August 31st 2009 Bipasha Basu refuses to smoke on-screen
Bong beauty Bipasha Basu is known for her health and fitness conciousness. Recently, the actress did her part in social welfare by refusing to smoke on screen for her next film ‘Pankh’ directed by Sudipto Chattopadhyay and produced by Sanjay Gupta. Bipasha sent that her smoking on the screen would send wrong message to the viewers. She had earlier refused to smoke on screen for Madhur Bhandarkar’s ‘Corporate’ too and was not happy with her boyfriend John doing ‘No Smoking’. Bipasha refused to even hold a cigarette on screen for the said scene and the director had to finally settle down with showing smoke being emitted from Bipasha’s mouth.
Bipasha is known for her practical and no- nonsense attitude. Lately, she also refused to turn up for the Indian Independence day carnival this year in Chicago when she did not get her remuneration in time. Bips was in London with her John and had to take a flight for Chicago to be the part of the grand South Asian Carnival on 15 August.
“Katrina, Saif, Kareena were holidaying there but I had to take a nine-hour flight to Chicago. I didn’t want to fly without any confirmation,” Bipasha was quoted as saying.
Bipasha is known for her practical and no- nonsense attitude. Lately, she also refused to turn up for the Indian Independence day carnival this year in Chicago when she did not get her remuneration in time. Bips was in London with her John and had to take a flight for Chicago to be the part of the grand South Asian Carnival on 15 August.
“Katrina, Saif, Kareena were holidaying there but I had to take a nine-hour flight to Chicago. I didn’t want to fly without any confirmation,” Bipasha was quoted as saying.
August 31st 2009 Arjun Rampal invites Bollywood biggies to his ‘Lap’
Delhi saw some of its favorite stars in the city as Arjun Rampal launched his new restaurant `Lap` on Friday. The guest list looked impressive as it included Shahrukh Khan with wife Gauri, Hrithik Roshan with wife Suzzane, Karan Johar, Abhay Deol, Koel Puri, Rohit Bal, Imran Khan, and many others.
Shah Rukh Khan said, “Gauri has designed it with Arjun and Meher. I think it would be fabulous. I wish them all the best. I am from Delhi and want everyone to visit this place.”
Arjun said that his restaurant, located inside Samrat Hotel would stand out from the crowd with as it will offer “privacy” to its members and be “exclusive”.
“You have to become a member to know how incredible this place is. Its for people to enjoy. India can proudly say, we have a place to party. Its about privacy, a discovery of yourself,” Rampal said.
“I was waiting for ‘Rock On’ to release. Tomorrow is its first anniversary. I was not coming to Delhi because I needed to make money and give back something to Delhi. Films is my work, that is one of my first priorities. This is just a hobby and passion for me. We are after all entertainers,” he added.
“I love women and want women to feel safe at ‘Lap’. That’s why it’s exclusive,” he smiled.
Shah Rukh Khan said, “Gauri has designed it with Arjun and Meher. I think it would be fabulous. I wish them all the best. I am from Delhi and want everyone to visit this place.”
Arjun said that his restaurant, located inside Samrat Hotel would stand out from the crowd with as it will offer “privacy” to its members and be “exclusive”.
“You have to become a member to know how incredible this place is. Its for people to enjoy. India can proudly say, we have a place to party. Its about privacy, a discovery of yourself,” Rampal said.
“I was waiting for ‘Rock On’ to release. Tomorrow is its first anniversary. I was not coming to Delhi because I needed to make money and give back something to Delhi. Films is my work, that is one of my first priorities. This is just a hobby and passion for me. We are after all entertainers,” he added.
“I love women and want women to feel safe at ‘Lap’. That’s why it’s exclusive,” he smiled.
August 29th 2009 Aishwarya launches Longines Conquest Ceramic series watches
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is the brand ambassador of Swiss watch maker Longines. She was recently in Hyderabad to launch Conquest Ceramic series watches from the brand. She looked million dollars in her black female suit with a perfect business woman look. She cleared a lot of rumors about herself at the event saying that she wasn’t down with Swine Flu and that Abhishek Bachchan is not getting a tattoo of her name inked on his arm. Check out Aishwarya Rai at the event.
August 28th 2009 Priyanka Chopra in 12 different looks
Priyanka Chopra has worked very hard for her forthcoming flick ‘Whats Your Raashee?’ and so it does not come as surprise as she waits with baited breath for the film to hit the screens. Fir the first time in Indian cinema a female star will be playing 12 different roles. Directed by Ashutosh Gowarikar, the movie is an adaptation of the US based Gujarati writer Madhu Rye’s novel Kimball Ravenswood.
The story of the film revolves round Yogesh Patel (Harman Baweja) who always wanted to have love marriage, but must find his life partner within ten days to save his family from a disaster. So, he decides to meet one girl from each raashee – sun sign, so that he will get twelve chances to fall in love. He decides to meet 2 girls in a day. Thus getting him six days to meet them, three days to make a final decision and he can get married on the tenth day.
Priyanka Chopra plays twelve different from twelve zodiac signs named Anjali, Vishakha, Kajal, Hansa, Mallika, Pooja, Rajni, Nandini, Bhavna, Jhankhana, Sanjna, Chandrika respective of zodiac sign. Check out Piggy Chops in12 new dazzling avatars.
The story of the film revolves round Yogesh Patel (Harman Baweja) who always wanted to have love marriage, but must find his life partner within ten days to save his family from a disaster. So, he decides to meet one girl from each raashee – sun sign, so that he will get twelve chances to fall in love. He decides to meet 2 girls in a day. Thus getting him six days to meet them, three days to make a final decision and he can get married on the tenth day.
