IBLOG SPACE

A sudden change in work schedule made Shahid Kapoor a nervous wreck last month. A timely visit to his father Pankaj Kapoor's spiritual guru in the hills however revealed to him the virtues of stillness in an overactive lifestyle. Having finished all his assignments, the actor has no projects on hand at the moment apart from his dad's film 'Mausam'. Shahid told IANS, 'All I can say is faith makes all things possible. That's why it's called a leap of faith. I was working 20 hours a day till Jan 20. I was working insanely. When I woke up on Jan 21, I had no work to go to. 'Initially I felt a sense of freedom. Then immediately it was followed by panic...what do I do with myself? I've become an insomniac and started tweeting at 4 a.m. I don't feel tired. I feel I haven't earned the right to rest. And I don't know what to do with myself!' However, here is the upside. 'Every time I've sat at home without

Missing U.S. actor Andrew Koenig, who starred in the 198Os television comedy "Growing Pains," killed himself, his distraught father said Thursday after police located his body in an isolated area of a park. "Our son took his own life," Walter Koenig, who portrayed Lieutenant Pavel Chekov in the original "Star Trek" TV series, told reporters at a late afternoon news conference. Andrew Koenig, 41, was last seen on Feb. 14 when he left the Vancouver apartment of a friend he had been visiting, and he was reported missing four days later after his father, in Los Angeles, received a despondent letter from his son. Koenig's disappearance caused friends including actress Alyssa Milano, actor Kirk Cameron and comedian Sarah Silverman to post comments online or put out statements seeking information on his whereabouts. On his father's website, Koenig's parents posted a long description of their son, including the fact that he

The Rolling Stones, who have long resisted releasing archival material, will include 10 previously unheard songs in an upcoming reissue of "Exile on Main Street," the group's representatives said on Thursday. The original 1972 release, a sprawling two-disc set regarded by many observers as one of their greatest works, features such notable tracks as "Tumbling Dice" and "Happy." It was recorded in the grim basement of a French villa once used by the Gestapo. Guitarist Keith Richards was consumed at the time by a heroin addiction and singer Mick Jagger was distracted by his new wife, Bianca. The reissue, due out in the United States on May 18 and a day earlier internationally through Vivendi's Universal Music Group, will be supplemented by new tracks with such titles as "Plundered My Soul," "Dancing in the Light," "Following the River" and "Pass The Wine." While the Stones have bee

The members of Aerosmith, evidently reconciled after a public feud crippled the veteran rock band, said on Thursday they would tour Europe for the first time in three years during the summer. The surprise announcement, accompanied by a light-hearted video, came three months after singer Steven Tyler's sober bandmates threatened to audition replacements because they claimed he was back on drugs. Tyler, 61, returned to rehab for the second time in as many years last December to battle an addiction to prescription painkillers. Several weeks ago, his lawyer threatened legal action if the band toured without him. The ill will now seems to have subsided, and Aerosmith's 11-date "Cocked, Locked, Ready to Rock Tour" will kick off in Sweden on June 10. Dates are also set for Britain, Romania, Greece, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, France, the Czech Republic and a final stop in Venice on July 3. "The rumors are true," guitarist Joe Perr

Nine banquet waiters at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel on Park Avenue in Manhattan have sued the famous property and its owner Hilton Worldwide Inc, alleging that they were stiffed on tips. According to a lawsuit filed Thursday in Manhattan federal court, customers were led to believe that a 21.5 percent gratuity added to their food and drink bills would go entirely to service staff. In fact, the lawsuit said only 15 percent went to the staff while the other 6.5 percent went to the hotel. The complaint said this violated New York state labour law. Hilton did not immediately return a call seeking comment. The company is owned by private equity firm Blackstone Group LP. It is unclear how much in damages is being sought, but the lawsuit said the amount at issue "exceeds the sum or value of $5 million." The lawsuit seeks class-action status, payment of wages and gratuities required by law, and other remedies. The case is Colon et al. v. Hilton Worldwi

A Florida woman has sued rapper 50 Cent for posting her sex tape online without her consent, which was widely seen as part of the singer's feud with rival Rick Ross. In court papers filed in New York Supreme Court this week, Lastonia Leviston claimed she made the tape in June 2008 with a former boyfriend who sold it to 50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis James Jackson, in March 2009. Leviston said 50 Cent then taped himself dressed in a wig and robe and edited himself into the video, adding his own narration before posting it on his website. Leviston once dated Ross, a burly Miami rapper whose real name is William Leonard Roberts II. In the world of rap music where rival performers often trade insults, the video was considered as a way for 50 Cent to lash out at Ross. The video was posted on the singer's website Thisis50.com before making it onto other videosharing sites like YouTube. "The video has been viewed by millions including by per

A 19-year-old in Wisconsin was sentenced to 15 years behind bars after police say he used Facebook to con male classmates into sending him naked pictures and then blackmailing them for sex. Anthony Stancl posed as a female on the popular social site and convinced 31 of his male counterparts to send him naked photos. When he eventually revealed himself as a man he then threatened to show the pictures to other classmates if the boys refused to perform sex acts on him. At least seven of the boys age 15 to 17 felt forced to perform the lewd acts on Stancl which he sometimes recorded. When he was arrested police found 300 photos and movie clips of the boys on his computer.

