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‘Rab Ne…’ hits bull’s eye, breaks Yash Raj’s jinx

(IANS) Yash Raj Films’ “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi” that hit the screens Dec 12 has proven to be a breather for the production house breaking its jinx of delivering duds this year. The banner’s earlier releases this year, “Roadside Romeo”, “Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic” and “Tashan” were cold-shouldered by the audience despite major pre-release promotion though Ranbir Kapoor starrer “Bachna Ae Haseeno” managed to do average business at the box office.

However, “Rab Ne…” has given Yash Raj Films a new lease of life.

It was believed in the trade circles that the production house was releasing the film at a wrong time - when global economic slump was on and soon after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

Directed by dormant filmmaker Aditya Chopra, the film is Shah Rukh Khan’s first release of the year and the first Shah Rukh-Aditya Chopra collaboration in over eight years after post “Mohabbatein” (2000).

The film has broken all earlier opening weekend collection records for Yash Raj Films grossing approximately Rs.600 million worldwide on its opening weekend.

“It’s after a long time that a good movie has came out of the Yash Raj camp and that too with Aditya Chopra and Shah Rukh coming together after eight years,” Joginder Mahajan, a Delhi-based distributor, told IANS.

“Though the collections for the movie have not been cent percent, they have been beyond expectations so far. It is the first big release after ‘Dostana’ and has no competition till the next two weeks until ‘Ghajini’ releases Dec 25. So it has full chances of reaping the benefit,” he added.

Set in Amritsar, “Rab Ne…” is the story of a mismatched couple played by Shah Rukh and debutante Anushka Sharma and how the pair explores love in the backdrop of a dance competition.

According to a statement released by Yash Raj Films Monday, the light-hearted romantic comedy has crossed boundaries and even set records in the Middle East.

The film has also received a grand opening across all overseas markets, including Britain, the US, Australia, Europe, Africa, and other territories in Asia.

Will RNBDJ be able to beat DDLJ!

Aditya Chopra is coming back to direction after a long gap of 8 years with his Shah Rukh Khan starrer, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. His last directorial venture, again a SRK starrer was Mohabattein (2000). Now his RNBDJ is all set to release next week but the same time, the first Shahrukh Khan/Aditya Chopra venture Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge is still going strong at Mumbai’s Maratha Mandir.

What is surprising is Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge has collected 19,210 in its 683rd week on 7 shows and last week when theaters were shut on Thursday it collected 25,953 on 6 shows, this was its 684th week of a continuous run in Mumbai. It will be interesting to see if Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi will be still running after fifteen weeks because this is when Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge will most probably be celebrating its seventh century (700 weeks).

There were also rumors floating around since the terror attacks last week that Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi may be postponed to a better release time but they are not true. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi has been confirmed to release on 12th December all over India. It is also going to get a simultaneous release in Pakistan on the 12th and all eyes are on what sort of business a Shahrukh Khan starrer will do there as his following is massive in that country.

SRK loves Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

SRK, his family and friends are in complete awe of Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi after it’s private screening.

A source reveals, “The private screening was attended by Shah Rukh Khan, wife Gauri, kids Suhana and Aryan, Karan Johar, Aditya Chopra, Yash Chopra and debutante Anushka Sharma. All of them really liked the film. Yash Raj Films has had plenty of flops this year so they wanted to check if Rab Ne… had turned out well or not.”

The source goes on, ” ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ has super-hit written all over it. The movie is quite funny and has some spectacular dance sequences.”

Even the main actor, SRK thinks the same, adding, “Adi is making a film after years… It’s the story of a normal person. I am sometimes Raj or Rahul or Om before people but here is a character of a very simple person. This is very different to that. I want every girl, every girlfriend, and every wife to look at their loved one and say that this is how I love him. And it’s very different from what I have done till today as Raj or Rahul. You know talking about this film makes me smile always.”

We wish SRK all the luck for his most awaited movie.

Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi song not lifted: Music dir

From six-pack abs in that Shah Rukh Khan parades in his Om Shanti Om song 'darde-disco' to a mustache and ill fitting clothes getup in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, SRK takes up a curious journey in acting.


The song in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is sure to make people wonder as to what is going on in this film. The music of Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is already on the stands.


"This is about an ordinary person's conversation with himself. SRK plays a character who works in the electricity department. He doesn't have the words or gestures to be able to express himself in a manner which is flashy or which would attract attention. Here, he finds himself very badly desiring another person. Now, he is not used to romancing the girls and is not the kind of person who spends a lot of time with the opposite sex. He's not a poet," said Jaideep Sahni, the lyricist of the song in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.


"It was supposed to be a very easy and breezy kind of a song. That was basically the brief. The director had already given us the line and it read "haule haule". That was part of the script. It means that the character is telling himself, don't worry as she will fall in love with you," said Salim, the music director of the film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.


On one hand one has this breezy number but on the other hand is the one where King Khan seems to have two left feet. That was the brief from the filmmaker not only for SRK but also for the music directors.


"Adi's brief was very, very clear. I want a clutter breaking song and a nursery rhyme, is what the director said. The song should have a nursery rhyme quality. A simple one almost like a master teaching a student. It should have that quality. Something like the rhyme "Put your left leg in, put your left leg out" and that got us thinking in a completely different zone. That's what you hear right now. 'Dance pe chance' is that whole thought going down into those four and a half minutes. So like that concept of 'Put your left leg in put your left leg' out in a very simple Punjabi way and the Punjabi elements in which SRK suddenly says 'To hell with you and I'm on a Punjabi trip' as she is teaching him how to dance," said Suleiman the music director.


The music director duo don't seem to care too much about the rumour of their song being inspired from Adnan Sami's hit track 'Kabhi nahi'.


"It normally happens when a song becomes really popular. People cannot believe that it's such a good song, it must have been copied from somewhere. Even if there is a one per cent similarity, people say its copied. Obviously, they cannot believe that a great song can be done by itself. I feel its a very simple song without an ounce of pretension," said the music director duo of Salim-Suleiman.


It all depends on whether Adnan Sami buys into that or not.

(IBN Live)

Rare gem from Lata Mangeshkar is Yash Chopra’s Diwali gift

(IANS) It will be a rare Diwali gift for Lata Mangeshkar fans. An unreleased song of the nightingale - ‘Chanda ki Chandni’ - that she had sung for the 1997 hit ‘Dil To Pagal Hai’, is being repackaged by Yashraj Films for release during the festive season.

For Lata, the news of the song’s release has come as cheerful news, what with arthritis of the knees continuously troubling her.

She happily recalls the song. ‘It was supposed to be part of Yashji’s ‘Dil To Pagal Hai’. But the song didn’t fit into the story. So they took it out. I never thought they’d use it later,’ Lata, who turned 80 recently, told IANS.

It was Yash Chopra’s idea to release the song.

‘When Yash-ji came to know about the unreleased song in their archives, he immediately wanted it released as a Diwali gift for Lata-ji’s fans. So you could say this song ‘Chanda ki Chandni’ is Yash-ji’s gift to Lata-ji for Diwali,’ a source said.

‘Yash Chopra calls Lata as his ‘Saraswati Mata’ and shares an extremely emotional bond with her. The two share the same star sign and their birthday is separated by only a day. They get along like a house on fire. Yash-ji keeps Lata-ji entertained with his jokes. Lata-ji reciprocates with her songs.

‘Yashji in fact insists that as long as she is around no one else will sing in his films. That of course has changed now, what with the new guard led by Aditya Chopra opting for other voices,’ the source said.

Lata hardly sings film songs nowadays, her last film song was A.R. Rahman’s lullaby ‘Luppa Chuppi’ for ‘Rang De Basanti’ (2006).

For Lata, it’s a quiet Diwali at home with the family. No special plans were set after the celebrations earlier this week when her brother Hridaynath Mangeshkar turned 72 Sunday.

‘Every year there’s a kind gentleman in Pune who organises a musical event for my brother’s birthday. This year was no different. We’ve all been involved with that until Sunday. So Diwali would be slightly low-key. Of course the children would have their fun with the usual Diwali celebrations,’ says Lata.

After Diwali she intends to get her knees operated for arthritis. The operation would be undertaken at the Mangeshkars’ hospital in Pune.

Although her knees give her more trouble these days than she had ever bargained for, the nightingale’s throat continues to be in tremendous shape.

Lata has recorded Sai Baba bhajans with sister Usha Mangeshkar.

Urmila declines Yashraj offer

It’s strange to know that Urmila Matondakar who is going through a pretty lean patch in her professional life, has declined a good opportunity to save her fading career. Apparently the actress was approached by Yash Raj Films for one of their forthcoming films. But being choosy about her roles, Urmila declined the offer.

According to the unit hand from the film Hidaba that stars Shahid Kapoor and Rani Mukherjee in lead roles, Urmila was offered a role which was second fiddle to the main actress Rani Mukherjee. Apparently after going through the narration Urmila realized the length and importance of the character was not enough. She asked to make it more meaty and increase the length of it as well as she did not want to be relegated to the side lines of a character artist. Nor was the fact that she would be playing second lead to Rani who is much junior to her. Keeping those in mind, the Rangeela actress preferred to step aside.

Now it is believed that the same role has been bagged by Tabu. Urmila was last seen in Himesh Reshammiya’s recently released film Karzzzz .

(TOI)

Yash Chopra honored by The Hollywood Reporter

Yash Chopra, 76, was felicitated on October 14, 2008 at Taj Land's End, Mumbai, for his contribution to Indian Cinema and the impact created by Yash Raj Films in business in the US, by Hollywood Reporter a reputed trade journal owned by the Nielsen Group.

He was presented The Nielsen Impact Award, an international recognition for individuals who have significantly influenced the global media landscape.

Katherine Oliver, the Commissioner of the New York City Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre & Broadcasting was present at the event along with leading luminaries from the Indian film fraternity.

In 2004, Hollywood Reporter had carried a survey on the "Biggest Film Distribution Houses" in the world in which Yash Raj Films was listed as the 27th in the world, making it, the Number 1 Film Distribution House in India.

News Copyright © Sawf News.

ROADSIDE ROMEO carrying good reports

If sources are to believed, this Diwali Yash Raj Films is all set to throw a pleasant surprise in the form of ROADSIDE ROMEO. Though in its trademark manner, the production house is going slow with the promotion of the film, the fact remains that it is quite confident about the product and is assured that the film would reap benefits.

