Ranbir doesn't copy anyone: Neetu Kapoor

She's in shape, smiles spotaneously and is considered the perfect housemaker. A star wife yesterday, she is a just a week away from becoming a star mother, with the release of Ranbir Kapoor's 'Saawariya'. Cut to  Neetu Kapoor in conversation with us.
 
Have you seen 'Saawariya' yet?


Yes, and I'm elated. I saw it yesterday I knew my son has been in perfect hands. Now I'm no longer stressed or nervous. Now, I'm proud. I'm essentially very shy about interviews, especially on TV. Once there was hardly any media around, today the scenario is so different.


On screen, is Ranbir more like Rishi Kapoor (Chintu) or you?


Honestly, Ranbir doesn't copy anyone, he has his own style. But I have to admit that his voice is more like his grandfather's (Raj Kapoor). I can confidently say that Ranbir is very talented. As far as dancing is concerned, Ranbir definitely has rhythm which is extremely important.


Is Chintu anxious? (Laughs)


He's very hyper, he calls me every five minutes from Chandigarh where he's shooting. I have to reassure him that I loved the film and it'll be fine. He will see 'Saawariya' only at the premiere.


Have you been visiting temples and fasting for your son?


(Smiles) I'm doing everything a mother would.

Are you surprised with the stories of Ranbir's link-ups?


I don't think they are true, the girls are only his friends. Everyone gets written about and anything is news. At home, we don't discuss the stuff written about Ranbir anymore.


Would he tell you if he fell in love?


(Laughs) Yes he would. A few years ago, he excitedly told me one day, "Mum I am in love." Did he confide in you about his heartbreak over the girl he liked? Oh yes! When he was going through it every morning I'd ask, "Are you okay? How is your heart?" He would smile, "Mum I'm doing fine, I'm much better, don't worry He's very emotional."


The one absolutely untrue news about Ranbir?


That he hit someone on the road. Ranbir is the most peace-loving boy you can know. He doesn't even get irritated. So how can he hit anyone?


With Riddhima married, do you hope to become a grand mom soon?


I had Riddhima nine months after my marriage. I was very naïve. These days, kids know their minds. Riddhima and her husband want to wait. He travels a lot because of his work, he wants her to be with him. I guess it's also because they hardly had any courtship. They married very soon. She's here with me, she's very excited for her brother.


Have you ever thought of making a comeback to the movies?


Not really. Chintu (Rishi Kapoor) and I were offered a film together. He had even said yes. Then I became busy with Riddhima's wedding, I don't know what happened to the project.


Actually, I would love to make a comeback with my husband because I'm comfortable with him. I would not like to go to the studios alone. I've been so deep into my family that I need them around all the time. One thing's for sure, if I do a film now, I don't want to be a typical mother.

Any regrets about turning down Jaya Bachchan's role in 'Kal Ho Naa Ho'?


(Smiles) I wasn't ready to do films then. I regret not doing it. Not only because it was a terrific role but because I missed a chance of working with Karan (Johar) whom I adore.


You're always smiling. Is that for real?


Oh, really? I can't sulk or put on a sullen face. I believe if you have a problem then solve it. If you're fat, do something, instead of whining. If someone irritates me, then I just cut off that person from my life.


Really, you can't be happy in an unhealthy atmosphere. I don't like people who are like complaint boxes. I'd love to work again but not at the cost of making anyone feel neglected.


You said you married too early. Was it a tough call at the age of 22?


I could have waited for a few more years and matured mentally. Frankly, I didn't have a mind of my own. Sometimes, I wish I had done a few more movies. Today when I'm asked for autographs, I wonder whatever for?


There's really no movie of mine that will be remembered. Anyway it's all turned out fine. How much longer could I have worked? Two three years and then what?


Have your views on marriage changed over the years?


Nope, they're the same. Marriage is for keeps. The romance may fade but it's for keeps. Priorities change but the love remains.

Is your husband your closest friend?


Yes. I've been married to him for 27 years now, I knew him for five years before that.


About 10 years ago, your marriage nearly hit the rocks. Whom did you turn to then?


My kids stood by me throughout. I realised how strong I can be. I could have fallen apart but I stood my ground. Life returned to normal. It was just a mid-life crisis. Every marriage goes through difficult times, ours was no different.


What lessons did you learn?


