Dharmesh brushed up acting skills in bathroom!

Reality show contestant and dancer Dharmesh, who makes his acting debut with "ABCD: AnyBody Can Dance", says he had a habit of imitating a lot of actors in his bathroom and that is something that helped him face the camera.

"I wasn't exactly interested in acting. I liked to do something unique, like following Paresh Rawal or copying Salman (Khan) bhai's unique dance style and how he moves, his dialogue delivery. So, I have copied all these things and I practiced all this in the bathroom, " Dharmesh said in an interview.

"I did all this in fun and it has helped me. My real life is quite similar to my character's in the film. My bathroom practice helped me a lot while acting, " he added.

Talking about his character in the film, Dharmesh said, "I play a Muslim character Dildaar, who has a tapori group in the slum, he does nothing, except stealing, eve-teasing and all."

"One thing that our group can do is dance but that too the Ganpati-style dance, no sync. So, this is my character who has a 'D' gang, " he added.

Directed by Remo D'Souza, "ABCD: Any Body Can Dance" also features Kay Kay Menon, Prabhudheva and Ganesh Acharya. The film hits theatres Feb 8.

Rahul Bose happy with short, key role in 'Midnight's Children'

Rahul Bose, who will be seen in Deepa Mehta's "Midnight's Children, " says even though he has a small but significant role in the film, it cannot be called a landmark role in his career.

"If I had a big role in this film, then it would have been an important moment for my career but I have a small role in this film. But it's a very significant and beautiful role, " the 45-year-old said here Tuesday at the press conference of the film.

"Moreover, this is my 20th year in the industry, so the time has gone that any role will make me identifiable or will break identity, " he added.

Rahul recalls how long time back he was author Salman Rushdie's first choice for a mini series that was to be made on the book, which makes his association with the film all the more special.

"Yes, it's true. Fifteen years ago, when the mini series of 'Midnight's Children' was being made in five parts, out of 142 actors Salman (Rushdie) chose me. So, to be part of the close circle of the film, I consider it to be a great pleasure, " Rahul said.

The film features an ensemble cast of Satya Bhabha, Shriya Saran, Siddharth, Anupam Kher, Shabana Azmi, Seema Biswas, Shahana Goswami, Soha Ali Khan and Darsheel Safary and is slated to release this Friday.

Amitabh Bachchan, Sonu, Shaan sing live for peace

Bollywood Megastar Amitabh Bachchan and other artists like Sonu Nigam and Shaan sang live for peace at the 'Global sounds of peace' organised by musician Aadesh Srivastava.

"I want to thank the public for attending the concert. Normally the concerts related to films have a different ambience and music. I didn't know that they like such music too. It was a little classical, " Bachchan said after the concert.

Talking about performing live, Bachchan said that it was tough.

"Performing live is always tough. It involves a lot of hard work. Here there is live music and audience which makes it tough, " he added.

A white carpet instead of a red one was organised as a symbol of peace.

"It was a good idea to have a white carpet as a symbol of peace, " Bachchan said.

The other celebrities who walked the white carpet included Ayushmann Khurrana, Udit Narayan, Kunal Kapoor, Kavita Seth, R. Balki and Ashutosh Gowarikar, among others.

Bachchan sung "Raag Basanti" and his performance was clearly awaited by all the celebrities.

"I am waiting for Amitabh Bachchan's performance. But all the other artists were also very good, " Kavita Seth told the media.

Actor Ayushmann also seemed excited over Big B's performance.

"Amit ji is like a living legend. He is such a great performer and even if he just stands on the stage, it is a big thing, " he said.

Bachchan was accompanied by Aadesh Srivastava during his performance which was clearly mesmerising with the stage being decorated with huge white swans. White peace balloons floated in the sky through out the performance.

Singer Udit Narayan was happy with the message of peace being spread to the masses through such concerts.

"It feels very nice to have such programmes for peace. Amitabh Bachchan, Aadesh Srivastava and so many other artists have come together for this cause. I am so happy that the message of love and peace is being spread, " he said.

Kunal Kapoor said that it was tough to get so many musicians together for such a good cause.

"It is tough to get so many musicians together. The cause of peace is good and the world is in need of it, " he said.