Says a source close to YRF who has seen the film, "ROADSIDE ROMEO is going to be an irresistible outing for children. It has ample entertainment for them and though the film may not take a humongous opening, mark my words it would grow enormously over the weekend."

What is it that makes ROADSIDE ROMEO special?

"World class animation and the script which is truly Bollywoodish", the source is willing to divulge, "Add to that voiceover by Saif and Kareena and the characters become instantly identifiable. Jugal Hansraj may have struggled to enjoy his standing as an actor but with support from YRF and Walt Disney, he has excelled as a director. Watch out!"

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

Yash Raj's 'New York' being shot in Philadelphia

Residents of Philadelphia were in for a surprise last weekend when they saw helicopters with FBI written across them zooming above the PNC Bank Building.

What's more there were even quite a few SWAT officers who made a dramatic entry, suspending themselves from the aircraft carrying rifles. Just as localites began to worry if there was a panic situation on hand, did they see a film crew with cameras et al shooting this whole scenario.

This was not any hostage attack or terrorist threat but the shooting of Yash Raj Films' upcoming project New York (working title) which was in progress in the busy and central area of Philadelphia.

The film's stars, namely John Abraham, Katrina Kaif and Neil Nitin Mukesh, were present as the crew along with director Kabir Khan filmed some action scenes in and around the PNC Bank Building.

While New York has been quite a prominent feature of many a Bollywood films, this was a relatively new experience for the residents of Philadelphia who after initially getting a trifle scared seemed to enjoy the most of this Bollywood film shoot.


Source : Indiafm

'Roadside Romeo' gets shorter?

If the latest buzz is to be believed, the duration of the next Yashraj Films presentation Roadside Romeo has been shortened because the production house wants to meet the deadline of its release.

Since the animation movie has been made in collaboration with Disney Studios, the YRF are under pressure to churn out a decent product and also meet the October 24 deadline for its release.

Directed by Jugal Hansraj, ‘Roadside Romeo’ has been through its share of hurdles from the start. The buzz is that the film’s creative team was changed mid-way and now the YRF has cut short its length so that the film could hit the theatres on the scheduled date.

In fact, grapevine has it that Disney Studios are irked by this step and might impose a fine on Yashraj Films for deducting the length of the film.

However, Yashraj Films deny any such news.

‘Roadside Romeo’ has Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor lending their voices to the animated characters of a romantic dog and a glamorous bitch. Javed Jaffrey plays the villainous character who wants to foil their love story.

The movie has music by Vishal Shekhar and it’s going to be the grand attraction for Diwali.

(ApunKaChoice)

YRF's John-Katrina starrer titled NEW YORK?

If sources are to be believed, Yash Raj Films' next is titled NEW YORK. Directed by Kabir Khan of KABUL EXPRESS fame, the dramatic thriller stars John Abraham, Katrina Kaif and Neal Nitin Mukesh in the lead and would soon be seeing wrap up of its principal shooting.

Since there is always huge secrecy around projects by Yash Raj Films, there is always a fair amount of speculation around the subject line and title (if it hasn't been finalized) of their film. This was earlier the case in films like VEER ZAARA, CHAK DE INDIA as well as most recently BACHNA AE HASEENO.

When contacted, YRF's spokesperson Monica Bhattacharya neither confirmed nor denied the title being NEW YORK. She simply stated, ''No name has been fixed yet for the film.'' However, even though everyone from the cast and crew is tight lipped about the film being titled NEW YORK, trade is abuzz that this indeed is the final title of the film.

(Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network)

Sonam snubs Ranbir, walks out of Shimit Amin`s film

Sonam Kapoor does not believe in second chances. The actress, whose first flick ‘Saawariya’ with the light-eyed hottie of Bollywood Ranbir fizzled out with a trace at the BO, is in no mood to give their onscreen chemistry another go. Even if it means turning down the hot combo of erstwhile banner Yash Raj and acclaimed director Shimit Amin, Sonam sticks to her ‘no Ranbir’ stance.

Sonam whose debut flick with Deepika’s baby Ranbir sparked countless theories of reported heartache that she suffered at the hands of the dishy actor is taking all steps possible to keep Ranbir at bay.

According to sources, this is the second time that Sonam has turned down a flick that pairs her opposite the actor. The sassy babe had previously walked out of a Vicky Singh's Mera Jahaan co-starring Ranbir. Though, the sultry babe has not stated any reasons for her refusal as yet, it is learnt that Sonam does not want to be involved with any project that has Ranbir.

A news daily even quoted an insider as saying, "Ranbir's name figured in Shimit's film from the beginning. Sonam was pencilled in on later. Both had given their consent but Sonam had second thoughts and excused herself."

Like the say once bitten twice shy, Sonam Kapoor has surely learnt her lessons.



(Spicezee Bureau - Zee News)

YRF gets ready to unleash its ROMEO




YRF was facing horrific times at the box office before Siddharth Anand resurrected the production house with a successful BACHNA AE HASEENO. And now it is up to a bunch of dogs to further get some smiles on with ROADSIDE ROMEO finally getting ready for release.

Readers may remember that earlier on, YRF had announced the film's arrival to be in summer 2008. However, the film got delayed as the production house was striving to get the best of animation in place for ROADSIDE ROMEO that features voices of Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Javed Jafferi.

Now the film is back in news as the film's audio has hit the stands. Salim–Sulaiman has composed music for this film which is now confirmed for 24th October arrival. Directed by Jugal Hansraj, the film would face competition from HEROES (which releases on the same day) and later GOLMAAL RETURNS, FASHION and EMI that arrive a week later.

(Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network)

Shahrukh Khan pays tribute to yesteryear superstars

The superstar of today pays a tribute to megastars of yesteryears in the Yashraj film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi .

The Aditya Chopra -directed movie will feature a song where its leading man, Shahrukh Khan , pays homage to veteran stars like Raj Kapoor , Dev Anand , Shammi Kapoor, Rajesh Khanna and Rishi Kapoor .

According to production news, Aditya had recorded the song quite earlier. The track is 12-minutes long, sung by Sonu Nigam and composed by Salim and Suleiman.

In fact, the song will pay tribute to not just the male stars of years gone by, but also the divas of Indian Cinema like Nargis , Sharmila Tagore , Waheeda Rahman and others.

Aditya has reportedly finalized four Bollywood beauties to pay these tributes. First choice was Kajol , next to join were Preity Zinta , Priyanka Chopra and finally Aditya’s favourite Rani Mukherjee .

Yashraj Films haven’t officially declared anything, but admitted that these stars will play some part in the movie. Everything is under wraps now.

The song will be an extravagant one and is planned to be shot lavishly.

Imran Khan refuses Yashraj Banner!

Imraan Khan does not want to go the Hrithik Roshan way. Like Hrithik, Imraan had a great debut. But unlike Hrithik, Imraan does not want to sign on any film coming his way even if they are from big banners. Hrithik signed with reknowned banners like Subhash Ghai(Yaadein), Sooraj Barjatiya(Mein Prem Ki Diwani Hoon) and Kunal Kohli(Mujhse Dosti Karoge) and all of them bombed. And Inran certainly does not want to follow that route.

If sources are to be believed the actor has just turned down a subject offered to him by the Yashraj banner with the reason that he did not like the script. Imraan was approached by Aditya Chopra a few months before the release of his debut film Jaane Tu Yaa Jaane Naa with three story ideas. Imraan approved one of them which was then sent to the writers to be further scripted.

However just few weeks back a narration was given to him but the actor did not quite like it.

Imraan Khan who is eagerly awaiting the release of his second film when asked if Yashraj approached him with the project, said `` I don't think it is right to talk about projects that are not confirmed.''

When quizzed further if the project that was offered to him was not liked by him and apparently has said no to the film, Imraan said, `` I don't think it is right to talk about projects that are either in development or a project that did not happen. As it stands today I have no commitments after Delhi belly.''

So the big question is, has Imraan refused the Yashraj banner? Watch this space for more on this...

(Rajiv Dutta - India Target)

Nostalgic Shah Rukh – Kajol will sizzle in RNBDJ…!

e Kajol-Shah Rukh jodi hasn't been seen together since Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001). The industry's fav jodi are committed to Karan Johar's My Name Is Khan due 2009. However, the two will be seen together before that in Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

However, Kajol is not paired with SRK in RNBDJ, she's only doing a song. It was director Aditya Chopra's idea to rope in Kajol.

The song will be shot in Mumbai. And Kajol will appear in one of the verses of a song filmed on Shah Rukh and newcomer Anushka Sharma. The setting of the song will be a Punjabi folk event, and Kajol appears seconds before the song ends. A source says, "It will be very similar to her appearance in Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. All it took was a phone call from Adi for her to say yes."

Chopra's directorial debut Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge starred SRK and Kajol in lead roles, and he was looking forward to having them together in the same frame.

SRK and Kajol have a blazing chemistry on-screen, and it is exciting for the audiences to see them together even for a few seconds. Which explains her presence in SRK starrers Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna and Om Shanti Om. An insider reveals, "Kajol is sentimental about working with Adi and Shah Rukh in a project after DDLJ."

Recently, Rani was shooting in Amritsar when Shah Rukh was shooting for RNBDJ, giving rise to speculation that Adi would rope in his favourite actress too for his film. However, now it's confirmed that it's Kajol and not Rani who is making a brief appearance in the film.

Katrina & Shah Rukh Khan In A Yash Raj Film?

Katrina Kaif seems to be riding the crest of a bright new wave of success. The things have been happening to her career within just a matter of time, sometimes surrounding like a fairytale coming true.

She has given six blockbusters back to back in the recent times and as a result she has been signing some of the very best films.

The actress seems to have her kitty full of projects and directors and actors are just dying to work with her.

If the latest hearsay is something to go by then the actress has apparently bagged the lead role in a film which will be directed by the eternal romantic filmmaker of the Indian silver screen, Yash Chopra.

The celebrated director is going to make a comeback to movies after a long gap of four years. The film will have The Badshah, Shah Rukh Khan and The Megastar, Amitabh Bachchan leading the way. Can Kat ask for anything better?

Will Yash Chopra get Big B-SRK together again?

Yash Chopra is all set to direct a film again after his last movie “Veer Zaara” four years ago.

The industry buzz is that this time too Yash Chopra will be casting his two favourite actors, Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan.

According to sources, Yash Chopra’s new film will not be a remake of his classic “Kabhi Kabhie but instead he has finalised a new script for the film, which will be a romantic comedy with SRK and Big B.

