Though Amitabh Bachchan wasn't in a very birthday mood this year, son Abhishek flew down specially from Paris for the occasion and managed to bring a smile to the saddened icon's heart.
The superstar's birthday was marred by his mother's critical health and then came the news of the death of his industrialist friend Lalit Suri.
But the family got together to celebrate a quiet birthday.
"My sister Shweta flew down from Delhi for the day. Dad was really excited about that. The entire family was together. Nothing could've made him happier. It takes very little for us to be happy. We, as a family, are happy as long as we're together. We just spent the entire day quietly together," Abhishek told IANS.
Abhishek went to Chennai immediately after Amitabh's birthday on Oct 11 to complete the last four days of Mani Ratnam's "Guru".
Another birthday gift that made the entire family happy is the Legion Of Honour that the French government announced for the super-icon.
"What a fabulous gift for dad on his birthday! It's fantastic. Earlier, I believe Satyajit Ray got it. Well, great. It just shows that Indian cinema is making inroads into the West. It was high time that the world stood up and recognised Indian cinema. And they are doing precisely that.
"And to have dad spearheading Bollywood's amazing movement onto a global platform, makes me very proud as a son, as I'm sure it makes everyone else proud. We as a family are truly honoured. It's matter of pride for every Indian when a recognition like this comes to dad from a cinema-savvy country like France."
According to Abhishek, "The most wonderful gift that dad got this birthday was the love of his fans that he gets every year... But the Legion Of Honour comes a close second."
Abhishek is enthusiasm personified about his dad's role in Ram Gopal Varma's "Sholay".
"I think it's a wonderful idea to remake 'Sholay'. Every filmmaker has the creative right to carry his vision into whatever area he chooses. Ramu is a wonderful director and a filmmaker I've immense faith in. I was very upset when I couldn't do Ramu's 'Sholay' due to time constraints. But I think Ramu's 'Sholay' will be a brilliant interpretation of Ramesh uncle (Sippy)'s classic."
What about all the voices expressing doubts over the project?
"There'll always be naysayers. All I can say is, knowing Ramu's abilities from close quarters I'm pretty sure even Ramesh uncle will be very proud of the film Ramu makes."
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"It's very boring to rave about Mr Amitabh Bachchan. Every director does so after working with him. Now after having worked with him I know why they do so. After so many films and years he still has the capacity to surprise you.
People say he's doing too many films. But I'd like to evaluate him solely for what he does in my Sarkar. Mr Bachchan has reached a legendary status where he can never be blamed for a film's failure. Sarkar is my tribute to the talent of Amitabh Bachchan. And only his face appears on all the hoardings. I've always been
a huge fan of his.
So far I had restrained myself from working with him. I've gone to him only when I had the role to justify his presence. I made them do exactly what the script required without worrying about what the so-called market expected from me.
Let's be honest. I designed Sarkar for Amitabh Bachchan. Abhishek came in later. I was too much in awe of the senior to concern myself about the junior. Like most moviegoers I grew up watching the senior Bachchan doing amazing things on screen. To do justice to his presence in my work I had to design something that was as good as his best works.
Whether I succeeded or not is secondary. I took my time to conceive a role that would showcase Amitabh Bachchan the way I wanted to see him. Were it not for Mr Bachchan I wouldn't have made Sarkar. For me he's a superstar. I'm not interested in seeing him as an actor. I want to see him larger than life.
To me he's the big brother who'll take care of my
problems. In Sarkar I want to recreate the intensity that he exuded in Zanjeer and Deewar, obviously keeping his age in mind.
I think he's the only actor in Indian cinema who can hold the camera without saying a word. He always seems to be communicating directly with every member of the audience. You're awed and inspired by that one impenetrable stare. That's awesome. Mr Bachchan has taken Sarkar much beyond where I could ever take it. Many actors give good performances without understanding the craft.
But Mr Bachchan understands the craft and yet remains completely authentic on screen. He adds immensely to the writer and director's vision. I feel over the years, the directors began to depend too much on his persona. The one-liners in Deewaar and Namak Haraam became one-pagers in subsequent films.
I found that tense element missing in his recent films. In Sarkar I wanted to recreate that tense aura of the one-liners. I wanted to let his silences speak
louder than his words. Even in real life he has the habit of looking blankly at you, so that you don't know how his mind is working.
Yes, the interaction with him was definitely exceptional. I'm the lion who has tasted blood. I'll work with him again and again. In fact I've already directed him again, in an episode of Darna Zaroori Hai, my sequel to the horror trilogy Darna Manaa Hai.
As for Abhishek, The best compliment for his performance came from a projectionist who was at a preview of the film. 'Aisee film to maine dekhi nahin. Amitabh aur Abhishek ki acting dekh kar pataa nahin chalta kaun kisska baap hai.'
When Mr Bachchan came he grew on us. I didn't know who he was. Then one day I saw him in Zanjeer, Deewaar, Sholay….His personality grew in my mind. Abhishek came in as Amitabh Bachchan's son, so the expectations were extraordinarily high. And then on top of that Abhishek was made to do all those NRI films which didn't suit him.
If Mr
Bachchan followed up Zanjeer with those Rajesh Khanna films from the earlier era, I doubt he would be such a big star. I think it's a very progressive cinema… Every star is a product of his times. Though loved him Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge I don't think Shah Rukh Khan would've worked in Zanjeer or Deewaar.
When Abhishek came he wasn't being given the chance to develop his own identity. In my Naach which was done with a modicum of realism, his capability was tapped, though not fully. I think I've done that in Sarkar. I've understood his potential here. Mr Bachchan would've done this kind of a thing in the beginning of his career.
To see Abhishek do the same was a shock to me. When I finally worked with him, his novelty struck me dead-on. I think Abhishek is a very very different actor from his father. Though there's a genetic likeness their approach to a scene and mode of performance are remarkably different. He's extremely involved on the sets.
