Cruz and Hayek Triumph at ALMA Awards

Penelope Cruz and Salma Hayek were among the big winners at the American Latino Media Arts Awards on Thursday.

The Vicky Cristina Barcelona star picked up the award for best film actress at the ceremony, which celebrates the achievements of Hispanic artists in film, television and music.

Hayek was given the Anthony Quinn Award for Industry Excellence, while family drama Nothing Like the Holidays, starring Debra Messing and John Leguizamo, took home three honors.

Makeup artist Jeanne Van Phue and hairstylist Mary Ann Valdes were honored for their work behind the scenes of vampire movie Twilight.

Other winners on the night included The Office's Oscar Nunez, who was named best comedy actor, and Selena Gomez, who scooped best comedy actress for her part in the Disney Channel's Wizards of Waverly Place.

The ceremony was held at UCLA's Royce Hall in Los Angeles, and was hosted by George Lopez and Eva Longoria Parker.

Dil Bole Haddipa and Wanted in promotional war

After 3 weeks of back to back flop films, the box-office will finally see two big releases this Friday. Both, Salman Khan’s Wanted and Rani Mukherjee’s Dil Bole Hadippa are big in their own respect. Salman Khan has been going out of his way to promote Wanted like no other film. This remake of the Telugu blockbuster hit Pokiri has Salman Khan in a hardcore action role, something that he hasn’t done in a long long time. The hype on the film is considerably high and the opening week collections should be nothing short of the biggest amongst the year.

Yash Raj Film’s Dil Bole Hadippa starring Rani Mukherjee and Shahid Kapoor in lead roles is equally hot property. Rani Mukherjee’s diverse look from the Punjabi munda to the sexy-hot babe in bikini top has kept the film in constant public glare.

While the clash is big enough, chances are both the films would survive strongly at the box-office. The audiences haven’t seen a decent film in the past 3 weeks and should lap up both these releases.

Sushmita Sen missing from the promotional scenes of Do Knot Disturb

Have you noticed, in the promotional scenes of David Dhawan’s upcoming film ‘Do Knot Disturb’ some one is missing? Govinda is undoubtedly dominating the screen space. Ritesh has also occupied enough on-screen space. Even Lara Dutta has gained sufficient importance. Than why is it that only Sushmita Sen is missing?

And without any doubt absence of Sushmita Sen is arising many rumors. But now the reason is out and the reason is this promoting song of ‘Do Knot Disturb’. Sushmita is sizzling as usual and this particular presence of Sush definitely compensates her absence from the other promotional scenes of the movie.

Aishwarya Ranked Among The 10 Most Beautiful Women

After being through a disastrous run at the box office in the form of KYUN HO GAYA NA and SHABD, and being overshadowed by Mallika Sherawat's skimpy outfits at the Cannes film festival, finally here's some good news for the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai and her fans. Our desi beauty has been ranked as one of the ten most beautiful women of the world by the Harpers & Queen magazine. 

Topping the list was Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie; the others in the top ten list include Christy Turlington, Queen Rania of Jordan, Sofia Coppola, Nigella Lawson, Uma Thurman, Emmanuelle Béart, Kate Moss, Aishwarya Rai and Charlotte, of Monaco.

Slumdog Millionaire kid loses his dad

Alongside his elatedness post-Slumdog Millionaire success, the young lad goes woe-stricken as he loosed his father Ismail Sheikh yesterday, in Mumbai. The family members revealed that he was involved in private fight with tuberculosis for past couple of years. 

Sheikh, 46 is survived by his widow Shamim, son Azharuddin, an older son and two daughters. 

Much desolated in spirits, Shamim stated that her husband was suffering from TB for past two years. However they didn’t want Azharuddin to know about this as it would deteriorate his professional advancements. 

Danny Boyle, filmmaker of Slumdog Millionaire has expressed his condolences and will make his visit earlier by next month.

Jackson tipped to be 2010's highest earning star

LONDON: Late pop legend Michael Jackson is set to become the highest earning 

celebrity of 2010, with experts predicting the star will bring 
in an estimated $240 
million in revenue. 

The King of Pop's music shot back into the charts following his sudden death in June and the executors of his estate are planning to launch an official range of merchandise as well, reports contactmusic.com. 

Bosses at the company behind Jackson's doomed comeback concerts in London, AEG, are set to release a movie featuring rehearsal footage for his 'This Is It' residency, and are also reportedly considering a live album and DVD. 

The ventures look set to make Jackson the highest earning celebrity in 2010, ahead of Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo, Lady Gaga and Harry Potter actors Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe. 

Also featuring in the top ten is British supercouple David and Victoria Beckham, racing driver Lewis Hamilton, "Twilight" star Robert Pattinson, Elvis Presley and Britney Spears, according to a survey of licensing and merchandising experts across Europe.

Shilpa Shetty spoke to Desi Hits about her next moves!

So when are you going West next, Shilpa? "Well, I may be in the West for the India Day Parade in New York to be the Grand Marshall. It's an opportunity to celebrate being Indian and I'm looking forward to it because it's been going on for 29 years." We hear singer Jay Sean will be a guest at the parade with you, have you met him before? "I have met Jay. He's extremely talented. I hear they're expecting 60,000 people to show up and that's exciting."

Tell us about your experience on Big Brother UK? Was that your platform into the western world? "Totally. I have to give credit to Big Brother for rediscovering me. It was a good thing at the end of the day. I'm happy to have brought awareness to the issue of racism. I'm happy that people recognize me as someone who is not only Indian, but has made a name for herself in the global audience as well."

What did you think of the UK while you were there? "It must be really difficult to be discriminated against when living in a foreign country. When I got out of the Big Brother house, people received me with a lot of love and perceived me as someone with a great deal of patience and dignity, that's a compliment."

You had some controversy with Jade Goody at the Big Brother house with her racist remarks. Did you get to see her before she passed away? "Unfortunately, God bless her soul, she slipped into a coma the day I landed in London. I'm glad the air was cleared before she passed away and there were no ill feelings."


How was your return to India? "I've been working for the last 17 years now. I think the glamour always preceded the talent. It changed after Big Brother and I was internationally recognized, but I'm still the same person that I was, I haven't changed."

Do you keep in touch with Richard Gere after the controversy created when he kissed you on the cheek at an aids awareness event? "I was in Canada recently to present him with an award. I have a great deal of respect for him. I think that's one of the reasons I'm more well known in the West. Not a very good thing to be known for, but I've always believed you meet people for a reason, and through our work against AIDS discrimination and creating awareness, we were able to achieve what we set out to achieve."
I was internationally recognized, but I'm still the same person that I was, I haven't changed

"I'm now working on global warming. I really hope people understand how grave the issue is. I want them to start conserving energy and not wasting natural resources; make small changes, like switching off the lights. I know this sounds very preachy - but I want people to know we are just abusing the planet and we have to give back something to the future generation." 

You have your own cricket team the Rajasthan Royals, any cricket comments?
"Ha ha, well what do you want me to say? We were last year's winners and unfortunately this year we didn't make the cut. I don't want to look for any excuses, but it was sad we didn't have all our players."

Your relationship is in the news a lot, but we want to ask you first hand, is your relationship official? "I'm very much taken! [Laughing] Marriage is on my mind, but not in the cards right now. When the day comes, I will write it in my official blog, that will be a huge announcement for me, it's definitely the next step.

What are your next projects? Will you be in Hollywood? "I don't know what I'm going to do next, right now I'm getting ready for a new phase of my life. I'm opening a third spa in Mumbai. I've started my journey in production and intend to make interesting cinema. Actually, we're going to make another big announcement soon that you'll hear about. I'll only take up work that justifies my being there. I'm also working on a Chinese movie called 'The Desire.'"

Any last comments for your Desi Hits! fans? "I want to thank them for always acknowledging and appreciating my work. For all the people who want to be successful, follow my advice, love your parents and take care of your parents."

