Kawaljit Singh evicted from 'Bigg Boss Nau'

Fashion designer Kawaljit Singh, who entered the “Bigg Boss Nau” house as a wild card entry last month, was on Sunday night evicted from the show. Surprised, he conjectures that his health issues may have led to his ouster.
“I have health issues. I am diabetic. So it's not the age factor... I have played my game well. I have done my tasks super well and won them as well,” the 60-year-old told IANS over phone after his eviction from the Colors' show.
He blames the food in the "Bigg Boss Nau" house for his health troubles.
“What happens is that because of certain reasons if we don't follow the rules of 'Bigg Boss Nau', the whole house (all housemates) gets punished. In that punishment, we were given potato and rice, which is like poison for a diabetic,” he said.
Other contestants still locked inside the house include celebrities like Mandana Karimi, Suyyash Rai, Kishwar Merchant and Prince Narula.
The show is hosted by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan.

Sushant Singh: Internet is not the reason for increasing crime

Film-TV actor Sushant Singh says the reason behind increasing crime against women is not internet.


The actor was in the city to promote the new season of Life Ok's popular show 'Savdhaan India - India Fights Back' and held lack of education and awareness responsible for the rise in "sexual crimes".
"I don't agree with the fact that sexual crimes are on the rise due to internet, but the countries in which pornography is valid crime against women is less comparatively to our country," he said.
On being asked about the ongoing debate on intolerance in the country Sushant said that it had always been there.
"People saying that intolerance has increased in last six-eight months is not right. Intolerance is increasing is a right fact and the signals have gone wrong, but the strong message which should have come from government was missing. This was the lack," he said.

Kanwaljeet Singh wants Kishwer Merchantt to win 'Bigg Boss 9'

Fashion designer Kanwaljeet Singh is rooting for actress Kishwer Merchantt's win on "Big Boss 9" as he feels she is not only a strong player but a nice human being too.
Kanwaljeet is the latest contestant to be evicted from the celebrity reality show after a brief stay. The designer said Kishwer deserves to win because she acts like "the woman of the house" and has a caring nature.

Kanwaljeet Singh
"I want Kishwer to win the show. She is a very strong player, gives her all to the tasks and she is a great human being too. She takes care of everyone, cooks amazing food. She is like the lady of the house," Kanwaljeet told PTI. Besides the TV actress, the designer thinks Prince Narula and Mandana will make other two finalists.
"Prince is a very strong contender. He is amazing in the tasks and otherwise is a very sweet boy. He is just under influence of others. If he comes out of that, he can win the show.
"Mandana is another nice person. She is misunderstood in the house and even to the viewers because a lot of people gang up on her. She is intelligent, sweet and mentally strong."
About his own innings on the show, Kanwaljeet said he would have liked to stay for at least for Christmas as he wanted to celebrate the festival in the Bigg Boss house.
"I had a wonderful time in the house. It was a dream come true to be on the show but I would have been happier had I got two more weeks. It was my dream to celebrate Christmas on the show so there is a feeling that I could not fulfill that but my time on the show was amazing."
The designer added he tried enhancing the style sense of the contestants as he felt they took no efforts to dress up.
"These people used to feel it was weird to stay dressed in the house but I told them that this show is loved by all so they should make an effort to look good. I helped Kishwer dress up last week, I gave her my dupatta. I asked Gizele to tone down her make up," he said.
The show, hosted by superstar Salman Khan, airs on Colors.

Divyanka Tripathi reveals her dream birthday bash

Actress Divyanka Tripathi, who turned 31 on Monday, has taken a break from work to spend her birthday with her sister here. She says the time out was pending since long.
The actress, who has become a household name with her character Ishita in the TV show “Yeh Hai Mohabbatein”, added that she deserved a break after shooting some intense action sequences for the Star Plus show.

Divyanka Tripathi
“My elder sister stays there. I really needed this break after doing high-intensity drama scenes in my show. I look forward to spending some time with only family and closest friends,” Divyanka said in a statement.
Her dream birthday bash is having a party with Bollywood's Khan trio - Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan.
She said: “If I ever throw a birthday bash, I would like to invite all the three Khans of Bollywood and party with them.”
It has been a good year for Divyanka, who enjoyed her share of fame on small screen courtesy her TV show. And the actress hopes the good luck continues.
“It has been a hunky-dory year and way forward I’ll be celebrating my new life with this New Year. Wishing and hoping for a lot more success with a variety of work in the kitty,” she said.

'Bigg Boss 9' Day 64: Rishabh reveals his sinister plan. What is it?

In today's episode, Rishabh Sinha reveals his 'game' and some of the contestants realise who actually has the power in the house. Find out who Rishabh truly supports, what's his plan and more...

It’s high school time all over again in the Bigg Boss house! Day 64 begins with Bigg Boss asking the housemates to vote for the most insecure person inside the house. While the two new wild card entries Nora and Giselle are excluded from being nominees in this poll, the housemates vote Priya as the most insecure contestant. After fetching her “insecure person” board, Priya announces that she is glad that she has not been coined as the most arrogant or rude person in the house.

Rishabh Sinha
Later during the day, Rishabh is talking to Mandana and Giselle that he wants to look good in front of the viewers right now and is therefore being nice to Kishwer. He also reveals his plan to attack Kishwer when she least expects it and will hurt her the most. Rishabh tells Mandana that he may be playing for himself, but if a situation arises where she needs his support, he will be there for her. Mandana goes on to criticize her frenemy Rochelle by calling her ‘two-faced’. The trio realize that the power in the house lies with their six co-contestants Keith, Rochelle, Suyyash, Kishwer, Prince and Nora.
Later in the day, Rishabh and Priya guess the housemates who will be in the danger zone for the week after nominations. Rishabh makes it very clear that he is certain that Priya, Mandana and he will be a part of the nominated contestants list for sure!
Next day, the housemates wake up to 'Gandi Baat'. Mandana and Giselle are talking about Keith being a nominal captain because, in reality, the power lies in the hands of Rochelle and Prince. Speaking about Kishwer, Giselle says that she believes that Kishwer influences Suyyash and Prince too much.
She also says that she does not really mind if Suyyash or Prince become the captains as they are good human beings. When Rishabh joins the conversation, Mandana asks him who he thinks is getting nominated and he names all four of them – Rishabh, Mandana, Giselle and Priya. The trio continues to speak about how Rochelle is already treating Nora like Prince’s girlfriend but Nora is too smart for that!
Rishabh and Nora have a pool-side conversation where Rishabh tells her that he believes Nora is in her honeymoon phase right now and anything she says or does, he will forgive her for it. He also indirectly advices her to take her own stand instead of going with the majority.

Watch: 'Independence Day: Resurgence' trailer

Washington D.C.: If you were eagerly waiting for the 1996 block buster film 'Independence Day' sequel, then the wait is over, as the first trailer of the upcoming sci-fi 'Independence Day: Resurgence' has been released.

On the movie's official website, the trailer revealed the fate of Will Smith's character Steven Hiller , E! Online reports.

