Bollywood star seeks bail in deadly bombings case

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, jailed for six years for getting guns from gangsters involved in India's worst bombing, challenged his conviction in the Supreme Court on Thursday and sought bail.

The actor was convicted for taking an AK-56 rifle and a pistol from gangsters linked to the bombings in which 257 people were killed in the financial capital, Mumbai, in 1993.

Dutt's appeal said his conviction by a special anti-terrorism court was based on a confession he later retracted. It said the confession was obtained under duress.

"For a confession to be accepted, it must be voluntary and free from any kind of pressure and coercion," Dutt's petition said.

The petition, which said the actor should be given bail because there was no chance of him fleeing, also urged that he be released on probation because he was a first-time offender whose actions had not harmed anyone.

A special Mumbai court sentenced Dutt in August. But he got bail from the Supreme Court after spending 24 days in jail until he was served a copy of the judgment so he could challenge it in the country's highest court.

Dutt, 48, was handed a copy of the more than 4,300-page judgment on Monday, after which he surrendered and was sent back to prison in the western Indian city of Pune.

The actor is now seeking to stay out of jail while the Supreme Court hears his petition challenging the verdict. An appeal in the court could take years to be heard.

Even the bail petition could take days to come up, but in India celebrity cases are sometimes expedited.

Dutt has said he acquired the weapons to protect his family during communal riots in 1993.

 
Actor Sanjay Dutt

NEW DELHI: Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt moved the Supreme Court on Thursday, challenging his conviction and six-year imprisonment awarded by the TADA court in the "1993 Mumbai bomb blasts case". He also filed an interim application seeking a direction to release him on bail.

Dutt said the prosecution case was that he was in possession of an illegal weapon from January 16, 1993, to April 12, 1993 (in the notified area under the TADA Act). Further, it stated that he was in possession of a 9-mm pistol from September 1992. He said no arms or ammunition were recovered from him or his residence or at his instance.

He said there was no credible evidence against him and the prosecution had failed to discharge the burden cast upon it.

The procedure adopted by the trial court was in utter violation of the Criminal Procedure Code and Article 21 of the Constitution (right to life and liberty), he argued, adding that his conviction was entirely based on inadmissible evidence, and, as such, the judgment rendered by the trial court was erroneous in law and consequently unsustainable.

The actor said the TADA court judge had acquitted him of any involvement in the conspiracy in the case and convicted him for an offence under the Arms Act. Hence the rigorous conditions for grant of bail would not apply to him.

Dutt said that during the pendency of the trial he was on bail for over 12 years.

During this period he had abided by all the conditions stipulated in the bail order.

He prayed for quashing the impugned judgment and his release on bail until the disposal of the criminal appeal.

Many people love to download cell phone ringtones, wallpapers and screensavers that represent their favorite musicians, movies and actors or actresses. Of course, it only makes sense that the place where more movies come out of than anywhere else in the world should also inspire phone downloads. And that place isn't Hollywood, it's Bollywood. Now there are Bollywood ringtones available for the most popular Indian songs and movie themes.
Many Bollywood ringtones have already been available online for mobile phones, but the market is expanding. Whatever the cellular phone make and model, Bollywood can be a part of the phone theme. Bollywood ringtones show the culture's music and movie diversity. Within a number of minutes anyone can download cell phone ringtones of their favorite Bollywood hits from their personal computer, or directly from their cell phones.
There are a number of Bollywood cell phone ringtones available for consumers to download from any part of the globe. There are many popular Bollywood ringtone songs by various artists, but the more popular the artist, the more of their songs that will be available as phone downloads. Consumers should find many cell phone downloads by Lata Mangeshkar, the very popular and highly awarded Indian singer who is also a Guinness record-holder for recording 30,000 songs.
Other cell phone ringtones may be available for Bollywood artists such as Kishore Kumar, the actor and singer who popularized yodeling in Bollywood musicals. Other popular Bollywood ringtones come from artists like Sonu Nigam, Kavita Krishnamurthy, and the late Hemant Kumar, who was a celebrated Bollywood singer and composer in the 1950s and 1960s.
Today's cellular phone users have an amazing array of cell phone ringtone downloads to choose from. The wide availability of Bollywood ringtones in the United States is just one example of the growing global community of cellular phone users. Whether it's Bollywood songs, heavy metal tracks, reggae jams, alternative tunes or any other kind of cell phone music someone wants, they should be able to find it online. Consumers can download cell phone ringtones from virtually any musical genre. Since Bollywood is the largest film and musical industry in the world, it's no surprise that Bollywood artists are breaking into the cell phone ringtones market. Cell phone ringtones have actually taken precedence over CD singles when it comes to tracking the latest hit songs. With Bollywood cell phone music becoming widely available, it's obvious what a global hit their music industry has become.