Radiohead front man Thom Yorke on Thursday revealed the name of his new band -- Atoms for Peace -- and announced a series of U.S. tour dates. The British alternative rock singer first introduced the band late last year. It features Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, drummer Joey Waronker of R.E.M. Mauro Refosco of Forro in the Dark, and Radiohead producer Nigel Godrich. But it had no name, and when the band officially debuted in Los Angeles last October, it was billed with question marks. In a note on Radiohead's web site, Yorke wrote; "It has been decided that we call ourselves Atoms For Peace. hope you like the name. it seemed bleedin' obvious." Atoms for Peace is a track on Yorke's 2006 solo album, The Eraser. The musician and political activist said the band would play eight dates starting in New York on April 5th before hitting the three-day Coachella music festival in Indio, California on April 18. Radiohead recently

Ranbir Kapoor , reportedly called off their blossoming relationship, and a hurt Deepika Padukone took it squarely on her chin and moved on… Rumours of Shahid Kapoor and DP readying to becoming a cozy twosome set the grapevine abuzz… and Ranbir Kapoor did a swift rethink. Reportedly, Ranbir has been desperately SMSing Deepika from the US, asserting that he wants her to sashay right back into his starry life! Last X'mas, his relationship with Priyanka Chopra ended on a choppy note, but Shahid Kapoor too decided that it was time to reconnect with the lissome Chopra. Long distance chats, frequent phone calls and innumerable text messages are the order of the day for Chopra and Kapoor. A close source reveals, "They are very fond of each other and Priyanka's parents too are quite fond of Shahid. Besides, when Shahid texted her on winning the national award for 'Fashion', Priyanka responded warmly, though it was a while later." Tattletale mags are

British singer Leona Lewis has admitted it's a 'challenge' to find ethical clothing and is looking forward to creating her own fashion line to make it easier. The 'Happy' singer, who is a strict vegetarian, refuses to wear any animal products and as a result, struggles to find suitable outfits so is looking forward to launching her fashion line to make it easier, reports femalefirst.co.uk. 'I'm trying to make that happen as soon as I can. It's a challenge mostly with shoes as I don't wear any leather and am very ethical about what I wear. I love wearing Stella McCartney, but one day I hope to have my own line of ethical clothes and accessories,' she said. Despite her difficulties, Leona is a huge fashion fan and loves getting 'creative' with her look. 'I really enjoy fashion and I love being creative. I work with a couple of stylists but I love fashion so am always looking online and in magazines for inspira

Hollywood actor Jeff Bridges says he wants to take on a final great role before he dies. The 60-year-old who is best known for playing The Dude in the 1998 movie 'The Big Lebowski' said he knows he's getting older everyday but struggles with two opposing forces, one telling him to take time out to relax and the other which is reaching for something even bigger and better, reports imdb.com. 'I feel two impulses. One is to just relax. I don't feel I have to prove anything. I can just enjoy my life. The other side is saying, 'if you want to do anything, you better do it now. You're going to die in a second, man. Come on',' he said. 'It's just about finding the balance. Keep it in perspective, don't push yourself too hard, have fun - you're not setting up a giant homework assignment,' he added. The veteran who recently picked up the Best Actor Golden Globe for his role in 'Crazy Heart' has had very l

Om Shanti Om, Bachna Ae Haseeno, Love Aaj Kal - Pick up any of the successful films that Deepika Padukone has been a part of and it is quite obvious that she has always had an important role to play in the film's narrative. In fact even in a box office disappointment like Chandni Chowk To Chowk , she did have ample screen time with a double role to her credit. This is why when one sees her in a couple of song sequences and a light hearted scene or two in Karthik Calling Karthik , one wonders if this is all that she has to offer in the film? One wonders if there is space for any quintessential romance in Karthik Calling Karthik . Beyond a couple of love songs and a night club number, Deepika and Farhan can't really be expected to romance around the trees in the film. So how does the entire romantic angle merge with the narrative? "Well, at the end of the day this film is a thriller", agrees Deepika who is stepping into this genre for the first time, "

Karan Johar's former assistant and associate Nikhil Advani is caught in a huge dilemma. Seeing the trouble that has been created by Shah Rukh Khan's innocuous patently apolitical statement that Pakistan players should not be precluded from the IPL package, Nikhil Advani whose underproduction film Patiala House has cricket at its backdrop, wonders if the inclusion of Pakistani cricketers as planned, makes any political and business sense. Says a source close to Patiala House , "On the one hand Nikhil is being advised to drop the proposed Pakistani cricket players from his film. On the other hand Nikhil feels dropping the players from across the border from his film would be tantamount to playing into the hands that caused all these unwanted problems for Karan Johar. If Nikhil succumbs to pressures to drop the Pakistani cricketers who are to shoot with Akshay Kumar, he feels he'd be letting down his mentor Karan." The dilemma is pretty much solved