Hrithik shows his sincerity towards his wife by inking her name on his arm

Since Hrithik started working with Barbara Mori in Kites, there were constant rumors about Hrithik having an extra marital affair with her, inspite of his repeated denials.Now the rumors can bite the dust as the loving hubby Hrithik has tattoed the name of his wife Suzanne on his arm.

A source says, “Hrithik trusted no one but tattoo artist, Sameer Patange, who had earlier too done tattoos for him and Susanne. Hrithik got Susanne’s name tattooed while she is away in London with sons, Hrehaan and Hridaan. The actor is on his way to London and intends to give Susanne a surprise.” 

Tatoo artist, Sameer confirms the news, “Yes, Hrithik has got Susanne’s name tattooed on his wrist. We had discussed it earlier and he had asked me to work on an apt design when he and Susanne got a (six-point star) tattoo done from me a few months ago. Hrithik got the tattoo done while Susanne wasn’t in India. We had several meetings at his residence to finalise how the tattoo will look. I chose a font called Elvish, which is unique. Hrithik liked it a lot too. It was great to see how co-operative he was, carefully following all the instructions before and after the tattoo. He was like a child, extremely thrilled after the tattoo was done and couldn’t wait to show it to Susanne.”

Shilpa Shetthi is mesmerized by the charm of Prince Charles

New Delhi, July 9 (IANS) It was a meeting of Royals. Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty along with her Rajasthan Royal Indian Premier League (IPL) team had tea with Prince Charles, who left them floored with his charm.

"I must say he (Prince Charles) still has such a sparkle in his eyes, so charming, he had a conversation with everyone in the room," Shilpa posted on her blog shilpashettylive.com. 

"I complimented him on his charity work in India and the awareness he's spreading on issues pertaining to global warming. He said the Indian media should give it more attention," she wrote. 

The 34-year-old also posted that she will be in London for a few more days to shoot for the cover of a Fashion magazine in Central London.

No shaadi, Kareena Kapoor tells Saif Ali Khan, Sharmila Tagore

Now that Saif is almost 40 (he’ll be 39 next month) Saif’s mother Sharmila Tagore, never known to interfere in her children’s lives, has expressed concern about Saif’s marriage. For the first time she has come out in the open expressing the wish to see Saif and Kareena married. 

So far Sharmila has never commented on her son’s relationship, though it is no secret that Kareena is a favourite in the Khan household. 

Says a source, “Both Sharmila and Mansoor Pataudi have taken to Kareena in a big way. They’ve never seen their son happier in any other relationship. And they know Kareena is the r i g h t girl for their son. They also know that Kareena gets along famously with Saif’s children
. Now when Saif is on the threshold of 40, Sharmila has for the first time made a statement on her son’s private life.” The marriage matter has now reached a stage where the ball is entirely in Kareena’s court. Saif’s and Kareena’s mothers have met and expressed a mutual joy in the union. Kareena’s and Saif’s respective dads are all for the marriage too, though unlike the mothers, the two fathers have left the decision to the two people concerned. But Kareena is not ready yet. “I’ve to consolidate my career right now,” she says. “And I know I can perfectly balance out my marriage with my career. I’ve Saif’s mom’s example in front of me. She did all her best films after marriage. More recently Aishwarya Rai Bachchan too has stuck a perfect balance between home and studio.” 

For Kareena it’s not that simple. “I know once I get married I’d like to devote myself completely to that. When it comes to my emotions I’m not a multi-tasker. So at the moment, specially after Kambakkht Ishq, I need to work. These are the best years of my working life. And Saif is with me, neither of us are running away from a full commitment to one another. So no marriage for another three years.” Apparently after Sharmila Tagore’s uncharacteristic comments on her son’s marriage, Kareena was put in a quandary as neither Saif nor she could ever say no her. However Kareena has convinced Saif once again that marriage must wait. 

Says Saif, “Amma loves Kareena and of course wants us to be together always. But we both need and want to focus on our work and we’ll think of taking our relationship to the next level when the time is right. Right now, things are beautiful the way they are.”

Link: http://www.zoomtv.in/stories

Sushmita Sen in love

Guess where and when we saw Sushmita Sen right after IIFA awards. We met the Former Miss Universe at a music launch of a new album titled ‘Ehsaas Pyar Ka’. The singer of the album is Jahnavi Roy who is from Bengal and Sushmita Sen claims that she was present at the launch to encourage her. However, when asked about whether is there any ‘ehsaas’ of love in her life…she smilingly claims “Sushmita toh ushi eshaas ke saath jeeti hai”. Wondering what that means?

HollyWood is in communication with the Gaming Industry

Hollywood is representative of the movie industry and of all of the good and bad things it has done to society since the birth of movie-making. For some time now, it has developed a relationship with video game companies, which have created both game-based movies and movie-based games.

 
But while this collaboration between the two entities hasn't offered the best outcomes, things will certainly change, as it has become something completely natural to see that a video game is released at the same time with a theatrical launch of a movie and the fact that big IPs such as BioShock are preparing to make their silver-screen debut.

Now, a few developers that are working on movie-based titles, like X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, have talked about their jobs, which focus on delivering a great experience, not a spin-off that brings forth the movie in an interactive format.

“Movie games have a bad history,” Jeff Poffenbarger, senior producer at X-Men Origins: Wolverine, says. “There is a stigma to movie games, for a thousand different reasons. They come out and they don't live up to the hype people create. For us, it was all about creating the definitive Wolverine experience, not recreating the movie.”

“I think Hollywood is communicating with the games industry on a different level now,” Joby Otero, one of the developers who is working on Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, explains. “There's a recognition that a game's quality can impact the overall franchise. I think part of the reason is that more of the key creative decision makers grew up as gamers themselves. There's an understanding of how wrong these things can go.”

With such blockbuster titles, in terms of both movies and video games, it seems that at least movie-based ones are beginning to elevate the quality bar and be on par with already established video game franchises. Hopefully, for the sake of all players, things will follow with game-based movies and we won't have to fear that our favorite titles are being “slaughtered” by Hollywood.

Link: http://news.softpedia.com/news/Hollywood-Is-Communicating-With-the-Gaming-Industry-Differently-110504.shtml

See what Imtiaz Ali has to say about his film "Love Aj Kal"

Butt grabbing, mouthing expletives, planting kisses on the lips - everything that could have made the moral brigade stand up, take notice and make noise has been hailed by audiences as 'oh-so-cool' when it comes to Imtiaz Ali's latest outing LOVE JAA KAL. What could have been termed as sleazy has in fact aroused immense curiosity for this Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone starrer that is easily the hottest film of July 2009. Imtiaz Ali explains why he believes that audiences of today aren't averse of such scenes and the way he presented it to make it all acceptable. 

What could have been termed vulgar yesterday is the new 'cool'. How did you make it possible for LOVE AAJ KAL? 
I didn't want to mislead anybody who would have come to watch LOVE AAJ KAL. I wanted my audiences not to feel cheated when they see such few scenes that you mention. In fact while designing the promos, even I was contemplating whether I should expose these scenes to the audiences. 
'Nobody will feel inhibited watching LOVE AAJ KAL.'


But your film is mainly for family audiences. Weren't you worried? 
No, because all that is potentially objectionable in the film in the strictest of sense has been taken care of in the first promo. If you have warmed up on it, rest assured you will love LOVE AAJ KAL. 

Kisses included? 
Yes. Nobody will feel inhibited watching LOVE AAJ KAL. No one will hesitate walking into the film with his family. See, it's the way you put a scene in the film and treat it. It's up to the film maker not to make his film some fodder for perversion or lechery. 

It's heard though that people around you were not too comfortable with the idea of Saif trying to hold Deepika's butt, then share an unabashed kiss with her in the car and also mouth some funky Hinglish expletives on a date. 
True, some people thought that audiences may get an impression that the film was only about these things but I had my own viewpoint.