WHEN Shah Rukh Khan's new image gets more airtime and print space than world issues, you know why he is called the King of Bollywood.

The much-flogged publicity shots of the 41-year-old actor's new rippling biceps and six-pack abdominal muscles were even hotly discussed at a recent leadership summit in New Delhi.

Shah Rukh's abs, which are the focus of the trailers for his soon-to-be released film, Om Shanti Om, have fans from Mumbai to Melbourne buzzing.

He plays the romantic lead in this love story about two lovers from 1977 being reincarnated in 2007.

The trailers, which can be found online on many video-sharing websites, feature a song and dance segment from the film where Shah Rukh emerges from a pool clad in a tight pair of denims.

The rest of the video has him prancing as a construction worker, both topless with a hard hat and in an unbuttoned white shirt surrounded by Caucasian back-up dancers.

Those new killer abdominal muscles are on full display.

Posters of him posing topless are also available for fans to download from the film's website.

Om Shanti Om is directed by Shah Rukh's good friend Farah Khan and produced by his company, Red Chillies Entertainment.

Why is Bollywood's top romantic leading man, who has never performed topless in his films before, going down the path of shameless exhibitionism like Salman Khan?

Salman, 42, has a reputation for showing off his muscles on and off the movie set.

Perhaps peer pressure has finally made Shah Rukh give in.

He told The Times of India: 'The second half of the film required me to look like the current crop of stars with long hair and toned body.

HARD WORK

'Today's stars are so physically fit that I had to work harder on myself. My son always thought I was fat... but now he thinks I look stronger.'

Director Farah who wanted her star to buff up for the film joked: 'He'd promised me that if he ever pumped up and took his shirt off for the cameras, the first time would be for me.'

He told film magazine Screen Weekly: 'I was always keen on this, but thanks to my back problems I was unable to follow up on it. So now I do back exercises, some 500 to 700 crunches every day and diet control.

'I have always looked up to Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan for being so disciplined and focused in this matter. They guided me too.'

This is not the first time Shah Rukh has created ripples over his body.

In 2005, he was featured in a Lux ad titled Dream Girls where he was shown soaking in a luxurious tub of pink and red rose petals surrounded by actresses Hema Malini, Kareena Kapoor, Juhi Chawla and Sridevi.

But his body then was not as taut as it is now.

Media reports in India speculated that Shah Rukh's reinvention is because he feels threatened by younger, sexier stars like model-turned-actor John Abraham.

But the actor rubbished the idea, telling The Press Trust of India: 'I am trying to play a young, 2007 film star who has a six pack and long hair. I was under no pressure (from the younger actors).

'If you think I am scared of being dethroned as the King of Bollywood, I would say 'shut up'.'

Yet another reason could simply be a commercial one.

MARKETING STRATEGY

Film journalist Priyanka Sinha wrote in her column in Screen Weekly that flogging the star's new body was a marketing strategy.

Om Shanti Om will be released on 9 Nov, the same time as the much-hyped Sanjay Leela Bhansali film, Saawariya (Beloved).

