Manish Koirala elegant,talented actress who made her bollywood debut with "Saudagar" (By Subhash Ghai) was diognosed with cancer and has undergone successful treatment, is said to be back to normal life and is looking forward to resume work.

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

Pavan Malhotra

Divya Dutta and Farhan Akhtar

Farhan Akhtar as Milkha Singh

So far the greatest surprise of 2013 was Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" based on life of former Indian track and field sprinter Milkha Singh who also is known as a "Flying sikh"
Having done over 104Crore(17Million US$) business world wide, it entered the elite membership of 100 Crore business Club of Bollywood Fillms in recent times.
But besides the money spinning , Film will be remembered for time to come for its honest story telling, stellar performances and overall high quality and technical achievements.
Such films will set the foundation for a new era of Indian films to be  made in future,which will  compete on international level and will be appreciated by much larger audiences beyond global boundries.

Farhan Akhtar's, Divya Dutta's and every character in the film is so beutifully crafted and have been performed by artists that for a moment one  it allows you to forget that  you are watching a movie.
Pavan Malhotra as a trainer is amazingly good(see inset pic)

A lot of hardwork, dedication and efforts are put in to create such masterpiece. Only a critic eye can dissect and see all the aspects of a film
Music is the only weak shade of BMB- may be due to fact there was nothing much of a scope to render melodies in between when makers were busy narrating a very emotional story and one can give a benefit of doubt to that part.
Overall an immensely Enjoyable Film


Rating: Very Good -**** 4/5

 
Shah Rukh Khan Deepika Starrer "Chennai Express" surpassed all previous box office records in Indian film Industry as it crossed 300 crore(About 48 Million US$) business at this time. 
Rohit Shetty the Director of the film has proven himself again. His earlier films Singham, Bol Bachchan, Golmaal 3 have already been very successful in box office.
Deepika Padukone is lucky again after her last very popular film "Yeh Jawanee hai Diwanee" with Ranbeer Kapoor. 
She is in a phase where every hit film will consolidate her position as an actress in bollywood where as of now not many young female artistes are vying for top position after Kareena's little slow post marriage pace and not any other  notable actress worth mentioning other than Priyanka Chopra who has been in indusrty for over 10 years and a much younger actor should be ready to overtake, Deepika certainly has her age and looks advantage to go ahead of any other contemporary actresses for at least few years to come.
Shah Rukh on the other hand has  definitely all reasons to be more than happy with this film proving a lucky mascot after his few earlier films didn't fare well (Ra. One,Billoo Barber) His "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" had Yash Chopra  tag to create late director's magical spell ti bring crowd to theatres but as a film it had nothing much to talk about. 
Some rightly put an arguement "Who Cares for quality of films these days?" How much business it does is all that matters to be successful. 
If doing business of over 100 crore  is yardstick for films to be remembered, we will see how in years to come, a film will be remembered,watched or loved for its content as much as some of films of golden era(1960-70) are remembered and appreciated even today.

The movie per se is a typical bollywood formula film with South Indian  precepts and tamil diologues  to appeal South Indian filmgoers in particular. But its novel comic stroy line seems to have got acceptance by others across the country and abroad to make it so successful. 
Yet one wonders,  the strange outcome of a film's success or failure whether  has anything to do with 
content or quality of film in its entirety.
Deepika has done full justice to her role with freshness and poignancy. 
Shah Rukh has only his star value to add.
It was nice to see veteral Kamini Kaushal after a long time.

Rated: ** 2/5- (Average)

Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai Lyrics( Film:Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi-2008)
Tu hi toh jannat meri, Tu hi mera junoon
Tu hi to mannat meri, Tu hi rooh ka sukoon
Tu hi aakhion ki thandak, tu hi dil ki hai dastak
Aur kuch na janu mein, bas itna hi jaanu
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Sajdhe sar jukhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Ohhhh hoooo ohh….
Kaisi hai yeh doori, kaisi majboori
Meine nazron se tujhe choo liya
Oh ho ho Kabhi teri khusboo
Kabhi teri baatein
Bin mange yeh jahan pa liya
Tu hi dil ki hai raunak,
Tu hi janmo ki daulat
Aur kuch na janoo
Bas itna hi janoo
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Sajdhe sar jukhta hai
Yaara mein kya karuo
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karuo
Vasdi vasdi vasdi, dil di dil vich vasdi
Nasdi nasdi nasdi, dil ro ve te nasdi
Rab Ne… Bana Di Jodi…..haiiiiii
Vasdi vasdi vasdi, dil di dil vich vasdi
Nasdi nasdi nasdi, dil ro ve te nasdi
Cham cham aaye, mujhe tarsaye
Tera saaya ched ke chumta
Oh ho ho… tu jo muskaye
Tu jo sharmaye
Jaise mera hai khuda jhumta
Tu hi meri hai barkat, tu hi meri ibadat
Aur kuch na janu, bas itna hi janu
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Sajdhe sar jukhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Yaara mein kya karu
Vasdi vasdi vasdi, dil di dil vich vasdi
Nasdi nasdi nasdi, dil ro ve te nasdi

Sanjay Dutt

The Supreme Court today dismissed actor Sanjay Dutt's petition that his conviction in the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts case be reconsidered.
A curative petition was filed after the dismissal of the review petition.

He is at Yerawada jail in Pune.

When opposites meet, there is a flutter.
According to recent news ,at a Iftar party hosted by Congress leader Baba Siddique both Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan met,shook hands and hugged each other.
Personal differences and confrontations have kept two stars not seeing each other and several attempts for reconciliation having failed in the past, hope this gesture brings animosity,bitterness to an end

Sanjay Dutt

Sanjay Dutt came out of jail after two months for a medical check up. Sources confirmed he had full medical checkup that lasted three hours.The reason for check up was not disclosed but he is believed to be not well for some time.