Priyanka Chopra plays twelve different from twelve zodiac signs named Anjali, Vishakha, Kajal, Hansa, Mallika, Pooja, Rajni, Nandini, Bhavna, Jhankhana, Sanjna, Chandrika respective of zodiac sign. Check out Piggy Chops in12 new dazzling avatars.
August 24th 2009 Arnold Schwarzenegger invited ShahRukh Khan to Washington to diffuse tension
The Terminator hero, Arnold Schwarzenegger, who presently is decorating seat of Governorship of California, has invited Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan to meet him on September 20 in Washington as an effort to diffuse tension resulted from the alleged detention of Shah Rukh Khan US border officials in a New York airport last weekend.
Shah Rukh, who is featured in the list of ‘50 Most Influential People’ told experience at the Newark Airport to be embarrassing. It is still uncertain whether Mr. Khan would accept this invitation. In meantime he has signed £125 million deal with Fox-Searchlight in US to distribute his latest movie ‘My Name is Khan’ that is based on racial tension as erupted aftermath of 9/11 terror attacks.
After retuning back to India, he said, “I am scared of authorities and rules, so I try to follow the rules of the country I travel to,” he said. He again said, “Whenever I am in America, I have to report at least two hours in advance while traveling within the country for security reasons - they ask me to take off my clothes and shoes, and I do that. “But I never experienced this kind of treatment.”
Shah Rukh, who is featured in the list of ‘50 Most Influential People’ told experience at the Newark Airport to be embarrassing. It is still uncertain whether Mr. Khan would accept this invitation. In meantime he has signed £125 million deal with Fox-Searchlight in US to distribute his latest movie ‘My Name is Khan’ that is based on racial tension as erupted aftermath of 9/11 terror attacks.
After retuning back to India, he said, “I am scared of authorities and rules, so I try to follow the rules of the country I travel to,” he said. He again said, “Whenever I am in America, I have to report at least two hours in advance while traveling within the country for security reasons - they ask me to take off my clothes and shoes, and I do that. “But I never experienced this kind of treatment.”
August 24th 2009 Kareena Kapoor yet again on ‘Filmfare’ covers
Size zero girl Kareena Kapoor is the reigning fashion diva of Bollywood. So, it does not come as a surprise when we find glossy magazine covers repeating the pretty lass over and over again. This is the third time Kareena Kapoor is on the covers of ‘Filmfare’ magazine. She sizzles in a bright yellow dress on the September issue of the magazine and looks extremely confident exposing her hot long legs without any footwear. Not to mention here that the girl has as much of right attitude as her acting skills!
August 24th 2009 Rani & Shahid promote ‘Dil Bole Hadippa’ on TV
Rani Mukherjee will be back on silver screen with ‘Dil Bole Hadippa’ after a long time, her last being ‘Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic’. She has taken special efforts in getting a toned body and flaunting it in a bikini. Nevertheless, she is taking keen interest in promoting the film along with her co-star Shahid Kapoor who is on a high these days post his success of ‘Kaminey’.
The duo was seen as special guests on the grand finale of the reality show ‘India’s Got Talent’ on 22nd August on Colors. Shahid awarded the trophy to The Prince Dance group who was declared the winner of this reality show after several relatives and friends of the group, apart from state Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, corporate houses and social activists joined hands to vote en masse for them. They got a staggering Rs.50 lakhs (Rs.5 million) in cash and a swish newly-launched Maruti Suzuki Ritz car as the reward. The group, comprising 26 artistes, all below 22 years of age, spellbound everyone with their act, which was based on episodes from the Mahabharata.
The episode saw Shahid and Rani enjoying the performances and bonding well with the judges Sonali Bendre, Kirron Kher and filmmaker Shekhar Kapoor.
The duo was seen as special guests on the grand finale of the reality show ‘India’s Got Talent’ on 22nd August on Colors. Shahid awarded the trophy to The Prince Dance group who was declared the winner of this reality show after several relatives and friends of the group, apart from state Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, corporate houses and social activists joined hands to vote en masse for them. They got a staggering Rs.50 lakhs (Rs.5 million) in cash and a swish newly-launched Maruti Suzuki Ritz car as the reward. The group, comprising 26 artistes, all below 22 years of age, spellbound everyone with their act, which was based on episodes from the Mahabharata.
The episode saw Shahid and Rani enjoying the performances and bonding well with the judges Sonali Bendre, Kirron Kher and filmmaker Shekhar Kapoor.
August 24th 2009 Ajay Devgan’s unique proposal to Bipasha Basu
After the underwater proposal made by Akshay Kumar to Kareena Kapoor in ‘Kambakkht Ishq’, Ajay Devgan is all set to propose Bipasha Basu from mid-air in director Rohit Shetty’s upcoming comedy ‘All The Best’. The scene has Ajay seated in a sports car dangling 8 feet above the ground and giving out a rose to Bipasha standing on the road.
The scene being risky and difficult took two days planning and an entire day for shoot. The car, being suspended from mid air and Ajay’s need to balance his weight, there was extra precaution needed as Bipasha was standing below the car and nothing could go wrong. To add to it, it had to look completely romantic. The scene has been successfully shot.
Thankfully, everything went fine and the scene was shot during the course of a day.
Besides Ajay and Bipasha, ‘All The Best’ also features Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan and Mugdha Godse. The film is set for Diwali release.
The scene being risky and difficult took two days planning and an entire day for shoot. The car, being suspended from mid air and Ajay’s need to balance his weight, there was extra precaution needed as Bipasha was standing below the car and nothing could go wrong. To add to it, it had to look completely romantic. The scene has been successfully shot.
Thankfully, everything went fine and the scene was shot during the course of a day.
