Tare Zameen Par

The best thing about "Taare Zameen Par", besides as a film, is perhaps is its timing considering the rising instances of corporal punishment by teachers in schools. The film not only tells a story of a Dyslexic child who has difficulty in reading and writing, but also reflects the "understated terror" low-scoring students go through in schools and at homes due to high expectations.

The film is about a 'Taara' (gifted children) Ishaan Awasthi (Darsheel Safary), a class third student who whenever tries to read find the letters dancing in front of him and makes mirror images of letters in his notebook. And as many parents do, they scold him for failing in third standard and continuing to be a low(est) scorer in the class.

Not able to cope up with his "normal" classmates, this boy with "above normal intelligence" stands outside his class perpetually. So, in the "free time" he gets, this "bindaas" kid likes to explore "inane" things like bright colours, fishes, stars, planets etc. which make his world.

But sadly, his over-ambitious busy executive father and discipline-demanding-ruthless teachers don't appreciate his idea of life as they have a responsibility to "prepare him for the race of life".

The frustrated parents, who ignore his other talents, punish him by sending him to a boarding school, as his "topper" brother - who concedes to his special ability to solve difficult puzzles and paint - looks on.

The only other person who spots his potential as a painter is his art teacher, Ram Shankar Nikumbh (Aamir Khan) at the boarding school, who later helps the child overcome his loss of confidence and shine above all.

A pure fun for the kids, the film is equally fun for the parents besides a message to for them be sensitive towards their children's dreams and abilities. The eleven-year-old Darsheel Safary is an absolute delight before intermission and a revelation of talent in second half.

He with his exploration of happiness in nature makes you realise the missing essence of life and you can't help but envy him. He carries off the entire first half on his shoulders, that too without Aamir Khan, and succeeds too. A student of Shiamak Davar's dance workshop, Darsheel impresses in many scene than just one and even where she share the screen space all-alone.

Aamir, who as an actor enters the film only by interval, makes an impressive debut as a director. He lends respect to the sensitive subject is chose for his "accidental" maiden directorial venture by his equally concerned treatment. (Aamir went behind the camera for "Taare..." after a lot of names including writer Amol Gupte didn't materialise.)

The only thing that perhaps does not gel well with the film Aamir's fashionable attire for the character he plays. Coupled with his trendy hair do and cool casuals, his college-goer look kind of distracts attention from the otherwise almost flawless film.

Even otherwise, the perfectionist needs applause for his dare to attempt such non-masala stuff, and that too for his debut as a director.

Also, all those who criticised Ashutosh Gowarikar for using "documentary Indian faces" in his Shah Rukh Khan starrer "Swades" are in for surprise. This film has some nice documentary footage of underprivileged kids along with closing credits, and audience cherished their energy, joy and optimism.

The film has cinematography by Setu,lyrics by Prasoon Joshi and music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy.

Enjoyable for all, the film is a must watch for those who have with kids studying in primary classes and below, and, last but not the least, their teachers.

A.R.Rahman As a Singer

A.R Rahman is surely the hot thing in Bollywood now. A couple of days ago, it was buzzed that noted band ‘Kailasa’ has invited Rahman to croon out for them. Now, news is ripe that two of bollywood’s eminent music directors are eyeing on Rahman to hum for them as well.

It is nothing unobvious for a music director to sing for other musicians. Earlier composers like M.S. Viswanathan and Shankar had crooned for others. However, of late, this trend had taken a backseat in Bollywood owing to ego clashes between the musical big shots.

Lately, Rahman’s songs have caught all his Bollywood fans in frenzy. His fine singing act in ‘Guru’, ‘Swades’, ‘Lagaan’ and ‘Dil Se’ has left his fans craving for more.

Buzz is that Himesh Reshammiya, who has sworn to sing only for A.R Rahman other than his own compositions, has expressed his desire to rope in Rahman to croon for him. Close at heels is Adnan Sami who too has placed a similar offer in front of him.

Commenting on the offers Rahman said, “It’s extremely kind of them to think of me, but I can’t just sing like that. When I render a track, I cut myself off from other things. Even for a concert, a couple of days before it I don’t pursue my other music stuff, but just concentrate on the singing.”

Further Rahman added that he hasn’t turned down the offers but will be free to consider them only after he winds up with his present project.

So does that imply a no from the musician? Well, that’s only for him to tell!

aaja nachle

Top nautch. That's Madhuri Dixit in her comeback. Chiselled, charming, chirpy and enchanting, Madhuri dances her way into the tailor made plot and takes to the screen like she has never been away.

Writer Jaideep Sahni has given the gorgeous Dixit a role she can sink her teeth into. The character is rebellious and yet ravishing. A dancer returns from the US to a small conservative town years after she eloped with an American. What happened to her cross-cultural marriage is quickly swept under the carpet in one voice-over statement. She brings with her a cynical little daughter who keeps wondering when she can go home. Frankly, after a while, so do we.

Cinematographer turned director Anil Mehta furnishes the story of a culture clash and the prodigal daughter's return to her roots with a minty melt-in-the-mouth sensation. You have it. And you move on.

In a film that addresses itself to the critical question of cultural erosion, there's a lamentable lack of lucidity in the narration. You are given the characters that govern the theme but you aren't given a chance to look at their lives and socio-cultural conflicts in any depth or detail.

Too many people inhabit Mehta's quaint, appealing, but finally unsubstantiated world of half-lived dreams and forgotten values.

The screenplay resorts to the oldest trick in the book of inspirational art. A bunch of chronic losers are provided encouragement and final triumph with the help of a disgraced coach.

'Aaja Nachle' takes the 'Lagaan' and 'Chak De India' scenario and trans-locates it to the fine arts. The results are fitfully humorous and enticing but never exploratory in any serious or durable way.

Madhuri's character is spunky, fiery, and acerbic, and is liable to give the sardonic businessman (Akshay Khanna in a surprisingly warm cameo) a tongue-lashing with the same ferocity that she invests into sweet-talking the local politician (Akhilendra Mishra) into political patronage.

But somewhere the romantic sub-plot featuring Kunal Kapoor and Konkona Sen Sharma as the local goon and female buffoon, respectively, gets the better of the narration.

In the second-half, Anil Mehta's storytelling begins to sag. Thankfully, Madhuri's acting does not.

Stunningly statuesque and expressive, she carries the weight of the over-populated plot on her frail shoulders with endearing enthusiasm. But even Madhuri is unequal to the task when the absurdities begin to pile up in a plot that culminates in the naive idealism of the lengthy Laila-Majnu skit.