Anu Agarwal

Remember Actress of Original "Aashiqui" ?
This video was a surprise and painful to see how Anu Agarwal life had turned topsy turvy.

Pran no more

Legendary actor passed away on July 12th leaving behind a legacy in Indian film industry and a history of films  and roles he played, he will be always remembered for. A gentleman, family person , perfectionist, very few can achieve what Pran accomplished over six decades of his career.

Before tributes began pouring in and world wakes up to learn about his demise, this piece is just a reverent homage to man most respected, admired and loved by every one in the industry and by his fans across the world. Once I wished him on his birthday through an email and quickly came the reply with his autograph and few pictures .

Every year thereafter, I made a point to send him wishes and always there was a response.

Once a woman mentioned that only actor she would always hate was Pran shows the impact he had with characters he played. Same Actor who always excelled in negative roles changed his image with film Upkar and left an I indelible print on the minds of filmgoers. That role till today, stands out and "Upkar"is one of his signature films.

His cremation was done on July13th Surprisingly, very few film personalities turned up to pay homage.Amitabh, Shatrughan Sinha, Danny, Gulzar, Karan Johar, Raza Muraad, Pankaj Dheer, Shakti Kapoor were the only present.
If Twitter is platform to say everything, many of course posted their message on social media platforms.
Somewhere, personal values and respect for relations are on low ebb. Many were reacting for not having most of film artistes showing up to pay respect for a senior artiste like Pran.

Was it  a rainy day or other engagements or total disregard for one who gave so much to industry, will be known soon but this is not becoming unusual now a days. Only when publicity and need are sought, most film fraternity gather whatever be the occasion. Be a party thrown or an award function, people travel thousands of miles to attend but on a sombre and sad day, when some one is no more, few think it proper to attend the last journey and bid adieu to  a colleague.

All said, Pran will be remembered for years to come and will be part of glorious history of Indian Cinema. He needed no recognition, love, respect as he always had abundance of everything.
Some one pays respect or not doesn't matter to  one who is gone but it pains every one who was close to Pran sahib.

A tweet from Dilip kumar mentioned how he and Pran enjoyed lighter moments and Punjabi jokes  together
Other tweeted:
Amitabh Bachchan:

Pran Saheb passes away ! A gentleman, most collaborative colleague, a senior of immense distinction, a true disciplined professional.

"Another magnificent pillar of the Film Industry, falls. Our illustrious edifice in ruins, as stalwart after stalwart leaves !"

Shah Rukh Khan:

"Why do icons who shaped our lives and emotions have to go away? U will sir, remain etched in our hearts. Allah bless ur soul Pran Sahib"

Riteish Deshmukh: SHER KHAN u will live for ever- RIP Pran Saab
Preity Zinta: R.I.P Pran Saheb ! Did not know him personally but heard he was a perfect gentleman with a heart of gold ! May your soul rest in Peace...
Madhur Bhandarkar: Extremely saddened by the demise of the LEGENDARY PRANSAAB, who revolutionised Villainy on Indian Celluloid !!!
Abhishek Kapoor: oh dear.. RIP Pran saab.. thank you for all those wonderful movies
Manoj Bajpayee: May pran saab's soul rest in peace!in an industry of hero an villain he ruled the space he was given.thank you praan saab!
Sophie Choudry: Just heard the news. End of an era. RIP #Pran Saab. U will always be our Sher Khan. #Legend

Kabir Bedi: Farewell Pran sahib, Godfather of Indian villains, your legendary characters illuminated the annals of Indian cinema. Deepest respects. RIP

Smriti Z Irani: Its your talent that will define your career as an actor not the tag of 'hero' or 'villain'-- that's the example set by Pran Sahab. RIP.
Anupam Kher: Final Curtain Call for one of the Most Loved Actors of Indian Cinema. An Actor & A Gentleman. Pran Saab- We will miss you & your Warmth.RIP

Hrithik Roshan

Hrithik underwent a successful brain surgery for removal of a clot, which is said to have been caused by a head injury he suffered during the shoot of Bang Bangin Phuket, his father and filmmaker Rakesh Roshan had earlier revealed.

The 39-year-old, who was diagnosed with chronic subdural haematoma, was admitted to the hospital on July 6 evening, and he was operated upon the following day.

Jiah Khan

Jiah Khan, 25 -a young actress who shot to fame for  her first role in “Nishabdh” opposite Amitabh Bachchan in 2007 committed Suicide on June 3^rd.

She also acted in Ghajani (Aamir Khan Starrer )and “Houseful”.

Depression was attributed as cause of her untimely death. Her Boyfriend Suraj Pancholi, son of actors Aditya Pancholi and Zarina Wahab was taken to custody for initial investigations.  Released on bail after three weeks, Suraj will have to continue reporting to police authorities for some more time, until his name is cleared from legal files.
Media has been reporting various versions and stories about her. Probably she made more news after her death than while she was alive. 

Dada Saheb Phalke award for Pran

Pran the veteran actor is awarded Dada Saheb Phalke award, India's highest film award conferred by Government. Award comes in the form of a golden lotus trophy a shawl and 1 million Indian Rupees. Other prominent personalities from industry who received the award are Naushad,Ashoka Kumar,Satyajit Ray,Lata Mangeshkar,Dilip Kumar,Dev Anand,RajKapoor,Manna Dey,B.R.Chopra and Yash Chopra.

