the masters of Indian cinema.

"It's come from experience... not just (working with) Satyajit Ray. That's an important factor, he was my mentor, but I have worked with Tapan Sinha, Asit Sen and so many wonderful directors. In Bombay (Mumbai) I have worked with Hrishikesh Mukherjee; so everybody has contributed to being who I am today,"Tagore said.

In the 1960s, her bikini shoot for a magazine cover (the first Indian actress to do so) created quite a stir. Her famous bouffant set the trend.

How did she take the criticism that came her away?

"They are good in a way. Nobody likes to hear them. Everybody is emotionally vulnerable, but in the long run we are public figures. Some will like us, some won't. We have to develop a coping mechanism," Tagore explained.

Both her star children have developed their own ways of dealing with criticism, she added.

Is there anything that she has gained from the younger lot?

"How to travel light... Soha has taught me to do that. And also I have learnt to be a bit more relaxed. The younger generation is relaxed and multi tasks," Tagore quipped, adding she is "getting there" when it comes to being tech savvy.

Ram Gopal Varma: Sridevi's chapter in my book is a love letter

His admiration for Sridevi is not known to many but filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has opened up about it in his autobiography by dedicating a chapter on his celebrity crush.

In the book titled "Guns and Thighs", Varma describes Sridevi as the "Goddess of beauty" and why he cannot forgive her husband Boney Kapoor.

"It was a love letter... I was going overboard but that was my feeling. Everyone can have a crush on anyone, be it on a real person or a celebrity, you enjoy that feeling of high... It is almost like a drug.

"...To see Sridevi making tea in Boney Kapoor's kitchen was a huge letdown. I won't forgive him because he brought the angel down from heaven to the kitchen of his apartment," Varma said while confessing his love for the "Chandni" star during a session at Times Lit Fest.

Moving on, the "Satya" director was asked about his feelings for actress Urmila Matondkar, who was considered his muse.

Varma revealed in the book that capturing Urmila's beauty on camera was one of the reasons behind making "Rangeela", which turned the actress into a superstar overnight.



"I honestly feel it is important for director to get obsessed with the characters. I think it is similar to how I shot Amitabh Bachchan in 'Sarkar'. He is obviously not a woman but I was feeling a high to capture his close-ups and highlight his minutest of expressions. That way, I don't see a fundamental difference between a 'Rangeela' and a 'Sarkar'," he said.

Among the people, who Varma has dedicated his autobiography to, is author Ayn Rand, best known for her book "The Fountainhead".

The filmmaker said it is his greatest dream to adapt the book into a movie.

"My greatest dream is to make a film on 'The Fountainhead', which I have been restraining from doing because it is so much in the mind and I am yet to able to decode that, for example if you read about Howard Roark or think about him then it is very difficult to see him in person.

"The moment you see him in person, you would think how he is moving, how he will smile, how will he have a sip of coffee... But that's my all time dream to make the film."

Sonu Nigam sets South African records for Indian shows

Indian playback singer Sonu Nigam set several records with sold-out concerts in two South African cities at the weekend on the next leg of his world tour with his show "Klose to My Heart".

Nigam not only brought a 40-piece concert orchestra to the African continent for the first time, but sold out for major venues in Durban and Sun City for an Indian concert in record time.

He performed on Saturday night to more than 6,000 fans at the Sun City Superbowl. "Wherever I go, whether in America, Dubai or elsewhere; whenever they ask me, about my favourite audience; then I say to them all of you are great, but one of my most favourite audiences have been the audience of South Africa," Nigam said before he belted out scores of his own personal favourites of songs by legendary singers from Indian cinema and those made famous by himself during his career.



Explaining the concept of his latest venture, Nigam said it was not easy to put together as he thanked the musicians and technicians.

Nigam promised them an experience of a lifetime as he introduced the sole female member of the 60-piece band, violinist Shruti Bhave, to play the opening strains of one of his most popular songs, "Suraj Hua Madham".

Introducing the orchestra, Nigam said, "They will give you an experience of what it must have been like when greats like Mohammed Rafi sahab and other were playing together. So enjoy the feeling of being in that zone."

Shekhar Kapur: Nothing I say has to do with others' lives

Internationally renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who often uses the digital platform to express his views on various subjects, says his opinions are based on his own experiences and are not about "others' lives".

Bollywood actor-producer Aamir Khan faced a backlash for his comment on "growing despondency" earlier this month. While Kapur's recent tweet seemed to target the superstar, the "Masoom" director said that it wasn't.

He had tweeted earlier this week: "Lessons of Life: Problem with fame is you now constantly need fame to prove your worth to yourself. A child constantly crying out for attention."

One of the Twitter users commented that at least a "wise person like @shekharkapur should have watched complete interview of @aamir_khan! Sad!"

