'Voice' contestant Christina Grimmie shot dead

Los Angeles, Jun 11, 2016, PTI

Singer Christina Grimmie, who had competed on the US TV programme "The Voice", has died after being shot in Florida, police said.

A man opened fire on her when she was signing autographs after a concert in Orlando. The 22-year-old singer died in a local hospital.

The assailant - who was tackled by Grimmie's brother - then shot and killed himself, reported E! online.

In 2014, Grimmie finished third during season six of "The Voice."

In a tweet, Orlando's police wrote: "With deep regret, we have confirmed Christina Grimmie, @TheRealGrimmie has died from her injuries."

Meanwhile, Grimmie's publicist said: "It is with a heavy heart that we can confirm that Christina has passed and went home to be with the Lord."

A police investigation is now under way into how the suspect had managed to enter the venue with the firearms. News of the attack spread quickly on social media, with many fans voicing their shock and anger.

Grimmie first came to prominence as a teenager for her renditions of hit songs, amassing a huge following on Youtube.

In 2011, she released her debut musical recording "Find Me." Her second EP - Side A - followed in February 2016.

Open to produce regional films, says Dia Mirza

Mumbai, Jun 11, 2016, PTI

Actress-producer Dia Mirza says if given good scripts, she would love to back regional movies because for her the quality of a project matters more than the language it is made in.

Dia turned producer five years ago with romantic film "Love Breakups Zindagi" and though she is quite new as a filmmaker, she is open to venturing into different languages.

"As a producer, my main intention is to tell good stories and if we find some stories that are truly fascinating and we honestly believe in the idea, then language or state or territories are no barriers," Dia told PTI.

Meanwhile, the 34-year-old "Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mei" star is excited about her upcoming maiden Indo-Iranian project, which she has produced and also starred in.

"Salaam Mumbai" features Iranian superstar Mohammad Reza Golzar opposite Dia. The actress said she is proud to have been a part of this film.

"It was fantastic being a part of this international project. Reza Golzar is already a superstar in Iran and is an absolutely enthralling individual to work with.

"He is humble, grounded and so talented! I have learned a lot from him and the entire Iranian crew. Their passion about the art and craft of storytelling is absolutely amazing! It is a matter of great pride to be featured in a first ever Indo-Iranian film," she added.

Besides acting and producing, brand endorsement is what keeps Dia busy nowadays. The model-turned actress has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Suncros, a sunscreen product.

Recently, the Parliamentary panel on consumer affairs, in its recommendation on the Consumer Protection Bill-2015, has called for stringent provisions, including jail term up to five years and penalty of up to Rs 50 lakh if a celebrity endorsed product misfires.

Asked about it, Dia said, "I think it as unfair debate because as a citizen of this country, I believe any product that is made available to me as a consumer, whether it is on a grocery shelf, super market or the medical store has undergone the procedure set up by the Government to ensure our safety."

The former Miss Asia Pacific feels as a consumer one believes it is the responsibility of the Government to keep a check on poor quality or sub-standard products.

"As a consumer, I would like to believe the government is taking care of that. Hence, it is unjust to hold the celebrity endorsing the product responsible as it is the government that needs to be held accountable first."

Bollywood is damaging Indian art: Sitarist Shujaat Khan

Bengaluru, Jun 11, 2016, PTI:

Renowned sitarist Shujaat Khan feels art, including folk music in India, is suffering because of Bollywood and it does not inspire him anymore.

"There is too much of Bollywood for now, and because of that every art is suffering in this country. I am not saying it is a bad thing, but our folk music suffers because of Bollywood. It sometimes gives us lovely music, but sometimes it damages," he told PTI.

The 56-year-old sitarist said he was 'self-content' with his achievements. "I travel world over and perform 100 concerts a year at the best festivals and best concerts where even Amitabh Bachchan cannot go. I performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London. I also performed at Carnegie Hall in New York. He (Bachchan) is a great person, but I am saying we go to places where Bollywood doesn't go," he said.

"Bollywood doesn't inspire me. A three-minute song doesn't inspire me. If I heard artists like Ravi Shankar, Vilayat Khan, Bhimsen Joshi, Amir Khan Saab, I get inspired, for they perform for at least one-and-a-half hours, maximum."

Khan, who is in the city to participate in the 'Fakiri-Bangalore Folk Festival' presented by Phoenix Market City, from June 10 to 12, said he enjoyed the music of RD Burman because of his innovations.

"I enjoyed the music of RD Burman because of his innovations. I too like to innovate. I was the first musician to play a musical instrument and sing as well. I sing qawali, Sufi and folk songs," he said.

Asked to comment on young Bollywood composers who have impressed him, Khan, son of legendary sitar player Ustad Vilayat Khan, said, "Even earlier when I was associated with Bollywood, I did not enjoy a particular music director or a singer. I used to pick songs which I liked, but performed by different composers. So, I cannot pick on one director among the young lots of today. I don't follow one music director."

Khan, previously, had been associated with Bollywood, working with Laxmikant–Pyarelal, OP Nayyar and RD Burman, but stopped working in the Hindi film industry as "the three minutes presentation of songs didn't interest him.