According to sources, the trailer also unveiled the creation of Warof1996.com - a website that is dedicated to the history of the alien invasion that happened 20 years ago.

Helmed by Roland Emmerich, the forthcoming science fiction film will star actors like Bill Pullman, who played the U.S. president in the first film, Vivica A. Fox, who played Jasmine, the fiancee of Smith's Captain Steven Hiller, Brent Spiner and Judd Hirsch, who will reprise his role as Levinson's father.

The film is slated to be released on June 24, 2016.

'The Danny Thomas Show' star Marjorie Lord dies at 97

New York: Actress Marjorie Lord, who achieved success as comedian Danny Thomas' wife on the Emmy-winning comedy series 'The Danny Thomas Show', has died. She was 97.
Lord died at her home in Beverly Hills on November 28, according to her website. The family did not publicly announce her death until Friday in an obituary for the Los Angeles Times. She was on hospice care the last few weeks of her life.
"Her health began to fade about two years ago and we thought we were going to lose her in a few months, but she would just keep rallying. I think she had the best parties of her life in the past two years," daughter, actress Anne Archer said.
"She had family and friends around her nonstop for all the last years of her life."
Lord got her start as an actress in theater before transitioning to film and television. Born in San Francisco in 1918, Lord moved with her family to New York when she was 15 and enrolled in acting and ballet classes, She was 18 when landed her first Broadway role in "The Old Maid," starring Judith Anderson. After signing with RKO
Studios she was cast in feature films "Border Cafe" and "Forty Naughty Girls".
She met her first husband, actor John Archer, on the set of stage production "The Male Animal." They married in 1941 and moved to Hollywood, appearing in two films together: "Sherlock Holmes in Washington" and "Shantytown."
She is survived by her two children and numerous grandchildren from her three marriages.

Documentary 'The Last Man on the Moon' to release in February 2016

Los Angels: "The Last Man on the Moon", a documentary about Apollo 17 Commander Eugene Cernan, will release on February 26 next year.

The release date announcement was made by Mark Stewart Productions and Gravitas Ventures, reports variety.com.

Gravitas Ventures will handle the digital release of the documentary, which includes archival footage of Cernan at the launchpad at Cape Kennedy, the Arlington National Cemetery and at his Texas ranch where he tried to find respite from a past that refuses to let him go.

The film features exclusive interviews with former astronauts, such as Apollo 12 crew-members Alan Bean and Dick Gordon and Apollo 13 Commander Jim Lovell, as well as NASA Flight Director Gene Kranz and Director of Flight Operations Chris Kraft.

Nicole Kidman thinks she was a baby when married Tom Cruise

Melbourne: She doesn't talk about him much, but Nicole Kidman has recently opened up on her marriage with Tom Cruise and the actress says that she was a baby when they got married, but doesn't regret it.


Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise. Pics/Santa Banta
The 48-year-old actress got her big break in 'Dead Calm' at age 22 back in 1989. She went on to star alongside Cruise in 'Days of Thunder,' marrying him in 1990, reports News.com.au.
Talking about her first marriage, Kidman said that any time you have a chance at something again is good, but each combination of people is different.
She added that she was a baby when she married Cruise, but doesn't regret it, adding that she doesn't discuss about him anymore because of her respect for Keith Urban.
After parting her ways from Cruise in 2001, Kidman married Urban in 2006.

Rose Siggins of 'America Horror Story: Freak Show' dead

Los Angeles: Actress Rose Siggins, who essayed Legless Suzi in television series 'America Horror Story: Freak Show', is no more. She was 43.
According to a source, Siggins was hospitalised for a kidney stone surgery earlier this week. She couldn't survive it, reports tmz.com.
Siggins was born with a rare genetic disorder called sacral agenesis and was also suffering from kidney and pancreas issues her whole life.
The actress is survived by two children, Luke, 16 and Shelby, 9.

Julia Roberts calls Nicole Kidman 'great actress'

Los Angeles: Actress Julia Roberts says her 'Secret in Their Eyes' co-star Nicole Kidman is a great actress and wonderful human being.


Julia Roberts and Nicole Kidman.
"I've known her for a long time. She's such a great actress, and we all know that, and she's so breathtakingly beautiful, and we all know that, and she's a wonderful, dynamic human being," femalefirst.co.uk quoted Roberts as saying.
"I truly adore her. I think we have very similar sensibilities and she's just incredible. She's a genuine person, I love her. I'm in love with her," she added.

Beyonce Knowles to star in Bradley Cooper's directorial

Los Angeles: Actor Bradley Cooper is set to make his directorial debut with a remake of the classic "A Star Is Born", and singer Beyonce Knowles is on board to star with him.


Beyonce Knowles and Bradley Cooper. Pics/Santa Banta
A source told pagesix.com that Beyonce has agreed to join Cooper in the leading role previously played on screen by Janet Gaynor, Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand.
"Beyoncé is a go," said the source of Cooper's remake of "A Star Is Born", which originated in 1937, was remade in 1954 and again in 1976.
"A Star Is Born" narrates a story of how a young aspirant actress and singer finds love in an actor, only to be marred by alcoholism and ambition.
The source added that Cooper is still looking out for the the rest of the cast.
"He's out to find the rest of the cast, but he may take another acting role (in the meantime). He's furiously making everything he can," the source said.
It's likely that the "American Sniper" star will do another acting role before going into production on his remake, which will be ready by end of next year or 2017.

Taylor Swift is patenting 'unforgettable phrases' from her concert tour

Taylor Swift, who has created hype for the The 1989 world Tour, recently filed requests at the US Patent and Trademark Office for five 'unforgettable phrases' from her concert tour, The 1989 World Tour.


Taylor Swift Taylor has filed trademark applications for the phrases, 'Swiftmas', 'Blank Space', 'And I'll Write Your Name', 'A Girl Named Girl' and the name of her most recent album 1989, reports a website.
Following the farewell to one unforgettable chapter in her life, the Love Story singer said that it was the most beautiful chapter in her 'story' so far.

Angelina Jolie's latest tattoo is a homage to Cambodia?

Seems like Angelina Jolie is really addicted to tattoos and the recent addition is a new ink on her forearm.


Angelina Jolie Showing off her latest body art, the 40-year-old actress was spotted at the Cambodia Film Festival in Phnom Penh and her ink was clearly visible to her fans, a magazine reports.
The black ink is believed to be tribute to Cambodia. The tattoo is linked to Buddhist beliefs and consists of sacred geometrical, animal and deity designs accompanied by Pali phrases that offer power, protection, fortune, charisma and other benefits for the bearer.
Notably, the actress adopted her first son Maddox when he was seven months old from that Buddhist-dominated country.
The Maleficent actress already has a large collection of tattoos, including the phrase 'Know your rights' written in gothic print across her nape, the word 'Determination' in Arabic script inside her right forearm and a large Latin cross tattoo on the hip.

'That '70s Show' boys united for a night out

It has been almost nine years after the American sitcom 'That '70s Show' went off air, but the show's cast Ashton Kutcher, Wilmer Valderrama and Danny Masterson recently united for a ' night out.