Though there's much talk of sanskriti (culture), kalaa (art) and sabhyata (civilisation) in the dialogues, none of this gets a roomy or deep representation in any of the sequences. Too busy cutting the scenes into trendy snippets, the editor somewhere loses the essence and spirit of the cultural theme.

The multitudinous characters of the dusty town, brilliantly captured on camera by Mohanan, prepare for a dance ballet on Laila-Majnu with as much seriousness as a bunch of kindergarten students putting together a birthday skit for their favourite teacher.

Besides the majestic Madhuri, the rest of talented cast also gets seriously supportive in this pale tale of losers and hooters. Standing out in the vast cast are Ranbir Shorey as Madhuri's still besotted jilted husband-to-be and Vinay Pathak as her stuffy landlord who learns to loosen up.

The actors rise and shine even when they are given ridiculous lines to mouth. For example, Irrfan Khan as the stereotypical real-estate shark sinks his teeth into a role that requires an out-and-out filmy villainy.

The choreography, sets and costumes convey no sense of continuity. In the climax, gym-built beefcakes emerge from nowhere in the backward town to line up as dancers. The venue for dance performances looks like a plaster of Paris representation of Roman ruins. While the plot talks of fine arts and culture, Madhuri's dances look like carryovers from her dhak-dhak days.

Having said all this, let's make it explicitly clear that 'Aaja Nachle' rises notches above the routine. Its heart is in the right place, even if the rationale of staging a musical play to redeem a sagging town falls apart somewhere down the line.

Selvaraghavan's B'wood debut with Vivek Oberoi

Bollywood is no more too far fetched for Tamil Cinema now. It was only the very lucky (or successful) directors who were really able to score a Bollywood big one. Among them are Bharatiraja and K Bhagyaraaj. Some of these directors had very bad experiences and jumped straight back into Tamil Cinema.

But in the changing of trends, many young and upcoming directors have found a good opening in Bollywood. The nig boys of Bollywood, The Khans and the Bachchans, seem to be very eager to get things going with South Indian film directors – even those who are making their debut in Bollywood. At present, Prabhudeva is working with Salman Khan in Pokkiri Hindi remake and AR Murugadoss is working on the Ghajini Hindi remake with Aamir Khan.

Now add another top-notch director to that list - Selvaraghavan. He has tasted success with Tamil Cinema over and over again. Now he will work with none other than Vivek Oberoi. The film is the Hindi remake of 7G Rainbow Colony.


The star recently visited Chennai, the place where he was born, and watched the orignal film with Dhanush and Selvaraghavan. After watching the film, he was on the top of the world and asked the director to start the work of the film as soon as possible. He later dined with Selva and his family. Selva will first finish the shooting of Aayirathil Oruvan before starting the shooting of the film.

Selva will direct his debut Hindi movie after the completion of Aayirathil Oruvan.

Jodha Akbar

Ashutosh Gowariker’s film Jodha Akbar is one hugely anticipated film. The man who delivered two finest fines in the past years, Swades and Lagaan, is back. And this time with a historical movie. Surely Ashutosh is not afraid of exploring unexplored zones. Ashustosh also has a great cast for his film Jodha Akbar. Hrithik Roshan plays the Mughal Emperor, Akbar while Aishwarya Rai plays Akbar’s wife, the Rajput princess, Jodha.

I did not quite enjoy Hrithik’s and Aishwarya’s chemistry in Dhoom 2. Surely expecting Ashutosh Gowariker to create magical romance between the two in Jodha Akbar.

Just recently the look of Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai for Jodha Akbar was revealed by Ashutosh. If you thought Sanjay Leela Bhansali was clever by hiding Ranbir and Sonam Kapoor in Saawariya, then you gotta check this picture out.

There’s a certain royal quality to Hrithik’s face and body language. As for Aishwarya, to me she’s the quintessential princess…straight out of Amar Chitra Katha….the distressed princess waiting in her chamber to be rescued. Aishwarya has the elegance and of course the beauty. Calling her beautiful is an understatement. Though we’ve seen her in so many avatars as Jodha she’s something else. Hrithik and Ash are amazing together.




Hrithik Roshan

After receiving rave reviews for Dhoom 2, Hrithik Roshan is heading towards yet another milestone in his career. And this time it’s a role of a life time, that of Emperor Akbar that he’s portraying in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s mega epic Jodha Akbar. And to give himself a more authentic royal look, Hrithik will be spotted with a moustache in the film. From his muscular look in Dhoom 2 to the royal look, Hrithik seems to be giving perfectionist Aamir some tough competition!

After learning Wushu (a martial art) for Krrish and ice skating for Dhoom 2, the actor is undergoing special training to ride an elephant adeptly and convincingly for Ashutosh Gowarikar’s Akbar Jodha, ..

Given that Hritik prefers to do all his stunts himself, he will do the same in Akbar Jodha too. “Action director Ravi Diwan has composed the war sequence keeping Hrithik’s calibre as an actor in mind. It won’t be like Krrish or Dhoom 2, the film will be mostly about hand-to-hand fight. Hrithik even asked me to change the grip of the sword because he wanted to feel comfortable while doing the scenes,” says Nitin.



In an interview to Mumbai Mirror in the past, Hrithik had said, “I have complete faith in Ashutosh’s directorial capability. Had it been any other director, I wouldn’t have agreed to do a period film. For Akbar Jodha, I will start reading books on Mughal history, especially on Emperor Akbar. All I can say about the film is that the depiction of Akbar is nothing like what we have seen in the past. It’s sad that whenever we talk of historical films, people have an image of a theatrical representation of the era. But Ashu’s film will be far more real and a true representation of the era.” Scholar, Haider Ali Sahib is helping Ashutosh with the research for the film.

Actor Hrithik Roshan is, apparently, a thorough professional who does not believe in half-measures.Currently he has shifted base to Karjat, approximately 100 kilometre from Mumbai where Ashutosh Gowariker’s Jodha Akbar is being canned.Now, given the Mumbai traffic, the commute to Karjat would take him a minimum of three hours one way, so the actor has hit upon a novel idea.

Ashok Vasodia, his secretary revealed to our sources that the star has hired a helicopter that takes off from the set and lands the star at Juhu aerodrome in 15 minutes flat.It is noteworthy that Hrithik is picking up the tab for his travels unlike many other star brats who would expect the producers to foot the bill!

When contacted, Sunaina Roshan confirmed the news, saying, “Hrithik’s schedule was very hectic and I guess, this way he saves a lot of valuable time. It just takes him 20 minutes to reach Mumbai this way. Otherwise he simply ended up spending all his time travelling to and from Karjat.”

