CELEBspEAK

Abhishek and Aishwarya in Switzerland : Bollywood News : ApunKaChoice.Com

2007-06-27T00:35:00.000-07:00

Abhishek and Aishwarya in Switzerland : Bollywood News

No, the couple is in Switzerland not for an extended honeymoon.

Ever since their wedding in April, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai have been trotting the globe together. First they went to honeymoon in Tahiti Isles. Then they made a brief visit to Cannes before flying off to London.

Now, the couple is reported to be in Switzerland. This time it is work commitment that has taken them there.

Abhishek has gone there to shoot for Yash Raj Film’s Laaga Chunari Mein Daag . The film, directed by Pradeep Sarkar, has Rani Mukherjee , Konkona Sen Sharma and Jaya Bachchan in main roles. Abhishek only has a brief role in the flick.

Ash, quite understandably, is accompanying her hubby on his Swiss sojourn. She has already shot her portions for Ashutosh Gowarikar’s movie Jodha Akbar , which will be her next big release later this year. She is paired with Hrithik Roshan in the film.

In her interviews Ash has been saying that she is absolutely enjoying her married life with Abhishek. While at IIFA, she even went on to say that she has “the best husband in the world.”

Incidentally, Abhishek had called her “the best wife” a day before that.

Well, they definitely are Bollywood’s best couple presently."

George Clooney KIss auctioned for $350,000

2007-05-30T22:42:00.000-07:00

Clooney and the lucky lady Photo by: Dave Hogan / Getty
Sharon Stone put George Clooney on the auction block Wednesday for a good cause: AIDS research. Clooney and his Ocean's Thirteen co-stars Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, Andy Garcia and Ellen Barkin made a brief appearance at the annual Cinema Against AIDS dinner, which raised a record $7 million for the Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR). As Clooney and his castmates auctioned off a seven-day Mediterranean getaway on a private boat, Stone announced: "If you bid, one of these guys will come down and touch you. And you can choose which one." But the choice was clear. With flourish – and on stage – Clooney promptly kissed the lucky girlfriend of the winning bidder, who'd ponied up $350,000. "I'll kiss [Clooney] for $500,000," joked Ellen Barkin. And as dozens of guests clicked their camera phones, Clooney then kissed her, too. There was more talk of kissing later in the evening, when Lost's Michelle Rodriguez teasingly offered to smooch Stone if bidders would go higher on a private tennis lesson from guest Monica Seles. (The bidders did, but Rodriguez didn't pucker up.) The night also featured an impromptu performance from Kylie Minogue after guests – including Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, Eva Mendes, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell – joined together to bid $300,000 for two songs. Minogue, who'd been sipping champagne and sitting unnoticed at a table with designer Sergio Rossi until Harvey Weinstein summoned her, performed "The Locomotion" and "Can't Get You Out of My Head." Stone jumped onstage to join her. Other entertainment for the night: Dita von Teese's burlesque act, built around a 9-foot MAC Viva Glam lipstick. And as guests finished their dessert of peach melba with chocolate, John Lennon's son Julian closed the night with "Stand By Me." "I've never been involved in anything like this," Lennon said. "It's an overwhelming experience." Other guests at the dinner included Mischa Barton, Rosario Dawson, Rose McGowan (who held hands and snuggled much of the night with Grind House director Robert Rodriguez), Kerry Washington and Bond girl Michelle Yeoh. "I think it's great in the middle of such dolce vita to raise money for something so important," McGowan told PEOPLE.

Lindsay Lohan into detox

2007-05-29T23:24:00.000-07:00

Actress Lindsay Lohan entered treatment for alcohol abuse three days after she was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, her press agent said on Tuesday.
"Lindsay admitted herself to an intensive medical rehabilitation facility on Memorial Day," her press agent said in a statement.
On Saturday, Lohan, who starred in the 1998 film 'The Parent Trap' and 2003's 'Freaky Friday', crashed her black Mercedes into a curb near the Beverly Hills Hotel and was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and of possession of illegal drugs.
Police Lieutenant Mitch McCann said Lohan had been cited for driving under influence and the case would be presented to the district attorney's office.
He said the actress could face felony charges because of "some additional contraband found in the vehicle".
The actress is 20. It is illegal in California for people under the age of 21 to drink alcohol.
The actress, who most recently starred in 'Bobby' and 'Georgia Rule', was admitted to a detoxification clinic in January outside Los Angeles after revealing that she attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
The centre in Malibu also treated Britney Spears in February and March.
Lohan is to appear in court on 24 August.
AFP

image:entertainment.bodogbeat.com

Miss India: Puja Gupta: Miss Universe 2007

2007-05-28T02:24:00.000-07:00

She definately seems to be a winner. This time if all goes will Miss INdia, Puja Gupta will certainly be Miss Universe 2007.

What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?

I love writing, practicing yoga, horseback riding, and spending time with loved ones and friends. What is your career ambition?My career ambition is to be a successful communicator; someone who can positively affect others through written or spoken mediums; someone who solves problems and contributes towards social development.

Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.

I was born and brought up in India, New Delhi. Being the youngest one in my family and the apple of my father's eye, I led a very protected life because of the huge age difference between me and my siblings; I was the fortunate pampered child. My father passed away when I was sixteen years old. My mother was devastated by my father's loss and that's when I learned how to be independent and I learnt how to not only look after me but also my mother.

What do you want the judges to know about you?

My name is Puja Gupta. I believe all kinds of hard work in life is a stepping stone toward success; if you work with a dogged determination nothing is impossible. While practicing yoga for 3 years, I have learned that life is so much more beautiful and meaningful than one could imagine. Being the youngest one in my family, I realize how fortunate life has been for me. I have asked myself what I want to do now that I have a loving family and sufficient opportunity. I always wanted to be a writer, travel, meet people, find out what they desire and what they lack, get to know them, get to know their beautiful cultures and stay with them. When we open our eyes in this beautiful world, it's God who decided where we are born and where we will die, the rest is our journey, our efforts to meet people, make our own family. I am on my own journey to make the whole universe my family and touch their hearts that when I die through life's impact I can leave a message to cherish this beautiful universe and everything about it. Life is too short, and you only have one life, so enjoy it to the fullest and make sure you learn from your mistakes.