None. Every phase simply makes you stronger.When Riddhima went abroad to study for the first time, I cried for 10 days. The second time, I cried less.


And I didn't cry at all when Ranbir went to study abroad. It's not that I love Ranbir less. Obviously, I had become accustomed to my children leaving for long periods of time. I was weak and scared, today I'm not.


How's your relationship with your in-laws?


If I had been fake to them, they would have seen through me. If I have a problem with any one of my in-laws, I sort it out immediately Why let a problem fester? My mother-in-law treats me like a daughter. There's no typical saas bahu friction at all. Reema, my sister-in-law, has been a friend even before I got married.


What about your nieces Karisma and Kareena?


No comments.


Aren't you a role model for fit housewives?


Am I? Honestly I don't work out and eat healthy to look good. That's simply for my old age. I do yoga and work out religiously. Even if I've had a late night, I don't skip my workouts. Ranbir has also started eating right, he's completely off junk food. Riddhima is like me too, fanatical about living right.

'Jodhaa Akbar' website launched!

The first phase of the website of UTV Motion Pictures and Ashutosh Gowariker Productions' 'Jodhaa Akbar' has been launched. A film of this scale evokes curiosity and numerous inquiries and hence information will now be available to world wide audiences. Although the website is right now in its infancy, the next phase which will be launched around the time of the film's music launch, will unveil much more content for those looking for more information.


The first phase has a small note from Ashutosh Gowariker in the Director's Welcome Note and also lists the entire cast (along with the characters they play) and crew. All 5 of the posters which have been showcased so far are also available for download.


However if you are expecting to see the theatrical trailer on the website, then you will have to wait until Diwali as that is when the trailer will be uploaded on the site.  Users can register on the site now, and receive updates whenever new content is uploaded and also to take part in the Discussion Board which will also be launched on 9th November.


'Jodhaa Akbar' is a sixteenth century story about a marriage of alliance that gave birth to true love between the greatest Mughal emperor that ruled Hindustan, Jalaluddin Mohammad Akbar, and the fiery young Rajput princess, Jodhaa.


With Hrithik Roshan as Akbar and Aishwarya Rai as Jodhaa, the film is produced by UTV Motion Pictures and Ashutosh Gowariker Productions and is slated for release on 25th January 2008.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: Ageless Wonder...

Once crowned the most beautiful woman in the world, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has sashayed down the ramp and on to the silver screen with equal poise and elegance. A trained classical dancer, a model and a beauty queen...She had all the makings for a successful career in the Indian film industry. And so, when she made the step by making her first on-screen appearance in the Mani Ratnam flick 'Iruvar' opposite Mohanlal, the crowds just went ga-ga over her!.

 
Her foray into Bollywood started with her appearance in 'Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya' which did not click at the box-office. Her trump card came in the form of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam' in which her performance was lauded. The audience began to sit up and started taking notice of this beauty who smiled out at her audience, stifled a giggle and drew butterfly-wing lashes down over her olive-green eyes.

 
The movie was followed by another noteworthy performance in 'Taal'. The two movies are the only saving grace of her career as she has yet to prove that she can carry a movie on her shoulders. A string of blink and miss appearances, flops followed.

Of late, she has become more careful in choosing her projects and deciding on who she would work with. Her last performances in which she showed considerable mettle was in 'Guru' and 'Provoked'. It would be safe to say she works best when she is in the safe hands of a good director like a Mani Ratnam or a Sanjay Leela Bhansali. She has also done a number of forgettable Hollywood flicks of which 'Provoked' is worthy of mention here. 

 
Whatever we might say, Aishwarya Rai is today a name to reckon with and is easily rated among the top actresses of Bollywood.

The year started off with her flick 'Guru'. Aishwarya Rai stunned us with a powerful performance. Known for her angelic looks all the while, the actor made people sit up and notice the reservoirs of talent in 'Guru'. Also, the chemistry between Abhishek and Aishwarya was electrifying.

Next was 'Provoked' in which she plays a Punjabi woman who kills her husband after being at the receiving end of constant mental and physical torture. The one aspect that's absolutely flawless is the choice of the actor enacting the role of the protagonist -- Aishwarya Rai. Stunning is the word that has often been used for this ethereal beauty, but for a change, you want to use this word for her performance in this film. Her work in 'Provoked' easily ranks amongst her best.

