Wednesday, December 31, 2008

"Shyam Mathur Awarded Bhartendu Award"


New Delhi - Jaipur based known senior journalist Shyam Mathur’s book ‘Film Pparkarita Ke Vividh Aayam’ received first prize under Bhartendu Harishchand Book award.
The Ministry of I&B has announced the award in Delhi. Spotlighting the hearting life of film journalists and also brings the 90years of film industry into spotlight. Recently the book is published by Rajasthan Hindi literature academy. To promote fundamental writings on subjects and issues like film, advertising, radio, publications, this award function was started in 1983.
Every year 5 consolation prizes are also given except the first 3 prizes.Shaym Mathur is regularly writing articles on film and television. Known in National and international film festivals, Shyam Mathur’s first book “Amitabh Tujhe Salam ‘was also quit popular.

Out Sourced ~ An inside comedy of callcentres






Outsourced: Releasing on Jan 2
Starring: Josh Hamilton, Ayesha Dharker, Asif Basra, Matt Smith
Director: John Jeffcoat

SYNOPSIS
WEG Entertainment Pvt Ltd brings to India, Outsourced, an award-winning this Indie-comedy on call centres sees refreshing Ayesha Dharker and Josh Hamilton come together. Interestingly, the film has made waves globally, winning awards and lauds at the Bend Film Festival Audience Award, Best Picture 2007, Bollywood and Beyond Film Festival Audience Award 2007, Cinequest Film Festival Audience Award, Best Feature Film 2007, Dubai International Film Festival Official Selection 2006, Goa International Film Festival Official Selection 2006, Hardacre Film Festival Audience Award, Best Picture 2007, Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles Audience Award 2007, Mumbai International Film Festival Official Selection 2007, Palm Springs Film Festival Best of the Fest 2007, Palm Springs Film Festival John Schlesinger Award 2007, Red Bank International Film Festival Official Selection 2007, Seattle International Film Festival Golden Space Needle Award for Best Film 2007, South Asian Film Festival Official Selection 2007, South Asian Indian Film
Festivel Official Selection 2007, Toronto Film Festival Official Selection 2006, Vancouver International Film Festival Official Selection 2007. Now, Outsourced finally comes home. The story goes thus…. Todd Anderson (Josh Hamilton) spends his days managing a customer call center in Seattle until his job, along with
those of the entire office, are outsourced to India. Adding insult to injury, Todd must travel to India to train his new replacement. As he navigates through the chaos of Bombay and an office paralyzed by constant cultural misunderstandings, Todd yearns to return to the comforts of home. But it is through his team of quirky yet likable Indian call center workers, including his friendly and motivated replacement, Puro (Asif
Basra), and the charming, opinionated Asha (Ayesha Dharker), that Todd realizes that he too has a lot to learn—not only about India and America, but about himself. He soon discovers that being outsourced may be the best thing that ever happened to him.
"Outsourced" is a romantic comedy and Dharker plays the woman whose life veers of course with disgruntled Todd entering it. As Ayesha Dharker simply puts it, "Outsourced is a romance between two countries, not just two people." Director John Jeffcoat avers Dharker was a real trouper, turning in "a great performance under some very difficult circumstances, like excessive heat and lighting rigs falling upon her. I'd work with her
again in a heartbeat." says Jeffcoat. Touche! Interestingly, according to Variety, Ken Kwapis, of The Office, has reportedly been tapped by NBC to create a television pilot for a potential spinoff of Outsourced.

CAST DETAILS

Josh Hamilton (Todd Anderson)
A longtime stalwart of the New York theater scene, Josh Hamilton's film and television work includes Alive, Kicking and Screaming (just released on the Criterion Collection), The House of Yes, The Proprietor, On Line, Freak Talks About Sex, The F word, Absolutely Fabulous, Sex and the City, Urbania, Sorry Haters, Margaret, Neal Cassady, Tonight at Noon, Broken English, The Last New Yorker, and Diggers. Among his theater credits are last year's critically acclaimed revival of Hurlyburly, Proof on Broadway, Kenneth Lonergan's plays This is Our Youth and The Waverly Gallery, As Bees in Honey Drown, The Cider House Rules, The Violet Hour, Women and Wallacei, and Eric Bogoson's Suburbia. He most recently worked on Tom Stoppard's trilogy of plays The Coast of Utopia at Lincoln Center with Billy Crudup, Ethan Hawke and Martha Plimpton.

Ayesha Dharker (Asha)
In the international award-winning film, The Terrorist, Ayesha Dharker (Bombay Dreams, Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones) played the lead character Malli, a role that earned her a nomination for Best
Actress from the National Film Awards of India and the Cairo Film Festival award for Best Artistic Contribution by an Actress. She played the lead in Manika and appeared with Patrick Swayze in City of Joy. Her numerous television roles include the mini-series Arabian Nights and the acclaimed A Mouthful of Sky. She has also appeared in the Merchant-Ivory production The Mystic Masseur, as well as film and television adaptations of award-winning author Meera Syal's novels Life Isn't All Ha Ha Hee Hee and Anita and Me.