Besides Ajay and Bipasha, ‘All The Best’ also features Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan and Mugdha Godse. The film is set for Diwali release.
August 23rd 2009 Stars sizzle at the 12th Rajiv Gandhi Awards 2009
Held on August 19, 2009, the 12th Rajiv Gandhi Awards saw some glittering celebrities make their presence felt and some top Bollywood stars rock the stage with their sizzling performance. Katrina Kaif and Shahid Kapoor were awarded with trophies in the best actor and actress category. The awards function was organized by the youth wing of the ruling Congress party to celebrate the talent of India’s young achievers. The performers who rocked the stage included Shahid Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Esha Deol and so on.
August 21st 2009 Vivek Oberoi meets Hrithik in Aishwarya’s absence
Aishwarya Rai has had a very ugly and very public breakup with both Salman Khan and Vivek Oberoi and unfortunately both her ex boyfriends have been shooting close to the sets of her film ‘Guzaarish’ in Mehboob Studios in the last few days. Salman was here for his film ‘Veer’ and Vivek was there for a photo shoot for director Rensil D’Silva’s film ‘Kurbaan’.
While Salman opted to stay away from the sets of ‘Guzaarish’ to avoid any uncomfortable situation, Vivek chose another way to avoid meeting Aishwarya and also spend some time with his old friend Hrithik Roshan who is Ash’s co-star in the film. Vivek and Hrithik have grown up together, as they are both from Juhu.
First, Vivek made sure that Ash was not on the sets and then he dropped at the sets to meet Hrithik. What followed was a long, close and hearty chat between two friends. They were later joined by Bhansali.
According to sources, So, Vivek didn’t want to miss the chance of meeting Hrithik.
While Salman opted to stay away from the sets of ‘Guzaarish’ to avoid any uncomfortable situation, Vivek chose another way to avoid meeting Aishwarya and also spend some time with his old friend Hrithik Roshan who is Ash’s co-star in the film. Vivek and Hrithik have grown up together, as they are both from Juhu.
First, Vivek made sure that Ash was not on the sets and then he dropped at the sets to meet Hrithik. What followed was a long, close and hearty chat between two friends. They were later joined by Bhansali.
According to sources, So, Vivek didn’t want to miss the chance of meeting Hrithik.
August 18th 2009 Bollywood shocked on SRK’s detention at US airport
This is probably the most unfortunate incident in Bollywood Superstar SRK’s life when he was detained yesterday at Newark Airport because his surname Khan aroused suspicion in the minds of the immigration authorities. SRK was there to attend a South Asian event in US on the eve of Independence Day.
SRK related the incident saying, “The US has developed religious paranoia over the years. My guard was also denied a visa because he has the same last name as mine. They said I can’t use my phone.”
“I was really hassled at the American Airport because of my name being Khan…The couple of hours of interrogation wanting to know if I know anyone in America while all around people were vouching for me from India and Pakistan (sic).”
“I told them I was a movie star and had recently visited the country for the shooting of my film. Nothing seemed to convince the immigration officer. There were other immigration officers who even vouched for me but this particular officer did not listen to anyone. I even told them I had an invitation from the South Asian community and was there to attend an event.’’
“Only these guys just would not let me through. Finally they allowed me to make a call, which I did and the Indian Consulate helped me through. It was absolutely was uncalled for I think, me having just finished working there for more than a month…just a couple of weeks ago. They said I have a common name which is causing the delay…checked my bags…I felt angry and humiliated.”
But US customs officials denied that Shahrukh had been detained, saying he was questioned for 66 minutes. Elmer Camacho, a spokesman for the US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, said the questioning was part of the agency’s routine process to screen foreign travelers, according to AP reports.
There has been a mixed reaction on SRK’s detention by the Bollywood fraternity. SRK’s friend and producer of his forthcoming ‘My Name Is Khan’, Karan Johar said, “I’m shocked and upset…feeling terrible for Shah Rukh.”
Priyanka Chopra expressed her shock on ‘Twitter’ saying, “Shocking, disturbing and downright disgraceful. It’s such behavior that fuels hatred and racism. SRK’s a world figure for God’s sake. GET REAL!!”
On the other hand, Salman Khan feels there is nothing to be so disturbed. He said,
“It is not such a big deal, when we go there we too have to go through the security check. There have been no attacks there since 9/11 because of their stringent security measures. I think it is a good thing (the security).”
SRK related the incident saying, “The US has developed religious paranoia over the years. My guard was also denied a visa because he has the same last name as mine. They said I can’t use my phone.”
“I was really hassled at the American Airport because of my name being Khan…The couple of hours of interrogation wanting to know if I know anyone in America while all around people were vouching for me from India and Pakistan (sic).”
“I told them I was a movie star and had recently visited the country for the shooting of my film. Nothing seemed to convince the immigration officer. There were other immigration officers who even vouched for me but this particular officer did not listen to anyone. I even told them I had an invitation from the South Asian community and was there to attend an event.’’
“Only these guys just would not let me through. Finally they allowed me to make a call, which I did and the Indian Consulate helped me through. It was absolutely was uncalled for I think, me having just finished working there for more than a month…just a couple of weeks ago. They said I have a common name which is causing the delay…checked my bags…I felt angry and humiliated.”
But US customs officials denied that Shahrukh had been detained, saying he was questioned for 66 minutes. Elmer Camacho, a spokesman for the US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, said the questioning was part of the agency’s routine process to screen foreign travelers, according to AP reports.
There has been a mixed reaction on SRK’s detention by the Bollywood fraternity. SRK’s friend and producer of his forthcoming ‘My Name Is Khan’, Karan Johar said, “I’m shocked and upset…feeling terrible for Shah Rukh.”