The marriage billed as Bollywood's biggest wedding in a decade took place when two of Bollywood's biggest stars, Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan tied the knot in a modest ceremony at the Bachchan family home in Mumbai, India, the climax of three-days of festivities. Abhishek Bachchan arrived at the service astride a horse, wearing an off-white sherwani and a white turban bedecked with flowers. Aishwarya, believed to be wearing a red and gold hand-embroidered sari, arrived in a silver Mercedes decorated with flowers along with her mother and brother.The Bachchan mansion was turned into "a fortress" as 1,000 security personnel worked around the clock to prevent crazed fans from gatecrashing the ceremony.


Aishwarya Rai then bagged 'The Pink Panther' sequel with Andy Garcia, John Cleese, Alfred Molina, and, of course, Steve Martin. The movie it seems will have Aishwarya in a more promising role as she will be playing one of the detectives along with Alfred Molina and Andy Garcia. They will join French police detective Jacques Clouseau, played by Steve Martin.The movie is expected to release in 2009.

She was also in the news for her work in Ashutosh Gowariker 's 'Jodhaa Akbar'. 'Jodhaa Akbar' is a sixteenth century story about a marriage of alliance that gave birth to true love between the greatest Mughal emperor that ruled Hindustan, Jalaluddin Mohammad Akbar, and the fiery young Rajput princess, Jodhaa. With Hrithik Roshan as Akbar and Aishwarya Rai as Jodhaa, the film is produced by UTV Motion Pictures and Ashutosh Gowariker Productions and is slated for release on 25th January 2008.

She is also all set to star in a major film about the Taj Mahal, India's famous monument to love. Rai will play the role of Mumtaz Mahal, the favourite wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan who built the stunning monument for her. Oscar-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley, who will also be producing the $30m film, will play Shah Jahan.

Aishwarya Rai and the men in her life!


Previously with: Rajeev Mulchandani, Salman Khan, Vivek Oberoi

Current status: Married to Abhishek Bachchan


Aishwarya's relationship with Salman started on the sets of 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam' in 1998.The two year relationship ended when Salman became increasingly abusive. Aishwarya moved on and began seeing Vivek Oberoi. Salman could not come to terms with the situation and this led to some altercations between them.This relationship again failed to make it till the end. It was finally junior Bachchan who won the heart of one of the world's loveliest women, and after seeing each other for a while they tied the knot on April 20!

Daler Mehndi, journalists trade charges

 Bhangra-pop singer Daler Mehndi's words were no music to the ears of mediapersons as he picked up a verbal duel with them over controversies surrounding him in recent years.


The singer seemed quite irritated by the media's handling of his image in the last three to four years and even singled out journalists to remark about how they were trying to run him down. He even made personal attacks on a couple of journalists.


The press conference soon turned into a free-for-all as the journalists and Mehndi traded charges till the singer left the venue in a huff.


The controversy was centred on the lyrics of one of his songs where he indirectly attacks the previous Congress regime in Punjab.


Mehndi was arrested by the Punjab police in October 2003, when Amarinder Singh of the Congress was chief minister, on charges of being involved in a multi-million immigration scam.


He was accused of accepting money from people for taking them abroad as members of his musical group and thus help them immigrate illegally. His brother Shamsher Singh was also arrested in the same case.


Mehndi, who is performing in Punjab these days in connection with the launch of a private Punjabi TV channel owned by a leading politician of the ruling Akali Dal, denied that the lyrics of his Punjabi song were targeted at Amarinder Singh or the Congress.


He had recently stated that he had penned the song while languishing in Patiala jail in 2003.


"I don't understand why the media hounds me everywhere. No one wants to write about my singing or the social work I have done for earthquake relief, Kargil heroes or tree plantation in Delhi. You just want to run me down," Mehndi lamented.

Sanjay Dutt has visitors at Yerwada jail

Sanjay Dutt lodged in Yerwada jail here following his conviction in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, had visitors Wednesday: his friend Manyata and brother-in-law Kumar Gaurav.


The two visitors, who entered the jail at 11.55 a.m. and were with Sanjay Dutt till 12.20 p.m., chose not to speak to the waiting mediapersons.


This is Dutt's second stint at Yerwada. He surrendered before the TADA Court in Mumbai last week after receiving a copy of the judgement. He has been held guilty of possessing an AK-56 rifle ahead of the serial blasts that killed 257 people.


