Chris gayle smashes RCB to finals of IPL4

West indies player christopher gayle smashes 89 from 47 balls last nyt in their semi final match against mumbai indians...

Because of his knock mumbai indians made a way back to their homes.
He gave a lightening start in earlier overs of their innings!!! Everybody thought that gayle would make century faster than any batsman in this format of cricket.
But later on gayle lost his wicket before he making a century, However because of his knock RCB could be able to make 185/4 in their 1st innings, this is the best total by royal challengers bengaluru with mumbai indians by bettering their last score of 166 runs.
By this chris gayle has aggregated an average of 76.00 runs in his 11 matches of this tournament, he made 608 runs which is the third huge total in IPL history.
Gayle has made a remarkable strike rate of 184.80 by kicking down the previous best of 176.66 by dashing virender sehwag.
Gayle also extended his six's upto 44 just in 11 matches of the tournament.

Skipper daniel vettori also gave a splendid support to gayle by his remarkable bowling performance with figures of  4-0-19-3.


Which made RCB to fight with CSK in their final match tonight.

Item songs should also get National Awards says Katrina kaif

Katrina kaif thinks there should be a National Award category for item numbers too; 
says 'Sheila Ki Jawani' would definitely win...  
 


The National Awards have been talked about quite a lot in the filmi circuit since they were announced, with the inevitable dissection of whether this/that film should have won or not won, who deserved it, who did not, at all... But while the chairperson of the jury, JP Dutta, might be defending the choice of,
Salman Khan starrer "Dabangg" as the winner of the best film providing wholesome entertainment, here's one question that the jury wouldn't have thought it would face in a million years. 

The question was raised by none other than Bollywood's Kat, even though it didn't look like she knew much about who had won. At a recent event in Mumbai, when questioned about her reaction to the news of "Dabangg" winning, she apparently looked ignorant as she said, "Oh is it ? I didn't know!" But then she gave her congratulations to the team, but added that "Rajneeti" too was a prime contender for the spot! But that wasn't all, for Kat went on to add that the jury should start a new category for item songs, and that her sizzling " Sheila Ki jawani" should definitely win it. So while Katrina might not have known that Sallu's film had won, we think she would definitely like to know why item numbers should not be in the reckoning for an award. Are the jury members listening? 

‘Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides’ works only for Depp

Captain Jack Sparrow is back! But not with a bang! The fourth instalment of the ‘Pirate…’series lacks the punch and the excitement that the first two parts had. Although the shortest of all the films of the series (its two hours and sixteen minutes) the movie drags and leaves the viewer quite disappointed by the end. The edge of the seat fun that an adventure film of this league is supposed to have is unfortunately missing.


Jack Sparrow (Johny Depp) remains the same. Funny, outrageous and even silly romantic but that’s perhaps the only thing going for the film which lacks a proper plot.

The story goes something like this; Sparrow is forced to help pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane) and find the fountain of youth. The fountain of youth is much sought after and is also in the top priority for the former pirate Barbossa, played by Geoffrey Rush.

Spanish beauty Penelope Cruz plays Sparrow’s ex-flame, who could be Blackbeard’s daughter but one is not certain about it.

With such an amazing cast, the director could have done wonders to the script and the film. But sadly, only few scenes have that trademark Sparrow humour or the style that the series is known for.

Go for this movie only if you are a diehard fan of Depp’s Sparrow avatar because he is the only saving grace of the film.

Jason Statham gifts stunt pads to his girlfriend Whiteley

In a bid to protect his girlfriend from getting bruises, `Transporter` star Jason Statham has gifted
Rosie Huntington Whiteley with special stunt pads.

The 43-year-old actor bought the special pads after Whiteley, 24, who gained popularity after replacing Megan Fox in the upcoming film `Transformers 3`, returned home covered with bruises, reported Daily Star.

The former Victoria Secret`s model was not prepared for performing stunts in the third installment of the sci-fi film.

"I came (home) from filming covered in bruises... He was like, `You`ve got to wear your stunt pads!` He sent me razor-thin gel stunt pads... `cause the regular ones make you look like a football player," said Whiteley.

The British model was recently voted the sexiest woman in the world by readers of both men`s magazines `Maxim` and `FHM`.

Directed by Michael Bay, `Transformers: Dark of The Moon`, which also stars Shia LaBeouf and Tyrese Gibson, is scheduled to hit the theatres on 1 July.

Dayanidhi Maran saw DMK’s downfall in 2008

As the DMK leadership struggles to come to terms with its electoral debacle in Tamil Nadu and Kanimozhi’s arrest in the 2G scam, reports on Monday said that the Dravidian party’s downfall was predicted by one of its top leaders way back in 2008.

According to a report published by a leading daily, which cited secret US diplomatic cables accessed by WikiLeaks, DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi's grandnephew and  Member of Parliament (MP) Dayanidhi Maran had predicted the beginning of the gloomy days for his party as early as in February 2008.

As per reports, the young MP was seriously worried about DMK’s negative image and was extremely critical of its ‘Santa Clause politics’.

In a free-wheeling chat with the American Consul General in February 2008, the DMK leader admitted candidly that corruption was badly affecting the image of his party and talked about people’s growing apathy and rising anti-incumbency factor in Tamil Nadu.


On February 23, 2008, Consul General David T Hopper, in a secret cable [142702: confidential], informed the US State Department that Maran had predicted DMK and its alliance partners would lose half of their (Lok Sabha) seats in Tamil Nadu if no corrective measures are taken.

Referring to people’s growing apathy towards the Karunanidhi government, Maran endorsed the general perception that DMK is a corrupt party, by saying, “When people get into power they lose concentration and start focusing on making money.”

The cable, which was sent to the State Department by the US Embassy in New Delhi, revealed that a meeting took place between the Political Officer at the Chennai Consulate-General and Maran on February 15, 2008.

The meeting between the two was the first since Maran was sacked as the Union IT and Telecommunications Minister in May 2007, following a dispute with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Karunanidhi.

Maran, who was extremely critical of DMK’s politics of providing freebies, was quoted as telling the US official, “The problem when you come to power by promising people free TVs,” he is quoted as saying during the meeting, “is that people soon forget the TVs you gave them and then ask ‘what are you doing for me now’?”

In the secret cable, the US official reported that the estranged DMK MP, who was later reinstated in the Union Cabinet as Textiles Minister, was “very downbeat” about the United Progressive Alliance's electoral prospects in the 15th Lok Sabha election.

Maran was of the view that the UPA was likely to face a tough time in the southern states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

He predicted that UPA’s electoral losses would stem from the failure of DMK and Congress in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu respectively. However, the DMK MP was all praise for Rahul Gandhi and argued that Congress party needed to name him as its prime ministerial candidate for the 2009 Lok Sabha election.