Priyanka Chopra expressed her shock on ‘Twitter’ saying, “Shocking, disturbing and downright disgraceful. It’s such behavior that fuels hatred and racism. SRK’s a world figure for God’s sake. GET REAL!!”
On the other hand, Salman Khan feels there is nothing to be so disturbed. He said,
“It is not such a big deal, when we go there we too have to go through the security check. There have been no attacks there since 9/11 because of their stringent security measures. I think it is a good thing (the security).”
Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan was on Saturday (August 15) questioned for two hours at New Jersey’s Newark airport over his surname and was freed only after Indian diplomats intervened.
The Indian government and entertainment industry reacted furiously after the 43-year-old actor, named by Newsweek last year as one of the world's 50 most powerful men, revealed how he was detained and stopped from even using his mobile telephone.
Speaking to CNN-IBN channel on telephone from the US, Shah Rukh appeared to shrug off the embarrassing episode saying he had suffered similar treatment previously too.
The incident happened as the hugely popular actor, whose fans number millions in India and abroad, was on his way to Chicago to attend an event related to India's Independence Day.
Other Bollywood stars like Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan too are set to attend the function.
"They checked me because I was an Asian," the actor said. "They wanted to know why I came to the US and where I am staying."
Shah Rukh's manager Niloufer Qureshi earlier told IANS over telephone from Mumbai: "He was detained because his surname is Khan. He was kept until officials from the Indian embassy intervened."
Asked if he got into trouble because of his giveaway Muslim name, Shah Rukh, who is married to a Hindu, said: "Certain countries have issues with my name." He quickly added: "I am very proud of my name."
Shah Rukh admitted that he became "greatly worried" as the American officials piled him with questions - mainly about his travel to the US.
The actor said a large number of Indians, including organisers of the Chicago event, were waiting outside at the airport to receive him. Indian diplomats came to his rescue when they heard about his plight.
He said it was ironic that the incident happened on the eve of August 15 - when freedom is celebrated by Indians.
"I personally feel it is over and done," he said, sounding conciliatory. Asked if he felt like reacting in a similar way, he replied: "If they want I can frisk Angelina Jolie when she is here (India)."
Undoubtedly one of Bollywood's biggest and most highly paid stars, Shah Rukh has acted in nearly 70 films in a career spanning 17 years.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni Saturday reacted angrily to Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan being detained at a US airport, saying it was not justified.
"I don't think that this manner of detaining the name of religion is justified. But in the United States of America several examples have surfaced where frisking takes place more than required, according to us," Soni, who was the tourism minister in the previous government, told reporters here.
"I have always felt - even when I was frisked there - that the way they frisk us we should do the same for them here," she added.
"He was detained because his surname is Khan. He was kept until officials from the Indian embassy intervened. Now he has been released," Niloufer Qureshi, Shah Rukh's manager, told IANS over telephone from Mumbai.
In April, former president A.P.J. Kalam was also frisked at the Indira Gandhi International Airport here as he was boarding a flight of US carrier Continental Airlines.
The incident had created waves in parliament in July, with MPs from across the spectrum expressing outrage over Kalam being reportedly subjected to a full body check and even asked to remove his footwear as he waited on the aerobridge to board the Newark-bound flight.
Meanwhile, in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesman Vishnu Prakash has said India has taken up the issue with the US embassy and the consul general of
India in New York is in touch with Shah Rukh.
"The matter was taken up with the US embassy," Prakash said.
In a statement, US Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer said: "We are trying to ascertain the facts of the case - to understand what took place."
Shah Rukh was a "global icon" and "he is a very welcome guest in the United States. Many Americans love his films," the envoy added.
Describing Shah Rukh as the "pride of India", Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi expressed surprise he was detained at the airport.
"Shah Rukh Khan is the pride of India. I am quite surprised that he was detained in the Newark airport," Ravi told IANS on the phone from Kochi.
Here's what King Khan's friends and colleagues had to say:
Karan Johar: I am shocked and upset...feeling terrible for Shah Rukh.
Priyanka Chopra: Shocking, disturbing and downright disgraceful. It's such behaviour that fuels hatred and racism. Shah Rukh Khan is a world figure for god's sake. Get real!
Kabir Khan: When I heard this news, I was so surprised...it has almost become a routine - if you have a Muslim name you are bound to be questioned. It happened with me thrice in the US. I was stopped by immigration officials for three to five hours... they don't care whether you are a celebrity or whoever. But when it comes to Shah Rukh, it doesn't take more than 20 seconds to figure out who he is - any search engine (on the Internet) will give more information on him than Hollywood stars Tom Cruise or Brad Pitt and despite that if it took them two hours to figure out, then its harassment. Post 9/11 it is prejudice to have a person's name and religion checked and it is very discouraging as well.
Pritish Nandy: This is the problem with law enforcers worldwide...Truly obnoxious. Cops don't want to recognise anybody. They love to show their power and authority, especially in the US.
Kunal Kohli: It's really disgusting. Even if they had done a Google search on their mobiles, they would have seen who he is. What were they checking for two hours on their super computers? To detain him for two hours is ridiculous, disgusting and an insult to us Indians.
Arindam Chaudhari: Shah Rukh has just finished his film "My Name Is Khan" in which his character tries to prove to the Americans that he is not a terrorist. I'm sure he never thought it would happen in real life too...What a shame! It's shocking and shameful because I am sure Shah Rukh would have had to explain who he is. It's Shah Rukh so it's become big news. But there many who constantly go through this every day. It's really sad.
Eesha Koppikhar: I am not sure of the exact events but if he was detained just because he is a Muslim with Khan as a last name, it is very wrong.