"It was great working with these legends, then, when I was living in Bombay (Mumbai). Instead of three-minute songs, I enjoy performing a one-and-a-half hours concert," he said.

On current young classical musicians, Khan said, "There is no dearth of young talent. Their music is wonderful and vibrant. There is no problem. There are young artists who are still keeping the legacy intact."

On his relationship with his famous father, he said, it had its "little ups and downs" which happens with every son and father, but in his case, it was highlighted more.

"I am the son of a well-known father, and when I left home for sometime it became a big scandal. In terms of music, there was never a problem. He was a great musician and we had a perfect relationship of a student and a teacher.

"If somebody calls me Vilayat Khan ka beta, it is a great honour, but the good thing that has happened in my life is that people don't associate me only with him. They now accept me as an individual who has his own creative style ... People come and enjoy my performance, not because I am his (Vilayat Khan) son, but because of my style of music," he said.

Movie Review: Te3n is a riveting slow-burner

June 10, 2016, PTI

Director: Ribhu Dasgupta
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vidya Balan, Sabyasachi Chakraborty, Padmavati Rao

The ghost of Kahaani romps around unmistakably in Te3n, an intense, psychologically engaging crime drama. After all not only Sujoy Ghosh the producer of this film, it is also, like the earlier film, set in Kolkata.

But this smartly packaged adaptation of the 2013 Korean hit Montage bears a sufficiently strong stamp of originality. The film is, moreover, enlivened by fine performances by the three principal members of the cast led by Amitabh Bachchan.

Director Ribhu Dasgupta's sophomore effort – his first film, Michael, starring Naseeruddin Shah and also set in Kolkata, slipped through the cracks of Mumbai's distribution system and never saw light of day – is marked by an impressive sense of place and human emotion.

That is not to suggest that everything in Te3n is near-perfect. But what the film lacks by way of substance is amply made up for by the flawless camerawork (Tushar Kanti Ray) and the pace-enhancing editing (Gairik Sarkar).

A schoolgirl is kidnapped for ransom. The crime has a tragic end and the victim's grandfather, John Biswas (Amitabh Bachchan), takes it upon himself to bring the perpetrator to book.

Eight years on – that is the point at which the curtain goes up on the story – the septuagenarian is still at it, determined not to give up until his mission is accomplished.

The police officer is charge of the case, Sarika Sarkar (Vidya Balan), and John's ailing wife Nancy (Padmavati Rao) exhort him to move on with his life. Their entreaties have no effect on him.

Another key figure in this thriller is Father Martin, a policeman-turned-priest whose life took a dramatic turn when John's granddaughter went missing and he took the rap for botching up the rescue.

Now, eight years on, both John and Martin get a chance to rid themselves of their overwhelming sense of guilt when the kidnapper strikes again and all the clues link the latest crime to the past one.

The victim this time around is another child, grandson of an old man (Sabyasachi Chakraborty), who spends his days nursing a daughter with a heart condition.

The renewed hunt for the kidnapper launched by Sarita Sarkar draws into its vortex all the key characters amid a string surprising twists and turns.

Te3n does not depend on conventional narrative momentum for effect. It relies instead on subtle cat-and-mouse games that lead up to an intriguing, if somewhat predictable, climax.

The film is made all the more riveting by the quality of the acting. Amitabh Bachchan throws all his weight behind etching out the troubled but tenacious character of John Biswas. The result is often spellbinding.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui, as effortless as ever, is pitch perfect. Vidya Balan, despite being saddled with a role that probably needed a little more writing, holds her own amid the two bravura acts.

Te3n is an edgy, intelligent thriller that proffers more than just superficial thrills.

It abjures the conventions of the genre and delivers a cinematic experience that is rich and rewarding.

While the storytelling is top notch for the most part, in technical terms, too, Te3n belongs right up there with the best that Bollywood can offer.

Shekhar Kapur wants 'Udta Punjab' makers to fight till the end

Mumbai, Jun 10, 2016, PTI

Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has urged the makers of "Udta Punjab", which is embroiled in a censorship battle, to continue their fight with the censor board till the end.

The Abhishek Chaubey-directed film that delves into the drug menace in the state of Punjab, faced troubles with Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) which demanded 89 cuts in the film. It also included removal of the word "Punjab" word from the movie as well its title.

Kapur faced similar situation during his 1994 Phoolan Devi biopic - "Bandit Queen" and even approached the Supreme Court for the release of the film.

"If you truly believe in your film then you must be willing to fight to the end. We did with Bandit Queen all the way to Supreme Court #UdtaPunjab," Kapur, 70, wrote on Twitter.

"Udta Punjab" starring Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Diljit Dosanjh is scheduled for release on June 17.

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Karan Johar, Mahesh Bhatt, Sudhir Mishra among others have come out in support of "Udta Punjab".

Commercial films can also get 'stuck' at censor board: Akshay

Mumbai, Jun 10, 2016, (PTI):

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar feels not only the films with realistic setting, but hardcore commercial movies can also get "stuck" with the Censor Board.

The 48-year-old "Airlift" actor said a film gets "stuck" with the Censor Board irrespective of its genre, and cited and example of his movie "Desi Boyz", which was given an 'A' certificate.

