2009 belongs to Aamir Khan" predicts numerologist Niraj Mancchanda

Numeroloigst Niraj Mancchanda gives us his predictions for some of the biggest stars in Bollywood for 2009 including Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Aamir Khan. According to Niraj, 2009 is going to be Aamir's year! Read on to find out what is in store for your favorite stars!

Hrithik Roshan will be loved in Kites.The first three days of the movie's opening will be phenomenal. Hrithik should consider adding the letter 'c' in his name so it spells as Hrithick Roshan. This will help him avoid accidents and injuries. His name presently comes to number 43, same as Amitabh Bachchan and we all know that Big B has also had health issues.

Niraj goes on to say that Harman Baweja will be appreciated in Victory, Abhishek Bachchan will be loved in Delhi 6 and Ranbir Kapoor's first hit movie will likely be Rajniti. Apart from these three films, their other releases are not expected to do so well at the box office. He recommends that Harman should spell his name as Harrmann Bawejaa however, if he has decided to stick to the original spelling, and added S in middle (S for Singh, as he is Sikh) Harman S Baweja. This will help him succeed to some extent. As for the other two, Abhishek should use his father's initial and be Abhishek A Bachchan and Ranbir should spell his name as Raanbir or Raanbier Kapoor, which should come as good luck in their career growth. If they decide to stick to their original spellings, their career could always be cyclic with huge variables of more flops than hits.

Shah Rukh Khan has two films in 2009 (Billoo Barber and My Name Is Khan).It's a money making year for Shah Rukh as 2009=11=1+1=2 and his number is also 2.

Salman Khan is not going through a good phase as many of his films bombed at the box office in 2008 and Niraj says many more will in the coming year. He should get the titles of his films strong according to their numerological values. As it is now, most of the titles of his films releasing in 2009 come to unlucky numbers. Katrina Kaif is a very lucky girl for others. However, her string of flops have begun from Yuvvraaj and she will have many more in 2009. Katrina's luck will not be able to neutralise Salman's low phase in 2009.

Kareena Kapoor's number is 3. In 2009, she will have 2 hit movies (3 Idiots and Kambakkth Ishq) but will not get much credit for these
films like she got for Jab We Met. Aamir Khan will likely take away all the credit for 3 Idiots and many others will be mentioned for Kambakkth Ishq. It's a good year for her as far as success is concerned but not credit. For the credit, she will have to wait for 2010. If Kareena decides to spell her name as Karrinaa Kapoor, it will make her number 42 (same as Shah Rukh) and this should give her enough luck to churn out ten more Jab We Mets, in terms of success and full credit on her shoulders.

Akshay Kumar's destiny number is 5 which is derived by adding the full date of birth. He turned 41 and so the number 5 has been activated again. His luck has now become cyclic. At this age, he had a hit Welcome and then a flop Tashan and then Singh is Kinng did huge business but entailed losses to many distributors in India due to its high Cost. His next, Chandni Chowk to China, will open well but again, due to its cost, it will entail losses to Warner Brothers or at maximum, manage to recoupe its cost. His only hit in 2009 will be Kambakkth Ishq, which has the same number numerologically as Maine Pyar Kiya and numerologically titled by me. The entire credit for the film's success will go to the lucky producer Sajid Nadiadwala, director Sabbir Khan and Sylester Stallone, and not surprisingly, Aanuu Mallik is expected to start a new cycle, which will take his career to another level. Furthermore, the 100 Crore Blue will be released, which comes to same numerological number as Dil Se, so I do not even have to say its box office merit. According to numbers, he will have many flops after Blue but in 2010, Akshay will once again bounce back to giving many hits but his rollercoaster of hits and flops will continue.

2009 belongs to Aamir Khan. 3 Idiots comes to the same number as Devdas; his wife Kiran's movie Dhobi Ghaat comes to number of Maine Pyar Kiya and his another home production, Delhi Belly which stars his nephew Imran Khan, comes to the same number as Chak De India. Aamir is born on 14/03/1965 = 1+4+3+1+9+6+5 = 29 = 2+9 = 11 = 1+1 = 2 which is his destiny number. Year 2009 is also number 2 and Aamir also completes 20 years of his career as an actor. Therefore, number 2 (his destiny number) will make it the biggest year of his career!

SEJAL SHAH TO MAKE AWARD WINNING DOCUMENTARY ‘JOGINIS’ INTO COMMERCIAL FILM

WEST SIDE PLUS(TIMES OF INDIA -JUL 2004)

By Skimmy Gupta

Internationally acclaimed documentary ‘Joginis- Servants of God’ by Mumbai based filmmaker Sejal Shah will be screened at Locarno for the second time next month. The documentary which recently won the Grand prize at the Festival Du Film Sur Les Droits Humains, the first international film festival on Human rights in Geneva has been screened at International festival at Biarritz in France, Tongues on Fire festival in London, Festival resistances in France amongst many other international venues. Versatile filmmaker Sejal is now planning to make a film based on her first documentary with Bollywood stars .She is also working on another script to direct her first feature film.

Sejal, a Khar resident began her career as a journalist and soon switched to film direction She moved to Los Angeles for an intensive course in filmmaking and directed four shorts in Hollywood .On her return to India she made her first Documentary ‘Joginis- Servants of God’ about the prevalent Jogini system existing in India despite a ban by Indian government. She says, “Joginis said to be servants of God are dedicated to Goddess Yellamma making them goddesses themselves and forfeiting their right to ever marry. This documentary has some exclusive footage of an initiation of a baby girl and a young woman being dedicated to the temple goddess and becoming a Jogini.”

Speaking on her dream to convert the documentary into commercial film she feels “ It will be a film based on a true life story of a woman who was a jogini. Since this documentary has done so well in the international festivals I am sure the film will evoke great interest too. The film was officially selected for the Locarno Film festival 2003, one of the most prestigious international film festivals in the world and will be screened this year too. It is a real honour.”