I'd
listen more to Abhishek's than his father's suggestions. Abhishek is extremely perceptive. His understanding of life is more contemporary than me or Mr Bachchan. After working with Abhishek Bachchan in Naach I feel he's as incredible as his father. I hadn't seen any of his films before signing him.
I just saw the promotional clippings of Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon. I was quite impressed. In a very bright film he was so subdued. I like his body language, his smile and the intensity in his eyes. In Naach I was taken aback by his performance. He has gone way beyond what I expected.
To me Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan are completely different actors. And even if they weren't related I'd still want only the two of them for the two roles in Sarkar. I'm not impressed by gimmicky attempts to bring exciting combinations together. For me the characters dictate the actors. And Sarkar demanded Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan.
Sarkar was a project that I had in mind
for some years now. By the time the script crystallized, a lot of time had passed. But I knew I wanted the senior Bachchan in the title role."
By Chanakya Dhanda (IndiaFM News Bureau), October 11, 2006 - 02:11 IST
Umrao Jaan, the divine courtesan left many spellbound. Those who read the book as well as those who saw the movie, were bewildered by the courtesan. But there is something very strange about Umrao Jaan and the Bachchan family. There is a connection which binds them yet makes them reluctant to admit their liking for Umrao Jaan.
Harivansh Rai Bachchan, the poet, the writer, the man who made the world realize that
pen is mightier than sword. Well the seeds of Umrao Jaan start here. It is a known fact that Harivansh Rai Bachchan was a good reader. Umrao Jaan the book was a wonderful peace of writing. So being a connoisseur for good books, we assume Harivansh Rai Bachchan must have read the Umrao Jaan and the seeds of falling in love with her started there. This may just have been the beginning.
Amitabh Bachchan, the superstar, the legend, the icon was at his peak during the 70’s and 80’s as a leading hero. He had a fan following of millions amongst whom maximum were girls. He was married to another superstar, Jaya Bachchan. But then there was Umrao Jaan. Rekha, the sweetheart of many, played the character of Umrao Jaan. Playing the character of Umrao Jaan, even the most eligible bachelors along with married men could not resist falling in love with her. One of the men was Amitabh Bachchan. Rumors were rife at that time that
Amitabh Bachchan was in a relation with Rekha. And the grapevine said that Amitabh was so much into the relation that he left his house with Jaya and went in to stay with Rekha. He was supposedly in love with Rekha, the Umrao Jaan. Throughout his career, Amitabh never commented on Rekha and his love story for reasons best known to them.
Two decades later, things have changed. Another Umrao Jaan is in the making. This time it is Aishwarya who plays Umrao Jaan. But one thing that has not changed is a Bachchan falling in love with the new Umrao Jaan. This time it is Amitabh’s son, Abhishek Bachchan’s turn to continue the legacy of falling in love with Umrao Jaan. Like his father, he also refuses to comment on his relation with Aishwarya. Well, we are not saying anything. But as they say, History speaks
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"He's one of the finest humanbeings he has ever meet. He works 20 hours and day and yet remains charged and passionate about his job. In Black he plays a man who lives on the edge. It required a great deal of energy. Mr Bachchan had it, and how! No director's portfolio is complete without working with Amitabh Bachchan.
Every filmmaker has so much to learn from him. I learnt so much from him about the craft and spontaneity of acting. He's a very inspiring artiste. Doing Black I understood he was a maestro. His complete understanding of all
aesthetic arts—from music to theatre to photography to cinematography and screenplay—makes him a complete actor.
He's so well-versed with all forms of art that he can delve deep down within himself to find references from every scene and emotion. The ups and downs of life have been handled by him with such dignity. That quality shows in his performance. When his fans and admirers—and I'm one of them-- say Amitji is the God of acting and he deserves an Oscar for Black I think they want to tell him he has reached international standards of performance.
I agree with that view completely. If nothing else then Black must be acknowledged for Amitabh Bachchan's brilliance and excellence. It won't return for a long time. He has performed his character with such flamboyance and élan.
It isn't over-the-top acting, as some cynics have said. It's a passionate confirmation of life, no less. Whether it Black or Sarkar,it's fascinating to know that even today
filmmakers are devising projects with him in mind. I think that makes him the greatest star-actor of our country. I've been his diehard fan from childhood.
Ever since I started making movies it was my dream to work with him. Even my first film Khamoshi was written for Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan. But at that point of time he had taken a break from acting, and I felt with a baritone like his, he 'd never come back with a role that required him to be mute.
For the fear of rejection I never approached him. But let me tell you, during Khamoshi I had already started to plan Black.. I've realized there's no actor like him in Indian cinema. I've three idols Lata Mangeshkar, Birju Maharaj and Amitabh Bachchan. And I'm proud to say I've worked with two of them.
"I haven't worked with Abhishek... But he's a wonderful guy and a fine son, and he's evolved as an actor. From Bunty Aur Babli where he's bubbly to Sarkar where he's so intense…. For me Yuva is a turning
point for Abhishek. In that complex role I realized Abhishek had arrived.
No actor could've done a better job. He uses his eyes beautifully on screen. He had to fulfil the responsibility of being Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan's son without losing his identity. How gracefully he managed to come into his own! Now he's liberated and passionate on screen.
The beauty of being Abhishek Bachchan is that he lives up to his parents' image without being their clones. He's a warrior. For four years he has withstood the vicious criticism in the wake of his flops and emerged as a powerful force. Look at him in Sarkar.
He stands tall and so sensitive. I think he has inherited his inner strength from his father. When we see father and son perform we can see Abhishek's reverence and yet it isn't blind awe.
Mr Bachchan too gives Abhishek the space to express himself without undermining his histrionic powers to let his son shine. Watch them dance with Aishwarya in
Kajrare (Bunty Aur Babli). They both give their best, and are yet so complementary.