Aamir Khan avoids Imran Khan

With his first solo release JAANE TU... YA JAANE NA hitting the Bull's eye straight away, success has gone to Imran Khan's head and as a result his uncle Aamir Khan is avoiding him.....!!! Well, if that's what you are thinking, you are totally wrong. Aamir Khan and nephew Imran Khan are as close to each other as they were before the success of their film. 

Coming back to what brought you here. Well, Imran Khan's next film, KIDNAP (with Sanjay Dutt), is scheduled to release on 2nd October, the same date on which Aamir Khan's GHAJINI was slated to have hit the screens. However, the latest development is that Indian Films Company, which holds the rights of both GHAJINI and KIDNAP have now decided to postpone GHAJINI to 28th November. While the official reason is that the distributor did not want to release two projects on the same day, grapevine has it that the postponement has been done at Aamir's behest, in order to give an open field to Imran Khan's second release after JTYJN, KIDNAP. 

Despite the postponement of GHAJINI, the Eid-Gandhi Jayanti (October 2nd) line up looks quite interesting with Abhishek Bachchan's DRONA and Salman Khan's WANTED taking on Sanjay Dutt & Imran Khan's KIDNAP!

Link: http://www.glamsham.com/movies/scoops/08/jul/09-aamir-khan-avoids-imran-khan-070802.asp

Penelope’s fear

Penelope Cruz is real scared to sing for auditions. This adds up to her already-existing hesitation and fear for offering speeches and hot live interviews on the red carpet. For her role in the musical Nine, Penelope had actually danced and sung, much to her own amazement. “Nine is the first time I sing, dance and do a musical. It was lots of fun but scary too,” says Penelope. What did she do extra to manage it well? “I did five castings to get the movie with all the dancing and singing,” says she.

Jim Carrey is going to be Grand dad

Jim Carrey's daughter with his first wife Melissa is the rock musician Jane Carrey who is engaged to Alex Santana of the rock band Blood Money. Jane and Alex are now expecting their first child and the prospect of grandfatherhood has the 47-year-old Jim Carrey quite thrilled. "I am very excited. Jane is going to be a great mom," Jim said to the media.

Jim Carrey is going to be Grand dad

Jim Carrey's daughter with his first wife Melissa is the rock musician Jane Carrey who is engaged to Alex Santana of the rock band Blood Money. Jane and Alex are now expecting their first child and the prospect of grandfatherhood has the 47-year-old Jim Carrey quite thrilled. "I am very excited. Jane is going to be a great mom," Jim said to the media.

Micheal jackson's last Will

I, MICHAEL JOSEPH JACKSON, a resident of the State of California, declare this to be my last Will, and do hereby revoke all former wills and codicils made by me.

I

I declare that I am not married. My marriage to DEBROAH JEAN ROWE JACKSON has been dissolved. I have three children now living, PRINCE MICHAEL JACKSON, JR., PARIS MICHAEL KATHERINE JACKSON and PRINCE MICHAEL JOSEPH JACKSON, II. I have no other children, living or deceased.

II

It is my intention by this Will to dispose of all property which I am entitled to dispose of by will. I specifically refrain from exercising all powers of appointment that I may possess at the time of my death.

III

I give my entire estate to the Trustee or Trustees then acting under that certain Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust executed on March 22, 2002 by me as Trustee and Trustor which is called the MICHAEL JACKSON FAMILY TRUST, giving effect to my amendments thereto made prior to my death. All such assets shall be held, managed and distributed as a part of said Trust according to its terms and not as a separate testamentary trust.

If for any reason this gift is not operative or is invalid, or if the aforesaid Trust fails or has been revoked, I give my residuary estate to the Trustee or Trustees named to act in the MICHAEL JACKSON FAMILY TRUST, as Amended and Restated on March 22, 2002, and I direct said Trustee or Trustees to divide, administer, hold and distribute the trust estate pursuant to the provisions of said Trust, as hereinabove referred to as such provisions now exist to the same extent and in the same manner as though that certain Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, were herein set forth in full, but without giving effect to any subsequent amendments after the date of this Will. The Trustee, Trustees, or any successor Trustee named in such Trust Agreement shall serve without bond.

IV

I direct that all federal estate taxes and state inheritance or succession taxes payable upon or resulting from or by reason of my death (herein "Death Taxes") attributable to property which is part of the trust estate of the MICHAEL JACKSON FAMILY TRUST, including property which passes to said trust from my probate estate shall be paid by the Trustee of said trust in accordance of terms. Death Taxes attributable to property passing outside this Will, other than property constituting the trust estate of the trust mentioned in the preceding sentence, shall be charged against the taker of said property.

Link: http://www.michaeljacksonlastwill.com/

Angelina Julie is furious at brad Pitt

Angelina Jolie is furious that partner Brad Pitt is back in contact with his wife ex-wife Jennifer Aniston — so she’s been hooking up with her ex-husband, Billy Bob Thornton!

Amid claims Pitt and Aniston liaised at a New York hotel, the Changeling actress has apparently been having “steamy sessions” with Thornton, who she divorced in 2003 after three years of marriage.

“Angelina was beside herself with rage over Brad’s latest date with Jen, which left her humiliated and feeling like a laughing stock,” an insider told American tabloid the National Enquirer. “She has been giving Brad a dose of his own medicine by getting hot and heavy with Billy Bob.

“Brad recently walked in on Angie, naked in the bathtub, drinking wine and in deep intimate conversation with Billy Bob on the phone!

“That was the last straw for Brad. And worse still, when he asked Angie to hang up because he needed to talk to her about something important regarding one of their kids, she completely ignored him and kept on talking to Billy Bob for another half hour. Brad was ticked!”

Jolie and Thornton apparently speak on a regular basis. And, when they do, they “talk for hour after hour about the old days, turning each other on with the sizzling reminders of the great sex life they had together, how much she misses him — and how bored she is with Brad’s mind mind games.”

“It drives Brad nuts that Angie is still talking to Billy Bob,” the source adds. “By meeting up agan with Jennifer behind her back, Brad has started a full-scale war with Angelina.

“She’s determined to get even with Brad for his insensitive behavior — and sees her relationship with Billy Bob as the perfect revenge. “

Pakistani cinema owners are excited after success of Ghajni in Pakistan

Pakistani teenager Mohammed Salim joins the crowd waiting at one of Karachi’s cinemas to see the blockbuster Indian thriller "Ghajini" - Bollywood’s biggest grossing movie ever.


The action movie starring Indian actor Aamir Khan and based on the Hollywood film "Memento" spins a complex tale of a man with amnesia who tattoos himself and takes Polaroid pictures to remember people and places. 

"I loved this movie, not just because it was made in India but because we don’t produce such quality stuff here," Salim said afterwards. 

Just a year ago, the screening would not have been possible, as Pakistan had barred films from its rival neighbour for more than 40 years. 

Lifting the ban helped revive Pakistan’s suffering cinemas, luring film buffs away from televisions in their living rooms and into the movie houses. 

But cinema operators now fear that the spike in cross-border tensions in the wake of the Mumbai attacks could doom their businesses, especially after Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram suggested business links could be suspended. 

"The entire industry is looking at fresh tensions between India and Pakistan with great worry. We are certainly anxious to see how the situation develops," said Nadeem Mandviwala of Pakistan’s association of film exhibitors. 

"We want a set policy from the government so that we can keep our businesses running smoothly," he said. "Indian movies have got people back into Pakistani cinemas and have played a great role in saving cine culture in the country."

Pakistani cinema owners are excited after success of Ghajni in Pakistan

Pakistani teenager Mohammed Salim joins the crowd waiting at one of Karachi’s cinemas to see the blockbuster Indian thriller "Ghajini" - Bollywood’s biggest grossing movie ever.


The action movie starring Indian actor Aamir Khan and based on the Hollywood film "Memento" spins a complex tale of a man with amnesia who tattoos himself and takes Polaroid pictures to remember people and places. 