Asif Basra (Puro) Asif Basra is a film, television and theater actor. His performance in two of his more recent films, Anurag Kashyap's Black Friday and Rahul Dholakia's Parzania, received much critical acclaim. He appeared in Micheal O. Sajbeland's One Night With the King with veteran actors Omar Sharif and Peter O'Toole. Though his film performances have generated many a laudatory comment, Basra is also known for his theater performances; from playing a child with spinal bifida in Main Bhi Superman to Horatio in Hamlet to his much vaunted performance playing five different characters in Feroz Khan's production of Mahatma v/s Gandhi, a play considered as one of the most successful in Indian theater.

Matt Smith (Dave)
A playwright, an auctioneer, an educator; Matt Smith is a man who wears many hats. He founded Stark/Raving Theater with Edward Sampson in 1988, fashioning and presenting five plays, including the acclaimed Here and There. His film and TV credits include Nora Ephron's romantic comedy favorite Sleepless in Seattle and the early 90s dramatic comedy series Northern Exposure. Matt is currently a member of the Fine Arts faculty at Seattle University in Seattle, WA.

Oye! It's 'Desi Girl' Priyanka!


Oye! It's Friday! Welcomes the New Year with an action packed episode featuring Indian Cinema's leading lady, Priyanka Chopra. With 6 releases and 2 of the year's biggest hits, Priyanka and Farhan kick start the year with a light-hearted, fun show that reveals a whole new side to this superstar. Tune-in to Oye! It's Friday! on January 2nd at 10:00 p.m. and launch your new year with great conversations, great performances and a whole lot of laughs!

In this episode of Oye! It's Friday, Priyanka gets candid with her 'Don' director, revealing some interesting secrets and a rarely-revealed side to her personality. From PJs to hilarious anecdotes, Priyanka and Farhan have the studio audience in splits with their wacky antics. From her early childhood in India to studying in the US and from the bullying older sister to the no-nonsense teen, Priyanka shares some of her fun (and shocking!) stories. Proving to be a big sport, Priyanka takes up every challenge put forward by Farhan… from playing the role of a reserved TV serial bahu, to singing, playing the drums and even doing a few gags. All this with a big smile on her face!

The action doesn't end here… Oye! It's Friday! presents the talents of 2 young artists. Getting audiences (and Priyanka) on their feat is the young singer Salim with his performance of his chartbusters like 'Maa Da Ladla' and 'Mast Kalander'. The young and super talent prodigy from the Kapoor Khandan, Aadar Jain, displays his immense talent on the drums and receives a standing ovation from Priyanka, Farhan and the audience.

The performance by the duo of Vlado is jaw-dropping to say the least. With immense dexterity and skill, the duo pull of some gravity defying balancing acts that leaves everyone spellbound! See it to believe it!

Stay tuned-in to this and a lot more action on this year's fresh new episode of Oye It's Friday. Music, movies, masti, madness and much more… come together every Friday night in one hour of pure power-packed entertainment hosted by Farhan Akhtar, only on NDTV Imagines' Oye! It's Friday! on January 2nd at 10pm every Friday.

Q & A with Loveleen Tandon





LOVELEEN TANDAN - Co-Director & Casting Director of Slumdog Millionaire

    Q) You worked as Casting Director in Films like Monsoon Wedding, Vanity Fair, the Terminal, Brick Lane. Now Director Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire is in the line. How did you get into this film?

    A) I was approached by Tabrez Noorani, the line producer of SDM from LA, and he set up a meeting between me and the producer of SDM, Christian Colson for casting the film. They were familiar with my work and wanted me to get involved. I loved the script…it reminded me of the fantastic Salim –Javed characters from the 70's…and the fact that Danny Boyle had agreed to direct it, made it a very interesting prospect for me. I came on board within a day of reading the script.

    Q) Apart from spotting Freida Pinto & casting her in Slumdog Millionaire, what makes casting for this film special?

    A) It's the most unusual casting ever. I had the best time looking for three characters (Jamal, Salim and Latika) in three age groups…so 9 people play 3 parts and all with almost equal screen time. So you see three 6 year old Bombay slum kids grow into 12 year olds and then 18 year olds. We found Dev Patel, the eldest Jamal, in London. Freida Pinto and Madhur Mittal are the eldest versions of Latika and Salim who we found right here in Mumbai…and I'm really proud of their work in the film. And of the 9, two are real slum kids and most of the others, are first timers in film. Apart from these nine heroes of the script, I was thrilled to bring on board some of the most amazing talent from our industry – Anil Kapoor, Irrfan Khan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Saurabh Shukla and Ankur Vikal. All greats…. and they've made me look so good!

    Q)In the Previous films you worked as Casting Director. How did you get into Co-Directing in this Film?

