Stardust May 09

Akshay Kumar: Good times ahead!
It pays to be a popular star. And Akshay Kumar While on the couple,

is enjoying the privileges of being one, despite one wonders what
his new film ‘8X10’ turning out to be huge the big hue and cry
disappointment. The actor has been shooting non- was about when
stop on the outskirts of Mumbai for the past few Twinkle and Akshay got a little naughty at the
weeks for Vipul Shah’s ‘Action Replay’. To make recently concluded fashion week in Mumbai. It
sure AK was comfortable, Vipul hired a sprawling was a spontaneous reaction and the audience en-
bungalow for him and even refurbished it. It has joyed it. One hears that Tina was so disturbed by
a pool, a private gymnasium and a lush garden. the backlash that she just disappeared out of town
When Akki invited his family over, beta Aarav for a few days. The moral brigade’s tamasha seems
started to learn gardening. The actor even went for to be never-ending. They haven’t heard of Rakhi
a short hike with wife Twinkle in the nearby hills. Sawant obviously – they’ll know the true mean-
Chalo, all this is fine. Abhi ek hit ho jaaye… ing of scandalising.
Stardust May 2009 13

By the way, a news channel did a story on
who was better on the ramp – Akshay or
Shah Rukh Khan? Then they compared the
two actors and their antics at the fashion
week. In the end, the scales tilted in favour of
SRK. We hear an Akshay loyalist then called
up the channel’s reporter and said, “We
know which actor has prompted you to do
this.” We hope they weren’t talking about
Aamir Khan.
Shah Rukh Khan

and Karan Johar: No
starry ambitions!
SRK’s best pal Karan Johar was in for a rude shock
recently when a film-maker friend of his came to him
with an offer. The guy planned to do a remake of the
‘70s hit ‘Rajnigandha’ and wanted Karan to play the
lead role, which was played
by Amol Palekar in the
original. Karan almost fell
off his chair. But even then
he didn’t lose his wicked
ways. “At least you don’t
want me to play Rajni,” he
told the maker. And they
say I’m bitchy.
Karan’s shooting of ‘My

Name Is Khan’ is taking
place in Mumbai right now.
It’s a virtual high security
zone right now. No wonder
all the actors are feeling
like Shah Rukh Khan. We
hear the most affected
is Jimmy Shergill. He’s
Aamir Khan:
Wasn't me! adding so much intensity
into his role that Karan
literally has to control him.
Someone please tell him
Shah Rukh Khan seems to have become
the name of the film isn’t
wiser suddenly. He’s decided not to speak on
‘My Name Is Jimmy’. And
Aamir henceforth, whatever the provocation
that the first choice for the
may be. In fact, his new resolution is to mend
role was Aamir Bashir…
bridges with all those he’s fought with. Let’s
There, we’ve burst the
see how long this lasts. Until his next hit?
bubble now.
Jimmy Shergill:
Head in clouds!

If someone were to write gym if he doesn’t want to be made the butt end
a book on our stars and of jokes for his increasing idiosyncrasies.
their quirks, it would be an
endless tome. An amusing
chapter in the Saif Ali Moving on from one toned body to another.
Khan section would be Celina Jaitley has been at the receiving end
about his gym escapades. of a torrent of compliments for her bootylicious
Seems the Chote Nawab avatar in the last issue of Stardust. The gorgeous
is so at ease with his body actor however, was taken aback when the even
that he walks around naked more gorgeous Hrithik Roshan went out of
in the locker room on his his way to praise her, adding that he’d actually
way to a shower. His full stopped his car to check out one of the many
Monty act has everyone hoardings in the city she’s plastered across.
at the gym sniggering as Last we checked, Celina hasn’t stopped grinning
over that magnanimous approval. Just goes to

they derisively refer to him
as ‘raja ka beta’. His royal prove that in the ego-driven world of Bollywood,
highness also gets mighty Saif Ali Khan: gentlemanly gestures exist and are appreciated.
peeved when asked to In the buff!
produce his identity card at the gym gate for security
reasons. Saif would be better off investing in a private
While on Celina, seems the actress is a huge television
junkie and doesn’t want to miss out on her favourite
TV serials. That explains the Tata Sky satellite set she’s
Celina Jaitley: put up in her vanity van. So that’s why her van’s
Hogging the become the latest hang out spot on the sets as she
limelight! catches up on lost television time with her co-stars.

No wonder her popularity is soaring these days!

One thing we read recently about hotshot producer
Sajid Nadiadwala had us in splits. Commenting about
working with Hollywood actor Denise Richards to a
leading tabloid, Sajid remarked how it was ‘mesmerising’
to work with her as he was in college when ‘Wild Things’
and ‘The World Is Not Enough’, movies that catapulted
her to sex symbol status, released. Considering the
movies released in late ‘90s, we’re not sure what
college Sajid was referring too. Unless he’s done some
specialised courses late in the day that we’re unaware
of, the only logical conclusion we can think of is that
he’s never really graduated; which would make him a
life-long college student. Oh well, it’s never too late to
learn Sajid!

Maanayata Dutt:
Dancing queen!
While we’ve feasted our eyes

on tons of pictures of Amrita
Arora’s wedding celebra-
tions, the one photograph
we’d love to get our hands
on (as would many others) is
of Maanayata Dutt dancing
with gay abandon. In fact, so
amusing a spectacle did she
present, that Karan Johar,
who was sitting nearby had a
hard time controlling his glee
and was snickering away delightedly under the
protection of his hand over his mouth. We only

hope K Jo’s next movie doesn’t feature a non-stop

dancing caricature. If it does, you’ll know where
Sajid and Wardha
the inspiration came from. Nadiadwala: Learning curve!

would walk in late. After all, no one expects a heroine
to be on time. Adjusting to the filmi ways, Kangana
too started following Bollywood timings. But later, the
uber professional star realised that wasting precious
time wasn’t really her forte. And so, after giving all the
concerned people a dressing down regarding keeping
time, she has reverted back to her punctual ways.
That definitely gives her even more time to spend with
boyfriend Adhyayan Suman, no?
Govinda: New
and improved!
While on learning, the erstwhile late lateef Govinda
has been shocking co-stars on a regular basis. In a good
way, mind you. The actor has been arriving dot on time
for early morning shifts for a while now. Looks like he’s
decided to take his second…third (we’ve lost count
honestly) innings in Bollywood very seriously and is
taking no chances this time. Forget turning over a new
leaf, he’s turned an entire stalk.
Speaking of Govinda, his dedication and zeal needs to

be applauded as the actor has been battling asthma
for a while now. While practising his dance steps for
a movie, Govinda kept using his pump to catch up on
his breath. Even though he may be unbeatable when it
comes to dancing, we think Govinda should take things
easy because health comes before everything. Take care
Chi Chi, we’re cheering for you.

It seems the entire industry is taking punctuality very MAHIE GILL:

seriously. Kangana Ranaut wasn’t exactly happy with Punjab di kudi!
Kangana Ranaut and
the time-keeping skills on her new project. It seems the Adhyayan Suman:
actress would turn up early on the sets and keep her Time keeper!
heels cooling simply because the other technicians

Looks like Riteish Neetu Chandra:
Deshmukh and girlfriend Bear me!
Genelia are finally coming
out in the open about
their relationship. One saw
them making a lovey-dovey
appearance at Manish
Malhotra’s post-event
party at the fashion week.
And this time, they didn’t
sit in separate corners –
they mingled with everyone,
arm-in-arm, looking madly
in love. This pyar is khullam
khulla now; the gharwallas
can take a walk.
Riteish Deshmukh
and Genelia: Love
conquers all!
Incidentally, did you know that Genelia’s friends call her a ‘fake’
Catholic in jest? That’s because the actress has an aversion to
wine and happens to be a pure vegetarian. Arre Vilasrao, at
least don’t object now. Such a sweet mulgi is hard to find.
Neetu Chandra has re-christened Jag Mundhra ‘teddy bear’

on the sets of Magna films upcoming ‘Apartment’. The spunky
Chandra lass gets along famously with Mundhra, who is clearly
loving the attention.The other star of the film, Tanushree
Dutta is quite the opposite; polite, discreet and preferring to
keep to herself. Let’s hope Jag’s fondness for Neetu doesn’t
make him extend the shooting schedule. Considering Rohit
Roy is waiting on the side - and not too patiently either!
This month goes to

Fardeen Khan for proving that
family comes above everything.
When papa Feroz was admitted
in hospital recently for the second
time, Fardeen was shooting
somewhere in Lonavala. But every
night after shooting, the actor
would drive down to Mumbai to
meet his dad. Then head back to the
location just in time for next day’s
shooting. On holidays, he would sit
in the hospital with wife Natasha
day and night. Feroz should really be
proud; beta ho toh aisa.

PHOTOGRAPH: RAKESH SHRESTHA
A f
e
Gam anshipO
O n e - U p m
T
wo of the most beautiful women.
Two successful actresses. Two
ambitious achievers. When they
are in the reckoning for the same
prize booty, sparks are bound to fly.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Katrina
Kaif have a lot in common, besides
Salman Khan and a discernible accent,
that is. Both were successful models
before entering films. At the outset,
both of them were criticised for
their lack of talent. Both were in the
news more for their boyfriend issues
rather than career choices. The only
difference was that Katrina started her
innings whilst Aishwarya was in the
preparation of wrapping hers up.
They’ve never been considered
in the same bracket but the clash is
evident because both have the same
goals in showbiz. Whenever there is
any debate on who’s the most beautiful
face in Bollywood, only two names are
24
KATRINA EDGES
PHOTOGRAPH: DABBOO RATNANI
mentioned – Ash and Kat. While Ash
figured once in the list of the world’s
prettiest people, Katrina made
headlines when she was declared
Asia’s sexiest woman. Even in terms
of endorsements, they go neck to
neck promoting the same premium
profile of clients. Undoubtedly,
over the years, both have groomed
themselves to become global icons.
In real life, Katrina and Aishwarya
have never really interacted much
with each other. After the Salman
Khan chapter in her life ended, Ash
kept a safe distance from anyone and
everyone connected with him. Katrina
was already a supermodel then and
touted as the next big thing. Except
for brushing shoulders at a beauty
pageant, Aishwarya and Katrina have
never really gelled on any other level.
In fact, because the common
factor between them was not very
pleasant (Salman obviously), if at all
they shared any vibes, they were
only cold and colder. Like a fashion
stylist who knows both of them from
close quarters reveals, “Once, not
very long ago, they came face-to-face
at a media tycoon’s personal bash
in New Delhi. They just exchanged
half-hearted smiles and turned away.
The tension between them is very
obvious. It’s almost awkward.”
Perhaps it’s this tension that’s
taken its toll on Katrina’s friendship
with Abhishek Bachchan as well. Not
many people know that when Ram
Gopal Varma was planning ‘Sarkar’,
it was Abhishek who recommended
Katrina’s role for the lead opposite
OUT AISHWARYA 25
him. It was a small role but it came
at a time when nobody was taking
Katrina seriously as an actress. Bagging
a Ram Gopal Varma film at that time
was a huge plus in her career and
she always thanked Abhishek for the
recommendation.
But after Aishwarya came into his
life, all that changed. The Abhishek-
Katrina friendship died a natural death.
Despite the fact that they both got
along fabulously well together, things
just weren’t the same. Says one of
her Kat’s close friends, “Even when
Katrina was having her birthday bash
sometime back (where the legendary
fight between Salman and Shah Rukh
Khan happened), she had made it a
point to invite Abhishek. She was very
upset when he didn’t even reply.”
The first time fireworks flew between
Aishwarya and Katrina was when the
famous The Unforgettables, a world
PHOTOGRAPH: YOGEN SHAH

tour featuring the Bachchan family was
being planned. For some venues, they
had decided on adding guest stars.
Katrina’s name was at the forefront –
the organisers were very keen that Kat
be a part of the entourage. The reason
was simple – Katrina’s popularity is Abhishek and Aishwarya:
In holy matrimony
immense among global Indians. That
explains why she’s one of the most that she’s single makes her a bit more gowns, hell broke loose when Katrina
searched personalities on the Internet. appealing even to clients who have Kaif strutted her stuff as the show
Talks had also been initiated with Kat to make a choice between her and stopper of the day.
but for some reason, things came to Aishwarya where plum endorsements It was touted as one of biggest
a grinding halt all of a sudden. Says are concerned. The first time Katrina highlights in Katrina’s career as she
an insider from the events industry, scored over Ash in this arena was when represented the Barbie doll in India.
“Aishwarya didn’t want another actress she replaced her as a leading jewellery However the fact that Katrina replaced
to dominate the tour, least of all label’s brand ambassador. The client Aishwarya came as a surprise to
someone like Katrina.” had been an Ash loyalist for a long many. When media present there,
One doesn’t have to be Einstein time. But last year, when it was time for quizzed Kaif about it, she was quick
to figure out the real reason. Katrina a renewal of contract, Aishwarya was to wash her hands off the replacing
has youth on her side. And the fact shown the door and Katrina signed in controversy. “I know nothing about
her place. that. My association was with Mattel
But what happened recently Company. They approached me and I
at a popular fashion week took it up. As far as Aishwarya Rai is
th o ught in Mumbai has blown the concerned she is a talented actress

ly d
real d crosse as
situation out of control. It was and is an iconic figure not only in
“A s h the opening day at the Lakme India but all over the world. I respect
t r i n a ha ime. It w to Fashion Week in Mumbai Aishwarya for what she is,” Katrina
Ka t t
i n e this al of Ka where 50 years of Barbie were waxed eloquence.
the l fession mething

being celebrated. ‘Dress the The truth is that the Bachchan bahu
o o
unpr e done s is”
Barbie’ contest attracted 75 was approached by the organisers to
entries from top designers in be the Indian face of Barbie. Over a
hav like th the country from which the week was spent in discussions with
20 short listed creations were the actress. She had demanded a
showcased on the ramp at certain sum as remuneration, which
the dazzling show. Amidst the was agreed upon. Ash was very
pretty, frothy party dresses and excited because this was something
26 Stardust May 2009

Katrina in the
t
wen y,
controversial Barbie outfit
l l y
i n a re Usuall
a
r . to
“Kat her way g time e
f on sh
out o akes a l is time, g in
t
she e but th verythin ear,
d
deci ped up e hat we hfor
w
wrapy. From ven ask ”
e n
a da didn’t neratio
she y remu
an
n
new and she was looking forward to it
ssince a long time.
But just a day prior to her Barbie look
b
being unveiled before the audience,
sshe was in for a rude shock when she
w
was told that she had been replaced
b
by none other than Katrina. The ex-
M
Miss World was aghast to say the least.
S
She was furious at the organisers for
ditching her at the last minute. But
d
sshe was more upset with Katrina for
agreeing to be a part of something that
a
was already committed to her. “Ash
w
rreally thought Katrina had crossed the
lline this time,” says a designer. “It was
uunprofessional of Kat to have done
ssomething like this,” adds the source.
Adding pandemonium to the murky
episode
e were the allegations against
Katrina
K concerning how she went
abouta grabbing the Barbie role from
Ash. A An official from the fashion week
reveals,
r “Katrina really went out of her
way. w Usually, she takes a long time
to t decide but this time, she wrapped
up u everything in a day. From what
we w hear, she didn’t even ask for any
r
remuneration. She just wanted to do it
and a she single-mindedly went towards
a
achieving that goal. Contracts were
c
changed at the last minute and Ash
was w dropped.”
The predicament engulfing the two
p
preening divas is bound to acquire
c
chaotic proportions in the days to
come.c Aishwarya seems to be straining
at a the leash right now but it won’t take
much m for the ravishing Scorpio to hit
back b at her drop-dead-gorgeous rival
with w a chilling vengeance. The
k
knives are out and let’s see
who w emerges successor in the
s
second round.
28
“Her In-Laws Were
MALLIKA’S
Marital Past
Against Films” THEY SAY the past
always comes back to
haunt you. And
somehow, it happens
more often with the
denizens of the glamour
world. In this industry,
once you’re in the
spotlight, you want to
start on a clean slate.
You want to wipe clean
your unpleasant history,
if you have any. But the
harder you try, the
sooner the tumultuous
times come back to
catch up with you.
Finally Exposed
The most controversial heroine in Bollywood, Mallika neral of her grandmother. We didn’t see Mallika at that time
Sherawat, has until now managed to remain an enigma to also. But we got to know that after being a star, she came
all her fans. She may be the industry’s most desirable pin-up to Hissar twice to resolve her property matter pending in the
girl and yet no one really knows what lies beneath her allur- court. A conflict is going on between the Lambas and P.K.
ing persona. Sure, everyone knows that her name used to Choudhary (BJP leader and brother-in-law of Vasundhara Raje
be Reema Lamba once upon a time. There have been fleet- Scindia) regarding a property in Shekhpura village. We saw
ing references to her marriage too – and that she is divorced. her along with her brother, Vikram Lamba, during the court
But that’s about it. Neither has Mallika spoken much about case. And before that, in 2007, her parents came to Hissar
that phase of her life nor has her ex-husband tried to grab for the Jat Mahasabha elections.”
his share of fame in her glory. Perhaps that’s why this chap- The ‘Lamba House’ is a multi-storey haveli where Mallika’s
ter of her life has gone completely unnoticed. grandparents used to reside along with their four children:
But there are questions that still seek their legitimate Mukesh Lamba (eldest son), Dinesh Lamba, Ramesh Lamba,
answers. Why is Mallika so guarded about her past? Why and Suresh Lamba. Mukesh Lamba is Mallika’s father.
does she refuse to acknowledge her ex-
husband Karan Singh Gill in public? What is “Reema (Mallika) married Karan because she was
the truth behind her whirlwind marriage and in love with him but married life wasn’t made for
subsequent divorce? What was Mallika like
as a daughter-in-law? And does she have a
her. From her own parents to her in-laws, every-
hidden child somewhere, as some reports body was against her decision and as a result, she
have hinted at? had a major argument with all of them”
To unravel the mystery, I decided to travel – Sushil Lamba, Mallika’s uncle
to the remote village Mallika hails from – Moth
in Hissar, Haryana. It’s a five-and-a-half hours drive from New This small town jatni always dreamt of making it big. I met
Delhi and reaching there itself seemed like an arduous task. one of her uncles, Sushil Lamba, who spoke about her at
Though Mallika spent most of her growing-up years in Rohtak, length. “Since her childhood, Reema was very exuberant,
Moth is where a part of her family still resides. Her grand- extroverted and ambitious,” he said. “She had a willingness
parents (paternal) were landlords and they still have huge to do something different from the usual small-town girls.
properties in the village. The palatial ‘Lamba House’ in the Always ready to explore the new world, she had a wish to
suburb of Hissar is still famous amongst the villagers for its work for the glamour industry. Initially, it was very difficult for
sheer opulence. But after Reema Lamba became Mallika us to allow her to initiate a career in the glamour industry.
Sherawat, nobody has ever seen her in the house. But later on, with the support of her parents, she did model-
I spoke to a local who happened to be one of Mallika’s ling and then worked for many advertising agencies. She was
closest neighbours at one time and he said, “Why would she very active and knew what exactly she wanted to do. For
come to the village? These days, we only see her in news- instance, when Reema was 15 years old, she wanted to meet
papers. She’s become a big star now.” Another villager re- the then Deputy Prime Minister of India, Choudhary Devi Lal.
veals, “Six months ago, we saw her parents during the fu- I introduced her to him and she took his full interview in the
midst of a crowd and everybody was astonished
... with Jackie Chan
by her daring attitude.”
Her uncle was able to reveal a bit more about
her childhood than the villagers. Lamba added,
“Reema was about seven when her father was
transferred to Delhi in 1983. She studied at the
Delhi Public School, Mathura Road, from class
third to the twelfth.” Mallika must have left some
impression on the teachers, for they still remember
her as a flamboyant, bold, sharp and outspoken
girl. She is probably also far more intelligent than
most people make her out to be, as she went on
to graduate from one of India’s top universities.
“After schooling she moved on to Miranda House
in Delhi University and earned a degree in
philosophy. It is the same college from where
renowned directors like Nandita Das and Mira
Nair completed their masters. It was during this
time that she worked briefly as an airhostess for
Kazakistan Airlines and used to fly between India
and Kazakistan. And it was during this period she

met Karan Singh Gill who was working as
a pilot captain in Jet Airways in Delhi,” reveals
her uncle. He further reminisces, “As their
friendship started brewing, the lovebirds
decided to marry soon. It was a love-cum-
arranged marriage and everybody from
both sides of the family were present
there at the wedding. It was a grand
reception in Delhi.”
Reema was certainly setting high stan-
dards for herself. But there was one obstacle
in her life – her husband Karan and his con-
servative family. “Reema wasn’t the kind of
girl who wanted to compromise with her
priorities and change her life simply for mar-
riage. She always had a thought of becoming
rich and famous. She married Gill because
she was in love with him but married life
wasn’t made for her. So, she decided to quit
wedlock and lead an independent lifestyle. ... with Dharmendra
From her own parents to her in-laws, every-