"I loved this movie, not just because it was made in India but because we don’t produce such quality stuff here," Salim said afterwards. 

Just a year ago, the screening would not have been possible, as Pakistan had barred films from its rival neighbour for more than 40 years. 

Lifting the ban helped revive Pakistan’s suffering cinemas, luring film buffs away from televisions in their living rooms and into the movie houses. 

But cinema operators now fear that the spike in cross-border tensions in the wake of the Mumbai attacks could doom their businesses, especially after Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram suggested business links could be suspended. 

"The entire industry is looking at fresh tensions between India and Pakistan with great worry. We are certainly anxious to see how the situation develops," said Nadeem Mandviwala of Pakistan’s association of film exhibitors. 

"We want a set policy from the government so that we can keep our businesses running smoothly," he said. "Indian movies have got people back into Pakistani cinemas and have played a great role in saving cine culture in the country."

Shahrukh Khan is going to become Dr shahrukh khan

London, July 10 : Shah Rukh Khan becomes Dr Shah Rukh Khan Friday.The Bollywood superstar is to be presented an honorary doctorate in arts and culture by Britain's Bedfordshire University at a ceremony in London for his contributions to culture.

Shah Rukh was nominated by Routes to Roots, a non-government organisation that works across the SAARC region to bring South Asian people together. 

"Shah Rukh Khan needs no introduction - being a superstar his contribution to arts, culture and media is well recognised. He has a huge fan following not only in India but across the globe," said a spokesperson for Routes to Roots. 

"In spite of being a busy superstar he reaches out to the needy, poor and contributes to charities for the upliftment of the underprivileged at large. He is a great philanthropist but rarely talks about his charities," the spokesperson added. 

Bedfordshire University deputy vice-chancellor Ashraf Jawaid said: "We are absolutely delighted to confer this honorary doctorate on Shah Rukh Khan. He has made an outstanding contribution to the arts, culture and media, which is recognised around the world." 

Befordshire University, whose 29,000 students include 1,300 from India, was ranked second in Britain for dance, sixth for journalism and 11th for marketing accounts in a 2008 national survey.

Link: http://shah-rukh-khan-news.newslib.com/story/2916-3232332/

Biggest Female money makers in Hollywwood industry

Memo to celebrity tabloids: Forbes just issued its list of Hollywood's biggest female moneymakers in the past year, and the top two spots are occupied by the former wife and current girlfriend of Brad Pitt.

Angelina Jolie tops the list, having earned $27 million from June 2008 through last month, and Jennifer Aniston is next at $25 million.

Much of what Jolie earned came by way of the $341 million worldwide boxoffice generated by the film "Wanted," plus a big upfront payment for her next film, "Salt."

Some of Aniston's fat paycheck comes courtesy of the $244 million that "Marley & Me" earned worldwide, and she makes a ton as pitchwoman for SmartWater. Also, money from "Friends" still pours in, and she got upfront cash for her upcoming comedy film "The Baster."

Forbes based its list on discussions with agents, managers, producers and lawyers. 

Coming in third with $24 million was Meryl Streep, star of "Mamma Mia!" which brought in $603 million worldwide. In her next movie, "Julie & Julia," she plays renowned chef Julia Child.

Sarah Jessica Parker is fourth with $23 million. She played Carrie Bradshaw in the HBO series "Sex and the City," and in the film, which took in $415 million worldwide last year.

Rounding out the Top 10 are Cameron Diaz ($20 million), Sandra Bullock and Reese Witherspoon ($15 million each), Nicole Kidman and Drew Barrymore ($12 million each) and Renee Zellweger ($10 million).

The Top 10 women earned a combined $183 million compared to $393 million for the Top 10 men, Forbes said. That list, released last month, was topped by Harrison Ford with $65 million.

Longines Ambassador of Elegance Aishwarya Rai lights up Royal Ascot with her radiant presence at Ascot in United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the uncontested Bollywood star and the brand’s Ambassador of Elegance for the past 10 years, lit up the racecourse with her radiant presence. In between interviews and photo sessions, the film star managed to find time to admire the creations modelled in the Royal Ascot Fashion Show and to watch some racing in the afternoon. Check Aishwarya Rai latest photoshoot for Longines Royal Ascot Race Event.

Katrina kaif injured her back

Here’s another name to the list of those injured on the sets of Priyadarshan’s De Dana Dan. This time it’s Katrina, who injured her back on Tuesday, while shooting with Akshay Kumar.Incidentally, this is the second time she was injured on the film’s sets.

Earlier, it was Sunil Shetty who was hurt after accidentally hitting an iron rod during an underwater sequence. He took nearly six months to recover. In December last year, Katrina had wounded her leg.

Wincing in pain, Katrina said, “It was a typical baarish-mein-bheegi-sari song. And well, I danced over enthusiastically. It’s always disastrous when you bend your back without a preliminary warm-up. Despite knowing this, I foolishly bent my back on Akshay’s (Kumar) arm. And as soon as I did that, I felt something give way. Now, I can hardly move around without experiencing pain.”

Katrina insisted that the shoot mustn’t slow down just because of her. She is more than eager to wrap up the current schedule of De Dana Dan as soon as possible. “I want to go to London to join my family and then we’re all going to Italy for a holiday,” she said excitedly. Laughing off the observation that this is the most accident prone film she’s ever done, Katrina said, “Akshay says De Dana Dan will be a hit because we’ve given our blood for it.”

Link: http://www.nhatky.in/katrina-kaif-is-in-pain-12340508

Nirma joins Cultural wing of PPP

Famous actress Nirma has joined the cultural wing of Pakistan People's Party.

According to details, Nirma has received her member ship for the cultural wing of the ruling political party. However Provincial President Cultural Wing actor Mustafa Qureshi said he did not know about her joining but he welcomed her in case if she was registered.

Priyanka Chopra at the launch of website of new release "Pyaar Impossible"

The Yash Raj film, which has been written by Uday Chopra also a lead actor starring opposite Priyanka Chopra, its website was launched. When she was asked about the effect of site www.pyaarimpossible.in on the performance of movie, she mention that “I don’t know how much it will help the film but I am sure that it will increase the curiosity factor for the film, as we have behind the scene shots.” Check out Priyanka Chopra at the launch.

Who is going to take charge of Micheal Jackson's children and his Fortune

Michael Jackson, who spent a lifetime and countless millions trying to recapture his lost childhood, has left his own children in legal limbo following his sudden death Thursday at a rented Los Angeles home, apparently of cardiac arrest.

Family associates and legal experts see a storm brewing over the care of 12-year-old Michael Joseph "Prince" Jackson Jr., 11-year-old Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and 7-year-old Prince Michael II Jackson.

Michael Jr. and Paris were in Jackson's sole custody following his 1999 divorce from Debbie Rowe, the children's biological mother. His third child, whom he affectionately called "Blanket," was born to an unknown surrogate who also waived her parental rights.

But it is not known whether Jackson ever wrote a will delineating who would have custody of his children or his estate when he died. He is survived by his parents, his ex-wife Rowe and his eight siblings. His first wife, Lisa-Marie Presley, is not expected to lay claim to any part of his estate.
 

Many lawyers and associates contacted by FOX News say they believe it was Jackson's intention for his children to pass to his mother, Katherine, the matriarch of the Jackson clan whom Jackson referred to as his "life and soul."

"I do not know of any kind of will or estate planning that Michael would have made," said Brian Oxman, a Jackson family lawyer. "But I know that he believed that if anything ever happened to him that his mother was a wonderful caretaker."

Debra Opri, a former Jackson family spokeswoman who represented photographer Larry Birkhead in his successful suit for custody of Birkhead's child with Anna Nicole Smith, agreed.

Katherine Jackson has been "a fantastic mother to a very large group, and I think these kids will be under her care and they're going to be OK," Opri said. "For a long time now things have been in place as to who would be raising the kids."