When asked if commercial movies are easily cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Akshay told reporters, "Nothing like that. I made a film which was very entertaining, 'Desi Boyz', it got an adult certificate. Eros International (producer) knows about it. So there's nothing like that. If it gets stuck, it gets stuck."

The actor was speaking at the success party of his latest film "Housefull 3" last night.

Recently, several Bollywood personalities came out in support of Anurag Kashyap-Ekta Kapoor produced film "Udta Punjab", which is embroiled in a controversy with the Censor Board over various cuts in the movie.

The Abhishek Chaubey-directed film is based on drug-related problems prevalent in Punjab.

When asked about his take on the controversy, Akshay chose to stay mum and instead asked his co-star Chunky Pandey to answer the questions about it.
"Chunky Pandey will answer this because Pahlaj ji (Pahlaj Nilhani) gave him his first film, 'Aag Hi Aag'," Akshay said in a lighter vein.

"Pahlaj ji is my godfather, he gave birth to me in this industry. Today a lot of people call me regarding him. I am proud of him," Chunky said.

To this, Akshay joked, "When is the film ('Udta Punjab') releasing? If it gets pushed ahead then humara hi faayda hai, jaise ye keh rahe hai (referring to Chunky)."

Don't think there is need to resurrect my career: Vidya

Mumbai, Jun 10, 2016, PTI:

She was at the top of her game a few years back with films like "The Dirty Picture", "Kahaani" and then came a phase where her films did not do well, but actress Vidya Balan says she doesn't feel the need to resurrect her career.

Vidya brought back the wave of women-centric films in the Hindi film industry. But her later films like "Ghanchakkar", "Bobby Jasoos" and "Humari Adhuri Kahani" failed to create box office magic.

The actress is now all charged up now as her film "Te3n" releases today. Later this year, her much-awaited film "Kahaani 2" is slated for release.

"With every film you have hopes. I see hits and flops as part of career. It is not possible to have only hit or flop films. I don't think there is a need to resurrect my career in any way," Vidya told PTI.

"But I am hoping it ('Kahaani 2') does well. I am doing work and I am happy about it. I don't get worried about the fate of a film any more."

The National Award-winning actress says change is constant, as one can't be there up in the game always.

"Two years back I was supposedly at the top of my game and then few films did not work. But these things are cyclical. When you look at the career of Mr Amitabh Bachchan, he has had so many ups and downs in his career but Mr Bachchan is Mr Bachchan," she said.

The "Paa" actress gets disheartened with failure, but she believes in focusing on doing good work.

"The only answer to all that (hit and flop) is just keep working. I am a human being, I do feel bad and low about it (failure). But then you pull yourself out of it because tomorrow is another day and you have to do something else."

Vidya will be seen as a cop in director Ribhu Dasgupta's "Te3n", that also stars Amitabh Bachchan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.

"In case of 'Te3n', everyone knows I am not there in the film throughout. I have not promoted the film, I am just doing interviews. I think today this much is required. If the producer feels if someone (actor) talks about a film and if it can bring audience to theatres, then why not do it. I would like to do it," she said.

For her role of a cop, the 38-year-old actress had initially expressed her desire to wear the police uniform. But the makers made her understand that it was not required.

"We all have seen policemen in life. We have enough references of cops both from real and reel life. I did not do any special research. I learnt to drive those old police jeeps. Sujoy Ghosh (film's producer) was my trainer, he helped me," Vidya said.

Few people cannot decide what a nation should watch: Rajamouli

New Delhi, Jun 9, 2016 (PTI)

 "Baahubali" director SS Rajamouli has extended his support to "Udta Punjab" team over censorship row, saying a few people cannot decide what the entire nation should watch.

The director, 42, best known for his blockbusters like "Eega" and "Baahubali", said his sympathies are with the filmmakers, who are fighting against the multiple cuts suggested by the board.

"My sympathies lie with the filmmakers as I am a filmmaker myself. The simple logic is how can 6-7 or 10 members decide what is good or not good for the entire nation. Being a family head, I should decide what is good for me, my family or my kids to watch, not someone else," Rajamouli told PTI.

The director is in the city to receive CNN-News 18 'Indian of the Year: Entertainment 2015' award. 

Anupam Kher backs Kashyap in 'Udta Punjab' controversy

Mumbai, Jun 9, 2016, (PTI)

Veteran actor Anupam Kher today became the latest celebrity to lend support to filmmaker Anurag Kashyap in his fight with CBFC over his upcoming film "Udta Punjab".

The row started after the board allegedly demanded 89 cuts in the film, which is based on the issue of drug abuse in Punjab. The cuts also included removal of the word "Punjab" word from the movie as well its title.

"#CBFC role in #UdtaPunjabControversy is most shocking. Cinema is a reflection of society. Sometimes a portrayal can help bring a change," Kher, 61, tweeted.

Earlier celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan and Karan Johar have voiced their support for the team of "Udta Punjab", saying that there should be certification not censorship.  

This is blackmail: Anurag Kashyap on 'Udta Punjab' row

Mumbai, Jun 9, 2016, PTI:

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has said that he felt blackmailed throughout his battle with the Censor Board over the certification for his upcoming movie "Udta Punjab".