Nothing objectionable in 'Viswaroopam': Rahul Bose

Actor Rahul Bose said Wednesday that he does not think there is anything objectionable in Kamal Haasan film "Viswaroopam" for it to be banned.

"I don't think there was anything objectionable in 'Viswaroopam' for it to be banned, " Bose said.

On a day an emotional Haasan said he would leave India if the ban in Tamil Nadu on his film was not lifted, Bose suggested the government watch every controversial film before taking any decision on them.

"The government must watch each controversial film. If they find it unconstitutional, they must prosecute it and if found otherwise, they must protect it, " he told mediapersons on the sidelines of the Kolkata Literary Meet.

The lavishly mounted film, which stars Haasan and is written, produced and directed by him, was banned by the Tamil Nadu government after some Muslim groups complained that it portrayed their community in poor light.

The Rs.95 crore multi-lingual espionage thriller was to release Jan 25 in Tamil Nadu but saw the light of the day only in a few places in Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

It was banned in these places too after the first show. As the protests became vocal, it was also banned in Malaysia and Sri Lanka after a two-day run. However, it is being screened in the other southern states.

Wanting dhoti-clad PM may have caused 'Vishwaroopam' ban

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagham (DMK) president M. Karunanidhi Wednesday wondered whether the Tamil Nadu government's ban on Kamal Haasan's movie "Vishwaroopam" was because the actor wanted a dhoti-clad Tamilian as prime minister.

In a letter to party cadres, Karunanidhi said some sections of people are of the view that the actor earned the ire of the state government after he said that a dhoti-clad Tamilian, referring to Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram, should become the country's prime minister.

Karunanidhi also said that there is a view among a section of people that a television channel close to the ruling party in the state had offered to buy the rights of "Vishwaroopam", which the actor declined as the price quoted was much lower than what the film was sold for to another channel.

The Tamil Nadu government had earlier banned the release of "Vishwaroopam" for 15 days as it feared the movie could spark a law and order problem because it contained references to the Muslim community that were allegedly derogatory.

Many Muslim organisations had opposed the movie, claiming that it presented the community in poor light.

Earlier in the day, Kamal Haasan told reporters that he was unable to understand why "Vishwaroopam" was banned. The film had cost Rs.95 crore to produce.

Kamal said he would scout for a truly secular Indian state; otherwise, he would settle in some other country that was secular.

"I don't understand what is happening. If I try to understand, I will turn into a politician. I don't want to, " the 58-year-old actor said.

I'm very disturbed over Rushdie controversy

Blaming "vested interests" for the latest controversy around Booker Prize-winning writer Salman Rushdie, who cancelled his visit to Kolkata Wednesday, actor Rahul Bose said the happenings have left him "disturbed".

The 65-year-old author of the controversial "The Satanic Verses" was slated to visit Kolkata to promote Deepa Mehta's film "Midnight's Children", based on his homonymous novel, but called off the trip at the last moment.

Hours before Rushdie's scheduled arrival, Muslim groups under the banner of Milli Ittehad Parishad demonstrated Wednesday morning near the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport against his visit, and only relented after being told by the authorities that he was not coming.

Asked whether he was disappointed at the controversy, Bose said on the sidelines of the Kolkata Literary Meet: "I don't think that the whole of Kolkata is up in arms...I don't know who the vested interests are but there are vested interests."

"I am disturbed that it is part of the stitching together of what has been happening for two decades, " said Bose, who plays General Zulfiqar - "an 11 minute role" - in the movie.

Queried why Rushdie abandoned the trip to Kolkata, Bose said: "There are several theories doing rounds about why Salman did not come. I am not sure which one to believe."

Rushdie has for long been embroiled in controversy over his book "The Satanic Verses", which has been perceived as anti-Islamic. He received death threats after it was published in 1988, while a 'fatwa' was also issued against him by the Iranian Islamic clergy.

Sad to see Kamal Haasan planning to quit India: Siddharth

Southern actor Siddharth says it is shocking to hear that Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan is planning to leave India because of "unfair persecution" on his film "Vishwaroopam".

Haasan says that if the ban on his controversial film "Vishwaroopam" is not lifted, he might have to look for a "secular state" and that can be out of the country.