He was first taken to the Arthur Road jail in Mumbai, from where he was sent to Yerawada jail.


Dutt's lawyers are hopeful of getting a bail for him before Diwali, which falls on Nov 9.

Court puts Aamir's brother in father's custody

 A Mumbai court ordered Faisal Khan, brother of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, to remain in the temporary custody of his father, retired filmmaker Tahir Hussain, for a period of one month after a medical report said his mental condition was not stable.


Metropolitan Magistrate Pankaj Shah of the Bandra Metropolitan Court also ruled that since Faisal appeared to be mentally disturbed as per a medical report submitted to the court, he must report to a local police station every alternate day to mark his presence and undergo a check-up and treatment at the state-run J.J. Hospital in south Mumbai.


In case Faisal's behaviour was found abnormal during the one-month period, the police were ordered to take him into custody immediately to prevent any untoward incident, the magistrate ruled, and ordered Faisal to appear before the court after a month.


Faisal, 41, suffers from periodic lapses into schizo-affective psychosis, according to the psychiatry department of the J.J. Hospital.


He was produced before the court following a missing-person complaint lodged by his mother Zeenat, sister Nikhat and brother Aamir with the Khar police station on Oct 15.


The next day they filed an application contending that Faisal was mentally unstable and needed to be admitted to hospital for treatment.

World premiere of 'OSO' at London

The reigning King of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan, is set to take London by storm at the Red Carpet World Premiere for the release of the colossal film, 'Om Shanti Om' – the most breathtaking and monumental Bollywood film bonanza of the year – descending upon the Empire, Leicester Square on Thursday, November 8.


Presented by Eros International, the one and only King Khan, Shah Rukh, will bring the electrifying glamour, glory and stardust of Bollywood to London's West End, as the entire square will become a bedazzling Bollywood spectacle, to celebrate the long-awaited release of 2007's biggest blockbuster – 'Om Shanti Om'.


The full glory of Bollywood cinema will descend upon London's Leicester Square, as King Khan, joins a host of the industry's most magnanimous, including demure debutante, Deepika Padukone, Arjun Rampal, Shreyas Talpade and Karan Johar, who will partake in a Q&A session at the Media Conference, before gracing the evening's Red Carpet World Premiere.


Kishore Lulla, Chairman and CEO of Eros International comments, "Eros has always enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Shah Rukh Khan, and we are looking forward to the release of 'Om Shanti Om' during the festive season of Diwali. It is one of the most awaited films of the year and we are excited to be leveraging Eros' global distribution in promoting the film."


'Om Shanti Om' is releasing in cinemas worldwide on November 9.

Priyanka Chopra becomes a superhero!

 Boom Crash Bang! Make way people….for here comes the superhero! For a change, this time, it's not a he, it's a she! The world knows her as Priyanka Chopra; the girl who has attempted almost everything that others can only dream of: Miss World, model, and now a movie star, without ever compromising on her Numero Uno position.


When others were running around the bushes romancing their 'normal' heroes, Priyanka went a step further to romance a superhero in 'Krrish', which was India's answer to the likes of Superman and Batman.


And now, life has come a full circle for her, as 'Virgin Comics' has created a new superhero character after Priyanka, which will be furthered to comic books, animation and games. Priyanka said that since she loves cartoons and animations, being able to create her own original superhero with Virgin's amazing group of artists and storytellers was 'a dream come true'! The superhero will be an adopted girl who discovers that she is the latest in the line of princesses with great mystical powers and a sworn duty to take down evil wherever it lurks. The so-far untitled story is expected to have a 2008 launch, which will be further taken into animation games and even a theatrical live-action film! What remains to be seen is if this beauty will succeed in her animated duty.

JJ Valaya not for Bollywood

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JJ Valaya
And how come we haven't seen the Valaya name associated with a Bollywood film yet



He's been in the business for 16 years and even today, JJ Valaya rules the desi fashion frat. Having seen itall right from the start, he marvels at how far Indian fashion has traversed. The change from the early days of the contemporary Indian fashion movement which I credit Rohit Khosla with starting has been significant. Fashion as a profession has gained the respect of everyone, he says.

It started with a love for painting in school, as well as an exposure to fine embroidery through his mother, a kidswear designer. I'm a firm believer in God and destiny, he says, Everything has its time. Even today, I wouldn't say Indian fashion has arrived, but it's close to being accepted.