I’ll go to Cannes every year now Says Minissha Lamba

The 16 hours of detention at the Mumbai airport for allegedly carrying undeclared jewellery were harrowing but actress Minissha Lamba says the authorities were “very, very, friendly” and the time was spent chatting about various things, including her experience at Cannes.
“We had a very lively 16-hour session,” said the “Well Done Abba” actress.
“What can I say? I had the choice of either sitting and crying or trying to make the best of a bizarre situation. Guess what I chose to do? I took a chill-pill,” she told IANS.
Minissha, who had told the customs authorities that the jewellery was given to her to wear at Cannes by Anmol Jewellers, describes her detention on May 18 as “a molehill blown up into a mountain”.

Excerpts from an interview:

Q: What really happened?

A: It was just a minor discrepancy in my papers for the jewellery. I’m just so shocked by the monstrous proportions that the incident acquired.

Q: Is it true you were detained the whole night at the airport?

A: I was detained for 16 hours. That, if I may say so, was completely unnecessary in a case like this. However, if my papers were not in order because of a minor technicality then the authorities were totally within their right to detain me. We’ve to go by the book. No complaints about it.

Q: Did you really have undeclared diamonds worth Rs.40 lakh?

A: Definitely not that much. The value was much much less. I can’t tell you how much because it involves a legality. I had the paperwork to authenticate it.

Q: So why did they detain you?

A: A minor glitch.I don’t want to go into who was responsible for it.

Q: Were the airport authorities civil with you?

A: Very very friendly. They served me the most amazing food and were constantly cracking jokes to ease my nervousness. I ended up regaling them with my experiences at Cannes. They talked about their experiences with celebrities. We had a very lively 16-hour session.

Q: Did you have a relative accompanying you?

A: You know I am a very independent girl. I didn’t even want to inform my parents about it when it happened. In any case my phone was taken from me. I wasn’t allowed to use it. I didn’t want to cause any worry for my parents. I didn’t know it the incident had already gone out.

Q: Was it harrowing?

A: Yes, because a molehill was blown up into a mountain. There I was, I had just landed from Cannes, jetlagged and groggy. I just wanted to get home and sleep. Little did I know what was in store for me. Life is full of surprises. Earlier during the trip I lost my baggage at the Nice airport.

Q: Kissne ki yeh ‘Nice’ harkat (Who did it at Nice?)?

A: (laughs) I’ve gone through so much during the trip. I told god if you’ve more in store bring it in now, let’s get it out of the way.

Q: So how did you manage to dress so well at Cannes?

A: The baggage was lost on my way back. Thank god for that. And I didn’t lose too many valuables.

Q: How was Cannes?

A: I had gone to attend the premiere of the new Woody Allen film “Midnight in Paris”. I couldn’t meet him. But his management told me that they’re looking seriously at Indian cinema. I met a lot of people from the international movie community.

Q: Has the controversy shaken you?

A: I think I got into the controversy by default. This is the accidental controversy in my life. It’s one of those life-experiences.

Q: Looks like Cannes doesn’t suit you?

A: On the contrary the experience has made me a stronger human being. I think I’ll go every year now.
- IANS
source : http://www.bollywoodworld.com
 

Brad Pitt's Movie Wins Hounorable Prize in Cannes film festival

As the 64th Cannes Film Festival came to a close Sunday, its jury awarded the top prize to a movie that split the critics: director Terrence Malick's The Tree of life, starring Brad Pitt and Sean Penn.
ury president Robert De Niro made the announcement, while the reclusive Malick was not in the French town to accept his Palme d'Or (Golden Palm).
Other winners Sunday evening included Kirsten Dunst as best actress for controversial director Lars Von Trier's Melancholia. Earlier this week, the Danish filmmaker had been banned from the festival for rambling remarks he made at a press conference about how he sympathized with Hitler.

Dunst alluded to her director's outburst during her acceptance speech Sunday, saying, "What a week this has been."

French actor Jean Dujardin was named best actor for a popular silent, black-and-white comedy, The Artist – to be seen in the U.S. later this year. Best director was Nicolas Winding Refn, for Drive, which stars Ryan Gosling.
Other members of the Cannes jury included Jude Law and Uma Thurman.  
source :
http://www.people.com

Daniel Craig To Act In Remake Of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

English actor Daniel Craig, who played the role of James Bond in Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, is going to star in the US remake of 2009 Swedish film The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.  

The original movie was made from a novel with the same title, which was written by Stieg Larsson.

British actress Carey Mulligan will essay the role of Lisbeth Salander, the titular girl. Craig will be playing the journalist Mikael Blomkvist, who will be assisted by Salander in the investigations.


The English version of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo will be directed by David Fincher and the script is penned by Steve Zaillian. The movie is likely to be released in theaters by next year.

Craig will be seen investigating the mystery of a missing girl, which leads to a string of decades-old murders.

The 42-year old actor has taken up the role following the indefinite delaying of the latest James Bond movie.
The writer of the novel Larsson died in 2004, one year prior to the publishing of the first of his Millennium trilogy crime novels.
In his native Sweden, the series of his books was made into film with Michael Nyqvist playing the journalist Mikael Blomkvist and Noomi Rapace playing the computer hacker Salander.

Bollywood Celebs At Cannes 2011

It's always a proud moment to spot some of our Bollywood stars at international film festivals.

At Cannes this year, the Hindi film industry will etch its place in history by showcasing the documentary titled Bollywood: The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.

The piece, which has been co-produced by Shekhar Kapur and UTV and directed by
Rakesh Omprakash Mehra and Jeff Zimbalist, will embody the most memorable moments in the history of Indian musical films.

The film also incorporates inputs from actors and directors, namely Amitabh Bachchan, Dev Anand, 
Shammi kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Madhuri Dixit, Aishwarya rai Bachan and Deepika Padukone.
Aishwarya rai who has been sizzling at the Cannes film Festival every year has competition from none other then Deepika Padukone this year.

-Justin Bieber Wants To Make Women's Feel Good-

Justin Bieber continues to grow his line of truly inexplicable beauty products.  He’s just announced that he will soon launch a women’s perfume – a “fruity” fragrance called Someday.   Why???  He explained:

“Let’s be real, the way a girl smells is very important to a guy!  I have such a deep connection with my fans, so creating a fragrance that I personally love is another way I can bring them closer to my world.”

Come on, let’s be honest.  What he wants his fans to bring to his world is cash.  That’s the only reason for the Biebs to lend his name to a perfume.  (Or a nail polish, for that matter.)  So you’d best believe he’s not stopping there – up next for Justin:  a body lotion and hair products.
source: http://backseatcuddler.com/2011/05/21/justin-bieber-wants-to-make-you-smell-good/

Priyanka made Bebo wait !

Kareena Kapoor drove down all the way from Pune to Mumbai for shooting her televised act for an award ceremony. What should have ended in a few hours took them forever, thanks to Priyanka Chopra.

Bebo finished with her make-up and hair and arrived on the stage to see that it was already occupied by Priyanka Chopra. She had to wait for four hours before she could actually shoot her performance.

A source present at the awards revealed, “Kareena landed at Yash Raj Studios around midnight; she found that the stage was occupied by Priyanka. She waited patiently for sometime. On spotting her, PC came down from the stage and told her that she could not give the stage until 1 am (although Kareena was assigned the stage at 12 am).”