For someone who has close to 20 released films to her credit in last 5 years, Konkona Sen Sharma is doing quite good for herself. More so because ever since her debut effort way back in 2002, Mr And Mrs Iyer , she has seen more bouquets coming her way and hardly any brickbats. Ok, so an occasional Dil Kabaddi doesn't quite do much justice to her acting talent but the fact remains that when it comes to performance, Konkona is the one that many a film maker are vouching for today. While Wake Up Sid did get her the kind of critical and commercial acclaim that is always expected from her, the beginning of 2009 had a fantastic Luck By Chance as well. Both were relatively serious films though. Now with Atithi Tum Kab Jaaoge? up for release, can one comfortably believe that this is one film which would allow her to have some fun as well. "Why are you forgetting The President Is Coming ", she smiles, "I guess it has been THE most, light hearted comedy tha

Pop star Lady Gaga is teaming up with Italian designer Giorgio Armani for her 'Monster Ball' world tour. The designer has created bespoke costumes for the concerts, which will stay true to the 'Poker Face' singer's eccentric style, reports contactmusic.com. 'We hear Lady Gaga's music everywhere we go, it is like a soundtrack of our times. In addition to her formidable songwriting skills, she is a modern fashion phenomenon,' said the designer's fashion house, in a statement. One of the outfits is a hooded one-piece with a lobster-like effect on one sleeve while another is a blue body suit with pointed shoulders. Gaga recently also revealed she felt 'honoured' when Armani agreed to dress her for the Grammy Awards. They created custom pieces for her to wear on the red carpet and during her performance at last month's ceremony, including a lilac and silver space age, solar system-inspired stiff-skirted gown.

An air conditioning snag in the aircraft escalated to a heated discussion. And Ajay Devgn, who was gearing up in glee to jubilate on his 11th wedding anniversary with Kajol , Nysa and family, was maudlin at Madurai. The heated argument between passengers and the airline almost ruined it for Devgn. Post canning sequences for Priyadarshan's 'Garam Hawa' at Madurai, the actor was excited over returning to his Juhu home. A close source states, "Ajay was getting very worried at the delay and finally he got home at 8 pm. It was just a quiet dinner, but it was definitely better than being stuck alone at Chennai."

Shasha's troublesome ways are earning reams of newsprint. On his 29th b'day, though, Shahid Kapoor aims in all earnestness to revamp his personal image. Admittedly, he's been going on the sets with a know it all attitude. "This year, I plan to be a student during the making of my father's film 'Mausam'," asserts Shahid in a tabloid talk. "I'll go on to the set with an attitude of learning, and come out better on both counts: as an actor and a person." On his b'day, though, he plans to reconnect with his mommie dearest: "Earlier, mom and I lived together," says Shahid. "We have a great emotional connect and now my brother Ishaan stays with her." Delving into flashback, Shahid recalls the time when he was a four year old who would embarrass his mom by tearing open gifts and expressing his delight or displeasure right away. His pal Siddharth Malhotra's b'day bash is no longer a secret… and an a

Madhavan missed his appointment with his 3 Idiots co-star Aamir Khan at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this month. During his recent visit to Canada with his wife and son, Madhavan was invited by Aamir to the Sundance Film Festival. But then man proposes, God disposes. Aamir's father passed away. Says Madhavan, "I was supposed to join Aamir at the Sundance Film Festival and in fact all set to leave from Canada to the US when news came that Aamir had to rush back. Of course I was disappointed. I was hoping to participate in the festival with Aamir and catch his film Peepli Live which I haven't seen. But more than disappointment about missing Sundance I was concerned for Aamir's loss. We all were." With Sundance being cancelled Maddy decided to take a different route. He decided to do an American tour entitled 'Coffee With An Idiot'. Explains Maddy, "It was a very selected gathering, intellectual and fun at the same time. The whol

Have you ever received a call from yourself? Is it possible in the first place? There are several theories doing the rounds about the two Karthiks in this movie. So what is it? Is Karthik hallucinating? Does he have a double role? Or a split personality? For most parts of the film, you actually buy the explanation that Karthik does receive calls from, well, Karthik. Let's accept the fact that a concept like this instinctively generates curiosity in the film. But the real test is to make the story work in those 2 hours. Also - this is vital - the identity of the caller should come as a jolt when the film concludes. KARTHIK CALLING KARTHIK works in parts, but during the penultimate part, when the story shifts from Mumbai to Kerala, the sand castle, so beautifully built by debutante director Vijay Lalwani, gets washed away One doesn't want to challenge the behavioural patterns of a person with a certain disorder, but when it comes to the big screen, when you a