Globally, we've just taken our first few steps. What's important is that India's being noticed. That's also because we are the hotspot of the moment. Everything that comes out of India gets more focus, and there are more Indian influences in international collections than ever before.

Armani is doing churidar pants and the jacket saree, and if you see Hermes' latest collection, you can swear it's Indian. Jean Paul Gaultier is heavily inspired by India and even on the streets, there's so much of India. It's all a good sign, but not a barometer of our success, he says.

Change is everywhere, he adds, and predicts that 3-4 major Indian labels will make their international presence felt very soon. But what about the newbies in the desi market? While there's a major influx of new talent, fashion is still dominated by the biggies. Those who come in first always have the advantage, he points out.

Louis Vuitton is a 140-year-old label. One new label that has made a splash is Dolce and Gabbana, and that's 22-years old! And out west, the exposure to fashion is different, the market is mature. Europe has a history, a foundation of credible fashion.

The mantra for success lies in one's ability to keep up with the times, he says. Every year, you have to be alive to change, yet stick to your recognisable strengths or you will seem fickle. And branding is huge logos are getting bigger! Indian designers have yet to understand this.

And how come we haven't seen the Valaya name associated with a Bollywood film yet, when every designer seems to be jumping onto the filmi bandwagon? No movies, he says firmly, We're waiting for the right break. As a brand, we can't be associated with anything small. I need to be convinced that the project will suit our interests, only then will we venture into cinema. And certainly in no low-budget production.

As for stars walking the ramp, another popular trend of late, Valaya is quite firm. I'm not sure I agree with the trend. The clothes are the champion after all. And when you are putting together 6-8 months of hard work into a 30-minute show, having a star there is distracting, he says. Valaya also won't name any of his celebrity clients. I grant my clients total privacy, he says, then relents to say, Besides the usual suspects, we do a lot with royalty outside India, especially the Middle East. All of us at the top deal with the same clients.

ith his ready-to-wear collection on the anvil, he's thrilled that his design will be accessible to all. I'm as excited to have Nicole Kidman wear my designs as five people I might come across at a mall!

Miss Bollywood to begin shows in UK from Nov 3

London, Oct 29: After its successful launch in Germany, Indian actress Shilpa Shetty's new musical, 'Miss Bollywood' will perform in the UK with the first of its eight shows to be held at opera house in Manchester on November 3.

'Miss Bollywood' is a musical extravaganza that uses spectacular choreography and stages the story of 'Maya', a 1 young classical trained choreographer who finds herself thrust into the limelight where she must sink or swim. The troupe comprises 40 dancers from Bollywood and UK.

Her tribulations include the unwanted attentions of a famous but predatory choreographer and a jealous diva.

With Shilpa playing the lead character Maya, the musical promises to take its audiences on a two-hour roller coaster ride behind the scenes and backstage in the world of Bollywood.

This fun-filled musical is a celebration of Bollywood's kitsch and splendour as well as it's unique brand of humour in a colourful, contemporary and yet cultured representation of the Hindi film industry.

The musical will be held in Cardiff (St David's Hall), Bradford (St George's Hall), Aberdeen (His Majesty's Theatre), Glasgow, (Clyde Auditorium), Birmingham (Alexandra Theatre), Cambridge (Corn Exchange) and London (Royal Albert Hall). The show at the Royal Albert Hall will be held on November 12.

Shilpa, a household name in the UK after her success in the 'Big Brother', said the show would not only cater to Bollywood's fans but also those who like dance and musical theatre.

She would recapture on stage some of Bollywood's greatest hits of the past 40 years. This is the first time that a musical on Bollywood is being enacted by an actor of the industry.

Bollywood film debut for Jackie

FORMER Bahrain resident and Miss Sri Lanka 2006, Jackie Fernandez, is set to make her acting debut in a Bollywood film next year.

The former Sacred Heart School student will play the role of Princess Jasmine in a Hindi blockbuster based on the animated Disney classic Aladdin.

She will star alongside Bollywood icons Amitabh Bachchan and Sanjay Dutt.

Mr Bachchan will play the genie, while Mr Dutt stars as the villain Jaffer and upcoming actor Riteish Deshmukh will play Aladdin.

"I'm really excited about working on it because it will be the first of its kind in Bollywood," she told the GDN yesterday.

"The special effects will be done by the same people who worked on some of the Harry Potter, Matrix and Spiderman movies."