Her second film Mangala Tamasha Party, a 52 minutes documentary on Mangala Bansode of Maharashtra - one of India’s well-known Tamasha dancer won the best documentary award at IDPA in India and award for excellence in Direction at RAPA, India. Sejal also specializes in television Software, Commercials, Documentaries and Corporate Films. Her creativity took another turn when she recently just shot a 45 mins Dv film about a couple on their way to Goa. It stars Ashwini Kalsekar and Rajesh Khera was shot on the road in a completely experimental form. “Depending on how it goes I plan to make another 45 mins film with the same theme and maybe release it in theatres,” adds Sejal.

Sejal has won several awards for investigative and social issue based journalism including the British Chevening Award for outstanding young Indian Journalists and Award for excellence. On her stint with commercial cinema she says, “I have just completed a film script which has been written for me by Bhavani Iyer who has also written ‘Black’ directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. I am in the process of meeting actors and producers for this film.”

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Missed Worlds and Missed Universes

DNA (Saturday, January 21,2006)

Panelists say lack of focus is behind the recent paucity of international beauty pageant winners. Miss Indias say it’s simply bad luck.

Skimmy Gupta

After the likes of Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra triumphing at international beauty pageants, it has been over four years since Indian beauties have won any international recognition.

Expert panelists believe that casual approach, attitude problem, busy schedules are few of the many reasons behind the recent lack of winners at the international level. However, recent Miss India winners deny all these allegations and feel that it’s mere bad luck.

Cosmetologist Dr Jamuna Pai on the panel of the Miss India pageant says, “The girls are overconfident. I think we need to pick up the right girls at the initial stage.”
Choreographer Sandip Soparkkar for last year’s pageant says, “After winning the crown in India, the girls get very busy and their training programmes are hampered.”

Dr Sandesh Mayekar, cosmetic and aesthetic dentist on the panel of Miss India 2005 says, “Today the beauty pageant winners come with a mindset that they have a perfect smile.”

Sindura Gadde, Miss India-World 2005 says, “I gave my 100 percent at the recent Miss World contest. We have to understand that luck is a very important factor.”

Miss India Earth 2005 Niharika Singh feels she lost at Miss Earth pageant due to her lack of height. She says, “There is a deliberate attempt not to crown Indian beauties.”

Actor and former Miss India-Universe 2004 Tanushree Datta feels “As far as the girls and the panelists are concerned no one leaves any stone unturned. I guess it’s just wrong timing and hard luck.”

BOLLYWOOD APPLAUDS COURT SENTENCE FOR BHARAT SHAH

The Asian Age (Oct 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

The film fraternity applauded the Mumbai court sentence of pardoning film financier and diamond merchant Bharat Shah with a minimum of one year of prison for his alleged links with the underworld. As Shah has already spent 14 months in jail, he will not serve the one-year imprisonment .

Shah arrested on January 8, 2001 under MCOCA was charged with threatening actors to work in his film Chori Chori Chupke Chupke with the help of gangster Chhota Shakeel.He was also charged with passing money to Mumbai's underworld dons via the hawala route. Almost after two and half years of prosecution; defence lawyers argued about no conclusive evidence to prove Shah’s voice in 30 audiotapes containing Shah's alleged phone conversations with Shakeel. Finally, Bharat Shah is man free from accusations of underworld nexus and other charges against him.

Bollywood film industry feels Bharat Shah is a genuine nice man to be forced into such serious allegations of nexus with underworld elements. They applauded the court verdict of letting Bharat Shah of all criminal charges and finally dawning justice for the film financer.

Bollywood actor Amrish Puri stated, “Finally, justice is granted to Bharat Shah. What went wrong and where nobody can foresee? I can just say whatever he went through was his destiny and karmas. He had to go through all this pain to finally emerge as a winner”

Hansal Mehta, film director felt, “This had to happen sooner or later because we are living in a free country. But you cannot convict anybody forcingly and branding him with underworld association. It is wrong to victimize somebody without proper investigations. Lot of money, time and harassment has gone into this and pain Bharat Shah’s family event through cannot be understood by anyone. We had anticipated a decision in his favour.”

Actor Prem Chopra said, “Its good news that Bharat is free from all accusations of his underworld links. He is a genuinely nice man and it’s heartening to see law has taken its course of time to dawn its decision of proving him non-guilty. No doubt, his case will act as an eye opener for Bollywood fraternity not to be associated with underworld elements directly or indirectly.”

Film Actress Rajeshwari Sachdev commented, "The court has acquitted him and court decision is respected .But on other hand,police is not at all to be blamed for their incomplete investigations.As police did what was right at that given point of time within the framework of law and order."

Aditya Pancholi, actor said, “Bharat Shah deserved to be free. And we feel happy for him and his family. But on the contrary he should not have been convicted so badly without detailed verifications. We wish him all the best.”

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AMITABH BACHCHAN CASTS VOTE FOR 5th IIFA AWARDS

The Asian Age (Feb 2004)

By Skimmy Gupta

For the fifth International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards; almost 400 people will travel to Singapore this year to be associated with showbiz. The organizers and filmstars will showcase Indian glitz and glamour and give Indian cinema a global platform. Superstar Amitabh Bachchan, brand ambassador, IIFA cast his vote for nominations for the forthcoming IIFA awards at J.W Marriot hotel, Mumbai held today under strict supervision of Price Waterhouse Coopers, the voting will be open till tomorrow. IIFA is only award function, which gives the entire film industry a chance to vote for nominations.