Karan Johar to marry Ekta Kapoor

2007-05-27T10:24:00.001-07:00

"The man Ekta should marry is Karan Johar". The only woman Karan would marry is Ekta Kapoor. And so the saga of romance continued throughout the show. But unfortunately, Ekta seems totally evased by the entrepreneur and man running the Reliance Industry.

Ekta commented that he is the ideal balance of a fierce entrepreneur and a family man. And that if Mukesh was not married, she'd definately be with him.

It was a saucy koffee with karan, full of ironical expression and innocent flirtation. Personally I do think the two have a shot together in the future, who knows!!! When they get married (lol), they definately will be the talk of the

Aishwarya Rai& Abhishek Bachchan on Honeymoon

2007-05-26T18:32:00.001-07:00

Well a classic case of Aishwarya Rai's not so pleased face.

Aishwarya Rai's gifts her parents : Bollywood News

2007-05-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

Reports are that the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai gifted her parents extremely expensive gifts on the eve of her marriage.

Buzz is that Ash gifted approximately 8 Crores from her earnings to her parents and brother before stepping into the Bachchan family as their bahu last month.

In addition to the money , Ash spent several crores on her marriage with Abhishek Bachchan .

Ash bought Rs 3 crores worth of jewelry from AK Motiwala jewelers in Bandra and a large amount of jewelry from Golcha Jewelers.

In addition to jewelry the former Miss World spent tonnes of stash on clothes for the wedding having bought Rs 4 Lakhs worth of sarees from Kala Niketan and a large number of Kanchivaram and Pochampalli saris from Nalli's. "

Paris Hilton turning to religion?

2007-05-25T00:07:00.000-07:00

Socialite heiress Paris Hilton, who is to serve jail time soon for driving without a license, was spotted picking up some reading material, including the Bible.
Hilton picked up a copy of the Bible and 'The Power of Now', a book by empowerment guru Eckhart Tolle. Though swamped by photographers at the Hollywood bookstore, she seemed more comfortable and was more willing to show her face, reports pagesix.com
While in jail, Hilton will be separated from the other inmates, supposedly for her own
protection.

Jordin Sparks on winning American Idol

2007-05-24T23:30:00.000-07:00

By Michelle Tan
Photo by: Lester Cohen / WireImage

(people.com)

Although Jordin Sparks was overcome with emotion when Ryan Seacrest announced that she was the sixth American Idol, she still managed to talk to reporters when the show ended. After sharing her win with her family, getting her makeup touched up – and meeting Bette Midler! – she spoke backstage at the Kodak Theatre about winning, paparazzi and what's next. What was going through your mind right before Ryan announced that you won? I was standing up there and Blake was holding my hand and he was like, "I love you, sweetheart." I was like, "I love you too." He squeezed my hand and I knew whatever happened I'd be okay and everything would be fine. He's such a great supporter and so encouraging of me. I'm one of his biggest fans and he's one of mine. It turned out pretty cool, I guess! You became very emotional during your last song, 'This Is My Now.' What were you feeling then?It was a mix of a lot of things. I can't believe that it's over. It seems like years ago that I auditioned in Seattle, but at the same time it's gone by so fast. It was a mix of everything was ending and I don't know – the song is just so amazing. I looked up at all the people and I saw my parents sitting there and I realized that what I said I wanted to do a long time ago, I was doing it. And it just totally overcame me. Did you know you had such fan support going into the finals?I've been in a bubble, so I didn't. When I went home I got so much support there, but that was my home state. I had no idea what everybody else was thinking. I love the love, what can I say? Are you ready to record your first album?I might be getting some material during the [Idols Live] tour and then I guess right after I'll start working on that. Will you write your own songs?I would love to write. I've written a couple of songs but I don't know if they'll go on the album. But I've written and I hope I can write a little bit on my album. Now that you've won and have a singing career ahead of you, how does college factor in?
Photo by: Frank Micelotta / Getty
I haven't graduated [high school] yet. I'm only a junior. I'm still working on it. During this whole process I've been doing at least three hours a day because that's what I'm required to do and it's been really cool. It's kept everything pretty normal. I'll do my school and then I'll go sing; I'll do my school and then I'll go get fitted in amazing dresses. It's so crazy. I would love to go to college one day, but I'm kind of just thinking about the now. But education is important and I'm still getting it. I actually get out of school tomorrow! Do you have a favorite performance? I have no idea. I loved each and every performance that I did. There were some that I liked more than others. I think that I tried to top myself every performance. I liked them all. I don't regret anything. Did you speak with Simon after tonight's show?He was like, "Congratulations, Jordin. You deserved it." And I was like, "Thank you." And he gave me a hug and it was like, "Oh my God! Simon Cowell is hugging me!" You had so many costume changes. Describe your personal style and what complements you best.I think corset-y tops fit. Baby doll tees like this are better because it's very flattering on the side. It was so crazy doing all the costume changes. I've never done that in all my life. I'm learning more and more about myself as this goes on because now I have to look good! So now I'm like, "Okay, so the stylists are helping me out." Badgley Mischka designed those gorgeous dresses that you saw. They designed the reveal gown. It's so beautiful. It was one of a kind. I think I get to keep them all! What part of this process has prepared you most for your career?You know when you see celebrites and the paparazzi follow them? That actually happened to us a couple of weeks ago. We had three cars following us and it was so crazy. And I was like, "What have I gotten myself into?" But I think it's prepared me because I think I've become a better person and a better performer throughout all this – like interacting with fans and being able to convey my emotions better. Thank you to everybody who kept me around! How do your parents feel?I've been watching the show since I was 12 and I've always wanted to do it and I've always told my mom every year at the finale or during the show, "I want to do that, Mom. That's what I want to do. I want to be able to sing on that stage and whether I win or not, I want to be there." And now I'm actually doing it. I know she's proud of me and I know my dad is and my brother. And we're just going to take it one step at a time.