The romantic film stars newcomers Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor (no relation) and is marketed and distributed by Hollywood film company, Sony Pictures.

There are reports that Ranbir, 25, also shows off his body in the film.

Both films have had extensive coverage in the Indian media.

Ms Priyanka said: 'The timing is significant - the two films are slated for Diwali (Deepavali) release and SRK (Shah Rukh Khan), always ahead of the pack, has learnt his lessons in media relations well.

'Khan has gone to town, using every available platform to wax eloquent about his six-pack abs, why and how he acquired them, the brand new heroine of his film, Deepika Padukone, and all else related to his forthcoming film.'

But all the publicity seems to be working, reported The Times of India.

While stars like Hrithik and Salman have always been fitness icons, it seems that it is Shah Rukh's transformation which has made the most impact.

The newspaper quoted trainers saying that many of their 40-something clients have come in asking for the Shah Rukh six-pack.

As for his fans, his new body gives them one more excuse to adore their idol.

Student Nur Syabrina Hosneh, 18, told The New Paper that while his new image was 'cool', he doesn't need to take his shirt off to be hot.

She said: 'He will always be loved by others because of his talent and personality.

'He does not need to show off his muscles to gain fame or popularity.'

About a legend: Ritu Nanda along with Ranbir Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor at the book launch in Delhi on Tuesday.

NEW DELHI: It was an emotional moment for the First Family of Bollywood. Raj Kapoor's young grandson Ranbir Kapoor, whose debut film "Saawariya" hits the theatres next month, released a book on the legendary filmmaker here on Tuesday.

The book in Hindi has been penned by the gifted filmmaker's daughter Ritu Nanda.

Speaking on the occasion, Ranbir said it was an honour and a humbling experience for him to release the book titled "Raj Kapoor": "On many occasions I have been asked how it feels to be born into the Kapoor family. Well, I don't have readymade answers but The Showman continues to be omnipresent. The book written by Ritu Bua will give me an insight into his life and the magic of cinema he left behind for posterity."

Ranbir said the Kapoor "khandaan" was the only family in the world of cinema where four successive generations have been associated with the film industry and who have dedicated their lives successfully to entertaining people.

Stating that everyone in his family was inspired by his father, Rishi Kapoor said Raj Kapoor's contribution towards the film industry was immense. "Ritu has done all of us proud by putting together his life as seen from close quarters. There are a lot of unknown facets about him which this book will bring into light. All of us have gathered today to show solidarity for her efforts."

Earlier in the day, Rishi accompanied by his son Ranbir and sister Ritu went to Rashtrapati Bhavan to present a commemorative copy of the book to President Pratibha Patil. "The President showered her blessings on Ranbir and it was a proud moment for all of us. I am sure that the film-loving public will continue to love and bless Ranbir just as they did my grandfather Prithviraj Kapoor, father Raj Kapoor, and other members of our family," said Rishi.

The book gives a comprehensive account of Raj Kapoor's life as a person and as a filmmaker, his relationship with his children, his passion for movie-making and his much talked about films.

 

22 October 2007 (Sawf News) - Their film is backed by one of Hollywood's biggest production companies - Sony Pictures, it is directed by one of India's best directors - Sanjay Leela Bhansali and its story was penned by one of the world's most well known authors - Fyodor Dostoevsky.

The upcoming Deepavali release of Saawariya is the first Indian film produced by a Hollywood company - Sony Pictures.

Ranbir, 25, is the son of renowned actor-couple Neetu-Rishi Kapoor, and cousin of actresses Karisma and Kareena Kapoor. Sonam, 22, is the daughter of Anil Kapoor, another prominent veteran in the film industry.

 

In Saawariya, Ranbir plays artist Raj, who meets a young woman with a past, Sakina (Sonam), in a chance encounter and they fall madly in love. Based on the short story "White Nights" by 19th century Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky, Saawariya (Beloved) recounts the passionate love affair over four successive nights.

The presence of Salman Khan and Rani Mukerji in the film is likely to be an added draw and a safety net.