Priyanka Chopra continued to rehearse till 4 am, by that time, the exhausted Kareena had left for home.

The next morning, Kareena asked her manager Zahid to cancel the shooting (with Salman for Bodyguard), which was scheduled on Saturday in Pune and then came back to the studio to finish her song.

Normally, the fiery Bebo would have flared up because she was kept waiting for more than four hours. Although, she was smarting with humiliation, she maintained her cool. Later, she gave a call to the organizers and gave her piece.

They explained it to her that because of some technical problems, Priyanka’s act took a longer time.

Priyanka Chopra’s spokesperson said, “Priyanka was not aware that Bebo had to wait for hours. Not that I am aware of. Priyanka had a long act with many changes.”

Bebo remained unavailable for comment...

Making betting legal in India would "make the fight against corruption easier" : ICC

ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat believes making betting legal in the Indian sub-continent would help in monitoring the bookmakers and also "make the fight against corruption easier".

"If the industry was regulated you could actually work with them, monitor them better and everything would be legal so there is reason to go underground. So our view is if it was to be regulated it would make the fight against corruption much easier for us," Lorgat said.

Corruption in the game had come to light from time to time with the latest being the spot-fixing scandal which rocked international cricket last August in England, where three Pakistani cricketers were found guilty of being involved in the scam.

Lorgat said the ICC is now toying with the concept of 'mystery shopper' to ensure that such an incident doesn't occur again.

"We have a review ongoing at the moment, an external review, to see what we have learnt out of the last decade of this anti-corruption and security unit. We certainly don't want a repeat of last year's incident," he said.

"Having said that we thought it might be worthwhile to have an independent review to see what sort of recommendations or suggestions could come out that could improve the operations or the fight against corruption.

"One of the suggestions being mooted, is the concept of a mystery shopper. Meaning that we may well have people posing as a bookmaker, and approaching players to see if they report back to the anti-corruption and security unit, which is an obligation they have got," he added.

Asked what sort of reaction the ICC have received from the players on the mystery shopper issue, Lorgat said, "Well the players I haven't heard much from but I'm conscious of the fact that the players association, FICA, initially their response was not very supportive because they felt it was some sort of entrapment.

"But it's early days it was just a thought we had, let's see what the recommendations are and if we think it's a worthwhile idea we will engage with the players and the association to see if it's implementable."

Lorgat said he was confident that the players would support the idea.

"Absolutely, I think those are things we need to support. I'm confident that the majority of players are honest and play the game in the right spirit and they would have no reservations in supporting such a move," lorgat said.

source added: http://cricblitz.blogspot.com/search/label/India

I would not be returning as a full-time coach for Rajasthan Royals : Shane Warne

Australian spin legend Shane Warne, who played his final competitive game today, made it clear he won't be returning as a full-time coach for the Rajasthan Royals or any other team next season but said he was interested in a consultancy role.

"This is my last game, never say never but at this stage of my life I don't see myself playing a game again. 

I am certainly not coming back as full time coach," Warne said after bringing down curtains on his two-decade long career with a 10-wicket win over Mumbai indians.

"I won't be 100% in the entire tournament."
I may come in as consultant may be ten days prior or some time in between.

If they are happy I will be here for a week or so. 
Said legendary leg spinner.

CHRISTOPHER GAYLE from windies in IPL

Chris Gayle has played some terrific knocks in the IPL 4.  Two centuries and some terrific hitting.  Chris Gayle has scored 328 runs in just 5 matches whereas other batsmen have scored lesser runs in more games.
His 37 runs of one over is a new 20-20 record.

At an average around 65 runs a match, which is called a splendid performance by any batsman during this IPL season.

His achievements in the IPL 4 are very commendable especially  since his rift with the WICB became obvious  as he had chosen to play the IPL as opposed to signing the retainer contract with WICB.

But anyway his future remains uncertain as the WICB has pointed out that no player is bigger than the team. The IPL may give these players a lot of money, but playing for ones nation gives one pride and a sense of accomplishment.

-Titanic to Be Released Again in 3D-

Men around the world, start preparing your excuse for April 6, 2012 already.

On that date,  Titanic will be hit big screens once again, this time in 3D. The release coincides with the 100th anniversary of when the doomed ship set sail.

"There's a whole generation that's never seen Titanic as it was meant to be seen, on the big screen," says director James Cameron. "And this will be Titanic as you've never seen it before, digitally remastered at 4K and painstakingly converted to 3D. With the emotional power intact and the images more powerful than ever, this will be an epic experience for fans and newcomers alike."

Ginnifer Goodwin Breaks Up With Her Fiancé!

Remember a while back when we did a post on Justin Long setting up his friend Joey Kern with his other friend Ginnifer Goodwin?
And that it seemed like he was the best match-maker ever because it was a whirlwind and they eventually got engaged??
Well, however we're sad to report that they split, and their wedding is off.
Apparently they "broke up a few days ago."
Sorry, Justin! So close! Keep working on that matchmaking formula because you almost had it!
Ginnifer and Joey, hope everything is okay!!!

Mandira Bedi shows off her new born baby bump in a photo shoot

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Television anchor and actress Mandira Bedi, who has been married to Raj Kaushal for 12 years now, is expecting her first child and she is excited about it. The news has it that she has showed off her baby bump in a photo shoot exclusively done for People Magazine.

It is said that Mandira has revealed her new experience to the magazine. She revealed that she has been delaying pregnancy all these years because of work but nobody pressurised her to have a baby. She added that pregnancy has given her lots of bad days but thinks that motherhood is a beautiful phase that every woman should experience.

She has given an exclusive interview and photo shoot for People Magazine, which is ready to hit the stands very soon.

Priyanka Chopra blocks abusive comments from her followers on twitter

Priyanka Chopra has achieved something that even her male counterparts haven't. She is the first Bollywood celebrity to have a million followers on the micro-blogging site Twitter. She stays connected to her fans and followers by updating her page on a regular basis. Of course, she has to block abusive comments from her followers.

Priyanka said that she feels good to have crossed a million mark on the micro-blogging site. She loves to interact with her fans and read tweets from her followers. But not all tweets makes  good. She revealed that she does get abusive tweets which she blocks.

No wonder Priyanka has thousands of fans around the world! She knows how to reach their hearts!

Lady Gaga to act in a Bollywood film ?

Many music supporters in India get prepared to move as the globe popular pop vocalist Lady Gaga is about to come to India and B-town in the near future. She’s famous among Indians as musical pair Salim-Sulaiman have launched a desi edition of her latest sole Born This Way.Sulaiman even says, “And so it is finally up and I can inform every person did the desi remix of “born this way” the lady gaga sole.”For the inexperienced, Lady Gaga is a comparatively most recent American pop singer and song writer sensation who’s become popular worldwide with her tracks.

Lady Gaga is happy with this particular reports and she says I worked with several Indian Makers on   

“BORN THIS WAY” to show all the small monsters in India that I appreciate you!”