The earth provides enough to satisfy every man's need, but not every man's greed. That's so true! Let's face it, money is the root of all evil. When we have more, it is never enough. This is exactly what Leena Yadav's TEEN PATTI tells you. TEEN PATTI is not only about gambling on table, but all those gambles that we take in our life. Bearing an uncanny resemblance to the Hollywood film 21, TEEN PATTI is akin to a roller coaster ride; if there are highs, expect the lows too. Leena Yadav's take on greed and deception has some defining moments, but the fact is that the writing lacks clarity. Let me explain. Probability is a very interesting theory in mathematics. But the problem is, is it easy to comprehend for the average viewer? Frankly, despite Leena's best efforts, only a handful of viewers will be able to comprehend the goings on and the theory of probability. Besides, the narrative is such that it caters to the intelligentsia mainly. For t

R&B star Akon has quit his London radio show after just one broadcast. Contactmusic.com reports the 'Smack that' hitmaker recently signed up to host a two-hour programme every Saturday night on Capital FM radio station. His radio debut aired Feb 13 but the timeslot's previous host filled in for the star last week and now bosses at the station have confirmed Akon won't be returning. 'Due to Akon's commitments, including working on a brand new album, we won't be broadcasting a regular show on 95.8 Capital FM for the time being. Our conversations about future shows are ongoing as we explore other opportunities that may work for both of us,' said a spokesperson for Global Radio, the company that owns Capital FM.

Martial artist Bruce Lee's student Richard Bustillo is bringing the legend's art Jeet Kune Do (JKD) to India. Bustillo will discuss, demonstrate and train students in JKD in India. The event will be held in Mumbai March 13-14. Showcased for the first time in Bruce Lee's 1973 hit 'Enter The Dragon', the new age martial art is a physical and philosophical-spiritual art that includes kicking, punching, knee-elbow striking and grappling with ground fighting. Despite the colossal success of his films, Bruce Lee did not want to commercialize his art and hence it is not publicly available till date. Lee certified only five students in his lifetime - Dan Inosanto, Ted Wong, James Lee, Taky Kimura and Bustillo. At present, Bustillo and Wong are the only individuals available to teach JKD. While the former focuses on the US, the latter has a following in Europe. Bustillo, 60, is based in Los Angeles in the US.

The scandal behind ace golfer Tiger Woods' multiple affairs has been put in to good use by the animal rights group PETA. In a bid to save tigers, the golfer's picture wearing an orange shirt will be featured on a new billboard to be put up the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The ad will bear the tagline 'Too Much Sex Can Be a Bad Thing'. The organisation has not got Tiger's permission to publish the ad, reported aceshowbiz.com 'It's a fun, tongue-in-cheek approach,' said Virginia Fort, who worked on the project. 'The ad is strictly meant to help animals and not to offend the golfer and his family. The world has been transfixed on Tiger's life after Thanksgiving. We're putting the focus where it needs to be.' 'We're sure Tiger will appreciate our attempt, from a story that's distracted the world and followed Tiger, to turn it into something positive for little tigers,' a

Disney's Pixar Animation Studios head into the next week's Oscars with the only movie ever nominated for both best film and best animated film, "Up," about an old man and boy on an adventure in a faraway land. Since its release last spring, "Up" has sold more than $725 million worth of tickets worldwide. It follows a string of successes that include "The Incredibles" and "Cars." Disney/Pixar chief creative officer John Lasseter, a major star in the world of animation, spoke to Reuters about "Up" and the company's moviemaking philosophy, including another Disney Oscar hopeful, "The Princess and the Frog." Q: Any film with the Pixar stamp seems to spell success. Do you ever worry that a film may stumble? A: "Probably more than any other movie we've made here at Pixar, "Up" was the one we were the most nervous about ... Our audience is so important to us. Every single da

In a bid to save the environment, actress Gul Panag Thursday appealed to Mumbaikars to shun plastic. 'I believe that the type of people who stay in Mumbai and earn their living, are all aware of their surroundings and if we appeal to them with the objective of this project 'Say No To Plastic', I think they will surely be a part of it. With their cooperation, we can take forward this responsibility,' Panag told reporters after the official launch of the Green Commandoes project here Thursday. Green Commandoes will start its first initiative 'Say No To Plastic', which will be carried out in 400 areas of Mumbai. Green Commandoes will engage themselves with local communities to make their neighbourhood plastic free and eco-friendly. 'I will truly be associated with all the activities of Green Commandoes,' said Panag. The actress maintained that people keep their homes clean but don't do the same while on the road. 'Peopl

Supermodel Naomi Campbell admires the 'Material Girl' singer Madonna's fashion sense and her ability to reinvent herself time after time. 'I think my style icons are people who reinvent themselves - they come back with a different look, a different vibe, a different sound and Madonna is definitely one of those people', femalefirst.co.uk quoted her saying. 'It's just amazing to watch her through all these decades - she just keeps coming back,' the model said.