Saawariya has everything going for it so far except the audiences. The pre-release hype has ensured they will come, at least during the first couple of weeks. Going by the promos, Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor have the screen presence to draw audiences on their own. But the promos don't tell all - Diction and dialog delivery,

Mumbai: Star-in-waiting Sonam Kapoor showed up at an event on Saturday to promote designer Anuradha Vakil's autumn-winter collection. It was an emotional gesture for the lady who designed Sonam's costumes in her debut film Saawariya.

Already, there have been knee-jerk comparisons with Madhubala and Sadhana. But hang on..she has a certain individuality.. she's a new millennium girl who knows her heart and mind.

Parents Anil and Sunita Kapoor were hesitant to let her skip off to the studio world where angels fear to tread. But she was resolute.Well read and well-mannered, she's the girl from the Juhu- Vile Parle Scheme who was tipped to go places.

Sonam Kapoor is caught before take-off by Roshmila Bhattacharya

Ranbir Kapoor says that he loves Ranvir Raj, his Saawariya character, because he's so much like him. How close do you feel to your character?
Oh no, Sakina is nothing like me and that's why I love her. I became an actress, so I could play someone who's not like me at all. I'm a true Gemini.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's new film is a moving romantic feature that has taken the bold step of casting two scions of famous Bollywood clans as leads in their debut. 

THE upcoming Deepavali release Saawariya is not just the first Indian film produced by a Hollywood company – Sony Pictures – it also marks the debut of two bright young stars, Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor. They play the lead roles of star-crossed lovers in the musical movie. 

And nope, the two are unrelated though their names indicate Bollywood royalty and they have known each other since childhood. Ranbir, 25, is the son of renowned actor Rishi Kapoor, and a cousin of the actresses Karisma and Kareena Kapoor. Twenty-two-year-old Sonam is the daughter of Anil Kapoor, another prominent veteran. 

In Saawariya, Ranbir plays artist Raj, who meets a young woman with a past, Sakina (Sonam), in a chance encounter and they fall madly in love. Based on the short story White Nights by 19th century Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky, Saawariya (Beloved) recounts the passionate love affair over four successive nights. 

Will the audience be enchanted by the romance of Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor in Saawariya?

Its all-consuming love story aside, the film showcases sumptuous sets boosted by a haunting melody (soundtrack by Monty Sharma and Sameer) that are a trademark of Sanjay. The Hindi movie also has on its supporting line-up two of Bollywood's biggest names, Salman Khan and Rani Mukherjee. 

The debutants 

In a recent interview, the fresh-faced and bushy-browed Ranbir expresses wonder at how two young individuals – Sonam and him – are currently at the same point in life sharing similar hopes and fears. This Deepavali will be very different and exciting for the duo as they will be watching with bated breath how audiences worldwide react to their acting debut in a Sanjay Leela Bhansali feature. 

Ranbir Kapoor plays Raj, a dreamy artist.

The only order amidst the chaos is a giant poster of Saawariya that occupies pride of place in the middle of the room.  

It's a clear sign of the owner's preoccupation with his first major work. 

Sonam begins in jest: "I don't have as much to live up to as Ranbir. He has the whole Raj Kapoor banner to hold up." (Raj, the late famous film director, is Ranbir's grandfather.) 

Sonam Kapoor is shy Sakina, who's been through much.

Is it the kind of pressure that leads to sleepless nights? 

"No, we sleep a lot," says Sonam. And Ranbir goes: "That's going to sound terrible in print. You better rephrase it." But Sonam is too busy laughing to rephrase anything. 

As family friends who grew up together, the two are clearly at ease with each other. Ranbir is the voice of reason and calm while Sonam is quite the opposite – impulsive and emotional. Ranbir listens, Sonam talks. Ranbir thinks a thousand times before taking action, Sonam reacts without thinking. 

"Sonam is a drama queen, she's the modern-day Meena Kumari," grins Ranbir, striking a dramatic pose in reference to the legendary tragedy queen of Indian cinema. 