Aishwarya Rai: Cannes:Awe Inspiring Photo

2007-05-24T05:13:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya & Abhishek on Honemoon post Cannes

2007-05-23T01:24:00.000-07:00

After strutting down the red carpet on the opening day of the 60th Cannes Film Festival, Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan carried on with their honeymoon, and a long one its been combining pleasure with duty. Cannes being compulsory due to Aishwarya's contractual commitments with L’Oreal.

On May 16, the opening night of the fest, Ash posed with her L’Oreal counterparts and walked the red carpet hand-in -hand with new found husband, Abhishek to attend the premiere of Wong Kar-Wai's movie ‘My Blueberry Nights’.

Beyond that the couple could not stay for the screening of Mani Ratnam’s movie Guru in the following days. In fact, Ash did not even stay for the promotion of her upcoming film Jodha Akbar . It is believed that Ash and Abhi continued on their pleasure trip in Europe because Ash has only few days left of her vacation. She has to return to Mumbai to resume the shooting of ‘Jodha Akbar’."

Koffee with Karan featuring Richard Gere Dissapoints

2007-05-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

So this Sunday, I had informed all my friends and family that Gere is going to be on Koffee with Karan. Get your TV's tuned. One of the most controversial men being talked about nowadays. Secretly hoping that Shilpa will be on too.

Sigh!.. But to my utter dismay, the mud slinging and scorching element was a miss this time. Karan failed to put Gere in a position where he would be forced to give a saucy answer. Maybe it was Gere's diplomacy which kept him at bay. Or maybe he was just too nice.

One thought, was this taped much before the Shilpa- Gere kiss?!..or was it a pure attempt at maintaining international relations!...Buddhism, Charity, and Work is all fine, but we need more personality. I mean, I foun f the episode with Rakhee Sawant more interesting!..next time hope Karan sticks to our desi starlettes and gives Hollywood amiss, unless ofcourse there is a mirch masala relevance to the Indian viewer.

Never the less, one has to thank Karan for showing us a different side to Richard Gere

Aishwarya Rai's next Hollywood movie

2007-05-20T23:12:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya Rai's next Hollywood film21st May 2007 09.01 IST By Agencies
The gorgeous Aishwarya Rai is all set to star in her next Hollywood film.Ash's next Hollywood film, a historical epic named ‘Singularity’, is expected to start filming from January next in India and South Africa.

The film, which has been in the works since late 1990’s, is to be produced by Corsan Productions, Belgium in partnership with Neelmudra Entertainment, India on a budget of $35 million.Reports are that the story of the film spans two continents and time periods and revolves around a British officer in colonial India in love with an Indian damsel (Ash), and an American marine biologist struggling to save his research partner who is trapped in the wreckage of a colonial Brit merchant ship.The film, to be directed by Roland Joffé, was earlier named ‘The Invaders’.Along with the title, the script of the film was also revised earlier this year, though the basic story line remains the same.It is likely the star cast of the film has changed too. Hollywood star Brendan Fraser and Bollywood star Vivek Oberoi were earlier part of the cast.While Fraser's participation in the project is yet to be confirmed it is likely that Vivek will be dropped from the cast due to his past romantic association with Ash who is now married to Abhishek Bachchan .

Paris Hilton's jail time reduced due to good behaviour

2007-05-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

Paris Hilton's jail time halved due to good behaviour
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Celebrity heiress Paris Hilton will only be jailed for 23 days of a 45-day sentence for a driving offence and will be held separately from other inmates, officials said on Thursday.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has decided it will cut the 26-year-old's sentence after reviewing the case and giving her credit for good behaviour.

pokesman Steve Whitmore said she would also be kept in a special needs housing unit.
"This was decided because of her high profile," Whitmore told Reuters. "She will do fine if she follows the rules."
Hilton's troubles began in September when the socialite and reality TV star was arrested for drunken driving.
In January, she pleaded no contest -- the equivalent of a guilty plea -- and was sentenced to three years' probation and had her license suspended.
But in February she was pulled over for driving without headlights and was found to be driving on a suspended license. Earlier this month, a shocked and tearful Hilton was sentenced to 45 days in jail for violating her probation by driving on a suspended license.
Hilton, who has been ordered to report to prison by June 5, has said the punishment was too harsh and vowed to appeal, with her backers asking California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to pardon her.
(c) Reuters 2007. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by caching, framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters and the Reuters sphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group of companies around the world.
This article is from news.scotsman.com

Aishwarya and Abhishek at Cannes

2007-05-16T23:21:00.000-07:00

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Bachchan pose upon arriving for the opening ceremony of the 60th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in France. (AFP)

AP) Aishwarya Bachchan, formerly Rai, made one of her first appearances after her wedding to fellow Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan on April 20, 2007 in Mumbai, India. Appearing at the Cannes Film Festival, Bachchan said she is still getting used to being referred to by her new last name but likes it nonetheless. "I was kind of getting used to that because it's the first time you're being addressed by a new surname and I've maybe done a double take at times but pleasantly so, it makes us smile, so it's been good," she added. She was at the film festival as part of L'Oreal's team of models with husband Abhishek. Bachchan has packed all her obligations including press interviews within a two day slot taken out of her personal time post marriage. Bachchan will return to shooting an epic film with director Ashutosh Gowariker titled "Jodha Akbar" based on the love affair between Mughal Emperor Akbar and his Rajput wife Jodha. She is cast opposite Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan in the film. Abhishek and Aishwarya Bachchan walked the red carpet at the opening night on Wednesday, May 16, 2007 for the screening of the film "My Blueberry Nights." The Cannes Film Festival will run through until May 27 in Cannes, in the South of France.

Richard Gere on 'Koffee with Karan' this Sunday

2007-05-16T22:50:00.000-07:00

©2007 Bollyvista.com

Richard Gere
Considered as one of the sexiest man in entertainment arena, Richard Gere will feature in this week's 'Koffee with Karan' hosted by Karan Johar.