What next? Lady Gaga in a bollywood film?

Sohail Khan to produce "Sher Khan" starring Salman Khan

After co-producing Ready, Sohail Khan will start yet another project with Salman Khan called Sher Khan. The film will have Sallu playing a lion-hearted 'He-Man' who lives life for the world.Sher Khan will be a treat for kids and will boast of some mind-blowing special effects.

Telugu writer Kona Venkat, who wrote the original Telugu version of Ready, is currently working on the script of Sher Khan. While Salman has been finalised for the lead role, the female lead is yet to be finalised.
co-stars will be announced shortly said the producer.
 

Did Yash Raj Films first offer "Ek Tha Tiger" to Shah Rukh Khan?

Yash Raj Films (YRF) probably made one of the biggest announcements last week when they signed  

Salman Khan along with Katrina Kaif for Kabir Khan's directorial venture Ek Tha Tiger. The news was indeed big as it is the first time Salman is working with Yash Raj Films.

However, not many people know that the same film had earlier been offered to YRF favourite and Salman's rival Shah Rukh Khan who unfortunately couldn't take it up due to date issues. King Khan in a recent interview has confirmed the same and has said that he doesn't have any regrets that YRF have now gone ahead and signed Salman for the project. However, it remains to be seen if Sallu was aware of this fact before signing the project.

Suriya and Shruti Haasan to sing in Chinese?

 Their film 7aam Arivu, set in China, will have a Mandarin number composed by Harris Jayaraj

 

Director AR Murugadoss’ 7aam Arivu is a much anticipated film for various reasons. It marks the debut of Kamal Haasan’s daughter Shruti Haasan in Kollywood. This Suriya-starrer revolves around the character of a Buddhist monk and is set in China.
Music composer Harris Jayaraj, known for innovation and uniqueness depending on the theme of the film, has recorded a Chinese song for the film, voiced by Mandarin singer Hau. Sources say Hau has given splendid vocals and tried to sing in Tamil as well. Since a portion of the film dates 2,000 years ago, the song is said to be featured in that era.
source added: http://www.bollywoodlife.com/south-gossip/suriya-and-shruti-to-sing-in-chinese/

Tamil films shine at the National Awards!

 

Rajinikanth’s son-in-law Dhanush has bagged the Best Actor award

Tamil films swept the 58th National Film Awards, announced on May 19 in New Delhi. Awards in most of the prominent categories have been bagged by Tamil cinema.
While Dhanush bagged the Best Actor award for his mindblowing acting in Aadukalam, Saranya Ponvannan has been selected as the Best Actress for her realistic portrayal of a mother who dotes on her son in Thenmerkku Paruvakaattru. She shared the award with actor Mitali Jagtap Paradharand for the Marathi film Baboo Band Baaja.
Apart from Dhanush, Aadukalam was also adjudged the best in five other categories. Vetrimaran has been awarded Best Director for a Commercial Film and Best Screenplay Writer, Dinesh for Best Choreography, Kishore for Best Editing, Shivram Karanth Award for Best Film.

Superstar Rajinikanth’s Endhiran (Robot) was also honoured with Best Special Effects Award and Best Production Design Award.
Ace lyricist Vairamuth who has been selected for the sixth time receives Best Lyricist Award for Thenmerkku Paruvakaattru. Incidentally, the movie also won Best Film in a Regional category.
Thambi Ramaiah has won the Best Supporting Actor for his enchanting role in Mynaa.

Amrita Rao ready to give up acting for love!

 

Amrita Rao, back in the limelight after quite a gap, justifies the ‘image change’ stories and confesses that she could do anything for love

Your last two releases –Victory and Shortkut – were in 2009. What kept you away from the silver screen for two years?
I had signed two films in 2009, to be executed in 2010. An AB Corp film – The Legend of Kunal – to be directed by Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi (Pinjar fame) and a Tips film, to be directed by Ken Ghosh. Both these projects had to be stopped from taking off because of major budget constraints and the recession. So, in 2010 I was shooting for only one film, Love U… Mr. Kalakaar!, as against three films. That’s why you didn’t see any release in 2010 and you will see one in 2011.
It must have been tough on you…
I think it was an overall low phase for the industry. Usually, I shoot for two films and maybe have one or two releases in a year. Though there was a time in 2006 when I was just shooting for one film, Vivah. Certain things are beyond your control. But you do get a little saddened if things that are meant to be are not taking off because you have already started planning in your mind. But I guess family support and positive people around you help you sail through any kind of situation.
Love U… Mr. Kalakaar! is the story of a man who goes to unexpected lengths for love. How far would you go for love?
I could bet my life.
Can you give up acting for love?
I will. I feel that a relationship is the strongest support system to any human being. I truly believe that whether in the form of your family member or a marital relationship or a life partner, it is a very strong support system. Things like career keep fluctuating and changing, and don’t really wait for you. You should know where to strike the right balance.
You’ve been in Bollywood for over a decade. What do you look for when signing a film?
Because I don’t have a godfather and I have virtually sustained on the merit of my performance in each movie, I am very careful that the project should have at least one strong factor, either in the form of the producer, or the director or the hero. Because these three things are most important while structuring a movie. I think the place for the heroine comes much later, and that is the fact.
You started out doing fun roles but after Vivah have stuck to performance-driven roles. Is it a conscious decision?
You know, you can never sit on taken decisions or measure each step in such a precarious industry. I did not sit and plan a Vivah. It came my way and likewise Welcome to Sajjanpur fell into my lap. I never really planned these kinds of roles, or the shift from working for a Sooraj Barjatya to a Shyam Benegal. I am just going with the flow. Fortunately, quality work has come my way and within my parameters of comfort level.
What works as an advantage can sometimes also be a disadvantage. For instance, your innocent, petite looks suits certain types of roles. As an actor, do you find it limiting?
I would say that’s my greatest strength and my USP. I don’t see it as a limitation at all. Like I said, I have been very fortunate that perhaps I am a niche actress today. I recognise myself like that. I have a certain image and perception that is typical to me and nobody else. I am not a part of the crowd. If they want me, they want me and that’s a huge compliment. Perhaps, if the work that is offered to a lot of other actresses would be offered to me, I wouldn’t have done it, as I wouldn’t have been comfortable doing it.
Speaking of uncomfortable roles, what kind of roles would you not do?
Comfort level is something you can’t measure… (Long pause) Maybe I would not be able to pull off a role like Saat Khoon Maaf because I cannot relate to that character.
A lot of young actresses like Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor entered after you and are doing bigger projects with bigger stars, and are on a brand endorsing spree. Does it bother you?
No. Like I said, we cannot compare ourselves with others because when I came into the industry I had so many benefits which perhaps a girl from a non-film background would not enjoy. I don’t compare myself with others. I don’t think of any missed opportunity as a loss.
In between there were rumours that you are undergoing an image change; from a pretty good-girl-next-door to a sensuous diva. Comment.
Very honestly, I think that perception came from my movie Shortkut. I found it a bit amusing because in that film– even in terms of clothes or scenes- I did nothing different from what I did in Ab Ke Baras, Deewar or Pyare Mohan. Main Hoon Na again was very contemporary. But I guess the whole perception of Vivah became so synonymous with Amrita Rao that maybe they forgot about my other films. And suddenly Shortkut became a makeover. So, I am glad that under the same banner I have got a chance to do something more contemporary and something I can most relate to in Love U… Mr. Kalakaar!.