However, the official spokesperson of Yash Raj Films has denied the news about the casting and said that Yashji is busy finalising the script of his film and has yet not finalised the cast.

Two different looks for Shahrukh Khan in 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'

Reports are that Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan will be seen carrying off two different looks one of a simpleton and other one of a hippie in the forthcoming romantic film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi .

After ‘Duplicate’, Don and the super hit Om Shanti Om , the twin bug has once again bit SRK as he will be seen playing two different avatars in Aditya Chopra 's much-awaited flick that is also the launch pad of Anushka Sharma .

‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ is a lighthearted romantic comedy for which SRK has chosen for himself the in-thing - a trendy spike cut.

Going by the looks, the new hairstyle seems out to have worked out fine as King Khan has never looked sexier and the new look is for sure going well with his ultra stylish image.

Bangalore based 19-year-old model, Anushka has been roped in under the Yashraj Films banner to play the lead opposite King Khan in the film shooting of which began in May and that marks the return to direction of Aditya after a gap of eight years.

After a long hunt for heroines, debutant Anushka was finalised to play the lead of a small town Punjabi girl by Yashraj Films, who are hoping to revive the magic of Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge with 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' that is scheduled for a December

(Apun ka choice)

SRK Takes New Girl Anushka For A Ride


The name ‘Raj’ got its importance only when Shah Rukh Khan used this name and stormed it back on all the teens across the globe with his blockbusters DDLJ, KKHH and Mohabattien.

Now, once again Raj (Shah Rukh) is ready to back fire and conquer all hearts and souls in his upcoming Yash Raj’s movie, ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’

Shooting in Amritsar, along with debutant Anushka Sharma, was Shah Rukh Khan.

The crowd went mad and started chanting and shouting his name when the dude took out his Suzuki Sports bike and gave Anushka a ride of her life, which any girl would die for.

Anushka was wearing a white and green salwar-suit which reminded us of Kajol. The two were looking no less than the DDLJ pair, the difference being that this time it was Amritsar and not Switzerland, a sports bike and not a sports car.

Even after crossing the age of 40, King Khan is still the Undisputed King of Bollywood. For people who say age matters with respect to acting, please contact Shah Rukh Khan.

(The Himalayan Times)




(images:Rediff)

Shahrukh at Amritsar for RNBDJ

TOI, 3 Sep

Shahrukh Khan's taste buds couldn't miss the tang of Amritsarikultchas even as he had arrived here with his own culinary experts , who serve him his choicest food. "Sharukh had to go out for shooting at 3 pm, but he got up only after 4 pm, after having kultchas for breakfast," said one of the staff of the hotel, where he is putting up.

On Tuesday morning, Khan clad in a white shirt and black trousers went to offer his prayers at the Golden Temple, where he interacted with his fans, and exchanged pleasantries with media persons but avoided talking about his new movie. "I am here to pray for my family, country and its peace," was all he said.

The king of Bollywood, Khan had arrived in the city on late Monday night for the shooting of his forthcoming movie, Rab Ne Banna Di Jodi, along with director Aditya Chopra and producer Yash Raj Chopra. Many dance troupes lined up in front of the hotel to give auditions . Raja, head of one of such troupe, said seven members of his group had shot at the temple and was hopeful that another 20 women artistes would get a similar chance to shoot with the star.

As the news of his arrival spread, Sharukh's fans arrived in hordes in front of the hotel to have a glimpse of their favourite celluloid hero in real life. There was an excitement as youngsters were seen waiting for the star to have his autograph. However , only a few lucky ones' wishes were granted as the star was escorted inside the hotel from the rear entry. Police have cordoned off the area.







(Picture courtsy :Rediff)

When Bips said no to a seducing scene




Bipasha Basu has done several bold scenes in her career so far.

So, it came as a big surprise when she was squeamish about doing an intimate Mrs Robinson-like seduction scene with Ranbir Kapoor in Yash Raj Films’ upcoming film Bachna Ae Haseeno , directed by Siddharth Anand. ( Watch )

Bipasha had to seduce Ranbir in a scene in the film, which is said to be loosely based on the Hollywood flick, The Graduate , directed by Mike Nichols (1967) and Alfie directed by Charles Shyer (2004).

While Anne Bancroft seduced Dustin Hoffman in The Graduate, Susan Sarandon seduced Jude Law in Alfi e. In Bachna Ae Haseeno , Bipasha plays Radhika, who has no apprehensions about anything and is ready go the extra mile for passion and Ranbir plays Raj, a Casanova.

Bipasha told Siddharth that she wouldnt like to enact the seduction scene. Siddharth tried to argue with Bipasha, she refused to relent. Ultimately, the scene was not shot. A source says, Bipasha wasnt told about the scene when she had signed the film.

When contacted, Siddharth said, There is no such scene in Bachna Ae Haseeno . Its a family film.” But, Bipasha said, Aha... Well, I dont wish to clarify or justify anything. If there is a story, which I would like to talk about, I will do so. But this is not one of those stories.

(TOI)

Image :Copyright © 2008 Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved.

Numbers on side of Shah Rukh Khan for next Yash Raj flick

Shah Rukh Khan’s last hit with Yash Raj may have been last year’s Chak De, but the production house has been experiencing a dry spell ever since with all its latest releases.But numerologists predict that things will turn around for Yash Raj with Shah Rukh Khan starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, later this year.

Yash Raj is recovering from the debacles of Tashan, Tara rum Pum, Thoda Pyar thoda Magic, Laaga Chunari..,etc so the numerologist predictions about Aditya Chopra’s next come like manna from heaven.

Numerologist Niraj Manchchanda says,” Rab Ne… will be the biggest hit of 2008. It comes to number 42 just like Dil To Pagal Hai did and that number vibrates with both Yash Chopra who is a number 9 and Aditya Chopra who is a number 3. The movie will do unheard of business and might even break records.”

Sweet words for King Khan and team Yash Raj who are longing for a hit!

(News line 365)

Katrina to go de-glam route!!!

Quite sometime back we had this piece of information for you that Bollywood's bombshell Katrina Kaif was being considered by KABUL EXPRESS fame director Kabir Khan for his next directorial venture opposite John Abraham.

Now the 'Gaddar' boy of JOHNNY GADDAR, Neil Nitin Mukesh has also been roped in for this project. Kabir made his directorial debut KABUL EXPRESS with YRF. And now once again he would be directing this yet to be titled project under YRF banner. Reports suggest that the movie would not belong to the mainstream cinema instead based on a very contemporary & relevant subject, a strong social issue. If everything goes accordingly than this would be one of the most challenging roles for Katrina to play. Kats baby has already given her nod for the film and she is ready to take on the challenge of going the de-glam route with this film.

It is heard that this YRF production is planned to go on floors coming October for a 2-month schedule in New York.

Meanwhile Katrina is busy promoting her upcoming mega release SINGH IS KINNG.

(Glamsham)

Aditya Chopra versus Kunal Kohli

After the Rani Mukerji and Saif Ali Khan starrer Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic failed to cast its spell on the box office, a lot of negativity has become apparent between the producer and director.

Reports of Kunal Kohli and Aditya Chopra having a showdown in the YRF office have ascertained that the duo is not getting along anymore. Moreover, despite hits such as Fanaa and Hum Tum, Kohli has allegedly been 'dumped' by Aditya Chopra and Saif as well .

As reported by Mumbai Mirror, Aditya Chopra is now refusing to pay the amount promised to Kohli earlier.

Says a source, "Recently Kunal was in Germany. After he returned to Mumbai he went to the YRF office, met Aditya Chopra and asked for his due payment. Since he co-produced TPTM with YRF, he was owed about 20 to 25 per cent of the profits. Aditya told him that TPTM had suffered heavy losses because of which he couldn't pay Kunal the amount he had been promised."

A heated argument allegedly followed suit but of course Kohli when contacted refused to divulge any details saying, "If Thoda Pyaar... has not made a profit how can Aditya pay me? We have not yet calculated anything. Will any company show you its balance sheet?"

When contacted, the YRF spokesperson denied the entire situation.

Sridevi says 'No' to Yash Chopra!

We know that Yash Chopra has made many other directors part of his production house Yash Raj Films but he himself has not yet called it a day. While people are speculating about who will star in Yash Chopra's next directorial venture after Veer Zaara, here is a story that tells you what Yash Chopra planned recently but failed to make it materialise.

Yash Chopra, who has made successful mature love stories like Kabhi Kabhie, Chandni, and Lamhe recently approached Amitabh Bachchan and Sridevi to play the lead actors in his next film. While Bachchan agreed immediately, Sridevi took some time to make up her mind.

Our source says, "After a few days, Yash and Sridevi's husband Boney Kapoor had a chat about this film. Boney told Yash that he too was keen to re-launch his wife Sridevi in his own production and it would be better if Yash cast some other actress instead."

That's when politician and Bachchan's good friend Amar Singh got into the act. Apparently, Bachchan was quite kicked about doing a Yash Chopra film with Sridevi. Our source adds, "Amar Singh tried to convince Boney to let Sridevi act in Yash's film. Boney still did not relent. He told Amar Singh that they are friends but he should let this one pass."

So why didn't Yash cast someone else instead of Sridevi? Our source reveals, "Anybody else apart from Sridevi would have not suited the role. Besides, Yash is a great filmmaker. If he thinks of a subject, he has the actor and actress in mind from day one. He did not make any compromises and put the project on the backburner when things did not work out with Sridevi."

When contacted, Boney confirmed that Yash had planned a film with Bachchan and Sridevi. He said, "However, I did not tell Yashji that I will be making Sridevi's comeback film."

We then asked about Amar Singh trying to convince him to let the project happen. After a slight pause Boney replied, "No, Amar Singh did not speak to me about this." When we probed further, saying that Bachchan and Amar Singh were quite enthusiastic that Yash's project should go on the floors with Amitabh and Sridevi in the lead, Boney said, "Amar Singh and Amitji must have been keen. But it didn't happen due to some other reason, which I am not aware of."


Amitabh and Sridevi had earlier starred together in Inquilab, Aakhri Raasta, and Khuda Gawah and all the three films did reasonably well. Sridevi's last film Judaai (1997) left the audience wanting for more but her comeback of sorts on the small screen as a goofy Tamilian wife in Mrs Malini Iyer strangely did not enjoy very high viewership. However, Boney does not rule out re-launching Sridevi on the big screen. He said, "Sridevi's comeback film has to have an extraordinary subject. It can't be a run of the mill story. However, right now, my hands are full with other projects."