Some excerpts from this free wheeling talk show: 'Bipasha Basu is very sexy and hot, she is terrific and bright too', 'My mother goes weak in her knees every time she sees you on television,' says Karan as he welcomes the Hollywood heartthrob Richard Gere on the show. Speaking about the Gere Foundation, Richard shares what prompted him to take up the cause of HIV Aids. Richard also confesses that he has seen Indian movies, but cannot recollect the names and in fact would love to act in a song and dance Bollywood movie!

For more tune in to Star World and Star one this Sunday.

Richard Gere was in news recently for the controversial kiss with Shilpa Shetty on stage. "

Lindsay Lohan Is Maxim’s Sexiest

2007-05-15T23:04:00.000-07:00

from Hollywoodtuna by Administrator

In the battle of the hotties, it’s movie star Lindsay Lohan who has come out on top. She has beaten arch-rival in the beauty stakes Jessica Alba to be crowned the hottest woman in the world, according to Maxim magazine. The Georgia Rule actress, and famous troublemaker, tops the magazine’s eighth annual Hot 100 list, a ranking by editors weighing buzz and beauty for women in film, TV, music, sports and fashion."

http://www.celebspin.com/angelina-jolie-why-i-decided-to-have-a-baby/

2007-05-15T22:57:00.000-07:00

courtesy celebspin.com

Angelina Jolie has always said she wanted to adopt children from all over the world – but she opened up to the idea of having a biological child after she met Brad Pitt, she says in a revealing new interview.
Jolie already had two kids, son Maddox, now 5, adopted from Cambodia, and daughter Zahara, 2, from Ethiopia, when she became pregnant with daughter Shiloh, who turns 1 on May 27. Asked in the June issue of Reader’s Digest if the pregnancy was intentional, Jolie, 31, says: “It was.
“Before I met Brad, I always said I was happy never to have a child biologically. He told me he hadn’t given up that thought. Then, a few months after Z came home, I saw Brad with her and Mad, and I realized how much he loved him, that a biological child would not in any way be a threat. So I said, ‘I want to try.’ “
Jolie, who stars in the new movie A Mighty Heart, also opens up about her relationship with Pitt, 44, why she decided to welcome a fourth child (son Pax, 3, whom she adopted from Vietnam in March) and more. Some highlights:
On how she went from single mom of one to part of a family of six in just three years: “I met this amazing person, and we realized we had very similar views on how we wanted to live our lives. It’s happened quickly, with so many children. Yesterday, picking up the kids from school, Brad turned around in the car, and there were three of them. He couldn’t stop laughing.”
On deciding to adopt a toddler from Vietman: “As kids get older, it’s harder for them to be adopted. … Something changed for me with Shiloh. We had Mad and Z, and neither looked like Mommy or Daddy. Then suddenly somebody in the house looked like Mommy and Daddy. It became clear to us that it might be important to have somebody around who is similar to the other children so they have a connection. Mad’s very excited that his brother is from Asia.”
On her wanting more children: “Yeah, yeah. More biological, more adopted.”
On finding quality time with Pitt: “Right now, that’s our problem! We hang out. We try to talk over the swing set. We’ll have a date night once everybody is settled. … Especially now with Pax, he still gets scared if I’m gone more than a few hours. But we’ll get them occupied with a movie and popcorn and try to run off and lock the door for a bit.”
On what Pitt finds sexy about her: “I could be dressed up in the sexiest outfit for a photo shoot, and by his behavior, he’ll let me know that’s nice, but it’s nothing as sexy as when I’m home surrounded by the kids or reading books, educating myself.”

Saif Ali Khan to walk the ramp :

2007-05-15T22:18:00.000-07:00

07th May 2007 19.28 IST
By ApunKaChoice

For the first time actor Saif Ali Khan is set to walk the ramp for a clothes brand that he endorses.

He’s got the looks, he’s got the physique and he’s got attitude. Yet, Saif Ali Khan has never walked the catwalk before. But that is going to change this Wednesday.

On May 9, Saif will model for clothes by Provogue, a brand that he endorses. He will be part of a fashion show co-ordinated by Mehr Jessia.

The best of the glitzy evening will be saved for the last when Saif will walk the ramp as the closing act of the fashion show.

While Saif doesn’t deny that he is nervous about his first fashion show, he is also looking forward to it because he likes to take on different challenges.

Having recently come out of a relationship and having quit smoking, Saif has begun his life afresh. He has started shooting for Abbas Mastan’s thriller Race in which he will be seen doing some risky stunts.

After ‘Race’, Saif will be busy with another Yashraj Films project.

As of now, it is Wednesday’s catwalk that is on Saif’s mind."

Therapist: Paris Hilton 'Traumatized' by Jail Sentence

2007-05-15T00:05:00.000-07:00

MONDAY MAY 14, 2007 08:00 PM EDT
By Ken Lee
Paris Hilton Photo by: Thos Robinson / Getty
Paris Hilton's psychiatrist declared that the heiress is "distraught and traumatized" and "fears incarceration" after a judge sentenced her to 45 days in jail. Dr. Charles Sophy gave those findings in a Los Angeles Superior Court document filed Monday in an ongoing $10 million slander and libel suit against Hilton by actress Zeta Graff. Hilton is facing an order to testify in the civil trial beginning May 21, but the psychiatrist argues that "given (Hilton's) current psychological, and emotional state ... (she's) not capable of any meaningful participation in a trial." Sophy says Hilton, 26, needs to recover from the outcome of the jail sentence. Hilton was given jail time for violating her probation for driving with a suspended license. The documents, filed by Hilton's lawyers in the slander suit, show that Dr. Sophy has been treating Hilton for the past eight months, and had met with her several times since her probation violation hearing. "She is emotionally distraught and traumatized as a consequence of the findings at the May 4 hearing, the jail sentence imposed upon her by the judge, and her fear of incarceration," Sophy wrote. Graff has accused Hilton of fabricating lies against her which appeared in a July 2005 edition of the New York Post. Graff alleges that she was falsely described as stalking Hilton and her ex, Paris Latsis (whom Graff had dated). Hilton's rep declined to comment on the psychiatric report.