List of winners: 58th National Film Awards

National Film Awards

New Delhi: The prestigious National Film Awards were announced on Thursday. The jury members submitted the list of awardees to the Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting Ambika Soni. The feature films jury was headed by JP Dutta and the non-feature films jury was headed by AK Bir and Best Writing on Cinema jury was headed by Ashok Vajpeyi.
Here's the complete list of winners at the 58th National Film Awards:
FEATURE FILMS

BEST FEATURE FILM: Adaminte Makan Abu (Malayalam)
Producer: Salim Ahamed
Director: Salim Ahamed
Swarna Kamal and Rs 2,50,000
For a simple yet evocative articulation of humanist values that frees matters of faith from the constrictions of narrow parochialism. The concerns of Abu, son of Adam, are timeless and universal in their scope.
INDIRA GANDHI AWARD FOR BEST DEBUT FILM OF A DIRECTOR: Baboo Band Baaja (Marathi)
Producer: Nita Jadhav
Director: Rajesh Pinjani
Swarna Kamal and Rs 1,25,000
For a riveting tale of a father reluctant to educate his son, a mother who fiercely believes in its liberatory value, and the son who is caught in the crossfire, 'Baboo' is an outstanding debut project by director.
AWARD FOR BEST POPULAR FILM PROVIDING WHOLESOME ENTERTAINMENT: Dabangg (Hindi)
Producer: Arbaaz Khan, Malaika Arora Khan and Dhilin Mehta
Director: Abhinav Singh Kashyap
Swarna Kamal and Rs 2,00,000
Answers the need of cinegoers for entertainment rooted in Indian soil.
NARGIS DUTT AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE FILM ON NATIONAL INTEGRATION: Moner Manush (Bengali)
Producer: Gautam Kundu
Director: Goutam Ghose
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,50,000
For celebrating the union of the human spirit through the life and song of Sufi poets in the Baul tradition.
BEST FILM ON SOCIAL ISSUES: Champions (Marathi)
Producer: Aishwarya Narkar
Director: Ramesh More
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,50,000
In a world of deprivation, the thirst for an education surpasses the hunger for food amongst two young brothers fending for each other and their mother.
BEST FILM ON ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION/PRESERVATION: Bettada Jeeva (Kannada)
Producer: Basantkumar Patil
Director: P Sheshadri
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,50,000
An old couple steeped in the soil of their environment yearn for the return of their son while nurturing the growth of their young plantation against all odds.
BEST CHILDREN'S FILM: Hejjegalu (Kannada)
Producer: Basantkumar Patil
Director: PR Ramadas Naidu
Swarna Kamal and Rs 1,50,000
A little girl cheerfully takes on the challenge to preserve the fabric of her family.
BEST DIRECTION: Vetrimaran for Aadukalam (Tamil)
Swarna Kamal and Rs 2,50,000
For a gritty tale of love, jealousy and betrayal in the midst of bloodsport and violence, in the manner of realistic cinema.
BEST ACTOR: Dhanush for Aadukalam (Tamil) and Salim Kumar for Adaminte Makan Abu (Malayalam)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
Two riveting performances that fuse character and actor into one: To Dhanush for the raw, nuanced portrayal of a cocky young man who learns lessons about life the hard way. To Salim for a deep, restrained performance of a simple man with an unshakeable belief in his quest for salvation.
BEST ACTRESS: Mitalee Jagtap Varadkar for Baboo Band Baaja (Marathi) and Saranya Ponvannan for Thenmerkku Paruvakkatru (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
The picture of two mothers whose concern for bettering the lives of their children in the face of untold hardship: As a mother who strives to realise through her son her dreams of a better future. As a fiercely combative single mother who shields her son to the point of sacrifice.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: J Thambi Ramaiah for Mynaa (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For a heart-warming performance as a policeman who discovers his humanity in the process of capturing an escaped fugitive.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Sukumari for Namma Gramam (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For a sensitive portrayal of an aged widow who challenges orthodoxy when restrictions are placed upon her widowed granddaughter.
BEST CHILD ARTIST: Harsh Mayar for I am Kalam (Hindi), Shantanu Ranganekar and Machindra Gadkar for Champions (Marathi) and Vivek Chabukswar for Baboo Band Baaja (Marathi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000 (Shared)
Four actors for expressing with charm and heartbreak the world of the child: For performing with bright, shining eyes and an urchin smile, the razor sharp spirit of a survivor who dreams of excelling. For two brothers bonded by blood and responsibility battling for survival in the underbelly of a heartless city. For capturing the indomitable spirit of a young village boy who is hungry to learn in an environment that closes all doors on him.
BEST MALE PLAYBACK SINGER: Suresh Wadkar for Mee Sindhutai Sapkal (Marathi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For rendering soulful lyrics in a resonant voice soaked in emotion with a purity of musical expression and spiritual empathy.
BEST FEMALE PLAYBACK SINGER: Rekha Bhardwaj for Ishqiya (Hindi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For a sensual and evocative rendering of a heart longing for the beloved.
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: Madhu Ambat for Adaminte Makan Abu (Malayalam)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For the visual poetry that augments and reinforces the concern of the narrative and for unfolding the infinite vistas of nascent digital technology in the visual medium.
BEST SCREENPLAY: (Original): Vetrimaran for Aadukalam (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For its kaleidoscopic variety that uses realism, tradition and contemporaneity, soaked in local flavour on an infinite canvas.
BEST SCREENPLAY: (Adapted): Anant Mahadevan and Sanjay Pawar for Mee Sindhutai Sapkal (Marathi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For retaining the concerns and values of a biographical account while translating it into the cinematic medium and honouring the essence of the original.
BEST SCREENPLAY: (Dialogues): Sanjay Pawar for Mee Sindhutai Sapkal (Marathi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For bringing to life the textures of various characters through articulating their emotion and thought process.
BEST AUDIOGRAPHY: Kaamod Kharade (Location Sound Recordist) for Ishqiya (Hindi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For capturing the soft nuances and variations of the artists' voices and location ambience in a sensorial manner.
BEST AUDIOGRAPHY: Subhadeep Sengupta (Sound Designer) for Chitrasutram (Malayalam)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For the use of various sound effects along with existing ambience to impart a subliminal experience in this abstract work.
BEST AUDIOGRAPHY: Debajit Changmai (Re-recordist of the final mixed track) for Ishqiya (Hindi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For merging voices, location ambience, background music and other sound effects to create a near-tactile experience that is both real and artistic.
BEST EDITING: TE Kishore for Aadukalam (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For the subliminal impact created by the use of montage so as to bring to the fore thematic concerns of the narrative in a holistic manner.
BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN: Sabu Cyril for Enthiran (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal Rs 50,000
For the style and finesse realised in the creation of a set design that is coherent with the futuristic visual style of the narrative.
BEST COSTUME DESIGNER: Indrans Jayan for Namma Gramam (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For realising effectively the texture of a period in the history of modern India through miniscule attention to detailing.
BEST MAKE-UP ARTIST: Vikram Gaikwad for Moner Manush (Bengali)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For the admirable detailing and remarkable consistency achieved in the etching of the characters across an extensive time span.