"'Vishwaroopam' screenings cancelled before starting and even stopped mid-show all over Tamil Nadu What a sad day. What a horrible week. Taliban Tamil Nadu, " Siddharth tweeted.

"Heartbreaking to see the greatest Tamil actor of all time talking about leaving Tamil Nadu, about bankruptcy and about unfair persecution, " he added.

The Madras High Court Tuesday ruled in favour of "Vishwaroopam" and lifted the ban by the state government. It, however, said the administrative step was to be taken by the government.

The mega-budget film was due to release Jan 25, but the Tamil Nadu government banned the film following fears of law and order situation. The ban was further extended to Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.

Power theft squad visits Kamal Haasan's lawyer's house

The state anti-power theft squad visited actor Kamal Haasan's lawyer's house Wednesday hours after a court reimposed a ban on the film- maker's movie in Tamil Nadu.

Officials of Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Ltd. (TANGEDCO) from the anti-power theft wing barged into lawyer P.S. Raman's house to check power theft.

"The visit by TANGEDCO officials and my appearing for Kamal Haasan in the 'Vishwaroopam' ban case is not linked. Perhaps it was bad timing of the squad to inspect my residence on the pretext of checking power theft, " Raman told.

A single-judge bench of the Madras High Court had Tuesday lifted the ban on Haasan's movie "Vishwaroopam". A two-judge bench of the high court Wednesday reimposed the ban on the movie.

Raman argued against the ban on the movie in the high court for Haasan.

He said the power theft issue was resolved after senior officials of TANGEDCO intervened and apologised.

"Their contention was that I am paying domestic tariff while using my residence as an office. I told them that for the past 50 years my office has been in my house, " Raman, former advocate general of Tamil Nadu, said.

Raman's father, late V.P. Raman, was also a former advocate general of Tamil Nadu.

According to the manager at Raman's office, around 10 TANGEDCO officials barged into the house.

"They checked the power meter and the wiring. We told them to send their notice in writing and that they could not just barge into a senior advocate's house, " the manager told.

He said the officials were at Raman's residence for around 45 minutes.

Tamil Nadu theatre fire-bombed over Vishwaroopam screening

Miscreants Wednesday attacked with petrol bombs a Tamil Nadu theatre that planned to screen actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan's film "Vishwaroopam", police said

"Some miscreants attacked a theatre. However, nobody was injured, " a police official told over phone from Ramanathapuram district, where the incident took place. Ramanathapuram is about 310 km from here.

A few movie theatres in the state decided to screen the Rs.95 crore movie on the basis of Madras High Court's late Tuesday night order lifting a state government-imposed ban on the movie, police said.

Theatre owners were asked to present a copy of the court order before screening the movie, forcing them to cancel the show, police said.

Miscreants also burnt tyres outside a theatre here and tore down a movie banner.

In Coimbatore, Kamal Haasan's fans hit the streets demanding that the movie be screened.

The espionage thriller, which stars Kamal Haasan, and is written, produced and directed by him, was banned by the state government after some Muslim groups complained that the film portrayed their community in bad light.

Ekta Kapoor to perform yagna at Maha Kumbh

Filmmaker Ekta Kapoor along with the cast of "Ek Thi Daayan" is set to perform a yagna at the Maha Kumbh in Allahabad.

H.H. Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, founder of Ganga Action Parivar and president of Parmarth Niketan Ashram, has invited Ekta and her "Ek Thi Daayan" team for the grand yagna Feb 9 at the Maha Kumbh.

She said she will be attending to get rid of all the negative energy.

Emraan Hashmi and Huma Qureshi will reach Allahabad as early as Feb 8, and engage in a series of innovative activities to promote the keenly awaited supernatural thriller. The team will reside in specially constructed tents on the banks of the Ganga, amid tight security. "Ek Thi Daayan", co-produced by Vishal Bhardwaj and directed by Kannan Iyer, releases worldwide April 18.

No idea about 'Munna Bhai' series: Arshad Warsi

Actor Arshad Warsi, who played the role of Circuit in popular "Munna Bhai" series, says he has no idea about the status of the third instalment of the movie series.