The 22-year-old star believes her rigorous schedule, which involves training at the gym from 6am everyday followed by classes in kickboxing and the traditional Indian dance form Kathak, is a stepping stone to success and says she feels confident around the camera.

She has also been taking acting classes for the past three months, as well as Hindi classes in preparation for her role.

"I think I'm pretty used to having the camera around now after I did segments on TV shows in Sri Lanka and even as a model, so I'm not nervous about them anymore," she said.

"I think what intimidates me more is that I'll be working with these established actors, who are huge stars and I'll pronounce words wrong because of my accent."

The model-turned-actress, who has been living in Bandra, Mumbai, for the past five months didn't rule out acting in an Arabic film in future, but said she would concentrate more on India for the moment.

She also said that although Sri Lankan cinema was on the rise, she was more attracted to the Indian film industry.

"There's so much happening in India now-adays and career-wise, it's definitely the place to be," said Ms Fernandez.

"Whether it's acting or modelling, Bollywood is where it's at."

She returned to Mumbai last night after a brief holiday in Bahrain and will begin shooting for the film in the next two weeks.

The film will be directed by Sujoy Ghosh and is set in modern-day India.

It is due to be released by next October following post-production to coincide with the Hindu festival of lights Diwali.

Eros sets up India's first action studio

India's first action studio will be set up by integrated media and entertainment company, Eros International, to match up with the international quality of action movies. The action studio will encompass all the facilities meeting to the requirements which can bring Bollywood action thrillers at par with that of Hollywood.

Eros, to match up with the Hollywood flicks like Mission Impossible, Fast and the Furious, Charlie's Angles and many more will collaborate with the well-known international person to start the studio. With action studio becoming a division of Eros itself, the company unlikely to form a separate fully-owned subsidiary will employ the stunt men and train them at an international level.

Eros also, boasts of a subsidiary called 'Eyeqube Studios Private Limited' as one of its achievements so far in visual effects industry, in an alliance with leading visual effects artist Charles Darby, who holds a minority stake. To which Jyoti Deshpande, COO and commercial director, Eros International said what has been done till now is a beginning. Initiatives taken in future in the area of action will finally make the dream of capturing their imagination in frame true.

Eros claims to make 3 to 4 action based films under its production banner and will also let other filmmakers avail this opportunity on lease. The studio is expected to be functioning by 2008.

Great expectations for Bhagyashree

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Bhagyashree

A dream debut does not guarantee success. For those who had everything going for them but couldn't make it big

Bollywood is a land of dreams. Whether they come true or are shattered is a different matter altogether. Your dream debut may make you the flavour of the season, but how long you last depends on your destiny.

Bollywood has many newbies trying their luck ever year while some get lost among reels of the films, others shine through. But no one can point out what makes a newcomer click with the audience.

And this does not apply only to those who don't belong to the filmi families. BT takes a look at some of the actors who had everything going for them, but couldn't find the password for success...

When Kumar Gaurav entered the industry with Love Story, which was among the highest grossers that year, people expected big things from him. With his chocolate-boy looks Gaurav was an instant hit among girls.

He was the new poster-boy of the industry. But something went wrong. His next few releases which included Teri Kasam, Star, Romance, All Rounder and Hum Hain Lajawaab failed to create a buzz at the cash register.

His next noticeable movie was Naam, which proved to be a hit, but Sanjay Dutt walked away with all the applause for the film. Dad Rajendra Kumar made one final attempt to resurrect Gaurav's career with Phool that had him opposite Madhuri Dixit, but that film too sank at the box-office taking with it a promising career.

Kunal Goswami's movie Kalakaar which had him singing the hit number Neele neele amber par was a box-office bumper and while many thought this was the rise of another star son, destiny had other plans.

A couple of attempts were made to resurrect his career, but nothing came off it. Bhagyashree in Maine Pyaar Kiya was just what every mother wanted for their son. The girl-next-door-image worked big time for Bhagyashree.

But the actress got married to longtime boyfriend Himalaya even before Maine Pyaar Kiya released. Post-marriage Bhagyashree decided that she would act only in movies that featured her hubby. Some producers did make the mistake of signing this jodi, but flops like Quaid Mein Hai Bulbul and Paayal sealed their fate. The actress later turned to television and is sometimes seen as the sister or bhabhi in some films.