body was against her decision and as a result, she had a been asked to respect our elders, not to fight with them.”
major argument with all of them. When she went to Mumbai, Either way, Mallika choosing a glamorous career over love
she knew nobody was there to help her. But she made up entered Bollywood, albeit with tons of emotional baggage
her mind to get out of the rut and at least try once. It was that she had to keep secret to make it in the industry. But it
tough and heart-breaking,” states Lamba. wasn’t long before the news of her marriage made headlines.
Taking charge of her life, the wannabe diva decided to In fact, rumour mills reported that she’d been married more
begin a new life. Even though a bit presumptuous, she named than once. By now, Mallika has learnt that nothing ever re-
herself Mallika (meaning Queen). But why did she feel the mains a secret in B-town – here, even the walls have ears
need to change her second name? As Lamba clarifies, “It – but back then, probably not.
was purely her wish. Sherawat was her mother’s maiden The problems between Mallika and her in-laws began soon
after the marriage. Lamba gives us an
“We don’t know anybody named Mallika. A few years insight, “You know, destiny had other
back, we had a girl in our family called Reema Lamba. plans for Reema. Like her own parents,
Gill’s parents were also orthodox. As we
She was my daughter-in-law and we all loved her very have heard, her in-laws were not inter-
much. But, afterwards, her behaviour and independent ested in sending their girl into films and
nature started creating problems for us” they were completely against her late
– Mrs. G. S. Gill (Mallika’s ex-mother-in-law) nights and parties. As a result, tension
started brewing between Reema and
name so she kept it to thank her mother who supported her Karan. This might be the reason for their break-up. Maybe
to become a star. Her mother, Santosh and brother Vikram her in-laws were not in favour of her working in films. The
predominantly admired her vision.” marriage worked for almost a year and finally their romance
But other locals have another tale to tell. “Reema had ended in gloom. The couple soon realised that it was better
changed her name only to hide her origins in Bollywood,” to get separated. It was after the divorce that she decided
says one of them. “She doesn’t want to give anyone a chance to try her luck in movies,” says Lamba.
to laugh at her. On the contrary, Reema’s father and her What about certain reports that she also has a hidden
relatives were very disappointed with her decision to work child? Her uncle refutes the allegation, “She doesn’t have
in the glamour industry and then marrying Karan Singh Gill. any kid. She was so sure about her vision that she didn’t
Her father did not like her decision, so he left her to do take any chances. In spite of many oppositions and hurdles,
whatever she wanted to do.” she went to Mumbai in 2002 to pursue her dream in Bolly-
Parull Gossain (Mallika’s spokesperson), however, refutes wood,” he says.
all these allegations saying, “It’s all rubbish. Why would she Once in the city of dreams, Mallika always introduced herself
strain her relationship with her father? She never had an as a single woman. And that has been the way ever since. Her
argument with him. Why would she use her father’s name father, Mukesh Lamba, was a simple man. The only thing he
to get such publicity? She does not have any grudges against ever wanted was to have a happily married life for his daughter.
anyone in her family. In a country like India, we have always But she is always been heard saying that she belonged to

a poor family and has never been married. Her distraught tention to her because she looked so ugly then. At that time,
uncle no longer knows what to say in response: “I can’t I didn’t have a clue that one day she would become such a
comment on this. In Mumbai, whatever she was asked to do, big star.”
she did it. I have also read about such things in the newspapers And with fame came Mallika’s sex-kitten status. According
but we are not comfortable with it. It is completely her choice to her own admission, she needs a tough guy to handle her.
that she always introduces herself as a single woman and The latest buzz is that she is maintaining her proximity with
prefers to keep silent on her marital life.” a new man in her life who is supposedly a firang. Their rela-
tionship apparently developed
“Reema’s (Mallika) in-laws were completely against her over a course of time. It has also
late nights and parties. As a result, tension started brewing been heard that she is in Los
Angeles these days roaming
between Reema and Karan. This might be the reason for around with the same guy and
their break-up. The marriage worked for almost a year and simultaneously trying to remain
finally their romance ended in gloom” tight-lipped about the rumours in
– Sushil Lamba India. She apparently wants to
keep the fling a secret.
But what is her in-laws’ reaction to all the fame and fortune Her uncle tries to justify Mallika’s lifestyle choices. “You
that Mallika has amassed? When we ask Lamba, he gets should better understand today’s world. Things are moving
flustered again and concludes the conversation midway faster day by day. Whatever she’s been asked to do in Mum-
saying, “I can’t talk about this. But I must say her in-laws bai, she did it. Today’s lifestyle is completely different than
were very sweet to her. But unknowingly, everything got our time. If you want to achieve success, you have to explore
shattered. Almost a year back I saw her estranged in-laws yourself by all means. That is what Reema is doing and we
at the Gurgaon Golf Club.” have no grievances.”
To get the real picture, I finally tracked down Mallika’s It is truly interesting how each person who knows or knew
estranged mother-in-law, Mrs. G. S. Gill. When asked about Mallika intimately, views her in a completely different way.
the actress, she commented vociferously, “We don’t know For instance, for her ex-husband, Mallika may be a thing of
anybody named Mallika. A few years back, we had a girl in the past meant to be stored in the deepest recesses of his
our family called Reema Lamba. She was my daughter-in-law mind. Her parents and relatives still see her as their little
and we all loved her very much. But, afterwards, her daughter fighting out on her own. A local photographer who
behaviour and independent nature started creating problems often clicked her in her struggling days told me, “She used to
for us. We wanted a girl who was independent in her thoughts be a very simple and innocent girl but very camera-friendly.
but at the same time, someone who understood the needs Every time she would give proper shoots and make us happy.
of the family also. But her dream was something different She was very professional and passionate about her work
from what we expected. She and that is the most impressive
wanted to have a career in part of her personality. But on the
the glamour industry.” Before I issue of marriage, she generally
could ask about Karan, she preferred to keep silent.”
abruptly ended the conversation. For most people who read this,
Reportedly, Karan is now remarried Mallika’s past may come as a
and doesn’t like to talk about revelation. She may have her own
Mallika at all. reasons for not acknowledging her
Nonetheless, one thing’s for sure marital status. Maybe if she’d
– Mallika did not receive stardom done that earlier, none of this
on a silver platter. More often than would’ve sounded so shocking.
not, she found herself being re- But from her point of view, here
jected, even by small-timers. Says was a married woman from a
Ramesh Juglan (director of Hary- small town, without any godfather,
anvi films), who still remembers trying her luck in movies. Would
Sherawat as Reema Gill, “I don’t the industry have given her a
remember the exact year when chance if they knew about her
Reema came with her photographs marital status? We don’t think so.
at my office asking for a role in Today, she’s carved a position for
some Haryanvi film. But I must say herself so no one’s complaining or
she was quite eager to work in raising eyebrows. It’s Mallika’s
films. She left a cd of her photo- turn to take charge now – she’s
graphs requesting me to have a seen a lot already.
look at it once. I didn’t pay any at- ... with Rahul Bose Preeti Puja

BLOW
BLOW
Hrithik Battles The Barbara

In a competitive and cut-throat industry, it’s encountering right now is far severe in magnitude. Perhaps
seemingly impossible for any star to escape the burden the only way he can tackle it is by lying low, which is what
of controversies and scandals that somehow seem to he’s doing.
come hand in hand with fame and fortune. The mightiest Hrithik’s forthcoming film, ‘Kites’, has been in news ever
of celebrities have fallen prey to this syndrome and the since it was launched. Initially, it was just supposed to be an-
reason is simple – along with the fans and well wishers other production from Rakesh Roshan’s Film Kraft. But as the
come your own share of detractors. The bigger the star, script progressed, the film became bigger in size. It elevated
the bigger the scandal. And though someone like Hrithik to a different league when Big Pictures paid the highest price
Roshan has faced such a situation before, what he’s ever in film history – Rs 125 crores and bought the film over.

Mori Romance Rumours
43
PHOTOGRAPH: MAHENDER SONI
For Rakesh Roshan, ‘Kites’ is more out a body double. With every
than just a profitable venture on working day that passed, their
paper. The filmmaker believes that chemistry became better with
this is one film that could take Hrithik each other. And you could see that
into mainstream commercial Holly- off screen too.”
wood. For that reason, Big Pictures Over the last two months, the
will be releasing two different ver- shooting of ‘Kites’ was on full
sions of the film – one for the global swing in Mumbai. One often saw
market and one for India. If Hrithik Hrithik and Barbara spending a lot
succeeds in garnering any attention of time with each other, even when
in the West, it’ll be a whole new they were not shooting. In between
beginning for the actor. shots, they would chat at leisure in
That’s why everyone associated their make-up vans. Outsiders
with the film is making headlines were not allowed on the sets but
and that includes the lead heroine, the news of their friendship soon
the Mexican beauty Barbara Mori. became a subject of discussion.
When Barbara was signed for such This was when one first heard the
a gargantuan project, everyone buzz of their alleged romance.
wondered who she was. Not much A member of the crew informs
is known about her even now. Bar- us, “Barbara cannot speak Hindi at
bara was a small-time model in all. And the problem was that most
Mexico when she met a local actor, of the technicians weren’t fluent
Sergio Mayer, and they fell in love. in English, including director
They never got married but had a Anurag Basu. Communication was
child soon enough. Barbara pursued sometimes a major hassle. So it
her acting dreams and soon landed was Hrithik who decided to play
Barbara Mori
up with a part in a television series. the role of a mediator. Even when
Around that time, she separated from Sergio even while her he was not required on the sets, he would be present so that
career was on the upswing. In 2005, she had a massive there was no delay due to miscommunication. There were
blockbuster to her credit. so many times when Anurag would convey his thoughts to
While finalising the lead actress for Kites, Rakesh Roshan Barbara with Hrithik acting as the interpreter.”
knew exactly what he wanted. The girl had to have an inter- Another time the industry was abuzz with the Barbara-
national profile but at the same time, she needed to look Hrithik scandal talk was when eyewitnesses saw the couple
comfortable with the Indian audience too – that’s why he at Amby Valley, a private retreat almost three hours drive
went looking for faces in Spain and Mexico. Among all the from Mumbai. A close friend of the actor finally puts to rest
girls he auditioned, he found Barbara to be the best bet. Hrithik the speculation. “There was a time when the unit had taken
agreed – his father couldn’t have been more correct. a break. Barbara’s sister had come down and Barbara
wanted to take her family to some quiet and peaceful place
rithik got to know Barbara better when she came for a short holiday. Hrithik suggested Amby Valley. He only
down to India for the extensive shooting schedule. accompanied them till there because Barbara and her fam-
He almost lay down the red carpet for her. A ily have no clue about the city and its outskirts. He played
special vanity van was designed for Barbara, the role of a gracious host.”
keeping her needs in mind. Hrithik paid personal attention The whispers kept getting louder with each passing day.
to the service apartment that was arranged by the Roshans “Hrithik and Barbara have often gone out for dinners and
for Barbara to stay, along with her son and family. When Suzanne has been there too,” says an actor friend of the
Barbara landed in Mumbai, she was overwhelmed with all couple. Eyebrows were also raised when Hrithik had an ac-
the comforts. That’s how the friendship between her and cident on the sets of the film and he had to be admitted to
Hrithik took off. a nearby hospital. When the media reached there, they only
The film has been shot in exotic locations like New Mexi- saw Barbara by his side. There was no sign of Suzanne any-
co, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and the Maldives. Barbara behaved where around. “That’s because Barbara was with him when
like a true-blue professional; she delivered whatever was he was doing that shot. When the glass pierced his hand,
expected of her. Like a source from the unit tells us, “Bar- she was in a state of shock. She insisted on coming along
bara has worked with a lot of actors before but she was with him to the hospital. Suzanne was not in the vicinity so
thoroughly impressed with Hrithik’s dedication. She even she took a while to get there,” states the friend.
told him that. When they were shooting in New Mexico, There is no denying that Hrithik has become extremely
Hrithik did a few action scenes that took everyone’s breath close to Barbara’s family as well, especially her son Sergio.
away. She couldn’t believe it that he was doing all this with- Our source adds, “But that’s mainly because Hrithik is aware

that the family doesn’t know anybody in Mumbai. Rakesh left for South Africa to do an ad film, something happened
Roshan has deliberately kept her away from the media. When between them with relation to Barbara. A couple of days
the film is ready, he’ll introduce her to the Indian audiences later, when the actor was still out of the country, Suzanne
and the media with a huge launch. But right now, she’s not moved out of the house with bag, baggage and the kids.
allowed to go out anywhere by herself. That’s why Hrithik A source informs us, “Hrithik was shattered when he heard
gives her company. He spends a lot of time playing video that Suzanne had left him. The night he came back to town,
games with her son.” he went straight to his in-laws’ house. They sorted out their
One of the stories doing the rounds is that Suzanne hasn’t differences and he even spent the night there. For the sake
taken too kindly to this growing bond between her husband of each other and the kids, they decided to give each other
and Barbara. According to hearsay, the couple has been another chance.”
having frequent fights over this issue. Sometime back, when
Hrithik didn’t turn up for an awards function after committing ut by then, the news of their impending split
his presence, Barbara had to shoulder the blame. Rumours was already out. Even though the couple in-
insisted that Hrithik and Suzanne had a major argument at dulged in some damage control the next day,
home just when he was about to leave. An angry Hrithik industry folk were already discussing the impli-
simply decided to skip the event. Barbara was supposed to cations of this break-up. “Suddenly, the Barbara
come along with him; she too cancelled. But the actor’s issue has become much bigger than one imagined,” says
loyalists maintain a different version. As one of them says, one of the actor’s co-stars. “Hrithik and Suzanne may have
“The awards ceremony took place when the final schedule patched up for now but if they have done this to keep a
of ‘Kites’ was wrapping up. Hrithik had clearly told the orga- scandal at bay, how long will it last?”
nizers that he would only come if he finished on time. But At this time, though, Hrithik is trying his best to douse
the shoot extended well after the controversy. As he says, “It
... with wife Suzanne
midnight. There was no way he is too funny! Suzanne has
could leave early as a major shifted to her parents’ place
chunk had to be finished. The with the kids two days ago and
whole unit was present at the I was to join her on my return
studio that night and they had as there is a white ant treat-
to complete a very important ment going on in my house
scene. If what people say is and a section of my floor is
true, why did Hrithik and Su- being renovated.”
zanne attend so many public Meanwhile, another version
events after a couple of days that’s doing the rounds hints at
later? That happened because vested interests behind this
the shooting was over,” he whole drama. Like a well known
stresses. producer puts it, “There are
Once the shooting portion in people who have invested
Mumbai was complete, Hrithik heavily in the film. Other than
and Suzanne took off to an Hrithik, there is no other big
undisclosed destination for a name in the film. The idea could
much-needed vacation. Ac- be to add some spice to the
cording to many, this was kind film by spreading tales about
of a make-up trip for the actor. His actor friend laughs when the Hrithik-Barbara romance. At least they will succeed in
we mention this to him. “They haven’t taken any time off for making Barbara a household name by linking her with Hrithik.
almost four months now. More than Suzanne, it was Hrithik It could be a calculated move and when such things happen,
who needed a break. In fact, he had made this plan with the poor actors are the ones who suffer the most.”
some other friends who were supposed to join them too. We If this is true, these people have been successful to some
had all discussed this holiday when we were in Goa celebrat- extent. Already viewers are curious to see the so-called siz-
ing Farah Khan (Sanjay Khan’s daughter and Suzanne’s sister) zling chemistry between Hrithik and Barbara on screen. Plus,
and her Aqeel’s wedding celebrations. At the last minute, news has already been leaked out that they’ve done some
the others dropped out so Hrithik and Suzanne went on their really intimate scenes in the movie – hotter than anything
own,” he clarifies. you’ve seen on Indian screen before. So this gamble may
However, the rumours refuse to die down and as the film just pay off.
gets ready for release, the buzz is only getting stronger. The Hrithik-Barbara-Suzanne triangle is the most discussed
Earlier this month, it was reported that Suzanne had walked topic in the film industry right now. Knowing the actor,
out of Hrithik’s house and shifted into her parents’ residence. he will retaliate only when he feels matters have gone
The story goes like this: After their vacation, things were out of hand. This battle has just become personal and
fine between the couple for a while. Then just before Hrithik he knows best how to fight it.

D ear Asin,
&
I’ve been a huge admirer of your work. I feel you
are a good role model
for all the young girls.
However, recently I
D ear Akshay,
Just because you are now
read a report saying that in a league of your own, it
you endorse a fairness doesn’t mean that you should
cream. Considering throw tantrums. Recently,
it’s not a good idea to I read a report somewhere
promote fairness in a that when you were shooting
country like India, why on the outskirts of Mumbai,
have you taken on this you insisted on traveling by a helicopter. It cost the
brand? Don’t you think poor producer Rs 75000 for every trip but he had to bear
it will show you in a the expense because you threatened to not attend the
poor light towards your shooting. Is this true?
fans? Ravi Divecha (Pune)
Nikhila Sahani (Mumbai)
AKSHAY KUMAR:
ASIN: I have been First of all, I consider myself just like any other actor;
endorsing this brand for a while now. For me, I don’t belong to any league as such. Secondly, it’s
the brand has always stood for natural beauty. totally untrue that I insisted on a helicopter. There
Fairness creams are a beauty need was some urgent dubbing to be done
along with a healthy lifestyle, exercise for my new film and we didn’t have
and a good diet. They protect your any time. That’s why the producer
skin from pollution and the sun. That’s insisted on sending me a chopper.
where I feel such creams come in handy. All the other times, I have been
In fact, I have myself been using the traveling in my car. Don’t believe
cream in my growing-up years. everything you read.
D ear Kareena,
You surely know where your
KAREENA KAPOOR:
Arre baba, who has
priorities lie. You made told you all this? This
your displeasure public is all rubbish. Sure, I
when your boyfriend Saif would’ve liked to be
Ali Khan signed Deepika a part of Saif’s first
Padukone for his home home production but
production. I heard that the role didn’t fit me.
he is working on his next I have no problems
production and you’ve with that. And there is
insisted on being a part of no second production
that project. How can you happening as yet. Saif
dictate terms to him like hasn’t even thought
that? How can you take a b o u t i t b e c au s e
him for granted? he’s busy with the
Reena Patel (Ahmedabad) first one.

D ear Aftab,
D ear Irrfan,
Once in a while, we get to see a performance
I’m curious to know what
were you thinking when you
signed a film like ‘Aloo Chat’.
that blows our minds. Something like that You’ve played one of the most
happened after seeing you in ‘Billu’. But the inconsequential characters
industry doesn’t one can imagine. One hears
seem to have that you’re now counting
recognised your on ‘Kambakkht Ishq’ and
talent, as you’re ‘Acid Factory’. But there are
still relegated to rumours that ‘Acid…’ has been stalled for a while, hasn’t it?
doing second- Abhishek Pandey (Indore)
lead roles. Is it
that you’re not AFTAB SHIVDASANI: To be honest, I’m doing films,
getting better which not only offer me enough scope to perform, but at the
roles? Or are you same time are also good as a package. I’m really looking
doing all these forward to ‘Kambakkht Ishq’
films merely because it has come out really
for commercial well. I’m sure the audiences
reasons? would love to watch Indian and
James H (Mumbai) Hollywood stars together on
screen for the first time. And
IRRFAN KHAN: that’s the USP of the film. ‘Acid
It’s not like I was ignored after my Factory’ has taken off again;
performances. On the contrary, films in fact we are almost through
like ‘Billu’ have now given me the choice with it. I just finished shooting
to do the films that I am excited about. for ‘Daddy Cool’ with Suniel
There’s no question of the industry not Shetty, Ashish Chowdhury and
recognising me when my audience does. Javed Jaffrey. It’s a laugh riot
So, far from being disillusioned, I’m and you are going to enjoy it. So
happy giving my best efforts to every things are happening for me at
film I do. the moment.
D ear Kangana,
We know you’re
KANGANA RANAUT:
I would like to clear these
rumours once and for all.
Firstly, it’s not true that I
one of the most am promoting Adhayayan.
successful heroines He doesn’t need a ny
in the industry. But promotion si nce he’s
that doesn’t mean that got an overwhelming
you should use your position response. Besides, we
to recommend your boyfriend don’t even have any
Adhyayan Suman to directors. We projects in hand with
hear that you agree to do a film the two of us in it.
only if he’s the hero. Isn’t that being Adhyayan is busy with
unprofessional? four films and I’m
Srikant Desai (Bangalore) working on three.

PHOTOGRAPHS: MUNNA S; HAIR AND MAKE-UP: MAHENDRA GUPTA; OUTFIT: RANNA GILL; SHOES BY: GUCCI
“Deepika Has Done A Film Down South But

ASIN
ON THE
T here’s something intriguing about watching an artist

at work. For one, there’s the obvious talent that
flows out from within and firmly entrenches itself on the concerned canvas. Then, there’s
the magnetism, which forbids you to look away, even if you want to. And you definitely don’t
want to when the person concerned is Asin, star extraordinaire down South (she’s never
delivered a single flop in her career so far) and currently amongst the newest and brightest
luminaries to have lit up Bollywood.
Wasn’t She Also Hailed As A Newcomer?”