Outside Big B's house Wednesday, October 11, 2006 06:23:40 pm
Fans continue to hold fort outside Jalsa, Amitabh Bachchan's home. Fans of the mega-star poured in from different parts of the country such as Pune, Varanasi, Delhi and even from faraway Assam.
Some of them have arrived out of habit because it is a yearly pilgrimage they make to the superstar's residence, on the 11th of October. And for some
others, the tradition is something totally new. And most of them know all the dialogues of the Big B.
At an age where most of his contemporaries have faded into oblivion, Amitabh Bachchan is still giving even the best from the current Bollywood crop a run for their money. All the top notch directors also still queue up to have the Bachchan tag on their credit roll.
And though the Big B took a break from work today, there were no celebrations lined up. With his mother Teji Bachchan critically ill in the hospital, the Bachchan household was in no mood to celebrate.
"My mother is not well; she's in hospital right now. I just want to spend the day with my family. Even Abhishek will be returning from Madurai, and today we all plan to stay together as a family," Big B told media persons.
But his fans really didn't take no for an answer. So they went on with a birthday party of their own.
It's celebration time outside Jalsa - the Bachchan residence - in Mumbai as fans have been camping since last night for a glimpse of the actor and to wish him on his birthday. Amitabh Bachchan might have turned 64 today but here is one actor who has given the tag evergreen hero a whole new meaning altogether.
Remakes of Bachchan's biggest hits like 'Don' and 'Sholay' just go to prove that the magic called Bachchan is here to stay, well beyond his 64 years.
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Hey all,
I would like to apologise in changing the homepage so late! Have been
caught up with work lately.
Anyways its changed now and we are promoting "Umrao Jaan" this month!
Have fun guys and enjoi!
Neetu
By IndiaFM News Bureau, October 10, 2006 - 09:00 IST
Bipasha has already created waves by posing in a bikini in the Dhoom 2 theatrical promo. And now, we have learnt that Bips has also sung a song in the film. According to sources, Bipasha has sung some lines in the track called ‘My Name Is Ali’ in the film. From the lyrics, we can assume that the song would be focused on Uday Chopra since his character s name is Ali. Who knows, this might just be another
‘Dilbara’ like number where Uday is hitting on Bips. The music of the film is done by Pritam who was also responsible for the foot tapping music of Dhoom. And when we checked with Pritam on this, as expected, he refused to comment. The suspense will be unveiled on October 19 when the music of the film is being released.
Dhoom 2 is a sequel to Dhoom and stars Hrithik Roshan, Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchan, Uday Chopra and Bipasha Basu. The film is an action-thriller and is directed by Sanjay Gadhvi under the banner of Yash Raj Films.
October 09, 2006 18:31 IST Paris trips are fun, but sometimes more than you expect.
Reader P Kumar sent us this photograph of his cousin Rajesh who happened to bump into Abhishek Bachchan in Paris.
A film crew around Abhishek (which included Lara Dutta) was hesitant about letting Rajesh take the snaps, but apparently Abhi was more than willing to oblige. Now that seems like a fun afternoon.
Actor Abhishek Bachchan has dismissed rumours of tensions between him and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and says he would love to work with Khan
again.
"I don't know where these rumours came from! Shah Rukh is the country's biggest star. Who am I to be insecure about Shah Rukh? I'm thankful to just be in the same film as him. After 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' (KANK), I told Shah Rukh and Karan (Johar) to please consider me for their next film. Because I want to work with Shah Rukh again and I've learnt so much from him! I just wanted to spend as much time as possible with him."
Abhishek can't stop praising Shah Rukh, who he says loves taking care of people.
"He's very hospitable. On the sets he was concerned about everyone. He never indulges in petty bickerings. He's the most selfless person on the sets... He's bothered only about the film, never about himself," Abhishek told IANS.
And the actor reasserts that there were no tensions between anyone on the set of 'KANK' in New York.
"We really had a ball in New York. It couldn't have gotten any better. I've
never seen a more organised producer than Karan Johar and I've never been happier on a film set."
Bachchan Junior agrees that a lot of his own personality has gone into his performance in 'KANK'.
"Since Karan has observed me closely from my childhood, he knows me as a person - my mannerisms and even my emotions. I think he absorbed a lot of these into my performance."
He considers himself lucky to be part of the film as it gave him the opportunity to work with the biggest Bollywood stars.
"I've never worked in a film so big before. You've the country's two biggest stars - Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan in the film. And I was the junior-most member of the cast, given the chance to stand in the same frame as
them. I felt very lucky."
The actor says that 'KANK' is one Karan Johar film that didn't overwhelm him.
"Karan's cinema always overwhelms you with the grandeur, the larger-than-life treatment. In 'KANK' I came out quiet and thinking."
Abhishek also hit out at Karan's critics and said that making a film like he does was actually very tough.
"I always thought making his kind of cinema is very tough. Now after working with him, I respect Karan's cinema even more. Even those who don't like cinema will sit up and take notice. He's taken a subject no one expects him to and has tackled it sensitively."
"Karan has beautifully juxtaposed a very commercial language with real believable characters and situations," remarked Abhishek.
Despite being the junior-most member of the crew, Abhishek felt as though the whole shoot was like a holiday due to the comfort level he shared with all his co-stars.
"I was working with my friends - Rani, Preity, Shah Rukh and Dad ... They're people I hang around with regularly. It was like a holiday and it was a bonus with Rani there as I have worked with her extensively earlier. Shah Rukh and Preity are friends ... We meet at Shah Rukh's house often. Instead of meeting after work we met at work as well," said Abhishek.
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Abhishek Bachchan promoting dad's film 06th Oct 2006 09.01 IST By ApunKaChoice
In a classic case of a young boy turning into a matured individual, Abhishek Bachchan is promoting his father Amitabh Bachchan ’s film.
Abhishek missed the music release of Umrao Jaan due to professional commitments, but Bachchan was present at the function to make up for his son. And now it is a heartening sight to see Abhishek promoting one of the upcoming films of his dad.