Jackie, starring power star Puneeth Rajakumar and Malayalam actress Bhavana will kick start on 3rd March. The film is directed by Soori of Dhuniya, Inthi Ninna Preeethiya and Junglee fame. The film is produced by Parvathamma Rajakumar under Dr. Rajakumar's family banner Poornima Enterprises, which has produced over 75 films so far.

Popular singer Shakira has opened up about her decision to cast Rafael Nadal in a new music video and insists she picked the tennis ace to be her leading man because she 'identifies' with him. The Colombian singer had sparked reports of a new romance with Nadal when they were photographed meeting together, shortly before filming a steamy promo for Shakira's new single 'Gypsy', reports dailystar.co.uk. 'I thought that maybe I needed someone (in the video) I could relate to in some way and Rafael is a person who has been totally committed to his career since he was very young and I identify a lot with him,' said Shakira.

National award winning Priyamani has awesome screen chemistry with prime star Jagapathi Babu! And they have co-starred in a number of films too like Pellaina Kothallo, Pravarakhyudu, Sadhyam and Baburao... Ninnodala! But does it mean that both actors have any relationships beyond professional boundaries? Unfortunately, this is what a few Telugu newspapers and websites had written recently about the duo's relationship. Annoyed by these reports, Priyamani dismissed all speculative and unsubstantiated reports, saying that they are figments of some ugly mind's imagination. I acted with Jagapathi Babu in my first Telugu film, which became a big hit. Then I have acted with him in the recently released Pravarakyudu which has also been received well. My next release Sadhyam is also with him. But I have also acted with other heroes like Tarak (NTR), Ravi Teja and Nitin. Just because I have worked with Jagapathi in many films, you cannot link me with him. I enjoy a good frien

George Clooney has put up his villa on Lake Como for sale because of harassment by paparazzi, a leading British daily has reported. According to the Times of London, the Hollywood star wants to sell off the Villa Oleandra at Laglio on Lake Como, which he bought in 2002 for a reported 10 million dollars. Footie David Beckham and the Russian vodka and banking magnet mogul Tariko Roustam are among those vying for the property, reports The New York Post. Clooney became an honorary citizen of the town of Laglio in northern Italy, in 2004. However his girlfriend Elisabetta Canalis, a former Italian showgirl and television hostess, was said to be "furious and exasperated" last summer when the paparazzi stalked the villa and "made our life Hell." The couple were especially furious when snappers climbed over the villa wall and took photos of an underage girl while she was changing in one of his guest rooms, as well a

South Indian glamorous actress Anushka Shetty of Arundhati fame, who has been reportedly dating reigning villain-turned-hero Gopichand, is finally getting ready to enter the wedlock with her fiance, it is said. The marriage is likely to take place next year as both their families have given consent to the marriage. Mangalore girl Anushka Shetty and Gopichand have acted together in three movies so far including Lakshyam and Souryam. It is said that they fell in love during the shooting of Souryam. While Souryam was on floors, Anushka purchased a flat in Hyderabad in the same complex where Gopichand owns a flat and used to travel along with Gopichand in the same car to the set and back home. Meanwhile, Gopichand didn't give a proper reply when asked about his marriage with Anushka and just said that they are gossips and there is no truth in it.

Shankar, the magnificent director has been producing quite a number of beautiful projects recently; the latest was Eeram. Now there are reports that his next production Ananthapurathu Veedu will grace theatres in summer. Ananthapurathu Veedu is directed by 'Marmadesam' fame Naga. The film belongs to horror genre, and deals with supernatural powers. Shankar is known to produce movies with a difference and when Naga approached him with different scripts, Shankar was impressed with all the options and gave Naga the freedom to choose whichever he wanted. It is believed that Shankar was very pleased with Nandha's performance in Eeram directed by Arivazhagan, and decided to cast him again for Ananthapurathu Veedu, which also has Chaya Singh in a prominent role.

Putting an end to all the speculations that her marriage is on rocks, pretty actress Meena has clarified that her marriage life is going on well. She also said that her husband's family is supportive of all the career moves she makes. Meena got married to Bangalore-based software engineer Vidyasagar last year, after few months there were reports that the marriage is on rocks and the couple may move the court for divorce.

Actor Matthew Fox has become the latest celeb to be accused of having an extra-marital affair. Stefani Talbott, 25, a stripper from Bend, Oregon, has claimed to have had an affair with the "Lost" star last July while she was employed at Stars Cabaret. "I was dancing onstage, and I made eye contact with him immediately. I got so excited," the New York Daily News quoted Talbott, as telling Touch Weekly. Even as the actor's rep has said the "accusations are false," Talbott claims Fox paid for four 20-dollar private dances from her and later had her join him at a house he was putting up with pals. "We sat around and talked about his show. He complimented me and was saying how down-to-earth I am. He told me he was going to be in town for a couple of days...He didn't tell me to keep it a secret or anything. He didn't even use protection. He didn't seem concerned at all," she recollected. Ta

Pop star Lady Gaga recently took an HIV test. The 'Bad Romance' singer took the test in New York because she felt she was not taking proper care of her health during her tours, reported contactmusic.com 'I had an HIV test two days ago and it's not because I'm taking off my clothes every night with a different man. When I'm on the road, I forget about taking care of my body. I don't go to the doctor as regularly as if I were in one place all the time,' she said. 'So I woke up and thought, 'Oh, I'm home in New York. I'm going to see my gyno and I'm getting an HIV test',' she added.