First up, she dispels the myth that actors always make you not my ambition to be in the number one spot or maintain it. I’d
wait by turning up on the dot for our early morning shoot. rather wait for the right projects and be a part of things I know
Well, she definitely wins brownie points for professionalism. I’ll like being a part of and work with people I’ll enjoy working
And her ease in front of the camera is evident as she expertly with. Rather than pick anything and everything that comes my
poses and expresses herself for the lenses. Beautiful, talented, way, which a lot of people do when they see success, I prefer to
approachable, easy-going and fun to talk to (despite being wait. Sometimes, insecurities creep in, especially in this industry
extremely politically correct); she completely illustrates the and people do advise you that ‘out of sight is out of mind’ but I
fact that, at the end of the day, actors are also regular people; consider that rubbish. I’d rather not be a part of a movie that I
just like you and me. don’t want to be a part of just for being in sight.” And what about
With ‘Ghajini’ she made the perfect crossover and what can the rumours of her being part of the much-awaited Yashraj film
technically be termed as a full-fledged debut in Bollywood that with Shah Rukh Khan? “Those are just rumours”, she grins.
many dream of, and few achieve. With the country’s biggest Asin is hugely talented and has made a splashy debut that
superstar Aamir Khan, to romance on-screen, a strong script has made people sit up and notice. However, one can’t help
and all the ingredients of a requisite masala Bollywood flick, but think that the hype surrounding her is not as big as say a
Asin had everything going for her. And work it she did! Even Deepika Padukone or Sonam Kapoor who’ve also made glitzy
though a few critics lambasted her for what they considered debuts and then swiftly moved into what many consider the
was a loud and over-the-top performance, the ones who matter elite A-list of Bollywood. Does she feel she’s being meted
have welcomed her with open arms. out step-motherly treatment because she doesn’t have filmi
She’s also made a killing this awards season, winning all the connections? “I’m not even aware that there is such a league
major debut awards, including the Max Stardust Superstar of existing. Honestly, it’s something I’d rather not comment upon
Tomorrow honour. And in the process, ruffled a few feathers as I hardly know about this”, she maintains a political stance.
(but more of that later). What has the actress palpably excited One of the best ways to announce, ‘here I am, look at me’
for now is her upcoming project ‘London Dreams’. Helmed by is by signing movies with big banners. So where are all the
I’ve heard that Salman was apparently so taken up with me that

he’d given me a gift for Onam and I’d given him a return gift
for Eid. We were all travelling and shooting on these days and
nobody had time to buy any gifts even if they wanted to
Vipul Shah, the grand project has her paired opposite Salman big production houses that should be queuing up outside her
Khan and Ajay Devgan. “I would call ‘London Dreams’ my house to woo her? “Well, there is an Asthavinayak project in
actual first Bollywood movie,” says Asin. “I say that because the pipeline but I always wait for the production house to make
the entire cast and crew is from Bollywood. ‘Ghajini’ felt like the official announcement first,” she succinctly tells me. Asin
a 90 percent south Indian movie, not just because it was a does seem way wiser than her 20-something years. She may
remake but because most of the people working on it were be just one-film-old in Bollywood, but she’s a seasoned star
mostly from down South. The atmosphere on the set was that otherwise and that’s pretty obvious with the way she holds her
of a south Indian film and sometimes Aamir felt a little left out. own and calmly fields all sorts of questions.
So I would act as the interpreter and it was fun. We’re almost Asin’s gone on record saying she’s quite averse to kissing
done shooting ‘London Dreams’ and are planning to release scenes and exposing. Sounds a tad old school in these times
sometime in August. It’s a musical and has fabulous music by where everyone is jumping on the ‘skin is in’ bandwagon
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. I had the best experience in my entire and kissing on-screen is no longer a prerogative of the West.
career doing this movie,” she gushes. Doesn’t she feel it’ll cause a hindrance in her nascent career?
Next on cards is a multi-lingual, ‘The 19th Step’, which is a Or is this another perfunctory in building a demure and girl-
Walt Disney production directed by Bharath Bala along with next-door image? She very emphatically states, “It’s definitely
Kamal Haasan and Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano. Recently, not an image-building exercise for sure. It might be prevalent
there were stories circulating that Manjaree Fadnis had in Bollywood but I’m somebody who’s totally out of it. I’m not
replaced Asin in a Walt Disney production. She clears the air, comfortable doing that. And I think when you’re not comfortable,
“That’s another Walt Disney production, which I was offered it affects the performance. What I had said was that I wouldn’t
but I didn’t take up.” be comfortable with films that are overtly sexual or sex-based.”
Apparently, big as it is, in these times of recession, it seems So if any film-makers want to offer her a ‘Jism’ for instance, that
that ‘London Dreams’ is having a problem being sold. Is she would be a loud and clear no!
affected by this? “Not that I am aware of. I don’t really think there I can’t help but ask what has become of her career down
is any such problem,” she avers diplomatically. Well, considering South. Considering that’s the industry which launched her,
she’s clearly touted as the next big successor to the Bollywood has she turned her back to it now that she’s a big Bollywood
throne, why isn’t she signing any big banner projects and making star? “I haven’t signed any South Indian projects even though
hay while the sun shines? Is it a good strategy to just bank on I’ve had tons of offers. I was born as an actor there; that’s my
one big commercial movie? She elucidates, “I look at things I like parent industry. Just as a kid can’t abandon his mother, I would
to do. It’s not about calculated moves or strategies with me. It’s never say no to any project from down South. I don’t want to
50
be repetitive. I have done a handful of projects down South. If parties. Quite akin to the ubiquitous heroine’s mother. Is she
something really different and exciting that would awaken my starting a new trend of the heroine’s father? Reports suggested
interest comes along, I would definitely consider it.” that Vipul Shah was quite irked by his constant presence on the
So has she completely migrated to Bollywood now? sets of ‘London Dreams’. “Vipul and dad are like best friends;
Considering she’s also bought a flat in Mumbai, is she ready it’s utter rubbish. Besides, my dad’s not there as my dad, but
to shift base permanently to the city of dreams? She promptly as my manager. I don’t have any manager in Bollywood, and
refutes it saying, “I don’t think I’ve migrated actually. ‘Ghajini’, I’ve never had one in my career. He takes care of my dates and
‘London Dreams’ and all my endorsements, which are national endorsements and that’s his job at the moment. He’s left his
endorsements, were all happening in Mumbai so it made sense business and taken up this job. Just like any other Bollywood
for me to have a place here rather than live out of suitcases or celebrity would have their manager tagging along, my dad
in hotels and shuttle between cities.” comes and sits. It’s not like he’s there for 24 hours. He’s just
It seems as if her producers down South are quite upset with there to make sure things are well organised. He’s not there
this move as they feel she has deserted them for the popularly to baby-sit a daughter the way it’s made out in the press. He’s
sought after pastures of Bollywood. Have any of them made just doing his job. At least they’re writing about my father and
their displeasure felt with this move (literal and otherwise) of not making up some imaginary boyfriend”, she jokes. I’m fully
hers? She ponders a while before answering, “Upset? I don’t prepared to believe her as her father just turned up for a while
think so. That’s the first time I’m hearing this. But I have heard to make sure our shoot was well organised and then left us
about rumours about me having migrated and in a sense that’s alone for the day.
true. It’s not a conscious migration saying I’m avoiding South But matters took an interesting turn when a tabloid reported
Indian films. But all my work commitments at this point of time that her co-star, the capricious Salman Khan even went up to
are based in Mumbai.” her father and told him that his presence on the sets doesn’t
We move on to a slightly delicate topic – her father. He is
present with Asin wherever she goes; be it shooting, events or
51
‘Ghajini’ felt like a 90 percent South Indian movie.
The atmosphere on the set was that of a south Indian
film and sometimes Aamir felt a little left out
OUTFIT: PEACOCK FOREVER
mean that he could prevent him from flirting with Asin. Sounds and each person has his personal opinion. I don’t really
pretty filmi, doesn’t it? She quickly retorts, “I think that was want to get into that. Obviously I have something to say
the cheapest the press could come up with. It obviously but I don’t want to say it.” All my efforts in convincing
didn’t happen.” So she’s on good terms with Salman? “Of her that it’s cathartic to say what’s on your mind are
course I am. I had the best time ever on ‘London Dreams’. greeted by peals of laughter. However, she does relent
It was a great team to work with and we were one big gang enough to explain that, “Best debutante awards are
having a great time.” And what about all those alleged cold for a first-time performance in a particular industry.
vibes with Ajay Devgan who’s not exactly known for being Obviously, the fact that it is the biggest Bollywood
Mr. Congeniality? She rolls her eyes, but patiently obliges me. grosser of all times and that Aamir Khan was a part of
“Ajay’s such a sweetheart. He’s the prankster on the set. He’s the movie helped.”
the entertainment channel on the sets and comes up with And since we’ve opened the Pandora’s box that goes
these one-liners and jokes, especially when you least expect by the name of Aamir Khan, it’s but obvious to ask how
it. He taught me a lot of tongue twisters and so did I and we her status with Aamir is after the multi-record breaking
used to have tongue-twisting competitions on the set and it ‘Ghajini’? Are they still in touch? “We’re in touch on and
was a lot of fun. That’s why it’s really weird when stuff like off. But not on a regular basis”, she states succinctly.
this comes up. I really don’t understand what kind of a press And speaking of ‘Ghajini’, how are things between her
thing is behind this. But that Salman thing was really cheap. If and her supposed nemesis, Jiah Khan? “It’s a norm
people really believe that he’s capable of something like this, that’s happening. If two actresses act together in a
then they’re really putting him down.” movie, people just start writing about how they can’t get
When it comes to Salman, I can’t possibly not discuss his along and fight constantly. Considering we didn’t have
much-talked about Casanova status and ask her if he tried any scenes together, it was very illogical to conclude
to woo her with his charm but she beats me to the question. that we were fighting on the sets as we were hardly
“I’ve heard that he was apparently so taken up with me that on the sets together. We have a very good relationship
he’d given me a gift for Onam and I’d given him a return gift going on which the press is trying very hard and failing
for Eid. We were all travelling and shooting on these days and to spoil.”
(On Mugdha Godse’s comment that Asin wasn’t qualified

for best debutante awards): “Each person has his personal
opinion. I don’t really want to get into that. Obviously I have
something to say but I don’t want to say it
nobody had time to buy any gifts even if they wanted to. The So does she believe that two actresses can be
whole unit burst out laughing when we heard of these reports friends? “Definitely. At least from my side I think so. I’ve
on the sets. But I didn’t find it as funny at that point of time hardly met many people here though. After ‘Ghajini’,
as I wasn’t used to Bollywood press. Now I’ve started to have everyone has been very kind to me. Preity Zinta very
a good laugh over such things as well. I’ve actually devised sweetly gave me a warm welcome to Bollywood.
a chemical formula – less reaction equals more comfort. And Sush (Sushmita Sen) hugged me and had really
I’ve become like a lotus leaf where water just slips off,” she nice things to say. Amitji (Amitabh Bachchan) also
excitedly reveals. complimented me and it’s been very nice and warm of
But it seems Salman’s fascination with Asin was serious them to do that.”
enough to make girlfriend Katrina Kaif turn up on the sets Asin hasn’t been a permanent fixture in Bollywood
in Chandigarh to keep an eye on him. “Salman’s a great co- for long and already the girl is courting controversies.
star and an absolutely charming person to work with. I’ve met It seems that stylists and make-up artistes working on
Katrina and we were on the same flight and in the same hotel ‘London Dreams’ and otherwise aren’t too happy with
at Chandigarh. But she was there for her personal religious her way of functioning as they feel she does her own
reasons, which she’s clarified in the press. But she’s never thing as opposed to listening to them and is behaving
been on the sets of ‘London Dreams’. It’s such a joke.” like quite a diva. Asin eagerly breaks in exclaiming,
Asin has wowed many critics and audiences with her “Isn’t that so much publicity for ‘London Dreams’? I
portrayal of Kalpana in ‘Ghajini’. And the plethora of awards think that’s the way it functions also. I’m still trying to
she’s garnered this season is testimony to that. However, figure out if it’s a publicity thing or not.” Getting serious
her contemporaries aren’t exactly rushing to heap her with she adds, “You’ve seen me here. I just sit like a dummy.
praises. And one of them is Mugdha Godse. The ‘Fashion’ And whoever wants to work on me, make-up artistes
actress was quite upset and felt it wasn’t fair she win the and all, I completely trust them. Finally, on any set, and
best newcomer awards as she’s done many South Indian especially on ‘London Dreams’ set it is the director
films. Asin quickly counters that with a, “In that case, who’s the captain of the ship. He’s the one who’s
Deepika Padukone has done a film down South but wasn’t hired all these people. And he’s the person who has
she also hailed and celebrated as a newcomer?” And just as to decide whether he’s happy with their work or not.
immediately the diplomatic side takes over as she further And if he’s not, then I don’t know why unnecessarily
states, “Well, anyways, no comments about that matter at all people have to blame me. Vipul himself came up with

Vipul Shah is the one who’s hired all these people. And
he’s the person who has to decide whether he’s happy with
their work or not. And if he’s not, then I don’t know why
unnecessarily people have to blame me. I’m not a diva
the explanation that he did not take the particular guy in question again because he
didn’t like his work. I was unnecessarily dragged into the controversy. It was nothing to
do with me. I work with whoever the director and producers are comfortable with. I’m
not a diva and wouldn’t ever be one either. I guess when you’re a newcomer a lot of
things get blamed on to your head. I’d rather just concentrate my energies on my work
and not commenting on other people. I’m not an interviewer’s delight because I can’t
come up with juicy quotes.”
Any Bollywood star worth his salt isn’t really considered a proper star unless he
has an assortment of brand endorsements under his belt. Asin is no exception. We’ve
all seen her own television, stamping her seal of approval on some product or the
other. On last count, she’s the brand ambassador for Tata Sky, Clinic All Clear, Tanishq,
Mirinda, Fairever, Colgate and phew...the list is quite long. Quite an achievement for
a newcomer, I chide her. She corrects me saying, “I’ve been endorsing them since I
was working in the South and they’ve always been national endorsements. They’ve all
continued even after ‘Ghajini’. All of them are long-term associations. Some of them are
yet to be announced. People now are obviously more aware. There were also baseless
rumours about how I got the Tata Sky endorsement because of Aamir Khan.”
So are endorsements just part of her job or is she taking them on to acclimatise
and entrench herself firmly in Bollywood? “Not really. I’m glad that these companies
sign you on to be the face of their brands after a lot of market research. So it’s nice
to know that people relate to you. All these brands that I’ve endorsed are products
I’ve used as a child. Money is not the only motive. I could’ve signed on many projects
and endorsements. I’ve said a firm no to many liquor and tobacco companies because
it’s not something I do or would want to advise people to do. I’m very choosy about
whatever I do.”
Finally, we veer to her personal and social life. Or lack of thereof. She’s young,
gorgeous, interesting, funny and absolutely single. And unbelievably, says she’s been
single all her life! Asin is not someone you would see on the party circuit or social
scene unlike her contemporaries. She launches into an explanation, “I’m not much of
a clubbing person. I’m very much a people’s person; don’t get me wrong there. I like
to interact with people. I talk a lot, if given a chance. I don’t drink or smoke; I do like to
dance though. But that’s probably why you’ll hardly see me in clubs. You’ll see me at
parties or events related to work. Besides, I’m not attached to any camps. So there’s
no need to make appearances. And even if I do turn up, it will be for a friend and not for
appearances sake. Of course, it’s important to be in the right place at the right time.”
We know now that she’s single, but if she had to conjure up an imaginary boyfriend,
what would he be like? I wonder if there’s anyone interesting she’s worked with and
that again induces a fresh bout of laughter. “No, not really. I have never been attracted
to any of my co-stars. I go to my sets to work and don’t take any other interest coming
my way. The reason I don’t have a boyfriend is because I’m focussing on my career. At
this point of time though, I’m not even desperately looking for a boyfriend.”
But surely she has a check-list of what her ideal man should be like. “I’m really
keeping my mind open. I don’t conform to the tall, dark, handsome type. Anything is
fine. I don’t have a checklist I can tick off. My basic requirement I would look for in a
man I want to date is dignity of character. I’m just waiting to be surprised.” So would
she be willing to be surprised by a co-actor? Many of our top heroines are dating actors
very openly. “I’m not closing my options. I have half the population out for me. I don’t
have any restrictions about dating an actor.” And on that optimistic note, I take my
leave from her. Even though she’s politically correct and a self-confessed anti-thesis
of an interviewer’s delight, Asin totally wins you over with her effervescent charm and
infectious zeal. Make no mistakes, the girl’s definitely here to stay!
Manasi Rawalgaonkar

I wouldn’t be comfortable with films that are overtly
sexual or sex-based. It might be prevalent in Bollywood
but I’m somebody who’s totally out of it. And when you’re
not comfortable, it affects the performance”
Stardust May 2009
aA
“Name Any
SHINEY AHUJA, once
termed the most
arrogant actor with an
attitude that repels you,
has come a long way.
Actor And
When he entered the
industry, all eyes were
on him as he was
touted as the next big
thing. He had big film-
I’ll Strip
makers lining up at his
doorstep; top heroines
vying to star opposite
him; basically, Shiney
was on a roll. But
somewhere in between,
Him Apart
the cookie began to
crumble as stories
about his starry attitude
and lack of
professionalism started
Completely”
doing the rounds. His
intense involvement in
his films was termed
gross interference by
his detractors.
aA
Th e
56
Mr. Stardust May 2009
Stardust May 2009
Shiney Ahuja
57
PHOTOGRAPH: MUNNA S; MAKEUP: BASHARATH; HAIR: VIPUL CHUDASAMA; OUTFITS: PUNIT SINGH
His problems with co-stars like Akshay Kumar and Preity Zinta made headlines. In an industry that
seldom gives anyone a second chance Shiney was pushed into a corner – isolated and targeted.
And his hot-headedness during crisis time made things only worse.
But things have changed over the past few months. Shiney has learnt the fine art of patience
and somehow, one attributes that to the arrival of his new bundle of joy, his daughter Arshiya.
But the actor maintains he has mellowed down because he now knows the diplomatic workings
of the industry. In a no-holds-barred interview, Shiney finally lets off steam and says it like it is.
You recently bagged the Hollywood film ‘Silver Chord’ care of. I am responsible for my own work and not for
where you play the role of an American. Was this move another actor’s performance in the film.
a deliberate attempt to cash in on the latest trend of
going international post ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and join What made you do a disaster of the film like ‘Hijack’?
the bandwagon? For someone who has always boasted of being a script-
There is no deliberate planning or scheming in these kinds focused actor, how could you go so wrong?
of things. If a good film and a You’ve heard the song from
good script comes your way, “I just wish somebody from ‘Sholay’ – ‘Yeh dosti…’ so it
I think any actor would say the film industry had told me was friendship. I have broken
yes. Whether anyone has there is no point in being blunt a couple of rules I should not
done a Hollywood film before
or not makes no differences
over here with anybody. I was have, because of my friend-
ship with the director (Kunal
to my life. What affects my life not prepared for success. Shivdasani). I usually don’t
is the kind of films I do. So just Though I was prepared for step into a film until I am
because someone else has failure, all the success that happy with the script. The
done Hollywood projects in
the past, it’s no reason for me
came after ‘Gangster’ I was director told me that we
would work on it when the
to do so. My decision is inde- just not prepared for” film is underway so he asked
pendent of what anyone is me to step into it and not to
doing in their lives. Do you mean to say that I should not say no then. I had read the script 15 days before we
be a part of a film, which could win an Oscar? Right now, started shooting for the film. Finally, when it came on
there are huge expectations from me. I had done a film paper, it was not what we had spoken about. But I was
called ‘Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi’ and then ‘Gangster’ assured that it still could be worked on and if I watched
where I got lot of appreciation then ‘Hijack’ did not perform the film and was not happy with it, it wouldn’t be release.
well and suddenly, the expectations were not there. So it Moreover, I was told that if there was something to be
doesn’t matter if there are any expectations or not. The re-shot, it would be done. But that didn’t happen. When I
only expectation that I have to live up to in my life is being saw the rough cut, I knew that the film wouldn’t work.
Shiney Ahuja who is a husband, a father and a son and Unfortunately, I was shown the film just five days before
fending for my family. That’s the only thing I have to take the release. It was a big risk and it didn’t pay off.
... with Mukesh Bhatt, Kangana Ranaut and Emraan Hashmi
Some of your best hits were
with the Bhatts and you
were even termed as their
blue-eyed-boy. But one
doesn’t see you in any of
their future projects. Why
have you parted ways?
I keep talking to Bhatt sahab
on a personal level but profes-
sionally, let’s see how things
happen. There are many
things, which will have to
come together before a film’s
release. He knows me; he
knows my work more than
anybody else regardless of
who he works with. Also,
when the time is right, things
will happen.

... with Esha Deol
From being the most sought-after debutant to being
the most troublesome actor, you have become unpopu-
lar rather quickly. With an attitude like that, where do
you think you were heading?
I just wish I had better PR back then and I just wish I knew
somebody from the film industry who would’ve told me there
is no point in being blunt over here with anybody. You just
have to be nice to everyone and diplomatic in answering
questions. Nobody will respect you if you are blunt. People
will only respect you if you are diplomatic or sweet on their
face. And these are the lessons I learnt only with experience.
When I came, I was very forthright and if someone is really
smart he will respect you for it and he is the only person not
playing a game with you while all the others do. That’s be-
cause he will risk his own reputation to tell you the truth.
That’s how I was because I would expect the same thing from
other people. Because you always want to assume that the
other person is a reflection of yourself. I wish I knew some-
body earlier who would have educated me. I was not prepared
for success. Though I was prepared for failure, all the success
that came after ‘Gangster’ I was just not prepared for. bitching about other people or my co-stars? You have known
me for two years now; have you ever read any article where
In spite of the hit films that you were a part of, you are I have bitched about anyone? I don’t do that. I don’t think
still not considered in the A-league of actors? Does that there were so many issues while working as it was put across
bother you? in the media. Also, when you work with someone day in and
I don’t know the clear definition of an A-league actor. I never day out, there are ought to be times when you don’t agree
got a solo-hit film in that sense. Even ‘Gangster’ was publicised with each other. It happens with everyone. But that gets
with Emraan Hashmi in it and that’s how they positioned the unnecessary attention in the media.
film. Nevertheless, I am fortunate to be applauded for my
performance in the film and be noticed by people. There are ‘Gangster’ came a long time ago and you have not had
always two sides to a coin. Maybe for a couple of people, I a single hit since then. Is there an added pressure to
am not in the A-league. But some think I am better than the prove yourself yet again especially when the competi-
A-league. I am saying this as a possibility in terms of talent. It tion has intensified with the new breed of actors like
is just a question of point of Ranbir Kapoor and Imran
view or just a way of putting it “I was assured that if I watched Khan stepping in?
across. Different people per- the film (‘Hijack’) and was not I am oblivious to it. The
ceive things differently. You thought does not even come
name any actor and I will strip
happy with it, it wouldn’t be to my mind. Every year, so
him apart completely and tell released. I was told that if there many people come in the
you why. In fact, even you can was something to be re-shot, it industry and everyone comes
strip apart any actor; it’s very would be done. But that didn’t with their own kismet and
easy. However, if you have to their own fate. I cannot
position a person according to
happen. When I saw the rough change theirs and they can-
his or her talent, it’s not very cut, I knew that the film not change mine. My work
easy. The point is – who am I? I wouldn’t work” and my attitude towards my
am Shiney Ahuja. I would say work will decide my fate.
that success and failures are a part of life and if you can’t learn Someone coming and giving a brilliant performance is not
from your failures then that’s a failure really. There is not even going to make my performance any better or any worse. The
one person who has not failed. You’ll win a couple of battles day I start losing focus on my work is the day I will start
and you’ll lose a couple but the idea is to win the war. thinking of competition also because I will not be doing my
best. Then I will be wondering why things are not happening.
You didn’t get along with most of your co-stars – from So even now, when I look at ‘Hijack’, I don’t cringe. I admit
Preity Zinta to Esha Deol to Eesha Koppikhar. They found it was not good. I was there to act; not to direct the film. The
you excessively interfering. What do you have to say? kind of energy and dedication I put in ‘Gangster’ is the same
Now anything that I will say to this will become a quote. From that I put in ‘Hijack’ but if the story was completely illogical,
the time I have come in the industry, have you ever seen me there is nothing an actor can do beyond a point.

the truth. If someone didn’t know I was not married earlier
then probably they have not asked me that.
You’ve been lambasted often for your attitude problems.