Abhishek has been roped in to introduce Bachchan’s debut Bhojpuri film ‘Ganga’ and its male leads Ravi Kishan and Manoj Tiwari for the promos.
The junior Bachchan can be seen on the music channels introducing the film in an interacting mood with the viewers while clips of 'Ganga' fill the gaps between his statements.
The
film is also special for Abhishek since it marks the film-making debut of Deepak Sawant, the makeup man of his father.
Also starring Hema Malini and Nagma , 'Ganga' directed by Abhishek Chadda is touted as the biggest film coming out from Bhojpuri land.
Abhishek himself is all set to rule the last quarter of 2006 with 'Umrao Jaan', Dhoom 2 and Guru – all of which also star the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai .
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A STEP BACK IN TIME: Umrao Jaan promises to take its viewers on a trip down the memory lane.
London: "Kothas were actually the finishing schools of nawabs," J P Dutta, tells in his usual matter-of-factly fashion.
And the claim befits the tale of Umrao Jaan Ada, a Lucknow courtesan who was immortalized on celluloid first by Muzzafar Ali, and 20 years later by Dutta in his Abhishek Bachchan-Aishwarya Rai starrer Umrao Jaan which is slated for release this November.
For Dutta, Umrao Jaan has been a personal vow made to his father 20-years ago.
"My father (OP Dutta) had started a film on the life of Umrao Jaan with yesteryear’s actress Nimmi. But he left it unfinished. I had given him a word way back in 1980’s that I will fulfill his dream," he says.
And he is not the only one who has parental strings attached to the film.
Shabana Azmi will be stepping into her mother Shaukat Kaifi's shoes to essay the role of Khanum Jaan - the trainer of courtesans.
"I don't think it's happened anywhere in the history of world cinema that a mother and her daughter have played exactly the same role. There is something very titillating and exciting about the film. It was also challenging at the same time," she says.
More than a mere remake of the 1981 musical, the film is being publicised as an adaptation of Mirza Haadi Ruswa's novel Umrao Jaan-e-Ada. No wonder Abhishek essaying the role of Nawab Sultan in the film resents comparisons.
"I am not really bothered if people think they need to compare the two films. J P saab never set out to make a remake. He has only made an adaptation of the book, not of Muzaffarji's film," he says.
Aishwarya, who would be seen dancing to traditional mujras in the film says it was all about delivering the best.
"My director wanted to see 'her' (the character) come alive. And to see that smile of satisfaction, that nod of contentment or just
the approval was super precious for me."
An unforgettable tale retold, Umrao Jaan promises to take its viewers on a trip down the memory lane.
By Joginder Tuteja, September 30, 2006 - 21:30 IST
If there is an acid test for Anu Malik this season or in fact this decade, it has to be with 'Umrao Jaan'. The man has seen enough highs and lows in his decades old career so far but the music of 'Umrao Jaan' is something that would be scrutinized by one and all. And why not? After all the tracks from Khayyam's 'Umrao Jaan' are still being appreciated by the connoisseurs of classical Indian music and it is certainly no mean feat to match. Hence when J.P. Dutta picks up the baton to narrate the story while roping in Anu Malik and Javed Akhtar saab, one can't help but look at each and every track with keen
interest. Also with Aishwarya Rai being the central protagonist along with Abhishek Bachchan, Shabana Azmi and Suneil Shetty, one can't help but have mammoth expectations from the film and its music.
So does the team deliver? Does it come close to the classic score from the yesteryears or at least form an identity of its own without worrying about the past? Will Anu Malik have another successful score after 'Jaan-E-Mann'? The answer to each of the questions is yes!
Before one starts hearing the tracks, first thing that strikes on looking at the CD cover is the name of Alka Yagnik. She is practically there for each of the tracks except for a couple and bags a biggie as the voice of legendary Umrao Jaan.
First and foremost she greets you with 'Salaam' and hooks your attention at the very onset. Is it Anu Malik's music, Alka Yagnik's rendition or Javed saab lyrics that make the song special? In fact it's the combination of each of the veterans as they come together to create a mesmerizing 'mujra' track that is in word - flawless. Whether it is a common man or the followers of classical music, the song is going to mesmerize one and all as it hooks on to you in a big way. The setting is just perfect; sets are impeccable, choreography and costumes as per the song's mood while the instruments (ghunghroo, tabla, sitar etc.) create the right ambience to keep you glued to the screen while it is on. A brilliant start to the album!
Sound of 'ghunghroo' begins 'Pehle Pehel' that lives up the class of 'Salaam' and has that lyrical beauty around it that creates such a nice rhythm
that it requires a lot of persuasion to move on the next song. Alka Yagnik is extremely controlled in her rendition and at this very moment one starts wishing that 'Umrao Jaan' may just be a befitting follow-up to the National Award winning score of 'Refugee' by Anu Malik, which was again for J.P. Dutta. A love song set in a tantalizing manner (again as a mujra), it is a worthy follow-up to 'Salaam' and turns out to be a beautiful composition.
Anu Malik shows his prowess as a composer with good classical base in the way he creates the arrangements for the opening of 'Behka Diya Humein'. First (and the only) duet in the album, it is poetry all the way as Sonu Nigam pairs up with Alka Yagnik. Though the song's beginning is a trifle close to Jaidev composed and Suresh Wadekar sung 'Seene Mein Jalan' from the film 'Gaman' (which was incidentally made by Muzaffar Ali himself), it restricts itself
to being an inspiration rather than a copy. The setting is changed completely for this love song that is dreamy all the way, courtesy the sound of the song that has a slight echo effect imparted to the vocals of the lead singers. Sheer poetry coupled with some honest music sans any unwanted ingredients, the album so far is for those who wish to be traversed to a different world altogether.