The Indian government and entertainment industry reacted furiously after the 43-year-old actor, named by Newsweek last year as one of the world's 50 most powerful men, revealed how he was detained and stopped from even using his mobile telephone.
Speaking to CNN-IBN channel on telephone from the US, Shah Rukh appeared to shrug off the embarrassing episode saying he had suffered similar treatment previously too.
The incident happened as the hugely popular actor, whose fans number millions in India and abroad, was on his way to Chicago to attend an event related to India's Independence Day.
Other Bollywood stars like Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan too are set to attend the function.
"They checked me because I was an Asian," the actor said. "They wanted to know why I came to the US and where I am staying."
Shah Rukh's manager Niloufer Qureshi earlier told IANS over telephone from Mumbai: "He was detained because his surname is Khan. He was kept until officials from the Indian embassy intervened."
Asked if he got into trouble because of his giveaway Muslim name, Shah Rukh, who is married to a Hindu, said: "Certain countries have issues with my name." He quickly added: "I am very proud of my name."
Shah Rukh admitted that he became "greatly worried" as the American officials piled him with questions - mainly about his travel to the US.
The actor said a large number of Indians, including organisers of the Chicago event, were waiting outside at the airport to receive him. Indian diplomats came to his rescue when they heard about his plight.
He said it was ironic that the incident happened on the eve of August 15 - when freedom is celebrated by Indians.
"I personally feel it is over and done," he said, sounding conciliatory. Asked if he felt like reacting in a similar way, he replied: "If they want I can frisk Angelina Jolie when she is here (India)."
Undoubtedly one of Bollywood's biggest and most highly paid stars, Shah Rukh has acted in nearly 70 films in a career spanning 17 years.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni Saturday reacted angrily to Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan being detained at a US airport, saying it was not justified.
"I don't think that this manner of detaining the name of religion is justified. But in the United States of America several examples have surfaced where frisking takes place more than required, according to us," Soni, who was the tourism minister in the previous government, told reporters here.
"I have always felt - even when I was frisked there - that the way they frisk us we should do the same for them here," she added.
"He was detained because his surname is Khan. He was kept until officials from the Indian embassy intervened. Now he has been released," Niloufer Qureshi, Shah Rukh's manager, told IANS over telephone from Mumbai.
In April, former president A.P.J. Kalam was also frisked at the Indira Gandhi International Airport here as he was boarding a flight of US carrier Continental Airlines.
The incident had created waves in parliament in July, with MPs from across the spectrum expressing outrage over Kalam being reportedly subjected to a full body check and even asked to remove his footwear as he waited on the aerobridge to board the Newark-bound flight.
Meanwhile, in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesman Vishnu Prakash has said India has taken up the issue with the US embassy and the consul general of
India in New York is in touch with Shah Rukh.
"The matter was taken up with the US embassy," Prakash said.
In a statement, US Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer said: "We are trying to ascertain the facts of the case - to understand what took place."
Shah Rukh was a "global icon" and "he is a very welcome guest in the United States. Many Americans love his films," the envoy added.
Describing Shah Rukh as the "pride of India", Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi expressed surprise he was detained at the airport.
"Shah Rukh Khan is the pride of India. I am quite surprised that he was detained in the Newark airport," Ravi told IANS on the phone from Kochi.
Here's what King Khan's friends and colleagues had to say:
Karan Johar: I am shocked and upset...feeling terrible for Shah Rukh.
Priyanka Chopra: Shocking, disturbing and downright disgraceful. It's such behaviour that fuels hatred and racism. Shah Rukh Khan is a world figure for god's sake. Get real!
Kabir Khan: When I heard this news, I was so surprised...it has almost become a routine - if you have a Muslim name you are bound to be questioned. It happened with me thrice in the US. I was stopped by immigration officials for three to five hours... they don't care whether you are a celebrity or whoever. But when it comes to Shah Rukh, it doesn't take more than 20 seconds to figure out who he is - any search engine (on the Internet) will give more information on him than Hollywood stars Tom Cruise or Brad Pitt and despite that if it took them two hours to figure out, then its harassment. Post 9/11 it is prejudice to have a person's name and religion checked and it is very discouraging as well.
Pritish Nandy: This is the problem with law enforcers worldwide...Truly obnoxious. Cops don't want to recognise anybody. They love to show their power and authority, especially in the US.
Kunal Kohli: It's really disgusting. Even if they had done a Google search on their mobiles, they would have seen who he is. What were they checking for two hours on their super computers? To detain him for two hours is ridiculous, disgusting and an insult to us Indians.
Arindam Chaudhari: Shah Rukh has just finished his film "My Name Is Khan" in which his character tries to prove to the Americans that he is not a terrorist. I'm sure he never thought it would happen in real life too...What a shame! It's shocking and shameful because I am sure Shah Rukh would have had to explain who he is. It's Shah Rukh so it's become big news. But there many who constantly go through this every day. It's really sad.
Eesha Koppikhar: I am not sure of the exact events but if he was detained just because he is a Muslim with Khan as a last name, it is very wrong.
August 18th 2009 Indian Government seeks explanation in Shah Rukh detention case in US
In a recent case of alleged forceful detention of Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan for two hours at Newark airport by US authorities led Indian government to seek explanation from US authorities on the incident. As Shah Rukh expressed his anguish on being humiliated as was detained at the airport for having a specific sir name.
However, on the issue, the officials of US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection denied any detention of the star, yet they agreed that he was held for questioning for 66 minutes. Elmer Camacho, a spokesman for the US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection told it to be part of agency’s routine process to check foreign travelers.