Kapur replied saying: "Nothing I say has to do with others' lives. My tweets are lessons of life to myself, not others... my own experiences."



In another tweet, the filmmaker shared that for culture to flourish, it "must grow and absorb conflicts inherent in change or it becomes like a river that ceases to flow and begins to fester".

He also tweeted that "40 percent Indians live desperate oppressive lives. In poverty, cast, no sanitation, water, food, dignity etc. Wonder how they feel about #Intolerance".

On another note, he hailed "Court" - helmed by Chaitanya Tamhane by calling it "the most stunning Indian film I've seen in 20 years. Not since Satyajit Ray have I seen such a cinematic power".

"Court" is India's official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category of the upcoming 88th Academy Awards.

'Yellow', a special film for Riteish Deshmukh

Riteish Deshmukh, whose Marathi production "Yellow" has been selected as the opening film of the first International Film Festival for the Persons with Disabilities (IFFPD), says it is a "special film" and he is "honoured and excited" with the selection.

"'Yellow' is a special film and we are honoured and excited to be the opening film at the first international film festival for persons with disabilities. Such initiatives are important and will help spread the necessary awareness," Riteish said in a statement.

The film's director Mahesh Limaye called it a "proud moment for the entire team".



"We are honoured to be the opening film. I'm very happy for Gauri Gadgil (on whose life the story is based) who chased her dreams and they came true. She is the inspiration for all of us," he said.

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), union ministry of social justice and empowerment, has collaborated with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to organise IFFPD, a unique three-day film festival for persons with disabilities. It will be held on December 1-3 at Siri Fort here.

The festival will conclude on December 3, which is also observed as the International day of Persons with Disabilities.

"Yellow" is selected among one of the eight features in the competition category and will be screened on Tuesday.

Team 'Tamasha' to celebrate film's favourable response

Imtiaz Ali's latest entertainer "Tamasha", featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, has amassed Rs.38.23 crore in the opening weekend, thereby giving the movie's team a reason to party.

According to a statement by the film's makers, the opening day Brought in Rs.10.94 crore, day two Rs.13.17 crore and day three was Rs.14.12 crore -- taking the overall figures to Rs.38.23 crore.

To raise a toast to the numbers, Ranbir and Deepika have planned an impromptu party on Monday night at a suburban restaurant here. The duo looked into all the preparations of the party and has personally sent out the invites to their industry friends to be a part of their success.

"Ranbir and Deepika are completely overwhelmed with the response," said the film's spokesperson.



The preparations of the party were made in a time frame of just three hours.

"Tamasha" narrates a story of internal conflict. It is about two individuals, who meet while on a holiday and decide to make-pretend during the trip, but problems erupt when they return to their real life.

Largely, the movie is the love saga of a storyteller who falls in love with a girl who helps him to rediscover his lost self.

Presented by UTV Motion pictures and Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, "Tamasha" is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. The film released on November 27.

Arjun Kapoor to endorse Smith & Jones ketchup

Bollywood actor Arjun Kapoor, who essays a perfect househusband in the upcoming movie "Ki and Ka", has made a choice to endorse Smith & Jones sauces, ketchups and condiments.

"Ketchup is one condiment which we use in our food all the time," Arjun told IANS.

"It is a habit that I love to have, and a chance to endorse a product I grew up eating won me over. Who does not like a bit of twist to their everyday food," added the actor, who has amassed a fan following with films like "Ishaqzaade" and "2 States".

Arjun also endorses men's grooming products and the healthier travel choice -- bicycles. But for Smith & Jones, he became a natural choice after "Ki and Ka".

In the movie where Arjun works opposite Kareena Kapoor Khan, he manages the home and kitchen duties with a flair.



Being part of the film, Arjun's ability to manoeuvre the kitchen convinced the brand to sign him up as their face.

"Arjun Kapoor has a chilled out acting style and a great sense of humour that has endeared him with his youthful followers. So he's truly an inspired brand fit and we're excited to have Arjun join us in a fun-filled adventure," said Ajay Gupta, managing director, Capital Foods.

With a versatile range of products in his kitty and an interesting film coming up to add to his daredevil image with "Khatron Ke Khiladi", Arjun has a tempting 2016 ahead.

Sharman Joshi: Happy with the censors for 'Hate Story 3'

The censor board, which has been in news for its decision to shorten a kissing scene in Hollywood film 'Spectre', has left the team of forthcoming 'Hate Story 3' Bollywood erotic thriller happy. The film's lead actor Sharman Joshi says an 'A' certificate was rightly granted for the entertainer.

"The censorship for 'Hate Story 3' has already been done. We've received an adult (A) certification and the erotic aspect of the film is of course, retained. We're happy with the censors and the audience will also be happy with the film," Sharman said here.

The trailer and a few songs of the film have already given a hint of the content that the film will have.



Sharman has a message for couples.