Already many prominent personalities inc Shabana Azmi, Javed Akhtar, Pahlaj Nahilani, Chunky Pandey, Sonali Kulkarni, David Dhawan have already cast their votes. In an effort to ensure greater participation, IIFA awards will take voting process to various segments of film industry through mobile voting booths. The advisory board of IIFA consists of veterans like Jaya Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan, David Dhawan, Ramesh Sippy, J.P Dutta, Shyam Shroff, Pahlaj Nihalani, Yash Johar and Vinod Khanna.

The Asian Age spoke to Amitabh Bachchan about his views on IIFA Awards to be held in Singapore in May 2004. Bachchan said “These votes are casted with lot of seriousness and are just as voting is done by electronic polling booth. There is no scope of anything going wrong because of the foolproof system. The objective is to celebrate Indian cinema across the globe. IIFA awards have truly evolved over last 4 years to become a global event. It represents the true spirit of Indian cinema. I am confident that it will continue in its journey to touch greater heights.”

IIFA Awards was established in 2001 in London to honour the achievements of the Indian film industry and of Asians in World Cinema and the event is held annually at the world's most celebrated venues.The fourth Samsung IIFA awards held last May in Johannesburg, South Africa was a great success with movie ‘Devdas’ sweeping the most prestigious awards of best director, actor, actress and film (bringing its IIFA tally to a grand 16 awards). Superb stage performances by Rani Mukerji, Ajay Jadeja, Ketchup song by the Spanish trio of Las Ketchup, Shilpa Shetty, Salman Khan and other stars enthralled the audience.

Sabas Joseph, director, Wizcraft said, “At last year’s IIFA awards in South Africa, we organized a cricket match for charity. This year; the actors will be walk the ramp for fashion show. As the awards go international, there is not much scope for people to interact with their popular actors. But this year; on a personal level, people will be able to interact with filmstars .The charity money will go to families who lost their bread earners (2 film industry men died while shooting ‘LOC’, 2 during ‘Devdas’ and 1 during ‘Badhai Ho Badhai’. We are also formulating a trust called ‘ILFS’ wherein people can approach regarding anyone injured/killed during filmmaking. A person from non-filmi background will head the trust and money will directly go to family of kin.”

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FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER VICKY IDNANI BAGS AWARD

WEST SIDE PLUS(TIMES OF INDIA-Sep 2004)

By Skimmy Gupta

Fashion photographer Vicky Idnani did not even dream that his Bollywood photographs will get him Achievers Award from his alumnus college. Till now the recipients of this award are who’s who of Mumbai including Anil Ambani. The versatile photographer and resident of Lokhandwala was recently awarded achievers award by K.C College for his excellent work in his photography career. He has photo shot almost all Bollywood stars like Sushmita Sen, Madhuri Dixit, Isha Koppikar,Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali khan, Shahrukh Khan, Amitabh Bachhan, to name a few..

Nothing is hidden from Vicky’s camera lenses; be it Aishwarya’s child like quality or Tabu’s beautiful face or Hrithik Roshan’s honest eyes. His photographs of filmstars regularly feature of leading magazines like Femina, G, Stardust and others. His initial fascination with camera started when at the age of eight years; he clicked photographs at his sister’s marriage. Studying photography courses at J. J. School of Arts; Vicky shot for M.F Hussian’s film ‘Gaja Gamini’ starring Madhuri Dixit.

Vicky goes nostalgic taking about his graduation days at K.C college-Churchgate .A student editor of College magazine, he used to host fashion shows .He recalls, “Beautiful and tall models became my first clients for portfolio shoot. I conceived the idea of pursuing fashion photography into a full fledged career.” He started earning while studying. He was even blacklisted on college notice board for bunking morning lectures. But her class mate girls found him cute and talented and used to give him morning phone calls. Vicky says, “I could attend most lectures and my name was gradually removed from the board.”

The photographer recalls the terror of Manju Nichani, Principal – K.C College during his college days.” She was a strict vice principal then. But she was a friend and great source of motivation. It feels good after so many years my college remembered me and honored me with an award,” adds Vicky

Manju Nichani, Principal – K.C College feels proud of Vicky’s achievements. in photography world. She says ,“It feels proud to see our college students excelling in their field. I was thrilled to see Vicky’s photographs splashed all over leading magazines and newspapers .He was always a responsible child and has achieved a lot in short time. I am sure he will accomplish higher heights.”

Actor Hrithik Roshan adds, “Vicky’s work depicts honesty and magic. He lets the person to be himself during photoshoots.A thorough professional; he puts hard work and executes excellent results without ulterior motives. I personally like his work as he inspires a person to bring the best in himself.”

Vicky feels that there is lot of favoritism in film industry but it is individual’s work, which speaks for itself. His motto ‘Do what you want, then only you get the results.”His dream projects include photo shooting film star Rekha and supermodel Naomi Campbell.” I want an Oscar award for photograpy.” quips Vicky.

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“DIL PARDESI HO GAYA “ SCREENED AMONGST SECURITY BLANKET

The Asian Age (Dec 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

The storming of Republican Party of India (RPI) activists in Bollywood film ‘Dil Pardesi Ho Gaya’ at Gaiety theatre, Bandra on Sunday afternoon and other theatres across Mumbai has put police officials on alert. They are alleging the movie about India and Pakistan relations has certain objectionable dialogues and scenes hurting Indian sentiments. The movie propagating the message of love and peace between people of India and Pakistan stars newcomers Kapil Jhaveri of India and Saloni Aswani of Pakistan is now showing across city screens amongst police protection.

Saawan Kumar, producer-director of movie ‘Dil Pardesi Ho Gaya’ states “Many Ministers of Government machinery like George Fernandes and Delhi chief minister Sheila Dixit have watched my movie. And nobody pointed out any objections in the movie whatsoever, Moreover it was passed by censor board with a U certificate. And it was made ‘tax-free’ in Maharashtra when it was released last Friday. All over India, the movie is being screened in a peaceful manner except Mumbai.”