The US ambassador to India, Timothy Roehmer, said the embassy is enquiring into the Mr. Khan’s case, he said, “Shah Rukh Khan, the actor and global icon, is a very welcome guest in the United States. Many Americans love his films.” Shah Rukh was on his way from New York to Chicago to participate in an Indian Independence Day celebration when he was checked at New York airport in the state of New Jersey. However, later on Shah Rukh, tried to pacify things by asserting, “I think it’s a procedure that needs to be followed, but an unfortunate procedure.”
However, on the issue, the officials of US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection denied any detention of the star, yet they agreed that he was held for questioning for 66 minutes. Elmer Camacho, a spokesman for the US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection told it to be part of agency’s routine process to check foreign travelers.
The US ambassador to India, Timothy Roehmer, said the embassy is enquiring into the Mr. Khan’s case, he said, “Shah Rukh Khan, the actor and global icon, is a very welcome guest in the United States. Many Americans love his films.” Shah Rukh was on his way from New York to Chicago to participate in an Indian Independence Day celebration when he was checked at New York airport in the state of New Jersey. However, later on Shah Rukh, tried to pacify things by asserting, “I think it’s a procedure that needs to be followed, but an unfortunate procedure.”
Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan - arrested by U.S.A authorities .. It took the intervention of Ambassador of India 17/08/2009
The actor Shah Rukh Khan, a true star in Bollywood, was detained and interrogated by U.S.A authorities at the airport in Newark, according to Hollywood Reporter. They considered him suspect that Khan had come to America to celebrate his country's independence.
For release of Khan, aged 43 years, it took the intervention of U.S. Ambassador to India.
"I was detained and interrogated probably just because my name is Khan," said the actor who has the right to feel humiliated.
Shah Rukh Khan is to play in the film My Name is Khan, about discrimination against Muslim communities after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
For release of Khan, aged 43 years, it took the intervention of U.S. Ambassador to India.
"I was detained and interrogated probably just because my name is Khan," said the actor who has the right to feel humiliated.
Shah Rukh Khan is to play in the film My Name is Khan, about discrimination against Muslim communities after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
The famous actor Shahrukh Khan, U.S.A immigration service detained 16/08/2009
The famous Indian actor Shahrukh Khan was detained on Saturday, the U.S.A immigration service employees, because, according to the star, his name was blacklisted by the computer system of international airport Newark Liberty in New Jersey.
A representative of the Bureau of Customs and Border Control contradicted the words of the actor and his detention at the airport explained by the fact that his luggage had not at the time of delivery. Khan had a talk with employees of the office pending the luggage, which would explain its detention longer than was necessary at the airport, said the official.
U.S.A Embassy in New Delhi was not able to comment on the incident, promising Indian journalists to learn more about what happened. Meanwhile, U.S.A Ambassador to India, Timothy J. Roemer, assured them that Shahrukh Khan is always welcome in the U.S., especially since many Americans his love for movies.
Shahrukh Khan is considered the most famous Bollywood actor, known worldwide. He played roles in 70 movies. The U.S.A is moving to shooting the spot for his new film "My name is Khan" which focuses on racial issues.
A representative of the Bureau of Customs and Border Control contradicted the words of the actor and his detention at the airport explained by the fact that his luggage had not at the time of delivery. Khan had a talk with employees of the office pending the luggage, which would explain its detention longer than was necessary at the airport, said the official.
U.S.A Embassy in New Delhi was not able to comment on the incident, promising Indian journalists to learn more about what happened. Meanwhile, U.S.A Ambassador to India, Timothy J. Roemer, assured them that Shahrukh Khan is always welcome in the U.S., especially since many Americans his love for movies.
Shahrukh Khan is considered the most famous Bollywood actor, known worldwide. He played roles in 70 movies. The U.S.A is moving to shooting the spot for his new film "My name is Khan" which focuses on racial issues.
August 14th 2009 A sneek-peak into ‘My Name Is Khan’
‘My Nmae is Khan’ under the co-production of Karan Johar and Shahrukh Khan has made a record for being the film sold for the highest amount so far. Fox Star Studios have bought the marketing and distribution rights for the film a whopping Rs 100 Crore, thus surpassing Rs. 90 crore deal for Aamir Khan starrer ‘Ghajini’ and Rs 70 Crore deal for ‘Om Shanti Om’.
The film has been made with a budget of 55 Crore and has SRK and Kajol in the main lead. SRK here plays the role of a Muslim who suffers from the Asperger syndrome, a form of autism that impacts social interaction abilities. Things show the plight of the character when he is arrested as a suspected terrorist in post 9/11 Los Angeles after the authorities mistake his disability as suspicious behaviour.
The film has been made with a budget of 55 Crore and has SRK and Kajol in the main lead. SRK here plays the role of a Muslim who suffers from the Asperger syndrome, a form of autism that impacts social interaction abilities. Things show the plight of the character when he is arrested as a suspected terrorist in post 9/11 Los Angeles after the authorities mistake his disability as suspicious behaviour.
August 14th 2009 Deepika Padukone is FHM’s ‘Destiny’s Child’ this month
Deepika Padukone is just a few films old in Bollywood but it would not be wrong to tag her as one of the most beautiful, sensuous and successful actress in the industry today. She has hoards of projects in her hand including films from big banners and reputed brands for endorsement. She is a hot favorite among the magazines as their cover girl.
This month FHM portrays Deepika as ‘The Destiny’s child’ on their cover page. Deepika looks stunning and appealing on the cover as well as the photoshoot though she has just a minimal makeup on.
This month FHM portrays Deepika as ‘The Destiny’s child’ on their cover page. Deepika looks stunning and appealing on the cover as well as the photoshoot though she has just a minimal makeup on.