Kashyap said in all his previous run-ins with either the board or the government, he never felt he was being silenced, but this particular case was different.

"... I never felt that I was being silenced or blackmailed into doing something against my will. All those battles were a fair fight of belief systems, all those fights were not being lost, not knowing what's going on.

"All those battles we knew who and what the enemy was, be it a person, a thought or just the understanding of the board. This one is different. This was blackmail, this has been a wall of lies. We got the official letter in a day after going to press and immediately after the first hearing of the court," he posted on Facebook.

Kashyap's fresh post came hours after he along with other leading Bollywood celebrities held a joint press meet to express their anger towards board's objections to certain portions of the film, which is based on substance abuse in North Punjab and its effect on youth.

The "Bombay Velvet" director said Pahlaj Nihalani has been lying and pressuring them to delay the release of the film, slated to hit theatres on June 17.

"I have a signed acknowledgment from Mr Nihalani's office dated yesterday 7th June, which requests him to give us the official copy. So him saying he gave the letter on Monday is a lie and proof of all his lies.

"Him pressurising us to delay release, and accepting cuts is and was a thought through strategy. His accusing me of taking money from AAP is not just a lie, is a diversion from the real issue to make the fight for a filmmaker's right into a political battle. And in this he is being helped by all the trolls to make sure that the real issue somewhere is lost in the political blame game."

Kashyap requested his fans to not believe in the gossip being spread online while also making it clear that he had no political affiliation.

"I request to not get involved in any rumour mongering and let us stick to the real honest issue of freedom of expression and free thought and our rights as film makers versus the censorship.

"No I am not a member of AAP or Congress not do I associate with any other political party. I have made more films without a fees than anyone else and I don't take money that is not earned from anyone."

Kashyap, who went through a lot of struggle to release his debut film "Black Friday", said he was writing the Facebook post to tell his side of story as "trolls" were trying to diverse the issue "with blatant lies and accusations".

Giving instances of his past battles with censorship, Kashyap said "Paanch", which everyone believes was banned by censors, was actually cleared by revising committee after a few cuts and two disclaimers.

While "Black Friday" was cleared uncut by censors but the release was blocked by the court as the case was under trial.

The film was cleared for exhibition after two years by Justice Sabharwal, he said, adding the film stayed intact "except some references to Shiv Sena that were cut out under pressure".

"Gulaal", Kashyap said, was stuck in production and only had a few references muted in one dialogue.

The director said delaying the release of "Ugly" was their decision as they wanted to fight the health ministry on anti smoking logo where as "Water", whose screenplay was written by him, was not allowed to shoot at all.

Don't believe in getting stars just for TRPs: Anil Kapoor

Mumbai Jun 9, 2016 (PTI)

 The first season of "24", Anil Kapoor's successful Indian adaptation of international TV show of the same name had stars like Shabana Azmi and Anupam Kher but the senior actor says he does not like to rope in big names just for TRPs.

The actor said many celebrities had expressed their desire to be a part of the show but they opted for only those actors who suited the part in the show.

"'24' is not a show where you can get anybody. It depends on concept, story and casting. The casting is done genuinely and organically," Kapoor told PTI.

"It is not that we would put or have a star just for the heck of it. It is not that the rating is going down so get a star, a celebrity guest. We don't work that way," he said.

"24" is based on the American series of the same name. The Indian version of the show has Kapoor playing the role of Jai Singh Rathod, an ATS Chief. His character is based on Jack Bauer from the international version.

"I wouldn't have played the role of Jack Bauer if I was not sure I can pull it off. Even the international team felt I was perfect for the role," he said.

"As an actor you should know your plus and minus points, there are actors who get carried away and do some roles. There are certain roles you can't do it as it doesn't suit you," he added.

The season two of "24" shows that Mumbai is faced with a new threat -- a virus that can destroy the city - and the Prime Minister (played by Neil Bhoopalam) gets Jai (Anil Kapoor) out of the rehab to save the city.

The 59-year-old star was very much involved when it came to working out the concept for this season.

"I have the rights for all the nine seasons. The director and writer sat down and they felt we should adapt from the third season as it is more relatable," he said.

"I spoke to the international team about it they said they know I will not do anything that will harm the show. They just want '24' to be successful here. We adapted the season three. The inspiration comes from the third season," he added.

To suit the sensibilities of Indian audiences the "Mr India" star and his team did make some changes to the plot.

"The international version (referring to the part of Jack Bauer) did not have a son and a romantic angle but I have in this. There are few other changes...we can't reveal everything," he added.

Some of the new faces on season two of "24" are Surveen Chawla, Sikander Kher, Sakshi Tanwar and others. The show will go on air from this July on Colors channel.

The season one of "24" which was aired in 2013 got lot of appreciation for trying out something novel on the Indian small screen. Kapoor is hopeful that people will like season 2 as well.

"Whoever I have met and whoever who has seen "24" has liked it. It was critically appreciated. We hope this season (season 2) will be more successful. In case of a film Friday matters a lot as the film releases that day, in case of "24" i will be tensed for 24 episodes. There will be pressure," he said.