Ranbir and Deepika

Ranbir and Deepika were  spotted in a night club "Live". After parting, they are reported seen together quite often. Old flames seemingly, are still kindled and bright.- Source: Filmfare

What stars have to say

"I think ( awards season) is total,utter bull-bleep,and I don't want to be part of it.I don't believe in it.
It's a carrot but it's worst tasting carrot I have ever tasted in my whole life.
I don't want this carrot"

JOAQUIN PHOENIX

What Stars Have to say

"I have always wanted(babies)...I am going to be 38-It's time (my eggs are) hard-boiled and fried and scrambled up in there, so it's time to get those eggs working"

Tyra Banks

Divya Dutta at Toronto, August 2012

At Rose theatre Toronto
Play: Teri Amrita by Javed Siddiqi
August 5,2012

 First Punjabi International Film Academy Awards  were organized at Toronto,Canada.
 Amonst leading personalities  from Bombay Films  were Dharmendra, Divya Dutta, Prem Chopra,
 Om Puri. Much publicity and media coverage brought this event to international platform though it was not expected to be at same level of perfection and grandeur as of most of Bollywood Awards events held internationally or in Mumbai. Overall, it was a daring and herculean task for organizers to initiate such event keeping in mind that even IIFA awards held here in 2011 were not very successful.

The best thing to happen next day on August 5th ,2012  was a play written by Javed Siddiqi where Om Puri and Divya Dutta played the main characters. A simple play with very simple story telling, the two great actors kept audience spellbound. After the play, as lights turned on, people were seen with tearful eyes and emotions which only could be evoked by brilliance of acting and direction.

Irfaan Khan's Official website is here. A good trend that today's stars recognize the value of technology and promote themselves accordingly. Whose website is better is for readers to comment.

Here is link
http://www.irrfan.com/

 Here is MallikaSherawat's Website link. Enjoy browsing

http://www.mallikasherawatwow.com/

Nanda resurfaces

Nanda,the famous star of 60's- never forgotten by millions of her fans but after her self imposed exile didn't make any public appearance for a long time.
Following link reports her recent appearance with Waheeda Rehman.

Nanda resurfaces- A press clipping

Aayeeye Bahar Ko Hum - Farida Jalal & Jalal Agha - taqdeer

March 14th is birthday of our talented beautiful actress Farida Jalal. Wishing her a very happy Birthady.

Thought to ponder

Colonel chats with a Soldier posted during British Days

Posted to India during the days of the Raj, a young soldier was

Posted to India during the days of the Raj, a young soldier was greeted by the colonel of his new regiment.

“You’ll like it here, Caruthers,” he said.

“We keep ourselves entertained. On Monday evening we have a poker session and...”

“I don’t gamble, sir,” interrupted Caruthers.

“Oh,” said the colonel. “Never mind. Tuesday is drinking night.”

“I don’t drink, sir,” said Caruthers.

“That’s all right,” said the colonel. “Maybe Wednesday night is up your street. Girls come and entertain us, if you know what I mean.”

“I don’t associate with loose women,” said Caruthers loftily.

“Look here!” barked the colonel. “You’re not gay, lad, are you?”

“Certainly not, sir,” replied Caruthers.

“Ah, well,” sighed the colonel, “then you won’t like Thursday night, either.” Terry Burgess in Reader Digest Australia

Snake Dance - Waheeda Rehman - Dev Anand - Guide - S.D. Burman - Bollywo...

The famous snake dance of Waheeda Rehman in "Guide" is one of the best ever dances picturised in any Hindi movie

Found a great Canadian Magazine on a recent visit to Buffalo (USA)
here is link:
tm

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet 36 year old British actress will receive an honorary Ce'sar award on Februry 24th from organizers of French equivalent of Academy Awards for Roman Polanski's Clashing couples film Carnage.

Worst films awards are given by Razzies in the west.
check the link below.

Razzies.com

Bollywood stars better watch out. Movie fans in India are handing out their own versions of Razzies,the annual Oscars spoof that spotlights Hollywood's worst performances.
The second Ganta(Bell) Awards and fourth Golden Kela(Golden Banana) awards are doing rounds of social media networkks with fans voting in various categories for the worst films in 2011-Reuters
The Ghanta Awards
Golden Kela Awards

Raj Kanwar eminent director died at Singapore due to kidney ailment on February 3,2012 . He was only 50. Deewana and Andaaz were his most successful films.

he directed following films:

Sadiyaan (2010) Humko Deewana Kar Gaye (2006) Andaaz (2003) Ab Ke Baras (2002) Farz (2001) Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke (2000) Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega... (2000) Badal (2000) Daag: The Fire (1999) Itihaas (1997) Jeet (1996) Jaan (1996) Kartavya (1995) Laadla (1994) Deewana (1992)

The Stoning of Soraya M. - Official Trailer [HD]

A "Must watch " movie. Some true stories are so touching and heart rending to push one into thinking how some people suffer in agony of misfortune caused by none other than their own people.

Sad but true -another story of once shining star fading away.
This is the news which appeared in the media.



The song never failed to bring a smile on your face. When Balraj Sahni serenaded his Zohra Jabeen, in possibly one of the most romantic songs picturised on a mature couple, Achala Sachdev's coy smile and twinkling eyes melted a thousand hearts.

Those eyes are weighed down with pain, the lips now parted in agony as the veteran actress remains confined to a nondescript hospital bed in Pune.

If you are lucky, you may be able to catch the song Ae Meri Zohra Jabeen on a special segment on the radio or perhaps on national TV. The actress, who has acted in more than 250 films in her career, should be lucky if she is remembered. Such is the vagary of stardom.

Forty years ago, Achala Sachdev moved to Pune after marrying British national Clifford Douglas Peters, making the city her home. However, despite attempts at philanthropy, Sachdev has been abandoned by the same city in hard times, after her husband passed away in 2002. For the last 12 years, the actress has lived a lonely life in her two-bedroom Konark Estates apartment near Poona Club, with only a night attendant to take care of her.

On September 8, Sachdev suffered a fracture in her femur when she went into her kitchen to get a glass of water. She was shifted to the Poona Hospital and Research Centre but discharged soon. Then, she was re-admitted after she being diagnosed with multiple emboli in her brain leading to quadriplegia - total paralysis of all four limbs and torso. Since October 21, Sachdev is under treatment at Poona Hospital. It would be a miracle if she survives this.