Wilmer Valderrama, Ashton Kutcher and Danny Masterson
Sharing a pic of trio having fun, 35-year-old Valderrama wrote on Instagram, "Three woes walk into a bar...#Family" and Kutcher shared the same pic alongside caption as , "Fam".
It was, however, unclear what brought the American sitcom co-stars together. Notably, Kutcher and Masterson will team up again for Netflix's upcoming comedy, The Ranch.

Besties Jennifer Lawrence, Amy Schumer wear same dresses at Golden Globes

It is said that great minds run in the same channel and keeping the same in mind, close pals Jennifer Lawrence and Amy Schumer are planning to wear same dresses at the Golden Globes.


Jennifer Lawrence and Amy Schumer. Pics/Getty Images In a recent interview, Jennifer Lawrence said that she is on a mission to wear the same dress as Schumer, adding that the duo are yet to figure out the exact dress to wear, reports a website.
However, as Jennifer is the face of Dior, the 32-year-old actress will agree to wear something from the French fashion label.
Notably, the Hunger Games actress and Schumer will compete for best performance by an actress in a motion picture — comedy or musical, alongside Melissa McCarthy, Maggie Smith and Lily Tomlin.

A date with 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' team in Tokyo

An afternoon in Tokyo for a tête-à-tête with director JJ Abrams and his cast barely a week before the latest instalment of Star Wars hits the marquee

On December 11, the day 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' team consisting of director JJ Abrams, actors Daisy Ridley, John Boyega and Adam Driver decided to speak to the media in Tokyo, the weather Gods played truant. A photo call event at the Disneyland had to be cancelled due to incessant rains and strong breeze. Later, however, the team addressed the press in the glittering ball room of Sheraton hotel, situated right next to the Disneyland.

(From left) John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, JJ Abrams and Adam Driver with BB-8 at the press conference for 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'. pic/Getty Images JJ said 'Star Wars' works mainly because the core of the story has always been about humanity that seems to transcend through cultures, and this time too, they have come up with a unique story set around two young actors (Ridley and Boyega) with the evil part being played by yet another young actor (Driver).
Speaking about Ridley's character Rey, he says, "This is a young woman with a strong character and a huge heart. Her first friend comes in the form of this droid, BB8."
Driver, who plays the evil Kylo Ren, elaborates how he was fascinated by the awesome, original trilogy by George Lucas: "'Star Wars' is almost like a historical person now and you can open your imagination, steal things from the character and disregard elements that don't work for you. I watched all of them and learnt a few things that I didn't know earlier. There was already so much storytelling in the costume. You see the helmet and then you notice that you can't see his eyes and you are forced to look into something deeper."
When told that the look reminds one of Samurai fighters, Driver said, "Lucas was influenced by (Akira) Kurosawa's films, as we know, so I went back to watch those , including the 'Seven Samurai'."
What made him choose those particular actors to play such strong characters, JJ said in jest, "Because they were available," before adding, "The truth is that we were desperately looking for young actors who were talented and strong and versatile enough to be a part of Star Wars, which is an enormous responsibility. It is so much fun to watch these young actors take on the mantle. Star Wars has always been generational; the appeal of each of them can be spectacular that it can go in any direction, but the core of it is always a lot of heart, humour and humanity. These young actors have a great sense of humour and I can't tell you how necessary that is, not only on the sets but also to bring these characters to life."
Ridley pitched in to say that it was amazing to work with the senior actors attached to the film. "Anyone who loves Star Wars loves Harrison Ford. He is kind and funny and never made me feel like I was working with someone out of reach. The other two actors, Carrie (Fisher) and Mark (Hamill), came in with so much enthusiasm on the sets that it was incredible."
Though not willing to let out any secrets, JJ just said that this one has a Tokyo connection — he has named one planet in the film as Takadano. He says, "The first time I came here, I stayed in a hotel called Takadanobaba. This is my way of honouring my favourite city."
Later, at the conference, the media was introduced to BB-8, as the droid trooped in on the stage amidst much applause.

Watch SRK, Kajol, Varun, Kriti in 'Tukur Tukur' song from 'Dilwale'

Just days ahead of the film's release, makers of 'Dilwale' have launched a song titled 'Tukur Tukur' featuring the main leads Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Varun Dhawan and Kriti Sanon.
Watch 'Tukur Tukur' video:

As soon as the video was released, #TukurTukur started trending on Twitter.
On Dec 11, mid-day had reported that the 'Dilwale' stars have shot for the track which will be used in the end credits. The song was filmed at Yash Raj Studios and Filmistaan Studios over a day-and-half and choreographed by Ganesh Hegde.
King Khan was keen that all four actors of the film come together in at least one song in the Rohit Shetty flick. He wanted it to be a fun track with steps that people can easily imitate.

'Dilwale' is set to clash with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus 'Bajirao Mastani' starring Ranver Singh, Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra on December 18.

Watch Ayushmann Khurrana, Yami Gautam in 'Yahin Hoon Main' music video

Yami Gautam and her 'Vicky Donor' (2012) co-star, Ayushmann Khurrana, have teamed up yet again, this time for a music video 'Yahin Hoon Main'.

Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam Yami was keen on a college girl look in the video, which has been conceptualised by Ayushmann’s wife, Tahira Kashyap.

Ranveer Singh: To be directed by Aditya Chopra is a matter of pride

Ranveer Singh is the only actor after superstar Shah Rukh Khan to be directed by ace director Aditya Chopra and he feels extremely proud and excited for the project.

Ranveer Singh
Chopra has so far directed only SRK in all his films, from 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge', 'Mohabbatein' and 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'.
However, Ranveer, 30, does not feel any pressure.
"There is no pressure. I am happy, super charged, there is excitement and energy. It's a light romance. It's a matter of great pride for me to be playing Aditya Chopra's next leading man," Ranveer told PTI.
The "Gunday" star is excited to be doing the film, titled 'Befikre'.
"Definitely a big film for me... A big leap, a big step forward careerwise. After doing a big film like 'Bajirao Mastani' one thinks to one self...what next... Is there another film that is going to excite you and the answer is yes... Aditya Chopra's next film. The excitement is way up there," he said.
'Befikre' was announced by Chopra on the eve of his late father Yash Chopra's 83rd birth anniversary on September 27.
Chopra had last directed Shah Rukh Khan-Anushka Sharma-starrer 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' in 2008.
Ranveer, who was launched as an actor in Bollywood in Chopra's home production film 'Band Baaja Baaraat', is all praise for the director.
"He is an incredible man. A true lover of cinema. He has an amazing business acumen when it comes to films. He is a director who makes very few films...special films. He is the biggest director of Indian cinema and it's an honour and privilege for me to be cast after Shah Rukh Khan in his films," he added.
The romantic drama that stars Ranveer and Vaani Kapoor in the lead roles would be shot extensively in Paris.
The 'Ram Leela' actor is looking forward to the release of 'Bajirao Mastani' scheduled on December 18.

Farhan Akhtar: Shraddha Kapoor is wonderful singer

Actor-singer Farhan Akhtar is all praise for his 'Rock On 2' co-star Shraddha Kapoor for her fine vocal skills and said she is a wonderful singer.