"I don't know about that (status of the film). Raju (Hirani) is the best person to answer. I think Vidhu Vinod Chopra wants to make it but I don't know. When will they do I really have no idea about 'Munna Bhai' series. I have been very busy with my projects so I really don't know. Raju and Vinod are the right person to answer, " Arshad told.

"I know that people are waiting for me and Sanjay Dutt to get back together. But I am okay. I don't keep pre-conceived notions about anything in my life. If we go ahead then good and not then it's fine, life goes on, " he added.

Meanwhile, the actor is also excited to play dacoit in his next film "Chambal Safari".

"I am quite excited about 'Chambal Safari'. it will go on floors by the end of this year because it needs that kind of temperature in Chambal, " he said.

Kamal threatens to quit India, 'Vishwaroopam' ban stays

An emotional Kamal Hassan Wednesday threatened to quit India if the ban in Tamil Nadu on his controversial film "Vishwaroopam" wasn't lifted but the Madras High Court reimposed the ban. The actor was likely to challenge the fresh ban in the Supreme Court, sources said.

As controversy swirled over the Rs.95 crore multilingual espionage thriller, the acclaimed actor said he had agreed to make cuts in the movie that some Muslim groups found objectionable.

Sources close to Kamal said the filmstar was likely to approach the Supreme Court Thursday.

Kamal, 58 and one of southern cinema's most successful stars, said if the ban on his Tamil-Telugu film was not lifted, he might have to look out for a "secular state" abroad.

Saying he was fed up with the opposition to the movie, Kamal said here: "If there is no secular state in India, I would go overseas. I think Tamil Nadu wants me out.

"M.F. Husain had to do it and now Haasan will have to do it. It's fine. What would change is my passport. I would still be an Indian.

"I have pledged all my property for the film. I have lost my house because of delay in (its) release, " he said.

He said he had invested his lifetime's savings, including all his assets, on the film that has also been dubbed in Hindi and which has been released in the US and Canada.

Soon afterwards, he met Muslim leaders here and announced he was ready to make cuts said to be maligning India's largest religious minority.

"There is no (more) difference between me and my Muslim brothers. It is our duty to take care of them. There are four scenes that are being pointed out and I am willing to remove these scenes from the movie, " he said.

The lavishly mounted film, which stars Kamal and is written, produced and directed by him, was banned by the Tamil Nadu government after some Muslim groups complained that it portrayed the community in poor light.

The film was to release Jan 25 in Tamil Nadu but saw the light of the day only in a few places in Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

It was banned in these places too after the first show. As the protests became vocal, it was also banned in Malaysia and Sri Lanka after two days of run. But the movie is now running in the other southern states.

Kamal said he was still trying to understand why "some members with strong political backing" were against his film.

"The film is running successfully in other states and the feedback from the audience has also been positive."

On Wednesday, the Madras High Court overturned Tuesday's single bench ruling revoking the ban on "Vishwaroopam", which revolves around the story of an Al Qaeda plot in the US and an Indian couple.

The high court bench chaired by Justice Dharma Rao asked the filmmaker and the Tamil Nadu government to respond by Monday.

The film fraternity are backing Kamal and his film, cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

CBFC chairperson Leela Samson said Wednesday that the ban was "an infringement on freedom of expression". "This is hounding of an artist, an icon of Tamil Nadu, " Samson told CNN-IBN.

Said Actor Siddharth: "What a sad day. What a horrible week. Taliban Tamil Nadu."

Director Mahesh Bhatt said Kamal was a victim of state terrorism.

As Kamal's critics and fans took to the streets, sporadic violence was reported in Tamil Nadu.

Miscreants attacked with petrol bombs a theatre planning to screen "Vishwaroopam" in Ramanathapuram, 310 km from here. Tyres were set on fire outside a Chennai theatre.

In Chennai, DMK chief M. Karunanidhi wondered whether the ban was linked to Kamal's comment obliquely supporting Finance Minister P. Chidambaram as India's prime minister.

In New Delhi, Congress spokesman P.C. Chacko said Kamal's threat to leave India "was an unfortunate statement".

Kamal Haasan requests fans to stay calm

Actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan Wednesday urged his fans to remain calm after the Madras High Court reimposed a ban on his film "Vishwaroopam".