Shilpa SHetty launcher her Scent

2007-05-14T22:48:00.000-07:00

Shilpa Shetty to launch own perfume12th May 2007 18.00 IST By Agencies

Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty is all set to launch her own perfume.When the 'Celebrity Big Brother' race row erupted Jade's perfume Ssh... was removed from the shelves by many high street chains, and now Shilpa has created S2 (S squared) to take its place.

Perfume creator Mark Earnshaw said: "It's called S2 because her initials are S.S."Shilpa worked with us on the perfume and it contains all the notes that she's grown up loving."She chose the final fragrance and she was very happy with it. Not as happy as Richard Gere was though!"The box is going to be like Shilpa. It is very classic and modern on the outside and the inside is leopard print. Because there are two sides to Shilpa, on the outside she is very cool but she also has a very different, deeper side."It's got jasmine and musk but also fruit scents in it so it reflects her Indian heritage and will also appeal to the modern European market."Shilpa wore the perfume to the premiere of her latest movie Metro on Tuesday night in London.She said: "I love it, I'm very pleased."

The thump is here:SONY ERICSSON

2007-05-08T02:33:00.000-07:00

Hrithik Roshan sizzles in this ad created for the Sony Ericsson W200i. Seems like they've landed themselves a jackpot brand ambassador.
With movies being the face of Indian society; Bollywood is one of the most effective routes to connect with the Indian audience, as it offers instant entertainment, instant identification, instant star power and strongly influences popular culture.

Other brands this celeb endorses are- Tata Sky & Acer

the thump sure is here!

Kajol moves southwards

2007-05-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

Kajol took Bollywood by storm with her great performances and reached the envious No.1 bracket, but she preferred to settle down to a homely life after marrying Ajay Devgan. However, this didn't deter her from taking on cameos in Chopras and Johars films.

The lady who awed audiences in the Tamil film 'Minsarakanavu', which was later adapted in Hindi as 'Sapnay', has now once again looked southwards. This time it is a Malayalam film titled 'Heartbeats', scripted and directed by Babu Janardhan. "
bollyvista

Advice for Paris: late in the DAy

2007-05-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

Paris, wish you had come across this ad long before this whole episode. I'm posistive it would have made an impact. For all those of you who are still unperturbed by this event. Let me know if this makes a difference.

HOw will Paris handle Jail

2007-05-07T03:33:00.000-07:00

How did Paris spend her first weekend since being sentenced to 45 days in jail, and what does Hollywood think about her legal woes?
Now that PARIS HILTON has been sentenced to a month-and-a-half in jail, is she taking her upcoming lock-up seriously?Over the weekend, the celebutante was seen lunching and shopping, while ET got reactions from celebs on what they thought about the beauty's legal woes.LARRY KING commented: "I hope she learns her lesson," while CAMERON DIAZ mused: "People make bad choices and they make them for all different reasons and for whatever reason she made her bad choices, she's going to have to deal with it, period, and that's her journey."The 'Shrek the Third' star continued: "She just has to get it plastered all over the world and [have] 10 helicopters around her house, which I live not too far from -- I was like, 'Can you keep it down?' So we all suffer when Paris suffers."The heiress will have to serve 45 days in jail for violating probation stemming from a reckless driving case. She has until June 5 to begin her sentence. If she fails to surrender by that negotiated date, she will have to serve 90 days. Reportedly in tears after the judge's ruling, Paris left the court Friday afternoon and did not make any statements to reporters as she climbed into her waiting vehicle with mom KATHY HILTON, who called her daughter's sentence a "waste" of taxpayer dollars.Earlier in the day, the hotel heiress arrived at L.A. Superior Court about 15 minutes late, wearing a black pantsuit, grey jacket and her hair pulled back in a ponytail with a black headband. Both her parents were with her.Paris will reportedly serve time at L.A. County's jailhouse for women -- Century Regional Detention Center -- located south of downtown L.A. in Lynwood, according to The Associated Press. Because she is considered a high-profile inmate, Paris will reportedly be segregated from the rest of the women for her own safety.Friday's court date regarding the probation violation stems from an incident in February, in which Paris was pulled over for speeding and driving without her headlights turned on after sunset. She was given a ticket for driving on a suspended license.The "Simple Life" star received the ticket and was then released, but her blue Bentley Continental GTC was impounded.Paris is currently on probation after pleading no contest to alcohol-related charges. The socialite was arrested for an alleged DUI in the early morning hours of September 7, after police stated they spotted her driving erratically in Hollywood and then pulled her over.

ET Online

Shilpa Shetty tired by Gere's kiss

2007-05-07T03:26:00.000-07:00

Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty is tired of talking about Hollywood star Richard Gere's 'trivial and insignificant' kiss on her cheek at a public function in India.

Shilpa, on a trip to Australia to promote her new film Metro , said she was shocked that three pecks on the cheek from the Hollywood star at an event to promote AIDS awareness had caused such an international stir. 'It's because of things like this that people think of India as just burning effigies, snake charmers and elephants,' Shilpa was quoted by 'The Herald Sun' Saturday.

'One person made a complaint about it to further his own political agenda and then others burned effigies to get political mileage and it has all come at my and Richard's cost.

'Most people in India do not care. They are very sensible, modern people,' Shilpa said.

One controversy Shilpa is less disparaging about was her experience in the UK Big Brother House where she was called a 'dog' and a 'Paki' by her fellow celebrities.

'I think it was a positive thing in the end because it made people more aware about racism,' she said. 'I do not regret it at all.'

Shilpa said she was not keen to repeat her experience and had turned down offers from Network Ten to visit the current Australian housemates.

Shilpa said she knew she had made the right decision after watching an episode of the show.