Rajiv Nanda, a close family friend of Sachdev, told Mirror that he has been contacting people from the film fraternity and updating them about Sachdev's heath. However, he complained that there are no attendants to take care of her at the hospital. "She needs proper care and right treatment. There should be two full-time attendants with her."

After her husband's death, Sachdev spent most of her time meditating and listening to meditation music and discourses. Five years ago, she gifted her flat to the Janseva Foundation. In return, founder-chairman Dr Vinod Shah took on the responsibility of looking after her. When Mirror spoke to Shah, he said Sachdev's condition is improving and she is responding to medication.

"I am taking proper care of her. For the last few days there have been no attendants, because they are squabbling with hospital staff. Otherwise there are always two attendants looking after her. Her son will reach Pune on December 27 from the US," Shah said.

Nanda narrated how Sachdev met and married Peters and came to Pune. In an almost filmy turn, Sachdev was introduced to Peters by Yash Chopra on the sets of a film in Mumbai. Peter's first wife had passed away by then and Sachdev herself was a divorcee. They ended up tying the knot. Peters, a mechanical engineer, had a factory in Bhosari and the couple lived in a bungalow in the same area for a while before shifting to Hadapsar.

"I was introduced to the couple when I had gone to attend to a leakage problem in their house some 27 years ago. We soon became very good friends. Peters always motivated Sachdev to keep acting as she was so passionate about it," Nanda recalled.

Sachdev's son Jyotin from her first husband, says Nanda, studied and worked away from home. Though in 2006, Sachdev visited him in the US for her granddaughter's wedding, the son hardly ever visited her,

preferring to keep in touch over the phone. Sachdev also has a daughter in Mumbai, who is not in touch with her.

About Achala sachdev

Achala Sachdev began her career in Bollywood as a child star. But soon, she became popular for essaying roles as a mother and grandmother. Her most memorable films

Arzoo 1965
Waqt 1965
Mere Naam Joker 1970
Hare Rama Hare Krishna 1971
Chandni 1989
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge 1995
Kabhi Kushi Kabhe Gham 2001
Kal Ho Naa Ho 2003

Bollywood fans line up outside the TIFF Bell Lightbox to see Shah Rukh Khan - 680News

Bollywood fans line up outside the TIFF Bell Lightbox to see Shah Rukh Khan - 680News

Love Breakups Jindagi(2011) is simple yet story of contemporary youth- ambitious, independant fun loving and still facing challenges on personal lives.
Nothing new to talk about yet it's refreshing movie with different shades of emotional ups and down.
Both Zahed Khan and Diya Mirza make cute on screen couple (though bit stiff in their acts at times.)
Highlights of movie however, are Cyrus Sahukar and Tisca Chopra in small but key roles, they steal scenes from main characters.Javed Akhtar's lyrics are beautifully penned.

Boman Irani in a very short appearance is joy to watch.

Overall a nice, refreshing and a worth seeing movie.

****

****

Shammi Kapoor

August 14th ,2011 Indian film industry lost one of its most beloved actors- Shammi Kapoor.
Entire industry paid homage, showcased his immense popularity. This 79 year veteran had a career spanning over 50 years.
His personal life was like rollercoast rides with peaks and lows in personal and professional life.
At the peak of his career, he suddenly lost his wife Geeta Bali.Family turmoil with young kids, left Shammi disillusioned and aloof. His career took a sharp dip from a level when he was regarded as one most successful stars of the ara after front liners of Dilip,RajKapoor,DevAnand.

In one of the interviews ('Shammi Kapoor unplugged')he revealed his desire ever was to work with Ashok kumar, the opportunity he never got in a film but sometime in 1980's an offer to do a Paan Parag commercial with Dadamuni(Ashok kumar) impulsively made him accept the offer to fulfil his dream.The commercial advertisement made both product and Shammi popular again.
The incident , Shammi kapoor narrated was of a family visit to Honkong where crowd cheered his brothers Raj & Shashi Kapoor. But as reached airport, crowd screamed at him as Paan Parag.
Raj according to Shammi's own words was dismayed and reacted what di he do to his glorious successful films like Teesri Manzil, Junglee, Professor, Tum sa nahi dekha. His PanParag ad had erased his image with this name. Shammi was always impetuous and respected Raj's advice,yet he just wanted to work with Ashok Kumar

Signature Film: Brahamchari

Shammi Kapoor’s death saddens his childhood friends

Peshawar—Death of Indian film industry legend, the versatile Shammi Kapoor has not only upset his fans but also his childhood friends, the residents of Dhaki Munawwar Shah in Peshawar city, birth place of Kapoor family which has produced great actors in Bollywood after migration to India.
The elders of Dhaki Munawar Shah still reminisce the good days they spent with Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor and Shashi Kapoor.

The house of the legendary Kapoors at Dhaki Munawar Shah, in the heart of the Peshawar City, is still known as “Kapoor’s house” and the dwellers recall that before partition, Prithvi Raj, father of Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor and Shashi Kapoor, used to live in this house along with other family members.

In late 1930, Prithvi Raj went to Bombay and started his acting career. He was followed by his son Raj Kapoor.

“I used to play with Raj Kapoor and Shammi Kapoor and had friendly association with them,” recalls Muhammad Yousaf, an octogenarian who resides in neighborhood of Kapoor’s house. Shashi Kapoor was much junior at that time and therefore I did’nt have association with him, he added.

Yousaf said though he had no contact with Kapoors after migration to India, but the death of Shammi Kapoor has saddened him. “In fact he was my childhood friend,” he murmured.

During our childhood there was no concept of Hindu-Muslim and we used to play together in streets and even eat meal at each other houses.