Aishwarya Rai

While Aishwarya was shooting in London for `Provoked‘, she got an SMS from Gowarikar, which read “WILL U B MY JODHA?” And Ash instantly responded by saying yes and the two later met in Mumbai and shook hands on the deal.

“Ashutosh had made it clear from the start that it would be either a new girl or me for Jodha. I respected his clear-headed thinking. When he came to me I was delighted.”,says Aishwarya Rai.



An admirer of Gowarikar’s works, Ash is all praise for his commitment. “I love the painstaking research he does for each film. It showed in Lagaan and Swades .

“For ‘Jodha-Akbar‘, he’s going into reams and reams of homework. It’s almost like rediscovering a whole new era with the director…a very fascinating process for any actor, specially at a time when he or she is trying to discover new facets to her personality, like I am.”

Ash was all praise for Hrithik.

“I’ve done a world tour with him. He’s such a focused, dedicated and passionate actor. Working with him would definitely be an enriching experience. With every film I hope to evolve as an actor. With someone like Hrithik for a co-star that process of growth becomes even easier.”


Video : Hrithik Talks About Jodha Akbar:-

Ghajini By Aamir

Jiah Khan made hot news the moment she made her debut on the big screen with the controversial Nishabd, opposite Amitabh Bachchan. And now the sultry beauty has made news again. The latest is that Jiah Khan has bagged a role opposite none other than Aamir Khan in the much talked about Ghajini.

According to sources Jiah Khan and Tamil actress Asin will be paired opposite Aamir Khan in this hindi remake of Christopher Nolan’s thriller Memento. Ghajini revolves around an amnesiac man’s hunt for his fiancée’s killer.

Initially, Ayesha Takia was supposed to do one of the lead roles, but she later backed out of Ghajini for unknown reasons. Kangana Ranaut then signed the film, however, when the actress went to town proclaiming her good fortune, Aamir reportedly got quite pisssed off with her and decided to drop the idea of casting her. Priyanka Chopra was then said to be next in line for the same role, and the actress, reports claimed, was very keen to sign the film. Unfortunately, that was not to be. So now its Jiah Khan opposite Aamir Khan for Ghajini and hopefully there will not be further changes. So that’s another feather onto Jiah khan’s cap.

I have seen the original film Memento and the screenplay, editing, story, direction are just fantastic. It’s a top notch film and to be able to replicate it will be a tough task. Thank God, Ghajini will be having Bollywood’s finest actor Aamir Khan playing the lead role. Just waiting to see how Bollywood be able to remake Memento. Hope its not a let down.



Aamir Khan is also reportedly going to sport a bald look in the film. However, Aamir will not have a bald look throughout the film. Only the second half of the Ghajini demands that he have no hair. So the extra professional Aamir khan is going to go the bald way….
Sources reveal that Aamir Khan does not have any apprehensions about the new look.He was given the option of wearing a wig, but turned it down. Way to go Aamir we need more actors like you in Bollywood.

Here’s a trailer of Memento. Watch the video and see what you can expect out of Ghajini.



 Though the pictures do not look impressive, we hope that they come out better after digital processing in the post production.

Ghajini is a physcological thriller and has Aamir Khan, Asin ( South actress) and Jiah Khan. The movie is inspired from the cult English classic, Memento.

Century for shivaji

September 22, 2007

 Is the day that we all knew would surely come. It was done and decided that such a day would happen and it would be celebrated in a fitting fashion. Even before June 15th we knew that September 22 would be special. Today Sivaji completes 100 days in theaters and without much argument the past 100 days have been the best in the history of Tamil cinema. Close to 500 theaters, more than 7 states in India and more than 7 foreign countries- neighbors, Asian, European and American.



That was the number of theaters that showed Sivaji on June 15th and today 100 days from that date nearly 200 theaters are still showing the movie. Some of them are in Kerala, in Karnataka, some others are in Canada and Britain. Rarely does a movie have such a wide reach, rarely are so many tickets sold for a single movie, rarely do so man people go crazy over one man, rarely do cinema and history go hand in hand.

But when it is Superstar in action we know that history is in the making. It is much like Sachin Tendulkar batting; when he bats he has only one record to break- his own. When a Rajinikanth movie releases it has to get better of only the previous Rajini movie. Everything else is a foregone conclusion. It was the same with Sivaji. The only thing everyone wanted to know was whether it would do better than Chandramukhi and today we have the answer for you- very easy to guess.

Yes. Sivaji is Rajini’s-Tamil cinema’s biggest ever in terms of, well….. everything that you can think of. The biggest and best combination of sheer talent, star power and tradition that Tamil cinema has seen.


The biggest budget, the biggest release and of course the biggest hit… it doesn’t get any bigger and there is only one man who can make things bigger- Superstar himself, when he chooses to do so. If Shankar and Rahman are amongst the greatest in their chosen fields of expertise and AVM is the production house most steeped in tradition. That was the stage that was set for the Superstar effect to unleash; this was the only stage that could do justice to awesome potential that a Superstar movie has to offer. And what was done was more than just justice. Sivaji is not about the creation of a hit, it is about the creation of new frontiers, new benchmarks which will spur others in Tamil cinema to work harder, to go higher and expect more out of themselves.


What this Superstar movie has proved is that “Success is a journey, not a destination”. The pursuit of excellence never stops and there is no place for complacency, no matter how big a star you are, no matter how sure of success you may be.

We all might think that Rajinikanth has nothing to prove to anyone; he’s been there and done that, given the biggest hits Indian cinema has known, reached the pinnacles of stardom, become the idol of crores and yet in each frame of Sivaji you can see the efforts that he has taken, the hard work he has put in, the new things he has tried and done to make the movie an unforgettable one for all of us as if he is a newcomer who still has to prove his mettle to everyone.



They say, ‘only a retired actor has nothing to prove to anyone’ and that’s what Superstar seems to be following and thank God he has not shown any inclination towards retirement, in fact the next Superstar movie is almost sure to happen (at least we like to believe in that) quite soon.

It would be sacrilege to not give special mention to everyone involved in the creation of this movie. Shankar, we need not tell you how good he is at doing what he did in Sivaji. Painting larger than life characters on a larger than life canvas is his bread and butter but in Sivaji he gave new dimensions to the term ‘larger than life’. Rahman might indisputably be the best music director in India at the moment but the efforts that he put into this project are obvious to all music lovers; its one thing to give good tunes but it takes a lot of dedication to travel around the world in search of new sounds, new kinds of music and put them together to create a great album. K.V. Anandh grabbed the opportunity to be part of such a great team and gave his best work yet and AVM was always there to provide everything that the team needed to enable them create a product that would be yet another feather in the cap of this haloed production house. It was as if everyone realized that they were not working on just another movie. Sivaji is the result of that realization.