Do such things still rattle you or have you grown ac-
customed to this badgering?
There is not even one star who is not subjected to things
that are not true. You just learn to live with it. I know that
most of what was put up to me was not true. Some people
did talk negative about me and there were others who spoke
positively but that’s never been written. Why don’t you ask
Vidya Balan or Shilpa Shetty or even Chitrangada Singh what
they think about me?
Has fatherhood changed Shiney? Has it mellowed you

... with Shilpa Shetty
as a person?
In the industry where you have to maintain good rela- I am exactly the same person. Only people’s perception has
tionships with film-makers, your clashes with them will changed. Earlier I used to get provoked a lot. People used to
only work against you. Moreover, in a place where your provoke me just to get reactions out of me. Now it doesn’t
sweet talking skills are put to test, how far will your happen that much; it’s much better. I guess people like me
bluntness take you? more now. It’s nothing but acceptance of talent and person-
You will be surprised that the best of friends that I made were ality, I guess.
at that time. See, success will get you more enemies than
friends. So you should just take it as a part and parcel of this It is rumoured that you have increased your price. At
profession and there is nothing you can do about it. I think, the time when your movies are not doing so well, don’t
in the long run, my hard work will pay off. In the beginning, it you feel such demands would be a sure deterrent in
won’t. It is the harder route I have taken. Every time, when getting good projects?
the list that comes out stating the next number one, everyone I have never asked for any money from anybody; I’ve always
says that you have to be a PR whiz kid. But finally, the person got an offer. How can anybody decide how much money one
who tops the number one list is being applauded for his work. should get? If I have quoted a sum, it’s because someone
Either I should have a very good must have paid or offered it to
producer who is backing me in “There are always two sides me. Why would I want to ask
most of the films I am doing or
else you have got to take the
to a coin. Maybe for a couple someone for a price that no
one will pay? If I am asking for
harder route. I don’t have a of people, I am not in the a price, it means I like the script
godfather who gives me bright- A-league. But some think I am and if we are talking all this
est, the most publicised films better than the A-league” then we are sitting on the ne-
every year, and all I have to do gotiation table. And I am going
is work in them and do a couple of endorsements. Either you to talk about the price that I got before, right? Otherwise, if I
get everything on a silver platter or as they say, Khudi ko kar just go on quoting a price, I will not be able to do the film.
buland itna ki khuda hi tujhse pooche bata teri razza kya hai.
So that’s the route I have to take. Either ways, the destination You’ve got so much going against you in the industry.
is the same. It is in my destiny. I will get what I want but I will In a place where only diplomacy works, you are not on
have to work for it. anybody’s good books. Isn’t that a kind of professional
harakiri?
Why were you so secretive about your family earlier? See, for every actor, every film is a battle. I am not fighting
The right word would not be secretive; it would be posses- anybody; I am just concentrating on my work. Is the peg of
sive. Also it was more of my wife’s decision than mine. She your story, ‘Is Shiney committing professional suicide?’ I am
didn’t want to get involved in all this. Now I have a daughter on good terms with everybody that I have worked with and
and we both were very sure we are going to have kids and whatever you’ve heard or read are just stories. It’s really
that one of us should have a normal life. Our daughter should surprising because sometimes, these stories are so far from
feel like a normal person; otherwise with two celebrity par- reality and there is no other way of proving it. It’s better that
ents what life will the kid have? I have never hidden my you concentrate on your work like the horse with the blind-
marriage. If you watch any of my films, my wedding ring has ers on; else you will never be able to do your work properly.
always been there on my finger even when I’m playing a That’s the lesson I’ve learnt.
bachelor. If somebody assumes that I was not married then
the assumption is their view-point but that doesn’t change Sunaina Chandran

‘GONE’ AB
PHOTOGRAPH: SUBI SAMUEL

Stardust May 2009
RAHAM!
JOHN
CAN SURVIVE
THERE’S A RUMOUR doing the
industry rounds. A few weeks
ago, director David Dhawan was
shooting his next film ‘Hook Ya
THE
Crook’ in Hyderabad. Dhawan,
who has worked with some of
the finest actors in the industry,
is known to have a cool
temperament. Rarely does he
lose his cool and the film unit
was in for a rude shock when he
tried to keep his frustrations in
check when lead actor John
Abraham couldn’t get his lines
right. It was literally the test of
‘WORST
David’s patience. Unable to
contain his disappointment, the
director had no option but to
call for a break. Even John’s co-
actors in the film, Shreyas
Talpade and Kay Kay Menon,
were shocked to see the tension
erupting on the set. When we
tried contacting John, he simply
refused to respond. And the
news died its own death within
ACTOR’ TAG?
the confines of the unit.
JOHN ABRAHAM’S FLOP FACTORY
Over 25 releases and just two hits – that’s a tall order for any
actor. But John Abraham is surviving in the industry despite
that. Here’s a look at some of his major disasters:
PAAP
The joint efforts of Pooja Bhatt
(director) and Mahesh Bhatt (writer) KARAM
failed when this film vanished Despite having Priyanka Chopra as
without a trace. Incidentally, this was the lead heroine, nobody knows
the time John was at his peak as a when this film came and went.
poster boy.
SAAYA
This came soon after ‘Jism’ and
everyone thought the much-hyped
John would attract an audience.
But even a director like Anurag
Basu couldn’t salvage this film. AETBAAR
This Vikram Bhatt-directed film
also starred Amitabh Bachchan and
Bipasha Basu. John’s character had
grey shades but instead of terrifying
the audience, he succeeded in
making them laugh.
and the dashing dude is shrewd just cannot play any normal office-
enough to know his limitations. In fact, going person.”
at the outset of his film career, the In the current scenario with an
successful model never entertained overdose of media coverage, getting
the thought that he would rustle up so noticed is no problem for any
much hype. Initially, he grabbed performer. But after the initial euphoria
eyeballs because of his achingly built dies down, it’s only the talent that
physique but the problem started counts. John is a great looker no doubt
Admittedly, this is not the first time when along with hype came the – but he’s been there and done that.
that John has found himself in such a excess baggage of expectations. Now, the audience demands more
messy situation. In the past too, we Today, it is the same body, which he from him. But the question
have heard about directors like Anurag flaunts at the drop of a hat, and the is – does he have it in him to deliver
Kashyap, Nagesh Kukunoor and Vivek venerable ‘poster boy’ status that the goods?
Agnihotri being compelled to confront often works against him. Admits Mahesh Bhatt launched John for the
similar predicaments when they John’s friend and director Kabir Khan, first time in the controversial ‘Jism’ but
worked with the glorified stud muffin. “Beyond a point, if you are going to even in that film, it was Bipasha Basu
Sadly, the industry is too diplomatic focus on the body, it is definitely who walked away with all the kudos.
(read scared) to admit it publicly. going to go against you. If, today, John John was only remembered for his
But at the same time they wouldn’t wants to be taken as an actor and not taut torso, which he flaunted with élan
mind sniggering about the actor in as a pin-up, it will be very difficult. through out the film. Bhatt feels that
hushed tones. Like Aishwarya Rai’s beauty John has not grown as an actor and
For the hunky actor, it isn’t a prevented her from getting many none of his performances after ‘Jism’
situation he asked to be in. The world roles. John’s physicality is such that have been talked about. “The answer
knows that John is not a trained actor he just cannot play any character. He is a resounding no,” he maintains. “If it

him and one will get the picture
MADHOSHI
crystal clear. For instance, the much
This came at a time when the
low-key Shaahid Kapoor was taken
John-Bipasha romance was making
as a star seriously only after the
headlines everywhere. The audience
much celebrated ‘Jab We Met’
was still not interested in seeing
happened. But even before that, he
them on screen.
had still successfully established
himself as a solo hero with films like
‘Vivaah’ and ‘Ishq Vishq’. If today,
Shaahid is in a far bigger league than
John, it’s only because of the fact
that he has reinvented himself with
every film and every character. Vivek
Oberoi who entered the industry
around the same time proved his
mettle as an actor of caliber in many
films like ‘Company’, ‘Saathiya’,
‘Yuva’ and ‘Omkara’. Even
DHAN DHANA DHAN
newcomers like Ranbir Kapoor and
GOAL
Imran Khan have raced past John in
ELAAN This may just be one of the few
the talent department.
John was part of an ensemble cast flops UTV has to its credit. You
Filmmaker Harry Baweja who had
in this film, which will be best have to take one look at the film’s
cast him in ‘Karam’ prefers to call
remembered for packing off Vikram music video to understand John’s
him a pin-up sensation and not an
Bhatt into hiding. handling of expressions.
actor. Things sound a little bit harsh
when a section of the industry today
NO SMOKING
calls the actor ‘Gone’ Abraham
No film received the kind
because of his spate of flops. And for
of pre-release hype as
any lead actor, it is an even more
this one. John went on an
humiliating experience when a
overdrive but even director
second lead manages to overshadow
Anurag Kashyap knew
you completely in a film.
what was in store after he
It happened for the first time in
saw the film’s first copy.
Kabir Khan’s ‘Kabul Express’ where
Arshad Warsi and Salman Shahid (the
were, I would have heard it from so In all of his films, John had the Pakistani character actor) were the
many people who quite like him. But I same two-and-a-half expressions on only two actors whose performances
still feel that he has not been able to his face and his body language were applauded. And the same
out-distance that impression he left in literally struggled to be in tandem with episode was repeated during ‘Dhan
the viewer’s mind. Normally, people the camera. Dhana Dhan Goal’ where Arshad
around me often say that his best And then ‘Dhoom’ happened, which completely overshadowed John
work remains just ‘Jism’. The angst, could be termed as John’s only claim to despite having a much smaller part.
the anguish, the sincerity, the doomed a hit in his career spanning six years. But Kabir Khan feels that getting John
portrayal in the film has, kind of, left an like a Yash Raj loyalist puts it, “Aditya to give his cent per cent before the
indelible mark on the consciousness of Chopra had worked with the character camera is a tough task as the pin-up
people, which hasn’t been surpassed in such a way that it didn’t need any sensation tends to get too conscious
by his subsequent films,” he says. histrionics. All John needed was to look as and when the camera starts
After the no-holds-barred physicality good and mouth a handful of lines.” rolling. “One thing I have always told
in ‘Jism’, the next best thing for the It’s said that during the scripting John is if he could get even 50 per
hunk to do was to position himself as stage, Aditya gave strict instructions cent of what he is off-camera on to
the male pin-up sensation but the that John would have only a few the screen, he would rock,” he states.
strategy went haywire. His gorgeous dialogues. But the moot point is that “In real life, he has such a brilliant
looks never really helped him grow as not every film would require a smile but I have never quite managed
an actor. And then there was a string character like ‘Dhoom’ and every to get that on camera. That is the
of duds like ‘Saaya’, ‘Paap’, ‘Lakeer’ actor, after a point of time, has to raise problem with most actors.” With
and ‘Aitbaar’, which crashed at the his own bar. And the sad part is that regard to John’s disastrous portrayal
box-office one after another. Also, John has been unable to do that. in ‘Kabul Express’, Kabir justifies,
these disastrous flicks did little for Compare him with the heroes who “John likes to be understated.
John to evolve as a performer. started around the same time or after Sometimes it works and sometimes it

doesn’t. When it doesn’t people, think been much of a change. most of his films, he has played a foil
it is wooden. Unfortunately in our It would be disheartening for any to the protagonist. The recent case in
industry, our audiences have liked a actor to find his name on top of ‘the point being ‘Dostana’ where director
louder sort of acting.” worst actor of all times’ list on the Tarun Mansukhani gave him the role of
During the making of the film, it was Internet. But that’s where you find a muted photographer as opposed to
widely reported that John and Arshad John. Would that be a reason why Abhishek who was more boisterous
couldn’t see eye-to-eye and it was none of his directors have repeated and loud.
understood that Arshad was by far him in any of his films with the The grapevine has it that Nagesh
exasperated with his co-actor’s exception of Kabir Khan who’s worked Kukunoor’s ‘Aashayein’ is ready for
no-show. A source connected with with him again in ‘New York’? Not long release for over a year now but even
the film reveals, “There were times time back, director Nikhil Adwani who the producer, Percept Picture
when in certain shots, Arshad would had cast John in ‘Salaam-E-Ishq’ Company, seems to have lost faith in
give his best take but the shot would opposite Vidya Balan had blasted him the project. For his next film ‘Hook Ya
be canned because John wouldn’t for demanding a whopping sum of Rs Crook’, director David Dhawan was
get it right.” 13 crores. The outspoken director was desperate to sign Arshad Warsi in a
Their war was at its peak when quoted as saying, “You have exactly 13 parallel role to John’s but the actor
Arshad was highly disturbed about the expressions. Do you expect to be paid flatly refused the role which then went
fact he was not given his well Rs one crore per expression?” to Shreyas Talpade. Adding to the
deserved credit during film’s John’s biggest drawback lies in the pandemonium is another report about
promotion. In ‘Taxi No 9211’ too, the fact that he is unable to fit into the Kabir Khan’s ‘New York’. The film’s first
tall presence of Nana Patekar mould of any character. Give him a promo was out a month back but it
completely outshone John. character like ‘Dhoom’ and ‘Dostana’ has been kept on the backburner by
It is a known fact that the growth of where all he needs to do is to flaunt Yash Raj films. The industry buzz was
any actor happens with the kind of his body and look good – perhaps you that Aditya Chopra was aghast when
directors he works with, who eventually won’t find any faults. But the moment he saw the rushes of the film,
help him come out of his dormant shell, you ask him to slip into the skin of any especially John Abraham in the more
and be his natural spontaneous self. specific character, he’ll be a big intense portions. Of course, to John’s
Now, to John’s credit, he has worked disappointment. credit, we must add that Kabir Khan
with the likes of Deepa Mehta, That’s the reason why John needs denies this and understandably so.
Priyadarshan, Sanjay Gadhvi, Ravi excessive padding in his films. That’s “We are ready but not able to release
Chopra, Anurag Kashyap, Nagesh why even after having more than 25 because of the producers’ strike,” he
Kukunoor and Karan Johar amongst releases in six years, he can only boast
“John
others. However, if you analyse the of two hits to his credit. That also
actor’s performance skills from ‘Jism’ in explains why there are no takers for a
2003 to ‘Dostana’ in 2008, there has not solo John Abraham film anymore. In
... with Abhishek Bachchan
has not been

able to
outdistance
the
impression
he left in the
viewer’s
mind.
Normally,
people
around me
often say that

his best work
remains just
‘Jism’”
– Mahesh Bhatt

“Beyond
a point, if you are going to focus on the body, it is
definitely going to go against you. If, today,
John wants to be taken as an actor and not as a
pin-up, it will be very difficult” – Kabir Khan
says. “The promos were aired ... with Bipasha Basu
because of the Yash Raj policy.
The promos were shown with
‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ because
there were no other films. Both
Aditya and I were happy with his
performance. I don’t want to
speak about it much right now.”
Point noted.
Still, John continues to maintain
an image of a poster boy because
he knows he is best only at that.
He had no inhibitions when he
bared his butt with panache in
‘Dostana’ and while doing a Full
Monty in the upcoming ‘New
York’. The other agenda that
keeps him regular in Page 3
columns is his on and off
relationship with his
comparatively more successful
girlfriend Bipasha Basu. And when
he does get a one-off hit like
‘Dostana’ to his credit, he goes all
out and hogs full credit for it.
Everyone noticed that John had
a handful of dialogues in
‘Dostana’ and the film was
completely shouldered by
Abhishek Bachchan and Priyanka
Chopra. Even John’s preposterous
dance in the song Desi Girl
became the butt of all jokes.
Though director Tarun
Mansukhani defends John’s
dancing skills saying, “It was a fun
song shot in a pub where actors
were meant to just let their hair
down.” Director Milan Luthria who
cast John in ‘Taxi No 9211’ adds,
“Yes, John needs to work on his
dancing. Both of us have often
joked about it.”
The million-dollar question is –
how long would John’s
propaganda last? John’s legion of
fans and the directors he has
worked with have realised it. It is
only John who doesn’t seem to

understand the implications of
the ‘worst actor’ tag that
comes along with his
share of stardom. It’s time
for him to act – literally.

JOHN ABRAHAM:
KISSA KISS KA!

If there are stars that turn their fans off with
their snobbish attitude and curt tones,
there are also stars who fans would want to
approach just be-
cause they’re ap-
RANI MUKHERJI: proachable and
easy going. One
ALL WORK AND NO such charmer is
John Abraham.
PLAY! This particular
incident oc-
Workaholics exist everywhere, but some people take
the term to another level. Rani Mukherji is quite a curred during his
professional in the industry where such terms changes modelling days,
with the rise in their star status. While shooting for before his foray
‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna’, the cast was working non- into Bollywood.
stop to finish the pending scenes. John was one
After a gruelling week of work, of the guests
Karan Johar gave the entire of honour at an
cast a day off on Sunday event to cel-
much to everyone’s relief. ebrate Women’s Day. Despite the presence
However, one person was of the other celebs at the venue, John re-
not too happy about the mained the most wanted, what with every-
change in schedule. While one wanting to meet him and talk to him.
Preity Zinta, Shah Rukh During the course of the evening, when
Khan and the rest of the John was in conversation with someone, a
cast were busy planning petite gal went up to him to greet him. The
how best to un- polite and chivalrous John excused himself
wind, Rani was all and turned to greet the girl courteously. But
dressed up and he was pleasantly surprised when the girl
ready to work asked if she could kiss him. With a dimpled
much to their grin, John agreed, and bent down to level
annoyance. In his face with the petite’s girl. The elated fan
fact, she even planted a peck on his cheek, shook hands
tried to cajole with him and thanking him profusely, went
K Jo to not her way, too excitedly narrate to her friends
waste time about how she ‘kissed John Abraham.’ Word
and get back of advice John; next time you allow people
to work. Just as to kiss you, make sure Bipasha Basu is no-
tired as the oth- where around.
ers, Karan was in
a quandary and
didn’t know how
to react. His efforts to get Rani to lighten up and go
partying with the others fell on deaf ears as she stood
her ground. The matter was resolved when Karan was
informed by others that the entire cast has gone to
enjoy their day off in their own respective way leaving
Rani behind because of her attitude. Karan heaved a
sigh at having averted what could turn into a major
crisis. Who says being professional pays all the time!
EESHA KOPPIKHAR:
FROM REEL TO CELINA JAITELY:
REAL ACIDIC TALE

Gorgeous lass Celina Jaitley’s love for spicy
The true testimony of an actor’s talent lies in food is well chronicled and anyone who is
the fact that people remember and admire close to the beauty will vouch for her impec-
their on-screen characters. One such person cable culinary skills. Her tuna salad is quite
is Eesha Koppikhar. The lovely actress won a rage and she doesn’t like any of her food
many hearts for her fun portrayal of Inspec- cravings to remain in her system. The foodie
tor Urmila Martodkar in the 2005 hit ‘Kyaa actor loves ex-
Kool Hai Hum’. She garnered much appreci- perimenting
ation and tons of laughter for her on-screen with food and
histrionics and become quite a rage after wherever she
goes, she makes
sure that her
taste buds get a
flavour of the lo-
cal cuisine. How-
ever, sometimes
her binging
sessions lead to
lot of problems.
Recently, when
the actress was
in Hyderabad,
she stayed at
The Sitara hotel.
The fun-loving
beauty found
the whole experience quite grotesque to say
the least. She was heard telling her friends
sarcastically that Sitara is world’s most posh
hotel and also joked about the camel painting
which was donning the wall of her hotel room
and the gaudy chandeliers. She happened to
binge on a lot of haleem which led to severe
acidity. We sure hope this experience won’t
act as a damper to for her love food.
this character. However, what took us by surprise

was when she revealed that even today, when
the local cops see her on the road, they offer her a
salute and address her by that character name. “I
feel for me, that is my biggest reward”, she admits.
We’ve gotta say Eesha, for someone who had the
guts and gumption to play that role the way you
did, you totally deserve all that praise.
PHOTOGRAPHS: JITU SAVLANI; OUTFITS & STYLING: MANISH MALHOTRA; MAKE-UP: NILESH KOTHAVALE; HAIR: SACHIN KADAM
Topple
“I Can’t
Govinda”
Tusshar
s
sn’t it strange that the films and the actors who actually have you in splits and help
yyou in forgetting the realities of the harsh world outside the theatre are rarely taken
sseriously? Though it may sound a little ironical, comedy, even if aesthetically and
wittily portrayed, is hardly ever taken seriously. Nor is the actor portraying the funny
w
man. Give the audience an over-the-top, high pitched emotional melodrama any day
m
– that will be gulped down with sheer glee and the actor portraying the role will be
inundated with praise. Though comedies have been most consistent money-churners
in
at the box-office
box-office, they’ve never got the due they deserve. Or else, how would you describe the reason for an
actor like Tusshar Kapoor to take so long to get his share of recognition?
But well, like they say, better late than never. Tusshar has managed to destroy the over-riding mindset
about comedies in our country and has proved his mettle with side-bursting performances in his recent films.
Acknowledgment may have taken time but he is undoubtedly among the most talented star kids around.
After the rip-roaring success of ‘Golmaal Returns’, the industry has finally awakened to the fact that Tusshar
has it in him to eclipse even the most seasoned actors. No wonder then that he’s already being touted as
the fresh prince of comedy. But the actor still seems a bit upset when he says, “According to me, it is high
time comedy got its due.” He then goes on to explain, “Earlier, comedy was considered a very niche genre.
Earlier, films had everything – action, emotion and comedy all packed into one solid entertainer. But now, you
have films that specialise in each aspect. The hero can be just the comedian and that’s great because that’s
as strong as any other hero today,” he says proudly. “I am very lucky as I got the opportunity to get into this
genre with ‘Kya Kool Hain Hum’ and then ‘Golmaal’. I know this shift is here to stay because of the increasing
levels of stress in the world. People now want to watch films to unwind. And I think it’s a promising shift for
people like me.”
The only fear he has is people restricting him to one category. “Well, you know, it’s only within the
industry that people start categorising you as a comedy hero or an action hero. I think the audience is
willing to accept you in any role if you do a good job. When I did ‘Shootout At Lokhandwala’, I was very
skeptical about it because I didn’t know how the audiences would react. However, it worked. So, one has
to take that risk every now and then. At the same time, I am not going to stop doing films that are comic
in nature just because I feel I have done a lot of them. Why lose out on good opportunities just because of
the fear of being typecast?” he asks.