    A) I've never looked at Casting as a "career", the reason why I don't do everything that comes my way…. I've always seen it as a movement towards directing my own films. Casting has allowed me to work with directors whose work I admire, and to learn the most vital element of filmmaking – working with actors. When I started casting Slumdog, I suggested to Danny and Simon Beaufoy, the writer of Slumdog, that it was important to do some of it in Hindi to bring the film alive (One third of the film is in Hindi). They asked me to pen the Hindi dialogues which I, of course, instantly agreed to do. And as we drew closer to the shoot date, Danny asked me to step in as the Co-Director. It was, and always will be, the honor of a lifetime for me to work alongside a visionary genius like Boyle.

    Q) How did you select the lead characters of the film "Slumdog Millionaire"? How was the experience?

    A) It was a phenomenal experience! I started casting the film in April 2007 and I think I must've been casting till the last day of shoot early this year – that's the number of characters in this film! But I have to say searching for the three key players in three different age groups, particularly at 6 and 12 years, was the most challenging part. They had to feel alike in so many ways but more than anything, in spirit.

    Q) How Indian is "Slumdog Millionaire"?

    A) For me, it's fully and totally Indian! It's set here, it's about our world and it feels "apna". I think a lot of it comes from the fact that Danny embraced the script in a complete way. He wanted to tell the story as an insider. And I think he has succeeded in a way that's inspiring to all of us in the film world who fear doing anything outside our familiar comfort zones.

    Q) How was working with Danny Boyle in "Slumdog Millionaire"?

A) Like I just said, working with Danny Boyle has been truly inspiring. His energy is infectious and brings out the best in everyone around him. I've had an amazing fortune of being able to learn from a master. I sometimes feel like I'm the off-screen "millionaire" to come out of Slumdog Millionaire – I feel so enriched from this experience!

Loveleen Tandon--98192 03163

Abu Malik-Sunidhi en-chanting experience


It was an en-chanting experience for composer-singer Abu Malik and singer Sunidhi Chauhan as they got together to create a melodious fare for Varun Khanna's Bad Luck Govind. "Director Varun knows his craft very well. He got the chanting nam-myoho-renge-kyo and wanted me to weave a song using the chanting. It was an interesting experience, as the words have deeper meaning." The mantra stands for the sublime supreme Law of the Universe besides the vibration of everything and anything in the Universe -- Energy.
When chanted, it is said that one immediately taps into Buddhahood, an enlightened state of mind, body, and spirit. Also, time without end... And the words are the Title of the Lotus Sutra. While Nam means Devotion (to the) MyoHo means Mystic Law (of the), Renge stands for Lotus Flower and Kyo is Sutra. Nam-Myho-Renge-Kyo, thus is the mirror to both the soul and the Universe. It explains how the entire Universe is interdependent and interconnected, and it's the Law of the Gods.
When a person chants Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo, he accepts to bring out the Universe from within and connect it to the Universe above. His vibrations are heard when he chants Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo, and it is
said that these chantings will protect and guide him through this lifetime and the next.
So, armed with the powerful mantra, Abu Malik set about making a beautiful song with lyricist Madan Pal lending a lyrical meaning and soul to his music.
"With Sunidhi lending her vocal chords, the song is just so perfect," gushes Abu Malik. Yours to check out the soul-stirrer. And regain that inner peace you longed for!

Eat Sweets & Go On a Diet ...says Sanjeev Kapoor


This New Year Go On a Diet and Still Eat Sweets

Says Celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor on the launch of new Natura Diet Sugar


Mumbai, 30th December 2008: Is your New Year resolution this year to cut down on calories? This year, make resolutions you can keep, sweets no more remain resistible as India's master chef Sanjeev Kapoor brings irresistible solutions for you. Now you can on a diet and still eat sweets without having any second thoughts, with Natura Diet Sugar in your favorite cakes, mithais and desserts!

Celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor today introduced the mantra of indulging in sweets and yet makes it healthy at a discussion on simple tips on how to keep your New Year resolution healthy, organized by Sugar Free Natura.

Speaking on the occasion Chef Sanjeev Kapoor said, "People always expect me to come up with new and innovative solutions for a healthy lifestyle; with Natura Diet Sugar you can add sweetness in your life, without adding the harmful calories of sugar. The most important part of it being that it's as simple as replacing one cup of sugar with one cup of Natura Diet Sugar!" In continuation to this, he further added that, "India is a diabetic capital of the world, with over 40 million cases in the country. We need to look at solutions which can let all diabetics and well as health and fitness conscious consumers enjoy the sweets and desserts without feeling guilty! What a better way to stay on diet, this coming New Year and yet enjoy sweets."

Mr. Ganesh Nayak, Executive Director, Zydus Cadila said, "As a market leader with over 80% market share in the sweetener market, we have always been setting new trends and looking at newer ways to help the health and wellness conscious customer lead a healthier lifestyle without having to make stifling choices. Sweets are an essential part of any celebration and this year one can ring in the new year resolution 'Meetha bhi, Diet Bhi' with Natura Diet Sugar which can be easily used in recipes to prepare sugar free desserts."

The Consumer Business of the Zydus Group

Zydus Cadila is a fully integrated, global healthcare provider, with strengths all along the pharmaceutical value chain. With a core competence in the field of healthcare, Zydus Cadila provides total healthcare solutions ranging from formulations, active pharmaceutical ingredients and animal healthcare products to cosmeceuticals.