There was no restriction in visiting each other houses and people of that time were very loving and relations between neighbors were very cordial. Another man Yaqoob Khan who was a schoolfellow of Raj Kapoor and an erstwhile milk-seller said he had studied with Raj Kapoor in a primary school and later both got admission to Khalsa Dharam School at Khyber Bazar, Peshawar to seek education in higher grade.

Fawad Ismail, a city dweller, informed APP that his father Muhammad Ismail who died recently, was not only a class fellow of Shammi Kapoor, but also his desk fellow in a primary school at Dhaki. “My father told me that he and Shammi Kapoor studied together in primary school of Headmaster Devan Dena Naath. The school building was later acquired by Muhammad Aashiq who made it his residence”, Fawad Ismai added.

Fawad said death of Shammi also saddened him because he regarded him as friend of his father. In early sixties, my father (Ismail) along with some other friends, including trader’s leader Haji Haleem Jan, Gama Pehalwan (paternal uncle of Indian superstar Shah Rukh Khan) and Abdul Manan went to India and met the Kapoors who welcomed their Peshawari friends with open arms and played host to them, Fawad said. “My late father was very happy that Kapoors had not forgotten their childhood friends, and that their love for their native city-Peshawar-and its people was intact,” Fawad said with sense of pride.

“Being a human being, Shammi departs, but his memories will remain alive in the minds of his fans and people of his birthplace,” commented Yaqoob.—APP
Source: an article from Pakistan Observer.
His Son aditya pays homage to his father:
Late legend Shammi Kapoor's son Aditya Raj Kapoor says his father "wrote the manual for our future generations" but yet he would like to be compared to his mother Geeta Bali for his acting.

"At the age of 76 he played my career guide and mentor. My father allowed me to go where I wanted away from home and do whatever I wished. Today, I've allowed both my children the same freedom. My father wrote the manual for our future generations," said Aditya.

"Nothing can compare with my father. I recently told my dad I look, walk and talk like him. But for my acting I want to be compared with my mother. I can only try to be a good human being. Besides that I want to build a memorial for my parents. My first mother grew up in penury and died before she could enjoy a good life. Today my parents are united."

Shammi Kapoor, known for hits like Dil Deke Dekho and Teesri Manzil, died Monday after kidney failure.

Aditya fondly remembers his father as someone who allowed him to chart out his own life and says that he followed his dad's footsteps by letting his children chase their dreams.

"There's a black-and-white photograph we put up for the chautha. That's the first picture I remember of my dad taken when we moved into the house where I now live. We moved in when I was three years old after his first flush of success with the release of Tumsa Nahin Dekha. Looking at that photograph, I remembered how much fun I had going for the shooting with him," said Aditya.

"When I was driving down to the cremation ground with his body, people had put his songs on loudspeakers. Chahe mujhe koi junglee kahe was being played for the final send-off.

"People peeped into the ambulance, threw flowers inside and said, Yahoo. I realised my father's mantra only after he died. Shammiji ka mantra Yahoo tha. At that moment I had the full and complete realization of what it meant to be Shammi Kapoor's son," he added.

Aditya was sent to Lawrence School in Sanawar when he was only six-year-old.

"Dad came every year for the Founders Day. Pran saab and Sunil Dutt saab also came because their children were also there. Sanju and Pran saab's daughter Pinky in fact came to meet me yesterday. Pinky was my local guardian-sister in Sanawar. When I wanted more money, I had to take her permission.

"My mother Geeta Bali, an almost-uneducated woman, came to see me at boarding school more often than my father. My mother had given up her career and my father's had just started. So she had more time to visit me. My mother was the original Sridevi. She passed away when I was 9."

Those were not easy years for Aditya.

"Mom was gone. Dad had become so successful he had no time for me. Superstars today have organised lives. In my father's time, fans used to barge into our home at any time. I was left with no space that I could call my own with my father," said Aditya who gives credit to his step mom Neela Devi for putting his life on track.

"She (Neela Devi) devoted her life to my father, decided not to have any children of her own because me and my sister were already there. Neela Devi was the best bandage on my tender wounds. She turned me from a wounded anguished rebellious howling animal to a human being."

Aditya never stopped missing Geeta Bali, though.

"My first and second mothers were different persons. Do you know, my second mother was a fan of Shammi Kapoor and Geeta Bali. She once went for an autograph. Geetaji wrote, 'Remember 'M' remember 'E', put them together and remember 'Me'. Geetaji almost blessed Neela Devi as though she knew what was going to happen.

"Geetaji was very adventurous. She was the only woman in the word who could punch my dad and get away with it. She is the one who made Shammi Kapoor into a star. Before Geetaji, Shammi Kapoor was under the shadows of his father Prithiviraj Kapoor and his brother Raj Kapoor."

Geeta Bali's end came all of a sudden.

"My mother was gone in just 15 days. She had gone on location in rural Punjab where she contracted smallpox. It was for a film called Rano, which was later made with Rishi Kapoor and Hema Malini as Ek Chadar Mali Si. At that time Dharmendra was playing Rishi's role and Mummy was playing Hema's role. Then she fell ill. My father left his shooting and picked both of us up. She got worse and died. Dad was doing Teesri Manzil when she died." The death of his mother scarred Aditya for life.

"It took my second mother a good 10 years to heal me of that loss. By the time I was 17. I was a rebel without a cause. I was going to make my film debut. Then I found my spiritual guru and he told me - Leave The Film Industry'. I left. My father questioned my decision over and over again. But I was adamant.

He worked with shipping magnate Yogendra Madhav Lal and then Rajan Nanda.

"Then I started my own company. For 25 years, I never looked at cinema, stopped seeing films... After my Guruji's death too I didn't look at the film industry. Only after I migrated to Dubai did I return to movies. Circumstances forced me to direct 300 episodes of a TV serial. I directed my first English-language film, followed by two other films. Then I returned to Mumbai at the age of 52, I became an actor...finally

Shammi Kapoor developed his own website. Here is link:
Shammi Kapoor website

Mohammad Rafi - Ek Haseen Sham Ko Dil Mera Kho Gaya - Film Dulhan Ek Raa...