BEST MUSIC DIRECTION (Songs): Vishal Bhardwaj for Ishqiya (Hindi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For blending rustic flavour with the Indian classical tradition
BEST MUSIC DIRECTION (Background Score): Issak Thomas Kottakapally for Adaminte Makan Abu (Malayalam)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For minimalistic use of appropriate background score to nurture the essence of the narrative.
BEST LYRICS: Vairamuthu for Thenmerkku Paruvakkatru (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For giving a meaningful expression to the narrative through contextual amplification of the emotion.
SPECIAL JURY AWARD: Mee Sindhutai Sapkal (Marathi)
Producer: Bindiya and Sachin Khanolkar
Director: Anant Narayan Mahadevan
Rajat Kamal and Rs 2,00,000
For a powerful cinematic presentation of an epic journey of a living character, an abandoned woman who refused to become a victim and in the process not only transformed her own life but also the lives of many others.
BEST SPECIAL EFFECTS: V Srinivas M Mohan for Enthiran (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For bringing of age a spectrum of visual special effects in Indian cinema and creating a space for the practitioners of this art form on the global map.
BEST CHOREOGRAPHY: Dinesh Kumar for Aadukalam (Tamil)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
For the native charm and innovative design in the art of choreography that creates an effervescent energy in the spectator.
BEST FEATURE FILM IN EACH OF THE LANGUAGE SPECIFIED IN THE SCHEDULE VIII OF THE CONSTITUTION
BEST ASSAMESE FILM: Jetuka Patar Dare
Producer: Md. Noorul Sultan
Director: Jadumoni Dutta Rajat Kamal
Rs 1,00,000
For a heart-warming portrayal of the rural landscape with an emphasis on the need for self-reliance in the process of development.
BEST BENGALI FILM: Ami Aadu
Producer: New Theatres Pvt. Ltd
Director: Sonmath Gupta Rajat Kamal
Rs 1,00,000
For the subtle portrayal of an endearing love story in the time of cultural conflicts. It is a sincere attempt to present the personal tragedy of the emigrant commoner caught in the crossfire of international wars.
BEST HINDI FILM: Do Dooni Char
Producer: Arindam Chaudhuri
Director: Habib Faisal
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,00,000
Each For an entertaining narrative that brings to the fore the struggle of a school teacher who is torn between maintaining his integrity and the lure of a little more comfort.
BEST KANNADA FILM: Puttakkana Highway
Producer: Shylaja Nag and Prakash Raj
Director: B Suresha
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,00,000
For a persuasive articulation of a topical social issue where in the name of development, land is appropriated and people are displaced as a consequence.
BEST MALAYALAM FILM: Veettilekkulla Vazhi
Producer: BC Joshi
Director: Dr Biju
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,00,000
For narrating the story of a doctor who overcomes personal loss to journey through an unfamiliar landscape to fulfil a promise to a dying mother and in the process finds a personal salvation.
BEST MARATHI FILM: Mala Aai Vhhaychay
Producer: Samruddhi Porey
Director: Samruddhi Porey
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,00,000
For an emotional presentation of the story of a surrogate mother who is torn between love and sacrifice for the child.
BEST TAMIL FILM: Thenmerkku Paruvakkatru
Producer: Shibu Isaac
Director: Seenu Ramasamy
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,00,000
Each For an emotive articulation of the combative spirit of a mother for whom her son's happiness is paramount.
BEST ENGLISH FILM: Memories in March
Producer: Shrikant Mohta
Director: Sanjoy Nag
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,00,000
For the effective exploration of a bereaved mother's coming to terms with the fact of her son's sexual identity.
SPECIAL MENTION: Bettada Jeeva (Kannada)
Late Shivaram Karanth
Certificate only
For an industry that has steadfastly refused to acknowledge and reward its creative fountainhead - the creator of its stories - the citation acknowledges a literary giant, the late Dr. Shivaram Karanth. The citation also acknowledges his valuable association with the world of Indian cinema.
SPECIAL MENTION: Aadukalam (Tamil)
VIS Jayaraman
Certificate only
With a face carved out of teak and leather, the patriarch of a cock-fighting clan stands like a colossus, even when he feels his power and authority ebbing through his fingers.
NON-FEATURE FILMS
BEST NON-FEATURE FILM: Germ (Hindi)
Producer: Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, Kolkata
Director: Snehal R Nair
Swarna Kamal and Rs 1,50,000
Through abstract visualization and endearing black & white tones, the film depicts the human existence, afflicted by cancer, in a very sublime and somber tone. Along with the perception and growth, from child to youth and by the curious collection of thrown passport photographs, the film maker presents the changing perspective of the vision of the modern growing world in a very engaging manner.
BEST DEBUT NON-FEATURE FILM OF A DIRECTOR: Pistulya (Marathi & Telugu)
Producer: Nagraj Manjule
Director: Nagraj Manjule
Rajat Kamal Rs 75,000
It is a delightful exposition of the poignant life of a poverty-stricken child, who nurtures a dream of embracing the source of learning through education, with simplicity and fluency. The director portrays the spirit of adventure of the child, through fine performances.
BEST ETHNOGRAPHIC FILM: Songs of Mashangva (Tangkhul, Manipuri & English)
Producer: Oinam Doren
Director: Oinam Doren
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
An insightful foray into the complex and layered life of a 'song' and all that it carries within it for a community. It inquires into the shared critical history of a community in the specific context of an overarching missionary presence and how it has affected their lives. The jury appreciates it for the courageous, yet poetic exploration of the subject from the ethnographic perspective.
BEST BIOGRAPHICAL FILM: Nilamadhaba (English)
Producer: Films Division
Director: Dilip Patnaik
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
An intimate portrayal of the inimitable Sunanda Pattanaik, whose life is inseparable from contemporary Indian classical music. The film explores the inner spirit of the artist through evocative moments, pregnant with visual passages.
BEST ARTS AND CULTURE FILM: Leaving Home (English & Hindi)
Producer: Jaideep Varma
Director: Jaideep Varma
Rajat Kamal Rs 50,000
It is an emotive and enthralling exposition of the passion and dedication of a group, bound by the spirit of music, who transcend the commercial boundary to embrace their original creative flair. Without compromising, the group led to the adventure with courage and guts. The film maker has journeyed through this adventure with dramatic sensibility and compassion.
BEST SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY FILM: Heart to Heart (Manipuri & English)
Producer: Rotary Club of Imphal
Director: Bachaspatimayum Sunzu
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
A very well constructed reality with an engaging dramatic sensibility, that depicts the grimness of natural health maladies. It guides the viewer through emotions and playful spirit of the child. With the help of medical science, it enlightens the viewer with awareness of Congenital Heart Defect and its promising treatment.
BEST PROMOTIONAL FILM: Ek Ropa Dhan (Hindi)
Producer: Meghnath Bhattacharjee
Director: Biju Toppo and Meghnath Bhattacharjee
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
A succinct and well researched film looking closely at an innovation applied effectively in the farming of rice. The film engages successfully with the issue and makes a strong case for the promotion of the practice called Ek Ropa Dhan.
BEST ENVIRONMENT FILM: Iron is Hot (English)
Producer: Meghnath Bhattacharjee
Director: Biju Toppo and Meghnath Bhattacharjee
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