"Please don't turn the difference in opinions into any untoward incidents. By taking the matter into your hands, things may worsen, " Haasan told his fans.

"I'm fighting legally on your behalf, " he added.

Fans thronged Haasan's residence here since the verdict by a two-member bench chaired by Justice Dharma Rao reimposed the high court's earlier ban on "Vishwaroopam", the Rs.95 crore espionage thriller which was written, produced and directed by Haasan.

Earlier in the day, Haasan, 58, threatened to leave the country and search for a "secular state" to live in from where he can continue making films.

"If there is no secular state in India, I would go overseas. I think Tamil Nadu wants me out, " Haasan said.

He added: "M.F. Husain had to do it (leave India) and now Haasan will have to do it."

"My Muslim brothers have pointed out a few scenes in the film which I have agreed to delete. Objectionable scenes such as some words from the Koran in the film will be deleted, " he said.

The film was to release Jan 25 in Tamil Nadu but was screened only in a few theatres in Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, where it was banned after the first show.

As protests gained momentum, it was also banned in Malaysia and Sri Lanka after a two-day run.

As Haasan's critics and fans took to the streets, sporadic violence was reported in Tamil Nadu. Miscreants attacked some theatres in the state with petrol bombs and vandalized properties.

In Chennai, DMK chief M. Karunanidhi wondered whether the ban was linked to Haasan's comment indirectly supporting Finance Minister P. Chidambaram as India's prime minister.

Sunny Deol Display School-Boyish Charm

Actor Sunny Deol, famous for his hard-hitting dialogues like the 'dhaai kilo ka haath', has always been considered one of the most macho actors of the film industry.

Despite the fact that Sunny has tried his hand at comedy with the laugh riot 'Yamla Pagla Deewana', the 'Betaab' actor has been more known for punching out bad guys and uprooting water pumps.

However, with his upcoming film 'I Love New Year', Sunny will probably show off his boyish side, if the posters are anything to go by.

In one of the posters, Sunny is shown wearing a pair of boxer shorts with animated figures on it. Apart from this, the actor sports a mop of disheveled hair and an innocent smile, making him look like a charming young boy.

Directed by Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru and produced by Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar, 'I Love New Year' also stars Kangana Ranaut and is a story about two strangers who meet on New Year's Eve due to an unusual sequence of events. Film releases on 26th April 2013.

Angry Bollywood reacts to Vishwaroop Ban

By Subhash K Jha

Khushboo: `The judgement of the court reaffirms our faith in democracy though it has come in a little too late. If this can happen to a man who has put in 50 years and every penny he has earned into films, and someone who eats, drinks, breathes and lives for the love of cinema I wonder what lies in store for others in Indian cinema. `

R Balki: `The Tamil Nadu government has to banned. What if all the people, Muslims or Hindus, who have no issues with the film want a ban on the government? Will the courts hear that? We are scared of law and order issues because of the government. `

Kalpana Lajmi: `Once the certificate of release is issued by the censor board and after the film is released, no private or judicial institution or government, be it the state or centre, should exercize its diktat and influence to ban the film, whatsoever be its content. A ban is also tantamount to curbing the freedom of expression. `

Hansal Mehta: `All a big farce. After the hullabaloo dies down Kamal Haasan would be left counting his losses. Sad that an icon is treated so shabbily in our country. `


Shabana Azmi: `The Supreme Court ruled in the case of Prakash Jha's Aarakshan that once cleared by the Censor Board Of Film Certification no state can impose a ban on a film. It is the government's business to give value to its own certification and ensure the film is shown. Those who protest have the right to do so. But if they do so violently then the law of the land must apply to them. If people are offended by Vishwaroop let them not watch the film. How can they take away the right of others who want to watch it? The Tamil Nadu government is being unfair to Vishwaroop and to the minorities it claims to protect. For starters, have they even watched the film? India's audience is not a monolith. Some may be moved. Some may be offended, or claim to be offended for political gains. So be it. Nobody is forcing the film down anyone's throat. The space for freedom of expression is shrinking and we must act now to stem the tide. `

Ketan Mehta: `This is complete nonsense. The government is succumbing to cultural terrorism in spite of the censorboard clearing the film. Isn't freedom of expression a fundemantal right? Democracy is meaningless without it. Please stop this recurring blackmail of creativity and the arts. `