Tumhe Yaad Karte Karte

Song of this week : Film Amarapali(1966) Lata's soft melodious voice and great music made this song one of all time favourites. Vyjanthimala looked stunningly beautiful.

Shammi Kapoor’s death saddens his childhood friends

Shammi Kapoor’s death saddens his childhood friends

Falak Dekhun (Garam Masala)

Watch this beautiful song sung by Sonu Nigam

Raghuvir Yadav

One of the most talented actors Hindi Film Industry has ever had. Indian Audiences however, do rarely appreciate such talents. Movies after movies he has proven his acting talents. Commercial success however, is far flung for the likes of true artists like him.Yet, he will go in the history of Indian cinema as ever shining performer.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raghubir_Yadav

Remember this beautiful elegant personality seen in several movies and ads. First movie she appeared in was Bhuwan Shome back in 1969.

read more about her in following link:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suhasini_Mulay

IIFA 2011 Dharmendra, Sunny and Bobby Performance

Dharmedra spoke straight from his heart in IIFA 2011 at Toronto.Crowd cheered him every time he spoke in Punjabi and had Urdu shayari in his unique style.
Amazing to see his charisma even after being almost five decades in industry.

Hot Bath

marriage is like hot bath. Once you get used to it , it's not so hot

Divya Dutta

Indian cinema always had beautiful, charming actresses in lead roles as well in support. From 50s' till date Nadira,Nanda,Nazima,Naaz ,Shashikala,Kumkum,Bharti,Farida Jalal contributed no less than those in forefront playing lead roles. Nazima in Arzoo, Mehre Mehboob and several other films can't be forgotten so easily. Nadira stole the screen with her performances in Shri 420, Aan & Julie and so the others. Divya Dutta is one of contemporaries who have created a niche in the industry as one of the most verstile, bold, beautiful and talented actresses.Her role in Train to Pakistan, Veerzaara ,Joggers's park,Welcome to Sajjanpur will be always remembered .Ironically she didn't get due share of credit she deserves. Directors in Hindi cinema fear to experiment with great artistes. They rather look for commercial saleability of a person and cast those who fit best. All it needs is,one great film to be signature movie to takeoff star's career to greater heights.

`Hope directors like Sanjay Bhansali, Aamir Khan, Vishal Bhardwaj, Madhur Bhandarkar,Ashotosh Gowariker will cast Divya in future films as her fans will get to see her more poweful performances.

Tsunami

Wake up like on a normal day to find world has changed so much in matters of few seconds. This is how it felt like on March 11 when twitter did the magic work spreading news across the world that Japan was reeling under worst earthquake in its history of 8.9 magnitude- 8000 times stronger than one, that impacted Newzealand early this year. Till now, several hundreds have lost lives and several are reported missing. Tragedy had struck in the ugliest form and all one can hope and pray for the safety and health of people. There is saying that only one "who wears, knows where the shoe pinches"- is true in its meaning that it's only people and nation will know how much such disaster will affect them now and in days to come.Japanese are tough people who have embraced adversities in the past if we go by history and built their nation from scratch. All one can hope is that they will recover soon and no other natural calamities may come their way. Few of our film actors and artistes responded in their tweets to share their concern. Amitabh Bachchan(he is always first to respond),Sonakshi Sinha,Vivek Uberoi,Shreya Ghoshal used Twitter to express shock. Not that others did't react but probably thir own silence and not through modern day social networking media. This Blog started to cover people in Hindi Films, but then now on why now we will share other information also, thorough the eyes of Bombay Studios Blog.We can"t live in islands with no one around. our feeling and emotions should encompass the entire humanity and people all over the world. Will share with you more news on Tsunami. In the meantime,Readers -please post your comments and views.

A journey

Kareena doesn't think Kat, PC are actors - Hindustan Times

In an interview to Mid Day Kareena was asked whether she felt any competition from Katrina and Priyanka. She quipped" I thought you were talking about actors" A good actor is always modest. No one is great enough in this industry to put others down.History is replete with great examples who were once "The Great"are todays forgotten stars or actors.
Kareena doesn't think Kat, PC are actors - Hindustan Times

“I was very depressed after Delhi 6 flopped” - Hindustan Times

“I was very depressed after Delhi 6 flopped” - Hindustan Times

7 Khoon Maaf - Bharadwaj ready with black comedy - Hindustan Times

7 Khoon Maaf - Bharadwaj ready with black comedy - Hindustan Times

Arshad Warsi

Found Arshad Warsi's website to share with my readers.
http://www.arshadwarsi.net

On February 12th 2011, Pran, one of the all time great actors of Hindi Cinema celebrated his 91st Birthday.Like every year, I sent him my best wishes this year too. His reply came quick with some pictures he sent me. I really appreciate his zeal for life and being so popular within Industry speaks a lot about his personality.His family support and happiness, love of millions of his arden fans will make him always one of the most shining stars of Indian Cinema.
Once again,Pran ji , Wishing you all the happiness, good health and many years to live. Your films will continue to entertain every one .

What`s troubling Shahrukh Khan

Shahrukh, acclaimed King of Bollywood has not been very likeable with Industry in recent years. I remember, Rajesh Khanna in 70's had similar accolades showered on him by everyone while there were greats of Dilip Kumar, Devanand and ohers overshadowed by his current Charisma.History repeats itself and I am seeing same story being repeated by Shahrukh. His claim to kingdom( self claimed or created by his circle of friends- not known)has invited wrath of his several contemporaries. In every award fuction, he was seen making fun of others. Not to every one liking, he obviously is loathed by every one. From Aamir Khan to Salmaan, Neel Nitin Mukesh and others he has found himself in troubled waters recently.