Saawan also chief of Indian Motion Pictures Producers' Association (IMPPA) said that these kinds of demonstrations are illegal and a sad story. When censors have cleared the movie, they should not behave in such a violent manner. Even RPI leaders saw the movie before, they did not object at that time. And now their strong protest at various theatres across Mumbai is very shocking. Anyway, I am not scared and the movie is running with help of police security.”

Manoj Desai, executive director, Gaiety theatre said, “The damage to theater premises, doors and glass windows is about 1 lakh rupees. About 41,000/- for refund of abrupt show and 60,000/- for other damages to banner, main door in the premises. Further losses were due to cancellation of others shows. The demonstrators were objecting to some scenes in the climax shot. The movie will run anyhow for remaining days. The whole demonstration looked more like an election stunt.”

Bipin Kumar Singh, DCP-Zone IX informed, “The majority of demonstrators belonged to Mahasangh and RPI demonstrated to stop the movie. They broke the glass of the main door and barged inside the theatre premises. They have certain objections to the movie but details are yet to be found out. The case is registered in Bandra Police Station. Further investigations are going on.”

When asked about the whole episode appearing as a publicity stunt; Sawan in an angry tone said, “This is utter non sense. Why would I make my own losses and take law and order in my hand? This is not my first film and don’t need help from such elements to promote my movie. Viewers will decide the fate of the movie.”

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MANAGEMENT GURU VENTURES INTO BOLLYWOOD

The Asian Age (Mar 2004)

By Skimmy Gupta

The setting could not have been any better for announcing the launch of a truly corporatised Hindi feature film in Bollywood. Planman Life announced the launch of its debut Hindi feature film ‘Rok Sako To Rok Lo’ at FICCI – Frames on March 15, 2004. Planman Life presented a true illustration of a corporatised film backed by an extensive research carried on by their consultants. The film ‘Rok Sako To Rok Lo’ is a classic story based on the romance of friendship, the spirit of adventure and the magic of timeless love and launches ten fresh talents in Hindi film industry. Management Guru and noted economist Arindam Chaudhuri marks his debut as a film director.

Professor Chaudhuri - Dean, Centre for Economic Research & Advanced Studies at IIPM (The Indian Institute of Planning & Management, New Delhi) was recently rated as one of the 50 leading thinkers in South Asia by Wilton Park (an organization supported by the European Commission and British foreign office).His latest book ‘Count Your Chickens Before They Hatch’ has been in all national best seller lists.

After being associated with the production and marketing of two Bengali movies in 2001,Arindam marks his debut as a film director. He sais,“Film making is purely business diversification for us. We are making Hindi film as I like Bollywood movies and they are watched by masses. The film is about boys and girls of class 12 depicting their pure friendships, first crush and everlasting memories. I believe films can be made in a corporate manner also. A film director should be called as managing directors. Because if you trust technical department of film and their expertise and allow them to work freely with guidance, they deliver excellent results. We will soon be launching another film this year.”

Arindam added, “I am extremely confident that our cast will be loved by the audiences across the country. Surprisingly, there seems to be quite a dearth of talented fresh faces in the industry. The new pair Yashodhan and Manjari Phadnis in the lead roles will win the hearts of audiences. The discipline in the sets also tempered them to rehearse, practice, and deliver their best for the film. The script, I feel, is the hero of the film. With such a thoroughly developed script, a film cannot go wrong.”

Cinematography has been done by award winning Santosh Thundiyil, appreciated for his works in ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ and ‘Pinjar’.“A lovely script bound and finalized well in advance, an extensive workshop with all the actors, tight budgetary allocation and control using management tools and software are main highlights of the film. Also strict discipline on the sets by all and sundry, sticking to the schedule timelines and a congenial, fun and a supporting atmosphere collectively makes for ‘Rok sako to Rok lo’ as a case study in itself ,”felt Shubho Shekhar Bhattacharya,CEO of the filmed entertainment division of Planman Life and Executive Producer of the film.

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Script of Ram Gopal Varma

THE ASIAN AGE (JUL 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

Most directors would have sat on their laurels after giving a hit like ‘Bhoot’, but that’s not Ram Gopal Varma’s style. The maverick filmmaker has not planned on his next film, but one after that too.And this time it’s the media that is the focus of his attention. Skimmy Gupta learns more about “ Commercial Break”-his new film on media and other projects.

Not content with planning out the most expensive ever-Hindi film ‘ Ek’, Ramu, as he is popularly known is geared up for Commercial Break. For this film, Ramu will be working with Jaideep Sahni on the script. As Ramu elaborates,” Today media is all about entertainment and seizing the attention of the audience. With the increase in news channels, everything has become very competitive and there is a need to dramatize a situation. Even the audience or the people on the streets have become very savvy. As television reporters give live reports, people crowd around them in the hope that their mugs will also be seen.”

“As Ek needs a start to finish schedule with a foreign crew, its taking time to sort out all the pre -production details. So I decided to do something in my spare time “ adds Ramu.But one wonders whether he really has any spare time. As his production house has become a factory. The production house of Que Sera Sera and Varma Corporation plan to release at least four films annually. And the director, also a savvy businessman has roped in some NRI investors for these projects.

Ram Gopal Varma’s four films are on the floor with ‘Darna Mana Hai’ due to release in the last week of this month. Chandan Arora, the editor who edited most of Ramu’s movies gets a director’s break with Ramu’s latest muse Antara Mali. Titled ‘Mein Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon’, the postproduction for this film is currently underway. And two other films, Ab tak Chhappan and Gayab.However the director is not certain when he can start work on Commercial Break. And till then for us journalists, it might be a good break.