Alka Yagnik returns to croon a solo in the form of 'Jhute Ilzaam'. The first thing that captivates you about the song is its opening line that sets the pace for rest of the song. 'Jhute Ilzaam Meri Jaan Lagaya Naa Karo, Dil Hai Nazuk Isse Tum Aise Dukhaya Naa Karo' - once you have heard this you know that it is going to be one touching song about Umrao Jaan's feelings for her love. Appropriate for the film's setting, it does have a slight deja vu feel but one doesn't mind that at all since it is just apt for a song like this in a film that tells the story of a courtesan. In
all the songs heard so far, 'Jhute Ilzaam' is undoubtedly the best penned by Javed Akhtar saab as it maintains its lyrical quality from beginning to the end.
"If I am unable to meet you again in the future, do not think about me" - that's the message that Umrao Jaan tries to convey in 'Main Na Mil Saku Jo Tumse', a song that boasts of being seamlessly integrated into the mood of the album. Never once in the entire album does a song look out of place as Anu Malik maintains a consistent tempo throughout while still managing to bring in something new in each of the compositions. 'Main Na Mil Saku Jo Tumse' also transitions well from the songs preceding it and one looks forward to check out what's next in store from this album that has impressed all this while.
'Pooch Rahe Hai' follows next which is about a woman who has found love but is apprehensive about letting it be known to
others. A story is being told by means of this 'mujra' that should be making an appearance at an important point of the film. Conveying a lot through lyrics in which Alka Yagnik immerses herself completely while her rendition, 'Pooch Rahe Hai' has the usual arrangements as per the setting of the music so far and helps take the story forward.
For the first time in the album, someone other than Alka Yagnik is heard rendering a solo with Richa Sharma holding the mike for 'Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya'. Pain is exuded in the right amount with this sensitive track which is about a woman praying to God not to give her a girl child in her next birth. Anu Malik spends more than a couple of minutes to set context for the song before handing it over completely to Richa Sharma to croon the situational track that should form a part of the background score. A seven-minute track, one can expect it to be played at numerous juntures in the film.
Anu Malik's daughter Anmol
Malik makes her debut as a playback singer for the same song [Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya] with a different setting as this time around the daughter herself prays not to be born again as a girl. Rawness in her voice clearly shows in this song sung in a low pitch as there are a couple of moments where her lack of experience is apparent. For the situation this shorter version may work well since in all probability this seems to be for the younger Umrao Jaan.
Another short number (just around 2 minutes) follows in the form of 'Ek Toote Huye Dil Ki' which is a slow paced sad track about the lead protagonist who is heartbroken. With lyrics and rendition holding the center stage, Anu Malik goes easy on the orchestra and keeps it just bare minimum to let the words do the talking - literally! Seeming to be a prelude for some other track to follow in the film, it is for the situation and should keep you interested in the narrative. There is a 40 seconds 'Foreword'
by Javed Akhtar to come in the end that introduces the heritage of Lucknow, Umrao Jaan and her ghazals through a brief narration.
'Umrao Jaan's in undoubtedly a superlative effort by Anu Malik as he goes all out in creating a score when the world was waiting to lynch upon him if he made the slightest of errors. But to his credit, his effort shows as he immerses himself completely in the era of 'Umrao Jaan' and creates an ambience that takes one to a world of the past. In today's music scenario when a couple of albums release every week and at least one big soundtrack arrives every month, one can't claim if 'Umrao Jaan' may have enough retention to go down as a classic. But if one has to analyze some of the best albums of the year 2006, 'Umrao Jaan' would indeed go find a place in the top bracket.
A must buy for those who appreciate quality music.
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The quintessential English game of cricket has featured in Indian films such as "Lagaan" and "Iqbal", but now football is all set to be weaved into an Abhishek Bachchan
starrer that will feature the popular club Chelsea.
The film, titled "Jhoom Barabar Jhoom", will feature Chelsea stars such as Frank Lampard and John Terry.
The film is about the life and loves of Rikki, a Chelsea fan living in London and going to watch his heroes each week. Rikki is played by Abhishek Bachchan. Producers Yash Raj films are in talks with Chelsea about getting some of the players and manager Jose Mourinho to make cameo appearances in the multimillion pound film. It will be released globally in the spring - when the club hopes it will win a third successive Premiership title.
Chelsea's business affairs director Paul Smith said: "We are delighted to be involved in a Bollywood movie and we take it as a big compliment to be approached with this storyline and to be associated with this calibre of actors and actresses.
"We have been looking at ways to reach out to the Brit-Asian community and play a leading role by
involving them more in football. We already host the Asian Cup final and we are now sponsoring a major Asian community award in London."
Smith added: "We are also looking to Asia, particularly India, as part of the strategy of extending the Chelsea brand into new markets. The strategy is focused on media and the power of communicating the club's image. Nothing compares with the glamour and appeal of Bollywood and its stars."
The film was shot in London this summer and features Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, ex-Miss World Aishwarya Rai, Preity Zinta, Bobby Deol and former Miss Universe Lara Dutta.
The cast also includes British Asian actors such as Ameet Chana, Meera
Syal, her teenage daughter Millie Bhatia and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.
Abhishek Bhachchan told the Evening Standard, a local evening tabloid: "I'm a big Chelsea fan. I get all the games taped for me in India and watch them when I come home from the film sets.
"I love the sport and admire the pressure they perform under, week in and week out. One of my favourite players is John Terry and it has been great to see Chelsea live. London is great city and we love to make films in great cities."
Abhishek in Paris but will be back for one day for Dad's birthday
By Subhash K. Jha, October 3, 2006 - 09:00 IST
Abhishek is currently flying high. In more ways than one. Having completed a chunk of the shooting of Shaad Ali's Jhoom Baraabar Jhoom in London he has now moved with the unit to Paris where they shall be parked for some time now.