Shraddha Kapoor and Farhan Akhtar
The upcoming musical drama is the sequel to 2008 hit 'Rock On' and will have stars from the prequel - Farhan, Arjun Rampal, Prachi Desai, Purab Kohli, besides Sharddha as the new entrant.
"It has been amazing working with her. She has a beautiful voice... She sings wonderfully. She has three songs.
Not just me but Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan and Loy were completely blown away with the way she sings," Farhan said in an interview here.
"She comes fully prepared for the work she needs to do. We have couple of scenes together and it has been a good experience," he said.
The 41-year-old actor revealed he has lent voice for four songs in the film, while Shraddha has sung three songs.
'Rock On 2' was in news for being embroiled in a legal battle but the issue now stands solved.
Elucidating on the matter, Farhan said the dispute was between two writers and not between producers and anyone else.
"...There was never a thing like whether the film can be made or not. There was never discrepancy on that. The thing was title credit dispute between writers. It was also at Film Writers Association, they ruled a certain way and then the court ruled a certain way. We are producers and we will follow what the court says," he said.
With the first instalment striking chord with the audiences, the 'Dil Chahta Hai' helmer said he is not under any kind of pressure on how 'Rock On 2' will perform.
"I am enjoying myself. I am not thinking about the pressure. Those things come much later when the film is nearing the release date. Right now I am happy with the fact that the film is being made," he said.
The "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" star plans to release 'Rock On 2' in October or November next year.
On being asked if he plans to turn 'Rock On' into a franchise, Farhan says, "That time will tell...Right now we want 'Rock On 2' to be made."
Farhan will be next seen is Bejoy Nambiar's 'Wazir' alongside megastar Amitabh Bachchan and actress Aditi Rao Hydari, which will hit screens on January 8.

Ranveer Singh: Want to venture into direction, writing

It has just been five years for Ranveer Singh in the industry but the actor, already, has plans to expand his repertoire and wants to try hand at direction, writing and music composition.

Ranveer Singh The 30-year-old "Ram Leela" star said he wants to get involved in the process of filmmaking in more than just as an actor.
"I will hopefully explore other avenues in the gamble of filmmaking. I would like to direct a film, write a film, be a creative producer on a movie, compose music... People like Woody Allen, Clint Eastwood, Raj Kapoor, Charlie Chaplin, Guru Dutt are my heroes, my idols," Ranveer said in an interview here.
"They are people, who put their creativity out there. Right now, I am an actor, a tool in the director's hand, a stroke in his canvas. Hopefully, one day the canvas will be entirely mine. I know it takes a lot of courage to do write, direct a film. I hope one day I will have that courage to do something like it. Right now, I don't believe in my capabilities to that extent," he said.
One thing about films, however, which the actor is not a fan of is the current promotion bandwagon.
Ranveer, who was in the capital yesterday to promote "Bajirao Mastani", looked tired and upset due to back-to-back media interviews and even took a half-an-hour "alone time" in the middle of the interactions to feel rejuvenated.
He said excessive promotions not only tire him but as a viewer too he feels one will get bored if they watch an actor for months before the movie releases.
"Promoting film is more taxing than making the film. You are working 14-16 hours a day for promotions. I don't know how this beast got created. It has become an enterprise. I don't see it going away anytime soon because of commercial aspect to each thing. It has become very taxing on the actors.
"I believe film promotions should be done only for limited period of time. I don't believe in the current system (of promotion). Of course I will support my team and if this is what they have decided I will go with it. Hopefully I will be able to change the game in the future. People in power in the industry need to take that inititave."

Anoushka Shankar performs in Mumbai

Classical musician Anoushka Shankar performed in the city.

After her Mumbai visit, she she will travel to New Delhi, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad before ending her tour in Thiruvananthapuram

Ashutosh Rana: Wrong to criticise Aamir for intolerance remarks

Actor Ashutosh Rana on Saturday said it was wrong to criticise Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan for his remarks on the rising intolerance in the country.

Ashutosh Rana
He, at a session at Agenda Aaj Tak here, said it was important to discuss the reason behind Aamir's remarks rather than creating a furore over it.
"If someone gives a statement on intolerance, we should discuss it rather than the person who made the statement," Ashutosh said, adding one should not make personal attacks and criticise the man's achievements for voicing his concern in public.
Aamir has done shows like ‘Satyamev Jayate’. We live in a vibrant country and it’s important to understand why a person like Aamir said something like that.
At an award function here in November, Aamir said that India was going through a state of "growing despondency", where his wife Kiran Rao "fears for her child, she fears for the atmosphere around us, she feels scared to open the newspapers every day".
Ashutosh, best known for his negative roles in films like “Dushman” and “Sangarsh”, said it was not possible to discuss vital issues, such as intolerance, on social media platforms.
"Whether there is intolerance in the country or not cannot be answered in 140 characters," Ashutosh said.
Ashutosh also extended his support to the artists who have returned their awards as a mark of protest against growing intolerance. He said it was "wrong to politicise the issue".
"Did people who return their awards indulge in any kind of violence? People who returned their awards did not resort to any kind of violence. They did not do any riots, burn any trains, organise any kind of rallies or bandhs.
"Mahatma Gandhi too began civil disobedience. Award Wapasi is not a wrong way to protest. If we will take any event as a politically-motivated one, we will digress from the correct path," he said.

Daisy Shah: Wouldn't have done 'Hate Story 3' if good offers came

Daisy Shah's film career failed to take off despite debuting opposite Salman Khan in 'Jai Ho' and the actress says she was "disappointed" with the dearth in offers post the 2014 movie.

Daisy Shah
Daisy is being lauded for her role in 'Hate Story 3', but the actress says she wouldn’t have done the erotic thriller if she had “good offers” in hand.
"If I had got good offers after 'Jai Ho' I wouldn't have done 'Hate Story 3'. I did not get good offers and I was disappointed, but it also gave me a push to work harder on myself,” Daisy told IANS.
The former assistant to choreographer Ganesh Acharya feels it was the "right" decision to get out of the comfort zone and try something new onscreen.
She said: “But now I feel it was the right decision to do 'Hate Story 3' as it's good for an actor to discover new roles and new characters. Now, I feel even if I would have got good offers after 'Jai Ho' I still would have done this film."
Directed by Vishal Pandya, 'Hate Story 3', which also stars Sharman Joshi, Zareen Khan and Karan Singh Grover, was released on December 4.
Daisy feels there is demand for 'masala' and bold content as well.
She said: "Sex (in Indian movies) has been selling for almost a decade. Unless you get a big star in the movie, the movie works or else you need that masala in the film. People are coming in theatres so they get entertained and they pay so much, so they need that bold content. 'Hate Story 3' has a good story and bold content, so it's like icing on the cake."

Deepika Padukone: Will miss SRK during 'Bajirao Mastani' release

She was launched eight years ago by Shah Rukh Khan and now Deepika Padukone's 'Bajirao Mastani' will clash with the superstar's 'Dilwale', which the actress says is emotional for her as she will miss him on the release day.