The film is well documented with a forthright exposition of the grievous impact of pollution due to sponge iron industry on the inhabitants dwelling around that area. With clarity and veracity, the film maker is able to express empathy and concern on the acute prevailing problem over human existence.
BEST FILM ON SOCIAL ISSUES: Understanding Trafficking (Bengali, Hindi & English)
Producer: Cinemawoman
Director: Ananya Chakraborti
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
To cross the line of limit, becomes an issue of indifference. Along this line, the documentary projects the serious social issue of human trafficking in a very thought provoking manner through stark and gravitating images. It airs an intriguing atmosphere of concerns through dramatised and realistic imageries.
BEST EDUCATIONAL FILM: Advaitham (Telugu)
Producer: K Vijaypal Reddy
Director: Pradeep Maadugula
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
The documentary exposes the human apathy of class difference through casteism in a very evoking and natural style. Through fun-filled situations and distressing moments, the director portrays the anguished and tragic aspects of casteism effecting human value and relationship.
BEST FILM ON SPORTS: Boxing Ladies (Hindi)
Producer: Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, Kolkata
Director: Anusha Nandakumar
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
A sensitive portrayal of young aspiring talents in a country where sports as passion/ profession comes up against heavy social odds and family biases. The jury applauds the film for the restrained and elevating treatment of a crucial subject underlining the silent dignity of the characters involved.
BEST INVESTIGATIVE FILM: A Pestering Journey (Malayalam, Punjabi, Hindi, English & Tulu)
Producer: Ranjini Krishnan
Director: KR Manoj
Rajat Kamal Rs 50,000
The pet detective in a reverse act, an emotive documentary exposing not only stories of cruel impact of pest control on human health but also arrests out attention to a more fundamental question - who is a pest?
SPECIAL JURY AWARD: Kabira Khada Bazaar Mein (Hindi)
Producer: Srishti School of Art, Design & Technology, Bangalore
Director: Shabnam Virmani
Rajat Kamal and Rs 1,00,000
An insightful film that introduces us to the various cults that have grown around Kabir, the mystic weaver and saint. It explores the nuances of India's argumentative tradition as exemplified by Kabir's dohas and traces the eventful journey of one man caught in an Orwellion dilemma as he is elevated to the status of a cult leader, torn between the inevitable trappings of hierarchy that run paradoxical to the simple philosophy of Kabir.
SHORT FICTION FILM: Kal 15 August Dukan Band Rahegi (Hindi)
Producer: Film & Television Institute of India, Pune
Director: Prateek Vats
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
With energy and vigour, the documentary records very interesting images of a group of young students, who are trying to relate, with ideology of freedom and the stifling authoritarian reality. In the process, the life is entangled with intrigues and doubts.
BEST FILM ON FAMILY VALUES: Love in India (Bengali & English)
Producer: Overdose
Director: Kaushik Mukherjee
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
Explores and deconstructs the traditional and orthodox landscapes of love, sexuality and conjugal relationships and the dynamics of emerging sexual politics and value systems in contemporary India with clarity and insight laced with subtle humour.
BEST DIRECTION: Shyam Raat Seher (Hindi & Engish)
Director: Arunima Sharma
Swarna Kamal and Rs 1,50,000
Intelligent articulation of a shared urban angst in a powerful cinematic style and well constructed mise-en-scene. The maturity of the director is reflected in the balanced approach to all the elements that blend to create an impression in the viewers mind.
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: Shyam Raat Seher (Hindi & English)
Cameraman: Murali G
Laboratory: Film Lab
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
Imaginative yet minimal, a balanced and evocative cinematography creates a character out of a city night atmosphere, setting the space and mood for the living characters in their journey beyond the real, nearing mythical.
BEST AUDIOGRAPHY: Harikumar Madhavan Nair (Re-recordist - final mixed track) for A Pestering Journey (Malayalam, Punjabi, Hindi English and Tulu)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
Does one hear the cry of the pest? In between the sound of the real and evoking music, the ensuing silence tells us the stories beyond.
BEST EDITING: Tinni Mitra for Germ (Hindi)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
The abstract visualization and endearing black &white tones are very effectively punctuated with fine editing, and in the process it maintains a very subtle and flowing rhythm and pace to carry forward the cinematic work.
BEST NARRATION: (for Writing the Narration): Nilanjan Bhattacharya for Johar: Welcome to Our World (Hindi and English)
Rajat Kamal and Rs 50,000
A seamless powerful narrative about the symbiotic intricate relationship, the tribals of Jharkhand have with their forests and their struggle for existence against mindless aggressive development and flawed conservation policies, told with empathy and sincerity.
SPECIAL MENTION: Ottayal (One Woman Alone) (Malayalam)
Director: Shiny Jacob Benjamin
It is a heart warming portrayal of the woman Dayabai, who trades along a challenging path in quest of truth. The director, delves into the spirit of the woman to understand the theology of liberation, with sincerity and intelligence
SPECIAL MENTION: The Zeliangrongs (Manipuri & English)
Director: Ronel Haobam
It is a well researched endeavour to reflect a composite group of ethnic communities of common origin and socio-cultural back-ground, which highlights the rich cultural heritage and the tribes' traditional way of life, which is on the brink of extinction.
SPECIAL MENTION: Pistulya (Marathi & Telugu)
Child Artist: Suraj Pawar
Under distressing situation and harsh reality, Pistulya, the child protagonist, displays the authenticity with vibrant and emotive expression.
BEST WRITING ON CINEMA
BEST BOOK ON CINEMA: From Rajahs and Yogis to Gandhi and Beyond: Images of India in International Films of the Twentieth Century (English) Publisher: Seagull Books
Author: Vijaya Mulay
Swarna Kamal and Rs 75,000
Here is a work of rigorous film scholarship which took the author to many lands and consumed many years of her life. Written in a clear lucid style, the book evokes a panoramic view of India that perhaps was through the eyes of several filmmakers of foreign origin. What adds an extra dimension to the book is the author's narration of her own life in films even as she is engaged in telling the larger events on and off screen.
SPECIAL MENTION: Cinema Bhojpuri (English)
Publisher: Penguin Books India Ltd
Author: Avijit Ghosh
Certificate
Often dismissed as a poor cousin of mainstream Hindi cinema, Bhojpuri cinema, however has many interesting cultural strains that Avijit Ghosh has laid bare. Any one conversant with life in North Bihar and East Uttar Pradesh, or in many lands far beyond, would recognize the importance of this 'subaltern' effort.
SPECIAL MENTION: Thiraicheelai (Tamil)
Publisher: Trisakti Sundar Raman
Author: Oviyar Jeeva Certificate
This book is a sincere attempt to analyse important developments in Tamil films. It also provides an insight into the classics of world cinema, highlighting their aesthetic values.
BEST FILM CRITIC: Joshy Joseph (English)
Swarna Kamal and Rs 37,500
Joshy Joseph, essentially a filmmaker, proves to be an important critic as well, as he goes about writing on the most serious aspects of medium with wry humour and a lightness of touch that is difficult not to notice. His commitment to the documentary in particular sets him apart from many of those writing on cinema in this country.
BEST FILM CRITIC: N Manu Chakravarthy (Kannada & English)
Swarna Kamal and Rs 37,500
Professor Chakravarthy's writings on film and related arts are replete with profound insights into the human condition as well as the need for serious discourse on socio-cultural matters. His writings reveal the authority with which he can discuss the cinemas of the world, particularly his own Kannada cinema.