At a time when kitchen-sink dramas were doing really well on television, Kapoor's 2013 show earned critical acclaim for its gripping storyline and finite format.

Kapoor said that while he feels proud of the show, he does not let the appreciation or criticism affect him.

"People say television (can be divided into) before '24' and after '24'. It feels great when I hear people talking about the show like this. I feel happy. But I don't get carried away with appreciation nor do I get affected by criticism," Kapoor said. 

Did 'Udta Punjab' to break the stereotype: Alia Bhatt

New Delhi, Jun 9, 2016 (PTI)

 Even in a short filmography so far, Alia Bhatt has shown versatility in picking up scripts and the actress says it was this desire to surprise the audience again that made her sign "Udta Punjab".

The 23-year-old actress, who has impressed fans with performances in "Highway" and "2 States", says she has always intended to do roles that people can't imagine her in and character of tough Bihari migrant in "Udta Punjab" is exactly that.

"What attracted me to the film was that no one would really imagine me playing this character and I found that challenging and interesting. I was very happy that here's a role which has no glimpse of it in my previous roles. Also, the story is very important," Alia told PTI.

"Perhaps this is character which even I wouldn't have imagined myself doing but I have always wanted to play roles, which are a bit unlike me, not out of the box necessarily but those which people wouldn't think of me playing."

Apart from working on getting the Bihari accent right, Alia says she worked hard on acquiring the correct body language.

"I took a few workshops to get the right body language. Like, I move my hands and roll my eyes a lot while speaking but these people (in villages) have dead-pan expressions because they can't waste time in expressing themselves to you. They have other things to do."

The actress calls working on "Udta Punjab" an emotional learning because she observed how conditions and situations are difficult for the people in the interiors of the state.

"Seeing how they manage despite all the problems and tough situations make you value your life. Besides learning things for my character, as a person I learnt that we need to be grateful and work harder because we are fortunate to have comfortable lives."

Alia was particularly left touched by the women in these places.
"The toughness that these women have is inspiring. People say women in villages are not strong, can't do anything but they are amazing... They work, support the family and have this no-nonsense attitude, which I think is very cool."

Another aspect of "Udta Punjab" which made the making worthwhile for the young star was working with director Abhishek Chaubey.

"It was fabulous working with him. He has this rare quality of guiding you through the journey of the film and still giving you space to try your own. That's not found in every director and actor. He has the right balance."

Besides Alia, the film also stars Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Diljit Dosanjh.

While the "Kapoor & Sons" star already had a working history with Shahid courtesy their romantic drama "Shaandaar", being on the sets with Kareena and Punjabi star Diljit was a new experience for Alia.

"I made sure I stay on the sets with Kareena as I love watching her on screen. She is magical in front of the camera. She is like moth to the flame, that fiery she is... It was great learning experience to watch her.

"Diljit and I interacted quite a bit and he is a very warm, hardworking guy. We all have worked very hard on this movie and hope it comes out good for us."

Co-produced by Phantom Films and Balaji Motion Pictures,"Udta Punjab", which is currently embroiled in controversy over censorship issues, is scheduled to hit theatres on June 17.

Aamir Khan has always been a leader, inspiration: Anil Kapoor

Mumbai Jun 9, 2016, PTI:

For Anil Kapoor, doing both television shows and films is a tough ask and he looks up to Aamir Khan for inspiration.

Anil has been maintaining a fine balance by doing both television show and films."It is a tough ride to do both TV and films. Aamir Khan has always been a leader and inspiration. He is younger than me and sometimes you learn from them," Anil told reporters here at the trailer launch of "24".

"I remember while doing 'Satyamev Jayate' he did nothing else. I have had lot of film offers including an international film but I couldn't do it as I had to shoot in July-August. We will focus on '24'," he said.

The first season of his television show "24", based on the American series of the same name, came in 2013 and now the "Mr India" actor is back with the second season.

"I work in films as well. I was committed to do two films - 'Dil Dadakane Do', 'Welcome Back'. The kind of show '24' is we need to do that kind of preparation. Writing also takes time. In the future we would take less time," he added.

For the 59-year-old star, doing "24" has been a learning experience. "I am evolving everyday with '24' as a producer and actor. It's been a learning experience. This show is an adaptation but our dream is to make something that will travel all over the world," he added.

Anil insists, no matter what the TRP of "24" would be his passion and dedication for the show will be same. In the show "24", Kapoor plays the role of ATS chief Jai Singh Rathore.

Kapoor, who had cast the likes of Tisca Chopra, Mandira Bedi, Shabana Azmi and Anupam Kher in the first season, will be joined by Sakshi Tanwar, Sikander Kher and Surveen Chawl in the second season.

Udta Punjab reignites political war on drug abuse

Gautam Dheer, June 8, 2016, DHNS

Upcoming Shahid Kapoor-Alia Bhatt starrer Udta Punjab which courted controversy over its expletives in dialogues is fast generating political overtones as the theme of the movie is Punjab’s burning drug problem.

Punjab Assembly elections will be held early next year and  Opposition parties intend to make drug abuse a major election issue much to the chagrin of the ruling SAD-BJP alliance that discounts any such move as an attempt to defame Punjab and its gentry.