August 11th 2009 Katrina Kaif ousts Priyanka Chopra from ‘Dostana 2′
After Priyanka Chopra oozing loads of glamour in Karan Johar’s ‘Dostana’, it will be the Salman’s girl, Katrina Kaif who will exude oomph in the sequel to the film. Yes, Salman’s worst nightmares are finally coming true as Katrina Kaif is out to work with some of his worst foes. First it was John in ‘New York’, then it is SRK in Yash Raj’s next flick and finally it is John again in ‘Dostana 2’.
Where ‘Dostana’ had Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham vying for Priyanka Chopra’s attention, the sequle will have two add-ons in the form of Riteish Deshmukh and Shreyas Talpade playing a real gay couple.
Katrina was chosen to play the female after Dharma Productions has auditioned dozens of new girls. Katrina came into picture due to her fresh and pretty face and her growing popularity bar.
Where ‘Dostana’ had Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham vying for Priyanka Chopra’s attention, the sequle will have two add-ons in the form of Riteish Deshmukh and Shreyas Talpade playing a real gay couple.
Katrina was chosen to play the female after Dharma Productions has auditioned dozens of new girls. Katrina came into picture due to her fresh and pretty face and her growing popularity bar.
August 11th 2009 Katrina Kaif & SRK to come together for the first time
Just as she has finished giving a mega hit with Salman Khan’s arch enemy, John Abraham, Katrina Kaif has taken yet another move to show that when it comes to her career, Salman’s enemity with co-stars are not her concern. She has signed a Yash Raj Films opposite SRK to be directed either by Aditya Chopra or Kabir Khan.
Well, Katrina had already made it clear that she had no qualms working with Shahrukh when she joined SRK on his Temptations tour in 2008, shortly after the infamous fight between the two Khans on her 24th birthday celebrations. Later, she had also expressed her desire to work with this superstar.
Now, it seems that her wish has finally come true as Yash Raj banner has grabbed the opportunity of bringing in these two most successful stars together for the first time.
Well, Katrina had already made it clear that she had no qualms working with Shahrukh when she joined SRK on his Temptations tour in 2008, shortly after the infamous fight between the two Khans on her 24th birthday celebrations. Later, she had also expressed her desire to work with this superstar.
Now, it seems that her wish has finally come true as Yash Raj banner has grabbed the opportunity of bringing in these two most successful stars together for the first time.
August 11th 2009 Desi Charlie’s Angels - Mallika, Priyanka & Bipasha
It could not get hotter than this. Imagine the hottest ladies of Bollywood in the hottest avatars as Charlie’s Angels kicking off the bad guys. Well, talking about super hot Mallika Sherawat, Priyanka Chopra and Bipasha Basu, no producer as yet has worked upon the idea of casting them in the desi version of ‘Charlie’s Angels’. It is the tweeting community on Twitter who have come up with this novel idea.
Sherawat and Chopra have been tweeting regularly on this social networking site and both have developed a sort of bonding with each other. Priyanka, for instance, has wished Mallika good luck for her upcoming film ‘Hisss’, whereas Sherawat praised Priyanka for her success in Bollywood.
Mallika, on her Twitter Page @MallikaLA, wrote to Priyanka, “The Twitter people want us to do Charlie’s Angels. They said Bips also so we need to get her on Twitter. Gul (Panag) has a strong support too. Priyanka responded saying, “Sounds rocking!”
We find the idea rocking too. Any producers out there listening?
Sherawat and Chopra have been tweeting regularly on this social networking site and both have developed a sort of bonding with each other. Priyanka, for instance, has wished Mallika good luck for her upcoming film ‘Hisss’, whereas Sherawat praised Priyanka for her success in Bollywood.
Mallika, on her Twitter Page @MallikaLA, wrote to Priyanka, “The Twitter people want us to do Charlie’s Angels. They said Bips also so we need to get her on Twitter. Gul (Panag) has a strong support too. Priyanka responded saying, “Sounds rocking!”
We find the idea rocking too. Any producers out there listening?
August 8th 2009 Rani Mukherjee in a two-piece bikini?
Seems like hot co-stars like Rakhi Sawant and Sherlyn Chopra are giving nightmares to Rani Mukherjee who is known for her plump figure. So, the actress has gone through a strict diet and training regime under the instructions of celebrity trainer Satyadev ‘Satya’ Chaurasia who was also behind Aamir Khan’s six-pack in Ghajini.
So, she is now quite ready with a hot and toned body and will be flaunting skin in a two-piece bikini in her forthcoming film ‘Dil Bole Hadippa’ where she stars opposite Shahid Kapoor. She has shot a promotional remix song for the film in which she has apparently shed all her inhibitions.
In any case, she will be back on screen after a long break and so the actress wants to make the most of it even if it calls for shedding inhibitions.
So, she is now quite ready with a hot and toned body and will be flaunting skin in a two-piece bikini in her forthcoming film ‘Dil Bole Hadippa’ where she stars opposite Shahid Kapoor. She has shot a promotional remix song for the film in which she has apparently shed all her inhibitions.
In any case, she will be back on screen after a long break and so the actress wants to make the most of it even if it calls for shedding inhibitions.
August 8th 2009 Bipasha Basu upset with her directors
Apparently, Bipasha Basu is upset with her producers and directors these days. First, it was the film maker Rituporno Ghosh, who dubbed her voice in her first Bengali film ‘Shob Choritro Kalponik’, without any intimation to her. However, she decided to take it easy when she saw that the dubbing did not have any adverse effects to her performance in the film.