Sivaji is not ‘great cinema’ in the context in which critics use the quote. But then no one pretended it is. Neither the director nor producer ever said that it was going to be one. What they set out to make was a Superstar movie, for the countless Superstar fans (me and you) to enjoy and cherish. They set out to create a thing of beauty that will remain a joy forever and they achieved everything they set out to and more. They created history and today history is in its 100th day and we know that it is just the beginning.

Ajith in Kireedom

Kireedom is the next big release after Sivaji and everyone is waiting for the release of this family drama starring Ajith and Trisha. G.V.Prakash made his presence felt with his very first album and when he joins hands with 'Thala' Ajith Kumar, it is sure to spark curiosity.

Lets see how the young G.V.Prakash fares,

Vizhiyil

The very first song starts with an impressive note and G.V.Prakash shows his mastery over slow paced romantic song. Inspiring orchestration, smooth and romantic sounds make this number a treat for all the fans of Ajith. The singers Sonu Nigam & Swetha do their work with perfect élan. A sure chart buster.

Rating – 4.5/5


Kanavellam

The starting notes do give one a deja vu feel with Harris Jeyaraj's compositions. This number is sung by a proud father about his son which just follows the usual path with nothing new to offer but rich lyrics do make the song a good one to hear. The sounds used in between lighten up the track. Jeyachandran and Karthik do their job; overall an average track.

Rating – 3/5



Vilayaadu Vilayaadu

This is the opening song of Ajith. It does have a peppy feel but still the sound is a little on a higher note and the rhythm is very much similar to some of the kuthu songs of the past. In the middle the sounds used though innovative is very harsh on ears. Shankar Mahadevan sings the song with his usual charm. A track that will satisfy Ajith's fans.

Rating – 2.5/5


Akkam Pakkam

Sadhana Sargam is back with this slow number which is about the fantasies of a lover. Even though the rhythm and feel do remind us about her super hit 'Snegidane', the music director uses the sounds to good use. The lyrics too have a major hang over of Snegidane. Yet the final outcome is satisfactory.

Rating – 4/5


Kaneer Thuliyae

A R Rahman looms over this number of G.V.Prakash which sounds a lot like Kanathil Muthamittal and Uyirae put together. Vijay Yesudas does justice to this track. Getting inspired by the legend of Indian film music is natural for any upcoming music director and it is more justified in G V Prakash's case as he shares the family genes with Rahman. However when one finds his own touch it aids the song to stand out. And G.V.P does find some success in that.

Rating – 2.5/5


Kreedom Theme music

The start impresses the listeners but the flow is lost soon and when it is regained, it is a bit too late. It is a valiant attempt by the music director to add a theme song which has a running time of four minutes as it is quite rare in Kollywood. The final outcome is satisfactory, but Hindi music lovers can easily recognize the source of inspiration of G.V.Prakash.

Rating – 3/5

On the whole G.V.Prakash does a neat job but shows his uncle's effect on his music more than once. But as he is in his start up phase of his career, great things are expected from this young music director very soon. A decent buy.

Overall rating – 3/5

Mohanlal as Casanova

The long awaiting of Roshan Andrus is finally over. The director, who is known for his very bold films like Note book and Udhayanaanu Thaaram, has been awaiting for dates from the superstar Mohanlal for one of the best scripts among his next projects.

The new venture which is titled as Casanova will bring out some of the unseen performances and acts from the star through a very different character, the film which is to be scripted by Bobby Sanjay, will be produced by Impressario motion Pictures limited.

Undoubtingly the movie will be one of the prestigious projects of the star, next year.

Sharukh as Robo

While Sivaji: the Boss is still making waves across the globe, director Shankar is all set to commence his dream venture, supposedly his magnum opus titled Robo, a gripping science fiction film with Sharukh Khan playing the lead role.

Director Shankar has expressed his delight at going to Bollywood again. After the legendary runaway hits of Humsay Hai Muqabla and Hindustani that had drawn a plethora of National Awards including the Best Actor Award for Kamal Haasan, Robo will be his second straight Hindi film, following Nayak.

Robo will be produced by Red Chilies Entertainment, a production house of the King Khan himself. The movie with all its techno jazz will be released in Tamil, Telugu and other languages. With Speculations doing their rounds, the crew details are yet to be finalized.

Khan In Dutt Out!

Rajkumar Hirani goes for a change from Sanjay Dutt to Shahrukh Khan. Who can forget the rediscovery of Gandhian views in Lage Raho Munna Bhai, it was one of the finest movies of Sunjay Dutt and now it will be Shahrukh Khan creating the same magic for us. Hirani has decided to take Shahrukh Khan for his next project. Hirani was always interested to work with SRK and Sharukh khan was his first choice for Munnabhai MBBS but things didn’t work out with him so Sanjay Dutt got the role.

                          The SRK-Hirani project is based on Chetan Bhagat’s book on the IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) culture, ‘Five Point Someone’. The story revolves around three friends, who are unable to cope with the pressures of being in the premier institution. it is said that the script is being reworked and some changes have been made. lets see if the magic of Munna Bhai and Lage Raho is seen in Hirani’s next project and how well does Shahrukh Khan deal with it. Another point to think about is that if there are three people in the lead wonder who the other two can be apart from SRK? Any Guesses who it might be?

S a a w a r i y a ...soon

Music connects the hearts and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali much awaited and highly anticipated ‘Saawariya’ intends to connect our soul to the endearing and breathless romance evolving into a saga. Essaying the lead role in the film are debutantes Ranbir Kapoor from the lineage of Raj Kapoor and the pretty demure Sonam Kapoor, daughter of ace actor Anil Kapoor. The young, attractive and striking pair are all geared to hit the screens in the month of November.

Monty Sharma provides the music of the film with the soundtrack comprising eleven beautiful scores with lyrics by Sameer. The soundtrack is such that it is sure to stay with you for months. All the songs have their moments and are a treat in themselves. Entertain yourself with the music of this film as you look forward to watch this great entertainer.