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STORY BEHIND ‘SAATHIYA’ SONG IN SAAYA

THE ASIAN AGE(Jul 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

For a man who did not believe in the supernatural, this was the ultimate test. Mahesh Bhatt, a staunch atheist came to terms with the unknown ways of the world when it was time to sell the music of his next film, Saaya scheduled to release this friday(4th July). The correspondent has first hand account of the song in the film ‘Saathiya’ picturised on John Abraham and Tara Sharma by director Anurag Basu in the backwaters of Kerala.

Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt and Gulshan Kumar, T-Series owner after successfully making movies like Dil Hain Ki Manta Nahin and Aashiqui were discussing their next project. Bhatt recalls, “ About five years back, a day before Gulshan Kumar was brutally murdered; we were discussing our next movie. Unfortunately he passed away just after we finalized the song ‘Saathiya’ for the film. With his untimely death, the project was shelved and so was this song. But the song was not to be forgotten. I tried using that song in film ‘Zakhm’. However that song did not suit any film situation. " Later when Tanuja Chandra, film director made Zindagi Ke Safar Mein, the song was shot as part of the film. Unfortunately Columbia Tristar bought the music rights of the film and the song was dropped as the rights belonged to T-Series. Even T-Series tried several times to release that song independently, but never succeeded.

Mahesh further revealed “Now while making ‘Saaya’, it was once again the same production house with the same music company. Mukesh Bhatt , chief, Vishesh Films spoke to Bhushan Kumar, Gulshan Kumar’s son regarding the song and the music. Bhushan narrated an interesting tale. Bhushan told Mukesh that apparently Late Gulshan Kumar came in his dreams few days back and asked him to incorporate that song in Saaya and insisted that Mahesh Bhatt who had quit direction, should definitely be present during the song picturization.”

A startled Mukesh approached his elder brother with this weird narration. And Mahesh Bhatt who never believed in the super natural had to bow down to a belief he never believed in.

And what makes this story so unusual is the theme of Saaya is also ‘Can love bring back the dead‘ ’ adds Mahesh Bhatt.

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1 THING : MAHIMA CHOUDHARY

WEST SIDE PLUS - TOI (JAN 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

One thing that I always desire is to be with my parents. In fact I want the same parents and the same family birth after birth. I sincerely hope and pray that God should grant my this wish. I feel lucky to have such pare(nts who have stood by me through thick and thin. They have always believed in my talent, my confidence, and me and have taught me so many valuable things, which are now proving to be a guiding torch in my life. They have always been a source of motivation and encouragement. A person’s life is incomplete and meaningless without the presence of parents.

In today’s modern times, many teenagers due to some reason discard and disrespect their parents. But I strongly feel parents are a guiding force for every child throughout life. Their experience, love and support help tremendously in developing one’s personality. It is our duty to extend our love and care whenever they need us, and standby them in an hour of need. One should never forget that in this world there is no substitute for parents .How much we do for them it will always fall short in front of their undemanding love and care.

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ASHA BHOSLE TO CUT AN ALBUM

THE ASIAN AGE (MAR 2004)

By Skimmy Gupta

A legendary singer, a grandmother, a star performer, an enterpreneur . Singer Asha Bhonsle in her early seventies is still a bundle of energy. In a career spanning over five decades, Asha has lent her melodious silken voice for actresses ranging from Nutan, Asha Parekh and Rekha to Urmila Matondkar, Kajol and Kareena Kapoor.The legendary singer is all set to launch her new album by year end. Performing riyaaz on classical to devotional music, she did not reveal much details about her forthcoming album saying ‘It will be a surprise and a musical treat for my fans.’

The combination of latest Indian "rap" and Asha Bhonsle's timeless appeal has won her a new audience among the younger generation. Asha has sung ’Tanha Tanha’,’Le gayee le gayee’,’Kambhakt Ishq’ and other popular chart busters. Her last album “Kabhi to nazar milao" with Adnan Sami was perhaps her most popular album. A Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner, she still reigns as hot favourites with most music directors of Bollywood.

At the recent launch of Dr.Rishma Pai’s infertility clinic in Bandra, Asha’s granddaughter also escorted her. Asha says “Few years back, my daughter in law and me had just returned for US .One night, it was raining cats and dogs and no doctor was willing to come at late night to help my expecting daughter in law. It was only Dr.Rishma Pai who came at beck of my call and helped deliver the baby.” The singer says “Despite a busy schedule, I always takes out time for my grandchildren. They are always my ready audience.”

Asha also has a restaurant ‘Asha’s’ in Dubai and is soon planning to open another franchisee in Kuwait.Recalling her stint with restaurant line, she says, “I love making food with my recipes. My grand children insisted me to write a book on recipes. Since many had written books in the past, I wanted to do something different. Hence,I ventured into restaurant business.”

Asha’s concerts are always a sell out and she loves performing at the Royal Albert Hall, London.At a recent Hindi concert in kalyan and Marathi concert in Thane, audience danced to her evergreen dance numbers ‘Piya ab tu aaja’, ‘Aaja Aaja’ and others. She says “It feels great to see crowd stand on their feet and dance. The demand at most concerts across the globe are for my old songs.”

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REEMA KHAN: FROM PAKISTAN TO MUMBAI

THE ASIAN AGE (JAN 2004)

By Skimmy Gupta

Reema Khan, a popular actress from Pakistan is on her first visit to Mumbai to promote peace, friendship and love between India and Pakistan. Reema has displayed her acting skills in over 175 films in Lollywood (film industry in Pakistan) .She strongly feels artists from both countries can effectively contribute for betterment and happiness for people across the border. Exuding beautiful looks; Reema is not untouched by glamour and glitz of Bollywood.She has shown her keen interest to work in Bollywood .She is also short-listing popular Indian singers for her directorial venture in Pakistan during this visit.

Skimmy Gupta spoke to Reema Khan during her brief stay at Hotel Tulip Star,Juhu over a cup of coffee.