Hollywood actress Lindsay Lohan doesn't like to plan her life because she believes life is mysterious. 'I don't like to plan my life because I don't know. I can't decide what is going to happen. I don't want to know, actually. That is the nice thing about life. It is a bit mysterious,' okmagazine.com quoted Lohan as saying.

Shahid Kapoor is working hard on his Michael Jackson act for the Filmfare awards, even if it means rehearsing on his birthday Thursday. Says Shahid: 'The Filmfare organisers felt I could do the Michael Jackson tribute. And I took up the challenge. 'We didn't have much time to rehearse, only four days. But I've grown up watching MJ's music videos, am a huge fan, so it wasn't difficult to master the choreography. I will be paying a tribute, not copying MJ. But it is better not to adulterate his steps,' he adds. While other performers at the Filmfare awards Saturday will have their acts recorded, Shahid will perform live. Says the focussed performer: 'Yes, I'll be going live... an eight-minute homage. I love dancing on stage. In India, there's no specific culture for stage performances. 'Out West, there's a huge market for live performances. Their films don't have songs and dances. Their pop stars have a vibrant stage culture. So, stage

Bollywood star Shahid Kapoor , who turned 29 Thursday, was given a surprise birthday party by his family and friends. 'I was given a surprise birthday party and I sure was surprised. Even dad and family were in on it. Wow! It's actually my first surprise birthday party,' Shahid posted on micro-blogging site Twitter. The actor was wished by a number of celebrities, including Karan Johar and Farah Ali Khan. He has thanked everyone for their wishes. 'Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for all the birthday wishes. Love you all,' he added. Shahid's friend and co-star of his last release 'Chance Pe Dance', Genelia D'Souza, too attended the party. -*- Vivek learns to play drums for 'Prince' After learning how to strum a guitar for his film 'Omkara', Bollywood star Vivek Oberoi has now learnt how to play the drums for his forthcoming film 'Prince'. For a sequence in the song 'Oh mere khuda', Vivek was to be shown play

Hollywood actor Johnny Depp, who is working with Angelina Jolie for the first time in the movie 'The Tourist' is impressed by his co-star and says that she is like a doll. 'I had never met Angelina before, but I found her to be a real treat, I mean a real doll. She is a nice woman, serious about what she does and loves her man and loves her kids. I was very impressed,' starpulse.com quoted Depp as saying.

Hollywood actor Bruce Willis says he can do anything for his daughters because they rule his emotions. The 54-year-old actor has three daughters Rumer, 21, Scout, 18, and 16-year-old Tallulah Belle, reported contactmusic.com 'In real life, my daughters really rule my emotions, and I would do anything for them,' said the actor.

Surely, this is one rockinggggggg premises! Presently, they're all set to bring the house down with excitement over 'Patiala House', Akshay Kumar's home production which showcases the super 'Bobby' duo of Rishi Kapoor and Dimple Kapadia. Reportedly, the two are always ribbing each other and are having a whale of a time, even as work on Nikhil Advani's flick proceeds at a brisk pace. DK, as gorgeous as ever, doesn't spare her son in law, either. When discussing her daughter Twinkle, Dimple often addresses her as "teri biwi." Not to be outdone, producer Akshay often retaliates with his "teri beti" lines… Guess, it's just a family drama.

Her serious halo in parallel cinema has often overshadowed the fun side of Konkona Sen Sharma. 'Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge' will showcase the comic timing of the two time National award winner. "My comic roles in 'Life in a Metro' and 'The President Is Coming' have gone largely unnoticed," she declares in a media chat. "And in 'Aaja Nachle' I almost made a fool of myself." 'Atithi.., though, is her maiden full throttle comedy, and Konkona is sanguine of its outcome. The movie details the lives of a Mumbai couple which goes all topsy turvy when a long lost relative visits them… and stays put, much to their discomfort, leading to super funny situations. Explaining her rationale for assenting to the Ashwni Dhir helmed flick, Konkona states, "Apart from the script which I loved, I also wanted the opportunity to work with Ajay Devgn and Paresh Rawal. Ajay and I are similar souls and since I knew him from the 'Omkara' days, we ha

It's a spectacular win win situation for Shah Rukh Khan, Karan Johar and Fox Searchlight. 'My Name Is Khan' became the third film in Bollywood history to bag 150 crores worldwide, and in doing so has ushered itself into a supremely select group of films. Trade sources are already hailing it as the highest Shah Rukh Khan phillum, ever. Only SRK could have managed this triumph. In Februrary, cold weather and exams in parts of India are often cited as dampeners for cine business. 'MNIK', however, as vaulted itself to fame, despite the blasts and controversies. Within a span of 10 days, 'MNIK' earned the distinction of doing business double the size of any Bollywood movie released in February. It's raking in the lolly by the bushels across international markets. 'MNIK' is already being hailed as the biggest Bollywood film of all time within 10 days in the UAE, South Africa, Holland, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, East and West Africa, Denmark, Norw