Superb Triler:--

Aamir as Director

Everyone talks about Aamir Khan. They tell you he is a control freak. They tell you he has shelved the much-awaited Mani Ratnam film Lajjo. They tell you he fired debutant director Amol Gupte from his home production. They announce his marriage with Kiran Rao is over. Sometimes, once every couple of years, he chooses to do the talking. And then, everyone listens. In an exclusive interview to eye on the sets of his forthcoming film Ghajini, Aamir broke his silence and made a big announcement: yes, he has turned director with Taare Zameen Par

You have been quiet for a long time now.
When I'm doing a film, I find myself too absorbed in it; so I'm unable to spare time for interviews. I'm not good at multitasking. Creating time for the interview is not an issue, but creating mindspace for it is. Also, I don't see the point in saying the same stuff every three weeks to different people. I'd rather be working and talk when I feel I need to.

But how do you explain the fact that people remember the one exclusive interview you decide to give?
I don't know. I'm not making an attempt to make statements that people remember. I try and give honest answers. So maybe that's why.

Last year, you gave us a double whammy with Rang De Basanti and Fanaa. One would have expected grand things of you but you turn around and sign a very small and personal film like Taare Zameen Par.
My choice of films is governed by my heart and instinct. I'm not governed by what the market demands. I loved the script of Taare Zameen Par and that's why I agreed to be a part of it. It's very simple. When I'm reading a script, I react to it as a member of the audience. If it excites me, I want to do it, irrespective of the budget.

Could it also be that since you have acquired the reputation of being different, you have to do something different each time?
I'm not trying to be different. There is no such pressure on me. I pick scripts based on what I like and the ones that I pick will be different because I follow my taste. Rang De Basanti and Lagaan were rejected by everyone, but I did them because I liked them.
                                                                                                              

So you think it's the industry's misconception to suggest you're different?
I don't know about that. All I know is that in the last six years, all my films have been diametrically different from what other people are making. Perhaps my choice is different. I do think that what you choose reflects on the kind of person you are.

In that case, you must be quite a secure actor. Rang De Basanti had six other equally important characters. Almost all other big stars had turned it down.
I don't think I'm an insecure actor. To me, filmmaking is about the film, not the individual. If I like a film, I like it because it has all the elements. If it is tampered with, its beauty will be destroyed. As an actor, I believe my job is to get the script right.

How do you explain the tags of �control freak� and �interfering actor�?
The fact is that I haven't spoken to the film media for the last 15 years. The result is that they hit out at me whenever they get a chance. Today, any and every untrue story is being reported. What's more disturbing is that even the national media has become like the film media. You must have seen that recently a film magazine carried a story on my marriage being on the rocks. Soon, the national channels also picked it up. I call that yellow journalism.

You are referring to the Stardust story. Let me first ask: is the story true? Is there trouble between your wife Kiran and you?
Not at all. That news is all wrong. It's utter crap. I don't usually comment on my personal life, but unfortunately these meaningless rumours are forcing me to comment. All this talk about my marriage being over is a figment of someone's imagination.

Why don't you sue the magazine?
If the legal system in our country were strong enough, I would have filed a case. I checked with my lawyers and they tell me that I should take it up if I want to spend the next 20 years of my life fighting a case. All this distracts me from my work, which I love doing.

What is your reaction to these stories?
Sometimes I laugh and sometimes I get irritated. There are moments when I also feel sad, especially when I think that some people have to earn money by lying about others. The only thing that keeps me going is that I know in my heart that my audience knows me. I know that they won't believe the crap that is written about me.

How do your family and kids react?
My family is used to it. So they don't believe it. As for my kids, if anything has to be told to them, I'll tell them. They will never find out what's happening in their father's life from the media.

It's almost as if you operate in an alternative industry: you work with your own group of people, you don't attend award functions, don't sip coffee on talk shows and hardly give interviews. Is it by design?
(Laughs) I think that's a wrong way of putting it. I'm very much a part and product of this industry. It's just that whatever I do in my life, small or big, I like to do it on my terms. I like doing things that I believe in. I can see that I'm an oddball and I don't fit the requirements of what is recognised as a star today.

What is your definition of being a star?
In my opinion, a star is defined by the number of seats he can fill in the theatres in the first week on his own merit, irrespective of the director and co-stars. I've been fulfilling that requirement so far.

Will we ever see you acting in a mindless comedy and a mushy romance?
I don't want to use the words 'mindless' and 'mushy' loosely. I would like to do a purely romantic film, which may not be in the realm of logic, which is what Fanaa was. It was not a logical film but it was from the heart. But I have to confess that I'm comfortable doing different kinds of cinema. I want people to be entertained in different ways and I want to be able to entertain them in different ways.

Of late, you've worked with a lot of new or less successful directors. Do you want to give new people a break?
My purpose is not to give other people an opportunity. My purpose is to do films I like so that I can entertain people. I do films with directors in whom I have faith. It doesn't matter how their last film fared, as in the case of Rakeysh Mehra and Ashutosh Gowariker. My choice of what film I'm doing depends on three factors: trust and faith in the director, the script he wants to make and the producer. I don't compromise on any of these.

There are rumours that you (and not Amol Gupte) have directed Taare Zameen Par.
Yes, that's true. But that's not how it started out. A couple of years ago, Amol came to me with a script that I fell in love with. He wanted me to act in it and produce it. I was happy to do both. Amol wanted to direct the film and I agreed since I felt he was capable. But one week into the shooting of Taare Zameen Par, I wasn't happy with what I saw of the rushes. I lost faith in Amol and his capability of translating on screen what he had so beautifully written on paper. At which point, I expressed my feelings to him and did what was fair and returned the script back to him so that he could direct it for another producer, with another actor. But Amol came back to me and said he wants me to continue as the producer and he decided to step back as the director. After going through various names and options, Amol suggested that I take over as director. Our main concern was the child who has a pivotal role in the film. Both of us felt that we had found a magical child in Darsheel Safary. Any new director coming in would mean a delay of six to eight months and we were afraid Darsheel might grow up. It was Amol's suggestion that I take over as director. So I took on the responsibility and did the best I could.

How was the experience?
Emotionally, it was very difficult for me as I'm sure it was for Amol because we have been friends for more than 25 years. Amol is an extremely talented person and I'm certain that he will direct a film soon and direct it well. Amol's contribution to the film is immense. He was with me every day on the shoot, guiding me and, at times, even correcting me. I'm grateful that he stayed on and helped me make the film.

But did you enjoy direction?
I must confess that it was one rough journey because I had to jump in without any preparation. I'd always wanted to direct a film but this was not an ideal situation. I'd have liked to spend time on the script and visualise it. Working with kids can be tough but we had a great bunch of kids, especially Darsheel, Sachet and Tanay Chheda. It was extremely challenging and a great learning experience. Despite all that, it was fun. (Taare Zameen Par will release on December 21.)