Deepika Padukone

Interestingly, SRK-Deepika's 'Om Shanti Om' faced Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Saawariya' in 2007 and this time it is the other way around as the filmmaker has teamed up with the actress for 'Bajirao Mastani'.

"I am definitely going to miss Shah Rukh on that day. Eight years ago, it was a very special day when I started my journey, my career. So, the feeling is there that I will miss him as he is part of some other movie. "But having said that, we both are doing very different films. As an audience it is very exciting that we will get to see two such different kinds of movies," Deepika told PTI.

'Bajirao Mastani', also starring Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra, tells the love story of Maratha warrior Peshwa Bajirao and Mastani.

The movie, an adaptation of the book 'Rau', evoked controversy after the descendants of Bajirao and Mastani objected to some songs and alleged distortion of facts.

While Deepika feels producers and the director are the "right" people to comment on the issue, she says as an audience she accepts a film for the way it is.

"As an audience's point of view, I am very accepting of the films the way they are. When I go to the theatre as an audience, I don't challenge anything or question anything. I watch the movie and then base my opinion on that."

First "Piku", "Tamasha" and now the upcoming "Bajirao Mastani", it has surely been a great year for the 29-year-old actress but what gives Deepika a sense of achievement is being the only woman in the top 10 Forbes India list (2015), which is a compilation of top earning celebrities of India.

"My exact thought was that this is a great (message) for women across the world. I have to admit that I do feel a sense of achievement on behalf of all the women that I made to the list. We usually see men topping that list, so in that way it is an achievement for me," she said

Jacqueline Fernanadez and Lauren Gottlieb

Lauren Gottlieb

Jacqueline Fernanadez

Sridevi

Shiamak Davar

Pritam

In her first,Vidya Balan to don 'cop' avatar

After bagging bold characters and dramatic thrillers like 'Silk' in 'The Dirty Picture' and 'Vidya Bagchi' in 'Kahaani', Padma Shree awardee Vidya Balan is ready for yet another challenging role.

Vidya Balan
At the book launch of 'Raakshas-India's No.1 Serial Killer' by Piyush Jha, the National award winning actress revealed that she would be playing a 'cop' for the first time in Sujoy Ghosh's upcoming film, 'Te3N'.
The 37-year old actress mentioned that the film has an amazing script and she is happy to work with the Bollywood legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
The film, directed by Ribhu Dasgupta, features megastar Mr. Bachchan and Nawazuddin in pivotal roles. The movie, which is set in Kolkata, is expected to hit the screens in 2016.
Vidya further mentioned how interesting it was for her to shoot in Kolkata with the same team as of 'Kahaani'.

Amitabh Bachchan: Vidhu Vinod Chopra takes care of his actors

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan says Vidhu Vinod Chopra is a very comfortable producer to work with.


Bachchan, who will be next seen in Chopra's "Wazir", earlier worked with him in his directorial home production "Eklavya: The Royal Guard" in 2007.
"He is a very fine producer. He takes care of the artist and creates an atmosphere where the artists never have any problems. Every need of the artist gets fulfilled," Bachchan told reporters here.
"Many actors who have worked with him before told me that if you are working with him he will take care of you. It is a great thing for any artist," he added.
The "Piku" star was speaking after recording a song "Atrangi Yaari" along with co-star Farhan Akhtar for their upcoming drama-thriller "Wazir".
Narrating an incident of how he had shown his diploma film to Bachchan, Chopra said, "When I had graduated from film institute, he (Bachchan) was huge star. I went to him, he saw my diploma film and said when do we work together.
"It's been 30-40 years... He has come from Kolkata to record the song today so I think its a great friendship," he said.
The 73-year-old actor said he came to record the song after just one phone call from Chopra.
"Our producer sir here (Chopra), keeps coming up with something. I was shooting in Kolkata when I got a call from him last night and told me it is this song, we need to shoot it, come and record a song. And I came here for him."

Sharman Joshi: A hit was important after 3 back-to-back failures

Actor Sharman Joshi says he is relieved that he finally got a hit film with 'Hate Story 3' after a string of box-office duds.

Sharman Joshi
Sharman's last hit movie was the 2012 drama-comedy 'Ferrari Ki Sawaari', after which he went through a dull phase with films like 'War Chod Na Yaar', 'Gangs of Ghosts' and 'Super Nani'.
With his recent erotic-thriller 'Hate Story 3' being a success, the actor says he has got back his confidence.
"I was going through a low phase with my three films back-to-back not working. Getting a hit was very important. The success of 'Hate Story 3' has given me that confidence again. It's a great feeling, but now I have to work harder for the next one and hope it is a success too," Sharman told PTI.
He has mostly been part of multi-starrers like '3 Idiots', 'Golmaal' and 'Life...In a Metro', but the actor says he needs to give more hits to be established as a solo star.
"To be established as a bankable star I need to give few more hits. I don't get into the economics of it, but as far as acting is concerned I have complete faith in myself. You do get typecast in certain roles, so establishing yourself takes a little time, to earn the audience's faith," he said.
Even though he is known for his comic roles, Sharman is not worried about audience's perception and says he never chooses his script based on his image.
"I never choose films according to people's perception. 'Hate Story 3' was important for me to break the mould and surprise the audience. As an actor that is what we are supposed to do. I am happy this film gave me a chance to do just that," he said.

Why is Ranveer Singh carrying a stick?

Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone are busy promoting their upcoming period drama 'Bajirao Mastani' all over the country.
The actor’s quirky dressing style has been the talk of the town and this outfit gives us the Sherlock vibe

Film franchises seem to be Bollywood's new cash machine

Bollywood filmmakers' latest formula, albeit hackneyed, is to keep churning out film after film with the same basic plot to keep raking in moolah at the box office

The present-day blockbuster economy seems to be increasingly centered around branding, as a lot of importance is laid on developing films that have a built-in fan base. To put it simply, we are talking about the emergence of the franchise culture — a tried and tested formula in Hollywood. These days, major Hindi film projects are conceived with a franchise potential in mind. At times, before a film can hit theatres, its sequel is already in the works. And talking in terms of sheer numbers, it has indeed worked for Bollywood, right from 'Dhoom' and 'Masti' to 'Golmaal' and 'Raaz'. The latest to join the club is 'Hate Story'. The third instalment of the erotic thriller brand has crossed the Rs 40-crore mark in just a week, which is far more than what the first two films could collect in their lifetime run — 'Hate Story' starring Paoli Dam made Rs 15 crore, while part deux featuring Surveen Chawla, Jay Bhanushali and Sushant Singh earned Rs 28 crore. So, are franchises a guaranteed way of setting the box office coffers ringing?