Tusshar also believes that no amount of strategy can help
you in the long run, when it comes to choosing the right kind
of roles. “Life takes strange turns and planning never works
out the way you want it to. But I am going to be choosy even
though I don’t believe in strategies. One has to think before
signing a film of any genre. I go with my heart and I have a good
judgment in scripts. No film I have left has gone on and done
really well. So it stops at my gut feeling and instinct as far as
strategy is concerned. And I love doing comedies.”
There’s already buzz about him having replaced Govinda in
the comedy genre – in fact, he’s been touted as the fresh prince
of comedy. He laughs, “Baap re, now that’s pressure,” he says
with a smile. “I don’t think I can topple him. I mean, look at his
body of work. I can’t think of competing with him until I have a
‘Coolie No.1’ or ‘Hero No. 1’. I think the fact that I am getting to
do films with him in the same league is a huge compliment. No
one can match his comic style, timing and improvisation even
today. I am really happy that people are comparing me with
him. Why not look at it positively? I do take it as an admiring
comment.”
Tusshar is presently doing two films with Govinda (‘Run Bhola
Run’ and ‘Life Partner’). Considering Govinda is known to be
interfering, isn’t Tusshar scared about his roles being slashed
in these movies? “Nothing like that has happened till now,” he
sighs with relief and continues. “Probably because the directors

I am working with are not newcomers. So, if any actor had to
overpower them, they wouldn’t let it happen. Both Neeraj Vora
and Rumi Jaffrey have done loads of work. I don’t think there
is any question of that happening. Plus, Govinda hasn’t shown
me that streak or side at all. In fact, he’s so particular that even
if he changes a line, he asks his co-star and the director before
... with Celina
doing so. Maybe he does that because
people have made him so conscious
about this so-called image of his.”
elina and I love watching
Since Govinda’s recent films like films and we’ve been spotted
‘Money Hain Toh Honey Hain’ and ‘Chal together so many times. She’s
Chala Chal’ failed miserably, the makers
of ‘Run Bhola Run’ and ‘Life Partner’ are
someone who’s straight out of
all geared up to promote their film’s on a Bollywood film from the 80s.
Tusshar’s brand value. How does that She is like a goonda mawaali
make him feel? “Well, I hope so,” he who’s totally crazy”
laughs. “It feels very good when you’re
coming out of a film like ‘Golmaal Returns’. At the risk of didn’t have any doubts like that in my mind about ‘Apna...’ I was
sounding boastful, I’ll say that when the last film has done very happy that I didn’t do the film because if Riteish and I have to
well, it feels great because the next one you do has you as the do a film, it should be the ‘Kya Kool Hain Hum’ sequel.”
selling point. I am not saying this in comparison to someone But it is believed that Riteish is not too keen to star in the
else but I know I’ll be plugged very well since my last film has sequel of ‘Kya Kool…’ He feels that a naughty comedy like
been a hit. In this industry, you’re as good or bad as your last that could harm his career at this stage. “Even I have heard
film. Tomorrow, if something goes wrong, people won’t say the those rumours but I have no idea about that,” admits Tusshar.
same thing. So I think one should enjoy this phase as long as it “We are still working on the script. Honestly, my co-star
lasts and only try to better it,” he grins. doesn’t matter to me because I want to do the film. It would
At one point in time, rumours had also suggested that be nice to work with the original but if it doesn’t work out,
because of the underhand tactics of close friend Riteish it’s absolutely fine.”
Deshmukh, Tusshar couldn’t sign ‘Apna Sapna Money Money’. At Tusshar’s recent party, for the first time, Riteish was openly
Tusshar was supposed to do the role that eventually went to seen with girlfriend Genelia. The news was that Tusshar hadn’t
Shreyas Talpade but Riteish didn’t want him in the film. “I don’t invited her and was shocked to see her there. Hearing this,
think Riteish would do such a thing,” says the actor. “And I was he immediately cuts in, “Of course, I had invited her; she’s a
never offered the film. It was entirely the call of Mukta Arts. damn good friend of mine. We are doing ‘Life Partner’ together.
I did ‘Good Boy Bad Boy’ with them at the same time. So, I I invited her much before I invited anyone else. What’s between

them is not my concern but I invited both of them
separately. In fact, I am much friendlier with
Genelia than with Riteish.”
Tusshar has always been known to get along
with all his co-stars. It was even said that when
Sharman Joshi walked out of the ‘Golmaal’
sequel, Tusshar was very disappointed. “It’s his
call and his life so I didn’t really get into that bit.
Yes, I was very upset that he didn’t do it because
we were very friendly during the first part,” he
says honestly. “I missed him on a personal level
but on the professional front, kaam toh chalta
rehta hai. And now that he’s part of the third one,
it’ll be great to work with him because for us, it’s
like the more the merrier.”
There’s no denying Tusshar is proficient where
comedy is concerned. His characterisations have
never been in-your-face like Akshay Kumar. Is it
a concerted effort to underplay and evoke the
laughs with his mannerisms and dialogues rather
than playing to the gallery? “I don’t control myself
in any way,” he thinks and answers. “I try to be
as energetic as possible. Maybe if I start going
over-the-top, it won’t suit me. I think Akshay
manages to carry it off very well and he is liked
for that kind of comedy. What’s good for me may
not be good for him and vice versa; everybody
has their own style. But to pull of a style which
is in-your-face is commendable. That’s not my
style yet. Maybe it’ll be in a couple of years after
a little more experience. But you can’t play to the
gallery and force yourself to be someone else
when it doesn’t come from within. Akshay has
made it till there and it’s great. He’s one of my
role models, just like my dad,” he pauses for a
second and adds, “Both of them have managed
to make it big without big banners behind them.
He’s worked hard and slogged it out and today,
he has his own brand of films.”
Talking of family, Balaji has been going through
a lot of problems of recent. How has that affected
him? “Problems at Balaji are about shows
shutting down and all. It’s a sign we are taking
very positively because now we’ll move to newer
channels, newer kind of shows as one can’t carry
on with the same things that are four or five
years old. Ekta is also tired of making the same
kind of stuff and so she too is moving to different
genres. She’ll start her own channel probably. This
can’t think of competing

with Govinda until I have
a ‘Coolie No.1’ or ‘Hero
No. 1’. But I’m really
happy that people are
comparing me with him”
is not a phase where ‘EMI’ and ‘Mission
we are going down; it’s roblems at Balaji are about Istanbul’. And I
a phase where we are shows shutting down and wasn’t offered ‘Koi
all. Ekta will start her own

starting something new. Aap Saa’ and ‘Kyunki
Like there’ll be more Main Jhoot Nahin
concentration on films. channel probably. She Bolta’. A good script
It’s like moving to a new has worked so hard for should work out for
era,” he says confidently.
“It’s like a business shift
10 years that she needs to both of us.”
Not many know
more than a result of take it a little easy now” that Tusshar and
an economic slowdown. We’ll be making more serials bu but with Ekta share a rather volatile relationship. A couple of months
different channels now. New relationships have been made. A back, he had a party after very long. When someone asked
lot of it is not because of us; it’s because of personal problems him as to how it would be as compared to Ekta’s parties,
with certain media heads that has led to a shift. Ekta has slowed Tusshar had said, “She calls TV stars and my party will have
down a lot. In fact, I am very happy for her because she has only film stars.” The sister didn’t take too kindly to that
worked so hard for 10 years that she needs to take it a little easy comment and had a huge fight with him over it. Tusshar gets
now. She has a lot more time for herself. She needs to move on apologetic when he says, “I didn’t mean it in the sense that
to other things before starting the same speed again.” I look down upon TV actors or anything. In fact, I love her
But despite being his home production, Balaji has never parties but it’s just that we have different friend circles,”
made a film with Tusshar as the solo lead. Does his own he pauses. “Both our worlds are different so therefore I just
company feel he’s not a saleable star? “No, I don’t think that’s made a statement that my parties were not going to be like
the case. In fact they wanted to launch me for my debut but I hers as the invitees were going to be different. It’s not that
refused to let them launch me because I wanted to make it or the medium of films is bigger than TV or anything; I know so
at least start out on my own without the support of my family. many of her friends from TV. I was never intending to look
It was a conscious effort on our parts to keep it like a business down upon her work in that way because she is much bigger
and only offer me films if they really needed me. They were than I am. Ekta and I are like buddies even though I am not
never unwilling to take that risk with me but only if the script as emotionally expressive as she is.”
was good and the director wanted me do it,” he says. “They The one thing Tusshar has been discreet about is his dil
might not approach me if I don’t fit the bill and I might reject vil pyar vyar. But of late, a lot of people have been talking
it if I don’t like the set-up. I didn’t say yes to ‘Krishna Cottage’, about his alleged affair with Celina Jaitley. He smiles and
admits, “Celina and I love watching films and we’ve
... with sister Ekta
been spotted together so many times so people think
there’s something on between us. She’s like another guy
friend of mine. She’s very funny, extremely entertaining
and completely cracked. I’ve not seen a more cracked
person than her and that’s what I really like about her,”
he laughs. “She’s someone who’s straight out of a
Bollywood film from the 80s. I just enjoy the company of
someone who is so uninhibited about being funny and
stupid. Usually one works with actresses who are very
prissy but Celina is like a goonda mawaali who’s totally
crazy and that’s what I like about her. I am genuinely
not having an affair with any actress; not yet at least. I
have always been attracted to the most unlikely people
usually not from the industry. Somehow, I always wonder
what would they think about me if they know I have the
hots for them? So I keep quiet.”
So that’s why Tusshar prefers to be private about his
romances. “I am single and I am ready to mingle. I am not
seriously involved with anybody but yes, I am very discreet
about my personal life. I have been enjoying and having
fun of all kinds. I am not just sitting and having a drink
but I also not in love yet,” he giggles. “If I fall in love, I am
not going to hide it. I will come out in the open about my
relationship but until then I just want to enjoy especially till
the time recession is going on,” he laughs again. God save
us from this recession. As if doomed appraisals weren’t
enough, it’s also costing Tusshar his love life.
Raedita Tandan

Sixpack
snippets Dirty
Ambition Dancing
Madhavan, who Bandra boy Purab
just turned heads Kohli has two left
in smash hit ‘13 B’ feet and he
has always lost in discovered that
the battle of bulge. recently when he
After several failed attempts it seems that joined jazz dance
the well-fed dude from down South is classes. Hope he
going to US for some weight loss gets his steps right
programme for the nth time. We wish him soon enough!
speedy six pack abs!
Bad Hair
Day
Minissha Lamba was
spotted at a mall in
frumpy black tracks and
a blue tee. We really Workout Woes
hope for her sake that Not many know that Saif Ali
she was on her way to Khan’s awesome physique,
the gym and not on a which he flaunted with élan
shopping trip, because in ‘Race’ was thanks to his
she was certainly not filmi workout. The Nawab
making a style doesn’t believe in the serious
statement! workout and has picked up
term “isolation” in the
workout lingo and uses it
quite often much to
everyone’s amusement.
Also Spotted On The Fast Lane

When an Adonis like Dino Morea After becoming
wears a floral headband at the the talk-of-town
gym, girls around him certainly because of her
have a reason to chuckle. Talking sensational
of hunks, Z-lister (we’re being bikini shoot, the
kind because alphabets end with gorgeous
Z) Ashmit Patel is quite a rage at Neetu Chandra
his gym among the fairer sex. has got another
ace up her
sleeve. The
sultry siren just
booked a sexy
BMW. Wow!!!
Sweet Tooth
Newcomer Adah Sharma was
in a mood to indulge her
sweet tooth as we caught her
munching on donuts with a
mystery man at a suburban
café. Good to see someone
not uccumbing to the size-
zero fixation.

V I N DA
GO
I
It’s surprising really how Govinda
hasn’t been grilled for a long time.
Chi Chi gets into enough trouble in
a day to be able to put him into the
dock every month. Brawling and
acting obnoxiously seem to feature
more in the Hero No. 1’s agenda
than his daily shootings. People
just can’t seem to be able to make
up their minds about him. They’re
not sure whether to label him a liar
or a jinx. In fact, his detractors are
quick to tag him both. The
filmmakers (he’s recently worked
with) almost have a mutual dislike
society going for him. He’s also
accused of being a hypocrite and
trouble-maker.
On one hand, he’s got a rejuvenated
film career to contend with. And on
the other, anxious party workers
are provoking him up for an
election he doesn’t want to contest.
Caught between his film career and
politics, Govinda doesn’t know
what to do next. His turbulent state
of mind is understandable. He’s
finally getting worthwhile roles
once again and he doesn’t want to
give up the opportunity to work
with reputed filmmakers like David
Dhawan, Mani Ratnam, Ravi
Chopra and Nikhil Advani among
others. With so much going for
him, the Entertainer No. 1 was
quite the obvious choice for this
month’s COURT MARTIAL. Read
on as he speaks on bidding politics
goodbye and saying hello to films
once again.
PHOTOGRAPHS: BBHUPI; MAKE-UP: RAMESH
After receiving severe flak and felt it would be correct to leave
hatred from the political arena politics and hand over my
“During my tenure
for quite some time, you responsibility and power. Let the
eventually decided to quit seniors decide. Sometimes I feel it’s of five years (as an
politics. People still cannot very important to save your power, MP), I was asked
fathom why you chose to join thoughts and judgment of so many only one thing –
politics when you knew things to your own self and use them
nothing of it. in a correct way in future. It’s not a
why wasn’t I seen
Politics is an inseparable part of good idea to reveal everything. often in Delhi? I was
life. It does enter in your life in supposed to do a
various forms. Nobody can escape Was it a proactive decision? good job and I did it.
it. I’m still a part of the profession, I think a lot before deciding on
and an active member of anything, be it politics or films.
If my party doesn’t
Parliament. Though I will not Sometimes you visualise things, benefit from me,
contest, I will definitely try to understand the situation and then then why should I
campaign for my party candidates. decide. I think I’m going the right
ask for a seat?”
I think one shouldn’t forget that I way now.
defeated the respected Ram Naik image always helps. Things are
by a huge margin. I’ve given my So you’re saying you may contest going well for him since quite some
best what was in my capacity the next elections? time, like he got married and now
under the given circumstances. I I don’t know. he’s contesting elections and they’re
have completed my tenure. I know (the Samajwadi Party) helping Sanju
people didn’t expect me to enter It’s heard that your family bhaiya. Sanju’s also a very dear
politics or do something like this wanted you to permanently bid friend. He has done lot of good work
ever. But with God’s grace, I could adieu to politics for a really long in the past, which I think nobody
achieve all this. It hurts when you time. Is that true? knows. David (Dhawan) ko director
consistently keep doing good work We never discuss politics at home bananewala Sanju hain. One day he
and people don’t acknowledge or just because they don’t understand called me and said, “Ek Punjabi
praise your style of working. So I it. If they don’t understand it then aadmi ko director banana hain.” It
how could they was very sweet of him. My best
... with Priya Dutt advise me to quit wishes are always with him.
politics?
Being an MP, you would be well
What do you aware of the pressure you face
think of Sanjay from the opposition parties. Did
Dutt as a neta? you ever discuss that with
Do you respect Sanjay?
his decision to Khana pressure mein hi pakta hai
join politics? Do bhaiya. Jokes apart, the pressure
you think his would be there irrespective of the
Gandhigiri and good work Sanju would do. I think
Munnabhai image that’s a part of every profession. You
could win or you have people bad-mouthing or
still believe that bitching about you and trying to put
he should you down. It depends on how Sanju
continue only in deals with such circumstances. We
Bollywood? have never discussed politics though.
Sanjay has grown
up with politics. His Coming back to films, over the
father, the late Sunil years, you’ve been appreciated
Dutt sahab, was for your comic timing. Don’t you
one of the most think playing a grey character in
respected Mani Ratnam’s ‘Ravana’ might
politicians of our work negative for you? Why are
country, and his you getting so desperate?
mother, Nargis But that’s not true. I’m not playing a
Duttji was a great grey character in ‘Ravana’.
social worker. So
politics runs in his You’ve also started smoking. Is it
blood. He because things are not going
understands quite well in your life?
politics. A positive (Laughs again) Not more than once

or twice in a week. But then there’s
no reason to it.
You still haven’t been able to

attain major success in your
second innings in the film
industry. After ‘Partner’, you
ended up choosing the wrong
films. Are you losing
perspective?
Being a part of the industry for
more than two decades, I’ve
worked really hard to carve a niche
for myself and reached a certain
level. I strongly feel that the future
is nothing but collective efforts we
put in today. In my second innings,
I am working really hard to make
sure the audiences love me once
again. And I’m really thankful to my
audiences and fans who have
always supported me. I could have ... with Salman Khan
worked more but couldn’t
concentrate because of politics.
shouldn’t even discuss such things. around during the making of the
You proved that you’re an It’s very sad. ‘CCC’. But then I realised it wasn’t
amateur in politics when you her mistake because she took Priyan
distributed money to people on Your last release ‘Chal Chala at face value. There was a world of
Holi. You were even pulled up Chal’ has resulted in losses to the difference between what was
by your own party for that. extent that you are once again narrated to me and what was shot.
Don’t you know that’s against indebted to some people. Why
the rules? did you even attempt a film like Priyadarshan has vowed not to
In our family, it’s an age-old custom this? work with you again after the
to distribute money to dancers and ‘Chal Chala Chal’ is not my film. I trouble you gave him during
singers during festivals. They come wasn’t convinced even while doing ‘Chal Chala Chal’. As a result, the
to your place with a lot of the film. I spoke to Priyadarshan film was delayed and what came
expectations. And if I help them in about it but then I was in need of out looked like a B-grade
whatever capacity I can then work and not in a position to choose product.
what’s the harm in doing so? Their films. After ‘Bhagam Bhag’, Priyan Nahin aisi koi baat nahi. I’ve just told
blessings are very auspicious. I spoke to my wife Sunita and assured you what went wrong with that film.
respect them. You tell me, is it her that he’d do a solo lead with me.
wrong to help someone who is in He also assured Sunita that he’d be So that means you won’t work
trouble? There are some good souls with Priyadarshan in the future?
who donate money to poor people It depends (smiles).
everyday. I feel people have made “If somebody
it a big issue for no valid reason. Post the incident, big filmmakers
decides not to like Mani Ratnam or others can
So you’re saying you were give you credit easily take you for granted since
attacked only because you’re a for anything then they know you aren’t in a
Member of Parliament? But position to retaliate. Why have
weren’t you aware of the
you can’t go out you made yourself so vulnerable?
norms? of your way to ask You cannot think negative and work.
When people don’t think before it. I supported the One should always think positive.
Nobody can harm you, unless your
doing bad then why should I think Congress when they
before doing something good? If time is bad. If you get good work that
you think too much, you won’t be
required somebody means tumhara time achcha chal
able to do what you want to do. to defeat Ram Naik. raha hain. If your films flop, it doesn’t
Yes, one must do within the Politics is a team mean you are not a good actor or
boundaries of law. People who are people would blame you to be a part
effort. It’s not a one- of the film. It’s a pleasure working
trying to make it an issue are not
from my constituency. They must man show” with Mani Ratnam. Sometimes you
be some roadside beggars. One have disagreements over certain

You also have the knack of being planning to get married and was
in the news for all wrong focusing on that. I think Amrita had
“I haven’t met Rani reasons. some dates issues, which is why she
(Mukherjee) for the Kuch logon ke saath aisa hota hain. didn’t take up the offer. That’s the
I’m one of the fortunate ones (laughs story I know.
last five years. We
sarcastically). Earlier I used to think
are a part of the a lot as to why such things happen You have two sets of rules for
same profession. only to me. Gradually, I learnt not to filmmakers. You make life hell for
So I don’t mind give too much attention. But now I smaller directors but when you
know how to tackle all these things. work with the likes of Mani
working with her One should learn from one’s mistakes Ratnam, you’re discipline
again” and try not to repeat them. personified.
(Laughs) I don’t know why you
things but then you have to rely All the actors of your era are always come up with such weird
on good filmmakers. You shouldn’t playing character roles now. But questions. See, it’s like when you
fight with them and put yourself you still want to play hero. With work with newcomers, you have to
in danger. the younger lot coming in, don’t work harder and be extra cautious to
you feel your days are numbered? make them happy as compared to the
You and Salman don’t see eye- I’m playing an interesting character established filmmakers. They tend to
to-eye anymore. You’re upset in ‘Ravana’. I agree I played the expect a lot from you because they
with him as he didn’t take any second lead in ‘Partner’. However, in are relatively new. After joining
interest in launching your ‘Run Bhola Run’, ‘Naughty At 40’ and politics, I’ve become more lenient.
daughter Narmada after David’s next film, I play the male
Sanjay Leela Bhansali lead. I do a particular film only if You still have a weakness for
promised to do so. How could I get convinced by the script. your heroines. You went to Celina
you forget that Salman got you They all require Govinda; it’s Jaitley’s party and there were
‘Partner’? altered in that way. reports that you ended up
Rubbish. Where do you get to hear staying the night at her house. It
all these things? After Narmada’s You started Jag Mundhra’s became huge news the next day.
accident last year, I wanted her to ‘Naughty At 40’ with
... with daughter Narmada
first come out of the trauma, much fanfare. But it’s
which she bravely did. I was stuck now. First you
really worried then. She considers hassled them for
Salman as a father-figure and dates; now the film
fondly calls him chachu. She’s in has no buyers. Will it
London to pursue her make-up be shelved?
course and she’ll also complete I don’t know. People are
her acting course by July this talking like that. As far
year. Talks are on regarding her as I know, sometime
foray into films. She’s extremely back, the film had no
hard-working and sincere. But financer. I would say
let’s see what destiny has that the producer
planned for her. We’ll have to wait wasted Jagmohan’s and
and watch. my dates. We all had
decided on a month-long
Just a few years ago, you were schedule. And I was
approaching everyone for there. You should ask
work. Once you got it, you this question to the
started throwing tantrums. producer or Jagmohan
Will you never change? Mundhra.
I’ve never troubled any filmmaker
or any person for that matter Jag had major
before or after joining politics. problems getting a
I believe the moment I give a hit girl opposite you.
film, people start talking and First Ayesha Takia
writing negative about me. And refused and even
I know there are some groups in Amrita Rao said no.
Bollywood who don’t like my films None of the new
doing well. I don’t believe in generation girls want
working in groups, which seems to work opposite you.
to be a new trend in Bollywood I think Ayesha didn’t
these days. agree because she was