Is it true that you've rejected your wife Kiran's script thrice?
Not true. Kiran will direct soon. I must confess that I was bowled over by the script she has written. I'm definitely going to produce it. Unfortunately, there is no role for me in it and I'm extremely sad about that. But I've requested her to tweak one of the characters to fit me in. I hope she does.

What is the philosophy of Aamir Khan Productions?
To do films we believe in and enjoy making them.

What will it take for an Indian film to win an Oscar?
The film just needs to be able to impress the committee that is judging the foreign language films. When people ask me what made Lagaan reach the top five, I say it was because the people who saw Lagaan loved it. And when I'm asked if I was disappointed that Lagaan didn't win the Oscar, I say reaching the top five is an achievement itself.

Is winning an Oscar important?
It's of minor importance. I'd be happy to win one. But I give more importance to the audience's reaction to my work and what I feel about it.

What is the status of Lajjo?
Trade reports suggest that the film has been shelved. The last that I know of it is that Mani (Ratnam) is working on the songs and the script. If there is any change, I'll check and get back to you.

This one is a personal request. Can't you drag Mansoor Khan (Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar) back to direction?
(Laughs) I've tried my level best. In fact, I requested him to be the creative producer of a film I'm producing, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, wherein I'm launching my nephew Imraan. He was kind enough to agree. That was my way of getting him back ki thoda sa chaska lagega. Mansoor tells me that he's working on something; so let's wait and watch.

Shah Rukh, Salman and you have dominated films for over 17 years now. What makes The Khans so special?
I've no idea. You need to check with the audience.

Who, in your opinion, can take over after The Khans?
I don't think we're planning to move out soon. But Hrithik (Roshan) is a good actor and a popular star. Even Abhishek (Bachchan) is doing well.

What was the last film you saw that you wished you had acted in?
(Thinks hard) I can't think of any.

Karan Johar has said you don't respect him as a filmmaker.
I've seen all three films by Karan. I loved Kuch Kuch Hota Hai but I was extremely disappointed with Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. I think Karan is capable but his last two films have disappointed me as an audience.

What has been your most satisfying performance as an actor?
(Thinks hard) It's a very tough question. It's very difficult to be objective. I'm happier with my last four-five films like Rang De Basanti, Fanaa, Mangal Pandey, Dil Chahta Hai, Lagaan and Sarfarosh. As I grow as an actor, I find I don't like my previous work. I feel there were too many mistakes. It's a process, I guess.

Has there been a performance that makes you cringe?
Oh, there have been quite a few. I'd rather not name the films.

Bheema coming!!

Story
‘Bheema’ is the movie that Vikram had signed after ‘Maaja'. The shooting of the movie started in April 2006. Vikram and Trisha are the lead pair with Prakash Raj in an important role. ‘Bheema’ is being directed by Lingusamy. He is enthusiastic after the success of his movie ‘Deepavali’. Two songs for the movie have been screened in New Zealand. Vikram has gained weight to look different in this movie. It seems that he exercises even during the breaks in the shooting spots. Sherin, the heroine of the movie ‘Whistle’ will appear in an item number with Vikram. ‘Bheema’ was stopped mid way due to problems in the production. Then it was restarted in the later part of the year 2006. Now the shooting of the movie is going on. It is planned for release in May or June.

INTERVIEW

OM SHANTI OM

The star cast of OM SHANTI OM continues to swell. We're well aware of topnotch stars like Sanjay Dutt, Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan and many others featuring in a pivotal song in this keenly anticipated film, but there's more to look forward to. SRK and director Farah Khan have roped in Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan as well, not for the song in question, but a scene preceding the talked-about star-studded song.

However, the three actors have yet to shoot for the film. “That's true,” Farah confirms the development. Why aren't the three part of the famed song? “In the film, the three are the final contenders for the Filmfare Best Actor Award and since they lose the award to SRK, it would look odd if we showed them sing and dance in the post-awards celebration party- song,” she clarifies.

Meanwhile, SRK and Farah have decided to launch the music of the film with pomp and gaiety on 18th September at a suburban hotel.

On the personal front, Farah has started supervising the post- production work from the cool comforts of her home and there's a valid reason for it. Farah and husband Shirish Kunder are going to become parents soon -- Farah is expecting triplets.

 Expectations. Expectations. And some more expectations. This is how one looks forward to the music of Om Shanti Om from which one expects nothing but the best. And why not? After all:

a) This is the biggest ever film starring Shahrukh Khan
b) This is the second directorial venture for Farah Khan who made a smashing debut with Main Hoon Naa
c) The film has created huge buzz accompanied by immense hype ever since it was launched
d) Vishal-Shekhar and Javed Akhtar saab are expected to bring on table a massy popular score
e) Last but not the least, the film travels decades which makes one look forward to variety in the soundtrack.

Are these expectations met? Well, very much as each of the seven unique tracks bring on a variety that makes Om Shanti Om a winner all the way.

It is a truly unconventional beginning to Om Shanti Om as instead of an expected 'Beat-one-Beat-two' beginning from Vishal-Shekhar, one gets to hear a rather serene 'Aankhon Mein Teri' which turns out to be an extremely soulful hear. On hearing it initially, it is the sheer 'different' factor due to which it takes some time to follow the composition. But once you have heard it closely with lights switched off and no interference around you, 'Aankhon Mein Teri' turns out to be an irresistible piece of melody that lingers on for hours.

There are number of factors which go in making 'Aankhon Mein' a song that would be remembered for time to come. First and foremost it is the re-discovery of Vishal-Shekhar who create an unconventional tune that breaks the norms which they had themselves set for them. Furthermore, Vishal himself writes lyrics for this track which turns out to be a unique experience since it shows the sensitive romantic side of him. But the biggest of all is K.K. who showcases once again that he is THE most versatile singer who we have in the Bollywood musical scene today!


Well, those who love the dance numbers coming from Vishal-Shekhar don't have to wait for long with the arrival of 'Dard-E-Disco'. This is the very track which is much talked about for Shahrukh Khan's 'perfect-six-abs' and unlike 'Aankhon Mein' which grows immensely only after a few hearings, it is an instant hit from the GO. Reminding of the style, rhythm and the funk of 'Kaal Dhamaal' [Kaal], 'Dard E Disco' is a 'jump-on-the-dance-floor' number which has a Persian touch to it even as overall feel of the song stays on to be Western.