Rensil d'Silva: `I think it's time we got some rules firmly in place. If the censorboard passes a film for screening the government shouldn't bow down to vested interests. Mobs cannot decide what films we should make. `

Priyadarshan: `Nobody has the right to ban the freedom of expression. `


Siddharth (Tamil star): `Vishwaroopam must be edited beyond recognition if it wants to be screened in Tamil Nadu. This is the death knell for democracy, secularism and cinema. I see more conflict between Hindus and Muslims in Tamil Nadu because of the bizarre behaviour of the government than the film. The ban on Vishwaroopam is regressive. It's a back-to-the-dark-ages blow by the Tamil Nadu government. How do we make a change? My deepest condolences to Kamal Haasan. His service to our cinema and to shaping many creative destinies needed gratitude, not betrayal. Sad. In cinema as in other fields, your punishment is directly proportionate to how much you give. Godspeed, Kamal Sir. `

Subhash Kapoor: `I think this is an attack on freedom of expression of a filmmaker. It is not only undemocratic but also sets a dangerous precedent. The state should not succumb to such pressure tactics by politically motivated groups. In my view, the film industry is like a gharib ka joru (a poor man's wife) jisska jab man karta hai sheel bhang karne aa jata hai. `

Umesh Shukla: `Freedom of expression is a must for every filmmaker. `

Anusha Rizvi (director Peepli Live): `The ban is ridiculous and needs to be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Our cultural space is increasingly being taken over by the right-wing discourse. All of us need to be on guard against this invasion of freedom and we must protest against it. I stand by Mr Kamal Haasan and am deeply alarmed at the decision taken by the Tamil Nadu government.

Mani Shankar: `It's a gross travesty of creative freedom. I can't understand how any state government can usurp power from the CBFC which has cleared Vishwaroopam. Is one censor board not enough? Do filmmakers have to please every government and non- government body to release a film? Are we really a progressive democracy? How do we grow and evolve as society if creative freedom is so curbed? `


Shyam Benegal: `What is happening to Kamal's film is very peculiar. It reeks of some kind of a vendetta. It doesn't make any sense. The fact is the hero of the film plays a patriotic Muslim doing good things for the country. They've simply gone against their own rules. Once the censorboard clears the film and if any section of the audience has any doubts or fears, the matter must be referred back to the censor board. You (the state) cannot do things entirely on your own. If you are doing things on your own then why have the censorboard in the first place? A censor certificate is valid in the entire country, and should not be disregarded in one state. A censor certificate has semi-judicial status. `

I am not going to Supreme Court: Kamal Haasan

Actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan on Thursday said he is not moving to the Supreme Court to get his controversial film Vishwaroopam released in Tamil Nadu after the Madras High Court on Wednesday stayed the release of the film that ran into trouble over its alleged content that has been branded as anti-Muslim community.

"I am not approaching the Supreme Court," said Haasan, adding that talks are on for a settlement with the protesting Muslim groups.

Haasan would promote the film's Hindi version in Mumbai on Thursday.

Though after an emotional press conference Wednesday where he announced to leave India if required to live in a secular country, Kamal Haasan had agreed to edit out some scenes and words in the film even as the Madras High Court verdict came as a blow to him.

The film will not release in Tamil Nadu till Feb 6 after the stay order since the bench set aside the interim order by a single bench judge of the same court a day ago, apparently paving its release.

The Madras High Court on late Tuesday had lifted the ban on Vishwaroopam in Tamil Nadu. The verdict was passed by Justice K Venkataraman after a day-long hearing on Tuesday.

But the Tamil Nadu government appealed against the verdict in a double bench, defending the ban in order to maintain "communal harmony".

According to reports, the judge, who saw the film over the weekend earlier, had asked Hassan to explore the possibility of an amicable settlement with the government.

Kamal Haasan earlier on Wednesday said he would leave Tamil Nadu and India if required to stay in a secular place to just remain an artist who is godless.

"I want to stay in a secular state. I will find another state other than Tamil Nadu from Kashmir to Kerala to stay. If I do not find I will stay in another country which is secular," he said in an emotional press conference here, adding that he has mortgaged his entire property to the financier of the film and would lose it all.