But the story may be complicated, as was always the case with the perennially beleaguered King of Pop. The judge who granted sole custody to Jackson in a 2005 dispute with Rowe reportedly reversed that decision over a technicality, according to TMZ, meaning Rowe could be first in line for custody of her biological children.

But Rowe, who reportedly was pushing for a larger settlement from Jackson during the 2005 hearings, stated clearly in court documents that she had no interest in taking her children.

"They're his kids. They're not my kids," she said. "I don't have any rights."

Some child advocates say Rowe's custody would prove detrimental to the children, and they believe she will never gain control of them.

"There's no judge on the planet that would give a woman like that custody of these children. She basically treated them like loaves of bread," said Wendy Murphy, a prosecutor and child advocate, who noted that 20 years of legal trends indicate that the contract will win out.

At stake is more than just family love. Jackson, who was believed to be $400 million in debt, also held giant assets, including the rights to his own mega-hits and a 50 percent stake in the company that owns the majority of the Beatles' catalog.

"Whoever does have custody of the children ultimately will have access to whatever remains of his estate," said Murphy. "Katherine, I think, if there is no will, will probably prevail because she's probably the relative that the courts will see as most appropriate."

But Katherine's claims could be put on hold if rumors of her poor health prove true and the courts determine she is not fit to care for her grandchildren, Murphy added.

Despite the potential potholes, some friends and associates said it was a cut-and-dried case that would not take long to resolve, even if Jackson had not written a will or left proper instructions for the maintenance of his estate.

"It is always complicated when there is not a will, but I can assure you that Michael Jackson crossed his T's and dotted his I's when it came to his children," Opri told FOXNews.com. "That means he made sure that there's something in writing saying who is going to take care of the kids and what was going to be done for them."

As sales of Jackson's records and memorabilia soar — Amazon.com reported a huge spike Friday over usual sales of his CDs and DVDs — it is possible that his very passing could help ensure that in death he eventually recovers from the massive debt he incurred in life, and provide financial comfort for his family.

But even then, Jackson might have thrown another fly in the ointment. Rumors persist that he planned to will the rights to the Beatles' songs to Paul McCartney, who never forgave Jackson when he bought the Fab Four's own songs out from under him in 1985.

Link: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,529185,00.html

Kreena sizzling on maxim Imdia magazine's cover

 Kareena Kapoor sizzles on the cover of Maxim India edition for the month of July 2009. She looks quiet stunning and appealig on the cover of Magazine. She features as the cover girl for maxim for second time. And I think maxim got something better this time though not upto its internatioal mark. Check out Kareena Kapoor on the cover of Maxim Magazine India and Kareena’s photoshoot for Maxim.

Link: http://www.bollyupdates.com/kareena-kapoor-maxim-india-july-2009/

Karan johar surrounded by coffee with karan lovers

As the director-producer-host Karan Johar is in USA shooting for his next venture My Name Is Khan with the hit Bollywood pair Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, he gets a pleasant surprise every other evening. When he is done with the day’s shoot and plans for a walk, his avid fans of his TV chat show Koffee With Karan surrounds him and ask for autograph and photo with him. It’s not only that but the funniest part is that each one of them requests him - ‘May we have coffee with you?’

But, Karan refuses all the invitations, because you know one can’t digest too much coffee.

Imran Kahn's interest in meeting technical staff

As we already know that actor Imran Khan is interested in many things besides acting like- direction and script writing, but now we came to know that he is also interested in the technical stuff of the films. The actor who visits theatre every Friday along with girlfriend Avantika and some of their common friends says, “I wait for the end credits to roll.”

“I love to see the names of the technicians because my sole aim in seeing a film is to know the names of the new talented technicians who are now a part of Bollywood. I make a mental note of the names; and then I keep it stored in my memory, so that when I start work on a new film, I may be able to work with some of these super guys,” he adds later.

Well God knows why he is interested in all these stuff when he has much more years to survive as actor in the industry.

Break up of Preity Zinta with Ness Wadia

After a month around trip to Europe, London and America, actress Preity Zinta returns back to Mumbai. With her comeback to the city, the girl known for her straight from heart talk spoke about her break up with Ness Wadia.

Over the tour to US and Europe she spent time with family and friends. “How nice to know that I was missed. I feel good when people ask where I have been. No, I hadn’t gone for good. I basically follow my heart. If I want to do something, I go for it, no matter what the repercussions. I had been traveling to America, London and Europe for a little less than a month,” said Preity.

She spent good time with brother and his daughter in LA as well as with best friend, Shagun Khanna and her daughter in London. Later two weeks in Europe. Preity found a company of Mumbai girls like Malaika Arora, Surily Goel, Gauri Khan and Seema Khan in London and moved on to Paris with Surily.

Rumors are that she planned such a big trip just to heal her broken heart. On that note she replied with a smile, “I needed a break and I took one. Of course, I’ve gone through a break-up, but that’s personal. The only reason I speak to the press about what’s happening in my life is because I’m linked with the wrong men. Now, I want to work so hard that people discuss my professional life rather than my personal life. You can invite people to your home but you don’t take them to your bedroom. I’ve to preserve a certain part of me away from the limelight.” 

Over her break up with Ness Wadia she said, “But then that’s life. It’s filled with unpredictable twists and turns. I have come out of the relationship smiling. Every experience in life helps you grow. You preserve the positive and move on. There’s no point dissecting it. Everything is so temporary. Even a Michael Jackson dies,” she said. 

Giving attention to the kind of indignity given to MJ even after his death, she said, “That is really heartbreaking. He was a one-in-a-billion entertainer. Why go looking for skeletons in his closet when he’s gone? Why not celebrate his genius and enjoy his music? If this can happen to Michael then who are we? He gave so much of himself to his art. Finally, what did he get?” 

No matter her heart is broken, she has acquired the required peace in it. “Either they’re writing about my broken heart or calling me a home breaker. I don’t care. I’ve to live with my conscience. I’ve to look myself in the eye in the mirror. I need my space. For those who want to know how I am, I am fine,” added Preity Zinta. 

But now what about her association with IPL? “I’ll only be there for the matches as opposed to being constantly involved with the IPL activities. The first two years, I gave all of myself to IPL. I’m on the verge of signing two new films with very big banners. But before that, Main Aur Mrs Khanna with Salman will be out. Though I’ve a cameo in the film, it is an interesting role,” said Preity.

Her mother has come to Mumbai to stay with her and the actress loves spending time with her. “There’s no place like home, especially with mom in it,” she adds.

Link: http://www.bollywoodhott.com/

Julia Roberts the Next Hollywood Star to Shoot in India?

It seems Hollywood is falling deeper and deeper for all things Bollywood and India! Word is the next Hollywood star to shoot in India is none other than 'Pretty Woman' star Julia Roberts! Reportedly she will be in India to shoot a film titled, 'Eat, Pray, Love.' Her co-star, Javier Bardem, who starred in and won an Oscar for his role in 'No Country for Old Men,' will be accompanying her.  

'Eat, Pray, Love' is an on screen adaptation of Elizabeth Gilbert's novel and memoir of the same name and is about her travels to Rome, India and Bali after a bitter divorce. Word is Bardem is in negotiations with film executives at Columbia Pictures to play Felipe who is the man Julia's character falls in love with after meeting him at an Indian ashram.  

What's even more exciting is that the film is being produced by Hollywood royalty, actor Brad Pitt along with Dede Gardner through their productions company Plan B.  

Plus, you might remember that Julia visited India in January and stopped at many places including the Taj Mahal. Perhaps that was just a precursor to her shooting 'Eat, Love, Pray,' in India? After all if she's going to be shooting and living in India with her husband Danny Motor and three young children for a while, she should get used to it. 