'I am only here for two days and 13 hours, so there is no time to go in. Besides I have already done it once, I do not need to do it again.' Shilpa said. "
apunkachoice

Aishwarya's South Indian flavour

2007-05-07T00:06:00.000-07:00

The south Indian style of Aishwarya Rai's wedding07th May 2007 09.01 IST By Agencies The recent wedding of the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai to Abhishek Bachchan had its share of south Indian dose.For example, the shehnai was replaced by the nadaswaram at the wedding, with a four-member team of musicians from Chennai playing traditional tunes with a south Indian flavour selected by Ash – the bride.

The team was informed it would have to play at a marriage in Mumbai, but was kept in the dark till almost the last minute whose wedding it would be performing at. When the team comprising Mylai P Muruganandam, Mylai S Mohanraj, P C Rajarathinam and RM Dakshinamoorthy learnt it would be playing at the nuptials of Abhishek and Ash on April 20, it was a sweet surprise for them. The nadaswaram is a wind instrument played in south India during auspicious occasions and the suggestion that it should replace the shehnai, associated with north Indian weddings, came from none other than the bride. "It was not till two days before the marriage that we knew we were going to play the nadaswaram and thavil," said lead musician Muruganandam. He said it still had not sunk in for him that he had performed at the high-profile but private event that was extensively covered by the media. Muruganandam said his team was chosen thanks to Mylapore Balavinayagar and singer Kalyani Menon.

"We play regularly at a temple and that is how she came to know of us and called us for an audition, where we managed to impress her," he said. The team's "Thodi Ragam" did the trick and landed them at the Bachchan residence Pratheeksha in Mumbai. Ash had heard the "Mangala Vathiyam" in a south Indian wedding and desired the same music to be played when she tied the knot with her beau. At least, that is what Muruganandam and Mohanraj believe. "We were informed that it was she who wanted a south Indian flavour to her marriage," Mohanraj said. And when the big moment came, the music took control. "We played for about one-and-half hours and started off with the customary 'Vathapi Ganapathy'," Muruganandam said. This was followed by "Ra Ra", a composition by Saint Thyagaraja, and tunes like "Nagumo Keerthanai". When the couple tied the nuptial knot, the team played "Anandam Anandam Anandamae" (Happiness All Around). Significantly, the entire ceremony had a south Indian flavour, according to the musicians. "They even had the `Oonjal' (swing) ceremony," Mohanraj said. And who was invited to the wedding and who wasn't? Most people have fair knowledge about the guest list thanks to the uninterrupted media coverage. "However, filmmaker Mani Ratnam was the lone personality from the Tamil film industry," Muruganandam said. May be this was due to the couple's 'bhakti' (devotion) for Abhishek's appearance in Ratnam's hit film Guru . The musicians too received their share of bouquets. "Mani Ratnam lauded our 'Seethakalyana' and Bollywood mega superstar Amitabh Bachchan was impressed with our overall show," Muruganandam said. Another high point was when cricketer Sachin Tendulkar posed for a photograph with Muruganandam and Mohanraj. Kalyani Menon, instrumental in taking the team to Mumbai, attributed everything to the "greatness of Amitabh Bachchan". "The Bachchans have great respect for good art and artists and that made the four musicians play at the wedding," she said. Kalyani, the mother of noted cinematographer Rajiv Menon of "Guru" and "Bombay" fame, too sang a few numbers at the wedding, including "Seethakalyana" and some shlokas from the Bhagavathi Mahatmam Upanishads. And as the musicians took their leave, an acquaintance asked them: "So, which is the next big wedding?"

Ultimate flirt with Disaster

2007-05-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

Paris Hilton

To be a hollywood babe, one of the rules is to constantly flirt with disaster, This is the ultimate of all disasters so far. I adore Paris, I hope she finds a way to come out of this experience a more responsible and stronger person, although then she wouldn't be paris any longer would she?

Eyewitness: Hiltons Stunned By Paris's Jail Sentence

2007-05-06T20:35:00.000-07:00

Hilton outside court with father Rick (right) Photo by: Jim Ruymen / upi photo / Landov
Emotions flared at the Paris Hilton hearing on Friday, according to one eyewitness observer with an exceptionally good view: Mona Shafer Edwards, a freelance courtroom sketch artist with 25 years' experience. Observing the Hilton family's reaction before and after Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Sauer sentenced the 26-year-old hotel heiress to 45 days in jail for violating the terms of her probation, Edwards tells PEOPLE that while prosecutors were delivering their final statements, Hilton looked down discreetly into her purse at a compact and checked her makeup.

Minutes before the sentence was handed down, according to Edwards, Hilton made the sign of the cross with her right hand, then kissed her fingers. Judge Sauer was particularly stern with his comments to Hilton, whom, he said, "disregarded everything" by repeatedly driving with a suspended license. After the general public had cleared the courtroom, Hilton began to tear up. Sheriffs brought her a box of Kleenex, and she held a wad of tissues to her face as she placed her head down. Then, said Edwards, Hilton's mother, Kathy Hilton, angrily burst from the courtroom seating area toward the attorneys' table, saying loudly, "I can't believe this, I can't believe this." She went over to her daughter's side, standing over her and putting her arm around Paris as others crowded around her.

Eventually, Paris stood and was hugged by her father, Rick Hilton, who said, "I can't believe this, either." "I don't know what happened," said Paris. "I did what they said." Kathy Hilton, red in the face, then walked up to one of the prosecutors and screamed, "You're pathetic." She then asked sarcastically, "Can I have your autograph?" The prosecutor to whom Hilton had delivered her outburst completely ignored her, said Edwards. About half a dozen sheriffs' deputies then approached Kathy Hilton, who screamed at them, "Don't you touch me, don't you touch me."

As the family was about to exit the courtroom, said Edwards, Kathy Hilton declared for all to hear, "[The judge] made up his mind before he even came in today. If it were anyone else, this would've never had happened." She then exclaimed, "And after all the money we spent!" Hilton's attorney, Howard Weitzman, vows to appeal the sentence, while Judge Sauer has ordered The Simple Life star to begin serving her time at the Century Regional Detention Center before June 5.

