I'm searching for a Bengali man to marry: Vidya Balan

Bollywood beauty Vidya Balan and leading Bengali band 'Chandrabindoo' were seen sharing the platform together in a city hotel on Friday as they shared their experiences of working together for a new television commercial of hair oil brand Nihar Naturals.

"Working in this commercial for Nihar Natturals was a wonderful experience as the song captured the brand's message to the Bengali woman who are always very intelligent and progressive thinking," Balan said.

"Chandrabindoo's catchy tune and lyrics, the fresh and engaging approach of the TV commercial is sure to strike a chord with all the women of Bengal," Balan said.

The actor said that she feels a strong bond for Kolkata and searches for excuses to visit the city.

"I am deeply associated with Bengal. I think I hardly know anybody having so much touch with Bengal as I do," she said.

Expanding her love for Bengal, she said humorous tone: "I am always searching for a Bengali man to settle down with. See if I can get him," she said.

It was absolutely a different experience for the city to see the gorgeous actor reciting popular Bengali rhymes like: "Ramgorurer chana na haste tader mana".

Speaking about her upcoming movie named 'Kahaani', Balan said: "The film has been directed by Sujoy da (Sujoy Ghosh) and the entire film has been shot in Kolkata."

"This has been five years after which I had a full-fledged shooting in Kolkata," she informed.

Balan said that she is willing to work in a Bengali movie with ace Bengali director Rituparno Ghosh.

"Every year we feel we should work together, but it never realizes," she said.

Speaking about her upcoming film on actor Silk Smitha, Balan said: "You won't be able to imagine me in that role! But that is a challenge for an actor."

"I have not started preparing for the film, but I will watch her films once I start preparing for the film," she said.

Vidya Balan will be seen featuring along with Chandrabindoo in the advertisement where the band will be seen singing a new track 'Jaani Naa'.

Source: santabanta.com

Bollywood hotties and their Dirty Dancing

Be it 1950s or 2011, item songs have always been seen as the X-Factor of Hindi films. Sreya Basu finds out what makes the hip-shackers a guaranteed success at the Box Office

Back in 1960s Helen’s name on film posters used to be magnified and got more space than the heroine’s. And a dance number by Bindu or Aruna Irani was like an insurance policy for the film’s success.

The scene remains unchanged even today where Salman Khan needs a Munni Badnaam to garnish his Dabangg. Or, Sheila Ki Jawaani saves Farah Khan from being doomed by an otherwise flop Tees Maar Khan.

No matter how much film-scholars scrowl or criticize item numbers, Hindi films are unimaginable without the taadka of hip-swivelling chartbusters.

Talking about item numbers, how can we forget the ‘hottie ready to go naughty’ attitude of item girls!

Remember Nadira looking into Raj Kapoor’s eyes and singing Mudh Mudh Ke Na Dekh in Shree 420, or Helen stripping off her red gown and running to her on-screen lover in Piya Tu (Caravan), or a Bindu flaunting her yellow feathery attire before Ajit and Amitabh Bachchan and swaying to Dil Jalon Ka in Zanjeer?

While Nadira was a seductress, Helen was effortless…she was a born item girl. She had class and hence even her skimpy costumes never looked vulgar on-screen…but there was oodles of sex appeal for sure.

And whoever said you need a Size Zero figure to enter a man’s fantasy should watch out for Bindu. Despite her typical Punjabi curvaceous figure, she ruled the ‘60s and ‘70’s and how powerfully!

Sridevi was nicknamed Hawa Hawaii…thanks to her fruity item song in Mr India; Madhuri Dikshit too became the Dhak Dhak girl for her sensuous number from Beta.

“Malaika Arora was more popular as the Chaiyan Chaiyan (Dil Se) for her item number on a moving train until Munni happened. Now even a kid knows her more as Munni than Malaika,” says costume designer Ashley Rebello.

Not to forget, Rakhi Sawant owes her so-called stardom to item songs like Dekhta Hai Tu Kya and Bichua (other than her publicity stunts).

While Rekha matured from Pyaar Do Pyaar Lo (Jaanbaaz) to Kaisi Paheli (Parineeta), known for playing cerebral roles, Shabana Azmi reported danced away all night to Munni Badnaam on her 60th birthday party.