"How can you be so cool and collected?" asks Sonam ruefully. 

"Try thinking first before you speak, and you'll get there!" jokes Ranbir. "But it's okay. I like the honesty." 

Then remembering your presence there, the actor turns to you and says earnestly: "That's exactly how she's like – no pretences, when she's alone with you or with friends, with a hundred people or before the media." 

Back to more serious matters. How does he feel now that the shoot of Saawariya is over? "I feel like a father giving away his daughter in marriage," says Ranbir. Sonam giggles again.  

The kids aren't allowed to say much about their film. "Which is good, otherwise Sonam would narrate the entire script to you right now," says Ranbir. "Ask her about a book and she'll tell you the entire story. Then she'll move on to another book and narrate that story too...." 

What if Saawariya doesn't do well? 

Working with Ranbir and Sonam has energised Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Then Ranbir says: "It will do well." 

"We're young and optimistic. It will do well," Sonam replies. 

Despite the high expectations, the two are remarkably sanguine about their maiden effort. It's an attitude the up-and-coming actors will need to survive in the capricious world of showbiz. 

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is back. After his spectacular creations Khamoshi, Hum dil de chuke sanam, Devdas and Black, he returns with his fifth sensational venture, Saawariya. An expert at absorbing audiences with the story, he makes sure that the music too mesmerizes all. Mr. Bhansali always chooses themes close to peoples' hearts. With his protagonists usually in pain and circumstantial affliction, he asserts an emotional trip to viewers. The films are taken pretty seriously by women and they are often seen sobbing, while men hog the popcorn. But Sanjay Leela Bhansali is no less of a genius, who makes every film with an 'amazing' tag. He gets the soundtrack for every movie made before other production steps. That proves his creativity and meticulous efforts put in picturising every song. Undoubtedly, he is the best as far as musicals are concerned.

Another success story already here is that Saawariya is the first Hindi movie with the role of an international producer. Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group, the banner we see invariably in Hollywood movies, has collaborated with Sony Pictures for the movie. Sanjay Leela Bhansali's worldwide acclaim has brought him to this prestigious avenue. The FTII graduate has a tidy sum of national and international accolades till date.

Ranbir Kapoor, girls! The Kapoor legecy bestows their fourth generation to Bollywood. Son of Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh, Ranbir could soon achieve the next 'graceful' chocolate-boy image. We can't doubt his acting skills since it's in his blood, although for Saawariya it must've been a big challenge to play such a dramatic role.

Sonam Kapoor! A differrent Kapoor connection, Sonam is Anil Kapoor's daughter. She too has seen every bit of the industry, with relatives like Boney Kapoor and Sridevi, she knows most of the filmy duniya herself. The simple and sweet teen is also widely awaited on the screens as she has taken up her monumental romantic role in Saawariya.

The film also stars Rani Mukherjee, Salman Khan, Zohra Sehgal, Begum Para, and Achla Sachdev. It is based on a short story, 'White Nights' written by Fyodor Dostoevsky. The music is by Monty Sharma, a debutant director who had done the background score of Black and Devdas. He's shown his talent well, as the soundtrack already is a chart topper. More exciting is when these songs will be given another life on screen.

The movie promises dramatic characters, marvelous sceneries, a brilliant screenplay and moments of anguish & emotional turbulence. Never miss a good movie, and this is the one!

Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor are now considered to be the next star of Bollywood. These two newcomers are getting in to Bollywood through their first movie slated for release on the same 9 November. So, no doubt, there will have some hidden clash between the two newcomers. Even if not, media has created some hype over Deepika Padukone and Sanom Kapoor.

Deepika Padukone is coming with the mush awaited movie Om Shanti Om along with Shah Rukh Khan. On the other hand, Sonam Kapoor will get into Bollywood with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming movie Saawariya where she will be seen against another newcomer Ranbir Kapoor.

Sonam Kapoor