On Saturday, a despondent-looking Hilton was seen leaving a chauffeur-driven SUV and stepping into the Beverly Hills restaurant Prego for lunch, reports the New York Post. Like other celebrity Los Angeles County inmates who have been incarcerated in the jail, Hilton will be separated from the general population for her own safety, the Associated Press reports. (Among previous names to have served there is former Lost star Michelle Rodriguez, whose 60-day sentence for violating probation terms after her drunken driving arrest in Hawaii ended after barely more than four hours, due to the jail's being overcrowded.)

Each day, the incarcerated are permitted outside their cells for an hour to shower, watch TV in the day room, participate in outdoor activities or talk on the phone. (Cell phones are not allowed in the jail cells.) As for food, inmates are offered three-poultry-based low-sodium meals a day. The jail's overseer calls it "a very nice place."

By Ken Lee

Inside the Abhiash Wedding

2007-05-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya Bachchan- not so hot to hottest!

2007-05-05T08:59:00.000-07:00

A collage of a not so attractive to a pulse racing face

Aishwarya Rai to play Rani

2007-05-05T05:27:00.000-07:00

The gorgeous Aishwarya Rai is all set to play the famous Indian warrior queen – Rani Lakshmibai – in a film by Ketan Mehta .

The newly wed Bachchan bahu will add a must-have skill to her acting repertoire – learning to use a sword while riding a horse.

Ash will need the skills to play the role Mehta said in an interview on Friday.

``Ash will undergo intensive training,'' Mehta said. ``The role demands a lot of action scenes.''

Ash is to play Rani Lakshmibai, the legendary ruler of Jhansi, who played a key role in the 1857 uprising against India's then British colonial rulers.

Lakshmibai died aged 23 on the battlefield while fighting British soldiers in 1858.

Mehta said he was completing the script for the movie ‘Jhansi Ki Rani’ and the cast would include British actors. He also plans to hire British technicians and trainers for the action sequences.

Ash, who recently married Abhishek Bachchan , will star in the title role.

Mehta’s last film was the Aamir Khan – Rani Mukherjee starrer The Rising two years ago.

Last year, former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen said she planned to produce and star in a separate movie on Rani Lakshmibai, but is yet to announce details of its filming.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the uprising known as Sepoy Mutiny and the First War of Independence.

Q&A on AbhiAsh

2007-04-25T22:47:00.000-07:00

'I am now looking forward to spending time with bahurani'
..as told to TOI

CANDID CONFESSION: We never kept anything under wraps. The day Abhishek informed me that he had proposed, we went across to meet Aishwarya’s family to confirm the union, says Big B

The wedding aroused intense curiosity but was scrupulously kept away from public gaze. Now, for the first time, Amitabh Bachchan tells TOI’s Mohua Chatterjee and Mahendra Kumar Singh about the joy, emotions and frustrations that came with the Abhiash wedding.

Now that Abhishek and Aishwarya are married, can you tell us why it was the news of the wedding kept under wraps until Jaya Bachchan confirmed it on the Filmfare night?

We never kept anything under wraps. The day Abhishek informed me that he had proposed, we went across to meet Aishwarya’s family to confirm the union. This was confirmed to the media by me personally. The date of marriage took time because many things were under consideration. An auspicious date, availability of all concerned — Abhishek and Aishwarya were tremendously busy and in between shooting schedules, as was yours truly. Jaya was busy with Parliament and UP elections as was Amar Singhji — that had to be taken into consideration. Then the extent of the marriage. The guests, the location, the numbers, who to invite and how. And most importantly, how to execute all this with the sensitive issue of my mother lying critically ill in hospital.

Well, are you happy now?

I am grateful to the almighty that everything went off well. We had desired an intimate occasion with relatives and close friends. We had desired a common invitation card, a common venue, common mutual friends, certain sanctity, which all such occasions demand, and we got all of that. It is not easy to conduct the happiest moment in the lives of two people joining in holy and everlasting matrimony without continuously thinking and worrying on my mother’s condition, who is lying critically ill in hospital. So you visit the hospital in the course of the day and see your mother, the epitome of beauty and vibrant energy, lying listless, still, gaunt, a sheer frame of bones, not able to communicate or see or recognise anything or anyone, not able to move a limb, fed by a tube which punctures her stomach, to not be able to hear or respond to her son calling out to her.

And you just stand there by her bedside, helpless and frustrated and you walk out of the hospital, switch your mood diametrically to laughter and gaiety and happiness, for the joy that a son’s marriage would bring to any father in the world to get involved and busy in arranging moments of fun for the happiest and most important day in his son’s life. It’s abnormal and it’s tough and it takes everything to be able to accomplish that with some amount of respect, dignity and resolve. I never wanted to talk about this but I guess you have caught me in an emotional moment and I shall succumb to it, knowing full well that this shall be publicly consumed, perhaps without empathy.

This was easily the most talked about wedding in recent times. How did you feel about the way it played out in the media?

I will not comment on the media attention. But I will say a few things. I, nor any other immediate family member ever asked for media attention. We kept it personal and private. By continuously writing about it, the media made it nauseatingly public. Not a single detail carried had any endorsement from either family of its authenticity. This is not the media’s wedding, it is my son’s and it is my private affair. On the night of the wedding, Abhishek and Aishwarya wanted to seek my mother’s blessings. They were chased and hounded and virtually made captive inside their car at the hospital premises and were unable to come out of it. They had to forgo that moment and left without being able to take the blessings of my mother by touching her feet.

At the time of the bidai, we were running against time. Aishwarya had to step into the house, auspiciously, before sunset. A cruel traffic jam on the highway delayed us. There was another emergency in the car — Amar Singhji took seriously ill. As we neared Prateeksha, photographers mobbed us, stood in front of the car, preventing its movement. In the scuffle that followed with the security, there were unfortunate injuries. I regret that this happened. I have, with folded hands, apologised on behalf of my security to the media. The security involved in the incident was not my personal hired security. Still, they threw stones at my house, they abused me through slogans outside my house throughout the night. I have done whatever best we could do in these circumstances, with utmost dignity. If that is still an issue with the media, I am sorry I cannot do more. I read today that despite all this, they wish to boycott me and my family. What can I say, it’s a free country, everyone has the freedom of his or her rights. I shall respect their decision. Me and my family are not worth it in any case.