Link: http://www.desihits.com/blog/article/Julia-Roberts-the-Next-Hollywoos-Star-to-Shoot-in-India-20090610

Angelina Jolie to Film Another Movie in India

Mumbai is buzzing with anticipation for Angelina’s big return to India. This can mean one of two things. Either she is preparing for a role in a gut wrenching thriller or she plans to add another member to the Jolie-Pitt clan. Well she’s not there to adopt another kid. That’s been put on the back burner for now as Angelina plans to reprise her role as Fox for "Wanted 2."

Director Timur Bekmabetov said, “In the late autumn or winter, shooting will begin. The shooting will take place in America, India, and Russia.”

This may come as a bit of a surprise to some of you because her character was killed in the original installment of "Wanted." I guess we are going to have to wait and see what the writers have up their sleeves, this is definitely a juicy plot twist. Well she was shot in the head after all, so this should be…better be quite interesting.

 I wonder if ‘Wanted 2’ can live up to its Oscar nominated predecessor. We all know Angie is not one to disappoint. Oh well, if all else fails we can bet that she won’t be leaving India empty handed. I suspect a little baby will find itself with a new family in the cushy confines of Beverly Hills, California by the end of her travels.

This will be Angelina’s second film shot in India. The first was her portrayal of Marianne Pearl in ‘A Mighty Heart’. The film was about the life and times of Daniel Pearl, the Wall Street Journal reporter that was beheaded by terrorists a few years ago.

Well I hope India is prepared for the second coming…of Angelina that is. So get your sun glasses on because the flashbulbs are going to be extra bright this fall as a whirlwind of media coverage is sure to cover every second of Angelina in India.

Katrina Kaif Tops FHM India 100 Sexiest Women in the World List

The results are in. FHM magazine in India has released their annual list of the 100 Sexiest Women in the World. Who took home top honors?(Drum Roll) And for a second year in a row that title goes to Katrina Kaif! The lovely lady looks stunning on the magazine's cover in a short white dress, with voluptuous curly brown hair. The headline reads: "Katrina World's Sexiest (Yet Again!!)"

Other names that made the list: Sonam Kapoor at #11, Beyonce at #37, Mallika Sherawat at #48, Rihanna at #74 and surprisingly, Amy Winehouse at #99!

Hrithik Roshan And Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Together Again

After giving such box office hits as Jodha Akbar, Jodhaa Akbar (2007) and Dhoom 2, Back In Action (2006) , Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been singed by director Sanjay Leela Bhansali for his next film, Guzaarish (2010) , which is scheduled to go on the floors by the end of 2009 after Hrithik finishs up with Kites (2009) .

Sonu Niigaam's Tribute to Michael Jackson

Many Bollywood stars gave their praise on the multitalented artist, Michael Jackson. One celebrity, talented singer Sonu Niigaam has also made a tribute to the King of Pop, but in a different way. Sonu and his team recently started a fan page on his facebook dedicated to Michael Jackson that had him and many fans writing songs about Michael. It was a way for fans to know that music can, like Michael Jackson's hit song, "Heal the World!"

The fan page is also served as a forum for Sonu Niigaam and his friends and admirers to share their thoughts, views, and their music.

Among many songs that a lot of fans have written, a few were chosen to be compiled into a new song thanks to two talented musicians named Saikat Roy and Shankar Ramanamoorthy according to Sonu's facebook page. Sonu Niigaam has also written a song dedicated to Michael Jackson called "This Is It" that will be composed by Sonu himself. Sonu Niigaam told us at Desi Hits! his reasons on what compelled him to do this.

"I don't know what made me do it...I guess Michael! Unbelievable response... none of us knew there's so much talent in people who approached me as mere fans. I am glad it's getting an outlet. Composers wanting to compose and writers wanting to write, producers wanting to program...press wanting to write about it. It's getting bigger by the day...I'll have to format the process to be able to give it a structure. Got to take this on a different level."

Link: http://www.desihits.com/blog/article/sonu-niigaams-tribute-to-michael-jackson-20090706

Harassment of Pakistani comedian in India condemned

Islamabad, Jan 15 (IANS) Pakistani artistes Thursday condemned the harassment of comedian Shakeel Siddiqi during the recording of a comedy show in Mumbai.

"Performing art people are very sensitive and such kind of treatment in India raises many questions and is very unfortunate," Pakistan's leading comedian Umer Sharif told IANS.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) activists Wednesday entered a studio where Siddiqi was shooting for the comedy show "Comedy Circus" and told him to leave for Pakistan. MNS, led by Raj Thackeray, became notorious last year for violence against people who had come from other parts of India to Maharashtra state, of which Mumbai is the capital.

"I believe he would have gone to India after government's permission and making his trip public through media," Sharif said. He said that this incident will certainly force several Pakistani artistes to stay away from the Indian showbiz industry.

Siddiqi went to Mumbai last week to perform in the show. 

According to sources in the Pakistani film industry, at present there are at least six Pakistani artistes in India who are working on different projects.

"I know that at least six of the Pakistani people from our industry are in India but I don't want to name them... none of them have gone there with proper documents like work permit etc and are on visit visas," said a senior producer in the Pakistani film industry, requesting anonymity.

He said that it was responsibility of the host to provide security to the Pakistanis working there. He also criticised the role of Indian High Commission in Islamabad, which he said was "providing them visit visas instead of work visa".

Human rights activist Sohaila Rashid said that the Indian government is responsible for the incident. "This is strange that a Pakistani artiste was beaten up in Mumbai. This shows how responsible is the Indian government," said Rashid, adding it can add to the current tension between the two countries.

Sources in the Foreign Office said that they have asked the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi to immediately contact Siddiqi and repatriate him to Pakistan. 

The sources said that the government plans to issue an advisory to Pakistanis who are present in India or planning to travel there on security issues.

"It seems a horrible news and affects the relationship between the film industries of both the countries," said senior film producer Sangeeta. She said that Shakeel was well-known in India and was a source of bringing joy to millions of faces all across the sub-continent.

She said: "I am afraid that this can create further problems."

Link: www.bollywoodsargam.com

Akshay kumar plans to Release Film for Micheal Jackson

The undisputed King of Pop, Michael Jackson has tons of fans across the world, in India and in Bollywood and one of those fans is Akshay Kumar! It seems Akshay loves Michael so much so that it's being reported that he is planning a film based on his music and dance as a tribute to the legendary icon.

Akshay has branched off into film production with his company Hari Om Productions and rumors are flying that a film based on Michael's music is in the works. Akshay has stated that he still remembers his days living in Bangkok doing a cleaning job in a hotel while listening to Michael's music, tracks like, 'Billie Jean' and 'Beat It.' Akshay also said he was at MJ's 1996 stop in Mumbai as part of his tour in India. At the time Akshay says he was a small time actor and was a crazy fan jumping to try and get a glimpse of the King of Pop just like every other fan in the crowd. Wow who knew?!

It seems Akshay has a few other films in the works as well and much like Shahrukh Khan, he plans on doing a film for his son Aarav. Aarav loves cartoons and Indian mythology, so Akshay is planning on doing a film on mythology just for his son. 

Amitabh bachan is suffering from stomach pain

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has developed a pain in his stomach much like the one he got on his last birthday.

Bachchan, who was in London to shoot for a film, returned home, said he developed the ailment while was about to leave the city.

"I developed a pain in the stomach much like the one I got last birthday. And it happened just when I was getting set to leave from London. So I travelled home in order that I may be in a climate that understands my condition, rather than stay back in alien country and subject myself to a medical from those that are unaware of my history," Big B wrote on his blog.

"I drove straight to my doctor on arrival late last night, and after some external physical examinations, I was subjected to CT scans this morning. The results do not show anything, but the trouble exists, albeit in a much smaller scale than the last time," Amitabh Bachchan added.

The actor was scheduled to travel out of the city today but has postponed his plan until he recovers. He has been advised some more tests today.