The Consumer Business of the group aims at promoting the concept of 'healthy living' by offering healthier choices to the consumer and by helping meet evolving needs in dietetic/health foods and personal care. It aims to empower individuals to take increasing responsibility for one's health by adopting healthy dietary habits and lifestyles. The group markets products under two major groups – the Sugar FreeTM and the EverYuth range.

The overall market size of the sugar substitute category is around Rs. 70 crores, wherein Sugar Free is the leader in the market with about 80% market share.


Urmila Matondkar gave prizes to winners of SAMVEDNA Sports Festival






Urmila Matondkar came for a general cause

Urmila Matondkar came to cheer and to give prizes to all NGO kids.Samvedna Sports Festival was held at Powai for 4 days.Bhawani Shankar chairman of the NGO called children from different schools to participate in this festival.The festival started with skating competition and finished with body building competition.Urmila came at 8.30 pm for prize distribution.She told the guest and media that she is very happy to be associated with type of event .


IIFW's Masterclass a grand evening





Black & White brings alive the Unbelong magic with IIFW's Masterclass

Black & White, premium Scotch whisky brand from Diageo India, in association with Indian Independent Filmmakers Worldwide (IIFW), a global alliance of independent filmmakers, presented Masterclass, a one-on-one interaction between respected filmmakers, Sudhir Mishra and Mira Nair, at The Blue Frog. Sudhir Mishra had a tête-à-tête with Mira Nair on her vision and film making techniques, helping the audience understand what makes Mira and her films unique. Mira spoke extensively about her professional and personal journey as a director, while also discussing the stellar performances by various actors that she has worked with. The interview was followed by an interesting Q&A session between Mira Nair and the audience.
The event had film ethusiats like Ketan Mehta ,Deepa Sahi ,Rachna Shah,Pravin Dabbas,Kaizad Gustad,Sanjay Chhel ,Smitha Gondkar, Raj Zutshi ,Prashant Narayanen,Soumya Tandon,Jaanu Barua

The Black & White IIFW's Masterclass, will be held once every month at The Blue Frog and Telecast on NDTV Lumiere in the following month produced and directed by Tarun shani of XL Media . It is aimed to present an unforgettable and inspirational experience of witnessing a "Master" filmmakers share their lives, craft and thoughts with live audience full of film enthusiasts, filmmakers and students of cinema. IIFW is an association of filmmakers dedicated to promote, support and nurture the spirit of independent cinema by Indian filmmakers worldwide.

Asif Adil, Managing Director, Diageo India, "The 'Unbelong' platform is the essence of Black & White and was beautifully exemplified by this Masterclass property as it brings together and explores exemplary talents from the world of filmmaking all under one roof. Black & White has a distinct place in the consumer's mind and we would like to continue providing such novel platforms to retain this positioning". In the past Black & White has brought to India globally renowned artists such as the acclaimed jazz legends Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter, as well as 'The Mentalizer' and Gavin Hooper who provided mind-blowing performances with his psychic powers. Anoushka Shankar as well as Amaan and Ayaan Ali Khan have been part of Black & White concerts and with their music and personality have brought alive the 'Unbelong' spirit.

Black & White encourages you to drink responsibly

About Black & White-Black & White is a traditional blended Scotch whisky created by James Buchanan. It is the marriage of the key malts Dalwhinnie, Clynelish and Glendullan that gives the blend its distinctive taste. Smooth and mellow to the palate, this premium Scotch whisky is a global favorite among young adults.

About Diageo-Diageo is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wine and beer categories. These brands include: Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, and Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines.Diageo is a global company, trading in over 180 markets around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands and performance, visit us www.diageo.com

NDTV Lumiere is the first movement of its kind that aims to meet the long-existing need of film enthusiasts. It is focused on bringing the best of world cinema to India and making it available across multiple platforms such as a 24 hour TV Channel, theatrical releases, home video, on-ground events as well as on internet. With a range of titles handpicked from over 35 different countries, our movies reflect a wide range of cultures, and varied styles of film making. Through our multi-platform release approach,


--

Diana Hayden - Brand ambassador of Fact Miss Teen India Contest 2009 .





Tuesday, December 30, 2008

टुमारो का एटीस आफिसर "जांन रीगन"

सारंगा मनोरंजन के बनर तले बन रही फ़िल्म टुमारो में "जांन रीगन" एटीस आफिसर का रोल निभा रहे हैं। इस फ़िल्म के निर्देसक हैं अमज़द खान जिनकी निर्देसक के रूप में य पहली फ़िल्म है।

इस फ़िल्म में "जांन रीगन" के साथ विनय आपटे रवि काले महत्व पूर्ण भूमिका में हैं। फ़िल्म में विनय आपटे ने एटीस चीफ की महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई है तथा गाइका माली दवे ने एक आइटम सांग किया है। फ़िल्म में अनु साहनी और जाकिर हुसैन भी हैं। "जांन रीगन" ने इस फ़िल्म में काफी कड़ी मेहनत की है।

इससे पहले "जांन रीगन" अमजद खान के निर्देशन में "वेकप" नाम से एक शोर्ट फ़िल्म में मुख्य भूमिका निभा चुके हैं.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Cheif Justice Swatanter Kumar release a book.