Why was the wedding kept such a low key affair when public interest in it was obvious?

My mother’s critical condition.

Your marriage was also a private affair?

Yes, that’s the way Jaya and I wanted it. Abhishek and Aishwarya left it to our discretion and decision how the wedding was to be conducted.

There is a buzz that the exclusive world rights of the marriage visuals have been acquired by a foreign magazine? Do you plan to release them?

This is false and incorrect. No such offer has come and even if it did, we would reject it.

There must be considerable heartburn among fellow actors and others in the industry over the restricted invite list...

We did what we felt right under the circumstance. If they understand it, fine. If they do not, it’s also fine — they were never friends in the first place then.

Would you like Aishwarya to continue with her acting career?

Yes, no problem or issue from us. In fact, Jaya and I have insisted on Aishwarya that she must.

Will the newly-wed couple move out into their own apartment or continue to live with you?

They will live with us. And this decision came voluntarily from both Abhishek and Aishwarya.

How will you feel if she continues to use her maiden surname?

She desires to use Bachchan as her surname. And she signed her first autograph in Tirupati as Aishwarya Bachchan.

There is a lot of curiosity about the rituals that were followed. Was it a mixed affair? Your marriage was also a cross-cultural affair.

The marriage rites were held according to the bride’s desire, in their culture, through their pandits, with their rituals. One pundit did it. One from our side gave the couple blessings after the formal rituals were over. Yes, my marriage was cross-cultural. As a family, my father never believed in caste or cultures. He, a Kayasth, married a Sikh in 1942. I married a Bengali, my brother Ajitabh married a Sindhi, my daughter married a Punjabi, and now my son a south Indian.

Were you really concerned about her being a Manglik?

I do not know what a Manglik is or means, or whether I need to be concerned about it. To me, when two individuals make up their mind to marry, that’s all that matters.

Just before he proposed to Aishwarya, Abhishek along with you and Jayaji had walked all the way to Siddhivinayak temple to seek the blessings of Ganpati. After marriage, the first thing that the family did was to visit Tirupati to seek the blessings of Balaji. You also offered prayers at Varanasi’s Vishwanath temple and at Vindhyachal. Is any of these your family deity?

I do not know what is the meaning of a ‘family deity’. I and my family respect all faiths and religions. My father habitually built little handmade temples in every house we lived in. Apart from temples, I regularly visit the Haji Ali dargah in Mumbai. We have been to all the temples you mention but the reasons given and their timings are all wrong. We walked to Siddhivinayak because we felt like going there, we have done it before on several occasions. We went to Tirupati, twice recently within a week. Varanasi was to offer prayers on my father’s birth anniversary on November 27. We have been holding a kavi sammelan in Lucknow on that day since his passing away. Last year we could not hold a celebration because my mother was in hospital, so Jaya suggested that it would be nice if all of us went to Varanasi to pray instead. So we all got together there. Aishwarya, in Delhi then, expressed a desire to visit the temple. So we took her along — not for some Manglik puja as incorrectly reported. Vindhyachal is the temple where Amar Singhji’s children had their ‘mundan’ ceremony and it is sacred to him. Yes, Aishwarya went too because by then the engagement was announced and she had become family. The ‘sindoor in the maang’ speculation was wrong again. It was a tika from the temple. But yes, the sindoor from the deity there is considered sacred and we did bring some for the wedding. Abhishek put that sindoor in her maang.

Now that the wedding is done, what are you looking forward to?

The extreme joy of coming back home from work to spend time with my bahurani.

Abhiash wedding rights sold to UK TV channel?[

2007-04-24T22:50:00.000-07:00

Rumours- the Bachchans have struck a 5-crore deal with a channel. Have the Bachchans sold the rights of the Abhiash wedding to the Travel & Living channel? According to rumours in Bollywood, a deal was reportedly struck for about Rs 5 crore, although it is learned that the amount could be a little more than that. It was always thought that the Bachchans were keeping the local media at bay for commercial reasons. “If they had sold the rights to cover the wedding to a channel, then they couldn’t possibly allow any Indian media to cover the event,” said a film industry source. According to industry insiders, “Even the photographers who shot the pictures have been bound under confidentiality contracts not to release or reveal any pictures to any media.” The Bachchans are believed to have negotiated with Hello , a top lifestyle magazine based in UK, but the deal fell through. A proposal from an India-based television network too was sent to the Bachchans, but didn’t find favour. Sources reveal that the Bachchans were looking for a foreign channel. And the one with which they struck the deal has a big viewership in the UK where there is a strong Indian population.

This deal is the first of its kind in the history of Bollywood. No other wedding has been sold to any media ever before. The Bachchans took a cue from the Liz Hurley and Arun Nayar wedding. The couple had sold the rights of their wedding for two million pounds to Hello magazine. But unlike the Bachchans, Hurley and Nayar did pose for a picture for mediapersons who were posted outside the wedding venue in Jodhpur.

Britney's Bod looking hot

2007-04-24T19:16:00.000-07:00

Post pregnancy abs sure look great. Still got a way to go!, but definately looking in super shape.

Abhi-Ash destination Cannes

2007-04-23T23:31:00.000-07:00

Abhi-Ash

After marriage the first desi public appearance Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai gave was when the entire Bachchan clan went for a darshan at the Tirupati Balaji shrine. But their major public appearance abroad will be when they visit Cannes Film Festival in May.

Though for former miss world Cannes is nothing new as she makes it a point to visit it every year but this is for the first time she'll be accompanied by her husband Abhishek Bachchan."

Abhiash- Exclusive Wedding Video

2007-04-23T00:27:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya & Abhishek: Exclusive Event Photos

2007-04-22T22:54:00.000-07:00

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