"I miss home, specially since my grandmother is in the hospital. Also today (Saturday) is the release of the Umrao Jaan's music soundtrack, a
big moment for all of us who have been working on this project. Unfortunately it wasn't possible for the music company to hold over the release until my return. Nor was it practical for me to fly back to Mumbai for a day. So I just had to miss the occasion. But I'm very proud of the soundtrack. It's very different from what we hear these days and far removed from the hip-hop that I've been identified with, but nonetheless very very charming. I'm very fond of the music. JP Saab , Anu Malik and Javed Akhtar have an extraordinary tuning."
Back in Paris, Abhishek refuses to be flattered by being chosen as Asia's sexiest man by a magazine. "I don't even know what sexy means. These are appellations best not taken seriously. But yes, I'm deeply humbled and flattered. Because I've never ever thought of myself as anywhere near sexy. However if people have voted for me, then I respect that. But I'm certainly not going to suddenly acquire an extra swagger just because I've
been called sexy. From where I come, I've seen both the highs and the lows. It's all temporary. And the trick of survival is not to take the trappings seriously. There's no guarantee for a tomorrow in show business. Admitted my dad has proved to be a survivor. But they don't make his kind of entertainers every day."
Speaking of Dad, Abhishek returns to Mumbai just for one day for the senior Bachchan's birthday. Though no celebrations are on the cards this year, Abhishek makes it a point to be near his dad every year for his birthday.
On a less joyous note, Abhishek is somewhat alarmed by a report all over the internet that he asked the immigration in England if he should "drop his pants" during their customary investigation .
"I was aghast when I saw myself quoted with these cheap words all over the net. Firstly, I don't speak like that. Secondly, I'd never be rude to
officials who are merely doing their job. It's not their intention to harass you. Considering what the world situation is, we must all co-operate and be patient. "
… Speaking of rudeness, a Lucknow scholar who plays the role of Rusva (the man who wrote Umrao's biography) in Umrao Jaan is quoted as saying , "Abhishek's well-sculpted body is far outweighed by his arrogance."
Chuckles Abhishek, "I've never met this gentleman. And the proof of this fact lies in the fact that he has called my body well-sculpted."
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The most anticipated film of the year, J P Dutta's Umrao Jaan took another step closer to release.
The music launched on Saturday night at Mumbai's Hyatt regency by Lata Mageshkar.
And even though Abhishek Bachchan was missing, the Big B and the lady in white made up for the absence singing praises for the film's music along with co-star Shabana Azmi.
“I absolutely
love the music of this film, as I said earlier this is my dream come true to work in a movie like this,” said Aishwarya Rai.
Naturally, the director was also talking about the music and the controversy around the story in the film.
Not to be outdone, the music director and the lyricist had their own take.
“It is a story from the 19th century being told in the 21st century, so it had to be kept in mind that it has the flavour of the 19th century music but it should have the sensibilities of the 21st century,” said Javed Akhtar, lyricist.
“This has been a tough challenge. I worked diligently night and day to create this song,” said Anu Malik, Music Director.
But it wasn't just about the music. The leading ladies also talked about their roles.
“It is a very passionate story. The story is a dedication to the girl child of the era,” said Aishwarya.
Remake or original, JP Dutta's Umrao Jaan has already generated enough
interest and hype. One of the most eagerly awaited films of the year, it's set to release on November 3.
Abhishek Bachchan is the brand ambassador of BIG 92.7 FM
By IndiaFM News Bureau, September 26, 2006 - 03:58 IST
Abhishek Bachchan has been signed as the brand ambassador for the radio channel BIG 92.7 FM, an Adlabs Films venture. He believes that his association with BIG 92.7 FM will give him a chance to connect directly with the Indian audiences.
Not only that, BIG 92.7 FM has also signed television celebrities like Mona Singh and Gaurav Gera (of the
Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahi fame) as radio jockeys. It is also believed that comedian Sunil Pal of The Great Indian Laughter Challenge and Shweta Tiwari from Kasauti Zindagi Kay will also host shows on BIG FM.
On the day of its launch, the radio channel also roped in celebrities like Arjun Rampal, Isha Koppikar, Neha Dhupia, Sushma Reddy, singers Shuba Mudgal and Kailash Kher and television actors Smriti Irani, Mandira Bedi and Varun Badola to talk on social awareness issue of safety.
BIG 92.7 FM will be heard across the six metros of Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad, apart from FM radio virgin territories of Jammu, Srinagar and Aligarh.
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Posted Tuesday , October 03, 2006 at 17:29 Updated Tuesday , October 03, 2006 at 19:21
London: With three back-to-back mega-buck capers lined up this Diwali, Abhishek Bachchan has a lot to cheer about. His forthcoming release is J P Dutta's magnum opus Umrao Jaan.
CNN-IBN correspondent Akanksha Banerjee caught up with the star in London to get his take on the
film.
Akansha Banerji: Your latest film Umrao Jaan is releasing on November 3. While comparisons are going to be inevitable, how do you think this it is going to be different than the earlier version?
Abhishek Bachchan: Unfortunately I haven’t seen Muzzafarji's Umrao Jaan. So, I don’t have any authority to comment on his film. I think it would be unfair of me to comment upon something, which I haven’t even seen. I am not really bothered if people think they need to compare the two films. J P saab never set out to make a remake. He has only made an adaptation of the book, not of Muzaffarji's film.
Akansha Banerji: J P Dutta was the director you started your career with. What was it like
working with the same director as a newcomer and now as an experienced actor?
Abhishek Bachchan: This is our third film together. We worked together in LoC in between. I keep telling him jokingly that doing a J P Dutta film is like going on a holiday for me. In fact it’s like coming back home.
Akansha Banerji: Has it got any easier for you to work with your father? Now that you two have done so many films together.
Abhishek Bachchan: It just gets worse actually. You can’t get over with the fact that you are standing in the frame with what is considered the best. It's overwhelming and overpowering. But the best part of doing films with dad is that I get to spend a lot of time with him.