... with Akshay Kumar Does it mean your party
people didn’t support you?
You see, everybody got busy. I
think every party consists of a
political chain. It’s a simple funda
that either you are accepted by
the chain or you aren’t. Now I’m
more relaxed. The pressure is
gone. When you work with a
fresh mind, you deliver better.
Apparently, Sonia Gandhi is

so upset by your performance
in politics that she has even
refused to meet you. She’s
trying to place Nagma on
your seat. Shah Rukh Khan is
also been considered…
Har cheez ke liye koi kasoor hona
chahiye. When I have proved
myself then how would she
(Soniaji) be upset with me?
During my five years’ tenure, I
Y h toh
Yeh t h kitna
kit purana kissa
ki hain
h i was asked only one thing – why
I don’t
d ’ agree to this.hi When
Wh I won the h
yaar… kya tu bhi (laughs). Some say wasn’t I seen often in Delhi? I
elections, people said it was
that I left the party in between and conveyed the answer and they
destined. I think if somebody decides
then returned later. Whereas others are convinced now. I was
not to give you credit for anything
accused that I was the last person to supposed to do a good job and I
then you can’t go out of your way to
leave Celina’s place. If I was the last did it. If my party doesn’t benefit
ask it. I supported the Congress
one to leave the party, then how from me, then why should I ask
when they required somebody to
could I return? Celina is a dear for a seat? That’s my question.
defeat Ram Naik. Breaking the wall
friend. I think once your on-screen Jitna bada aapka naam ho jaata
and getting into Ram Naik’s territory
chemistry works with a particular hain, utna hi bada objection ho
was not a joke. Politics is a team
actress, you tend to do more films jaata hain. There’s a vast
effort. It’s not a one-man show. I
together. And the hit pair becomes a difference being a good
don’t worry because I’ve been
brand, which also helps for the film’s politician and a good social
accepted by Sonia Gandhiji. So I’m
success. Of late, I vibe really well worker. I don’t want power
happy. Politics is not my business.
with all my heroines – be it Celina, again. I don’t know whether
It’s a duty I am performing because I
Ameesha (Patel), Rimi (Sen) or Nagma or Shah Rukh would
have been asked to. That was more
Lara (Dutta). contest. Somebody would
than enough.
definitely come to power, if not
What about your one-time me. Politics ka bazaar aise hi
favourite Rani Mukherjee? Why garam rehta hain.
haven’t you two signed a film “After ‘Bhagam
Would you ever regret being a
together? Bhag’, Priyadarshan part of the profession?
(With a weary look) I haven’t met
spoke to my wife Never, because I have learnt a lot
Rani for the last five years.
Sunita and assured and got the opportunity to serve
Would you want to work with her that he’d do a people of my constituency.
her again? solo lead with me. He So in a way, this is your third
We are a part of the same profession.
So I don’t mind working with her
also assured Sunita innings in films. Don’t you
again. I haven’t worked with Preity that he’d be around feel you should be in better
shape now?
Zinta for a long time too. during the making of
Yeah, you can say this is my third
‘Chal Chala Chal’. But innings. I’m looking forward to
Your stint in politics is a joke.
You joined politics when your I realized it wasn’t do good films and get a good
film career was over. When you her mistake because physique. I want to lose eight
kilos in two months. Let’s see
got films again, you deserted she took Priyan on how it goes.
politics. No wonder Congress
his face value”
doesn’t want you to contest
this time. Dhiren Trivedi

The
Priyanka--
Kareena
Hostilities
Flare Up
Again!
T
here’s a popular belief (not without good reason) in Bollywood – two actresses can
never be friends. Especially when they’re in the same league, things become all the
more difficult. The professional hostilities more than often start affecting personal
equations. And for today’s blithe and care-a-damn girls, it doesn’t make much of a difference
when the clash becomes public either.
Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra are renowned for their rather volatile camaraderie.
At times, they’ve refused to acknowledge each other’s presence in public. And there have
been instances when they’ve expressed a warm friendship, purely for the cameras’ sake. At
the Max Stardust Awards recently, everyone was not surprised when the two actresses sat
next to each other without even exchanging a polite hello. However when the shutterbugs
closed in, they started talking to each other like long-lost BFFs, proving that they are better
actresses off screen. Within their own coterie, of course, they don’t make any bones about
IS
their rancor.
Over the past few months, the game of one-upmanship has gathered a new momentum.
And everyone’s now wondering whether it’s because of the sudden entry of Bebo’s ex-flame
chocolate-boy Shaahid Kapoor into Priyanka’s life that’s renewed the friction between the
two actresses.
Kareena and Priyanka have always had a very uncertain relationship. Initially, it seemed the
girls shared warm vibes and even went out on double dates together with their respective
boyfriends (Shaahid and Harman Baweja) at that time. They always had good things to say
about each other in print too. Things took an unexpected turn when Kareena,
88
SHAAHID THE REASON?
PHOTO COURTESY: TAG HEUER
on Karan Johar’s popular talk show maintained that
the equation had changed and they were merely
acquaintances now. Even Priyanka was taken
aback when she heard that. Adding insult to the
injury, Bebo took pot-shots at PC’s acting skills in an
interview to a leading daily. But Priyanka was not one
to take an injury lying down and proved she was made
of tougher stuff when she hit back with a vengeance in
a magazine interview when she took a dig at Kareena’s
‘Jab We Met’ success story by stating that the well
deserved kudos came after a wait of eight long years.
And everything rapidly went downhill from this point.
These happenings merely made everyone conclude that
they were never really friends to begin with.
The two stars have always been pitted against each
other because they’ve been the closest contemporaries
for the top crown. The first time the claws were out in
the open was during the making of the Abbas-Mustan
directed film ‘Aitraaz’, starring Akshay Kumar. Even
though Kareena was the bigger star then, Priyanka
walked away with all the awards and accolades thanks
to her negative and glamorously etched out role in the
movie. The war begun when Priyanka maintained she
was the main protagonist of the film while Kareena
stated that she was the leading lady. The girls also
shared an icy cold relationship even when they acted in
‘Don’ together. Kareena only did a special appearance
in the movie, but was more talked about than Priyanka,
who was the lead. Even though they just had a couple
of scenes with each other, the unit was abuzz with tales
about hostilities between the two on the sets. There
were times when even Shah Rukh Khan would crack
jokes about it.
Over the last year, this clash has become more
intense as they race towards the finishing line – the
prize being the much-coveted numero uno position
in Bollywood. Priyanka and Harman were in a steady
relationship when Kareena was approached to do
Harman’s mega-debut ‘Love Story 2050’. Kareena
knowing well that Harman was Piggy Chops’ boyfriend,
put down her terms, perhaps in a bid to dissuade the
producers. She quoted an enormous figure and was
even more surprised when Harry Baweja agreed to it.
However despite that, when Bebo developed cold feet
soon after and walked out of the film, people attributed
that to Priyanka’s presence in Harman’s life. Eventually,
Priyanka stepped into her nemesis’ shoes to salvage the
situation.
One even hears that when boyfriend Saif Ali Khan was
working on his home production with Imtiaz Ali, one of
the director’s choices for the leading role was Priyanka.
But later, Deepika Padukone was pencilled in for the
same role. Insiders insist that the size-zero sensation
PHOTOGRAPH: MAHENDER SONI
had a part to play in that but the Kapoor girl hasn’t ever
spoken about it.
The last few months have been particularly stressful
for both the heroines. And incidentally, it’s all happening
thanks to the entry of Shaahid Kapoor in Priyanka’s life.
A close friend of Kareena discloses, “It’s not that she

BUS
Y GLOBUS
OBUUS
US
PHOTO COURTESY: GLOBUS
LO
GLO
L B
is jealous of Shaahid and Priyanka. Kareena is well
SY:
TO COURTESY:
ESY
over Shaahid and she just wants the best for him. It’s
TE S
bothering her because she believes Priyanka is just not

RT
OUR
URT
the right girl for him.”

CO
C
Kareena has never had an issue with any of the

PHOTO
OT
PHO
HO
O
other girls Shaahid was linked with – Sania Mirza and

PH
PH
Vidya Balan. “In fact, when they bumped into each

other once, Kareena had teased Shaahid about the
many women in his life,” reveals our informer. But she’s
certainly peeved with the Priyanka episode.
The first time this came to the fore was when
Shaahid hosted a party to celebrate his birthday at a
popular suburban five-star hotel. It’s a small world, and
via Shaahid and Kareena’s common friends, she heard
about how the Chopra lass was taking charge of the
entire party and officiating as the hostess. Kareena was
shocked when she heard that the former Miss World
was calling the guests herself and was taking care of
the minutest details, as if she wanted to make sure
nothing went wrong for her man on his special day.
“What upsets Kareena is the fact that Priyanka is not
acknowledging her relationship with Shaahid. Shaahid
doesn’t mind going public but Priyanka doesn’t want
to. By doing this, Kareena feels Priyanka is demeaning
Shaahid. She doesn’t want Shaahid to go through what
happened with Harman,” says our source. Kareena
decided to hit back by having her own party on the
same night. It was a last minute call and some of the
guests were obviously common. So they all had to
eventually shuttle between the two venues.
The belligerence blew through the roof and came
into full public eye finally a week later at Ali Morani’s
party. Kareena came with Saif and the two were (as
usual) glued to one another. Then when Priyanka made
an entry with Shaahid (probably their first official public
appearance together) – they had everyone talking in
hushed whispers on whether they had finally decided to
go public with their relationship. Naturally, the highlight
of the night was when the two couples came face to
face in front of everyone – and they just looked through
each other and walked away, without even exchanging
pleasantries. It was the talk of the evening – how
Priyanka and Kareena gave each other the royal snub.
Like a designer friend of Kareena puts it, “Bebo is
hopelessly in love with Saif. But she also feels very
protective of Shaahid. They have been in touch and
she wants good things to happen to him. She just feels
Priyanka isn’t the right one for him and the sooner he
realises it, the better it is for him.” This just goes to
prove that even though Bebo is not a part of Shasha’s
life, she’s still concerned for his welfare and obviously
wants just the best things for him in life.
What started out as a modified catfight between
two actresses is slowly reaching the proportions of
“Bebo is hopelessly in love with Saif. But she a full-blown battle. It seems, at this point, the only
also feels very protective of Shaahid... She just person who can do anything to even remotely
salvage the situation is Shaahid Kapoor, by
feels Priyanka isn’t the right one for him and standing up and reclaiming his life. Shasha, are
the sooner he realises it, the better it is for him” you listening?

PHOTOGRAPHS: VICKKY IDNANI; MAKE-UP: SUBHASH;
HAIR: BABITA JOHN; OUTFIT & STYLING: KOMAL SHAHANI
92
Stardust May 2009
EESHA
KOPPIKHAR UNVEILS HER
PRINCE CHARMING
“He’ll
Be An
Amazing
Husband”
I t’s always
interesting to
meet people in
love. They offer
you a perspective drenched with
optimism, brimming with
positivity, interlaced with tons of
zeal and heck, they’re just plain
happy about life in general. The
euphoria of love, and the
sensations that being in love
bring up about are very
infectious. Try having
a conversation with someone
who’s enjoying the first flush of
romance. You’ll come away
thinking the whole world is
indeed a better place and that
happily ever after with that
someone special truly does exist.
that I found out about it”, she discloses.
Sounds pretty romantic right? Well, this
is just the beginning.
Was it attraction or love at first sight
with Rohit? Any tingling feelings or
butterflies in the stomach? Or even
better, was there any musical symphony
playing in the background every time
they met, a la Bollywood? “When we
first met, there was zero attraction
from my side,” she reveals, gesturing
with a downside thumb. “But eventually,
as we got to know each other better,
it developed into something more.”
Everyone has a past. And it’s a lot harder
to conceal when you’re a public figure.
Especially when you’re an actress who’s
had her fair share of controversies.
Did that cause initial hiccups in their
romance? “See, the thing is that both
of us are not the kind of people who
I certainly did after meeting “No matter where we are, would grudge one another their past or
Eesha Koppikhar. She looks svelte he always holds my hand; bring it up. There was always a healthy
and absolutely stunning even never lets it go. He’s very exchange of conversation from both our
sans make-up. And she’s got to
be one of the most chilled out
romantic. Whenever I’m sides, and we didn’t hide things from
each other. There is a great amount
and easy-going actresses, nay, shooting, he always of mutual respect and trust in our
make that person, I’ve met of late. makes it a point to send relationship,” Eesha explains.
Love is completely working for me flowers or a cake Speaking of scandals, it’s a little
her, as she’s got this exhilarated wherever I am” — Eesha difficult to not mention the white
glow. So naturally, we dive elephant in the room that goes by the
headfirst into the interview with name of Inder Kumar. Apparently, Eesha
the person who’s responsible for was pulling herself out of her earlier
that perpetual smile on her face tumultuous relationship with him when
– Rohit Narang. Rohit happened to her. Did his presence
Better known as Timmy to his affect her relationship with Inder? Is she
friends, Rohit is a well-known still in touch with him? She clarifies that
hotelier who manages the elite point saying, “I had already moved on
Ambassador Group of Hotels that is responsible for airline catering as well. So where and it was clear in my mind that it was
did Eesha bump into him? “We’d run into each other at the gym. But it was just a casual over for good. Rohit happened much
hi, hello and we never really spoke to each other. Then, I met him properly at this special later, so the question of him affecting
sit-down dinner he’d organised. After that, we started text-messaging and mailing each our relationship isn’t valid. But no, I’m
other as he was at Harvard finishing an additional degree. And we just hit it off really not in touch with him.”
well. He’s the most honest, giving, sensitive, caring and fun guy with a great sense of Most actresses are still coy when
humour and a complete people’s person. We have started formally dating each other it comes to that special man in their
sometime in June last year”, she rattles on, her heart in her eyes. life. They’d rather play the laughably
Not many know, but it seems as if Eesha and Rohit were meant to be. Too many predictable ‘We’re just good friends’ card
people around them thought they were perfect together and tried to play Cupid. For than own up. However, Eesha and Rohit
starters, there was Preity Zinta, her co-star from the upcoming movie ‘Har Pal’. The two have never made any effort to ‘hide’
actresses bonded big time, with Preity even going so far as to declare that were Eesha their relationship. So whose decision
a guy, she would’ve definitely gotten hitched to her. Well, since that obviously wasn’t was it to go public? “There was nothing
the case, she thought her friend Rohit would do perfectly for Eesha as they were pretty to hide. We go together for events and
similar and tried to set them up. What she didn’t know, however, that was Eesha and we’re photographed together so there
Rohit were already well acquainted (and reasonably interested in each other too). Then has never been any conscious decision
there was fitness trainer Leena Mogre, who had been specifically asked by Rohit to get to go public as such. It was never a goal
Eesha for the sit-down dinner. “The thing is, at that time I had no idea. It was only later to avoid the paparazzi,” she clarifies. It’s

generally assumed that being in love is the any problems thanks to what could be obvious discrepancies
best thing ever to happen to anyone. And because of the environment they come from? “As far as Rohit
it changes people. Usually for good. Does is concerned, I’ve never faced any such issues. We have a lot of
she feel Rohit has changed ever since she’s honesty and communication between us and there’s very little place
come into his life? “His friends tell me he’s for misunderstandings. He’s a very affable guy who won’t judge
mellowed down, is more responsible and you. And even though I’m from the film fraternity, I’ve always lived
has never been more in love. This is what with my parents. So there’s nothing typically filmi about me. ”This
his friends have to say. I really don’t know is when Rohit intervenes via phone stating, “It’s not backgrounds
myself though,” she shrugs charmingly. that matter but values. Eesha and I have similar values and that’s why
Rohit sounds like the perfect catch; we connect.”
he’s good-looking, well-established and And what kind of a relationship does she share with his family?
successful, charming, talented and the “It’s cordial, comfortable and getting better with time. His folks are
list goes on. But how high does he rate very sweet and I get along very well with them.” She’s indeed very
on the romance scale? Eesha blushingly fond of them and she has a hard time containing her glee as she tells
admits, “No matter where we are, he me how his sister Ramona has just delivered adorable twins.
always holds my hand; never lets it go. He’s Rohit is in a profession where he mingles with beautiful women all
very romantic. Whenever I’m shooting, he the time. Also, he’s a great guy and very easy on the eyes. Sounds like
always makes it a point to send me flowers a perfect recipe for insecurities. So does she have any? “I happen to
or a cake wherever I am. He even sends know what a great combo I am,” she quips with a ready smile. “We’re
gifts to my staff. And it’s not just grand at a stage where we know each other inside out. And that way if you
romantic gestures. He’s very thoughtful and go to see, even in my profession, I’m constantly working with good-
extremely attentive about small everyday looking actors. The truth is, Rohit and I are very comfortable with
life things. That’s what matters the most.” each other. So there’s honestly no place for petty insecurities. ”
So what’s the most romantic things he’s And anything she’d like to change about her Mr Perfect? “One
done for her? “Well, on my birthday, he’d thing I definitely want to change about him is that I wish he’d love
organised a special dinner in his garden animals more. He doesn’t get along with my dog Mowgli at all. They
with lots of candles and great food just just can’t stand to be in the same room together. But that’s because
for the two of us. Since it was a bit hot, he’s allergic to dog-hair,” she bursts out laughing.
he’d also kept an air-cooler. But that kept The thing with actors is, they’re always under scrutiny and
blowing the candles out. So finally he was come with excess baggage, not all of which is pleasant. Under
like, ‘Baby, either you want the cool breeze, circumstances, it’s natural to develop generic prejudices against
or the candles’. I think it was really sweet, them and everyone has their own conceptions or misconceptions
the way he went through all that trouble,” regarding actors. As a result of this, most men are quite wary about
she tinkles with laughter as she reminisces. dating an actress. So did Rohit have any misgivings about dating an
The couple already works out together. actress? “Like I said, he’s not a judgemental guy. Yet, in my chosen
Eesha confides that they’re looking forward profession where I’m mostly under limelight, things get blown out
to joining cooking classes together now. of proportion. People say ten thousand things. He hears things from
A couple that eats and stays fit together, people. But, when you love someone so much, you always put
stays together eh? them before yourself. Rohit and I share our fears, likes, dislikes and
Eesha and Rohit come from extremely clear out stories we’ve heard about each other. When I remember
diverse background. It’s a classic case of something embarrassing that I want him to know, I make it a point to
a business-based family meeting someone share it with him. We talk things out,” she explains.
filmi yet grounded. Did the couple face The natural progression of most serious relationships results in
marriage. Eesha’s also been on quite a long professional hiatus. Is
all this in preparation for an impending wedding announcement
for the happy twosome? “Well, I always keep hearing about my
wedding details from other people”, she chortles with laughter. But
immediately sobers up, “My relationship with Rohit is my top priority.
Marriage will happen eventually when it has to. Whatever happens,
happens for the best. All I can say is that, I’m very happy.”
And what kind of a husband does she think he’ll make? “I think
“It’s not backgrounds that he’ll be an amazing husband. He pampers me and takes care of me
matter but values. Eesha immensely. And I can talk to him about everything under the sun.” Her
and I have similar happiness is infectious and I leave her place, happier and in general
overjoyed with the world. That’s what love does to you, I guess.
values and that’s why
we connect” Manasi Rawalgaonkar
— Rohit (Timmy) Narang

HAS BOLLYWOOD
GIVEN
MADHAVAN A
RAW DE
T
his ind
industry
str lo
loves
es to compartmentalise actors and bind
them within the perimeters of their own talent.
Someone is tagged a realistic actor; someone gets
labelled a hunk; someone’s bracketed only in negative roles
while someone’s horizons are restricted only to comedy. They
love branding you because that saves them the trouble of
experimenting with something new. Who has the time, energy,
patience and inclination to venture into uncharted waters?
“At Least They Haven’t