(india target)

RNBDJ: Sukhwinder is Shah Rukh's voice again!

'Chaiyya Chaiyya', 'Kuch Kariye' and 'Dard-e-Disco'! So, why are we mentioning the hit numbers of King Khan, rendered by the matchless, Sukhwinder Singh? Well, there is a reason and a very good one too!

It is a well known fact that whenever Sukhwinder has lent his vocals for a song picturised on Shah Rukh Khan, it has turned out to be a blockbuster. Whether, it was the entertaining dance number atop a train, 'Chaiyya Chaiyya' (DIL SE) or the most recent 'Dard-e- Disco' (OM SHANTI OM), the Sukhwinder-SRK 'jodi' has always belted out chart-scorchers! And now the good news is that the same 'jodi' is back once again to enthrall us all and this time around the composers are the talented duo, Salim-Sulaiman. Yes, it is the same combination that gave us the (unofficial) National Sports anthem, 'Kuch Kariye' (CHAK DE! INDIA) which can be heard even now at almost every victory celebrations featuring Indian teams.

Well, Salim-Sulaiman has once again roped in Sukhwinder Singh to render two of their compositions, to be picturised on Shah Rukh Khan in Aditya Chopra's upcoming RAB NE BANA DI JODI. One hears that the songs were recorded recently and news is that they are both awesome tracks!

(Glamsham)

Madhuri Dixit in Yash Raj's next?

She maybe setting up home and hearth in America but Dhak Dhak girl Madhuri Dixit is still very much in demand. And the dancing diva is now gearing up for the Bachchan’s Unforgettable tour as she will be doing one of the surprise performances in the American leg of the show.

The failure of her come back movie Aaja Nachla has certainly disappointed Madhuri. Though she is not keen to do many films after Aaja Nachle there are many filmmakers who are still keen to sign her.

According to the latest buzz Chak De fame Shimit Amin has approached Madhuri to play the protagonist for his forthcoming film. Reportedly the movie is about a dancer. While Madhuri who is miffed with Yash raj for not promoting her film properly seems a bit reluctant to work with them again.

(TOI)

Yash Raj showcases music of Bachna Ae Haseeno

Yash Raj Films organized a music showcase of their upcoming film Bachna Ae Haseeno on 5 July at Yash Raj Studios for the media. The movie stars Ranbir Kapoor alongside Bipasha Basu, Minisha Lamba and Deepika Padukone.

Director Siddharth Anand and music directors Vishal and Shekhar gave a sneak peek of the songs and released the music. The album has a compilation of five songs along with the Kishore Kumar number Bachna Ae Haseeno, which is now supplemented with his own son Sumit Kumar and Vishal Dadlani's voice.

Bachna Ae Haseeno is a story of Ranbir's character that plays a part from age 18 to 30 years old and these three girls—Bipasha Basu, Minisha Lamba and Deepika Padukone—as a part of his life at different stages.

(BOC)

Will BACHNA AE HASEENO reverse Yash Raj's fortune?

The first half of 2008 is over and it is crystal clear that from amongst the bigger players it is Yash Raj Films which is the biggest loser. After Victor's safe-as-a-house Anil, Akshay, Saif and Kareena starrer, TASHAN, which fell like a pack of cards, the fate of their second venture, Kunal Kohli's Saif-Rani starrer, THODA PYAAR THODA MAGIC, also looks quite dicey, both in India and the Overseas.

However the wise men (popularly known as the box-office gurus!) feel that barring the animated ROADSIDE ROMEO, the revival of Yash Raj's fortune is round the corner. Their next venture, the August 15 release, BACHNA AE HASEENO, featuring Bipasha, Ranbir, Minissha and Deepika looks like a slick youthful entertainer. The director Siddharth Anand, who has already given YRF two decent successes in the form of SALAAM NAMASTEY and TA RA RUM PUM, looks in total control. Even Ranbir Kapoor looks great and like a worthy successor to his father's lover boy throne!

Well, an interesting clash is in the offing next month as BACHNA AE HASEENO takes on the Amitabh, Salman and Priyanka starrer, GOD TUSSI GREAT HO, on Independence day!

(Glamsham)

Has Kunal Kohli branched out of Yash Raj?

Now that the results of THODA PYAAR THODA MAGIC are out [the film has performed well at multiplexes over the weekend, after a slow start], are producers Aditya Chopra and Kunal Kohli regretting the decision of not selling the film to a corporate house that had offered an astronomical amount [62 cr?] for its global rights?

"It's true that we were offered a big amount, but I wouldn't like to reveal the exact figure. We refused the offer because Yash Raj wanted to distribute the film themselves. They've a strong distribution network, plus they have the music and Home Video departments as well. It was Adi’s call completely," Kunal informs me, "Adi has always taken the business decisions, while the creative call was mine in all the four films. It has always been that way."

Meanwhile, rumours are rife that Kunal isn't too happy with the way Yash Raj has promoted the film and has decided to join hands with a corporate entity for his new film. Translated into simple words, it means Kunal and Aditya have had a fallout. True? "There's no truth to it. Even if you meet them [corporates] casually, people tend to blow it out of proportion. It's assumed that you've inked the deal, which is far from true," he laughs. Point noted!

(Bollywood Hungama)

Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic Manages Decent Weekend

Thoda Pyaar Thoda magic managed to do 10.25 crore nett business over the weekend. Business in multiplexes of big cities was fairly good but single screens in B and C centres were poor.

Monday saw a drop in collections to around 30-35% (Sunday hit 85% at places) at multiplexes and the weekdays do not look like giving good collections. The first week business should be in the 16 crore region. The second weekend will decide the fate of the film.

Overseas : Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic opened poorly with 1.10 crore in UK, 75 lakhs in North America and 1 crore in the rest of the world. The 3 day overseas total is 2.85 crore.

(Box Office India)

Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic Could Emerge Surprise Success

Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic opened to poor response of 35-40%. There were single screens at around 20-25% but some multiplexes were 50% and this was not great but better than many had expected as the film has come with virtually no publicity and music has not done well.

It had seemed that the film would go unnoticed prior to release but that has not happened. The collections for the early shows today have improved with 60%+ at multiplexes though single screens are same as yesterday.


The reports are fair and it looks like the film may actually succeed where the more hyped films like Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, Laaga Chunari Mein Daag, Aaja Nachley and Tashan have failed for Yash Raj Films. Although universal success will be difficult due to very poor start at single screens the film may emerge an earner on the strength of multiplexes especially in the bigger cities. It is quite likely that multiplexes will hit 75% today and tomorrow should be 90% and decent follow through on Monday will mean the film will sustain and success for Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic. The makers have also cleverly kept release costs low as they probably knew the initial response was going to be lukewarm. Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic has had a fairly small release for a 20 crore film as multiplexes are giving it 6-8 shows and the all India release is around 600 prints going to 525+ cinemas.

(Box office india)

Few takers for Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic

Audiences are no longer queuing up for movies from the Yash Raj Films banner. Its last film Tashan sank without a trace and advance booking for the Rani Mukerji-Saif Ali Khan starrer Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic that releases this Friday is slow.

But experts say that all might not be lost. The presence of the two stars might turn it into a surprise hit. Co-produced and directed by Kunal Kohli, who earlier made the hit Hum Tum, Thoda Pyaar... is a comparatively low budget film.

Compared to its earlier films like Jhoom Barabar Jhoom and even Tashan that had budgets of Rs 300 million and more, Thoda Pyaar... has been made on just Rs.200 million and is being released with about 800 prints worldwide.

Despite the general despondency with several films flopping at the box office, traders are hoping that Thoda Pyaar... will work some magic.

"The film has not been extraordinarily hyped. But since there are stars like Saif and Rani in it, the response might be positive. It is a big banner film. Besides, it also has an angle of children in it, so it might do good business," said Surinder, a Delhi-based distributor.

Fun Cinemas, a popular multiplex theatre, is hoping that the film breaks the dry spell.

"June has been a bad month in terms of hits. There has been a complete lull. So I hope Thoda Pyaar... does well. The advance booking is almost 20 to 25 percent till now, so I feel the film will have a slow start like Chak De! India! and will grow on word-of-mouth publicity gradually," said Bhumika Tewari, assistant vice president Fun Cinemas Programming.

Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic revolves around the lives of four children forced to live with a man (Saif) they hate. Then a nanny (Rani) comes to their rescue.

Industry experts say that the film has failed to create the sort of hype that was created when Yash Raj Films' last offering Tashan was due for release.

"Even though Tashan did not do well at the box office, it did well from the distribution aspect since there was a lot of hype for it," added Surinder.

Matloof, who distributes films in Meerut, is not happy with the distribution. He added: "I think the film would only release in multiplexes."

On the flipside, Kohli, who has also written the film, says that he has been promoting the film extensively.

"I've been promoting the film a lot. I've been going for press meets and media talks. I have also been visiting different cities for the promotion and giving interviews for features," said Kohli.

Unlike other films Thoda Pyaar... has not taken part in any merchandising gimmicks as a part of the promotion campaign. The director first wants to wait for the box-office results to go further.

"We have no merchandise as of now. First, lets see how the film does and may be then we'll think about creating some merchandise," he added.

Regarding the profits, Kohli maintained: "I'm in the business of cinema and am not that good with figures. I do want big business but before that I want the film to touch the hearts of people."

How the title 'Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic' was finalized!

A lot of brainstorming went into deciding the title of Kunal Kohli’s latest film Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic .

In all of his previous films like Hum Tum and Fanaa , Kunal had zeroed down on the title before even beginning to shoot the film. But TPTM did not have the title even after the film was completely shot.

Clock began ticking on the director when Yashraj Films decided to screen the promos of the film with their April release Tashan .

Kunal asked the film’s crew, technicians, even actors, to think of a suitable title. Not just this, he also offered a lucrative prize – a Mac Book pro computer – for anyone who comes up with the right title.

So how was the title finalized?

There is a dialogue by Rishi Kapoor in the film. It says: 'Hum sab ki zindagi mein thodi pyaas honi chahiye, usey mitane ke liye humein chahiye thodi si madat, thoda sa pyaar, thoda sa magic'.

While working on the film’s promos, Kunal noticed that the publicity designer used the last words “thoda sa pyaar, thoda sa magic” as the punchline.