The review committee of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which earlier suggested 89 cuts in the film over liberal use of expletives in dialogues, is now seeking to delete the word ‘Punjab’ from its title.  The movie is scheduled to release on June 17.

The committee, it is learnt, wants the film to be set in a fictional land and not Punjab. The Akali Dal apparently has an objection to what the censor board wants to delete. The Congress and the AAP in Punjab are terming the move as a “political conspiracy”, although the Akali Dal says it’s the problem of the censor board and the party has nothing to with it. The man behind the film, Anurag Kashyap, tweetted on Tuesday saying, “There is no film more honest than Udta Punjab. And any person or party opposing it is actually guilty of promoting drugs.” Kashyap is also not impressed with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s unsolicited support for the movie. 

“Please don’t colour my fight with any political affiliation because there is none. I request Congress, AAP and other political parties to stay out of my battle. It’s my Rights vs the Censorship. I speak only on my behalf. It’s my fight verses a dictatorial man sitting there operating like an oligarch in his constituency of censor board, that’s my North Korea,” said Kashyap.

Punjab Congress president Capt Amarinder Singh while condemning CBFC decision said, “If Akali-BJP thinks by banning Udta Punjab they can hide reality of Punjab, they are badly mistaken. More people will now know Punjab’s truth.”

The Akali Dal apprehends the film could be fodder for the opposition Congress and the AAP to drub the ruling SAD-BJP regime on the issue of drug abuse in Punjab. Even in the run up to the elections, opposition parties are leaving no stone unturned to blame the ruling party for the growing drug menace in the state. Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal has maintained that the opposition rhetoric is only an attempt to defame the people of Punjab. 
DH News Service


Movie screening for Benegal
An exclusive screening of Abhishek Chaubey’s controversy-ridden “Udta Punjab” has been organised on Wednesday for eminent filmmaker Shyam Benegal, who heads the government-appointed censor board revamp committee, PTI reports from Mumbai.

The move comes in the wake of the movie’s producer Anurag Kashyap slamming the board for its apparent issues with the film, which deals with problem of substance abuse in Punjab. National Award-winning director Benegal said once he watches the movie, he will be in a position to comment on the controversy surrounding it.

Amarinder slams Censor Board 
Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh on Tuesday slammed the Censor Board, PTI reports from Chandigarh. “It is like taking the soul out of the film’s body,” he said while pointing out that the whole theme of the movie revolved around Punjab and the “devastating” drug problem it faced.

Mohit Suri begins 'Half Girlfriend' shoot

New Delhi, Jun 8, 2016 (PTI)

The shoot of Arjun Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor-starrer "Half Girlfriend", which is being directed by Mohit Suri, has begun here today.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Chetan Bhagat about a Bihari boy in quest of winning over the girl he loves.

"Finally, the story comes to life. Big day as #HalfGirlfriend begins shoot! @mohit11481 @arjunk26 @ShraddhaKapoor," Bhagat, who is one of the producers of the film, posted on Twitter alongside a picture of a clapperboard from the shoot.

Arjun, who plays a basketball player in the film Madhav Jha, wrote, "And so it begins... #halfgirlfriend #basketball @mohitsuri @shraddhakapoor Let's Play!!!"

Suri 's wife, former actress Udita Goswami tweeted, "So, finally the day is here we start a new life for the next few months where you live breathe #HalfGirlfriend. Own it genius! @mohit11481."
"Half Girlfriend" is slated to hit theatres next year.

Anurag Kashyap attacks government on 'Udta Punjab' censorship row

Mumbai, Jun 8, 2016, PTI:

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, one of the producers of "Udta Punjab", has criticised the government, saying it was wrong to politically colour his fight with Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over censorship issue.

"FYI I have fought the UPA more on censorship issues than the NDA. But you know what, there was no Nihalani then," the director-producer tweeted.

The "Gangs of Wasseypur" helmer slammed the alleged "paid" trolls projecting him as an agent of Congress and AAP.

"And it's pathetic that the party supported and paid trolls are trying to make me look like an agent of congress or AAP," he wrote.

Kashyap said he had been working closely with Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore before the controversy.

"Where as I have been working closely with this ministry and the MOS Mr Rathore on the censorship issues.

"And I have all our texts and messages saved so if the govt is trying to make there (sic) incompetence look good then they've picked a wrong person & stop taking out list of cuts made for television of my adult films to show as censored portions of my film to prove a non-existing point."

Upset with the censor board committee's recommendations, Kashyap had tweeted yesterday, "I always wondered what it felt like to live in North Korea. Ab to plane pakadney ki bhi zaroorat nahin."

To which Rathore had said, "Do you think you are living in North Korea? We can have a vote here, it is a democracy."

The "Udta Punjab" storm started after the board purportedly raised certain objections regarding references to Punjab and asked the makers were asked by the revising committee and to make 89 cuts.

Naseeruddin Shah's advice to Randeep, 'Don't plan your career'

Mumbai, Jun 8, 2016, PTI:

Actor Randeep Hooda says his actor friend Naseeruddin Shah has advised him not to plan his career ever.

Randeep has been associated with theater since the beginning of his acting career and is an active member of Naseeruddin Shah's Motley Theater Troupe. He considers Shah as his mentor, friend and confidant.