Rahul Roy and Anu Agarwal didn't belong to a filmi family and yet they didn't have anything to complain about when they made their debut in Mahesh Bhatt's Aashiqi.

The songs of this movie were chartbusters and the movie went on to be a huge hit. In the heat of the moment Rahul Roy signed many films. The actor found himself running from one studio to another trying to keep up with his commitments. Somewhere in the whole running around, quality was compromised on and a promising debut resulted into a disastrous career. The same holds true for Anu who did movies like Gazab Tamasha and Khalnayika and then did a disappearing act.

When you are launched in a Subhash Ghai film the whole industry sits up and takes notice of you. After all the director brought actors like Jackie Shroff, Madhuri Dixit, Meenakshi Sheshadri, Manisha Koirala and Mahima Chaudhary into the limelight. So, it was obvious that people were curious to see more of Vivek Mushran whose mannerisms in his debut film Saudagar were similar to those of Dev Anand's. Unfortunately unlike the veteran Vivek had a small inning at the box office. Vivek was last seen in Ghai's Kisna — The Warrior Poet. Besides that the actor has been seen in a few TV serials too.

With Aamir Khan as your brother, it's obvious that people have high expectations of you. But Faisal Khan couldn't handle the pressure. The actor was launched in Madhosh that was directed by Vikram Bhatt, but the movie failed to create any ripples. Faisal too didn't get too many offers. He gave the glam world another shot with Mela that was directed by Dharmesh Darshan and also had brother Aamir Khan to add to the star appeal. But that attempt too didn't help him to re-launch his career. The actor was back in news recently, but not for anything related to Bollywood. His mental condition was being questioned when the actor disappeared from his home. A court battle for his custody is still on. Certainly a very sad twist to the tale.

Sanjay Kapoor couldn't make it big like brother Anil Kapoor. It wasn't as if after an average Prem no one signed Sanjay. In fact he gave hits like Raja opposite Madhuri Dixit and Sirf Tum opposite Sushmita Sen, but something just didn't go right for Sanjay. In the past few years he has turned towards negative roles like in Koi Mere Dil Se Poochhe and Qayamat: City Under Threat.

The actor has now turned producer, we hear.Star brothers — Arbaaz and Sohail Khan — couldn't match the hysteria that brother Salman Khan creates with every release. While Arbaaz made an unconventional debut in a negative role in Daraar as Juhi's Obsessive husband, Sohail first made his debut as a director with Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya. Though the film was success Sohail couldn't repeat the success when he made his debut as an actor with Maine Dil Tujh Ko Diya.

Gracy Singh was the object of envy for many actresses when she was chosen to play the lead opposite Aamir Khan in Lagaan. Her performance was liked by the audience as well as the critics. Not just that, she found a bigger hit with Munnabhai MBBS. But the actress was stuck with a behenji image and could never break away from it. A few flops like Aarman, Wajahh: A Reason to Kill, Shart and Muskaan ensured that Gracy was forgotten by all. Bhoomika Chawla too had similar fate. With a huge hit like Tere Naam under her belt people felt Bhoomika would be perfect as the girl-next-door. But the actress couldn't repeat her success and despite working opposite actors like Salman Khan and Abhishek Bachchan she couldn't make it big!

Some romances succeed and some fail. And often the ones that fail are remembered by people. Unfortunately that doesn't hold true for a debutant who's all set to romance Bollywood. As the arc-lights fade so do the memories...

Shahid was like a buddy:Amrita

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Amrita Prakash

It was hard to miss Amrita Prakash, aka 'Chutki' in Vivaah. After all, this actress has been donning pancake ever since she was four

Amrita Prakash — yes, that's the actress who essayed the role of ' Chutki ' in Sooraj Barjatya's Vivaah and won our hearts with her perfect rendering of the innocent, naive little sister act.

She's busy these days with her latest television daily Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai . Amrita has had a successful career as a child artist and is now concentrating on creating a niche for herself in Tellywood as well as Bollywood. So, does the actress feel a difference in the working pattern of the two mediums? "In films, there is scope for an actor to grow. But in television dailies, one has to perform within the frame of the serial. There are eight-to-nine scenes to be performed daily and so there is an absolute lack of focus on performance." says Amrita.

"There is a difference in the way Bollywood and regional cinema works as well." adds the actress who has also worked in Malayalam cinema.