AL
Written Me Off”
So what happens to an actor like and I am still a boy.”
M
Madhavan in a scenario like this?
Surely, he isn’t your regular bubble-
“All Tamil film heroes If you think the
humility is a farce,
gum hero. He’s not a box-office have moustaches; they’re Madhavan is ready to
badshah. Neither does he fit into any change that perception
of the pre-existing grooves of this dark complexioned and too. “It was never a
industry. He does very few Hindi films
but most of the times, he stumps us
have been having struggle for me in films.
I do not know why
with his inspiring portrayals – be it a six-packs and eight-packs people want to
bit part in Mani Ratnam’s ‘Guru’ or romanticise the fact
the lead role in the recently released even before Aamir. that I was struggling to
taut thriller ’13 B’. Madhavan has
never failed to make an impact and
So in that aspect, I make it big. I still have
not made it big. I still
that’s really what distinguishes him shouldn’t be a hero” have a long way to go.
from the rest. A movie has to break
But is Bollywood ready to accept certain boundaries. I
him in this avatar? Despite having viewpoint of the big picture. “I always have been in the industry for 10
everything going for him (he also has wanted to be an actor but I was very years and before that, I had done
an enormous fan following thanks to sceptical because I don’t know how five years of television where I was
his superstardom down South), why to dance. I have 15 left feet,” he says readily accepted. I was like destiny’s
has the Hindi film industry given him laughingly. “I can’t dance to save my child. I just got opportunities over
a raw deal? Why is Madhavan not life; I can’t sing and I don’t have a opportunities and people seemed to
getting the kind of work he de- six-pack either. I don’t think people like what I was doing and started
serves? found me good looking when I joined calling me an actor. I became a
I meet the actor to analyse this the industry. Hrithik Roshan is great small-time TV star. And just when I
aspect of his career and he quite looking; I’m not as good as him or thought life could not be any better,
promptly gives me an insight into his Salman Khan. These guys are men I got a Mani Ratnam film. That was
... with Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy

of success then what the hell! At
least they have not written me off.
Most of the people who came in and
joined at the same time as me have
changed professions,” he says in jest.
But things seemed to have
changed for Madhavan after ’13 B’.
Like he puts it, “The ratios have
changed drastically and I’m now
doing a lot more Hindi movies than
before,” he says. “Earlier too, I was
very busy trying to establish myself
in Tamil movies. Then of course I
wanted to come back to Hindi films
because I am comfortable with the
language. Since I was born in Bihar, I
speak better Hindi than most people
in Mumbai can,” he states with
confidence.
For someone who claims to believe
in quality cinema and who has done
films down South in a more profes-
... with Kamal Haasan sional working arena, does he fit into
the mould of a typical Hindi film
enough for me to start looking at hero? Madhavan doesn’t
M
myself as an actor.” “I can’t dance to save mince words when he
After the Mani Ratnam movie, says, “Today, people are
there was no looking back for my life; I can’t sing and going out to watch good
Madhavan and he became one of the
most formidable stars in the South.
I don’t have a six-pack movies; it doesn’t matter
who the actor is. There
Most people believe it’s this factor either. Hrithik Roshan could be Anupam Kher,
that works against him in Bollywood. Jimmy Shergill and
No male star from the South has is great looking; I’m Naseeruddin Shah in a film
really made it big here – Rajnikanth
and Kamal Haasan included. “I don’t
not as good as him or and it could turn out to be
a blockbuster or it could
think that’s the case because I went Salman Khan. These be a rank newcomer in a
from Mumbai to the South. The point film like ‘Aamir’ or an
is just to make good films; where guys are men and I am established star-cast in
you’re from doesn’t really matter.
And even if any film of mine hasn’t
still a boy” ‘Raaz-2’ or ‘Ghajini’. I think
it depends entirely on the
worked, nobody has said it’s because movie. Even I, as an
I’m from the South,” he states firmly. De Basanti’ or ‘Dil Vil Pyaar Vyaar’ or audience, will never
Today, we’re talking once again even ‘Ramji Londonwale’. They all discriminate while watching a movie
about Madhavan because of his have a certain standard of their own simply because I don’t have an actor
literal one-man-show in the just and I am pretty proud about these that I would like to see in it. I will still
released ’13 B’. The film may have movies. At the end of the day, I’m go and watch ‘Aamir’ or ‘Rang De
received a mixed response at the happy that I am still being offered Basanti’ or ‘Taare Zameen Par’ and
box-office but nobody can deny solo-hero leads and am still doing despite all the video piracy all these
Madhavan’s contribution to it. He Hindi movies after 10 years. I don’t films make so much money. It only
carried the film on his own shoulders know how many actors can claim of goes to show that people really care
and did a fantastic job of it. “The film doing that. What I am trying to tell to watch these movies in the
made sure that I could pull off a main you is that I have been in the theatres. I haven’t yet seen a
lead in a movie and still make it a industry for 15 years and people still fantastic film that was released and
viable option,” he admits proudly. “I consider me as a newcomer, which is didn’t make money at the box-office.”
would not call it a comeback. I have a brilliant place to be in. It’s a That’s also the reason why a
been always doing quality films. Be it fabulous advantage. When everyone six-pack doesn’t fascinate Maddy. “I
‘Mumbai Meri Jaan’ or ‘Guru’ or ‘Rang is still thinking I am at the threshold don’t have a six-pack yet. But if it is

films, which he isn’t talking about as
of now. He’s flying high right now and
the numbers game seems to excite
him at this stage of his career. “Who
doesn’t want to be the box-office
king?” he asks and the adds, “But
when you do become a king in terms
of your collections, you have thou-
sand things to worry about. I don’t
think I have the qualifications to be a
box-office king. It does not excite me.
I just want to make sure that my film
is sold at the right price and released
at the right time and most important-
ly, the producers who invest in me
should finally make money. See, after
15 years in the industry, I am still here
and that is a huge achievement in my
opinion. I could do an Airtel ad with
Vidya Balan and that gets talked
about. It’s the only national ad, which
I have at this point in time. The fact
that my films are not ringing cash
registers or raining money has not
affected me much. Who doesn’t want
to get there and if there’s any reason
why I want to get there, it’s because I
... with Neetu Chandra
want to make bigger and better films.
M
required, I’ll get it. But I I want to be a part of any film that will
don’t think my six-pack “Most of the people who go into the archives as a good film,”
will get me a hit. A good he explains.
story will. However, if a came in and joined at the But one thing’s for sure. Irrespec-
role requires me to look tive of the kind of money and fame
powerful, I will certainly same time as me have Hindi films have in store for him,
do it,” he assures. changed professions.” Madhavan insists he’ll never desert
Madhavan comes the industry that’s made him what
across as an overtly he is today. “I will still be doing
chilled out guy. And in masters in advertising and public South Indian films,” he declares.
the day and age of publicity-driven relations. I was not meant to be an “They are my bread and butter.
hits, will his laidback attitude work actor. I didn’t know how to dance or Money is not important because I
against him? “It is important how how to sing. I don’t look like a Hindi get paid much more in the Hindi film
well you sell the films because the film hero. I don’t even look like a industry. In the South, you get to do
opening that a film draws today is Tamil film hero. All Tamil film heroes so many different types of movies
very important. It all depends on how have moustaches; they’re dark with such amazing technicians. I will
your PR skills are because they keep complexioned and have been having never think of leaving Tamil films
you alive in the industry. People can six-packs and eight-packs even just like the way I will never think of
think of casting or not casting you. before Aamir. They have the best leaving India. It’s one thing nobody
All in all, the project has to be bodies that have come out in the has every done before but I will
conceived well, made well and past four years. So in that aspect, I keep doing it,” he states firmly. It’s
received well. I have always been a shouldn’t be a hero. I also got this single-minded dedication that
part of an ensemble cast and married before I came in the industry. really separates this actor from the
experimenting with films. I am not But I am here still getting solo leads.” rest. That’s exactly what makes a
scared of anything. I was not Madhavan is already on a roll now lambi race ka ghoda – in pure filmi
supposed to be a part of this – his next attractions include ‘Teen terminology. And for Madhavan, the
industry. I was never trained to be an Patti’ with Amitabh Bachchan, ‘Three race has just begun.
actor. I was qualified to be a trained Idiots’ with Aamir Khan, Anand Rai’s
electronic graduate and have my ‘Tanu Weds Manu’ and some untitled Sunaina Chandran

Will Preity-Ness

for a
It’s an industry where every relationship is

short-lived – personal or professional. And that’s
why when we see a long-lasting love story that
spans over a period of time, it seems all the more
heart-rending. We want it to last; we want the
romance to linger on forever. But this is life, after
all – meaner, tougher and far severe than movies
can ever be. Where there’s life, there’s pain. And
nothing is as painful as heartbreak after a long
innings of togetherness.
Ever since Preity Zinta and young industrialist
Ness Wadia made their relationship public, it was
the cynosure of all eyes. For the outside world, it
seemed like the perfect match. She was the
classy diva from the movie business; he was the
heir to an illustrious legacy. But the picture is no
longer perfect because much to the chagrin of
Come Back Together?

everyone who knows the couple, they
have called it quits. And the most
shocking part of this split is that it was
Preity who ended the relationship.
Ness and Preity had been going
steady for a long time – over four years
to be precise. Way back in 2005, after
Preity had broken up with her previous
boyfriend Lars, it was rumoured that
she was dating a mystery guy with
whom she had been spotted often.
Later, it turned out the man in question
was actually the one who was
instrumental in introducing the actress
to Ness at a social event.
The couple hit it off from day one.
Unlike other Bollywood beauties, Preity
has always been highly articulate,
outgoing, well read and well informed.
Their sensibilities matched and there
was no stopping the duo once they
“Even if I wanted
clicked on a personal level. The news of so he never felt threatened by anyone,”
their liaison first became public when reveals our source.
Ness accompanied Preity to Australia for to go out anywhere Considering they were so much in
the outdoor shooting stint of ‘Salaam
Namaste’, in which he even made a
with anyone, I love with each other and also associ-
ated in business together, Preity
fleeting appearance on her insistence. certainlly wouldn n’t believed it was the right time to take a
Preity also never tried to hide their do it durinng a step ahead. Like a friend of the actress
relationship – once she was convinced says, “You can’t keep pushing a
that Ness was the man for her, she went fashion week k. I’m relationship to a point of no return.
all the way. They were soon spotted pretty honest about Ness had always told Preity he was
arm-in-arm at social events, posing
together for the cameras, oblivious to the
my life. If I want to committed to her. But they soon
started drifting apart.”
world. Ness took a step forward when he live with someone orr “One had heard of some tension
introduced her to his family and they
something, I’lll come brewing between Preity and Maureen
accepted his choice. Preity soon became Wadia after a point. There was also
a familiar face at the Wadia residence – out myself and say it news that they both had a major
she bonded well with his mother aloud” – Preity Zinta showdown once. She hoped that Ness
Maureen and also his brother Jeh. would not be dragged into it but he
But four years is a long time for an However, according to sources close was. And that created further friction
actress to be in a relationship, to the actress, Ness wasn’t ready for it. between them,” states our source.
especially someone who looked And perhaps that’s the reason why Almost three months ago, Preity
forward to take this commitment to a they started having frequent fights decided enough was enough. That’s
new level. Over the last two years, over the last year or so. In fact, after when she ended the relationship on
Preity had been cutting down on her the last season of the Indian Premier her terms. She didn’t want to make it
work assignments. She started drifting League (IPL), things just kept getting ugly because she still cared for Ness.
away from commercial cinema sour between the couple. Preity and But she couldn’t play the second fiddle
because it took away a lot of her time, Ness are business partners in the Kings in his life any longer. “Ness was
which she needed to spend on herself XI Punjab team. Much was written shocked when she told him her
and Ness. She started doing offbeat about Preity’s on-field show of decision. They spoke about it at length.
films like ‘The Last Lear’, ‘Heaven On affection with cricketers like Yuvraj Finally, for the sake of whatever they
Earth’ and ‘Har Pal’ focusing more on Singh. But unlike reports, that had had shared in the past, they decided to
performances rather than the scale of nothing to do with her problems with go on a break. Right now, they’re not
the films. The transition was deliberate Ness. “At that time, things were still together. They are leading their
– the idea was to gradually move out as good between them. Ness never took separate lives. If this suits them fine,
she prepared for the eventual culmina- any of those reports seriously. He they’ll go on with their lives. But if this
tion of any relationship – matrimony. knows Preity is an affectionate person break makes them realise they cannot

do without each other, they may just “Nesss and Preitty are too much in love with
come back together after a point.”
The timing also couldn’t have been ea
ach other to o go their own ways. They’ve just
more interesting. The IPL has taken off decided to o give each some space and time.
and Preity is busy with her team. She
and Ness have decided that they won’t
They’re simply crrazy about each other and
let their break-up affect their business they’lll be a cou
uple again soon”
association. But of course, Ness would
take as much of a backseat as far as phase. “They are too much in love with return, new allegations fly in my face,”
the team is concerned to avoid each other to go their own ways,” says she says angrily.
complications between the two. one of them. “Preity also knows this Preity even threatened to sue a local
Preity is enjoying her single status all and maybe that’s why she is not tabloid when it highlighted a story on
over again. When she had her birthday making it public. She is the kind of her alleged romance with Chatwal.
bash recently, all her friends joined her person who would never hide her Not willing to take things lying down
in the revelry. Ness was missing but at relationship status. But for the first anymore, she hits back, “They’re say-
that time, she hadn’t told anyone of the time, she’s doing this. We wouldn’t be ing this because I was cheering for
situation between the two. When they surprised if they get back a month later Vikram Chatwal at the recent fashion
asked her, she only said he was out of and sort out all their differences.” week. How ridiculous is that? When I
cheered for Shah Rukh Khan, no one
questioned me as to why I cheered
him the most. At the fashion week,
there were also Arjun and Mehr Ram-
pal, Rahul Bose, Ujjwala Raut – all fa-
mous celebrities and my friends; and
I cheered all of them. I cheered be-
cause the show was for Mumbai. The
show was to see if Mumbai had the
spirit or not. The message being,
‘Come to Mumbai, do your business.
We don’t get scared. We will live our
lives the way we want to!’ That’s why
I was supporting people at that show.
Not for any other reason. And even if
I wanted to go out anywhere with
anyone, I certainly wouldn’t do it dur-
ing a fashion week. I’m pretty honest
about my life. If I want to live with
someone or something, I’ll come out
myself and say it aloud,” she states
sounding furious.
Well, only her near and dear ones
know what the truth is. “Right now,
due to the break she and Ness have
given each other, Preity cannot even
talk about the current situation,” says
town. It was only at Karan Johar’s party Meanwhile, as she’s coping with life a friend. “They’ve just decided to give
a month ago that the buzz became as a single woman again, rumours each some space and time. They’re
stronger. Ness was in town and Preity abound regarding her new alliances. simply crazy about each other and
made a solo appearance. Then, a While some speak of Preity’s growing they’ll be a couple again soon. All this
couple of weeks back, she came single friendship with IPL head honcho Lalit stupid hearsay will stop once that
at Manish Malhotra’s party during the Modi (reports say he’s besotted by her), happens.”
fashion week and tongues started others are linking her with New York- Preity’s heart still belongs to Ness
wagging again. After a point, she too based hotelier Vikram Chatwal. Preity Wadia. If and when they come back
decided there was no point hiding the has taken severe objection to any such together – that’s just a matter of
truth any longer. link-ups. “It’s almost as if every time I’m time now. But it will happen
But according to close friends of the out of the country, a new story is being sooner than expected. Remem-
couple, this may just be a temporary cooked up about me. And each time I ber, you read it first in ‘Stardust’.

LOOKING BEYOND
THE FUTU

RE
Nothing can equal the zeal of a father launching his
son in any profession. In Bollywood too, like last
year, Harry Baweja introduced his son Harman, this
year, producer Vashu Bhagnani is all set to launch his
son Jackky with ‘Kal Kissne Dekha’ in a role that is
endearing as well as challenging.
Kahaani kuch is tarah hai being in danger. Just in the nick of

ki… time, he saves her life and his secret
Jackky aka Nihal Singh from gets exposed. The media and TV
Chandigarh is an unconventional channels highlight it as breaking news.
boy. As per his nature, he Meesha softens towards him and love
questions everything and blossoms. What Nihal doesn’t know is
builds complicated gadgets in that someone is trying to use his gift
his spare time. He’s glad when against him. In his innocence, he is
he becomes a student of the manipulated and his visions become
most elite institute of science in a tool. Will betrayal be his fate or will
Mumbai. Nihal has a secret gift – Nihal’s brilliant mind recognise the
he can see the future. When he traitor before he destroys everything
tries to explain it to his friends, that Nihal loves? That’s what ‘Kal
nobody takes him seriously. Kissne Dekha’ is all about.
On the contrary, he is ragged
by his seniors and insulted The new star son on the rise
by Meesha, the girl he likes. “I wanted to start with a film based on
Nihal’s world gets interrupted an underdog,” says debutant Jackky,
when he gets visions of Meesha “because relating to the subject was

easy. In my case, the biggest challenge scene. I had to say something to Rishiji
was to lose weight. I was mentally and it was a wide angle shot. It was
disheartened and wanted to reduce followed by a close-up shot. And Rishiji
but it ended up being more difficult was ready even while the director
than I had imagined. I finally managed was explaining. After that I just looked
to lose 60 kilos and till date that at Rishiji and he understood what I
has been my biggest achievement. meant and he helped me to do it in
In everyday life, we all are more or just the first take. Actors like him are
less like underdogs struggling to get not what they are just like that. There’s
somewhere. So, in a way, everyone something in them which has brought
relates with an underdog theme. The them to that level.”
love story is a sub-plot,” says the Producer Vashu Bhagnani is always
debutant actor and adds further, “It known for his lavishly mounted films
was a great learning process. You learn and extravagant music launches. ‘Out
lot of things while reading but when Of Control’ was launched in a plane
you practically do it, you correct it. and ‘Vaada’ was launched on a cruise.
There was a vast difference between But things were different this time, as
my first and last schedule.” he says, “When you start the movie
And what was papa Vashu’s reaction with a newcomer, it becomes very
to his first shot? “He heaved a sigh of difficult to convince people about the
relief considering that I was at least scale of the film. Also, we started the
decent. I hope he liked it and I hope movie in South Africa so it was a bit
I don’t let him down because he has difficult to take people over there. I felt
really supported me emotionally and it would be better to finish the project
financially. In this time of economic and then come straightaway to the
crisis, he has made a 25 crore movie point. We had enough time to do a lot
with a newcomer with big grandeur.
The film also has some amazing special “I couldn’t have asked for anything more. My film
effects. As a son and as a newcomer, I
couldn’t have asked for anything more.
is as good as an Akshay Kumar or a Shah Rukh
My film is as good as an Akshay Kumar Khan film in terms of production”
or a Shah Rukh Khan film in terms of — Jackky Bhagnani
production,” he beams proudly.
Trust Vashu to make his son’s film never met him before. Sanju sir has of special promotional activities. I’m
memorable with several Bollywood just done one cameo song. No matter planning for a big premiere in a unique
actors like Rishi Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, how good a dancer I am but I ended way, which people would definitely
Juhi Chawla and Riteish Deshmukh up looking like a fool in the frame with talk about.”
making special appearances. “I know him. Every scene with Rishiji was a Being a proud father, Vashu says,
Sanju sir for a really long time but I remembrance and I would cherish it “For me, Jackky is the only USP
was extra scared with the thought all my life. I was really shocked to see because he has really worked hard
of working with Rishiji because I had him perform some intense scenes to get everything in place in order to
so effortlessly. start working on the movie. Before
My scenes are the movie releases, I’ll release a small
most natural with promo of Jackky on how he used to
him and Archana look when he was 130 kilos. It’s a direct
Puran Singh message to the audience that if he
because they are can then why can’t you? He has done
so good that you a fantastic job. I hope people would
forget that you’re love the film because it’s a very youth-
acting,” says oriented subject. When you culminate
Jackky. ‘Kaho Na Pyaar Hain’ and ‘Jaane Tu Ya
Jaane Na’, the colour that will come
How Jackky got out would be ‘Kal Kissne Dekha’.”
bowled over by After a shaky start with ‘Bhootnath’,
Rishi Kapoor! what prompted director Vivek Sharma
Jackky says, “It to go for this movie? The director
was a classroom says, “I met Vashuji through a friend.

“There are few surprises but we would
like to keep it as a surprise. Let the
public discover it in the film. Jab film
release hogi toh pata chalega, SRK aur
Abhishek hain ki nahi.”
Money is not an issue with Sanjay

Dutt
Big actors are known to step out of
projects mid-way through filming
on grounds of money differences.
But Sanjay Dutt is an exception.
“Sanju didn’t charge anything even
for my last film ‘Shaadi No 1’ where
he played a very important role,”
says Vashu. “He was never bothered
“I’ll release a small promo of Jackky on how he used about money unlike the other
to look when he was 130 kilos. It’s a direct message stars, who act only after the money
matters are resolved. Sanjay was
to the audience that if he can then why can’t you?” shooting director Ajay Chandok’s
— Vashu Bhagnani film in Cape Town and since we were

also shooting in the nearby location,
I narrated him the subject keeping I went to meet him. Fortunately, they
Saif Ali Khan in mind. Then he told me were not shooting the next day, so he
about his son Jackky. I liked Jackky and and Ajay visited the sets.” Didn’t he
we clicked immediately. It’s purely on offer him money? “I don’t have the
the basis of emotional attachment that guts to offer him the money because
I did ‘Kal Kissne Dekha’.” Elaborating he’s a very good friend and considers
further, he says, “I always wanted to Jackky as his younger brother. It
work on unique subjects. So I had this doesn’t look nice.”
story of a boy who could see the future
or gets visions. It’s my own story as in The producer versus multiplex issue
real life I see things before it happen. won’t affect the film’s release
I converted that into an interesting The battle between the producers
screenplay and made a few changes. and multiplex owners has reached
That’s how we started the film.” blessed to have worked with Rishiji a new high with the former making
Vivek adds, “Rishi Kapoor plays the and Amitji in my first two films.” About it very clear that no new Bollywood
most interesting character. And how Jackky, he says, “He is a natural and film would be released after April
he becomes Nihal’s guru forms an that’s his strength. He is very hard- first week. ‘Kal Kissne Dekha’ was
interesting chapter in the film.” He working and has a sense of cinema. one of the first films to arrive in the
shares his experiences working with He understands a nuance and that’s first week but Vashu insists, “If, by any
Rishi and Sanjay Dutt. “Sanju baba is rare in newcomers. He will do very chance, the distributors, exhibitors or
a sweetheart. When I reminded him well and I really wish that he works the production companies decide to
that I worked as an assistant director with good directors.” postpone it then it would be a different
in ‘Gumrah’ (directed by Mahesh thing. If my movie gets delayed for two
Bhatt) he was more than happy. With Are Shah Rukh Khan and Abhishek weeks, every other movie would get
Rishiji, my bonding is on an emotional Bachchan the surprise packages? delayed. It would be the multiplexes’
level. When I went to him to narrate For some time, the buzz doing the loss. I’m with the industry, so I have to
‘KKD’, he thought I was offering him rounds is that director Vivek has stand by with it,” informs Vashu.
the hero’s father’s part. But when I approached SRK and Abhishek to do With Vashu holding the reigns, one
told him the story he got excited. He cameos in the film. Now if we jog our thing’s for sure – he’ll sure make a lot
told me that he was craving for this memory to the filmmaker’s debut film, of noise about the film. As for whether
kind of role since the last 30 years. we know that he had roped in Shah Jackky turns out to be the industry’s
He is an amazing actor and a great Rukh for a special appearance. So no next poster boy, well, kal kissne dekha.
human being. For the film, he broke prizes for guessing that Shah Rukh is We’re keeping our fingers crossed.
all his rules – shooting till late night again going to make an appearance
and coming early mornings. I am in Vivek’s ‘KKD’. The director says, Dhiren Trivedi