"I would not want to get moving again and land up in unknown territory and end up in hospital. Its disturbing to be in such state. Frustrating that despite extreme care, a repetition of this problem keeps occurring," he wrote.

However, Amitabh Bachchan assured his fans that there was no need for alarm, adding that he did not want to take chances.

He said he has been confined to bed and watched the memorial service for Michael Jackson on television last night.

Link: http://www.bollywoodgossips.net/

The world says Good Bye to "The King of Pop"

The world said its final goodbye to the King of Pop Michael Jackson with a moving and emotional memorial service watched by hundreds of millions.

In one of the many moving speeches of the night Michael Jackson's brave daughter, Paris (11), brought fans to tears as she addressed the audience.

She said: “I just wanted to say, ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine, I just want to say I love him so much.”

Michael Jackson's brother Jermaine also spoke for his family, to thank those who attended.

He said: "On behalf of my family and friends I’d like to thank everyone for coming out. We thank you, that’s all I can say, we thank you very much.”

The official memorial service in LA lasted over three hours and was graced by a number celebrities including Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie and Mariah Carey who all sang at the ceremony.

Stevie Wonder said: "This is a moment I wished I didn't live to see come. Michael I love you." 

Tributes and songs also came from Jennifer Hudson, Queen Latifah and Brooke Shields among others. Brooke Shields, a long-time friend of Michael Jackson, fought back the tears throughout her speech. 

Civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton gave a emphatic speech, comforting Michael Jackson's children with the words: "There weren't nothing strange about your daddy. It was strange what your daddy had to deal with but he dealt with it." 

Messages were read from guests unable to attend the ceremony in Los Angeles, including former South African President Nelson Mandela and singer Diana Ross.

NBA legends Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant also revealed how Michael had affected them, with Magic revealing that “he made me a better basketball player”.

A gospel choir opened the service, with Michael Jackson’s coffin on the centre of the stage. It was carried there by his brothers, who were each wearing a white glove in homage, and stayed in the centre throughout the ceremony. 

It was a fitting memorial service for the King of Pop - the atmosphere was both celebratory and tragic. His legend will no doubt live on forever - both in the halls of fame and in the hearts of his fans.

Pakistani Prez and PM to attend Adnan's father's funeral at Islamabad

Pakistani Prez and PM to attend Adnan's father's funeral

Adnan Sami's father Arshad Sami Khan's last wish was to be buried near his home in Islamabad. His funeral is to be held in the afternoon on Friday June 26.

Pakistan's president Asif Ali Zardari and the Prime Minister Syed Yosaf Raza Gilani are expected to attend Arshad Sami's state funeral in Islamabad. 

"He will be getting a full state funeral with a 21-gun salute send-off. And yes the Prime Minister and Prez are coming. My mom, son and brother are flying to Karachi from Mumbai on Thursday and from there we take a connecting flight to Islamabad where the burial will take place on Friday after the Jumma prayers," said the heartbroken singer. 

"You know he died on my brother's birthday. We did our best for him. My only regret is that we could spend only fifteen minutes of his last moments when we could've been with him much longer if my dear wife hadn't chosen that morning to visit our home. But I guess God is watching." 

After his father's death on Monday June 22, Adnan immediately contacted the Indian government to allow him to fly to Islamabad. "The Indian authorities have been exceptionally co-operative and a wonderful support to me and my family in this hour of distress. I can't thank them enough," said Adnan emotionally.

Link: http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/2009/06/25/13022/index.html

Winner List of IIFA awards 2009

IIFA Awards 2009 Winner list. 
Best Film - Jodhaa Akbar
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Male - Hrithik Roshan – Jodhaa Akbar
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Female - Priyanka Chopra – Fashion
Best Director - Ashutosh Gowariker – Jodhaa Akbar
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Male - Arjun Rampal – Rock On!!
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Female - Kangna Ranaut – Fashion
Best Actor in a Negative Role - Akshaye Khanna – Race
Best Story - Neeraj Pandey – A Wednesday!
Best Debutant Star – Male - Farhan Akhtar
Best Debutant Star – Female - Asin
Outstanding Achievement by an Indian in International Cinema - Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Best Actor in a Comic Role - Abhishek Bachchan – Dostana
Best Music - A R Rahman – Jodhaa Akbar
Best Lyrics - Javed Akhtar – Jashn-E-Bahara (Jodhaa Akbar)
Best Playback Singer – Male - Javed Ali – Jashn-e-Baharaa (Jodhaa Akbar)
Best Playback Singer – Female - Shreya Ghoshal – Teri Ore (Singh is Kinng)
Best Dailogue - Manu Rishi – Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!
Best Screenplay - Neeraj Pandey – A Wednesday!
Sound Editing - Ghajini
Sound Recording - Ghajini
Best Action - Ghajini
Special Effects - Ghajini
Best Sound Recording - Rock On!!
Best Editing - Jodhaa Akbar
Best Make-up - Jodhaa Akbar
Art Direction - Jodhaa Akbar
Best Costume Award - Jodhaa Akbar
Best Background Score - A R Rahman
Star of the Decade – Male - Shah Rukh Khan
Star of the Decade – Female - Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Music Director of the Decade - A R Rahman

Link:http://buzz.nitinh.com/2009/06/results/iifa-2009-winner-iifa-award-winner-list/

The New Mr. and Mrs. Smith?

Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor


Watch out Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie! Looks like lovebirds Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor have paired up in soon-to-come Bollywood action film, ‘Agent Vinod.’ The Bolllywood it couple will both be playing spies, just like in Mr. and Mrs. Smith.

When we first heard about the film, the female lead role was to played by Deepika Padukone. However, director, Sriram Raghavan denies ever approaching Deepika. Was that just a rumor or did Bebo feel threatened after the new formed friendship between her boo and his latest co-star?

Sources report, when Kareena secured her role, she was still not so thrilled because she played a very small role. Since then, Kareena has gained a much more substantial role, assuring her time in the spotlight. Looks like Bebo might be wearing the pants in this relationship!

Saif assured fans, “She does play an undercover agent from another country. Kareena will do everything I do in the film, and she’ll do it even better. She will kick butt better than all the other girls in our industry, that’s for sure.” The couple will be going through rigorous training to get into athletic shape for some hot fight scenes.

The good news doesn’t stop there for Kareena! The buzz is that the starlet will be joining Saif’s production house, Illuminati Films, and they will both be working together to produce ‘Agent Vinod.’ Looks like Kareena’s taking some big steps! Sources report Saif said, "We’ll definitely be producing films together. It will give us a chance to grow as actors. She is as much the producer of ‘Agent Vinod’ as I.”

We can expect ‘Agent Vinod’ to be released in the next year. Will Kareena be able to prove to us that she earned this role through hard work or does Saif simply melt at her every request? Will the couple ook as good as Brad and Angelina? Let us know your thoughts about the upcoming film!

Link:http://www.desihits.com/blog/article/saif-ali-khan-and-kareena-kapoor-the-new-mr-and-mrs-smith-20090701

Rani mukherji in an interesting role

Rani Mukherji Goes Sardar!

This weekend the long awaited film 'Kambakkth Ishq' will hit theatres. The glamorous Kareena Kapoor plays a model and buff Akshay Kumar plays a stuntman. But moviegoers will soon be seeing a sight they've never seen before...Rani Mukherji as a sardar. That's right, Yash Raj Films' next release 'Dil Bole Hadippa' will feature the actress dressed as a sardar and she is almost unrecognizable!

The concept isn't really that new. A girl has a dream which she hopes to pursue, however she's in a male dominated society. She then decides to dress like a man to pursue her dreams and along the way falls in love. The idea that they would use Rani Mukherji to portray this role and don her in a Punjabi, Sardar clothing could spell some pretty funny moments as well as a fresh look on the clichéd plot.