Excited on her first visit to India; Reema told West Side Plus “In Mumbai;I have met many Bollywood celebrities like Dilip Kumar, Rakesh Roshan, Jeetendra, Saroj Khan and film producers. I am very happy. It is like a dream come true. Having worked for hundreds of Pakistani films; I am now planning to direct my own film in Pakistan. There are talented artists on both sides of the border. Then why can’t we work together? Talks are on with famous Bollywood singers wherein Abhijeet, Alka Yagnik, Udit Narayan, Shreya Ghosal and Jaspinder Nirula have been shortlisted. The final list will be decided on the script and situation of the songs. I do not mind doing a Bollywood film –if offered a good role “

P D Mehra, producer-director-writer chasing a dream of an India-Pak film venture for 15 years and organising Reema’s visit says “It is a warm gesture to see people from Pakistan arriving in India to share the best of talented technicians.”Mehra is also planning to take a Bollywood delegation — Rakesh Roshan, Jeetendra, Prem Chopra, Ranjeet and Parikshit Sahani to Lahore, Pakistan on February 5.

Speaking about definition of beauty, the beauty queen of Pakistan Reema Khan replies “Physical beauty lies in the eyes of beholder. But real beauty lies in clear and loving heart.”

With a motive to promote peace, prosperity and harmony, Reema feels “Every Indian and every Pakistani should make their own individual efforts to maintain peace between both countries. Let the Government of two countries do their own peace process talks. It is also responsibility of artistes to share happiness and refrain from hurting each other .As life is very short, time is very little, while happiness is scarce. So why fight? We have big hearts and should welcome people across the border with a warm open heart. I have got immense love from India and this memorable visit will remain etched in my mind for a long time.

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SHABANA AZMI COMES TO THE RESCUE OF DHOBIS

THE ASIAN AGE (JAN 2004)

By Skimmy Gupta

Actress and MP Shabana Azmi finally had to intervene on Saturday, 27th December in 'Dhobi-Ghat' case at Juhu after local police failed to take any action. A local hooligan, Bastyav Creado and his accomplices have allegedly been successful in grabbing major land worth crores of rupees (measuring approx. 5500 sq.mts) of 100-year-old Dhobi Ghaat at Gangadhar P.Chaudhary Marg -Juhu.Due to timely intervention of local residents and Shabana Azmi;only a small stretch of open land is left form being encroached. Till date, police has taken no action against the encroachers.

Prakash Chaudhary, social worker and local resident narrated the whole incident to The Asian age.He said "The entire stretch of land to Amrutlal trust from over 100 years. Moreover, the land has been sanctioned as an open land for Dhobi Ghaat by Maharashtra Government. But Bastyap and others started capturing the land illegally with muscle power. A person of Amrutlal family was also beaten up by them few years ago and has not shown up due to fear. Basically, their modus operandi
seems to occupy entire land, build one-storey huts and rent or even sell them for lakhs of rupees without any paperwork."

Shabana told The Asian Age 'The dhobi families have been staying for more than 40 years living their livelihood. A local hooligan has illegally grabbed and occupied almost the entire land of these dhobis and sold it to slum dwellers. Now only a small plot of land is remaining and he has his eye on it. He is now threatening them to pay him for this piece of land or he will sell it also. It's a sheer surprise that in front of police, the entire dhobi ghat has been sold to slum
dwellers and police has hardly prevented this activity."

Sources reveal Bastyav has a criminal background with many cases registered against him in police stations. He resides at Gaothan 2,Juhu whereas other accomplices reside in the encroached area."Buddhilal Choudhary, a 40-year-old is third generation dhobi residing in the area .On the behalf of 27 families suffering from the hands of local hooligans-Bastyav, Mariyappa, Alam, Magan,Kambli, Mansoor and others; Buddhilal complained with Juhu Police Station on 22 nd December.As he said, "Since past 4 years; the encroachers have grabbed almost 90% of the land .All our washing and drying open areas for clothes have been converted into huts which has badly affected our business. They also regularly harass our families by extorting extra rent and threatening them for life and money. "

Around 25 people approached Shabana on 27th December with the issue wherein she lodged a fresh complaint on her MP letterhead with Juhu Police Station." Now, they have assured us of some action against the land grabber. The local hooligan is a threat to huge colony of dhobi ghaat.As he was also allegedly involved in occupying some land of Juhu Beach which was to be developed for senior citizens and children. He also obtained a stay order for the same. But we managed to demolish the structure. I have also spoken to DCP Bipin Kumar and so lets see what happens."adds
Shabana.

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ACTOR RANJEET OPENS SCHOOL WITH INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS

THE ASIAN AGE (DEC 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

Ranjeet, a popular actor and villain of Bollywood movies in seventies and eighties enacting memorable roles in ‘Lawaris’,’Sharaabi’, Namak Halaal’ with Big B has acted in over 500 films in Tamil, Telugu, Gujrati and other regional languages. Though often remembered for his evil deeds on screen; his proposed international school near Mumbai reveals a man with a golden heart. Ranjeet’s ‘Pen School’ located with excellent teaching faculty and abundant sports facilities promises education of highest international standards. The school spread over 25 acres and located on Pen-Khopoli express about 85 kms away from Mumbai built as per IBO standards will open for admissions next year. The school encloses a flowing river, hundreds of coconut trees and abundant natural surroundings making it one of its kind schools near Mumbai.

The first phase of the school comprising of standards 3 upto standard 10 will open in March next year. Speaking about his notion of opening a school, Ranjeet recalls, “Twenty years ago; I was shooting a forest scene for ‘Kartavya’ movie with Dharmendra at this scenic location near Pen during monsoons. I instantly fell in love with this beautiful place and immediately brought this plot. Today; the plot with serene surroundings is ideal for my dream project of international school. My grandfather was principal of Hindu Sabha School, Punjab and my late father always desired to open a school. I suppose it was in my genes to be associated with education.”