Akansha Banerji: So what else is coming up this year? What are your forthcoming projects?
Abhishek Bachchan: I have got Umrao Jaan releasing on November 3, Dhoom II releasing by the end of November and also Guru which will come up by the year-end.
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Mumbai: Responding to accusations levelled that Hindi Cinema does not produce responsible films, Abhishek Bachchan disagrees. He has said he believes tinsel town produces some good quality and meaningful cinema. In a film industry where we are accused of not making responsible films, Karan Johar is blamed for making a good film like Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna," he said.
Standing by his take on KANK, he said, "Karan in his previous films was known as a candyfloss director. I think he has shown amazing maturity by making a film like KANK, which is thought-provoking and makes you question some very basic things."
"Karan has brought up a very pertinent question in film, 'What if you find your soul mate after marriage?' " added Abhishek.
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In a tête-à-tête with reporters at the ITC Grand Sheraton in Mumbai on Monday, where he had specially flown down from London for the launch of 'Omega' watches, of which he is the brand ambassador, Abhishek stands by KANK as he puts it, "Karan in his previous films was known as a candy
floss director. I think he has shown amazing maturity by making a film like KANK, which is thought-provoking and makes you question some very basic things."
"Karan has brought up a very pertinent question in his film 'KANK' - 'What if you find your soul mate after marriage?"' added Abhishek.
After being chosen the new face of Omega watches, Abhishek joins the illustrious line of stars like Michael Schumacher, Super model Cindy Crawford and Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman.
Reports are that since the film required actors to be garbed in period costumes and lots of jewellery, it would take a long time for the actors – Abhishek, Ash and others – to get ready for the
shot. But Abhishek had an additional burden – the ‘saafa’ or traditional turban (see picture) – which was so long that it took at least ten minutes to tie it around his head.
Director J.P. Dutta had appointed a special ‘saafawala’ to be around Abhishek whenever he needed the turban to be tied around his head.
The saafawala would tie it around Abhishek’s head just before a shot, and in-between shots, Abhishek would take it off as he found it cumbersome.
Things were going on smoothly till one day the saafawala simply disappeared. Everyone got busy looking for the saafawala and the shoot invariably got delayed.
Finally, the unit came up with a solution and one of the production hands was taught how to tie the saafa and was positioned next to Abhishek throughout the shoot.
Only then did Abhishek’s saafa
problems come to an end.
Bollywood'a composer duo Vishal-Shekhar, who gave Abhishek Bachchan a cool-dude attitude with the songs "Dus bahaane" and "Right here right now", are doing a whole album of songs with the actor and claim that it will be a super success.
"We aren't supposed to talk about it at all. We don't know where
the album is going right now. All we know is it'll be something on an international scale. We're thinking big over this project.
"But Abhishek is busy. So it's up to him and Amitji (who does a track). So far, we've only been jamming together. If it happens the album will be a milestone," Vishal, the more vocal of the composing duo, told IANS.
Director Rohan Sippy, who made it big with "Bluffmaster", is going to produce this album.
"The fact that it is coming from a filmmaker is quite unique. If it happens it'll be bigger than any film soundtrack. We're looking at international collaboration with artistes, musicians," informed Vishal.
Vishal-Shekhar is glad their music is connecting with the masses.
"We're composing songs for Siddharth Anand's next. It's a much more grown-up film than 'Salaam Namaste'. But still it's a super-cool flick. It's a rise-and-fall story. But I hope our music only rises. We are also doing
Anubhav Sinha's 'Cash'."
The composers have some special plans for Milan Luthria's love story.
"For Milan Luthria's next film we'll write the sort of love ballads which Shekhar and I write in our free time. At the end of the day Indian melodies will always be in demand. But we have a whole lot of new musicians doing music in Hindi films.
"The audience has also evolved substantially. Whatever we compose has to be dynamic. Composers today need a vision. There're more Internet downloads and ring tones than tapes."
Said Vishal commenting upon their big 2005 triumphs namely "Dus" and "Bluffmaster": "Shekhar and I love writing melodious songs. But right from 'Dus bahaane' to 'Right here right now', all the songs that were happening last year were up tempo."
Vishal never thought these tracks would become
such a craze.
"I'd attribute about 90 percent of the success of 'Dus bahaane' and 'Right here right now' to Abhishek. A lot of a song's impact depends on who performs it and how. I think Abhishek, who's into hip-hop, found a comfort zone in his dancing with 'Dus bahaane'."
Vishal is not much enthused by his colleague Himesh Reshammiya's music.
"He's a big star today. But he's a different school, more traditionally filmy, than us. I love his track 'Soniye' by K.K. Even Himesh has a substantial range as a singer and fantastic composing acumen. But I'm not impressed by his production values.
"I admire the volume of work Himesh is doing. I can't see Shekhar and myself doing more than one film at a time. It gets too hectic. It's great to have a music company T-Series back Himesh to the hilt."
And re-mixes?
"Never! Nor would we do just one song to provide a potential hit in a film. We like doing what we're comfortable with. We're working with friends. Sidharth Anand, Sujoy Ghosh (hopefully we'll all return from 'Home Delivery'), Anubhav Sinha...," said Vishal.
Will the "Dus" sequel have a song called "Gyarah bahaane"? "I don't know. I hope not," laughed Vishal.
Why 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' is a big hit in UK 29th Sept 2006 14.01 IST By Agencies
According to a report in 'The Times', Bollywood films like Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna , are grossing more money in Britain than UK-made productions
The report adds that many movies are being shot in UK and also in US to make them more relevant to South Asians living there. According to the report, 69 Bollywood films have been released in the UK and 14 productions financed by Indian film industry are being shot in London. In the five weeks since its UK release, 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' has grossed more than 2 million pounds - the same as 'Vera Drake,' the British film showered with Bafta awards and Oscar nominations, since it appeared 14 months ago. Indian producers now regard overseas sales as more lucrative than their home market, the report said.