Again, she is upset with directors Daniel Silverman and Tapan Saha who failed to start the shooting of his directorial venture ‘Chimera’(Emothep of Mummy movie) on time. As a result, Bipasha’s dates for Chimera have gone wasted. A few days back, Bipasha had some problems with the script also. The movie which has Bips opposite the Titanic star – Billy Zane, will be a paranormal thriller where Zane plays an American doctor, who takes up an offer in India to work in a hospital where he treats Bipasha.
Again, she is upset with directors Daniel Silverman and Tapan Saha who failed to start the shooting of his directorial venture ‘Chimera’(Emothep of Mummy movie) on time. As a result, Bipasha’s dates for Chimera have gone wasted. A few days back, Bipasha had some problems with the script also. The movie which has Bips opposite the Titanic star – Billy Zane, will be a paranormal thriller where Zane plays an American doctor, who takes up an offer in India to work in a hospital where he treats Bipasha.
August 6th 2009 First Look - What’s Your Rashee?
After the most adorable pair of Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai in ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, Ashutosh Gowarikar is ready with the jodi of Harman Baweja and Priyanka Chopra in ‘What’s Your Rashee?’. However. This pair had created a disaster in 2008 with ‘Love Story 2050’. As the production house releases the poster of the movie revealing 12 different hot avataars of Piggie Chops we hope and wish that the rashees are in place for the pair this year.
The movie revolves around the story of Yogesh Sharma (Harman Baweja) who wants to have a love marriage but due to circumstances, he is supposed to get married in ten day to prevent some disaster which his family may fall into.
As such he selects a girl from every zodiac sign and meets two girls every day and twelve in six days so that he can fall in love twelve times and find the best girl for himself. How things take a turn is a suspense to be discovered by the viewers themselves.
The movie revolves around the story of Yogesh Sharma (Harman Baweja) who wants to have a love marriage but due to circumstances, he is supposed to get married in ten day to prevent some disaster which his family may fall into.
As such he selects a girl from every zodiac sign and meets two girls every day and twelve in six days so that he can fall in love twelve times and find the best girl for himself. How things take a turn is a suspense to be discovered by the viewers themselves.
August 3rd 2009 Abhishek & Aishwarya hide in the jungles of Kerala
Bollywood’s celebrity couple Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan hardly get to spend some romantic time alone given their busy schedules but then this was the last thing they wanted as having to spend time alone in this manner.
It all happened on Wednesday in the jungles of Athirapilly in Kerala where they were shooting for Mani Ratnam’s ‘Raavan’. Abhi-Ash along with Mani Ratnam had gone to check out an elephant which was supposed to participate in the shooting from next week.
The elephant went out of control killing the mahout and taking off on a stampede. As a result, Abhishek, Aishwarya and Mani had to spend their time hiding in the jungles until people who could control the elephant and rescue the couple could reach.
They had to spend around ten hours without food or water until they were rescued late at night. But until then there was no news of their safety and wellbeing and not to mention here that Bachchan family and Aishwarya’s parents were very worried.
Given the amount of pains the unit has taken to shoot ‘Raavan’ right from director’s health scare to an elephant out on stampede to severe viral infections and malaria, this film, when released, will definitely make up for the efforts put in.
It all happened on Wednesday in the jungles of Athirapilly in Kerala where they were shooting for Mani Ratnam’s ‘Raavan’. Abhi-Ash along with Mani Ratnam had gone to check out an elephant which was supposed to participate in the shooting from next week.
The elephant went out of control killing the mahout and taking off on a stampede. As a result, Abhishek, Aishwarya and Mani had to spend their time hiding in the jungles until people who could control the elephant and rescue the couple could reach.
They had to spend around ten hours without food or water until they were rescued late at night. But until then there was no news of their safety and wellbeing and not to mention here that Bachchan family and Aishwarya’s parents were very worried.
Given the amount of pains the unit has taken to shoot ‘Raavan’ right from director’s health scare to an elephant out on stampede to severe viral infections and malaria, this film, when released, will definitely make up for the efforts put in.
August 1st 2009 Priyanka Chopra looks gorgeous at Nokia phones launch
Priyanka Chopra is on a high these days. She has given a row of hits and has bagged in many prestigious awards in recent months. She has some of the most prestigious brands associated with her and given the kind of stunning beauty she has been endowed with, no wonder big companies are in a queue to sign her as their brand ambassador.
Recently, Nokia unveiled new and latest phones Nokia 6700 and Nokia 6303 for the suave and savvy Indian consumers who are looking for superior functionality with premium finish at competitive prices. The launch was made by none other than Piggie Chops who looked absolutely gorgeous and picture perfect in a black mini dress. Check out the shots from the event.
Recently, Nokia unveiled new and latest phones Nokia 6700 and Nokia 6303 for the suave and savvy Indian consumers who are looking for superior functionality with premium finish at competitive prices. The launch was made by none other than Piggie Chops who looked absolutely gorgeous and picture perfect in a black mini dress. Check out the shots from the event.
August 1st 2009 Sensational Shahid and Priyanka on ‘Cineblitz’
How sensuous can a pair get? Check out the latest issue of ‘Cineblitz’ to get an answer to this question. The issue has stunning shots of Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra oozing loads of sensuality and intimacy. The pair is awaiting eagerly for the release of ‘Kaminey’. While the gossip columns are painted red with their so-called romantic linkup, the couple is yet to disclose the truth behind these rumors.
Meanwhile, Shahid opens up in the issue saying that he has had a very public breakup and is definitely not in a mood to make his relationships public any further. The issue also has some candid talks with Shruti Hassan and Irrfan Khan.
Meanwhile, Shahid opens up in the issue saying that he has had a very public breakup and is definitely not in a mood to make his relationships public any further. The issue also has some candid talks with Shruti Hassan and Irrfan Khan.