No matter how much butter item girls add, it’s the music that is the hing of a particular number.

“A film has a number of songs…romantic, tragic, soft, loud. But the item song has to be a fun number. It must have the capacity to make people jump off their seats at theatres, blow whistles and do all sorts of mad things,” says music composer Anu Malik.

And by fun, we need not mean only comedy…be it AR Rahman’s Mayya Mayya (from Guru) or Vishal Bharadwaj’s raunchy Beedi (from Omkara)…the main criteria is to make sure a saint turns Mithun Chakraborty (oops…read, disco dancer).

But then, fun songs need lyrics of equal stature. Wordings for an item number has to be wicked…something like Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai or Pyaar Tera Dilli Ki Shardi or Main Zandu Balm Huyi Darling Tere Liye.

“I prefer lyrics that are subtly cheap as opposed to downright cheap. For item songs it’s imperative to get words that one has never heard of. Like I hit on Chamma Chamma for China Gate,” says Anu Malik.

However, it’s singers who make the songs come alive. While Asha Bhosle was brilliant with the Ahh..ahh..ahh background in Piya Tu, Sunidhi Chauhan’s high pitches are essential for songs like Sheila Ki Jawaani or Chaalia (from Tashan). Or we need Rekha Bharadwaj’s earthy flavours to spice up Namak Ishq Ka.

“I am known for soulful numbers. But in Namak Ishq, I brought out a little naughtiness…a little flirtatious quality is needed for item songs,” says Bharadwaj.

And if singers give life to a song, dance moves make audiences go gob-smacked. Who thought Miss Prim and Proper Aishwarya Rai will turn on the heat with her Kajra Re!

Be it Yeh Mera Dil (Don), or Mehbooba (Sholey) or Ek Do Teen (Tezaab) or Mayya Mayya (Guru)…the hip movements, suggestive gestures, seducing looks, turns and twists of waist drive the masses wild.

And then of course, costumes add zing to item numbers.

“Costumes should be sensuous and sexy, rather than out and out cheesy,” says Ashley Rebello.

“I went for a complete gaonti look for Munni…flower-printed skirts, tights and jewel-studded blouse. Since Malaika’s entire torso needed to be exposed, I came up with chains that were attached beneath her blouse to the waistband of her skirt,” says Rebello.

Last, but not the least, an item song is incomplete without a complimentary backdrop.

The Babuji zara dheere chalo number won’t have been a whip-crack hit unless Yana Gupta made and entry riding on a buffalo.

The effect of Jhumma Chumma song would have been halved if Kimi Katkar won’t have been surrounded by mill-workers banging their enamel mugs in chorus.

Having said that, as Anu Malik once commented on the sets of Indian Idol-Romantic is nice, but item numbers are and will continue to be the spice of Hindi films. 

Source : santabanta.com

Deepika sizzles in Dum Maro Dum Item Track

Deepika Padukone shoots for Dum Maro Dum remix video, she even flaunts off a new tattoo

Deepika Padukone will sizzle the screen for Rohan Sippy's Dum Maro Dum. She recently shot for a remix of the title track that has her flaunting a tattoo of a cobra on her torso.

The song has racy lyrics and is touted to be one of the biggest attractions of the film. Reveals a source, "The song is explosive and bold, with really unimaginable lyrics.

The theme of the track has several references to sex and drugs. Initially, Deepika was hesitant given the nature of the lyrics and the inherent innuendo.

But after some convincing and seeing the creative visuals for the song she decided to make sure it looked super hot.

Part of the preparation included getting a tattoo with the words 'Dum Maro Dum' and the image of a King Cobra."

Pritam remixed the track, Bosco choreographed the number.

Lyrics of the song

Hey..kya phir dekh raha hai
Aaj aankhen sek raha hai kal haath sekega
Aaj dheel chod raha hai kal khud hi tokega
Aaj mere liye chair kheech raha hai kal meri skirt kheechega
Kheechega ki nahi ?

Source: Mid-day.com

Kareena Kapoor gets food poison

It seems that the Kapoor girl –Kareena is facing a difficult time. The buzz was doing the rounds that Kareena was feeling unwell on the sets of her latest venture Bodyguard. Bebo had a bout of food poisoning. Kareena was shooting in Pune when she suddenly started feeling unwell. Kareena had to take bed rest for her condition and the shooting had to be halted.