From the title of the song, one would have expected 'Dard-E-Disco' to belong to the 80s era with a Mithun hangover it but that's not the case as the song turns out to be pretty contemporary. Sukhwinder Singh is in his full elements for this track that has some spicy writing by Javed Akhtar saab. Marianne, Nisha and Caralisa come together for backup vocals who give the song a perfect disco feel. Later in the album arrives the 'remix version' which makes for a justified presence due to the song's theme and keeps the entertainment alive.

One would have expected the graph of the album to at maximum stay steady after 'Aankhon Mine' and 'Dard-E-Disco' but to one's pleasant surprise, it shoots up amazingly with 'Deewangi Deewangi' which hooks you on within first one minute itself. A sure shot chartbuster which could well have been the opening number for the film's promotion, 'Deewangi Deewangi' is what qualifies as a trademark number which could have been lapped up by Yash Raj Films or Dharma Productions.

Coming together of Shaan, Udit Narayan, Shreya Ghoshal, Sunidhi Chauhan and Rahul Saxena (heard in Indian Idol) ensures that there is not a single dull moment in this instant-attention-grabbing track. Boasting of the innocence in melody that was witnessed in the 70s and now presented in the 21st century 'avtar' with a fusion of 'qawalli', 'bhangra' and western arrangements, 'Deewangi Deewangi' that also incorporates the sound of Om Shanti Om would definitely lit up the screen when it is played. It's 'Rainbow Mix' only confirms the thought as it helps in consolidating the sound of the song.

If you have ever been in love, you wouldn't have missed out the dancing-couple-on-a-glass-floor gift item that has a sweet sounding tinkling sound which compliments their moves! This is the sound that marks the beginning of 'Main Agar Kahoon' which reminds one of the 60s era when songs like these were in vogue. Picturised on the likes of Rajendra Kumar and Shammi Kapoor, they were mostly sung by Late Mohd. Rafi.

This is the very reason why Sonu Nigam has been roped in to croon 'Main Agar Kahoon' which required the kind of rendition which would succeed in getting you nostalgic about the music of the era gone by. With Shreya Ghoshal in tow who is just the right fit for a song belonging to this genre, 'Main Agar Kahoon' gives a completely different flavor to the album by bringing some 'thehrav' to it after a rocking outing experienced in last few songs.

Names like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Richa Sharma are good enough reasons to expect a quality offering from Vishal-Shekhar in the song 'Jag Soona Soona Lage'. Written by guest lyricist Kumaar, this painful yet mellow track about separation has it's beginning borrowed from the opening sound of 'Main Agar Kahoon'. Both the singers are highly competent in this beautifully written number that shows an altogether different facet of the composer-duo. A track which has a thorough Indian base to it and makes for a passionate outing, expect it to make multiple appearance during the film's narrative.

It's time for the world of 'Tohfa Tohfa Tohfa' [Tohfa] as 'dhols' and 'ghunghroos' come together in unison to create the sound of late 70s and early 80s. With a Lakshmikant-Pyayelal patent all over 'Dhoom Taana', it is only consolidated further as Shreya Ghoshal sings the song in a style that was made famous by yesteryear singer S. Janaki in Jeetendra-Sridevi-Jaya Pradha films. Roping in of Abhijeet too seems to be done with a purpose since it only brings the nostalgia of Kishore Kumar in spite of no conscious effort by the singer to do so.

All through this vintage song, the 'dhol' beats accompanied by the chorus of 'Dhoom Taana' is hard to be missed though there is a shift in mood mid-way with rock-n-roll. Just recently there was news around Deepika Padukone shaking a leg with Sunil Dutt, Jeetendra and Rajesh Khanna, courtesy SFX. Well, 'Dhoom Taana' seems to be just the candidate for that setting! A winner which should definitely have the house on fire as it unfolds on the big screen. Especially watch out for the crescendo towards the song's end.

Finally comes a track which seems to be set in accordance to the reincarnation theme of the film. Set as a tribute to 'Ek Haseena Thi Ek Deewana Tha' [Karz] with even the lyrics taking a cue from the classic track by Lakshmikant-Pyarelal, 'Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om' is set in exactly the same story telling mode. The styling of this Shaan rendered track follows the same mode as one expects a high voltage dramatic narration when the song is on.

High on orchestra, 'Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om' is an elaborate number which has a lot to convey through it's lyrics by Javed Akhtar saab. With its 'mukhda' based on the film's theme music, the song makes an appearance again towards the end of the album. In it's 'remix version' as 'Dastaan - The Dark Side Mix', it is pepped up further with additional arrangements.

Another remix track which takes the album towards its completion is 'Om Shanti Om - Medley Mix' which basically is an amalgamation of all the tracks from the film presented in a 'club-mix' avtar. A good way to wind up the album. Finally comes a minute long theme piece which is titled 'Om Shanti Om - Themes'. Played on a piano, it leaves a lasting impact even as one can revisit the sound in at least half the tracks in the album.

Credit must go to Farah Khan who mixes the commercial elements of the movie with an inherent class which she wanted to lay out in the soundtrack for Om Shanti Om. This is why a fine balancing act is done in the album with hardcore massy tracks like 'Deewangi Deewangi' [best of the lot], 'Dhoom Taana' and 'Dard-E-Disco' presented along with touching tracks like 'Aankhon Mein Teri', 'Main Agar Kahoon' and 'Jag Soona Soona Lage'. And then there is always a 'Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om' to bring the nostalgia of 'Ek Haseena Thi' [Karz'].

Om Shanti Om is easily one of the most complete scores by Vishal-Shekhar and Javed Akhtar.

Trailer:-

Be Devotional

With Ganesha Festival arriving one can look upto a new album or a song or two arriving. Every year the ever-devotional Shankar Mahadevan has made it a point to come out with something devotional for his fans and devotees. And this year is no different! He is presenting an album 'Ganesha – India Celebrates' which has already hit the stands. This is the first music album dedicated to Lord Ganesh. However it stands out owing to its music influences from every corner of the country like Punjab, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. With Indian musical notes filled with devotion in the hymns of Ganesha, its time to cheer with this great album!

Still Young

From 'Piya tu ab to aaja' to 'Dum maro dum' and 'Kambakht ishq', singing diva Asha Bhosle has been enthralling listeners with her vivacious and versatile numbers for more than six decades. And the singing legend, who turned 74 Saturday, is still going strong.

From Madhubala to Helen in the older films to newer actresses Urmila Matondkar and Kareena Kapoor, these screen scorchers are all bound by a common thread - the evergreen voice of Asha.