*Cheif Justice Swatanter Kumar* released the book *Consumer Is King* written by *Rajyalakshmi Rao* who happens to be the member of National Dispute Consumer Commission. The event saw the kind presence of Justice Vgyani, Justice Shrikrishna Rao and Justice J.N. Patel .From right Justice Vagyani, Justice Shri Krishna , Rajyalakshmi Rao, Justice Swatanter Kumar, Justice J N Patel and Manish Arora.

Fall winter collection by URBAN 10


Mumbai 2008: This season Urban 10, the flagship brand of the United Retail Pvt. Ltd., has launched their exclusive fall winter collection for boys aged between 1 – 14 years. The range is highly diversified with a vivid array of color and fashion, to make style trends attainable to every youngster who wants to look cool and trendy. Their new collection of printed Sweaters and Sweatshirts for boys is perfectly positioned for this Season.

For those trendy boys, who want to take on the world with a puff of confidence and attitude, Urban 10 is just the place to be. The company has carefully scrutinized minutest of the features may it be style, design, texture or color. Keeping in mind the bold choice of kids wear today, color palate has been designed to perfection. The colors that have made a splash this season painting URBAN 10’s world are Blue, Black, Racing Red, True Navy and Orange.

The company proffers gamut of super trendy and comfortable range of outerwear which constitutes of trendy Denim Jackets, Sweatshirts, Jeans, etc. The company has something for everyone for every occasion. The collection is priced between Rs. 299 – Rs. 799. The pricing is conceptualized keeping in mind the motto of the company “Trendy Fashion at The Right Price”. Gear up for the best of this season’s collection by Urban 10.
Available at EBONY & MORE stores.

About Urban 10: URBAN 10 was established a year ago by United Retail Pvt. Ltd. a 200 Crore consortium with diversified Business Interests in Garment Exports, BPO, Real Estate & Food Retailing. The company has been involved in manufacturing and exports of women’s & children’s wear for last 35 years, supplying to most of the largest fashion retailers across the globe. With a manufacturing capacity of more than 20,000 garments a day both in India and offshore, the company continues to meet the demand of their customers and exceed their expectations.

Melodious Abu Malik's musical fare





25 years in Bollywood as a mega-show organizer and Abu Malik, after the international film American Blend, now comes to mainstream Bollywood with his foot-tapping melodious fare in the film Bad Luck Govind, all set to his the marquee on January 9.


Naturally, it was time for celebration. Abu Malik's studios as Andheri (W) it was. The entire team of the film including director Varun Khanna, producer Tarun Arora, actors Gaurav Kapur, Hrishitaa Bhatt, Vrajesh Hirjee, and a host of others joined Abu Malik and had enjoyed magical musical moments over a sumptuous biryani lunch.


Said Abu Malik, "Sometimes you are so busy with what brings grist to the mill at the moment, that you don't find time for your other creative pursuits. Varun and Tarun beloved in my music and wanted me to compose and sing for Bad Luck Govind. And once I started recording, the creative music director in me kept getting more and more charged. Now, I am looking forward to covering up for all the 25 years that I missed composing and singing for Bollywood. Bad Luck Govind is the beginning of a lot of good things t come from me as a composer-singer."

Talking of the story, Bad Luck Govind is the story of an obsessive, compulsive, down-on-his-luck, young man Govind (VJ-actor Gaurav Kapur) , who has somewhat of a mind-blowing disconnect with the higher powers of the universe. His luck is such that even cows stop producing milk when he walks by a tabela. Even fresh milk instantly curdles when poured into a cup of tea.


A hilarious national incident with news anchor Mamta (special appearance Archana Puran Singh) lands Govind in Mumbai from his native Delhi, where the stage is now set for Bad Luck Govind , when some madcap underworld "bhai" satta bookies (Govind Namdev, Parmeet Sethi, Vrajesh Hirjee, Lalit Mohan Tiwari and Ganesh Yadav) and a gorgeous nurse (Hrishitaa Bhatt), collide - as their collective kismat's and luck intertwine to explode as well implode in more ways than one can keep count.

What follows, is madness, mayhem and hyper drama as Govind learns to romance life and rediscover faith in the power of positive.

Produced by Mixed Blood Cinema, Artesian Media & Entertainment, Digiquest India Pvt Ltd and Varun Khanna Production Pvt. Ltd., Bad Luck Govind written and directed by Varun Khanna stars Gaurav Kapur, Hrishita Bhatt, Parmeet Sethi, Govind Namdeo, Vrajesh Hirjee, Zakir Hussain, Ganesh Yadav, Yogesh Joshi, Amit Mistry, Lalit Mohan Tiwari, Manoj Tiger, Archana Puran Singh among others. The music is by Abu Malik, lyrics by Madan Pal and the singers are Mika Singh, Kunal Ganjawala, Sunidhi Chauhan, Labh Jajua and Abu Malik himself.