Karan Singh Grover, Zareen Khan and Sharman Joshi in 'Hate Story 3'
Vikram Bhatt, director of 'Raaz' (2002) and 'Raaz 3' (2012), who penned the first and third instalment of 'Hate Story', explains how and why a franchise is planned. "It is always a conscious effort to create a franchise. I have engineered the 'Hate Story' franchise and there were plans to make it successful even before the release of the first film in 2012. But, the (sequel) dream comes true only if the first film does well," says the filmmaker.
Picking the right subject is key to sustaining a franchise, he adds: "In 'Hate Story', I had tried to keep the erotica-thriller element intact. Each time the storyline was different yet engaging, but the erotica quotient was high. Another important element is making sure that the budget of the films are chalked out smartly to garner good results at the box office."
Mukesh Bhatt, who has produced several successful franchises including Murder, Jannat and Raaz, believes that it is the genre that makes the franchises successful. "Our franchises range from thriller and horror to romance. Once people like the first part, they look forward to a part two of the same genre and that’s why all our franchises have been successful. As a producer, I also believe that the return on investment for franchises has been higher."

Emraan Hashmi and Esha Gupta in 'Jannat 2' (2012)
But, creating a successful franchise is no mean feat, points out director Anees Bazmee, who helmed 'Welcome' (2007) and the recently released 'Welcome Back'. "Building a successful franchise is more difficult than developing a fresh concept. The audience always expects the spin-offs to be more entertaining than the prequels, so there is constant pressure of delivering a better film. One has to be patient to create better content," he says.

From left: Anil Kapoor, John Abraham, Paresh Rawal and Nana Patekar in 'Welcome Back', which released in September
Bazmee elaborates how 'Welcome Back' proved to be a good gamble. "I knew Majnu (played by Anil Kapoor) and Uday Shetty (played by Nana Patekar) became popular with the masses. So, I had to keep the humour quotient high for both characters while introducing a few extra elements. So, an emotional connect between Majnu and Uday was shown in part two," he explicates.
Sajid Khan, who tasted success with his Housefull series and has now handed over the directorial mantle to Sajid-Farhad for the third part, says, "A part two, usually, is liked or does better than or equivalent business as part one, if it was liked very much and had strong recall value. If part two does well, then part three is made, which is even more difficult because it has two better prequels to match up to."

Kainaat Arora, Vivek Oberoi and Karishma Tanna in 'Grand Masti' (2013)
Actor Vivek Oberoi, who has been part of a successful franchise like Masti, mentions that it is difficult to maintain the brand value, because taking a successful franchise ahead comes with a lot of pressure. "It's a challenge to play the same character and still be able to make the audience experience a sense of novelty. Further, considering that the character has been appreciated by the audience brings a lot more responsibility on you to deliver a familiar role which is better than the previous. Trying to make things bigger and better with the next instalment, in a way, is easier since people look forward to it, but it is definitely challenging to maintain the value of the brand," he adds.
With that statement, Vivek compels one to think of the Milan Luthria-directed 'Once Upon Ay Time in Mumbai Dobaara!' (2013), which did not receive as much appreciation as 'Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai' (2010). Industry experts believe that correct casting often plays an important role in determining the fate of a sequel. "People were trying to see Ajay Devgn in Akshay Kumar in 'Once Upon...' part two. It is not that the same star cast has to be repeated, but the actor in a sequel should be able to do justice to the designed character.
The 'Dhoom' series became a huge hit even when the anti-heroes of the films were replaced. John Abraham, Hrithik Roshan and Aamir Khan were well accepted," says trade expert Taran Adarsh.
He adds that proper release dates should be planned for sequels to rake in more money than their previous releases.

Saira Banu: Aamir Khan follows Dilip Kumar's style of doing films

Veteran actress Saira Banu says superstar Aamir Khan is following footsteps of her legendary actor husband Dilip Kumar's style of doing "meaningful films".

Aamir Khan, Saira Banu and Dilip Kumar
"Dilip sahab used to do one film at a time in two or three years and he did relevant films like 'Paigham', 'Gunga Jumna'. His classics had relevant topics... He completely devoted time for his career," Banu told reporters here.
"I don't know if today's generation will have this thing or not. Aamir Khan follows Yusuf sahab (Dilip Kumar).
Even Shah Rukh Khan is doing work and Salman Khan is also doing well," she added.
When asked if there is any unfulfilled dream of the 93- year-old actor, Banu said. "No as he has done a gamut of films".
However the 71-year-old actress reveals that Kumar wanted to retire after "Ram Aur Shyam".
"He scared me once saying he wants to retire after 'Ram Aur Shyam'. I pleaded him... He was doing 'Aadmi' and'Ram Aur Shyam'," she said.
"I literally told him please don't do it. I asked him to continue. There was a lull in between due to personal problems then he took pivotal roles likes 'Kranti'. Then he sat back and roamed different places and enjoyed life," she added.
The "Padosan" star feels the younger crop of actors are smart and intelligent.
"Yusuf sahab (is the) first superstar of Indian cinema. Today everyone is good and smart. We were not that intelligent. They know their work very well, they manage things nicely, they handle their career very well. But the times are different today. It is a different ball game today," she added.
Today, ailing Kumar, known as the "tragedy king of Bollywood", was presented with Padma Vibhushan by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh at his residence in suburban Bandra for his contribution to Hindi cinema spanning over six decades.

Shah Rukh Khan: Do not feel need of real brother, have bhaijaan

Shah Rukh Khan says he does not feel the need to have a real brother because he has one in close friend 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' star Salman Khan.

Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. Pic/Colors Twitter account During a Q&A session on Twitter with fans, the 'Chennai Express' star was asked, if he wishes to have a brother in real life.
The 50-year-old actor replied, "My two boys are now like my friends and brothers and everything so I am ok. And there is always bhaijaan."
After years of cold war between them, Shah Rukh and Salman, 49, are back as friends and have often been seen heaping praise on each other.
Shah Rukh, who is gearing for the release of his romantic-comedy "Dilwale", was also asked about when he would finish working on autobiography.
"How is writing of your book going on? How does it feel to write the heart out?" asked his fan, to which the actor replied, "A very very long process and slow... giving your heart out takes a bit of time."

Sushmita Sen poses with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan were considered Bollywood rivals ever since they won international beauty pageants in the same year — in 1994.

Sushmita Sen (left) and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan The two gorgeous beauty queens met at the recent Ambani bash. Later, Sush posted on Twitter a snapshot of herself with Ash at the party saying, "2 decades of a fairytale, V celebrate it all. Beauty has no rivalry... it gives, glows n grows... cheers b'ful." Now this is precisely the reason why I love the gracious Sush. When it comes to being warm and affectionate, there’s none like her.

'Dangal' experience changed my life: Kashmiri actor Zaira Wasim

Zaira Wasim, who was unknown a few months ago, has now become a household name in her native Kashmir after landing a role in superstar Aamir Khan's upcoming movie 'Dangal'.

Zaira Wasim with Kiran Rao. Pics/IANS
Competing with a thousand girls, Zaira never thought she would ever get a chance to land a role in the film. But luck was on her side, as she bagged the role of wrestler Geeta Phogat and got the chance to share screen space with Aamir. After completing shooting for six months in Mumbai, Zaira is now back in Srinagar.