Kareena is paired opposite to Salman Khan in the movie Bodyguard. The film is made on the lines of a Malayalam film which bears the same name.

The film is by Siddique while Salman Khan’s brother- in- law Atul Agnihotri and his wife Alvira Agnihotri are the producers of the film. Pritam Chakraborty has been roped in for the music in the film. In this film Salman dons a different look altogether.

It will be a far cry from what he has done in his blockbuster hit Dabbang.

Kareena will be essaying the role of a don’s daughter who is a college goer. Kareena also sports a different look in the film as she goes traditional for the film. Kareena wears a lot of Pakistani kurtas with oxidized jewellery.

Designer Manish Malhotra is trying to get Karenna’s look in the film right. Manish has even scouted for accessories in Pune, Delhi and Mumbai. Manish feels that Kareena will be a trendsetter with her ethnic look in the film.

News are doing the rounds that the makers plan to release Bodyguard on August 27.However with Bebo’s condition the production of the movie will be delayed

Source : Santabanta

Check out Bollywood's Five Most Fashionable men

Bollywood has some of the most fashionable stars who look dashing at almost all events or public appearance that they make. Over the years, there has been a certain brigade of male stars in B Town that have carved a niche for themselves in the world of fashion and style.

Many stars could be categorized in the list of the most fashionable hunks in tinsel town, however to pick the best five amongst them is certainly quite an uphill task.

Thus just going by a random selection there are these top five that take the cake in the world of high fashion and style.

Shahrukh Khan, this man has it all. The style, the elegance and the attitude to carry off any high fashion couture at any given point of time. His confidence adds more zing to his personality and at most events this star is seen suited and booted which dies call for his being on top of the list.

Not far behind is Salman Khan. This hunk has of course oodles of style and his shirtless stance notwithstanding, Salman Khan is one deadly Khan who looks all prim and proper in his great tuxedos and even while in casuals his penchant for designer clothes just beats any high world fashion male right to the hilt.

Saif Ali Khan is yet another stylish man in B Town who can carry off just about any look with a cool stance. This cool dude has the look and the attitude of an alpha male which adds a lot of class and panache to his personality which is quite a hit with all his female fan following.

Abhishek Bachchan, this is one actor in Bollywood who can give quite a tough competition to some of the stalwarts in the industry with his killer looks. However, his style and sense of dressing is always the center of attention as often he is expected to dress well due to his very stylish dad Big B.

But so to speak, Abhishek Bachchan has indeed got the perfect penchant for carrying himself with great attitude and aplomb combined with his ultra fashionable choice of clothes at events he does have the right to be on top of the most fashionable males in tinsel town.

Akshay Kumar is one star who has changed over the years. His casual sense of dressing earlier has now been replaced by some very classy designer wear which has added a lot of charisma and raw appeal to his deadly male image. Akshay Kumar is certainly one of the most stylish male stars in Bollywood today.


Source: Santabanta

Mahesh calls Lara a serial kisser

'Koffee with Karan' has never been frothier than it was on the episode which had the sensational Lara Dutta and her fiancée the tennis ace Mahesh Bhupati.

The hot duo certainly rocked on the show with their great charisma and a bonding that certainly had to be seen to be believed.

Despite the two having completely different backgrounds as far as their careers are concerned, there was not an iota of discomfort between the two as they happily chatted and discussed almost every aspect of the relationship with the very considerate KJO who tried to catch every word the two were saying (even to each other) with utmost interest.

The best part was when Mahesh said that he jokingly called Lara a serial kisser on screen as according to him she had done quite a few of those mushy scenes on screen.

Lara was however quick to point out that this was completely uncalled for as it was Emraan Hashmi who was the title holder in that aspect and not her, moreover she quickly added that such on screen kisses were nothing but as cold as ever-or something to that effect.

On the other hand, Lara also pointed out that when she had first time gone to see Mahesh actually play on international turf, she had sat right on top of the sitting arena thinking that no one could spot her.

But when the match was over she was asked by Mahesh that she had missed an important moment in the match as she had gone to the rest room- this shocked the daylights out of Lara and thus, now whenever she accompanies him for such matches, she dares not to even shift her position on the chair! Phew!