Says Gulzar: 'If Lata-ji has sung all the songs in my 'Aandhi', 'Mausam' and 'Libaas', Asha did the entire score in 'Namkeen' and 'Ijaazat' and of course our collaborative effort 'Dil Padosi Hai' with Pancham, which is a personal favourite.'

Gifted with one of the most versatile voices in the industry, Asha has sung every genre of song, be it pop, club mixes, romantic numbers, bhajans and ghazals. Asha's zingy singing has made memorable many of the cabaret numbers by yesteryears' diva Helen.

Urmila, for whom Asha has sung many hit numbers, including in 'Rangeela', says: 'I've always been one of Asha-ji's biggest fans. We go back a long way. She has known me from when I was a child. She had sung in one of my Marathi films as a child actor called 'Sansar'. Then, of course, her husband R.D. Burman composed music for my 'Masoom'. The couple has seen me grow up.'

'The biggest compliment to me was when people thought songs like 'Khallas' in Ram Gopal Varma's 'Company' were mine only because Asha-ji sang them,' added Urmila, who lent her voice for Asha's album 'Asha & Friends'.

Born into the musical family of Pandit Dinanath Mangeshkar, Asha took her initial training in music from her father. But it came to an abrupt end when he died. She was just nine years old then.

After his death the family moved from Pune to Kolhapur and then to Mumbai. Asha and her elder sister, Lata Mangeshkar, started singing in films to support their family.

She sang her first film song 'Chala chala nav bala' for the Marathi movie 'Majha Bal' in 1943. Her first Hindi song was 'Saawan aaya' for Hansraj Bahl's 'Chunariya' in 1948.

The year 1957 was the breakthrough year for Asha when O.P. Nayyar used her to sing the heroine's songs in 'Tumsa Nahin Dekha' and 'Naya Daur'. The same year the legendary S.D. Burman had a rift with Lata Mangeshkar. This came as a blessing in disguise for Asha, who soon became his favourite female singer.

In the 1970s Asha came closer to another legend of Indian music, R.D. Burman, who gave a new hip and happening sound to her singing. The songs 'Piya tu ab to aajaa', 'Dum maro dum' and 'Chura liya hai tumne' were a result of this combination.

But it was her immortal ghazals for Muzaffar Ali's 'Umrao Jaan' that fetched her huge accolades. The songs 'Dil cheez kya hai', 'In aankhon ki masti', 'Yeh kaisi jagah hai doston' not only proved her versatility but are still all-time favourites.

For her contribution to music in Indian cinema, Asha was conferred the Dada Saheb Phalke Award, the highest title in Indian cinema in 2000.

She is a source of inspiration for wannabe singers.

'Asha-ji has always been a great source of inspiration for me. In fact, she inspires all budding singers. She is so versatile and her voice is so young that even today if she lends her voice to any actress, the song becomes a chartbuster,' Abhijeet Sawant, the winner of 'Indian Idol 1', told us.

'Nowadays when established singers don't want to take a chance with pop albums she comes up with an album every year. She is so enthusiastic and always open to work with youngsters. I wish her many, many happy returns of the day and also that her blessings should always remain with us,' added Sawant.

Her popularity is not confined to Indian shores! She has collaborated with artistes like Boy George and Stephen Lauscombe. In 2002, she teamed with Michael Stipe on the track 'The Way You Dream' on the self-titled album by 1 Giant Leap.

In 1997, the British band Cornershop paid tribute to Asha with their song 'Brimful of Asha', an international hit which was later remixed by Fatboy Slim.

In 2001, the CD single of Nelly Furtado's 'I'm Like A Bird' included a 'Nellie vs. Asha Remix' created by Digital Cutup Lounge.

In 2005, American string quartet Kronos Quartet re-recorded R.D. Burman compositions like 'Chura liya', 'Piya tu', 'Mera kuchh saaman' among others and got Asha to sing them.

In 2003, British opera pop singer Sarah Brightman sampled her song 'Dil cheez kya hai' on her album 'Harem'. It was used as the intro for her song 'You Take My Breath Away'.

It makes different Rahman says it is an honour!!

Renowned film music composer A.R. Rahman will present the national anthem of India Thursday at the inaugural CineMaya Media Group Indian & American Achiever Awards at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington D.C.

"It is my great honour to be able to sing 'Jana Gana Mana', during the 60th Year of independence celebrations in the heart of the US Capital," Rahman said in a press statement.

"CineMaya Media is doing a great job by celebrating the 60th anniversary of India's independence and recognizing individuals and multinational corporations (MNCs) who have contributed towards the collective advancement and growth of the two largest democracies in the world," he added.

Supported by US-India Business Council, the inaugural event is hosted by CineMaya Media Group. The gala event will feature performances by internationally acclaimed maestros of Indian music like Dr. Balamurali Krishna and Pandit Ajoy Chakraborty, Pandit Birju Maharaj and Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma.

Indian actor Kunal Khemu, of "Kalyug" fame, will host the function.

The prestigious awards are instituted to recognise individuals and companies who have excelled in various fields. There will be two honourees in each category, one an Indian and the other an American. The categories are innovation, science & technology, arts, entertainment and media, besides Gandhi lifetime achievement awards.

The list of nominees includes former US President Bill Clinton, media mogul Rupert Murdoch, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates, A.R. Rahman, Infosys chairman N.R. Narayana Murthy, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and author Deepak Chopra, among others.

Daler-Mika singing together!

When Bhangra ace Daler Mehndi and pop sensation Mika comes together, you can expect something drenched in Punjabi flavour but enough upbeat to hold your attention. For the first time both real-life brothers are coming behind the mike. This is an unusual combination indeed as they’re coming together for the first time! Music maker Shameer Tandon who stages coups repeatedly has done it again. He has the penchant of recording with singers who have not recorded for years like Manna Dey and Usha Mangeshkar. This time he brings together two brothers who have not been on talking terms for years to record a song. Both the brothers are coming together for the first time in 10 years. The song will be used for the soundtrack of the film ‘Mr. White Mr. Black’. Directed by Bipin Shah the film has Suniel Shetty and Arshad Warsi in lead.

Coming back to the song, it is written by Shabbir Ahmed. The Punjabi singers will be assisted by Asha Bhosle and the track will be used as the promotional song of the film. The song is ‘Tu makke di roti meri, main sarson da saag tera’. Says Shameer, “Neither could resist the temptation to record ‘live’ with Ashaji.” Mika recently wrote, composed and sang 'E Ganpat chal daru laa' in Shootout At Lokhandwala’ which turned to be a hit.