"Bollywood is more commercial. Whereas down South, the script is a priority. It is also more organised and ranks high on professionalism." elaborates the actress who has recently signed three Bollywood movies.

The actress did her first ad campaign at an age of four. Gradually, she took to acting as a full time profession. Was acting a conscious decision of hers? "It's my family that got me into acting. My parents en-couraged me a lot and were supportive throughout. I just started off, and then the work started flowing." laughs the actress.

She adds, "I did the balancing act between movies and school. I have no grudges or regrets in life. Everything that I have ever taken up has only got me to new heights." says Amrita who has mastered the art of time management.

When asked about her working experience with the new heartthrob of millions, Shahid Kapur and the lovely lass, Amrita Rao, Am-rita(Prakash) is quick to answer. "Shahid was like a buddy on the sets and Jiji (Amrita Rao) really treated me as her younger sister. They are two very grounded souls." says Amrita.

The new cadre of actresses in Bollywood don't seem to mind the skin show. How comfortable is the aspiring actress with the concept? "I wouldn't be doing it any ways, neither on the big screen nor on television. Instead of opting for scripts demanding it, I would rather prefer going for family oriented roles." holds Amrita.

Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra's arrived. The second female ever to win a Filmfare Best Villain Award for her role in Aitraaz, Priyanka's now enjoying the limelight as the leading lady in a number of Bollywood flicks.

After Krrish, Don and Salaam-e-Ishq, Priyanka is doing Love Story 2050, Drona and God Tussi Great Ho. In fact, Love Story 2050, a futuristic film, promises to show her in a 'shockingly' different role. And Hollywood offers are pouring in as well, keeping Priyanka Chopra on a high.

Another thing taking her high is India's win at the Twenty20 World Cup. Yes, the lady's a cricket enthusiast and we couldn't resist asking her about the nation's win in South Africa. "I am so excited!

We won the World Cup! It was really a nail biting match. The boys put up an exceptional show in spite of Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly's absence. MS Dhoni's captaincy was fantastic. He supported the team very well. I loved the team work," she gushes at the mere mention of the final match between the Indian and Pakistani cricket teams.

Priyanka says she was positive India was going to bring home the cup.

"When India won the toss, I felt it was a sign. I hope every child in India forgets the last World Cup and remembers this win for years to come. No one expected a final between India and Pakistan. And I think Shah Rukh Khan's presence proved a lucky charm," she says of her Don co-star.

Some of her exuberance, however, fades when you steer the topic to her injury. On the sets of Drona, Priyanka experienced a mishap. "I tore my abdomen muscle while doing a somersault stunt for a combat scene in Drona without warming up. I thought I was Krrish! But I couldn't relax. I had to shoot for a song sequence immediately after. I used some ice packs and plasters to heal it," says the brave beauty. In Drona, Priyanka plays bodyguard to Abhishek Bachchan's character.

Talking about abs, Did she see SRK's? He's sporting a beefy look these days. "I think his efforts are really commendable. I think he inspires everybody to have a great physique. In fact, I am all inspired to hit the gym now," she replies. The gym workout might help if rumors are to be believed. It seems that the former Miss World is being considered for Madhur Bhandarkar's Fashion, a bleak look at the underbelly of the glam world.

Ask her about this and she is non-committal. "Nothing is final at the moment, so I can't comment on it," she says. Priyanka shies away from comment when you ask about her legal battle with former secretary Prakash Jaju too. "The matter has been finalized and we have come to a mutual agreement" is all she is willing to divulge.

Catch her on whether she features in the sequel to Krrish and her reply is near about the same. "I don't know yet. That's something you would have to ask Rakesh Roshan. Do ask him," she smiles. If fielding uncomfy questions was an Olympic game, Priyanka would win hands down!

On Hollywood rumors, however, she is more forthcoming. Reports say that Priyanka turned down Ashok Amritraj's Hollywood production. "The dates didn't work out. I have been busy shooting for Love Story 2050 and Drona. There's also God Tussi Great Ho. In between these I couldn't find the time to accommodate his film," she reveals.

However, this doesn't mean that the model-actress is not considering Hollywood projects. It's just that she wants to choose carefully. "I want to be king of one than be a jack of all. But that doesn't mean I won't do English films. Whether it is a Hindi film or Kannada or Bengali, as long as it interests me, I'll do it," she avers. Going global her way, that's Priyanka for you.