Zaira Wasim
"I was like new to the (showbiz) world and felt nervous when I was working with my co-actors on the sets", Zaira told IANS on the phone.
"The experience has been so strong to change my life. Playing Geeta Phogat, the role demanded wrestling skills on my part. I had to go through rigorous physical and mental training," added the 15-year-old Zaira, who is currently in Class 10.

Zaira Wasim with Kiran Rao
Phogat is the first woman wrestler from India to have won the gold in the 55 kg freestyle category at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. In "Dangal", Aamir plays wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat, who trained his two daughters in the sport.
Zaira's training included exhaustive morning sessions of running, swimming and wrestling. The training made her learn to overcome anxieties.
"Before 'Dangal', I had done two ads. I got a call from Mukesh Chabra (the film's casting director) to attend an important workshop for a week. I went to Mumbai to attend the workshop. There were a lot of girls who had already done one or more ads or serials and I had to do some scenes in front of them; so, I was like 'there is no space for me'," she said.
Like other parents, Zaira too had to convince her parents to support her decision to act in the film, more so being from Kashmir.
"It was my school principal and my aunt who supported my decision. They both convinced my parents and handled the situation very well," Zaira said.
As the word of her shooting for the film spread, some netizens began trolling and bullying her and also issued self-styled life threats.
"Some nasty comments about me were posted on social media. But Aamir Khan and the rest of the crew helped me. I am still getting comments from unknown persons, but I believe in positivity and have learned how to deal with such comments," she said.
"To be honest, after getting back to Kashmir and being a girl, it haunts me how people would feel about me now. But I saw appreciation and support from my friends, family and other neighbours and I am really honoured that people are telling me I am representing Kashmir," she added.
Zaira said that the people in Kashmir should "realise their talent" as they have a "lot of potential and ability".
Does she have any plans for future in Bollywood?
"I don't have any goal or any aim which I have to follow; I am going with the flow that life shows me... I want to study, but if another film offer comes my way in future and doesn't affect my studies I will take it," Zaira concluded.

Shilpa Shetty: It was rare for actresses to workout earlier

Actress and entrepreneur Shilpa Shetty Kundra, known for her fit frame, says actresses weren't too much into working out when she had joined the glamour industry.



"Nowadays everybody is fit, but when I joined the industry, it was rare to see actresses who were into working out. At that time, they wanted that you should be a bit 'hari bhari' (fuller), (and they used to say), 'What is this? You are looking so lean like a toothpick'.
"So I've had producers who wanted me to put on weight," Shilpa said here.
The question to Shilpa was prompted by the weight loss of actress Parineeti Chopra.
Shilpa said she's happy for the "Ishaqzaade" actress, and said: "Today, we've reached a time when people are aware of how to be fit and there are so many ways you can be fit. So it's most important to bring awareness to the fact that whether you have time to do any kind of fitness regime, you can improve your health with a good diet."
Having launched her book "The Great Indian Diet", Shilpa also said it's wise to manage stress well.
"It's all about perspective when it comes to stress. There are some people who stress about not having stress. My life's mantra has been that the worst things and the best things, both are going to pass and that's how life is going to be. So you have to be who you are with a positive approach, and gratitude that you have good health," added the actress.

Madhuri Dixit: Films of different genres need to be made

Actress Madhuri Dixit Nene thinks films of different genres need to be made in order to engage all kinds of audience.

Madhuri Dixit Nene
"It is great. We do need different kinds of films on different genres to be made. You need to have different genres of filmmaking so that everyone can enjoy," Madhuri said in an interview here.
The 48-year-old actress is happy that good Marathi films are being churned out today.
"Marathi cinema is doing very well. I saw 'Katyar Kaljat Ghusali' and that was a great film. I think Shankar Mahadevan was sweet and fabulous. I had seen the original play when I was little. It was refreshing," she said.
The 'Devdas' actress was last seen in 'Gulaab Gang' and is looking forward to do good films.
"As soon as I plan something I will let you know. There are lots of scripts that I have read. I am looking at what kind of film I want to do. I want to do good films," she added.

Pan Nalin: Deepika, Priyanka can get big openings for their films

Filmmaker Pan Nalin feels in today's times stars like Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra can have a huge box opening of their films solely on their own merit.
Nalin, who recently made female-buddy-drama "Angry Indian Goddesses", feels the "Bajirao Mastani" co-stars don't need a male star to deliver a film.
When asked if he would have cast any of the leading Bollywood actress, Nalin told PTI, "We would've loved to bring in talented important stars too, but it would have been difficult. I believe Deepika and Priyanka, both are amazingly talented. They can open a film alone on their own merit. They don't need a man to do that."
The filmmaker, however, believes people cannot just venture out with an agenda to make a "woman-centric" film. "...you cannot venture out to make a woman-centric film alone, that would be a failure. You can have a central woman character with a beautiful, sensible well-crafted story around it," he said.
The success of 'Angry Indian Goddesses', which celebrates women empowerment, comes after the recently released 'Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2', which was called a 'women-bashing' film.
But, Nalin thinks the audience does not care about genderbashing in movies and both can co-exist easily.
"They don't think if it is a male-bashing film or a female-bashing film. They want to be entertained and if they are getting inspired by it, like what is happening with 'Angry Indian Goddesses', then that is great," he said.
The filmmaker says he does not differentiate between commercial films and 'indie' cinema.
"I personally never differentiate between an indie film or commercial, off-beat or mainstream. I say, make a film which will fight with 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'," he said.
"You have these films and they will continue to exist, you can't escape. There is an audience for that too. But don't say 'watch my films because I am a different kind of a filmmaker'," Nalin added.

Idea of Dilip Kumar, Elizabeth Taylor pairing scared Saira

Veteran actress Saira Bano says she would have had "no chance" of getting married to Dilip Kumar if the actor had worked with famous Hollywood actress Elizabeth Taylor in David Lean's film.

Saira Bano
The 71-year-old "Padosan" actress revealed that Lean was thinking of making "Taj Mahal" with Kumar and Taylor as the lead pair, but things did not work out.
"David Lean (director) wanted him to work in 'Lawrence of Arabia'. Then I got to know they wanted to make 'Taj Mahal' with Elizabeth Taylor and him. Imagine... Dilip sahab and Elizabeth. God! If the two would have worked then what would have happened to me. There would be no chances of me," Bano told reporters here.
When asked if the "Mughal-E-Azam" actor ever wanted to conquer Hollywood, his wife said, "I don't think he wanted to do it. I think he was not interested."
Dilip Kumar had turned down the lead role in David Lean's "Lawrence of Arabia", which then went to Egyptian actor Omar Sharif.

Neha Dhupia at a training camp in Kolkata

Neha Dhupia at a training camp for runners in Kolkata, ahead of the 25-km marathon on December 20. Pic/PTI

Shah Rukh Khan is India's Top-Earning actor

Beating the A-listers of the Bollywood - Salman Khan and Amitabh Bacchan, superstar Shah Rukh Khan has topped the 2015 Forbes list of top-earning celebrity, making the most amount of money, a whopping Rs 257.5 crore.