There, in an instant, Kunal Kohli got the title of his film – ‘Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic’.

The director thinks it is a very apt title because it not just suits the film’s theme but also is applicable to our lives.

The movie, starring Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukherjee in lead roles, is set to hit the theatres on Friday. Amisha Patel has a guest appearance.

(apunkachoice)

Yash Chopra gets top French honour

Bollywood filmmaker Yash Chopra has been conferred with the 'Officier de la Legion d'Honneur', the highest French distinction, for his contribution to the Indian cinema.

The 'King of romance', whose films have also been released in French cinema halls will be decorated in a special ceremony at the French Embassy in the national capital on July 5.

With nearly 50 year old association with Bollywood, Yash Chopra would join the likes of late Satyajit Ray, Lata Mangeshkar and Amitabh Bachchan among other Indian film personalities to be honoured by the French government with the Officer of the National Order of the Legion of Honour.

"France has a tradition of supporting artists from all over the world. Bestowing the insignia of the Legion of Honour on Mr Chopra, is a recognition of his international artistic career, and his notable efforts in the promotion of cultural exchanges and Indian cinema in the world," said Jerome Bonnafont, Ambassador of France to India.

Bonnafont would confer the award to Yash Chopra at the French Embassy here during an official ceremony.

Chopra , known for making romantic movies has delivered hits like 'Deewar' 'Kabhi Kabhi,' 'Darr,' 'Chandni' and 'Silsila.' He has so far been associated with around 40 films.

Siddharth on nostalgia trip with ‘Bachna Ae Haseeno’ title song

By Subhash K. Jha

Director Siddharth Anand is shooting a promotional video for his film “Bachna Ae Haseeno” with Ranbir Kapoor and likens it to reliving a melodious past. The title of Siddharth’s film is taken from the 1980s chartbuster from the film “Hum Kissi Se Kam Nahin” and retains the original song’s opening.

“We have used the song from ‘Hum Kissi Se Kam Nahin’ by Kishore Kumar at the beginning of the track. Then we got Kishore and Leena Chandavarkarji’s son Sumeet to sing the rest of the song as an original composition. So it’d be quite an emotional and nostalgic trip. Kishoreda’s son sings for Chintuji’s son,” Siddharth told IANS.

Siddharth said that the rest of the track has been completely re-worked by Vishal-Shekhar.

“It’s not a remix at all. The track takes off from the original in a totally different tangent. We had taken a conscious decision not to use the song unless it turned out as special as we wanted it to be. We are really proud of the outcome,” added the director of the hit romantic comedy “Salaam Namastey”.

And yes, for nostalgia’s sake, yesteryears dancing star Rishi Kapoor may team up with his son Ranbir to shake a leg “though I’m too scared to ask him (Rishi) as yet,” laughed Siddharth.

Producer Yash Raj Films is going the extra mile to promote this romantic comedy.

“The only time Yash Raj has done separate music videos for their films is for ‘Dhoom’. It’s the project that determines the promotion. I think we had a great title song and it was waiting to be used as a music video,” said Siddharth.

Siddharth will shoot it with choreographer Ahmed Khan.

“All of us - Ranbir, Bipasha Basu, Minissha Lamba, Deepika Padukone and Ahmed - are getting completely engrossed in shooting the video.”

Interestingly, Ranbir tried to sing his father’s song but gave up the idea.

“We did try Ranbir’s own voice for the track. He does have a great singing voice. But we were in a hurry and we didn’t want to make it overly gimmicky. I think I’ll keep Ranbir’s singing for posterity.

“I’m actually really nervous about ‘Bachna Ae Haseeno’. Everyone talks about his film being different. So I’m hesitant to use that word. Like ‘Salaam Namastey’, ‘Bachna Ae Haseenon’ is a true blue romantic comedy. But I’m confident. Ranbir is exceptionally talented.”

How well do you know Yash Raj Films?

click here for Quiz. Do tell us your Score

Rani: Branded?




The insinuation that Rani Mukerji is a resident Yash Raj heroine has the talented actress fuming.

A source close to Rani says it takes the actress all her willpower to stop herself from bursting a blood vessel when she referred to as the ghar ki heroine of Yash Raj.

What do people mean by this ?asks a source very close to Rani. Agreed Rani has done comparatively more films with the Yash Raj banner. But thats because any heroine in Bollywood would be foolish to turn down an author-backed, heroine-centric part like the one in Laga Chunri Mein Daag .

Continues the source, In fact, Rani makes it a point to remind people that lately she did Karan Johar's Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna , Ravi Chopra's Babul and Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saawariya . None of these is a Yash Raj film.

Rani on her marriage that didn’t happen

Bollywood actress Rani Mukherjee says she initially thought her marriage rumours with Aditya Chopra were funny, but was later disturbed by the same as people in London started congratulating her for the wedding, which had not even occurred!

The dusky beauty was speaking to a channel before the release of her latest flick Thoda Pyaar, Thoda Magic. “This was a media rumour. It was funny to begin with. Then it got weird and finally scary,” she said.

The actress was apparently shooting the wedding scene of Konkana Sen for the movie Laaga Chunri Mein Daag (a Yash Raj production) when the rumour mills started churning out Rani’s wedding story.

“Getting married is great but rumours about it are harmful,” said the Bong beauty, adding that it had lead some Londoners to congratulate her for a blissful married life!

But is she really going around and has marriage on mind in the near fututre?

“I am not even into a relationship, let alone getting married,” Rani quells the rumour. Point taken.


(Zee News)

Can magic reverse Yash Raj Films’ fortunes?

From a production house that could do no wrong to a banner that is in desperate need of a hit, Hindi film industry’s most consistently performing entertainment conglomerate Yash Raj Films is going through a bad patch, to say the least. As Yash Raj Films readies to unveil its second release of the year 2008 - “Thoda Pyaar, Thoda Magic” - after the box-office debacle of its first offering “Tashan”, the stakes cannot be any higher.

“Thoda Pyaar, Thoda Magic” that once again brings together Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji on the silver screen will be an acid test for veteran Yash Chopra and his son Aditya, who helms this film along with producer-director Kunal Kohli.

A Yash Raj loyalist, Rani essays the role of an angel sent to earth to unite four orphan children with their legally-appointed guardian played by Saif. The film is conspicuously similar to Hollywood blockbuster “Mary Poppins”.

But Kunal has gone on record to say that it is not a rehash of “Mary Poppins”. The director, however, did admit that it is not an absolute original and stated that it is inspired by Shekhar Kapur’s hit film “Mr India”, which was inspired by “Mary Poppins”.

While YRF productions are usually associated with great music but the few tracks of the film that have been released so far are not so impressive.

Given that the corporation has got more thumbs down than ups over the last two years, the film’s box-office performance will be a deciding factor for the course ahead.

The banner has committed to pump in Rs.3.5 billion into filmmaking over the next year. Though this is not big money when compared to the moolahs that corporate houses like Reliance Entertainment and Indian Films are pumping in, Yash Raj still commands undying loyalty of A-list stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan.

But the flops have been piling up and with their latest release, “Tashan”, not living up to the hype, the banner’s supremacy has been severely undermined.

Most damagingly, the promotion and distribution strategy of the film which starred formidable crowd puller Akshay Kumar and Saif and Kareena Kapoor has come under criticism.

For a production house that is known to have its finger on the pulse of the nation, it is getting more and more difficult to gauge what audiences want.

Perhaps that is why the company is now spreading itself out. They recently announced its multi million dollar joint venture contract with Dubai Infinity Holdings. The partnership will bring Yash Raj Films to Dubai and will build a large scale entertainment district dedicated to the film brand.

The Yash Raj Films Entertainment District will comprise of theme park, a movie palace, unique hotel concepts and many other unique Indian genre entertainment concepts. All the components of the Yash Raj District will be themed around the Yash Raj banner.

There will of course be a lot to tell. Yash Chopra had set up this banner in 1979 after breaking away from his brother’s production company B.R. Films. He scaled unheard of heights with films like “Daag”, “Deewar”, “Trishul”, “Vijay”, “Mashaal”, “Chandni” and “Darr”.

His son Aditya kept the flag flying high after debuting with “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge”. Starring Shah Rukh and Kajol, it was one of Bollywood’s most complete entertainers.

But over the last 10 years, while commercial success has come in fits and starts for Yash Raj Films, it is hard to pick one exceptionally good cinematic offering which is unforgettable.

Films like “Hum Tum”, “Veer Zaara”, “Dhoom”, “Bunty Aur Babli”, “Fanaa” and others are wholesome entertainers, but would not make for memorable cinema.

Somewhere around 2005 onwards, the banner has been floundering. “Neal ‘n’ Nikki”, “Kabul Express”, “Ta Ra Rum Pum”, “Jhoom Barabar Jhoom”, “Laaga Chunari Mein Daag” “Aja Nachle” and this year’s “Tashan” have eroded the banner’s brand equity.

Though the promos of “Chak De! India” were pulled out of theatres because Yash Raj Films felt that there was no point in promoting a sports-based film, it surprised all and sundry by becoming a blockbuster. In fact, this Shah Rukh starrer was the only saving grace for the banner last year.

Half way into year 2008, the banner is pegging its hopes on “Thoda Pyaar, Thoda Magic” to turn things around.

Their next release will be “Bachna Ae Haseeno” starring newcomer Ranbir Kapoor in a film that once again sounds disappointingly predictable. The banner will also enter animation with “Roadside Romeo”, for which they have a tie-up with Disney.

Before the year rings out, Yash Raj will play its one last trump card, which is Shah Rukh romancing a pretty young starlet in “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi”. Wonder why it already feels like a yawn.

Amisha dares to bare!


Amisha Patel is poised to set the silver screen on fire with her sizzling act in the upcoming Yash Raj production film Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic.




The glamorous actress, who is paired opposite actor Saif Ali Khan in a scorching item number Lazy Lamhe admits it is really a hot number.

"Well, whether I am looking sexy or not, you have to watch the film, but yes for the first time I am wearing clothes that I never wore before," says the sultry actress, who made her acting debut with the blockbuster Kaho Na Pyar Hai in 2000.

"This song is really hot and will be the turning point of the film. You will see much more of me. My character Mallaika is different, but entertaining in this movie," she says.

Amisha, who has stayed away from the big screen for quite sometime, will be seen together with Rani Mukherji and Saif Ali Khan. This film would also be the first time that Amisha and Saif Ali Khan would be seen together on-screen.