Pugilist turns dancing star for Asha Bhosle!




When the world celebrated Christmas, director S Ramachandran was busy. Turning an Olympic bronze medallist Akhil Kumar into a dancing star and performer as the celebrated pugilist donned greasepaint as he faced the cameras for the first time in his debut music video opposite the petite Ankeeta Mukherjee for the music video Vaada from Asha Bhosle's new album Precious Platinum for Sa Re Ga Ma Music.

Akhil however says that he is not new to acting. "I have done a bit of acting while in school. I just remembered all those good days now as I acted with Ankeeta who is very spontaneous in her performance," says Akhil.

Ankeeta too was thrilled to have Akhil as her hero in the video after it was the much in the news boxer Vijender Singh who was billed to be her earlier hero. Vijender had pulled out of the video for personal reasons and this had led to him being replaced by Akhil.

The song has Akhil playing a boxer who is totally immersed in his work and is followed around like a little lamb by Ankeeta who wants his attention. Akhil had earlier promised her his heart and she finally gets it towards the end….

The video has been directed By S Ramachandran who has become an Asha Bhosle specialist of sorts by virtue of having directed the legend herself in four of her videos earlier in Asha and Friends with Sanjay Dutt, Urmila Matondkar, Brett Lee and the Zee Little Champs. This is Ramachandran's fifth video for an Asha Bhosle number though she does not feature in this video.

The video has been choreographed by Rajeev Dinkar who has till date choreographed over 400 music videos and is set to make his debut in Bhojpuri films as a hero.

The video was cinematographed by Mahendra Rayan at the picturesque Tulsi Vihar cottage.


Thursday, December 25, 2008

Turkey & pudding Festival at THIIAN DI !!!


Celebrate this Christmas with Thiian Di – for the courteous & Magical Experience


Thiian Di – The Authentic Chinese Restaurant & Bar is hosting a sumptuous Turkey & Pudding Festival this Christmas.

Welcome Drink – Melon Punch / Fresh Lime Water / Soda Iced Tea.

Soups – Cream of Asparagus / Tom Yum Kai

Salads – Lerb Kai / Sum Tom Malkor / Waldorf salad

Starters – Prawns wrapped in bacon / Egg Muscovite Rosemary Chicken / Homey Mustard Chicken/ Vegetable Salt n Pepper/ Veg Spring Rolls/ Wantons

Main Course – Broccoli & Pakchoy in Xo Sauce/ Shredded Potato in Hunan Style Turkey wit Cranberry Sauce / Prawns in Hoisin Sauce / Roast Lamb with Mint Sauce / Spare Ribs / Chicken in Hot Garlic / Rice / Noodles ( Veg- Nonveg)

Desserts - Plum Pudding with Brandy Sauce/ Melon in Ginger Wine Fresh Fruit Cake / Date Pancakes with Ice-cream.

So celebrate this Christmas with Thiian Di – for the courteous & Magical Experience

For Bookings - Please Contact: Thaiin Di Chinese Restaurant, 6th Floor, Krome Mall, Hadapsar, Tel – 2681 – 1706, 9049455900

THIIAN DI is the new name of Tiandi

PR Contact SWATI @ 9371033723

Mumbai's BIG 92.7 FM's presents 'Santa Ki Class'



India's No. 1 radio network with 44 stations has its Mumbai Station ring in this Christmas season with 'Santa ki Class', which invites celebrities and listeners to share interesting and unique gifting tips this festive season. The celebrations also saw Shibani Kashyup play the 'Big Santa' by sharing interesting festive notes with RJ Archana Jani.

'Santa Ki Class', spread across the day will see the RJ's of the Station interview listeners on what they would like to gift their loved ones this Christmas season. RJ Archana Jani will also host a class with the authorities of Mumbai on what they want to gift the City. Chal Kalti Maar will have RJ Rishi play the game with young and enthusiastic college students. RJ Rohit will also speak with listeners on out of the box gifting ideas this season on his show Mumbai Mach Mach.

The Station has put together a well tailored programming mix to excite listeners and seek high participation, while having loads of fun and wishing Mumbaikars a peaceful Christmas. All of this will be coupled with loads of gifts being given out on air. RJ's will also cover midnight and early morning masses and choirs from churches across the city, which is sure to offer listeners a complete treat.

Wishing the listeners a merry and peaceful Christmas, Neerja Dhillon, Station Director, BIG 92.7 FM- Mumbai said, "Our station has always been the true reflection of the City's vibe and it is no different this Christmas. Given the current mood of the City, we introduced the property 'Santa ki Class' to celebrate the spirit of the City. To all Mumbaikars, BIG 92.7 FM extends its best wishes for a peaceful Christmas."

About BIG 92.7 FM

BIG 92.7 FM, India's No. 1 FM Station and a Radio initiative from Adlabs Films Ltd., since its first station launch in September 2006, has expanded at a phenomenal pace creating history by launching its 45 station network in 18 months, including an FM station in Singapore. Having completed its goal of a pan India presence spanning across 45 cities, 1000 towns and 50,000 villages to reach 200 million Indians across India, the brand is now looking towards expanding to more cities within the country as well as overseas. The brand has taken FM as a medium of entertainment beyond the metros, to virgin markets, offering consumers and advertisers a new experience of this medium of entertainment. Within a short span of time with distinctive content and innovative promotion, BIG 92.7 FM has established leadership in the FM space and firmly laid the foundation for an exciting future ahead.