As the actor says “Couple of years back, I saw the increasing study pressures on my growing children. It motivated me to open a residential school of international standards near Mumbai. Parents could also easily drive away on weekends to meet their kids at the school. They can even relax at nearby Lonavala-Khandala hill stations or proposed Ayurvedic health centre within school campus. “

Ranjeet -a nonsmoker leads a happy family life and appreciates his wife’s immense love and contribution in all walks of his life. Apart from inducting top notch administrative and teaching staff from abroad; Ranjeet emphasizes on sport facilties for grooming student’s overall personality.” Playing areas for popular games like basketball, badminton, tennis, cricket, football, athletics and other sports will be available. When parents leave their kids with us; we will make sure to nurture them in a healthy way. I believe in balanced mix of good education and sports. A healthy body ensures a healthy mind.”

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BACHCHAN & BEYOND : FIRST OF ITS KIND EXHIBITION

THE ASIAN AGE (DEC 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

“Bachchan & Beyond”, the first exhibition of its kind in Mumbai featuring Bollywood inspired collectibles and furniture was inaugurated by “B Big” Amitabh Bachchan at The Club, Mumbai on 1st December 2003. “Suneeta Couture”-an exquisite collection designed by Suneeta, a fashion stylist and designer made for interesting viewing. The collection consisted of portraits and pictures of popular Bollywood film stars like Bachchan family, Shahrukh Khan on Hand-painted Chair,Coffee Tables, Placemats, Coasters and Bookmarks. The back of the chair with a hand-painted portrait of a Bollywood persona on canvas attracted visitors.

The styling of props on Bollywood was quite unique; Suneeta has created soft furnishings, like sheer curtains & cushion covers on Bollywood & old vintage film posters form the backdrop of my placemats & coasters. There were interesting items like bags on Hollywood structured to look like Monte-Cristo Cigar Boxes. Images of Raja Ravi Verma, Moulin Rouge, Chicago and even Maharani Gayatri Devi were innovatively captured onto coasters, cushions and other paraphernalia. Suneeta’s passion for films and the legends of Bollywood reflected in styling of each piece and prop.

Actor Amitabh Bachchan inaugurating the exhibition said “I love everything on the display. And I wish I could take everything with me. Suneeta had gifted me a hand-painted chair with my portrait painted on the back of the chair on my sixtieth birthday. The chair still adorns my living room. Her gift of set of tablemats with various photos of Bachchan family at today’s launch is one of the most cherished gifts.”

Big B’s words of appreciation & encouragement while gifting the chair on his birthday were a great inspiration for Suneeta .Then she took on the task of designing an entire line and resultant was Bollywood Lifestyle Collection. Suneeta says, “ These furniture good lookers will make a style statement in any setting and ambience, in India and even abroad. Bollywood is a world of incredible teeming opulence, continually attracting you with their colors, contrast, music, extravagant romance & movement – this forms the essence of my collection. My collections therefore have a theme based on Bollywood”.

Bachchan… & Beyond is only the beginning for Suneeta who would like to venture full time into Bollywood merchandising. “Bollywood has become hot internationally and every decade of Hindi cinema has been defined by a particular mood. The last few years, the mood has metamorphosed to portray to a stylized contemporary look – this is my inspiration”, adds Suneeta.

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GOVINDA FUMES OVER REMIXES

THE ASIAN AGE (SEP 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

“The works of legends should be preserved and not degraded by remixes” says film actor, Govinda.Popularly known as Chi-chi, the actor retorts that great work of legends in Hindi films is a reflection of our rich culture and music. He says adding few jhankaar beats and techno-music not only spoils the song’s originality; but is also a sheer humiliation for music greats. He adds, “Music companies are on this remix bandwagon to earn quick and easy money. But if they cannot create something new; they must take care to remix in a way to at least preserve the decency and creativity of original score.” Govinda quirks “Don’t remix so much!”

Recently, when a music company approached him for a remix album; Chi-chi was highly upset. As he recalls “The music company should have given a thought before approaching me for a remix. People have started taking artists for granted and their carefree attitude only forces us to behave in a negative fashion. There was no code of conduct in their approach and entire thing was rather ill mannered .So, even I was forced to deny the proposal ruthlessly. Some people have amazing guts to approach you with such stupid offer anticipating the artists will grab it; but they are wrong.”

“It takes talent, hard work and perseverance to create history and a name in music world through original creative work. Though remixes are famous today, but I feel their popularity and era seems short-lived. But original songs of yesteryear movies even black and white movies are still etched in our memories. Their music and wordings are still hummed by today’s people and will be remembered for generations to come.” adds Govinda.

The loving superstar, Govinda is enthusiastic and all set for his forthcoming movie ‘Raja bhaiya’. On the other hand; disappointed over this famous music company and their remix proposal; he clears his views “I am not against remixes; but people should have some decorum while attempting remixes of great legends. They should realize that legends are legends and their masterpiece work should not be manipulated .If we cannot respect them, we should try to not deteriorate their creative works.

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ABHISHEK BACHCHAN SERVES CUTTING CHAI

THE ASIAN AGE (JUN 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

It’s a jet lagged Abhishek Bachchan that met the press for the promotion of his next release, director Soraj Barjatiya’s Mein Prem Ki Diwani Hoon. Just back from a shooting spell in Montreal, Canada, Skimmy Gupta decided to spice up the interview with some mouth watering questions.