With all the attendant buzz surrounding the Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2010 pageant, the spotlight has shifted to Priyanka Chopra, as well. From Miss India 2000 title winner to turning Miss World 2000, Chopra has traversed the global route to Big Time success. A small time girl from Bareilly, who's lassoed in the National award, no less, for her gut wrenching portrayal in Madhur Bhandarkar's 'Fashion'. Incidentally, filmmakers Bhandarkar and Vipul Amrutlal Shah will cast a discerning eye and handpick Miss India contestants for their movies. A strategy, which Chopra is expressly thrilled about, as the Miss India participants could land plum roles in the ventures of both filmmakers, even as the qualifying rounds of the pageant are being held! Hailing the move as a "fantastic opportunity for the eventual winners", Chopra asserts that the prospect of teaming up with Bhandarkar and Shah will catapult the careers of the chosen few into the big league of show biz.

The unusual two of 'Karthik Calling Karthik' are generating awesome hype, which works in favour of the flick. Er, media buzz citing a romantic bonding between Farhan Akhtar and Deepika Padukone too has escalated to a high. Padukone, however, is far from amused and has been slamming all such talk vehemently, asserting that "such stuff should not be written." Her liaison with love interest Ranbir Kapoor has gone kaput, though DP insists that she's looking forward to the Vicky Singh venture starring the two. "I have no problem working with Ranbir," she asserts in a media chat. "But the role, the script and the director have to be all right." Guess, DP's all sorted out.

His spirits are buoyed with 'Karthik Calling Karthik' readying to illumine screens shortly. Farhan Akhtar, though, confesses that his role in the Vijay Lalwani helmed flick did take its toll on the personal front. Admittedly, he stopped meeting pals, taking phone calls and even exercising. "My character in the film is lonely and feels very sorry for himself," says Farhan in a media chat. "I ended up feeling quite down in the dumps myself." Professionally, Farhan is on a stage two level… a sequel trip.'Don2', will flag off shooting from October; 'Dil Chahta Hai' is also being slated for a sequel and if all izz well… 'Rock On!!' too may have a second go. "If Abhishek (Kapoor) decides to do a second part, I'll go along with the idea," asserts Farhan. Seconding success, eh?

A strand of Elvis Presley's hair may fetch up to 600 pounds at an auction. A music fan from Gloucestershire who bought the strand "on a whim" through a television auction is selling the piece of the King's hair, reports The Mirror. According to county auctioneer Chorley's, the item of memorabilia is set to make between 400 pounds and 600 pounds. It is mounted in the centre of a gold disc inscribed The King's Authentic Hair, together with a photograph of the singer and a certificate of authenticity on the reverse. Sale will take place at Prinknash Abbey Park in Gloucestershire

American actor Johnny Depp and French singer Vanessa Paradis have been revealed to not be keeping up with their hygiene. According to sources who work with the two, Depp, 46, and Paradis, 37, aren't always as clean as they appear to be, with the actor rarely taking a shower. "Johnny usually smells because he rarely showers," Fox News quoted sources as saying. "He isn't big on personal cleanliness and Vanessa isn't much different. They found their perfect match in each other - it's hard to be around them. Their personal hygiene is not their priority. "Vanessa is the furthest thing from a supermodel every second that she isn't on a big photo shoot. No makeup and unruly hair - she's a bit of a mess normally. "When Johnny shows up for work or travel, he's usually in rough shape. If he's showing up for work on set, he'll be a total professional, but that doesn't mean he'll be shiny and clean. "He entrusts his movie lo

Cheryl Cole is reportedly set to break her silence about her split from cheating husband Ashley in an interview with Jonathan Ross. The Girls Aloud singer will make an appearance on BBC One's Friday Night With Jonathan Ross on March 12. She is expected to finally speak out against the footballer following infidelity claims, which were not his first, the Telegraph reported. Cole last broke her silence on Ashley's reported one-night stand with a hairdresser on Ross' show in 2008 when she revealed she was tempted to bury her wedding ring in his head. She is now purportedly poised to unveil a tell-all tale about her impending divorce from the star.

British model Elizabeth Hurley was recently spotted wearing a sheer sari gown with no bra or blouse on. Hurley, 44, was attending the Love Ball London with husband Arun Nayar on February 23, reports Us magazine. She was feeling a little more modest after the event, and was seen covering her chest with a folder and handbag. Hurley had married Nayar in 2007 in a Hindu-themed ceremony.