"There was a time when I wished to get a break and I got a break for three years, not because of lack of work that came to me but because of lack of quality work.
Naseer (Naseeruddin Shah) bhai once told me when I was lying with a broken leg on bed, that the one thing that I am doing wrong is planning my career," Randeep told PTI.

"He said, don't plan your career... It will take its shape, so that is what I have been doing. I want to do good stuff and there is so much diversity in my work," he said.

Now when the "Sarbjit" actor is doing well in his career, he doesn't intend to take a break.

"I wished for a break. I did not have work for three years and I don't want to wish that upon myself again. There are two-three things that are cooking. Let's see what happens first," he said.

With films like "Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster", "Highway", "Jism 2", "Kick", Randeep has always tried to do different kind of roles and he is happy that the industry has been good to him.

"I think, may be it will take few more films in a row for me to get acceptance. But I cannot complain about the industry as I have always got work," he said.

A successful film usually brings offers for the actors and Randeep is fresh out of the success of "Sarbjit".

"'Sarbjit' was a hyped film but my performance in 'Laal Rang' was equally appreciated; it was one of my favourite films. So all this is going to accumulate into my filmography which will be seen by people. I hope I get better films. Every successful film can get me one more opportunity to show my work," he said.

The 39-year-old actor will be seen next in "Do Lafzon Ki Kahani", where he plays an MMA fighter.

"I did my upcoming film 'Do Lafzon Ki Kahani' before I did 'Sarbjit'. I gained weight (for 'Do Lafzon Ki Kahani'). I weighed 95 kg for 'Do Lafzon Ki Kahani' and came down to 65 kg for 'Sarbjit'; it was heartbreaking," Randeep said.

The "Highway" actor is happy that the film has a good blend of romance and action.

"The film has romance, action, good songs. After "Jism 2" and "Murder 3", this is one film in which the songs are best," he said.

The actor has seen the Korean film "Always" on which "Do Lafzon Ki Kahani" is based.

"I wondered why no one is making this film 'Always' in Hindi. Then Deepak Tijori (director) came with this story of two lovely lonely souls living in a foreign country. They meet out of fate and realise they have a connection," he said.

After being in the film industry for around 15 years and showing his versatility, Randeep reveals he still gets petrified to do any role.

"Every role that I get makes me feel petrified...thinking if I will be able to do it. This happens after I have accepted a film. I have not decided what I will do after 'Sultan' but I will try to do something different," the actor said.

This year Randeep would be seen in three films, of which "Sarbjit" has already released and is garnering good response. The other two being "Do Lafzon Ki Kahani" and "Sultan", Randeep feels having back-to-back releases is hectic.

"The promotion part is very tiring. But I think positively about it. I have always tried do something different with every film and people can see the difference in all three films (of 2016)," he added.

Producers of 'Udta Punjab' move HC seeking Censor Board order

Mumbai, Jun 8, 2016 (PTI)

Amid the controversy over drug-themed Bollywood film "Udta Punjab", its producers moved the Bombay High Court today seeking a copy of the order passed by Censor Board's Review Committee purportedly suggesting cuts in the movie and removal of reference to Punjab in it.

The petition said that producers have not yet been given a copy of the order by the government or the Censor Board and that unless they had a copy of the order in hand, how could they proceed in the matter to undertake the amendments purportedly suggested by the Committee on May 3.

The movie is slated for release on June 17.
The petition, filed by Phantom Films, a production and distribution company established by Anurag Kashyap, sought a direction from the high court to the government and the Censor Board to hand over a copy of the review committee's decision on the "objectionable" scenes and dialogues in the film.

The petition, filed through law solicitor film Naik Naik and Co, is slated to come up for hearing before a bench headed by Justice S C Dharmadhikari this afternoon.

The makers of the film are said to have been asked by the Review Committee of Censor Board to remove all references to Punjab and make 89 cuts. Kashyap, however, said they are waiting for an "official letter" from the Board on the issue.

The Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Diljit Dosanjh starrer movie that delves into how the youth in Punjab have succumbed to drugs has also unleashed political sparring prompting Kashyap to ask parties to stay away from the censorship row.

Punjab goes to polls next year.
Kashyap had yesterday hit out at Censor Board chief Pahlaj Nihalani, calling him "oligarch" and "dictator" and that it was like living in North Korea.

He got the support of several filmmakers, including Karan Johar, Mahesh Bhatt, Ram Gopal Varma and Mukesh Bhatt.

"It is a dark day for freedom of expression and creativity in the country," Mukesh Bhatt said, calling Nihalani a "stooge" of the government.

The "Bombay Velvet" director took to Twitter to vent his ire at Censor Board and said there is no sense of freedom.

"I always wondered what it felt like to live in North Korea... Ab to plane pakadney ki bhi zaroorat nahin...," Kashyap posted on Twitter.

"I request Congress, AAP and other political parties to stay out of my battle. It's my Rights vs the Censorship. I speak only on my behalf," he said.

The AAP and Congress had earlier accused Punjab's ruling SAD-BJP alliance of exercising its influence to "censor" the movie, a charge denied by the state government.