'Bad Luck Govind' Music Launch




Music launch of "Bad Luck Govind" .It casts Gaurav Kapoor, Hrishita Bhatt, Parmeet Sethi, Archana Puran Singh with music director Abu Malik and singer Sunidhi Chauhan.

Director & Producer - Varun Khanna in Black Shirt & blue Jeans.

The World percussionist

I am Malay Sen the World music percussionist .I play Tabla classical and solo,rhythmist of Western,pop,Gazal ,fusion music. I also play Arabian doumbak,African djambe, mouth percession, rhythm composer, bole recitation, conga, bongo, jaz, cyclo shaker, octopad,cajon,gong, fx,chick and mouth playing,duff ,ghatam,kanjira,talking drums,tringle,fx tones instruments,hand bell,chimes, and lots more percussions.I compose world beat,also composing background rhythm of cinema and serials,play back rhythm of songs and background rhythm of fashion show. My age is 22. If you think to use my music rhythms in concerts and recordings please call me on 9819915138 or mail me at gour_malay@rediffmail.com .

Save Sanjivini Concert in Dill Mill Gaya




'When the going gets tough the tough gets going', this popular adage has been adopted by the interns at Sanjeevani hospital. Yet another challenge poses itself in the life of the interns! Leaving no stones unturned to save Sanjeevani from the financial crunch, the interns have placed all their hopes on one last resort; 'The Save Sanjeevani Concert'. Through this concert, the interns intend to raise money so as to pay off the accrued debt of 24 lakhs through ticket sales, as incurred by the charitable patients for their continuing treatment.


Comprising of a series of 4 songs and dance sequences all the interns are geared up to put their best foot forward to save Sanjivani at any cost! However, the Concert is not going to be a cakewalk for the interns! A few minutes before the performance, Dr. Rahul gets a message about his father being seriously ill putting him in two minds about performing for the concert. There are also beautiful moments around the concert when Dr. Shubhankar makes an attempt to confess his love to Dr. Keerti. Meanwhile Dr. Abhimanyu and Dr. Riddhima have a tiff while rehearsing for the concert and Dr. Abhimanyu walks away in the last moment refusing to participate!!

Needless to say, the interns manage to put up a fabulous concert inspite of all the action, mishaps, injuries, trying moments happening backstage. With loads of Fun, masti and foot-tapping music, the concert will feature each of the interns in their trade mark style! Atul, whose dancing skills come as a surprise package performs with Anjali, Shubhankar with Keerti and Rahul with Muskaan on the song 'Jhoom Barabar Jhoom' and is widely appreciated by the audiences. An injured Dr. Armaan saves the day for the interns by pitching into the act in the last moment and leaves everyone breathless with his performance on 'Tumse Hi' with Nikita.

Keeping the entertainment level high, in the final song sequence all the interns in a group jive to the song "Chak de". The entire concert displays the solidarity between the interns and highlights the larger cause for which the concert has taken place.

Will Dr. Abhimanyu Modi come back to support the interns in their cause? Will the efforts of interns be fruitful and to save Sanjivani from the financial crunch?

Watch out for the unlimited fun & hungama from, December 24, at 8:30 pm only on Star One!

Dil Kabaddi-Synopsis

The Movie is quite enjoyable. This is basically a comedy based on the lives of two married couples and the numerous marital and extra-marital goings on that happen with these two couples.

The four leads are impressive. Soha Ali Khan has become matured into a little dynamo of an actress, good things come in small packages. Konkona, one of my favourite actresses, is as always wonderful. She has captured the essence of the character and her dialogue delivery and timing is top notch.
Rahul Bose is back to form with this one although he has done this style of acting before in Pyar ke side effects.
Irrfan Khan has gives a wonderfully natural performance that endears him to the audience although we may not condone his actions in the movie. His dialogue delivery and timing in certain scenes make you really laugh out loud. His performance is probably the one that stays with you after you leave the cinema.

There are a number of small but wonderful supporting performances in this movie as well but I have to mention one in particular : Mohit Chauhan. As they say good things come in small packages !!
Mohit Chauhan was last seen in Chak De in the striking role of ( Uttam.....) along with Sharukh Khan as his best buddy who pulls him back on his feet n gets him as the hockey team captain. Even though the film was swarmed by the numerous girls that was a fantastic performance by Mohit.This talented boy can be seen in the Bingo chips advertisement which has hit the screens lately and is very promising.
He is also working on some promising new projects such as Prince of thieves starring Vivek Obeori and Chai Chai garam starring Subiel Shetty.He has a lot of untapped potential. Something about him reminds one of the young Amir Khan!!

Kudos to the director, script writer and also to the dialogues writer since they managed to deliver a tight, taut film that does not flag at all after the interval.