The beautiful actress also declined that she is following the 'dare bare' trend set by other actresses like Soha Ali Khan who posed for a magazine shoot or Kareena Kapoor who was seen in a sexy bikini avatar in Yash Raj's recently released Tashan.

"No, it has no connection with all those dare bare trend going on in Bollywood," she clarifies adding that 'It was the demand of the character.

The actress claimed that her character in the movie has a different body language and mannerism and it will certainly create an impact among cine lovers.

'It is one of the very different character I am enacting as I had to learn certain acts of mannerisms,' says Amisha.

The actress, who has won the best female debut at the 2000 Zee Cine awards for Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai and the Filmfare Special Performance award for Gadar: Ek Prem Katha in 2001 has not been seen since her last movie Bhool Bhulaiyaa in October last year where she was cast opposite Akshay Kumar.


This is Kunal Kohli's fourth directorial venture after Mujhse Dosti Karega, Hum Tum and Fanaa , and the actress is all upbeat about its success. 'It will definitely click with cine lovers,' she says.



(rediff)

Rani gains weight after Thoda Pyaar...

All those who felt that Rani Mukerji looked fat on the special episode of Kya Aap Paanchvi Paas Se Tez Hain where she was featured with director Karan Johar, don't blame your eyes. She has actually gained a few kilos.

While shooting with the four kids in her forthcoming film Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, Rani says the atmosphere became very childlike.

"There used to be a lot of goodies to eat on the sets and you can see a bit showing on me too," said the actress.

"I have put on three kg and the credit goes to Kunal (Kohli). He used to keep telling me that he wanted me to look chubby for the film," she added.

In the film, Rani plays an angel to four children who are forced to stay with a man they hate played by Saif Ali Khan.

Song of the superstars

Aditya Chopra is leaving no stones unturned to make his ambitious film, Shah Rukh Khan starrer- Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi- a grand success. He has recorded an 11-minute song for the film which will have Sonu Nigam paying tribute to five different generations of yesteryear stars. The song tracks the journey from 1950s to the 90’s and to the present era and will be picturised on Shah Rukh Khan. The song will be a tribute that SRK gives to the stalwarts like Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, Shammi Kapoor, Rajesh Khanna and Rishi Kapoor. Music composers Salim Suleiman and Jaideep Saini were asked to compose the song.

Yash Raj to create Entertainment District in Dubai


Yash Raj Films has entered into an agreement with Dubai Infinity Holdings, the innovative and empowering investments enterprise of Dubai. The partnership signed by Yash Chopra and Samira Abdulrazzak, CEO, Dubai Infinity Holding is to build a large-scale entertainment district dedicated to the film brand.

The Yash Raj Films Entertainment District will comprise of theme park attractions, a movie palace, unique hotels and many other unique Indian genre entertainment concepts. All the components of the YRF District will be themed around the YRF banner. The first phase of the YRF Entertainment District is scheduled to be completed by 2012.

Adi-Rani’s 'rock-ing' pyaar?

It seems that the Aditya Chopra-Rani Mukherji romance is in full bloom. If sources are to be believed, the reticent Adi is all out to woo his ladylove. Apparently, he has just bought a 10 carat diamond ring for Rani. And there are multiple reasons behind this gesture.

A well-placed source says, “Rani has always been loyal to Yash Raj Films. She agrees to star in most of their projects without any starry airs. Moreover, despite her reigning status, she chose to limit herself mostly to the Yash Raj banner. Also, despite her recent films with the banner (Laaga Chunari Mein Daag, Ta Ra Rum Pum) not doing too well, Rani trusts Aditya’s instincts completely.”

Incidentally, Aditya’s directorial venture Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi does not feature Rani as the storyline does not have a role for her.

“Aditya is planning another sports-based movie on cricket where she might play the role of a captain. Aditya who is very media shy prefers his work to do the talking. Rani has opted to do the same,” says the source. He adds, “Of late, she has become a recluse. She chose not to talk to the media even when her brother’s show was being launched.”

The source reveals further, “Aditya is happy that Rani agreed to be a part of Yash Raj’s Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, despite having differences with Saif Ali Khan. Director Kunal Kohli wanted to repeat the Hum Tum jodi, which had crackling chemistry. It was only Aditya who could convince Rani to agree to co-star opposite the Khan. Aditya being overwhelmed by her support bought this expensive ring as a token of affection and gratitude,” the source ends.
m_ranjib@dnaindia.net

(DNA)

Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic´ : Lots Of Poetry And Lots Of Music

There’s a lot expectations from the Music of Yash Raj Films and Kunal Kohli productions’ Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, and the expectations are not without reason. In the last 3 years the highest selling album has been ‘Fanaa’ - ‘Chand Sifarish’ and ‘Mere Haath Mein’ were blockbuster hits that are still popular even today. Before that in ‘Hum Tum’ too Kunal Kohli gave us super hit music with ‘Ladki Kyon’, ‘Saanson ko Saanson Mein’ and ‘Mere Dil Vich’. Now after the super success of ‘Hum Tum’ and ‘Fanaa’ the hit musical team of Kunal Kohli-Prasoon Joshi, this time teams up with Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy to being to you the music of ‘Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic’.

In the immitable style of Prasoon Joshi are the lyrics of the film that touch your heart, tag at your emotions, bring a smile to your face, and the sheer poetry just brings out a ‘wah’.

Shankar Ehsaan Loy have given a range of different melodies in this album, that has something for every kind of listener. Whether its, love, fun, naach, sexy, entertaining it’s all there in ‘Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic’.

The album opens with 'Pyaar Ke Liye', sung by Shankar Mahadevan, which sums up the mood and spirit of the film. Evocative lyrics by Prasoon Joshi provide the base for a contemplative yet uplifting romantic song that is given an extra zest by a superb background chorus of voices and a strong guitar line that is weaved in at places throughout the song.

The next track Nihaal Ho Gayi combines eastern and western beats like only perhaps Shankar Ehsaan Loy can. Alternating and combining jazzy guitar chords at the start with qawwali infused vocalization, percussions and handclaps and sometimes carried along mainly by the soulfulness of Shankar’s voice, 'Nihaal Ho Gayi' is a mélange of musical influences that truly works like magic.

'Lazy Lamhe', which comes up next, would not be out of place in a night club in New York or Barcelona, not to mention Mumbai, Delhi or Ludhiana. The opening hook is one of the most insanely catchy ones heard in recent times and Anusha Mani does full justice in conveying the lazy sensuousness of the song picturised on Ameesha Patel. The DJ Aqeel remix of the song, which closes the album, adds on some more thumping electronic beats and riffs and draws out the vocals in places, making sure that the already catchy song becomes an irresistible dance floor hit.

'Lazy Lamhe' is followed on the album by 'Bulbula', picturised on Rani Mukerji, and voiced by Sunidhi Chauhan and Shankar Mahadevan. It describes Rani’s character in the film, and like her, is fresh and vibrant. One of Shankar Ehsaan Loy’s trademarks – superb harmonies – are used to fantastic effect in this peppy song which, incidentally, is one of the first songs in Hindi film history to be completely shot with eye popping visual effects and graphics. Shreya Ghosal and Sneha Suresh, helped by a background of children’s voice, proclaims the confident and assertive spirit of the new India even while proclaiming its determination to not forget the lessons of the past. It’s a new spin on the patriotic song, inspirational yet trendy and catchy. Visually too the song is a landmark, as it touches on important moments in India’s history, going back and forth in time. 'Beetey Kal Se', is more than a patriotic song, its more than an educative song, it’s a social comment on where we are today and where we’re going tomorrow.

The album is brought to a close by the DJ Aqeel remixes of 'Nihaal Ho Gayi' and 'Lazy Lamhe' that are sure to be playing in car stereos and discos throughout the summer this year. If you want music that both engages the mind and touches the heart, and makes summer a lot more pleasurable, you need to listen to the soundtrack of 'Thoda Pyaar, Thoda Magic'. And when you do, you will know its one album that delivers a lot of Pyaar and a lot of magic!

'Thoda Pyaar, Thoda Magic' is co-produced by Yash Raj Films and Kunal Kohli, directed by Kunal Kohli, Music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy, Lyrics by Prasoon Joshi and stars Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji and the music has been released on YRF Music.

(Couretsy : Yash Raj Films)

Shah Rukh Khan to sport a spiky look in 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'

After flaunting his long silky hair in Om Shanti Om to sporting a ponytail for Krazzy 4 , Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has chosen for himself the in-thing - a trendy spike cut.

The first movie in which SRK is going to appear with his spiky hair cut would be Aditya Chopra ’s next flick Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi .

SRK’s hair stylist Dilshad seems happy with his work and speaking to a newspaper said, “When I started out I had a different look for him in my mind but when I finished I felt amazed and as he looked stunning and trendy."

Going by the looks, the new hairstyle seems out to have worked out fine as King Khan has never looked sexier and the new look is for sure going well with his ultra stylish image.

All those of you who thought that Aamir Khan is the only actor who loves to experiment with his look would now have one more Khan to watch out for.

Bangalore based 19-year-old model, Anushka Sharma has been roped in under the Yashraj Films banner to play the lead opposite King Khan in 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, whose shooting began with SRK and Anushka joining the first day of the shoot last weekend with Aditya, who is returning to film direction after a gap of eight years with this film that is scheduled for a December release.

After a long hunt for heroines, debutant Anushka was finalised to play the lead of a small town Punjabi girl by Yashraj Films, who are hoping to revive the magic of Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge with 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'.

The film, a love story, is rumoured to be a desi version of Hollywood's classic romantic film 'My Fair Lady'.

(Apun ka Choice)

Revised promotional strategy for YRF's next?

Would Yash Raj Films be having a re-look at the promotional strategy of their next release THODA PYAAR THODA MAGIC?

That's a question looming large in industry circles which is still shell shocked by the failure of country's biggest production house's latest release TASHAN. Yash Raj Films has traditionally believed in a low profile promotional campaigns for each of their films, whether it is big or small. Whether it is TASHAN or LAAGA CHUNARI MEIN DAAG or CHAK DE! INDIA or AAJA NACHLE, they have always allowed the audience to explore their films rather than handing them everything on a platter even before the film's release.