Well, apart from all that the rapid fire round was quite a bombshell and both did do well but it was the first time guest Mahesh Bhupati who won the gift hamper!

Well, so much for the cute pair who are expected to tie the knot in February this year.


Source: Santabanta

Lovebirds Priyanka and Shahid bond in Durban

Lovebirds Priyanka Chopra and Shahid Kapoor were seen flirting with each other while in Durban, South Africa

Priyanka Chopra and Shahid Kapur performed at Durban on Sunday night.


The two were seen bonding majorly with each other at a special concert to mark the 150th occasion of Indians coming to South Africa. Shah Rukh, Anil Kapoor and Malaika Arora Khan were also present.



After the event got over, Shahid and PC were spotted enjoying coffee at a local joint. A source reveals, "Going to Durban was like a mini vacation for them.

They got a chance to spend time with each other and also get away from work."

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

Kareena and Rani to play sex workers in Kamathipura

We all identify Bollywood actor Aamir Khan with the perfectionist tag, which he very religiously maintains in his professional life. And it is this perfectionism that it is getting reflected in his forthcoming movie with director Reema Kagti.

According to reports in the media, the upcoming Bollywood film has already achieved a casting coup of sorts with the presence of stars like Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor and it is now being said that Aamir Khan is leaving no stone unturned to assure that his film remains very close to real life.

Particular shots of the Reema Kagti venture may be shot in a red light area on the insistence of Aamir Khan.

It is being said that one of the leading ladies in the film will play the role of a sex worker and it is for this purpose that Aamir Khan wants the filming of the scenes involving the sex worker to be completed at the red light area of Kamathipura, a fact which is not going down well with director Reema Kagti and producers Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar.

Media reports suggest that the crew of the upcoming Aamir – Rani – Kareena starrer are busy in trying to convince Aamir Khan that realism is always not good, because their filming in a brothel area may land the lead actresses in danger.

Whether Mr. perfectionist Aamir Khan will be convinced or not is a matter that we will get to know later. The audience is nevertheless eagerly waiting for a release that boasts of such great actors.


Source: Santabanta

95-year-old MF Husain's new muse: Anushka Sharma

95-year-old has seen her latest movie 8 times at last count... Interestingly, he doesn't need glasses to watch her!

After Madhuri Dixit, Tabu and Amrita Rao, M F Husain has found a new muse in Anushka Sharma.

At last count, the celebrated artist had seen her film Band Baaja Baaraat eight times and was looking forward to several more repeat viewings.

The 95-year-old finds the movie fascinating. Husain who now lives in Doha in Qatar and travels to Dubai often has been catching up on Maneesh Sharma's movie with his family and close friends.

And interestingly, when he watches the flick, he does not put on his spectacles. He has been claiming that ever since he saw Anushka, his vision has improved!

On New Year's Day, Husain watched the film with his close pal, Mumbai-based businessman Munna Javeri, who was visitng him in Dubai.

"In the cinema hall I was shocked to seen him remove his glasses, " says Javeri. "He knew all the dialogues and he viewed the film like a painting filled with colours. If only he had a brush in hand"

My take

Speaking from Dubai, Husain says, "It's still running to packed halls in its fourth week. Anushka was okay in the Shah Rukh starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, but in Band Baaja Baaraat she has proved what an intelligent actor she is.

She knows what subtle acting is all about. Even Ranveer Singh is good."

He feels the movie has a crisp, well-written script and the second half springs a twist. "It is a simple subject without any complications. This is what leading filmmakers must learn who unnecessarily complicate their movies."

Previoulsy he was fascinated by Hum Aapke Hain Kaun and Vivaah which had marriage as their themes. And so does Band Baaja Baraat. "It's not that because they are all wedding related. It is because they celebrate life and colours which I cherish, " adds Husain.

He plans to see the movie as many times till it runs there. And next time when Anushka is in Dubai or Doha, she is sure to have a portrait of hers presented by the celebrated artist!

FACT: M F Husain has watched the Madhuri Dixit-starrer Hum Aapke Hain Koun 73 times and Amrita Rao-starrer Vivaah 20 times.

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com/Santabanta

Lara and Mahesh Bhupathi wed on Feb 19, Its Officially Declared

It is final for now that India's ace tennis star Mahesh Bhupathi is getting married with Lara Dutta in a plush hotel in Goa on Feb 19.