"I want to be a secular man. I want to stay where these things do not touch me," he said. "M F Hussain-saab [late painter] had to go out of India for the same reason. I am just an artist. I am godless. I am fed up," he said.

"I shall wait for the afternoon judgement [a verdict in his favour has been challenged again in a higher bench of Madras High Court] but after this I think I will have to seek for a secular state to stay in from Kashmir to Kerala excluding Tamil Nadu. I will look for a place which would house an artist, I will pay for it. I know my art is still left and I can earn."

He said he will hopefully find another country which is secular to stay if he cannot find a place in India. "Nothing will change the fact that I am a Tamil and an Indian. Only my passport will change," he said.

"I wonder how one movie could knock this mighty nation's unity," he said.

He said nothing was clear to him why these things were happening to him and said the fact is that he was yet to get interim relief or order and film shows were stopped again.

"I believe that along with my Muslim friends I have been an instrument in a political game. I do not know who is playing it and I am not even hazarding a guess. The fact remains that my history has proven that I have been never leaning to the left or right," he said.

India's Censor Board chief Leela Samson said Kamal Haasan is being hounded since the film has been cleared by the board and only then it was set for release.

Information and broadcasting minister Manish Tiwari meanwhile has said on Thursday that the Cinematograph Act needed to be revisited.

"Time Cinematograph Act revisited to ensure implementational integrity certification decisions Otherwise each state would be it's own censor (sic)," Tewari tweeted.

Remo D'Souza takes a bow

Choreographer- director Remo D'Souza is super excited. Other than his film, it's also his plan to perform at the Maha Kumbh Mela at Allahabad that's keeping him on his toes

`I am a firm believer in God. Performing at the Maha Kumbh will be a different high altogether as it is one of the biggest congregations in the world.

Plus, the mood, colour and exoticism attached to it make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone. I really want to make it happen, ` says Remo, who is known for being a religious person (He sports tattoos of Lord Buddha and Ganesha on his arm). In a quick interview with CS, Remo talks about coping up with fame and connecting with God:

The name and fame
Earlier, people around me didn't appreciate my dancing skills and abilities. So, now when people recognise me or copy my steps, it feels great. I always wanted a life where everything revolved around films. And now I have realised both my dancing and film ambitions.

Losing my privacy is a small price to pay for such highs. Fame or celebrity status is a great thing if handled well. Yes, I do miss being unnoticed at times, especially when I crave to have tea and vada pav at a roadside stall. I can't do that now!


Director diaries
I believe that any technician can become a director. After working as a choreographer for so many years, I am familiar with the technicalities. The only risk lies in the fact that if your film flops, your image as a choreographer suffers as well.

I have learnt a lot from Anubhav Sinha and Hansal Mehta whom I consider as my godfathers. Both of them gave me a lot of independence, which helped boost my confidence. Even in my latest project I faced a lot of hiccups but finally my patience paid off.

As a choreographer, I have learnt the value of patience. And I was taught to be humble since childhood. These two values have also helped me immensely.

Dance trance
There was this time when I was directing my first Bengali film called Lal Pahare'r Katha and there was a sequence where I needed a dancer to dance with fire on his body. I didn't want to risk anyone's life. So I tried it myself. I sported a fire suit and practised. The entire watching crowed was amazed at my passion for dance and I believe it was God alone who gave me the courage to do it.

Jackky Bhagnani plays football in Worli Village

Jackky Bhagnani took part in football games while shooting in Worli Village

Jackky Bhagnani loves to play sports to keep fit. While shooting at Worli Village over a span of 40 days, Jackky took up playing football with locals to be in top form.

A source says, `The actor gathered some locals and played soccer. And since the streets there were too narrow for traffic, his game was never disturbed.` Due to the narrow lanes, the actor initially had to be driven on a two-wheeler to reach the location. But apparently he enjoyed the ride so much that he started driving himself after that.

The source adds, `He even taught them some sexy dance moves.` And in return the local residents brought homemade food on the sets. But Jackky apparently could not dig in as he was on a strict diet.

Sajid Khan falls ill after shooting for 18 hours!