Though in majority of recent cases this hasn't worked (in any case they were badly made movies), in a one off instance - CHAK DE! INDIA - this worked in a big way. Point to be noted here is that the film was also the best of the lot served by Yash Raj Films in the years gone by. The Shah Rukh Khan starrer had taken a shockingly low opening but held its ground as Friday came to a close and only found its way up in the popularity charts with every passing show.

Now with THODA PYAAR THODA MAGIC coming up, one wonders what kind of campaign is the production house targeting at. Will they be following the same approach as that of movies gone by where a low key promotion would be followed by audience giving their final verdict? Or would they be following the same approach as that of majority of other big production houses which publicize their films to such a huge extent that audience is left with no other option but to rush to their nearest multiplex / theatre and catch the film; most recent example being RACE?

Monica Bhattacharya, spokesperson of Yash Raj Films, however chose to downplay the entire promotional campaign re-look talk. She said, "It is too early to be commenting upon the promotional campaign strategy for THODA PYAAR THODA MAGIC. The film is still a little away."

THODA PYAAR THODA MAGIC marks the return of Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukherjee as a pair for the third time after HUM TUM and TA RA RUM PUM. Incidentally both these films were also productions of Yash Raj Films.

(Glamsham)

Contract for Yash Raj heroines

A contract that details not just financial details but also clothes and specified weight at the time of shoot is what makes a Yash Raj contract different from any other.

Yash Raj’s unique deals with heroines and not the latter’s obsession for anorexic bodies may well be the reason behind Bebo’s zero-size figure and Ash’s ultra-toned down look at 54 kilos.

The brand ‘Yash Raj’ strikes a romantic chord in every Bollywood lover’s heart. Those breath-taking snowy locations, grand sets, hi-stylized characters and ultra-sensuous heroines wrapped in pastels are what make their films a class apart. But as the super-hero Spiderman says, ‘With power comes responsibilities’ and so, in order that there’s no compromising for its patrons when it comes to the ‘glam’ quotient in its their movies, Yash Raj has been signing detailed contracts with each of its heroines.

Now while this is becoming the norm in B-town as it attains a ‘global’ and subsequently more professional avatar, Yash Raj deals with its heroines in a manner that’s one step ahead of all production houses in Bollywood.

Apparently, since every Yash Raj flick has atleast that one ‘sizzling’ scene where the actresses are expected to oblige the director by getting under those satin sheets, swim suits or just about anything that would allow for a low neckline, there’s a high chance of last-minute costume shockers that might leave our A-grade actresses in a sour taste and the audiences high and dry.

But the smart businessmen that the veterans of Yash Raj are, they have managed to keep all hassles at bay by including a sketch of the actress’s outfit in the film’s contract. Not just that, but the ‘deal’ also mentions the mandatory weight for the actresses during the time of shoot. And if you think we are exaggerating, here’s letting you on a li’l inside story.

Our very tall and slender Aishwarya Rai who has never really had weight issues ever, found her ‘Dhoom 2’ contract reading ‘required weight at the time of shoot: 54 kgs’. So while that ultra-toned look that may have appeared ‘pale’ to some of her fans and Bebo’s new zero-size figure in ‘Tashan’ may not appeal to most, it’s high-time we stop blaming our lovely ladies for doing away with all that flesh in the right places. After all, Yash Raj – the King of Romance – reigns supreme when it comes to calling the shots in Bollywood.

Anushka Pic




(TOI)

‘My movie is not a copy’ - Kunal Kohli

Kunal Kohli claims that his next film is not a remake of a Mary Poppins even though the story sounds similar, reports Prithwish Ganguly

Kunal Kohli’s Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, which releases on June 27, is under the scanner for various reasons.

It all started after his announcement of the title of the Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji starrer which sounded similar to that of actor-turned-producer Sahil Chadha’s Thodi Life Thoda Magic. Sahil claimed that the he had registered the title way back in 2006.

Now, Kunal has bigger worries as speculations are rife that by the look of the plot of the film, it seems to be a carbon copy of the 1964 Hollywood film Mary Poppins.
However, Kunal, who has previously directed films like Hum Tum and Fanaa is not on the defense.

“I think it is very premature for anyone to say that my film is a copy of Mary Poppins,” he said.

He goes on the front foot and challenges that the movie is entirely different from the Hollywood blockbuster.

“I advice people to see my film first and then draw conclusions. I’m telling you openly that my film is not a remake of Mary Poppins. It is an entirely different movie and has nothing to do with the English film,” Kunal said.

In the Hollywood film, a magic nanny (Mary Poppins) comes into the life of a banker and bails him and his family out of trouble. On the other hand, interestingly, Kunal Kohli’s film has Saif playing a rich man with four orphans and Rani plays an angel who comes in their lives to save the day. Sounds similar doesn’t it?

“Just wait for the film to release. You will understand,” says Kunal.

Directed by Robert Stevenson, Mary Poppins is a fantasy musical that cast Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke and David Tomlinson in the lead. Mary Poppins is originally a series of children’s books written by PL Travers and illustrated by Mary Shepard which was made into a movie.

Ok. The title of your film also came under a lot of scrutiny.

“There was no complication or anything. We have a process of applying for the title in our country and can acquire it only when the proposed title is cleared by the body. We followed the same route and things are fine,” he said.

By the way, Sahil Chadha’s Thodi Life Thoda Magic is a feel good film about a man who tries to do good deeds and believes in spreading magic in the lives of others. Jackie Shroff plays the protagonist in the film.


(DNA)

Rab Ne Bana Di Shahrukh-Anushka’s jodi

Getting an opportunity to work with King Khan in the first film is an achievement of a lifetime. It’s a dream come true for any debutantes. Many established actors yearn to work with him but fail to get the chance. Luckiest of the lucky person only gets the golden opportunity to work with King Khan in their first break and one among them is the 19 years old Anushka Sharma who will play Shahrukh’s lady love in Rab De Bana De jodi.


Anushka is a model and hailed from Bangalore. She caught everyone’s sight during the last fashion week where she was chosen for the Wendell Roderick’s finale. Ever since, she has been flooded with endorsements. She will play a small town Punjabi girl in one of the biggest release of 2009. For quite sometime, Yashraj has been hunting for a fresh, new face to be paired opposite SRK and ultimately their search ended with Anushka. They feel she is the perfect girl for Shahrukh.


Though Anushka does not have any previous acting experience, Yashraj is sure that she will shine bright opposite the Baadshah. Many names like Sonam Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Kajol were suggested for the role. Sonam was even signed for the role but something did not work out and ultimately the golden break fell in Anushka’s lap.

(bollywood mantra)

Tashan Opens To Below Average Response in overseas

Tashan is not upto the mark in the international markets. It has done poor business in North America and below average in other markets. The first three days business was 1.50 crore in UK, 1.25 crore in North America and the rest of the world added another 1.75 crore taking its total to 4.50 crore. Overall Tashan is well below expectations and is likely to do around 8-9 crores from overseas markets.

(Box office India)

Tashan Struggles At The Box Office

Tashan managed to do nett gross business of 7.75 crore in its first two days. At this rate even a 20 crore opening nett total is looking a tough ask. The business over the first two days was around 70-80%.

Tashan's no show at the biggest multiplex chains like PVR, Fun, Cinemax, Inox, Fame and Adlabs has hit the film hard. There was hope that by Saturday it would be in the multiplexes like most of the other films that had similar problems but it was not to be and still the problem has not been sorted out.


Tashan needs the multiplex release to save it self being a losing fare, if the multiplexes and producers can sort out the problem and Tashan can get in the multiplexes from Friday it will show steady second week business if it does not happen then the expected blockbuster will actually emerge a flop.

The multiplex problem has hit business hard in Mumbai, Delhi-NCR and Bengal circuits with these circuits losing more than 50% business, other circuits have lost about 20-30%.

(Box office India)

Tashan Review Links

http://www.indya.com/news/newsDetails.aspx?xfile=2008/April/News_20080425_271
http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=8032
http://www.movietalkies.com/movies/editor-reviews.asp?MovieId=19131
http://www.rediff.com/movies/2008/apr/25tashan2.htmhttp://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/review/10094.htmlhttp://www.moviewalah.com/reviewhttp://www.allbollywood.com/v2/bd/stc/rev/t/170.shtmlhttp://www.planetbollywood.com/displayReview.php?id=f042608121626
http://www.buzz18.com/reviews/movies/review-tashan-is-such-a-torture/52781/0
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/moviereview/2983109.cmshttp://www.nowrunning.com/Movie/Reviews/MovieReview.aspx?movie=4660&rid=1601
http://www.rediff.com/movies/2008/apr/25tashan1.htmhttp://www.ndtvmovies.com/reviews.asplang=hindi&id=304&moviename=Review3A+Tashan
http://www.timesnow.tv/NewsDtls.aspx?NewsID=7657
http://www.apunkachoice.com/scoop/bollywood/20080425-4.html
http://www.radiosargam.com/films/archives/5187/movie-review-tashan-2008.html
http://boxofficeindia.com/reviews.php?page=shownews&articleid=203&nCat=movie_reviews&PHPSESSID=724f1eb714739292712eb72e3c4b48e3
http://www.magnamags.com/magnamags/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1628&templateName=stardust
http://www.fullhyderabad.com/profile/movies/2211/2/http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?newsid=1161421
http://www.mumbaimirror.com/net/mmpaper.aspx?page=article&sectid=30&contentid=2008042620080426020632690317e5da2
http://www.deccanherald.com/Content/Apr262008/movies2008042564651.asphttp://www.musicnmovies.info/index.php/2008/04/picture-gallery/tashan-2008-movie-review-idiocracy-has-new-name/
http://www.indicine.com/movies/bollywood/tashan-movie-review/
http://movies.indiatimes.com/moviereview/2982981.cmshttp://indiafm.com/movies/review/13446/index.htmlhttp://www.bollyspice.com/movie-reviews.php/tashan-movie-review.html
http://www.hindu.com/2008/04/26/stories/2008042650900200.htmhttp://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Movie-reviews/301849/
http://www.desipundit.com/baradwajrangan/http://withoutgivingthemovieaway.com/main/reviews/tashan-review/
http://www.ibnlive.com/news/masands-verdicttashan-lacks-style/63972-8.html
http://hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=62b9d95a-4de0-45b6-bdb0-858c6e5e6b22&MatchID1=10&TeamID1=5&TeamID2=7&MatchType1=5&SeriesID1=1&PrimaryID=10&Headline=Review%3a+EMTashan%2fEM
http://www.mtvindia.com/movies/http://www.mag4you.com/bollywood/Tashan/9936.htmhttp://www.bollywoodmantra.com/movie-review/tashan-2/
http://reviews.merinews.com/catFull.jsp;jsessionid=E0B3A776926E9A424669D4C2A807E21F?articleID=133093
http://glamsham.com/movies/reviews/25_tashan-movie-review-040801.asp
(All bollywood)

Kunal Kohli’s title in trouble

Kunal Kohli announced his forthcoming film’s title on Wednesday. After a long wait he titled it as Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic but he wasn’t aware that the similar title has already been registered by another producer.