Bhupathi, who is now here, recently divorced Shweta Jaishankar, to resume his second innings in conjugal life, media reports said on Thursday.

Both Lara and Mahesh love Goa and they have decided to spend their holidays there to make the wedding memorable.

Earlier, Lara was in serious relationships, first with Kelly Dorje and then with Dino Morea.

But both did not work out, the reports said.

At 32, Bipasha Basu goes topless

Gorgeous Bong diva of Bollywood, Bipasha Basu is surely having a super Friday as she turns a year older.

The B-town beauty turns 32 on Friday with a promise to gift more beautiful films to her fans.

"I celebrate my birthday fr a week! Starting now! Thank god fr this day(7th jan) when I was born!I love my life! Thank u all fr ur sweet wishes!," she tweeted to her fans.

Bipasha was a popular model before she entered films.

She was the winner of the Ford's Godrej Cinthol Supermodel contest in 1996.

After winning the contest, Basu also was flown to New York by the Ford Company, where she had a successful modelling career at the age of 17.

Bips has also worked in a Telegu movie named 'Takkari Donga' in the early years of her career, before making it big in Bollywood.

In 2005 and 2007, UK magazine Eastern Eye named Basu the "Sexiest Woman in Asia".

Bipasha blows her top off

The hottie went topless for the cover of this month's Maxim.

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

Kareena-Saif stay together in 300 year old Swiss chalet

The eco-friendly couple will be staying in a 300-year-old chalet that runs on solar energy

Kareena Kapoor loves being eco-friendly. She left last night for Switzerland on a 10-day trip with beau Saif Ali Khan.

The couple will be staying at a chalet-hut owned by the Gstaad Palace which runs on solar energy.

Says a source, "Bebo and Saif believe in preserving the eco-system in their own way. Last year, she had promoted eco-friendly handbags. Every year, they re-cycle their fir trees during Christmas.

This year, Kareena and Saif will be staying for a few days at the Gstaad Palace in Switzerland and then shift to a wooden hut (the Walig Hut) built like a small 18th century chalet at 5000 feet above sea level.

The 300-year old hut has been carefully restored with basic plumbing and solar-powered electric lighting. Saif loves skiing, so every year the couple have been spending their New Year's on the Swiss Alps."

The chalet-hut is very expensive costing over £1, 000 per night for two adults. This includes a sumptuous three-course meal with wine and champagne.

The chalet hut where Saif and Kareena will be staying

The hut's back-to-nature experience is an attraction to people who normally live their lives in comfort.

The couple will initially spend a few days at the Tower Suite in the Gstaad Palace. "The Gstaad Palace offers a breathtaking view of the majestic Swiss Alps and is one of Saif's favorite hotels.

A wide variety of activities such as golf, heli-skiing, hot-air-ballooning et al are available near the hotel."

About Gstaad Palace
Built in 1913, the Gstaad Palace is set on a hill overlooking the beautiful town it is named after. The tastefully decorated 104 rooms include 29 junior suites, and the luxurious and sophisticated three-bedroom Penthouse Suite. The Palace offers gourmet dining in five different restaurants, live entertainment in two bars, and dancing at the famous GreenGo nightclub.

Papa time

Before leaving for Switzerland, Kareena took an entire day off from work and spent it with her dad Randhir Kapoor. A source close to the actress says, "Kareena has been constantly shooting for her films and ads and hardly had any time to spend with her father. Incidentally, he too was holidaying in the USA. They met up for lunch yesterday and spent the whole day together catching up."

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

33 on January 1: Vidya Balan stays home on birthday

Vidya Balan spends her 33rd birthday with her parents

Vidya Balan turns 33 on January 1. The actress plans on bringing in her birthday and the new year at her parents' place in Khar.

Initially, she was planning to spend the special day with friends, but given the fact that she's been on the road promoting No One Killed Jessica for the last few weeks, Balan wants to be with her mom and dad.

A source close to Vidya says, "She's been in and out of Mumbai for the last six months. Earlier she was shooting for Sujoy Ghosh's Kahaani for almost two months.

After that she got into the promotion of Jessica travelling to almost every major city. Her schedule hasn't given her any chance to spend time with her parents."