The three largest multiplex chains - Odeon, Vue Cinemas and Cineworld -routinely screen Hindi films that appear in the UK's top 15 films lists. In contrast, hardly any Bollywood films were released in Britain ten years ago. Lucy Jones of Nielsen EDI, which measures box office performance in 14 countries, told the daily: "It's a recent development. Bollywood is not just a specialist cinema any more."
Until recently, India was regarded as the prime market, with overseas takings as the icing on the cake. Now that position has been reversed. Productions are increasingly being filmed in Britain and America to make them more relevant to South Asians who live there.
Pranab Kapadia, UK head of Adlabs Films, said: "More and more Indian producers are looking at the potential of this market. They are gearing the productions to suit the South Asian international palette - films which people living here can relate to."
Abhishek Bachchan is alarmed by reports claiming he asked a London immigration officer whether he should "drop his pants" during their customary investigation.
"I was aghast when I saw myself quoted using those cheap words, all over the Internet. Firstly, I don't speak like that. Secondly, I'd never be rude
to officials who are merely doing their job. It's not their intention to harass you. Considering what the world situation is, we must all co-operate and be patient," he says from Paris where he's shooting for Jhoom Barabar Jhoom now.
Abhishek plans to return to Mumbai for the day on his father's birthday, October 11. Although there are no celebrations on the cards this year, Abhishek makes it a point to be with his dad every year on his birthday.
He's looking forward to it more this year as he is suffering homesickness. As the unit has completed the London schedule of the shoot, they have moved on to Paris.
"I miss home, especially since my grandmother is in the hospital. Also the release of the Umrao Jaan's music soundtrack was on Saturday, a big moment for all of us who have been working on this project. Unfortunately, it wasn't possible for the music company to hold over the release until my return. Nor was it practical for me to fly back to Mumbai for a day. So I just had to miss the occasion," he says.
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Bipasha has already created waves by posing in a bikini in the Dhoom 2 theatrical promo. And now, we have learnt that Bips has also sung a song in the film. According to sources, Bipasha has sung some lines in the track called ‘My Name Is Ali’ in the film. From the lyrics, we can assume that the song would be focused on Uday Chopra since his character s name is Ali. Who knows, this might just be another
‘Dilbara’ like number where Uday is hitting on Bips. The music of the film is done by Pritam who was also responsible for the foot tapping music of Dhoom. And when we checked with Pritam on this, as expected, he refused to comment. The suspense will be unveiled on October 19 when the music of the film is being released. 
Paris trips are fun, but sometimes more than you expect. 
If there is an acid test for Anu Malik this season or in fact this decade, it has to be with 'Umrao Jaan'. The man has seen enough highs and lows in his decades old career so far but the music of 'Umrao Jaan' is something that would be scrutinized by one and all. And why not? After all the tracks from Khayyam's 'Umrao Jaan' are still being appreciated by the connoisseurs of classical Indian music and it is certainly no mean feat to match. Hence when J.P. Dutta picks up the baton to narrate the story while roping in Anu Malik and Javed Akhtar saab, one can't help but look at each and every track with keen
interest. Also with Aishwarya Rai being the central protagonist along with Abhishek Bachchan, Shabana Azmi and Suneil Shetty, one can't help but have mammoth expectations from the film and its music.
Anu Malik shows his prowess as a composer with good classical base in the way he creates the arrangements for the opening of 'Behka Diya Humein'. First (and the only) duet in the album, it is poetry all the way as Sonu Nigam pairs up with Alka Yagnik. Though the song's beginning is a trifle close to Jaidev composed and Suresh Wadekar sung 'Seene Mein Jalan' from the film 'Gaman' (which was incidentally made by Muzaffar Ali himself), it restricts itself
to being an inspiration rather than a copy. The setting is changed completely for this love song that is dreamy all the way, courtesy the sound of the song that has a slight echo effect imparted to the vocals of the lead singers. Sheer poetry coupled with some honest music sans any unwanted ingredients, the album so far is for those who wish to be traversed to a different world altogether.
'Pooch Rahe Hai' follows next which is about a woman who has found love but is apprehensive about letting it be known to
others. A story is being told by means of this 'mujra' that should be making an appearance at an important point of the film. Conveying a lot through lyrics in which Alka Yagnik immerses herself completely while her rendition, 'Pooch Rahe Hai' has the usual arrangements as per the setting of the music so far and helps take the story forward.
'Umrao Jaan's in undoubtedly a superlative effort by Anu Malik as he goes all out in creating a score when the world was waiting to lynch upon him if he made the slightest of errors. But to his credit, his effort shows as he immerses himself completely in the era of 'Umrao Jaan' and creates an ambience that takes one to a world of the past. In today's music scenario when a couple of albums release every week and at least one big soundtrack arrives every month, one can't claim if 'Umrao Jaan' may have enough retention to go down as a classic. But if one has to analyze some of the best albums of the year 2006, 'Umrao Jaan' would indeed go find a place in the top bracket.
Abhishek is currently flying high. In more ways than one. Having completed a chunk of the shooting of Shaad Ali's Jhoom Baraabar Jhoom in London he has now moved with the unit to Paris where they shall be parked for some time now.
On a less joyous note, Abhishek is somewhat alarmed by a report all over the internet that he asked the immigration in England if he should "drop his pants" during their customary investigation . 
Abhishek Bachchan has been signed as the brand ambassador for the radio channel BIG 92.7 FM, an Adlabs Films venture. He believes that his association with BIG 92.7 FM will give him a chance to connect directly with the Indian audiences. 
Bollywood'a composer duo Vishal-Shekhar, who gave Abhishek Bachchan a cool-dude attitude with the songs "Dus bahaane" and "Right here right now", are doing a whole album of songs with the actor and claim that it will be a super success.
The composers have some special plans for Milan Luthria's love story.