Rani Mukherji is no stranger to playing roles that may be difficult for other actresses, she's played strong roles in 'Black' and 'Laaga Chunari Mein Daag' and more light heated ones in 'Bunty Aur Babli' and 'Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic'. She's always up for a challenge and audiences are always looking for something new. Mike Stringer who recently worked on 'Dhoom 2' was flown in from London to create her look for the film; while Manish Malhotra designed the costumes.

'Dil Bole Hadippa' is directed by Anurag Singh and produced by Aditya Chopra. It stars Shahid Kapoor, Rani Mukherji, and Anupam Kher. If all goes as planned, the movie should be released on September 18, 2009. We have the pictures of Rani Mukherji in her sardar garb. We want you to tell us what you think about her costume and if it makes you want to check out the film.

Link:http://www.desihits.com/blog/article/rani-mukherjee-goes-sardar-20090701

Micheal Jackson's funeral plans

Michael Jackson's Family Still Considering Funeral Plans
Father Joe Jackson calls press conference to announce record label; says Michael will not be buried at Neverland.


Reporters gathered outside the Jackson family compound in Encino, California, on Monday morning for a press conference from Michael Jackson's father, Joseph, during which they expected to hear about plans for the singer's funeral. 

But instead, Joe Jackson deflected most of those questions and talked about a new record label he's launching with a former member of the classic R&B group the Chi-Lites, even as he defended detractors who questioned his comments about the label on the red carpet the previous night at the BET Awards, which were a tribute to the singer. 




When asked about funeral arrangements, the Jackson family patriarch said, "We don't have the time frame yet because we want to see how ... the second autopsy turns out." He said the family was in no hurry to make plans for a memorial, and family friend the Reverend Al Sharpton said, "It is a determination of the family to be careful and deliberate on how they plan this celebration of life. ... This is not something you do carelessly and spontaneously. We must also remember that they are still grieving." 

Joe Jackson, 80, said the family expects the results of the second autopsy "soon" and that they will move ahead with funeral plan at that point. 

The county coroner conducted an autopsy on Friday, then deferred a decision on the cause of death pending toxicology reports, which could take four to six weeks. Though no details were forthcoming on the funeral, Joe Jackson denied reports that Michael would be buried at Neverland Ranch, the former amusement park/zoo/mansion that was the pop singer's longtime home. "That's not true," Joe Jackson said. 

Just hours after his wife, Katherine, was granted temporary custody of Michael's three young children, Joe Jackson said, "This is where they belong. ... We're the parents and we're going to take care of them and give them the education they're supposed to have." He said the children were happy and that they were excited to be in the company of other children their age, presumably referring to the young offspring of the Jackson's other adult children. 

Seeking to explain what some portrayed as an ill-timed plug at the BET Awards Sunday night during a CNN interview for his new musical venture just days after his son's death, Joe Jackson explained that Michael would have wanted him to keep the family's musical legacy alive, at which point he discussed the label again. 

Speaking to CNN again after Monday's press conference, Jackson was asked by reporter Don Lemon if he wanted to clarify his statement about the label from the night before and Jackson again said he mentioned it because he wants to "make sure the whole world knows what a superstar he was." 

CNN also reported that Joseph and Katherine have filed petitions to administrate Jackson's estate, while TMZ noted that the singer died "intestate," meaning with no will, though longtime lawyer John Branca reportedly told TMZ that he recently came back on board with Jackson and that he has a signed will that he intends to file within 30 days.

http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614944/20090629/jackson_michael.jhtml

Tribute from a living legend to a passed away legend

Michael Jackson personified the impossible: Amitabh Bachchan

NEW DELHI - Pop legend Michael Jackson was the “incredible perfection that god could have possibly created” and a man who personified “the impossible”, says Hindi film megastar Amitabh Bachchan.


“He (Michael) changed the very psyche of not just the kind of music he was making, but also the psyche of the listening audience. Nothing compared to him. He was just this incredible perfection that god could have possibly created in his mercy,” Amitabh posted on his blog Friday. 

“His body moved like a wound up toy machine. Every conceivable action of rhythm and style was incorporated inside his diminutive form without any blemish. The exhilaration that he provided became synonymous with the ultimate. He was the impossible,” he added. 

The news of 50-year-old Jackson’s demise Thursday following a cardiac arrest at his home in Los Angeles took Amitabh down memory lane. 

“In the mid 60s or thereabouts, I heard a group of pop singers who went by the name of ‘The Jackson Five’…the youngest among them was this chubby cute little fellow with an extraordinary voice and a body that for his age and countenance moved exceptionally well. I found out his name was Michael - Michael Jackson. 

“It was around the mid 70s that lightening struck and from it emerged this grown up version of Michael Jackson, singing, moving, dancing like he was from some other planet,” wrote Amitabh who had a chance meeting with the man himself. 

The megastar’s first tryst with the King of Pop, who became a rage amongst people cutting across all ages and strata, was after 1982, the year Amitabh had an accident on the sets of his film “Coolie”. 

Amitabh had gone to the US for recuperation and consultation with doctors there on his post-operative condition and happened to learn that Jackson was to perform at a concert the next day. He did everything he could to watch the show and when he finally got to experience it, he says it was “hallucinogenic madnes”. 

In the early 1990s in New York, Amitabh had Jackson knocking at his door. 

“The door bell of my room in the Helmsley Palace Hotel rang and I sauntered up to open it. There as I stood in the doorway, across me, was Michael Jackson. He looked a little surprised as he turned around to those he was accompanied with and in his now well known soft voice gently spoke up - ‘Oh! Excuse me! I think I have the wrong room’,” said Amitabh. 

Later of course, the two legends met again and “exchanged pleasant conversation”. 

“He was soft spoken, very humble and most polite. I never saw him again, but when he came to perform in Mumbai (in 1996) at the Andheri Sports Complex, Prateeksha, where I live, shook the entire night with the vibrations of all his most popular numbers booming out from the venue. 

“An exceptional artist has gone. Someone that created an almost outer world experience for all of us with his art,” Amitabh wrote.

http://blog.taragana.com/e/2009/06/26/

Confession of Kangna Ranault in front of media

For_Immediate_Release:

 
(Free-Press-Release.com) December 30, 2008 -- All of 21, Kangna Ranaut has seen and suffered a lot (in her own words) during last few years in showbiz! 

In an earlier conversation, she had admitted that she was going through bad times. She had said, "I got everything very soon in my life but personally my life was going through too much of trauma.

I was really trapped by dirty people and they wouldn't let me concentrate on my work. They tried to harm me both physically as well as mentally."

However, everything seems to be passe now ever since she moved on to 'yoga'. The biggest gift she's received from this, she says, is the practice of Silence or "Maun". The practice of staying silent physically brings to the fore the tremendous busy-ness of the mind and help to bring some quiet there as well.

Effervescent and vivacious by nature, Kangna has found a 'thehrav' in her life ever since she adopted 'maun'. "Initially I found it very difficult to stay silent; however through perseverance I did manage to develop this as a regular part of my yoga practice and have benefited ever since."

"When I am working, I have to give it 100%. So that's why I took a break for my personal work to sort out all my issues and only then got back to work. I did not want to struggle between work and personal issues. I am not that kind of a person. I can do only one thing at a time", she had stated earlier.

"Now, through Silence, I feel I've discovered my Soul, the very centre of my being, which is the source of all my energy - creative, spiritual, emotional and mental.

I've always been a very focused person, and I've chosen to portray characters in my film that are challenging and strong. This awareness and practice has given me greater ability to channel my energy effectively to deliver even better on these performances", she says in an obvious relaxed tone.

Through shooting Raaz-The Mystery Continues, Kangna has been even more diligent about this practice. That's because the character is one who gets possessed and has to deal with the horrific consequences.

"The role required a lot from me. It's a very intense role. So it was imperative to keep my practice alive during the outdoor schedules to be able to maintain the focus and equanimity needed to deliver the required performance."

"I know where I want to go. That inner destination's where my eventual goal is", concludes Kangna

http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200812/1230616457.html