Since her birthday and New Year fall on the same day, Vidya has a double reason to celebrate.

Despite buying a new apartment in Khar, the actress wasn't able to renovate the place or spend time in it. Her New Year resolution is to buy some antique furniture and do up her place.

Every year, Vidya prefers to keep her birthday a low-key affair. Rather than go out with friends, she enjoys spending quality time with her parents. "This year will be no different.

She will bring in her birthday and the new year at her parents' house. Since she doesn't believe in cutting a cake, her mom plans to prepare a sweet dish on the occasion."

After the release of No One Killed Jessica, Vidya plans to start preparing for her next film Balaji's Dirty Pictures based on the life of Silk Smitha.

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com / Santabanta

When Aishwarya was left with no clothes to wear

What happens when one of the most sought after celebrities in India loses her bags while travelling? It is natural that her staff and the airport authorities also become part of the panic.

That is exactly what happened when Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, numero uno heroine in Bollywood and the most beautiful woman on this planet, lost her personal belongings while travelling from New Delhi to Chennai.

According to reports in the media, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was at a loss after it was informed that her bags, which she had been carrying during her travel from the capital city to Chennai, could not be located! It was the airlines' mistake and they admitted it too, but how could that be of any help to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan who was left with no clothes to wear for the event that she was scheduled to attend in Chennai!

The true professional that she is, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan did not lose her cool, and instead tried to reason the best possible way out of this mess. Well, she was dressed in a track suit during her journey and the immediate idea that came to the Bachchan bahu was to wear the same track suit for the promotional event that she was to attend!

Though we are sure that her fans would not mind, not many went along with her idea as a track suit was not what they wanted the most beautiful woman on this earth to be seen in in public.

Therefore it was left to her manager and the organizers of the Chennai event to shop for the proper clothes and accessories for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Last heard, her staff managed fine in hunting for the new ensemble in which Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made her public appearance.

And her fans in Chennai could not help going gaga over the mesmerizing beauty of the lady. Little did they know what Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had to go through to get that look!

Source: santabanta

Who's the hottest in Sari: Priyanka, Bipasha or Vidya?

Bollywood actresses and their various style mantras are always in big focus whether it is their western outfits or otherwise. The Indian traditional outfits have always been something which has been under the scanner as soon as the B town actresses wear it. However, no other garment has made such an impact such as the sari.

The sari is the most popular garment in the traditional Indian context of fashion. This attire has undergone quite a change in the way it used to be draped around a woman.

The Bollywood top female stars who look simply great in this six yard cloth are of course many. But the ones who truly look stunning are Priyanka Chopra, Bipasha Basu, Vidya Balan, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone and Shilpa Shetty.

Who can forget Priyanka Chopra in the Desi Girl number from the flick Dostana, , looking piping hot ? Or Bipasha Basu creating a storm in her beautiful sari at the IIFA Awards?

Even Deepika Padukone at the Cannes film festival in an exquisite sari was the talk of the nation, while Kat is well known for her wet sari look in most of her films. Vidya Balan makes it a point to look as cool as ever in sari at most formal events and ditto Shipla Shetty, who is quite often spotted in this attire at public events that almost start the nation’s heart beating a tad bit faster.

Well, with most of our Bollywood stars opting for this Indian attire to look their best it seems like the fans of these stars just can’t get enough of them. Each time a star appears in a designer sari-it becomes a rage with almost every one wanting the same look.

The sari has traveled a long way from being a modest garment to being transformed into the most fashionable garment from the Indian attire range. Now with all these beauties mentioned above looking astoundingly smashing in the sari it’s a tough job to pick who the best one is. What do you think?



Source : Santabanta

Vidya Balan in asexual clothes

Marriage may or may not figure in her five-year plans but Vidya Balan is not ready to give up acting for "anything or anyone" and feels life has been "good" ever since she turned 30.

"Acting is a part of who I am. I don't think I will remotely give it up for anything or anyone, " the 32-year-old actor told in an exclusive chat in the capital.

"But having said that, if it comes naturally to me and I do feel like taking it easy at some point of time, maybe I will. But that shouldn't be a pre-condition to get into any relationship, " she added diplomatically.

Vidya, who will soon be seen in "No One Killed Jessica" based on the Jessica Lall murder case, says she is glad women are not giving up their careers just for their personal lives any more.