NO TIFF WITH RANVEER: SAYS RANBIR

Actor Ranbir kapoor rubbishes reports that he had a tiff with newcomer Ranveer Singh during a recent party at his place.

"Ranveer is a super talent and from a very respectful family. None of this stuff happened as reported. He remains a dear friend and somebody whose work I admire and look forward to seeing on screen again," Ranbir said in a statement.

Rumours were rife that Ranveer, who shot to fame after the success of "Band Baaja Baaraat", infuriated Ranbir when he asked him to play the remixed version of "Dum maaro dum" song that stars his ex-girlfriend Deepika Padukone again and again and started discussing the actress at length.

However, Ranbir insists that there is no truth in the story.

"As a stance, Ranbir doesn't believe in entertaining and clarifying such reports, however in this case, he has decided to set the record straight as too much is being written about him without verifying the facts," said a source.

"Ranbir is very upset with rumors of these rifts with his friends and wants to clarify that there is absolutely no truth to it," 

'I am not married to anyone' Fluttering Rumour Says-Genny

 Genelia tied the knot with her long - time friend Ritiesh Deshmukh in a very private ceremony. The actress, who has taken all the gossips about her in her stride, is disturbed by this bit of news.

Genelia rues that soon after such baseless reports started flowing in, there was huge discord in her family and she had to explain that it was just baseless rumor.

She Further Says “I am not married to anyone. Whether I am in love with Ritesh or not is a personal matter. I don’t want to go into it. Rumours about women actors have become common, but the mention of marriage has complicated matters. If I am marrying someone I don’t have to do it in secret. I am not a coward. I shall publicly announce before I get married.” We wish the rumour to be a rumour itself!..
source : http://way2tollywoodnews.blogspot.com/2010/08/i-am-not-married-to-anyone-fluttering.html

A candid conversation with Shah Rukh Khan

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who has transcended geographical boundaries and won hearts of millions with his charismatic screen presence, says he doesn't consider himself a star.
"The reason I say I am not a star is because I am completely human. I still cry, I still laugh, I crack jokes, I get stressed, I feel disturbed but I think you people love me so much because I could be human," he told reporters Wednesday at the music launch of his latest production Always Kabhi Kabhi, releasing June 17.
"Even though I have this pedestal where I stand which says I am a big star but actually I am nobody till I work hard to make you smile," added the 45-year-old.
To give a Midas touch to the film, Shah Rukh has appeared in a promotional song of the film Always Kabhi Kabhi.

"It's not an item number. It's the beginning of the film. The music and the lyrics of course make it a peppy number," he clarified.
This directorial debut of Roshan Abbas is also launching two new faces - Zoa Morani and Satyajeet Dubey. Actor Giselle Montario of Love Aaj Kal fame and Ali Fazal who did a small role in Aamir Khan-starrer 3 Idiots play lead roles in the film.
Set in a school, Always Kabhi Kabhi is about four unique youngsters trying to compete with pressure of growing up and many firsts that everyone experiences in high school.
As today's school life has changed a lot, King Khan could hardly identify with any except the determination of the youths to accomplish their goal.
"The youth part of the film is the same as it was in my time, but the way they deal with their life has changed. There are many things in the film that I have not done in my school life. So there are many things I couldn't identify with," said Shah Rukh.
"Life has changed so much. But the thing that the film says, follow your dream, I could easily identify with. I never thought that I would come to Mumbai and do so much of work but yes I always aspired to be an actor or a sportsman. The film also shows that we should do something that I am willing to do instead of choosing the way where I can lead an easy life," he added.
source added: http://www.bollywoodsamachar.com/ShowNews.asp?NewsSite=&NewsUrl=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/a-candid-conversation-with-shah-rukh-khan/152881-8-66.html

‘Dabangg’ earns the highest honour – the National Award!

The most prestigious kudos for films in India – the National Awards – were announced this afternoon. The jury declared the Malayalam movie Adaminte Makan Abu as Best Film and Vetrimaran as Best Director for the Tamil film Aadukalam, while Salman Khan’s Dabangg won the prize for Wholesome Entertainment. The Best Actress award has been shared between Mitali Jagtap Varadkar for Babuu Band Bajaa (Marathi) and Saranya Ponvannan for Thenmerkku Paruvakkatru (Tamil). Ailing actor Rajinikanth’s son-in-law Dhanush took home the Best Actor award for Aadukalam, sharing it with Salim Kumar who won it for Adamante Makan Abu. Vishal Bhardwaj’s score for Ishqiya bagged him the award for Best Music Director (Songs) while his wife Rekha won Best Playback Singer – quite a musical family, this! The Rishi and Neetu Kapoor-starrer Do Dooni Chaar has been voted Best Hindi Film. To that, an elated member of Planman Motion Pictures said that they were surprised by the result, especially because there was no lobbying done or any extra effort involved to make it to the nominations list. There are not-happy murmurs about Vikramaditya Motwane’s Udaan not winning anything here – apparently it was a strong contender, having swept so many jury awards since it was released. source added.
http://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/dabangg-earns-the-highest-honour-the-national-award/

Brett Lee flirts with Deepika Padukone at party

Australian speedster Brett Lee knows how to bowl out cricketers as well as pretty girls. The fast bowler, who was earlier linked to actress Preity Zinta, bowls out girls not with bouncers but with his soothing voice though. Surprisingly, he was spotted flirting with actress Deepika Padukone at a recent party hosted by Shahrukh Khan.

Sources said that Brett Lee seemed smitten by Deepika at Shahrukh's lavish bash. He kept singing songs for the actress all night, leaving her red-faced.

Well, we don't know how Siddharth Mallya will react to this of news!