It’s a tradition with the junior Bachchan to make tea for the unit of the film he is shooting for. From Refugee to his last release Om Jai Jagadish, the unit wallas have had a taste of the cutting chai with ginger and cardamom that AB makes. However with the Rajshris, the actor went one step forward. Known for his unhealthy diet which does not include fruit and vegetables, Sooraj and Abhishek had a bet. While the actor would try to convince his staunch vegetarian director to try out the non vegetarian delights, the director would enthuse his actor to eat vegetables. A grueling schedule in New Zealand saw Abhishek sample greens and more greens, while Sooraj refused to be tempted. However, the actor on the request of the unit members did go ahead and make mutton curry. A delicacy that is AB’s speciality.

The New Zealand outdoor shoot was painful for the junior Bachchan. While his co-stars, Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor enjoyed all sorts of adventure sports like bungee jumping and scuba diving, which was part of the script, Abhishek had to sit on the periphery. Perhaps a punishment for him, as his pranks on the set, drove the sedate and composed director crazy.

Joining him in creating mischief on the sets was his refugee heroine, Kareena. The two would gang up and pull pranks on the unit members. And in one instance, Sooraj fired Abhishek and then spent the next two hours apologizing.

And not many know that this prestigious project almost slipped from Abhishek’s hand. He received a call from Sooraj almost three years back when he was shooting in Hyderabad. The actor thinking it was a prank by one of his friends hung up on Sooraj, saying, “ya sure, you are Sooraj Barjatiya” and promptly hung up. After 5 minutes when the film maker once again called up, it was a very bashful Abhishek Bachchan who apologized and then went ahead to sign the film.

With just two weeks for the release of his film, Abhishek admits he is nervous and excited. And although astrologers and numerologists have advised him to drop the Bachchan surname from his name to achieve success, the actor is affronted at such a suggestion. He says, “This is a legacy of my grandfather and father who have worked hard to establish this name and I am very proud of it. No ways am I going to drop it.”

Following the release of Mein Prem Ki Diwani Hoon by a week is his Mumbai Se aaya Mera Dost and then Kuch Na Kaho. Currently the actor has five films on the floor. And if Sooraj Barjatiya’s film can turn the tide in his favour, 2003 will be Abhishek Bachchan’s to conquer.

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MEN IN WHITE

THE ASIAN AGE (MAR 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

We have heard of men in black, but the title of ‘men in white’ is original and is aptly suited to Bollywood director duo, Abbas and Mustan. Skimmy Gupta met them as they start work on their latest untitled film to discuss their latest project and most importantly what makes white such an attractive colour.

Q:After Humraaz, what is the next project that you are working on?A:For the first time, we have signed three films. The shooting of the first film by producer Gordhan Tanwani will start at end of the month and has a new star cast.

Q:Thriller films have always been your forte. What is it about genre that excites you?
A:We have made a film on social drama Chori Chori Chupke Chupke but we realized that its thrillers that excite us. And all our “who dunnit” films have been liked by the audience.

Q:Now coming to your dress code, why does white fascinate all the brothers?
A:We are four brothers and our fascination for white started after directing our first Gujrati film. We were assisting our uncle prior to that. After Baazigar was given to us, we started wearing white. And the only time we wore different suits was for the premier of Baazigar. The producer, Ratan Jain insisted that we wear coloured suits, so we wore a lemon and maroon suit and nobody recognized us. People were coming to us and asking for Abbas bhai and Mustan bhai. That was the last time we wore coloured suits.

Q:So how many white suits do you have?
A:We make four suits each every year, including white socks, handkerchiefs and shoes. When they fade or become slightly off coloured, we stitch new suits. And once a detergent company even offered us to endorse their product. But the brand was unknown and the money offered to us was very nominal. We refused.

Q:You have worked with a lot of new comers. Why is it so?
A:From the start of our career, we have worked with new artists like Preity Zinta in Soldier, Shilpa Shetty and Kajol in Baazigar. Arbaz Khan started his career with Daraar and the latest is Bipasha Basu in Ajnabee. Even Shah Rukh Khan had just signed two films when he did Baazigar with us. It’s a good feeling to work with people with new ideas and present them to the public.

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DIANA HAYDEN FORAYS INTO BOLLYWOOD

THE ASIAN AGE (FEB 2003)

By Skimmy Gupta

Diana Hayden, another beauty queen is set to rock Bollywood with her acting skills .The former Miss world will be acting in a Khalid Mohammed film ‘Tehzeeb’ which is scheduled to release this year. Diana has done training from London School of Acting and has also acted in film ‘Othello’. She did not want to limit herself to the west and now plans to make it big in Bollywood.

Skimmy Gupta spoke to Diana Hayden

Q.> Tell us something about your first Hindi movie?
A> I am working in a film ‘Tehzeeb’ by Khalid Mohammed which has star cast of Arjun Rampal, Urmila Matondkar, Shabana Azmi, Diya Mirza, Rishi Kapoor.The cinematography is by Santosh Sivan and music by A.R Rahman.The shooting schedules are already on and it is great working with such a talented team.

Q> What is your role in the movie?
A> I am playing a role of a publishing editor from New York and my journey to Mumbai and coping with the city life and situations.Although I am in a guest apperance, I still feel it is a powerful character role which will leave a mark on the audience.

Q>What made you enter Bollywood after such a long gap?
A> After the Miss World pageant in 1997,I got many ‘lovey-dovey’ type of offers in Bollywood which never interested me. I always wanted to do substantial and meaningful roles. I was busy doing movies in the west all this while, but things change and perspectives change. As I did now want to limit myself to west,I accepted this role “

Q>Who are your role models in the film industry?
A>My role models are Smita Patil, Zeenat Aman, Shabana Azmi and currently Tabu and Nandita Das.And I look forward to work in movies of Ram Gopal Varma and Shyam Benegal.

Q>What type of roles would you prefer doing in future?
A>I want to do meaningful roles and certainly not for the usual Bollywood stuff. As such I am already an established actress in the west,so I can always pick and choose roles that will satisfy me as a person and as an actress.

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