'Slumdog Millionaire' actress Freida Pinto has signed a fantasy-action-drama film 'War of Gods' and will portray the character of oracle priestess Phaedra. Directed by Indian filmmaker Tarsem Singh Dhandwar, the movie is anticipated to be high on action and special effects and might also be made into a 3D movie. Freida's spokesperson has confirmed that she (Freida) would be part of the film and refused to divulge any more details about the project. The film is about Theseus, played by Henry Cavill, a warrior from Greek mythology who takes on the Greek gods. Phaedra is an ally with Theseus in his fight against the titans. The movie is slated for a 2011 release with production starting in April.

Jessica Simpson may speak her mind about former boyfriend John Mayer when she makes a guest appearance on "Oprah". The actress, who dated Mayer until 2007, sparked speculation she may settle scores with the singer after he called her "sexual napalm" and likened her to his own personal brand of crack cocaine in a Playboy interview. According to tvguide.com, the date for the appearance was yet to be set, the New York Post reported. Representatives for Oprah Winfrey and Simpson refused to confirm if the subject would be touched upon during the upcoming episode. But sources claimed the chances of Simpson breaking her silence on the topic could not be ruled out.

Actress Mary-Kate Olsen has resumed her single status after splitting from her boyfriend. The Full House star, who worked with her twin sister to portray Michelle Tanner on the series, began dating Nate Lowman in 2008. The pair was reported to be getting serious with rumours claiming a 2010 wedding may be in the pipeline, the Daily Star reported. But a spokesperson for the star dismissed the speculation, saying the two were no longer together. The spokesperson told Us Weekly magazine: "No, they are not (together any more). It's been a while."

Joely Richardson, Kate Moss and Elizabeth Hurley were rushed from the premises of a London Fashion Week event following a fire scare. Guests attending the evening in aid of the Naked Heart Foundation at the Love Ball London bash were evacuated when fire alarms went off just minutes after Leona Lewis' performance at the fundraiser. "Wow fire alarms gone off at the ball! We all had to evacuate! Standing outside now loads of people on the street, fire trucks and all!" the Daily Star quoted Lewis as saying on her Twitter page. The stars later returned to the venue after an hour and a half. The Daily Mail newspaper reported the alarms were triggered off by dry ice inside the venue

After Woody Allen's "You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger", BAFTA nominated Freida Pinto has now been reportedly picked up for epic "Dawn of War". For this Montreal (Canada) based fantasy-action-drama film, she will reportedly play Phaedra, an oracle priestess who joins Greek mythic warrior hero Theseus (portrayed by "The Tudors" star Henry Cavill) who heads a successful war against imprisoned Titans. Studio executives of this most anticipated film full of special effects about ancient Greek epic directed by Tarsem Singh Dhandwar (The Fall) are reportedly looking into the prospect of filming it in 3D. Written by Charley Parlapanides (Everything for a Reason) and Vlas Parlapanides (Across the Sea), and edited by Robert Duffy (Ambush), it is reportedly slated for a 2011 release with production starting in April. Tarsem has been quoted as describing "Dawn of War" as: "hardcore action film done in Renaissance painting style". Pinto, 25, b

Kirk Douglas has confessed he is a better person and does not take his life for granted after suffering a stroke. The 93-year-old acting legend, who had to re-learn how to talk after the brain condition affected his ability to speak, said the health battle taught him well to appreciate life. "It affected my speech. I couldn't talk. Now talking is something we take for granted. We think of something and we say it. We are not concerned with all the mechanisms that are involved in speaking, we don't appreciate it. Like so many things in life, we don't appreciate what we have," the Daily Express quoted Douglas as saying in a posting on his Myspace.com page. "My first reaction to my stroke was to say nothing. It was too much effort to construct the words, the muscles in my tongue, my teeth, I couldn't coordinate them properly to say a word. It was easier just to say nothing. "But to say nothing is to withdraw from life. I was not ready for that. So, like

British singer Leona Lewis has been showing off her new tattoo -- a poem on her favourite animal, the horse. The poem is inked in a long line down her spine as a permanent tribute to the horse, reports thesun.co.uk. The poem reads - 'Their beauty captures every eye, a gift from god for all man kind, they lend us wings so we may fly, to ride a horse is to ride the sky.' Lewis, whose recently released her new single 'I Got You' said: 'It's a bit weird but then I'm a bit weird, so that's okay.'

A ban on a decades-old and colourful tradition of kite-flying has riled many Pakistanis, but authorities say the sport has killed people and encourages "immoral" celebrations. The annual kite-flying festival of Basant, which marks the start of spring in eastern Punjab, involves aerial duels in which participants try to bring down each other's kites using string coated in a sticky paste of ground-up glass or metal. Women dress in their most brilliant colours for what's become a major festival drawing thousands of celebrants to Lahore as well as multinational companies that rent rooftops for clients and guests. "It's our culture," said Shoaib Mehmood Naqeebi, a shopkeeper in Lahore. "Our forefathers were celebrating it. It's an event where we share happiness with family and friends. It's fun. It's harmless." But Pakistan's Supreme Court banned kite-flying nationwide in 2005 in response to an outcry over injuries and deaths caused