"Hurry up and immediately book your corner seats for the film, you can enjoy it a lot more," he quipped.

Sharman plays a corporate executive in the film and is seen protecting his ladylove from the prying eyes of a pervert. About his role, he said: "It's looking interesting and I did this film because of these interest levels.

"The response has been very encouraging. Even our industry colleagues are encouraging us through phone calls and whenever we meet personally. They're all happy for us because they know the kind of hard work that goes in."

"Hate Story 3", also starring Zareen Khan and Karan Singh Grover, is directed by Vishal Pandya.

Find Out: Why is Sidharth Malhotra maintaining a Diary?

Sidharth Malhotra has a new habit that he follows. The actor has started maintaining a diary.

Don't be surprised if you see Sidharth Malhotra walking with a diary.

In his next film, where he is paired opposite Alia Bhatt, Sidharth will be seen playing a writer.



Since his character in reel life is such, the actor is living his character in real life as well.

He has taken up the habit to make a note of things, whatsoever.

The diary, we hear, has a collection of various things like his thoughts, some learnings, quotes/statements that he likes, some of his dialogues among other things.

A source close to Sidharth says, `He will play a writer in this film that also stars Alia Bhatt. So, to stay in character, he has also started making a note of things and incidents that take place in his life.`

We are very sure that it will be very interesting to read this heartthrob's diary some day.

Here is what makes Shahid a directors actor

Shahid Kapoor is currently experimenting with his looks for Vishal Bharadwaj's next, Rangoon.

Shahid Kapoor's looks in his earlier films have garnered a lot of attention and appreciation.

The actor is known to have completely surrendered to his director for the look in his next- 'Rangoon'.

He surprised everyone when he went bald for Haider. Even this time around, he is experimenting with his looks.



Vishal Bhardwaj has not yet given his nod to the final look of Shahid Kapoor in the film and so the actor is currently trying different looks.

Earlier on, he had the beard look and now the excess beard has gone and he has a simple moustache look.

He is changing his look as many times as required before his director finalises the look for Rangoon.

Even if one follows his social media posts, earlier this month, the actor had the beard look but recently for Masaba's wedding, he had a very different look with the excess beard off and a simpler moustache and shorter hair.

Set against the backdrop of the Second World War, Rangoon is a Casablanca-like love triangle has Shahid playing an army officer. Rangoon is a dream Vishal has been nurturing for the last seven years, his most ambitious film to date. Directed by Vishal Bharadwaj, the film is produced by film maker Sajid Nadiadwala and also features Shahid with Saif Ali Khan and Kangana Ranaut in lead roles.

Big B to reunite with Shoojit Sircar for his next film

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has been signed by director Shoojit Sircar for his next film.

Shoojit Sircar and Amitabh Bachchan worked together in 'Piku', which was a huge hit. Now, the two are again coming together for a project that would be produced by Shoojit.

"We have signed Amitabh Bachchan for a film that I would be producing. We share a great relationship and it's always an honour to work with him. It is going to be a Delhi based film," Shoojit told PTI, without divulging much details about the project.



The film will be produced by Shoojit's production house - Rising Sun Films.

"We have locked a script and it will be helmed by a new director Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury," the 'Vicky Donor' director said.

The film will start rolling in February 2016.

Censor trouble for 'Angry Indian Goddesses' song

The Censor Board has not cleared 'Dil Dola Re' song of an upcoming film 'Angry Indian Goddesses' over the word 'Dildo'

Director Pan Nalin's 'Angry Indian Goddesses', which has been appreciated at various international film festivals, is all set to hit theatres in the country this week.

However, if whispers in the industry circles are to be believed, the film has landed in trouble over its song, Dil Dola Re. The makers of the film are finding it difficult to get the number cleared by the Censor Board as the phrase Dil Dola Re has a double meaning. The cast includes Sandhya Mridul, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Sarah-Jane Dias, Anushka Manchanda, Amrit Maghera, Rajshri Deshpande and Pavleen Gujral.



According to a source, "The song is not being allowed to air on television as the word 'Dil Dola Re' can have a double meaning as there seems to be a pause after Dildo and is thus being misinterpreted. It was rejected twice by the Censor Board."

Confirming the news, a source close to the film says, "Yes, the song was not cleared to be aired on TV given its lyrics. The track is nothing, but a woman expressing her joy using quirky lyrics and has, in fact, become popular on the Internet."

When contacted, Pan Nalin says, "This song highlights a struggle of one of the goddesses, Joanna Mendes, who accepts B and C grade movies in order to reach her goal of becoming a Bollywood star. In the movie we see Joanna practicing her dance moves to the tunes of song called Dil Dola Re for her forthcoming film shoot. We frankly don't understand what will be achieved by censoring this."

Nandita Das feels 'inspired' in Lahore

Actress Nandita Das, who was in Lahore for a two-day festival, found the experience inspirational.