"I think today women continue to work at every age. It's fantastic! And it is happening in every profession. I met a girl at a store who got back to work within just two months of delivering a child - such is the dedication.

"But, yes, in our profession (acting), in the earlier days, the moment you got married, you ceased to be an object of desire, which is why a lot of actresses retired. Today, no longer! I guess that's also got to do a lot with the fact and attitude that today if someone is with someone, it doesn't stop you from desiring them!" she said and broke into a naughty laugh.

The critically acclaimed actress, who featured in films like "Parineeta", "Ishqiya", "Guru" and "Paa", is on a high these days. Neither her performances, nor her dressing sense are being criticised - and she admits she has started being very careful and fussy.

"Over a period of time, I think rightfully so, I have found the courage to do only what I want to do. I will not get pressurised to do anything that I don't want to do, even if it is a right film, or maybe it's the kind of film that one should be doing.

"It has to challenge me and it has to excite me. It can be an extremely simple film, it could be a mad role, it could be intense...it could be anything across the spectrum...but I have to feel excited, " she said.

That's also her mantra when it comes to dressing up - especially since she became the favourite child of India's fashion police. Now she often sports designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee's elegant saris and steals the show wherever she goes with her style.

"I stick to what makes me feel I look good in. If I feel I am looking good in something, I will wear it. And if it isn't, then even if it is the most beautifully crafted creation, I won't. That's the only criterion I use while wearing anything now and I guess that's what has worked for me, " she said, as she sat pretty in a black and red gown at a five-star hotel here.

Vidya has completely dressed down for her role in "No One Killed Jessica", where she portrays the strong-willed and simple Sabrina Lall, who fought an over-a-decade-long legal battle to get justice for her youngest sister, model Jessica Lall, who was shot dead by Manu Sharma in 1999.

She has gladly worn an "almost no make-up look" and worn "asexual" clothes in the film, releasing Jan 7.

"There's no shape to the clothes I have worn in the film. Loose t-shirts, men's shirts, loose jeans, spectacles...these are what I have worn to show what a regular girl Sabrina is, " she said, and added she dare not be caught wearing those sort of clothes in real life.

After "No One Killed Jessica", Vidya is looking forward to the release of Sujoy Ghosh's "Kahaani", and will start working on Milan Luthria's "A Dirty Picture". The latter will see her at her sensual best as she prepares to essay south-based actress Silk Smitha, best known for her sex appeal. The actress was found dead in her Chennai apartment in 1996.

Source : Santabanta

Kangana Ranaut to miss the festivals

Kangana Ranaut who's picture No Problem has recently released, is taking on a hardball. The story goes that the producer of the picture B K Modi is arranging a party on Sunday to party about the first release of their pennant

The party promises to be stopped a lavish issue with the who's who of Bollywood in participation. B K Modi has arranged the bash at his sea challenging Juhu lodge and is abandoning no stone unturned to construct this an unforgettable undertaking.

And while, the rest of the team of No Problem including Anil Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna have already accepted the party invitation, Kangana Ranaut is playing coy. She has yet not confirmed whether she will be attending the party. She is making B K Modi wait, and he is yet to hear from her. While the rest of the cast promised to be present at the bash, Kangana has not even given an answer. Says a source close B K Modi "We are yet to hear from Kangana and she hasn't yet confirmed whether she will be attending the party. We are hoping she will be able to join us for the celebrations."


Source: bollywood101

Vidya to visit Silk Smitha's home for The Dirty Picture

Vidya Balan will take a sizeable chunk of time off to explore Silk Smitha's life before getting into the part for Milan Luthria's Silk Smitha biopic, The Dirty Picture. Smitha was the controversial queen of sleaze from Tamil cinema who died under mysterious circumstances in 1996.

Currently focussed on completing Sujoy Ghosh's Kahaani in Kolkata, Balan intends to visit Eluru, Smitha's birthplace in Andhra Pradesh, as well as Chennai, the late actress' workbase. She will also meet people who were close to Smitha.

Says a source, "This is Vidya's second biographical character in a year. Just as UTV made sure that her part as Sabrina Lal in No One Killed Jessica was approved by her family, Vidya wants Silk Smitha's family to give their go-ahead."