Money and glory are phases and continue to change their courses. Only those with modesty and down to earth approach continue to play long innings in this Industry.
Will Shharukh will be there to rule the industry in the years to come is difficult question to answer but odds are not too favourite. I hope,Shahrukh's story doesnot look like a sequel to Rajesh Khanna's era of 1970s

Romancing with Life

At the launch of his book in Bhartiya vidya Bhawan, New York

I am still looking for Dev Saheb's book "Romancing with life" No wonder the title of the book perfectly matches his zest to live life to fullest. Devanand is one actor in bollywood who is always seen brimming with unimaginable amount of energy and enthusiasm. Like contemporaries of Dilip Kumar and Pran , I wonder there should be some common factors for these artistes to live such a beautiful long journey of life and still remaining as excited as before. An industry where people climb glorious heights and fade away soon, there remains enigma of these people who are still around and enjoying life as ever. God bless them!

Tu Pyar Ka Sagar Hai [seema] 1955 www.hotfile.com.pk

1960s

1960's period was the golden era of Indian film industry.Shankar Jaikishen,kalyanji-Anandji,Madan Mohan, Naushad,SD burman,Roshan,OP Nayyar created popular and melodious numbers in every film they worked for.Sangam, Jis desh me ganga behti hai, Hum Dono, Tere ghar ke Samne, Aarzoo, Mere Mehboob, Anpad, Dil Apna preet parayee, Dil ek mandir, Professor,Dosti,Guide,Jewel thief, Mugle e-azham, Aadmi, Upkar,Himalay ki God main, Haryali aur Raasta, Aarti were few films which had such good music that their songs are even today refresh pleasant memories.Each music director and Lyricist as if was trying to out pace other. Lyrics reflected by pre partition urdu inflence and poetry style.
Sahir,Shailendra, Raja mehndi Ali khan,Indivar became most sought after lyricists.
Most the films in this period had successful run due to good music.

Kaun Banega Crorepati

Amitabh Bachachan at the almost end this season kept saying goodbye and weird adieu.His come back in KBC was more impressive than before. Love and cheer he received showed enormous popularity, he commands today.Unlike his peers, he keeps himself in touch with his fans, through his blog and twitter, contemporary IT Tools which help building stream of young generation of followers. His elegance and screen presence is unparalleled.

I recall one incident when my aunty came home after watching a very famous hindi film and instead of praising the movie, she kept sayingthat she hated Pran. This man shouldn't be in films. I can imagine how natural this person would have looked on screen to evoke such strong emoions. How many of today's actors in negative roles can live up to this actor's versatility?Not even one worth mentioning. But on flip side, in his personal life he is known a gentleman , most adorable and loved artistes in Indian Film Industry.

Once googling I found his webbsite (find it in Link section) and sent him a personal message greeting him on his birthday. I am sure a family member would ave launched this site but came a reply soon thanking me for witing to him. Every year comes February and I remember his birthday and send him wishes. He still watches Cricket matches and television and spends his quality time with his fanily.Below is reply I received from him:

fromPran Sikand <pransikand@gmail.com>toPran Sikand <pransikand@gmail.com>
dateWed, Sep 9, 2009 at 8:09 AM subjectThank youmailed-bygmail.comsigned-bygmail.com
hide details 8:09 AM (15 hours ago)
Thank you for your good wishes. I thank you for your love and support over the years. I recently celebrated my birthday with friends and family. It is my family and well wishers like you, who keep my spirits high

My autobiography, titled ‘…and PRAN ’ by the late Bunny Reuben, published by Harper Collins was released by Amitabh Bachchan . The book is now available in Hindi and Marathi as well,at all leading book stores. I now spend my time watching sports and current affairs on the television. With warm regards to you and your family.

Here is piece of news clip from The Statesman

Pran Colourful villain The Statesman 28 March 2005 (on line)
... And Pran: A Biography By Bunny Reuben HarperCollins India 446pp, Rs 500
'Some actors aren't artistes we admire, or chessmen in a strange game.They are us, expressing our brightest and darkest thoughts, enacting agamut of roles ranging from the psychologically complicated to theabsolutely simple," writes Amitabh Bachchan in the foreword to thisbiography of the arch villain of the Indian screen. It is indeed aneye opener to many actors who look up to Pran as an idol.
The book stretches across Pran Sikand's career spanning a period ofalmost six decades. It vividly captures his early days at Lahore, andgoes on to discuss his marriage. As Reuben rightly says, ''Marriagewas a new chapter in Pran's life.'' His destination was Mumbai and histryst with destiny as interesting as that of any leading actor of histimes.
Though Pran acted in a number of films like Yamla Jat, Choudhury andKhandaan in the early forties, he was noticed as an actor in BombayTalkies' Ziddi in 1948. His co-stars were Dev Anand and KaminiKaushal. Reuben aptly traces Pran's career and specially mentionsPran's association with the trio of Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor and DevAnand. Pran shared excellent working as well as personal rapport withall the three stalwarts.
A biography of Pran is incomplete without his association with ShammiKapoor. Reuben does mention at length the screen encounters of ShammiKapoor and Pran. An interesting anecdote in this context is the momentwhen Shammi really punched Pran hard during a fight sequence in TumsaNahin Dekha in 1958. Shammi was very repentant about his action butPran took it very sportingly, stating it was an accident.
In the sixties Pran still ruled the roost and acted in the maximumnumber of films. Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai, Jis Desh Mein Ganga BehtiHai, Brahmachari etc were some of his major releases. Reuben superblyrecounts icon Pahari Sanyal's compliments to Pran after seeing JisDesh Mein Ganga Behti Hai in Kolkata in the early 60s.Pran is a versatile actor who never shied away from accepting offbeatroles. So he experimented with the maximum make-ups and mannerisms.Reuben makes due mention of this aspect of the actor.
Upkar in 1967 totally transformed Pran's image. So did Nanha Farishta.Reuben mentions at length these aspects of Pran's career with rareinterviews of Manoj Kumar and Vijay Anand, who directed Pran in thesuper hit Johny Mera Naam in 1970. Pran himself rates Gulzar'sParichay as one of his best performances.
How Pran along with Amitabh Bachchan made a superhit duo in Zanjeerforms an integral part of the book. Reuben mentions the superbrelations Pran shared with juniors like Amitabh Bachchan and RandhirKapoor.
Though he is terrifying on screen, Pran is a thorough gentleman. He iswarm, generous and very down to earth. Reuben sketches these personalaspects of Pran in detail, providing a rare picture of one of thegenuine immortals of the Hindi film industry.A must read for all serious film buffs. – Ranjan Das Gupta .