Shah Rukh Khan
Salman grabbed the second position followed by Amitabh, who earned Rs 112.00 crore this year.
Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni maintained his position at No. 4 from last year, while Aamir Khan stands at the fifth position for the first time with Rs 104.25.
Akshay Kumar stands at no. six, while Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar notched seventh and eight positions respectively.
Actress Deepika Padukone, who is gearing up for the release of her film 'Bajirao Mastani' stands at No. 9 in the Forbes list.
Notably, the 'Happy New Year' actor was at third position behind Salman and Amitabh in 2014.

Varun Dhawan pens 'longest, most honest' post

Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan might have shared many posts so far, but he has recently shared one of his longest and the most honest posts on the social media.

 

A photo posted by Varun Dhawan (@varundvn) onDec 11, 2015 at 3:04am PST

The 28-year-old actor took to his Instagram page to share his pic, alongside a long note that read as, "Upside down type of day woke up on some bed and ended up on another. So many things on my mind. Like will goa make it to the final. Diwale releases soon so I'm nervous." [sic]
The 'ABCD 2' actor's post further read, "Plus have a huge ad out soon. Then I'm performing at stardust. Also my best friend is getting married soon. Okay i need to get up and shower now. Btw this is the longest and most honest post Iv ever written."
Varun, who made his acting debut with Karan Johar's 2012 romantic comedy 'Student of the Year', will be soon seen in 'Dilwale' that will hit the theaters on December 18, 2015.

Sonam Kapoor: Aamir's intolerance comment was extreme, not irrelevant

Aamir Khan's much hyped intolerance statement got him a lot of haters and offenders, but he has also got a supporter in the face of Sonam Kapoor, who thinks that though the actor's comments were too extreme, they weren't irrelevant.

Sonam Kapoor The 30-year-old actress said in a conference that intolerance has always been in India, people have seen riots happening in the country from past 60 years, adding that there are too many religions, languages and cultures, but at the same time, there will always be judgments. But the fact that people know about it is a very healthy aspect, reports the Dawn.
Talking about the 'PK' star's controversy, Sonam said, "Aamir has already given clarification on his statement. If somebody is critiquing something it doesn't make him anti-national. Constructive criticism is always healthy."
The 'Khoobsurat' star added, "Aamir, one of the biggest stars of the country, said something and people became so negative towards him. Now, do you think he will ever speak about any issue like that? May be it was too extreme what he said, but it was not irrelevant."
Sonam was last seen in the family drama 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo' along with Salman Khan.

Bipasha Basu, Karan Singh Grover celebrate 'Hate Story 3' success

Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover caught on cam post dinner at a suburban restaurant in Mumbai.

Pic/Yogen Shah

 

Stay blessed @iamksgofficial ! More power to you from me @rockystarofficial @deannepanday @divyachablani @shyamliarora @sohamshah19 @shahbinals @tanujaamehraa shaju Neelu. @ninjapinto @drewnealpt vishal Kuki Golia kajal @malvikapanjabi ! Congrats on #hatestory3 success and many more to come. Stay focussed and true!

A photo posted by bipashabasu (@bipashabasu) onDec 13, 2015 at 4:51am PST

Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar conferred with Padma Vibhushan

From left: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Saira Banu, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao at a ceremony to present the Padma Vibhushan to Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar.

The ceremony was held at the thespian’s Bandra home yesterday. Pic/PTI

Himesh Reshammiya begins work on sequel to 'The Xpose'

Himesh Reshammiya has begun work on the sequel to his film, 'The Xposé' (2014).

Himesh Reshammiya He recently recorded a track with rapper Badshah for the film. The script has been finalised and casting has begun.
The Xposé had Honey Singh essaying a pivotal role. Is he part of its second outing as well? Himesh also has his other project, 'Aap Ka Surroor 2', on the floors.

Vidya Balan to replace Tabu in 'Silver Jubilee'?

Buzz is that Tabu is no longer part of Anurag Singh's upcoming film, 'Silver Jubilee'.

Vidya Balan and Tabu The film had her team up with Irrfan for the lead role.
The actress has apparently cited date issues for her exit. The makers are now keen on Vidya Balan. Vids and Irrfan — now that would be interesting too.

Dilip Kumar: Getting Padma Vibhushan was a tearful moment

Legendary actor Dilip Kumar says being honoured with Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award, was an emotional moment for him.
The 93-year-old thespian was presented the Padma Vibhushan by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh at the actor's residence in suburban Bandra in the presence of his wife Saira Banu.
Dilip Kumar with Saira Banu (left) and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Pic/PTI
"Overwhelmed today by the gesture of home minister @BJPRajnathSingh who flew to Mumbai specially to present me with the #PadmaVibhushan. Tearful moment when the award was in my hands. How happy and proud my family was. Indeed Allah's mercy and blessing," Kumar posted on Twitter.
The announcement to honour Bollywood veterans Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan and a few others with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award was made by the government on the eve of Republic Day on January 25, 2015.
Kumar, due to ill-health, could not attend the special function held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in April when other Padma awardees were honoured by President Pranab Mukherjee.
"Health did not allow me to travel to Delhi to receive the award from the President. CM @Dev_Fadnavis n Gov. Vidyasagarji too came to wish me," Kumar added. Born as Muhammad Yousuf Khan in Peshawar, Kumar made his debut as an actor in the film "Jwar Bhata" in 1944 produced by Bombay Talkies.
In a career spanned over six decades, he starred in films of a variety of genres such as the romantic "Andaz" (1949), the swashbuckling Aan (1952), the dramatic "Devdas" (1955), the comical "Azaad" (1955), the historical "Mughal-e-Azam" (1960) and the social "Ganga Jamuna" (1961).

Siddharth Roy Kapur's surprise for Vidya Balan on wedding anniversary

Taking a short break from the shoot schedule of Sujoy Ghosh's production 'TE3N', Vidya Balan is headed to Bengaluru today, where she will be presented with an award to recognise her contribution to Hindi cinema.
What's more, it's her third wedding anniversary today. Vids' producer-husband Siddharth Roy Kapur is also flying to the Garden City and has planned a romantic evening to celebrate their big day. Watch out, Vidya, a host of surprises is on its way!

Snapped! Genelia, Riteish Deshmukh at a tennis match in New Delhi

Genelia D’Souza (left) and her hubby Riteish Deshmukh’s facial expressions say a lot during a tennis league match in New Delhi over the weekend. Pic/PTI

Madhur Bhandarkar planning two new projects?

After the debacle of his last directorial venture Calendar Girls, Madhur Bhandarkar had been lying low.

Madhur Bhandarkar
There was buzz about a film with Priyanka Chopra, but things fizzled out. Bhandarkar is now planning to get back in the scheme of things with two projects in the New Year.
They will be something he hasn’t attempted yet. So, no more slice-of-life dramas?

Two new heroines opposite Salman Khan in 'Sultan'?

If the grapevine is to be believed, there will be two heroines opposite Salman Khan in 'Sultan'.


Salman Khan Though names of many established actresses are doing the rounds, buzz is that both the girls are newcomers.

One will be the lead actress, while the other will have a small, but significant role. So, who are the two lucky girls?