According to actor turned producer Sahil Chadha, he has registered the same title in 2006. He confirms “Yes it’s true. I had my title Thoda Life Thoda Magic registered two and half years back when I thought of making a film. A friend from the media informed me about Kunal Kohli’s film title Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic which is the same as my film’s title.”

However Chadha has already taken action and informed IMPA about it. He says, “I tried to contact Kunal regarding the same but have not managed to talk to him yet. His title is the same as my title and the audience may get confused by that. I have sent a letter to IMPA regarding the same.”

Kunal Kohli’s film revolves around Saif - a rich man, four orphan kids and Rani, who plays the role of an angel who comes in their lives to help them get rid of their worries. On the other hand Sahil Chadha’s film is about a man who believes in living life by spreading magic in others life. It is a feel good film. Jackie Shroff will be the main protagonist of the film. It also stars Mira Vasudevan, Salhil Chadha Arbaaz Khan and Anita Raaj in prominent roles.

According to Chadha his film is ready for release and he is planning to release it in May. Interestingly Kunal Kohli’s film releases at the same time in the same month. He further continues, “I have no objection if they change the title to Thoda Magic Ho Jaye . It’s a Yash Raj film and I have grown up watching their movies. I have nothing against them but the similar title will create confusion for audience.”

However, the title fight is not new for Yash Raj Films. Before this they had to face similar problems for Saif and Rani starrer Ta Ra Rum Pum . It can be recalled that Pradeep Sarkar’s Laga Chunari Main Daag was earlier registered by Producers Himanshu Joshi and Hirachand Jogani of Bhoomi Shree Pictures. Though Yash Raj Films had requested them to give this title, the producers refused. Hence Yash Raj had to register it as Laaga Chunari Mein Daag - The Journey Of A Woman.

Hope Kunal’s film gets right title.

Tashan faces boycott

Tashan, Yash Chopra?s latest flick released today faces a complete blackout from India's multiplex companies.


This could result in a loss of Rs 15-20 crore for Yash Raj Films, Chopra?s production house, this weekend. It had spent Rs 35-40 crore to make the film.

Leading multiplex chains including PVR Cinemas, Adlabs, Shringar Cinemas, Inox Leisure and Cinemax have rejected Chopra's demand for 50 per cent (45 per cent in Mumbai and Delhi) of ticket sales in the first and second weeks of release as his share.

For other films, production houses charge 48 per cent for the first week and 45 per cent for the second week as their share.

As a result, the multiplexes have decided to black out the movie from their screens.

Industry estimates suggest that these five multiplexes constitute around 65-70 per cent of the cinema chains in India.

What has complicated matters further is that Chopra has set different revenue share terms for different territories.

Sanjeev Kohli, director & CEO of Yash Raj Films, said: ?We have not asked the multiplexes for any incremental terms from those concluded last year.

The terms being discussed are the same as those agreed upon for our last year?s films.? He added that as in the past, the production house will compensate the multiplexes if the film does not perform to expectation.

With five films set for a release this year, Yash Raj Films was looking at signing a bulk deal with the multiplexes.

These films are Tashan, animation flick Roadside Romeo, Bachna Ae Haseeno with Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic with Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukherjee and Shah Rukh Khan's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. However, the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer wasn't a part of the package.

Tashan Opens Well

Tashan opens well at 75-80% but well short of the expected bumper opening. The multiplex revenue sharing problem cropped up again giving the film more problems. The film has been trashed by critics but public reports are not as bad. Tashan will not emerge the expected blockbuster but still could emerge a hit if it does not crash on Monday and the multiplex problem is sorted as quick as possible.

(Boxofficeindia.Com Trade Network)

Kunal Kohli's next for YRF titled Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic

Director Kunal Kohli's next movie under the Yash Raj Films banner has been titled Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic.

The movie stars Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukherji and has been co-produced by Kohli along with Aditya Chopra.

Kohli says, "Our lives are filled with ups and downs, tears and joy. It's during those periods when we're down and out we all need a little help, a little love and a little magic. Magic that will wipe those tears, magic that will help us fight the bad times, and love... Do we ever need to explain why we need love? Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic is about people like you and me who wish for a little bit of magic in our lives, and don't realise the angels who bring it to us are right amongst us."

Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic is slated to release on 27 June. The director has earlier made Hum Tum (Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukherji) and Fanaa (Aamir Khan and Kajol) for YRF.

This will be the second movie from the YRF stable in 2008 after Tashan, which is releasing this week (25 April).

(BOC)

Chopras ban Akshay Kumar?

Ok guys, here's the latest update on the brewing war between the Chopras and Akshay Kumar. First it became front page news, with Akshay Kumar getting upset with the producer of Tashan, Aditya Chopra for not giving in to his demand and airing his solo promos and now the we hear the apparent cold war has just got louder with Akshay Kumar refusing to come and support the tie up between the Tashan and the recently held Mukesh Ambani's cricket match.

"All the star cast of the film right from Anil, Saif and Kareena came, but Akshay Kumar put his foot down, since he had an tie up with a rival group," says friend of the Chopras. And we hear as a result the Chopras are very upset with him and have decided to hit back by not signing him for any of their film.

"The cold war has been going on for a while now. It started after Dil to Pagal Hai, but later Akshay went and apologized to them, and the Chopras let bygones be bygones and took him back as the hero in Tashan. But right from the beginning they had problems with him. But in spite of that they wanted to take him for another film, but Akshay apparently turned it down saying "I'm too big a star to be directed by their assistants, if the father and son (Yash and Aditya) wants to direct me, I'm ok with him."

It apparently hasn't gone down too well with the father and son duo. "If Shah Rukh Khan can do a Chak De with Shimit Amin, who is Akshay Kumar," says a executive from Yash Chopra. Let's hope better sense prevails on both the warning parties.

Who walks away with Kareena Kapoor in ‘Tashan’ -- Saif Ali Khan or Akshay Kumar?


Well, we can share the climax with you. Contrary to public expectations Akshay, and not Saif, walks away with Kareena eventually. Interestingly, it was during the shooting of this film that cupid struck Kareena and Saif.

Our well-placed source in the industry says, “Some select people from the industry have seen the film and they were quite surprised at the climax. It is clear towards three-fourths of the film that Saif will not get Kareena in the end, yet the viewers found it surprising. The surprise basically stemmed from the fact that Saif and Kareena make the hottest couple in town today; so the viewers felt sort of cheated when Saif loses Kareena.”

Does Kareena not love Saif in the film? Our source adds, “Kareena has excellent chemistry with Saif until the interval, but post-interval she switches her affection to Akshay.”

Why? “During the course of the film, Kareena learns from Akshay that he is her ''bachpan ka pyaar'. So the childhood lovers get together,” our source explains.

And what about Anil Kapoor? What is he doing in the film? “Anil plays a don, Bhaiyaji, who enjoys killing people as much as he loves enjoying speaking English. Saif and Kareena work with Anil, but Kareena steals a large amount of money and runs away. Saif is with her in her journey. Then, Anil hires Akshay to track down Saif and Kareena and get them back to him. As for the end as far as Anil is concerned, he is killed,” our source further reveals.

Tashan is produced by Yash Raj Films and is set to hit the theatres on April 25. Apart from Akshay, Kareena, Saif and Anil, the film, directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, also stars Sanjay Mishra and Yashpal Sharma. While Akshay goes by the name Bachchan Pande in the film, Saif is called Jimmy and Kareena plays Pooja. Vaibhavi Merchant (who has now become a Yashraj favourite) is the choreographer and Aki Narula has designed the clothes. The music has been composed by Vishal-Shekhar.

Promos of Kunal Kohli’s next with Tashan

Whoever is watching Tashan will get to see another treat, they will get to catch a sneak peek of Kunal Kohli’s Saif Ali Khan-Rani Mukerji-Amisha Patel starrer. Yes, the promo of Kunal’s next will premiere with Tashan! Kunal Kohli has confirmed that the promotion of his film will start on April 25th and the film will release during the summer on June 27th.

The film brings back the Hum Tum team but this time it’s Amisha who’s paired opposite Saif. The plot surrounds around a nanny (Rani) who helps a business-executive (Saif) and his 4 kids! Amisha plays an important part but Kunal Kohli has decided to keep mum about her role as it would tantamount into revealing the story. Rishi Kapoor has a special appearance in the film ,just like we’ve seen him in Kunal’s previous films such as Fanaa and Hum Tum .

The film is said to have a lot of special effects and the lead actors in the film took the risk for several stunts. Rani had to balance herself on cable wires during the shooting of a scene, “Rani underwent many rehearsals and trials for the stunt scenes. We shot on many outdoor locations in Mumbai, at Film City and inside the Yash Raj studios. At every place, we took utmost precaution. It could have been very dangerous if Rani had slipped. Thankfully, she pulled it off without retakes. This film will see a new Rani.” Kunal confirms! Amisha also learnt scuba diving for an item number with Saif in which they will be seen underwater, she said it will also help her in her role and not only the song. When questioned about her role in the film she replied, "I'm not allowed to talk about the film and anyway my look and the details of the film will soon be out, so just wait a while."

(Bollyspice)

No Sherlyn Chopra Opposite Shahid Kapoor In A Yash Raj Project!


Shahid Kapoor and Sherlyn Chopra in a Yash Chopra film? Before your eyes pop out of your sockets here's a clarification to reports about Sherlyn Chopra being paired opposite Shahid Kapoor in a Yash Raj Film.

The news has upset the Chopras no end. A source from from the Yash Raj banner clarified, "Shahid has been paired with Rani Mukherjee. Sherlyn is just making a brief appearance in the film. The report of Shahid acting opposite Sherlyn is false. Sherlyn is doing it just to gain some mileage for herself and also to get some cheap publicity."


Starlets like Sherlyn Chopra will go to any lengths to create news in the media!