Tree of Hindi Films

When DadaSaheb Phalke made first silent film "Raja Harishchandra "in 1913 he would have never imagined that he was planting a sapling which would eventually grow to huge tree in twenty first century and Bombay ( Mumbai) Studios will be churning out as many as 200 films in a year and about one thousand films would be made nation wide in year earlier part of this century.

The success of Hindi Cinema can be attributed to many stalwarts and artistes who worked hard . Several names from Ashok Kumar to present generation of actors come to mind. Balraj Sahni, Devanand, DilipKumar, Motilal, Raj Kapoor, Rajendra Kumar,Pran,Madhubala,Meena Kumari,Nargis,Vyjantimala, Waheeda Rehman became the icon stars in this family tree of Indian Cinema industry and will shine and be part of its history forever. They ruled from 1950s to late 60,s. Seventies saw Rajesh Khanna born as a new shining star. Amitabh Bachchan was to follow with equal and more powerful performances and history continued to be written.Sanjeev Kumar was another actor without whose mention history will remain incomplete.

1980s saw new generation of actors like Amrish Puri,Naseeruddin Shah, Ompuri, Smita Patil ,Shabana Azmi,Nana Patekar coming to limelight of Indian Cinema.

Dilip Kumar in an interview

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1D8_P5p_7qQ

Devanand at 86 premiers Jewel Thief in Aug 2009

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RG5a7xBEI4

Dharmendra

August 10,2009
In 1968 results for Grade 8 were announced for Board exams in Ranchi and our principal Dubyji was thrilled to have 100 percent success for his students. He announced to screen a film for all staff and students . A 35 Mm Projector was brought in and I watched Dharmendra's movie "Devar" . I didn't like the story but was amazed at good looks of Dharam. He became one of my favourites. I didn't watch all his movies but remember not missing a single of his very good films.
From Haqeequt , Satyakam, Guddi , Anpad( Movie was released much before I started admiring him but I saw on rerelease couple of times), Naya Zamana, Chupke Chupke and several others I will write again.

August 8,2009

Watched "Welcome to Sajjanpur" "A must see" for true film lovers. Will write more about film and artistes.

Amitabh Bachchan's Blog

http://bigb.bigadda.com/

Amitabh Bachchan

August 9,2009

Amitabh Bachchan's Blog is worth read and I always appreciate his flow of expression and few lines he quotes from Harivansh Rai Bachchan's Madhushala. They are so inspiring. Click on my resources tab to read about him and his blog. His down the memory lane of 1960's and Karori Mal college days was so much interesting and personally relate to every one in India.

Read his Day 475 of his Blog.

August 10,2009

Heard of Dev Anand 's book 'Romancing With Life and wish One day I will read it.

ISBN: 0670081248

Marilyn French

Women's Room by Marilyn French is interesting Book

Tare Zamin Par

After watching Taare Zameen Par no one can say that Indian films have now been maturing to new heights of quality and realistic cinema. All credit will obviously go to Aamir Khan who in his first directorial and home production venture has created a niche for himself and will go in the history of indian cinema as one of select band of film personalities. His this work will hopefully bring in great acclodes and will be praised by all. His need to be congratulated for this masterpiece he has created. Undoubtedly child artiste Darsheel Safary will be a new star and will be remembered for his acting in years to come.

It was not so much out of conscious choice and pre-planning than because of compulsion of circumstances that actor Aamir Khan to become the director of Taare Zameen Par .Aamir had never made a secret of his desire to turn director someday. But even he did not anticipate that his desire would materialize sooner than expected.
It all started when Aamir’s good friend Amol Gupte approached him with a subject that caught Aamir’s imagination. After having worked with children for many years, Amol had penned a story that Aamir found “deeply touching and enlightening”.So fascinated was Aamir by the subject that he decided to produce it and act in it as well. Amol took the role of writer and director. He also found the cute kid Darsheel Safary from Shiamak Davar’s troupe to play the child protagonist in the film.Everything was going smooth and the film’s shooting began. But one week into the shooting Aamir saw the rushes of the film and he was disappointed. He felt the movie was not turning out as good on celluloid as it was on paper.Creative difference sprang between Aamir and Amol. It was time for a serious meeting.Aamir says he frankly expressed his reservations to Amol in the meeting and offered to back out of the project. Without bringing their egos in between, the two decided that the director’s baton must pass on to someone else.But there was one more problem. Aamir says finding a new director at that point in time meant delaying the project for eight months. This was not feasible because in that period the child artist Darsheel Safary would have grown older.Says Aamir: “Amol had suggested that I take over as the film’s director. For a whole night I thought deeply about it. It was a very tough decision. But the next morning I was on the sets as the director.”Aamir re-shot many of the scenes that Amol had already canned. The actor did face some initial difficulty in his new role. But gradually as the shooting progressed, Aamir became more deft at direction. Amol, who was relieved from directorial responsibilities, was still part of the project, as a creative director and writer. But it was Aamir who was calling the shots.