The actress, who has earlier worked in Pakistani film "Ramchand Pakistani", was here for two-day Khayaal Festival - an endeavour to promote art, literature, discussion and debate in Pakistan.

"Thank you @KhayaalFestival for having me here in Lahore. You push the boundaries of culture to bring about change. Felt inspired," Nandita tweeted.


When IANS asked her about the fest earlier, she said: `It is bringing together writers, thinkers, filmmakers, artists, actors and musicians to discuss and debate various issues. I am in two sessions and one of them will be a conversation with the Pakistan director/actor of the film on Manto.`

Nandita is working on a script to trace the life of Pakistani short story writer Sadat Hassan Manto.

Rajkumar Hirani finds his match in the ring

Rajkumar Hirani's second production, 'Saala Khadoos' turns a national level boxer into an actress

When actor R Madhavan who lives close by came to Rajkumar Hirani with a script he had been working on with a young director, Sudha Kongara, the filmmaker was immediately interested in co-producing it with him. Rajkumar Hirani's second production, a Hindi-Tamil bi-lingual, Saala Khadoos, is the story of a rustic fisherwoman who Madhavan's character, a retired boxing coach, grooms into a match-winning boxer.

What Hirani wasn't sure about was casting a real boxer in the lead as Sudha and Madhavan suggested. Their argument as they went from one association to another, watching matches, was that the fights needed stamina and intensity and only a boxer would make them look real. They must have auditioned at least 100 boxers before they finally found their girl in Ritika Singh. She is a national-level kick boxer who is a black belt in karate. She has also learnt mixed martial arts and participated in Raj Kundra nad Sanjay Dutt's Super Fight League. Ritika Singh has represented India in Kick Boxing, Karate, and MMA.

`For the auditions we made her shoot a boxing scene just for me since I had not seen her in action in a match. I was impressed. Then, we gave her an emotional scene which required her to get angry and yell at Maddy. She took me by surprise. She doesn't try too hard, she's a spontaneous actress and an extremely focussed girl,` Hirani points out.

What's really got the 17 year old who's a familiar face in the boxing circuit the thumbs up from the director is the fact that with only a few lessons to help her grasp her dialogue, Ritika was able to convincingly carry off her scenes in Tamil. `Of course we'll get someone else to dub her voice but she was able to express herself well in the alien tongue. Hindi, of course, is her language so there was no problem there. We have not made her undergo any professional acting classes because we wanted a certain rawness. Even her diction is not completely polished,` Rajkumar Hirani adds.



They started the shoot with the climax match and Ritika went on to fight several other bouts, also sing and dance. `Most of the songs play in the background but there is one rustic dance which she has done really well, along with a love song,` Hirani applauds.

So what was the biggest challenge for his protege, you wonder, and he laughs, `Initially she had to lose some matches and Ritika grumbled that she didn't like getting hit. She would rather do the hitting herself.`

Hirani wasn't able to be completely involved with the filming since he was busy with PK at the time. They couldn't delay the shoot as Madahvan was all pumped up after undergoing a six-months training in the US and then had to shed the extra kgs for Tanu Weds Manu 2. But he admits he's been creatively involved with the editing and the music. Has he been keeping an eye on the budget too? `I'm terrible with that,` he guffaws. `I've made them do some amount of re-shooting. The idea is to make a good film.`

Rajkumar Hirani Films & Tricolour Films in association with UTV Motion Pictures present Saala Khadoos. The film stars R. Madhavan in lead role alongside Ritika Singh. The film written and directed by Sudha Kongara is all set to release on 29th Jaunuary 2016.

Priyanka Chopra: No one better than Ranveer, Deepika as Bajirao and Mastani

Priyanka Chopra feels no one is better than Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone as Bajirao and Mastani in the upcoming film 'Bajirao Mastani'.

Reportedly filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali wanted to make "Bajirao Mastani" with Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan but things did not work out.

Finally the film is being made with Ranveer and Deepika as Bajirao and Mastani.

"I will have to imagine Salman and Aishwarya first playing these roles and then I have to think of Ranveer and Deepika upstaging it. It is complicated ...I think no one is better than Ranveer and Deepika as Bajirao and Mastani," Priyanka told reporters here when asked if Ranveer and Deepikacan upstage the chemistry that Salman and Aishwarya could have created.



"This film has taken 12 years....I believe when the film is made and the actors who do it...It is their film eventually," Priyanka, who essays the role of 'Kashibai' in the film, said.

When asked about the allegations by descendant of Bajirao Peshwa I that historical facts have been "altered" while portraying the Maratha king and his wives Kashibai and Mastani in the film, Ranveer said, "I am an actor my job is to act. The producers will answer it."

The actors were speaking at a promotional event of Sanjay Leela Bhansali directed 'Bajirao Mastani' which releases on December 18.