The Real King and scoops are more
interesting and so are
It was a surprise to see the photographs. I’m still
Aamir Khan on the April waiting for the day when
issue. After decades, Stardust comes up
Aamir finally graced the with eye-catching and
cover and the spicy story beautiful photoshoots
made for an interesting like other magazines.
read. It is a known fact Stardust has lots of
that Shah Rukh Khan’s PR good content, but I
machinery makes him the feel you fall behind
most talked about star in when it comes to beauty. Her interviews are
the industry today. ‘Ghajini’ good supporting a treat to read and she
is the biggest hit in the photographs. looks like million bucks
history of Indian films Also, was very on screen. It takes real
and ‘Rab Ne surprised to see a pro- courage to speak about
Bana Di Jodi’s Aamir Khan story and that your gay boyfriend. She
collections too on the cover. Are you fully supported the man
were nowhere earned him great respect guys turning over a new despite knowing about
compared among the film lovers. leaf? Surprisingly, while the his sexual preferences. I
to it. Another Akshay Arora pages inside looked good; think her career is on the
blow to SRK’s (New Delhi) the cover itself looked right track now and her
prestige was very boring, staid and powerful performance in
the dismal Revamp! old. Maybe its time for a ‘Golmaal Returns’ has
collections of designing makeover. made her to remain in the
‘Billu’. Despite the fact I’ve been a big fan Allu Govind news. She was compared
that the film petered out of Stardust. I’m very (Chennai) to the legendary Zeenat
at the box office, SRK’s happy that you guys Aman when she appeared
paid editorial in the leading have managed to raise A Beauty With Brain in ‘Janasheen’. The lovely
dailies made it sound the standard after it had lass made her presence felt
like a blockbuster. I think sunk to an all-time low Celina Jaitley is a classic on the social scene when
stardom is obtained by last year. The articles example of a true Indian she put her thinking cap
real success stories over
a period of time and
no amount of money
and public relation
JOHN ABRAHAM: MEDIA VICTIM?
Hi, have you’ll gone from talking ill about Shah Rukh Khan to
acrobatics can make up now targeting John? It was hilarious to read your interpretation
for it. Aamir today is the of John as Gone Abraham and I thought journalists are not
unrivalled number one supposed to take sides and just report news as it is. Your
in the industry. He is one repetitive digs at John for some reasons smells of bias and
actor who has always let stinks of favouritism. I have seen you run down many stars for
his work speak for him and their deeds but never have I seen the magazine stoop down to
such a level. Also the covers look shoddy. The colour scheme
has never blown his own
is distastefully done and resembles an old school of thought.
trumpet. He only interacts
C’mon guys, see the difference in other elite magazine covers.
with the media when his Though in the same breath I also want to say that the stories and
film is up for release. the interviews are quite refreshing. But it all this goes down hill with such tacky covers
He guards his privacy and colour schemes. You guys should do something about the way the magazine is
zealously and his conduct presented. I am doing graphics designing and am well aware of how things should
has been immaculate. be and thus can easily spot flawed copy. And please give us a brief story, about
Perhaps his strategy to John and not some biased anti-John article. Readers have grown up and it’s time
remain always low key and the magazine grows up too!
let his work speak, has Ritwick Chatterjee (Mumbai)

on and turned into a gay the country. And he’s if income was the criteria,
Who’s The Barbie Doll?
right activist. I think it was also taken big gambles then certainly Akshay
comendable of Stardust to which have paid off. Kumar deserves a Padma
feature Celina. The images Aamir’s the best! What Shri. Jokes aside, I
with the interview were however surprised me certainly believe that is
amazing too. this time was reading not the case. No matter
Arjun Mehra Kelly Dorjee’s interview. how the media paints the
(Mumbai) He seems like a very picture, Akshay and Ash
calm and collected definitely deserves such
Aamir Khan: person. Therefore, the honour.
Numero Uno
kind of tongue lashing Radhika Trivedi
he indulged in against (Delhi)
his one-time best
friend Dino Morea seemed Aamir Khan: In 1994, Aishwarya Rai
Undisputed King
very uncharacteristic and Bachchan won the Miss
suspicious. Almost felt Hello, I am a huge fan World title and since then
like it was an off-record of Aamir and I was really there have been numerous
interview with the actor happy to see such a attempts to immortalise the
who’s renowned for being good article about him Indian beauty as a Barbie
the silent, thoughtful types. in Stardust. Long time Doll. However I believe
Niyati Acharya back I had written a letter due to her professional
(Mumbai) to you guys requesting commitments she had to
The April issue of Stardust you to stop picking on postpone their endeavour.
was full of surprises. Padma Shri: him. And it feels good When Aishwarya had
Well-deserved or Not?
A cover story showcasing that finally you have become a house hold
Aamir as the industry This year, the Padma Shri done it. I also agree with name the world over, Mattel
top-gun was good to awards have brought the other reports of him proposed her to endorse
read, especially as the a few surprises. I can’t being self-centered and the Barbie doll but she
star deserves it more believe two of my favourite pompous but no one declined it once again. On
than Shah Rukh Khan. stars, Aishwarya Rai and can ever deny the kind the eve of the favourite
He’s hard-working, a Akshay Kumar received of actor he is. Every film doll’s 50th Anniversary,
better actor, better looker such a prestigious honour. of his has something Aishwarya is still the most
and clearly a smarter I think they have really to look forward to. You sought after celebrity to be
person. SRK is favoured made a mark and carved supporting this definitely impersonated as a celebrity
mostly because he’s an their own niche over the make me a complete fan Barbie. Mattel was also
under-dog who came years. Though questions of your magazine. Also keen to have her walk the
from nowhere and made were raised on what basis it was really nice to see ramp at the Lakme Fashion
it big without a godfather. the pictures of Celina; Week ‘Barbie dolled up’ in
But that’s not true as she is skimpily dressed a winning design, which
without the support of the yet elegant. All this while would be unveiled and
Chopras and Johars, he she was known for her auctioned for a charity of
would’ve been nowhere. gown with low cuts with her choice. Of late, it was
Aamir didn’t rely on any too much of unflattering reported that she opted
big banners to make cleavage show but for a out of the event as she
him the superstar he is change her pictures in the did not want to trouble
today. On the contrary, last months issue spell anybody while taking time
he worked with people like class. She is no doubt a out to this event due to
Ashutosh Gowariker pretty girl but never ever her prior commitments
and Rakesh Omprakash or criteria the government was she photographed (filming Vipul Shah’s next
Mehra despite them not gives the award? Are the this well. With so many ‘Action Replay’ & her being
having big hits to their candidates judged solely good stories, you guys honoured Padma Shri)
credit and today these by their popularity or are on a roll! Great going Ash.
two are among the most- they being the country’s Sumiksha Aggarwal Ravi Patil
respected directors in highest tax-payers? Well, (Bangalore) (Mumbai)

PHOTOGRAPH: JITU SAVLANI
The Lara-Dino
Clash
Over
Kelly!
NEWTON’S THIRD LAW STATES THAT FOR EVERY ACTION, THERE
IS AN EQUAL AND OPPOSITE REACTION. ERGO, HARD-HITTING
CONFESSIONS RESULT IN REPERCUSSIONS. AND THE HARSHER
THE CONFESSION, THE MORE SEVERE THE RAMIFICATIONS!

Last month (and for the first time ever), Kelly Dorji opened was of absolute bewilderment as he’d never expected the
up to ‘Stardust’ about his broken relationship with Lara reticent Kelly to lash out the way he did. The actor, who had
Dutta and being back-stabbed by ex-best friend Dino Morea been attending practically every do about town, completely
(read box on the next page). Now, there were two immedi- vanished from the social circuit to seek refuge from the
ate outcomes of his outburst. One, he inadvertently con- media and the ensuing backlash.
firmed Dino and Lara’s twosome status, a thing which both
the stars had kept studiously mum about. And two, it brought But more importantly, Kelly’s confessions created gaping
to fore the hostilities between Kelly and Dino, which the cracks in the Dino-Lara relationship; to the point that there
latter had been carefully hiding. were rumours about their split. Also, Kelly had no axe to grind
with Lara as according to him, she had come clean to him
This situation came as a complete shocker to Lara and about her and Dino – that made things worse. And owing to
Dino, both of whom this, the two still continue to be
have known Kelly “Lara told Dino that she found nothing good friends even today – a fact
for the longest
time. For Dino es-
wrong in Kelly’s confessions. She felt that doesn’t go down well with
Dino at all. As a close friend of
pecially, whose im- that Dino was being unfair as she had the couple puts it, “Lara and
mediate reaction told him to speak to Kelly about their Kelly are still on good terms
relationship a long while ago” with each other. And after all the
things he’s said about Dino,
obviously Dino isn’t too happy
with their continued camarade-
rie. This has caused the current
strain in their relationship.”
Once the interview was out,

Dino was understandably up-
set. In fact, Lara and Dino even
had a major showdown at the
latter’s home where Dino re-
portedly told Lara that he want-
ed her to sever all ties with
Kelly. Their friend continues,
“Lara told Dino that she found
nothing wrong in Kelly’s confes-
sions. She felt that Dino was
being unfair as she had told him
to speak to Kelly about their
relationship a long while ago.
But maybe because he felt
guilty, Dino didn’t. Lara thought
it was unfair of him to expect
her to hold a grudge against
Kelly.” Lara was of the opinion
that Kelly giving vent to his
anger was justified and his re-
action to Dino’s behaviour was
very natural.
Needless to say, Dino has still

PHOTOGRAPH: PRADEEP BANDEKAR
not gotten over Lara’s pro-Kelly

stance. And that is supposed to
be the primary reason he’s re-
newed contact with his ex-
girlfriend, Nandita Mahtani. The
only reason Dino wasn’t in
touch with Nandita was be-
cause Lara wasn’t too comfort-
THE INTERVIEW THAT CREATED A FURORE
FOR THOSE WHO MISSED OUT ON KELLY DORJI’S EXPLOSIVE INTERVIEW IN THE LAST ISSUE OF
‘STARDUST’, HERE ARE SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM IT:
O “Dino lied to me. Even after he started dating but to be stabbed in the back from within your own
Lara, he never told me and he hasn’t told me walls is a bit harsh”
till date. Lara had to come and tell me because O “When Dino is old and lying down ready to leave
he didn’t” this world, I truly hope he doesn’t look back in regret
O “One has to be a man and stand up for what you because everybody deserves to live well. There is
do. It gives me no pleasure to even look at Dino’s nothing he can do to correct it as it’s done. One just
face because that just brings back 15 years of belief has to move on”
gone wrong. I don’t want ever want to be in touch O“What hurt me was that Dino didn’t have the guts
with him” to tell me himself. We would be in London together
O “I have taken enough shit and enough laughing and after being with me for a while, he would run
from people saying that, ‘Oh! Someone stole your away saying he’s got some work and would be shop-
girlfriend.’ I mean, f*&@ you! I have no expectations ping with Lara. All this I found out later on”
able with her presence in his life. But now he

feels that if Lara’s going to stand up for Kelly and
continue to be friends with him, then he can do
the same. Dino’s good pal tells us, “If Lara wants
to continue to be on good terms with Kelly even
after all the things he’s said about Dino then
there is nothing wrong with Dino being in touch
with Nandi.”
Thanks to this development, there is major

trouble in paradise for Dino and Lara. The couple
has consciously stopped making public appear-
ances, reinforcing stories of their relationship
having gone kaput. In the case of Lara, the dam-
age done is not substantial, considering she’s
always been silent about her relationship with
Dino. Also, she’s never really been open about
her personal life like Dino and that saves her the
trouble of doling out explanations.
Dino, on the other hand, is in quite a soup.

Hitting out at Kelly and justifying his stance in
the media simply won’t do as it’ll make him
look foolish considering he’s never publicly
admitted to being Lara’s boyfriend. It seems
all he can do now is face the trauma and the
repercussions of Kelly’s verbal whiplash alone.
As Dino’s friend discloses, “Thanks to Lara,
who has asked him to maintain silence on their
relationship, he’s in no position to clear his name. ship? When we called Kelly to ask him about this, he said,
As a result, the world now believes he’s the one who’s in “I’ve said all that I wanted to and have nothing more to say.”
the wrong.” All calls and attempts to talk to Dino were futile as the actor
didn’t answer his phone.
However, sources tell us that Dino shouldn’t shoulder the
blame alone as Lara knew all along that Dino hadn’t told Every story has two sides. We’ve already heard
Kelly about them. So why Kelly’s rancour should cause Kelly’s. It’s time now for Dino to stand up and defend
problems between the couple remains a mystery. Is she not just his actions, but also his honour. Until then, this
merely using this as an excuse to ease out of the relation- saga remains incomplete.
T
With the remake fever still on, director tic look. Each piece is unique in itself and
MEHUL KUMAR launched his prestigious is one-of-a-kind”, says Tania. To congratu-
film ‘KRANTIVEER- THE REVOLUTION’, late the illustrious designer on her big day,
the sequel to the Mega-blockbuster ‘Kran- the entire Deol family was there in full
tiveer’ of 1994 at a glittering event. And force. Along with DHARMENDRA, SUNNY
who better than the hit star cast of the film DEOL, BOBBY DEOL, the presence of long
NANA PATEKAR and DIMPLE KAPADIA
to give the mahurat clap? The young stars
of the upcoming sequel were in an upbeat
mood. The cast includes debutant actress
and daughter of Mehul Kumar JAHAN made a glittering impact with graceful ap-
BLOCH, SAMIR AFTAB, KELLY DORJI, pearances of the three Lakme faces - IN-
RANJIT, FARIDA JALAL, GOVIND DRANI DASGUPTA, AMRIT MAGERA and
NAMDEO among others. The highlight of VIPASHA AGARWAL. Also, the presence
the evening was when AMITABH BACH- of supermodel NAOMI CAMPBELL at the
P
CHAN lit the inauguration lamp, a gesture ‘Mai Mumbai’ show made the five day gala
to show his support for the veteran director. all the more memorable.
Along with him were other prominent
personalities like J.P DANGE, deputy chief PREITY ZINTA visited New Zealand re-
secretary for revenue and forest and Bobby Deol with wife Tania cently on an invitation by the New Zealand
T
JAYANT GAIKWAD secretary for culture time friend TWINKLE KHANNA made it a Government for the ongoing India - New
and tourism for Maharashtra. With so many happy family portrait. And how! Zealand cricket series. As the co-owner of
well wishers to egg you on, luck wouldn’t Kings XI Punjab IPL team, the bubbly ac-
be too far. The Lakme India Fashion Week was tress not only attended the matches, but
eclipsed by the mesmerizing presence of a also indulged in adventure sports like
lot of Bollywood stars. The lilting presence Taupo bungee jumping, tandem sky diving
of the luscious KATRINA KAIF, who walked and the Huka jet boat ride. Preity was all
for the brand ‘Barbie’ on the opening day, praise for New Zealand, a country that she
was the ultimate icing on the cake. She had visited several times for her films, but
wowed the audience with her elegant walk seldom had time for leisure pursuits. “New
and zillion watt smile. Then came the much Zealand is awesome! I always remember
awaited show of the celebrated designer seeing picturesque locations and beautiful
SABYASACHI MUKHERJEE which had weather. I’ve heard people talk about the
glamazons like SONAM KAPOOR and adventurous side of New Zealand and this
VIDYA BALAN gracing the front row. Both
the beauties looked elegant in Indian en-
A
sembles. The preview of designer PALLAVI
Amitabh Bachchan with Mehul Kumar
JAIPUR’s collection titled ‘Double Take’ too
saw the filmi razzmatazz with presence of
Actor BOBBY DEOL’s better half, the tal- the very young and striking SONAKSHI
ented and gorgeous TANIA unveiled her SINHA who was also the designer’s show-
new furniture and home accessories col- stopper. Sonakshi was accompanied by her
lection entitled, ‘Jewels In The Forest’ at mother PUNAM and both of them looked
Good Earth in the suburbs. The collection like a million bucks. Bollywood’s most loved
reflected Tania’s signature ‘glitter and designer MANISH MALHOTRA had the
shine’ style. Crystals, semi-precious stones, entire front row filled with the A-listers.
embellishments, superfluities are a distin- HRITHIK ROSHAN, KAREENA KAPOOR,
guishing element of all of Tania’s collec- KAJOL, PREITY ZINTA, TUSSHAR KA-
tions, and this one was no different. But POOR and CELINA JAITLEY had the shut-
what set ‘Jewels in the Forest’ apart from terbugs going delirious. As all good things
her other works was its treatment. “I have come to an end, the fashion week ended
tried to use newer materials and mediums with a brilliant show by designer ANA-
Preity Zinta
in this collection to give a fresh and stylis- MIKA KHANNA. The talented designer

time I discovered it for myself,” she ex- certified instruc-
claimed. With Preity engaging in some of tors. MANISHA
the most daring activities in the adventure KOIRALA, SUB-
capital of the world, she’s totally proved HASH GHAI, RIYA
R
that she’s one of the gutsiest and daring SEN, GULSHAN GROVER, SONU NIGAM,
lasses around. POONAM DHILLON, SIDDHARTH KOIRA-
LA, BAPPA LAHIRI, hair stylist AALIM
T
Rolex is synonymous with perfection and HAKIM and others dropped in to con-
excellence. Hence, it was no surprise to see gratulate their favourite yoga guru.
AAMIR KHAN, with wife KIRAN RAO in
tow, attending a dinner hosted by Rolex at They came, they zoomed and they re-
the newly renovated Crystal Room at Taj joiced! Over one thousand women took off
Mahal Hotel in Mumbai. This dinner was Adhyayan Suman with Anjana Sukhani in 250 cars from the Reclamation Grounds,
and Shahana Goswamy
to celebrate Rolex’s sponsorship of the Vi- Bandra, in the ‘Lavasa Women’s Drive’, held
enna Philharmonic orchestra. Also in at- track of the movie ‘Jashnn’ through an to spread awareness about cancer. The
tendance were the crème de la crème of acoustic performance of three music rally traversed 225 kms to reach Lavasa,
the social circuit like ADI GODREJ, RAJIV tracks. The website includes trailers of India’s first largest hill city located near
and KOMAL WAZIR, RAKESH OM- Adhyayan’s movies, a section on his film- Pune. Flagging off the drive were Bollywood
ography that includes movie stills and stars AJAY DEVGAN and FARDEEN
on-location pictures, a selection of news KHAN, gorgeous divas GUL PANAG, DI-
stories and links to news videos, exclusive ANA HAYDEN, MUGDHA GODSE, POOJA
picture galleries and loads of fun stuff like BEDI, VJ SOPHIE CHOUDHARY, socialite
wall papers and e-cards. And if that’s not DEVIKA BHOJWANI and fashion designer
enough, the site also has space for contests SHAINA NC. The first car to drive out of
that allow fans to engage with the star, Mumbai was an open Logan decorated
offering opportunities to meet him, win with roses, steered by renowned VJ TEE-
autographed music cds, movie dvds, get JAY SINDHU.
exclusive downloads
and more. A perfect
B
escapade for his fans
we say!
Bollywood’s craze for

Aamir Khan with wife Kiran Rao
BIKRAM CHOUD -
T
PRAKASH MEHRA and ZUBIN and HURY’s Hot Yoga was
NANCY MEHTA among others. felt loud and clear at
his health abode,
The tech savvy actor ADHYAYAN SUMAN True Fitness when
launched his website with the intention of movie stars turned up
staying in touch with audiences, friends in full force to meet
and fans. Though his regular support the celebrated yoga
KANGANA RANAUT was not to be seen, guru. Bikram’s Hot
he was accompanied by his upcoming Yoga comprises of 26 Ajay Devgan, Mugdha Godse and Fardeen Khan
movie ‘Jashnn’s co-stars SHAHANA GO- asanas and two
SWAMY and ANJANA SUKHANI. To add breathing exercises scientifically designed “I’m proud to be a part of the event. I
a little zing to the evening, singer-compos- and sequenced by Bikram himself in a salute the spirit of women coming to-
er siblings TOSHI and SHARIB gave the studio heated to over 40 degrees celsius gether to support the noble cause,” said
media a preview of the fantastic sound- and taught by a team of internationally Fardeen Khan.
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HRITHIK ROSHAN: MAHENDER SONI
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400 067. All objections, disputes, differences, claims and proceedings are subject to Mumbai jurisdiction. KATRINA KAIF: RAKESH SHRESTHA

Stardust May 09

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Akshay Kumar: Good times ahead!

It pays to be a popular star. And Akshay Kumar While on the couple,

Stardust May 2009 13

Shah Rukh Khan

Karan’s shooting of ‘My

Stardust May 2009 15

No wonder her popularity is soaring these days!

Stardust May 2009 17

While we’ve feasted our eyes

hope K Jo’s next movie doesn’t feature a non-stop

Stardust May 2009 19

Speaking of Govinda, his dedication and zeal needs to

It seems the entire industry is taking punctuality very MAHIE GILL:

Stardust May 2009 21

Neetu Chandra has re-christened Jag Mundhra ‘teddy bear’

This month goes to

Stardust May 2009 23

PHOTOGRAPH: YOGEN SHAH

th o ught in Mumbai has blown the concerned she is a talented actress

the l fession mething

26 Stardust May 2009

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From her own parents to her in-laws, every-

Stardust May 2009 39

40 Stardust May 2009

Hrithik Battles The Barbara

42 Stardust May 2009

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“Deepika Has Done A Film Down South But

T here’s something intriguing about watching an artist

Wasn’t She Also Hailed As A Newcomer?”

I’ve heard that Salman was apparently so taken up with me that

(On Mugdha Godse’s comment that Asin wasn’t qualified

Stardust May 2009 53

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Stardust May 2009 61

You’ve been lambasted often for your attitude problems.

Has fatherhood changed Shiney? Has it mellowed you

Stardust May 2009 63

PHOTOGRAPH: SUBI SAMUEL

66 Stardust May 2009

Stardust May 2009 67

... with Abhishek Bachchan

has not been

often say that

68 Stardust May 2009

only John who doesn’t seem to

Stardust May 2009 69

KISSA KISS KA!

FROM REEL TO CELINA JAITELY:

REAL ACIDIC TALE

this character. However, what took us by surprise

Stardust May 2009 73

PHOTOGRAPH: YOGEN SHAH