Balan is aware that the team behind this film, producer Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Telefilms and director Milan Luthria, got into trouble with their last film Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai.

Says a source, "They had to eventually deny that Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai was Haji Mastan's biopic because of pressure from his family. Kangna Ranaut's character was modelled on Madhubala. By the end of the film, they were all denying any resemblance to her."

Says Balan, "I was surprised to hear that I had reservations about doing certain scenes in The Dirty Picture. We haven't reached that stage of discussion. We're still discussing the contract."

Apparently Balan will mention in the contract that the film is indeed and irrevocably a legitimate Silk Smitha biography. Says the actress, "One has to be very careful about portraying real lives on screen, especially controversial ones. Of course, the role comes with a sleazy connotation. But I never go by the character only. I go by the entire script."

Reportedly, director Raj Kumar Santoshi is also keen on signing her in an author-backed true-life role.

Balan sighs with happiness, "I'm glad filmmakers show so much faith in my ability to portray real people. I'd love to do a comedy with Raj Kumar Santoshi. To do a role like Sridevi's in Mr India, I'd give my right arm."


Source : Santabanta

Kareena hits back at Priyanka: I Am Beautiful!

The sets of television chat show 'Koffee With Karan' has turned into a battleground for all our Bollywood beauties.

With host Karan Johar fielding some of the most controversial questions to the celebrities sitting on his couch, they too, do not shy away from giving some of the wackiest answers in spite of the fact that they are on national television.

And if reports are to be believed, the celebrities have taken the show so seriously that they are suffering from the after effects of 'Koffee With Karan'! What else can we term the catfight between once good friends Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra?

When asked by Karan Johar what she would like to take away from Bebo's laptop, Piggy Chops promptly asked whether Kareena Kapoor at all has a computer in the first place!

And now it looks like that our catty Bebo is not prepared to sit back and listen to such baseless allegations. Well, did she go back to Karan Johar to sort things out with Priyanka Chopra? No, Kareena is smarter than that.

According to reports circulating in the media, Bebo has made it a point to post a text on her mobile phone informing all her friends and everyone else in the industry that some people may think that she does not own a laptop, but they will have to accept the fact that she is beautiful.

Through the message, Kareena Kapoor has made it very clear that she is better looking than Priyanka Chopra! What does Piggy Chops have to say about that? Fans are eagerly waiting for more!



Source : Santabanta

Inspired by Shakira, Katrina has no marriage plans

Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif says she drew inspiration from pop star Shakira for the sizzling item song "Shiela Ki Jawani" from her upcoming film "Tees Maar Khan".

When asked by reporters here about comparisons of her dance in the superhit number with that of Shakira, she said she can only dream of such comparisons.

"I can only dream of such comparisons. To be very frank, I drew inspiration from her. If my dance in the song 'Shiela ki Jawani' reminds the viewers of Shakira, it's a huge reward for me, " said Katrina Kaif, who was in Kolkata with her "Tees Maar Khan" co-star Akshay Kumar Saturday for the promotion of the film.

She was all praises for director Farah Khan and gave her the credit for the grand success of the song.

"We have worked hard for the song. But the credit goes to Farah and her conceptualisation of the song. She is a brilliant choreographer, " the actress said.

"Tees Maar Khan", directed by Farah, is slated to release Dec 24. It has already hit the headlines for its scorching item song "Shiela Ki Jawani" featuring Katrina.

Asked about her role, Katrina said she is not so bold in the film as it seems from "Shiela Ki Jawani".

"My role is of an aspiring actress. She is not so very aggressive as it looked in the song. She is very naive and sweet. She is the girlfriend to Akshay in the film. She lands herself into trouble because of her own stupidity. It's a fun kind of a character, " the actress said.

Katrina Kaif also says she has no plans to tie the knot right now, but feels that marriage is a cute thing.

"I don't have any plans. But I think marriage is one of the cute things. You have to leave it in god's hand, " said Katrina.

When the question about Katrina's marriage was popped to Akshay, he shot back: "Why do you want her to get married? She is a very talented actress. She is making her career. Let her make it."

The movie revolves around Tarbez Mirza Khan, a criminal played by Akshay, and his girlfriend Anya played by Katrina who gets the job of robbing antiques worth Rs.500 crore from a heavily guarded moving train. The film is an action comedy.


Source : Santabanta