Hrithik Roshan teases fans with 'Mohenjo Daro' world

Mumbai, Jun 7, 2016, (PTI);

 Actor Hrithik Roshan has teased his admirers with the motion poster of his much-awaited epic adventure-romance drama "Mohenjo Daro".
The poster, which did not unveil either Hrithik or his leading lady Pooja Hegde's looks, talks about the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro in the era of the Indus Valley civilisation.
"Right guys, here we go," Hrithik posted on Twitter.

"Before the British Raj, the Mughals, Christ, Alexander, Buddha and India as we know it, there was... Mohenjo Daro," the motion poster reads.

Co-written, co-produced and directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, the film is produced by Siddharth Roy Kapur and Sunita A Gowariker.

The facebook page of filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker's states, "Here's a sneak peek into the world of ?#?MohenjoDaro?!!!"

Based on romance through the cultures and ancient civilisations of Mohenjo Daro, Gowariker took over three years to develop the film with the help archaeologists who documented the discovery of Indus Valley civilisation.

The film was shot in Bhuj and Mumbai with short schedules in Jabalpur and Thane.
It is scheduled to release on August 12

Dad brings positivity on the sets: Shruti Haasan

Mumbai, Jun 7m 2016, (PTI)

Actress Shruti Haasan is honoured to share screen space with father Kamal Haasan in upcoming trilingual action-comedy "Sabash Naidu".
The "Welcome Back" actress, who began the shooting today, took to Twitter to share her excitement.

"Fantastic first day of shoot - so honoured to be Working with my father- he brings so much positivity and passion to a set #sabashnaidu," the 30-year-old actress wrote.

There are reports that a Tamil Dalit association has filed a complaint against Kamal's movie at the collector's office in Coimbatore, alleging that the movie only promotes one caste over the others.

The association has also asked the collector to stall the shooting of the movie.Kamal, however, tweeted that shooting started smoothly.

"First day's shooting going smoothly for the two Naidus and one Kundu. Great dancers great crew," he added.

For the movie, Ilaiyaraaja and Haasan are joining hands after a gap of ten years.The film is a spin-off of Kamal's 2008 film "Dasavatharam". "Sabash Naidu" will be shot simultaneously in three languages - Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi.  

It's like living in North Korea: Kashyap on Udta Punjab storm

Mumbai, Jun 7, 2016, (PTI);

Anurag Kashyap, one of the producers of "Udta Punjab", has compared the ongoing censorship regarding his upcoming film "Udta Punjab" to the dictator regime of North Korea.
The "Bombay Velvet" director said there is no sense of freedom here.
"I always wondered what it felt like to live in North Korea... Ab to plane pakadney ki bhi zaroorat nahin...," he posted on Twitter.

The 43-year-old filmmaker's tweet came after Censor Board had purportedly raised certain objections regarding references to Punjab following which the movie may have to go through some changes.

"Udta Punjab", starring Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt and Diljit Dosanjh in a pivotal role, deals with the substance abuse in Northen part of the state and its effects on the youth.

"There is no film more honest than UDTA PUNJAB... And any person or party opposing it is actually GUILTY of promoting drugs," Kashyap added.

Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the film is slated to release on June 17.

B-Town slams censorship on 'Udta Punjab'

Mumbai, Jun 7, 2016 (PTI)

 Filmmakers including Karan Johar, Mahesh Bhatt, Ram Gopal Varma among others today criticised Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for censoring the content of upcoming film "Udta Punjab".
The Abhishek Chaubey-directed movie, co-produced by Phantom and Balaji Films, deals with the substance abuse in Northern part of the state and its effects on the youth.

"#UdtaPunjab speaks of the reality of our times... Censoring reality amounts to delusion... The fraternity has to stand by what's right!!" Johar posted on Twitter.

The strong reactions from the film industry came after the Censor Board purportedly raised certain objections regarding references to Punjab.

It has been said the Shahid Kapoor-Kareena Kapoor Khan starrer might have to undergo some changes due to the board's disapproval.

Sudhir Mishra, who has had his share of run-ins with the board , tweeted, "No film shud be censored. Only be certified. Lot of blood, sweat has gone into the making. But the answer is to make brave films."

Bhatt, whose daughter Alia is playing one of the leads in the film, said censorship is similar to ignorance.

"Censorship is the child of fear and the father of ignorance". Is Pahalaj Nihalani listening? The Censors says I am the one who says the last sentence on UDTA PUNJAB .The nation can say what it wants our verdict is going to stick. Why should I censor myself to nourish ignorance."

National award-winning filmmaker Hansal Mehta, who faced an opposition from the board before the release of his last film "Aligarh"    , said the row surrounding "Udta Punjab" has made him angry.

"What is this I'm hearing about #UdtaPunjab? Makes me very, very angry. Can the truth defame a state? #UdtaPunjabCensored Delusion or collusion? Why is the establishment so scared of films that mirror reality? #UdtaPunjabCensored," tweeted an agitated Hansal.

Actor Ranvir Shorey requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene into the matter.
"Dear @PMOIndia, please put an end to this constant BLACKMAILING of the film fraternity by the CBFC. Films aren't causing #India's problems!"