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Katrina Kaif- The new ambassador of Nakshatra TVC






It's the star that controls the planets, and thereby, our destinies.And this was proved today at a star studded event which saw the launch of the new advertising campaign for Nakshatra. Katrina Kaif is the brand ambassador of Nakshtara and when a radiant beauty like Katrina and Nakshatra got together for the making of the new campaign, the end result was breathtaking.

In the new Nakshatra TVC we have the goddess of luck performing a cosmic ballet and controlling the cosmos. The latest Nakshatra film is conceptualized and created by Creativeland Asia.

The choice of Katrina as the Goddess of Luck was a no-brainer. Given the fact that she has been the lucky mascot of Bollywood, with almost all her films proving successful.

Speaking in the occasion, Mr. Mehul Choksi, Chairman & MD, Gitanjali Gems, "Katrina is the perfect representation of the young, trendy and fashionable woman that Nakshatra targets. Nakshatra is synonymous with trust and purity in a category that is fraught with questionable practices. It e

pitomizes the expression of love and affection in a women's life. And with the coming together of two of the biggest brands the end result in the form of a TVC was breathtaking"

"The film was quite a challenge considering that we had to deal with one of India's most prestigious brands Nakshatra , one of its brightest stars Katrina and a script that demanded the moon" said Sajan Raj Kurup, Chairman & Chief Creative Officer, Creativeland Asia Network.

Creativeland Asia and Crocodile films put up one of the largest Chroma sets in India and put up a creative team from four different countries (India, UK, Malaysia & Japan) to execute the film.

The mega production that were involved in the making of the TVC were Creative Direction & Film Production - India, VFX Generation - Malaysia, CG Compositor - Japan, Music composer – London.

The creative team that was responsible for putting such a brilliant piece of creativity from Creativeland: Anu Joseph, Vikram Gaikwad, Neil Flory, Sajiv Kurup, Narayan Shi, Bose, Andrew Mckay, Chia, Ng, Moon Chong, Tresa, Sajan Raj Kurup

About Gitanjali Gems & Jewellery:

Gitanjali Gems Limited, a DTC sightholder, is one of the largest integrated diamond and jewellery manufacturers and retailers in India. Its operations include sourcing of rough diamonds from primary and secondary source suppliers in the international market, cutting and polishing the rough diamonds for export to its international markets, and the sale of diamond and other jewellery through GGL's retail operations in India, as well as in international markets.

The company exports its cut and polished diamonds, and its diamond and other jewellery products to various international markets in Europe, including to Antwerp and Italy, the United States, the Middle East, as well as to markets in Asia, including Japan, China, Hong Kong and Thailand. GGL also sells its branded diamond and other jewellery products under brands, such as Nakshatra, Asmi, Gili, D'Damas, Sangini, Collection G, Gold Expressions and Vivaha Gold, in India through its network of approximately 840 outlets. The Gitanjali Group has extensive knowledge and experience with US product ranges for over two decades.

Gitanjali Gems Limited is also playing a key role in adding capabilities to the Jewellery industry in India by building two SEZs, including one across 200 acres in Hyderabad, one of the largest of its kind.

About Nakshatra

Launched in 2000 Nakshatra reached the iconic stage in just three years. The Nakshatra Collection has unique floral designs with multiple diamonds encircling a single large diamond to signify the constellation effect. Special Packaging and its own guarantee certificate promising the purity and sparkle of Diamond. Its available in three collections Nakshatra collection, Eternity Collection & Solitaire Collection. The brand is available in 18 Kt BIS Hallmarked Gold.

It's offered in superior quality diamonds of 4 Different Grades certified by the most reputed International Gemmological Institute.

Nakshatra has emerged, as one of India's leading brand in Diamond Jewellery Segment. The continued success of Nakshatra is a result of its constant metamorphosis. In its first year, Nakshatra was awarded the Effie (Silver) in 2001 and in the following year the Effie (Bronze). The Effie is the most significant award in advertising that recognizes effectiveness and honors tangible results. In 2003, the Nakshatra Utsav was awarded the Best Trade Promotions award at the McDowell's Signature All India Promo Awards. In 2007 Nakshatra was awarded the Retail Jeweller Award for the best TV campaign of the year. The in-house designing team at Nakshatra is extremely innovative and comes up with fresh ideas and concepts which have received recognition at the JCK- New Delhi Gold Souk design award 2006, the IIGJ Awards 2007 and the Tahitian Pearl Awards 2005 and 2007.

Nakshatra is synonymous with trust and purity in a category that is fraught with questionable practices. It epitomizes the expression of love and affection in women's life. Nakshtra has established itself as an ethical player in the market as it comes with its certificates of authenticity and assuring transparency in the buying decision of the consumers.Overt Nakshatra brand values include beauty, radiance, class, elegance and quality. Amongst the symbolic values are feminity, celestial splendour and mysteryThe Nakshatra Collection has unique floral designs with multiple diamonds encircling a single large diamond to signify the constellation effect Special Packaging and its own guarantee certificate promising the purity and sparkle of Diamond.