Despite suffering from flu, Sajid Khan had decided not to interrupt his hectic shoot schedule

However, after shooting for 18 hours straight, he felt so sick that a doctor had to be summoned on the sets.

Apparently after filming his Ajay Devgn starrer and editing portions in the night, Sajid reached the sets of a celebrity dance reality show that he judges. A source says, `His condition deteriorated after he sat in the air conditioned studio for long hours.

Sajid ended up calling his physician on the sets and received three injections to stabilise him. The source adds, `After finishing with the editing, Sajid had given his word to arrive on the sets by 10.30 am. We had to force him to eat and now he is resting.`

Did you know Big B can fly planes!

Not many know that Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who is known for his acting, can also fly airplanes.

During the grand finale of "India's Prime Icon", the inimitable actor disclosed his hidden talent.

Not only that, the 70-year-old revealed that at one point in his life he had wished to join the Air Force.

He also spoke about the heights he hoped to reach, which today seem as a fairly low goal when compared to the status he has achieved.

"Yes I did take up flying. And if there ever is an emergency and you are in the aircraft, I may be able to land that plane, " he said.

However, showing off his humorous side, the legendary actor quickly added, "provided it's a glider".

Amitabh was chosen as the winner of "India's Prime Icon". The episode of the show airs Friday on Big CBS Prime.

Success is all about time management: Hrithik

While success for most people means fame and money, actor Hrithik Roshan says for him it is all about how well one manages time and fit in everything one likes into daily routine.

"My entire journey has made me realise success in a very different perspective. According to me, success is not about the fame, it's not about the money, it's not about the glory.

Success is how you can manage your time, it's the art of time management, " the 39- year-old said here Tuesday at the launch of watch brand Rado's signature collection.

"If you can make time for all the things you want to do in your life, you are a successful person. Instead of being tied down by time, if you are controlling your time, you are successful. If you really are, tell me how, because I am still learning, " he added.

Asked who is the most punctual person he knows, Hrithik said, "My dad has been the most hard core punctual person in life. He says that there is no concept of being on time. You are either before time or you are late. So that is something I am still trying to incorporate in my life."

Hrithik is currently shooting for "Krrish 3", a sequel to his 2006-hit "Krrish" being directed by his father Rakesh Roshan.

Priyanka jets off to Toronto

Bollywood's desi girl Priyanka Chopra has flown off to Toronto to attend Anokhi magazine's 10th anniversary event in Toronto, Feb 2.

"En route to Toronto to attend the Anokhi 10th anniversary event on Feb 2. Have some fun things planned... See you guys there!!" Priyanka tweeted Wednesday.

The event, which takes place in association with Johnnie Walker at Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Toronto, is being hosted in honor of reaching an incredible milestone: 10 years of publishing Anokhi magazine, with the launch of the 10th anniversary collector's edition releasing in January 2013.

Launched in 2002, Anokhi Media is a multi-platform brand which creates, distributes and promotes lifestyle and entertainment content about the cosmopolitan, global South Asian, through a quarterly magazine, weekly newsletter, websites, social media & live events.

First Look: Meet Mr and Mrs. Suri

Director Mohit Suri wed actress Udita Goswami at a temple in Juhu on Tuesday

Several B-Town folk were present for the ceremony...

Kamal Haasan victim of state terrorism: Mahesh Bhatt

"He is a victim of state terrorism. Are we living in a state where there is no law and order? This is a question, which not only a filmmaker should be asking, but the people of India must be asking, " he added.

Bhatt calls Kamal a pride of the country.

"Kamal is a national asset. He has made a film by putting his everything at stake. He showed that film to the censor board members and after taking a legitimate censor certificate the film goes to the cinema halls. And after spending so much on the PR, and then state stops it, " Bhatt said.

"In a country where you have the right for freedom of expression, there having a censor certificate and even high court, if he had to beg here and there, then what is the point, " he added.

Bhatt has urged the film fraternity to come forward and support Kamal.

"This is the time when everyone should raise their voice and be on his side. It's a very dark moment in our history. Each and every person should fight for his (Kamal Haasan) justice."

Commenting on what is happening with him and superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Bhatt feels film industry is an easy target.


"Film industry is a soft target. Recently, Shah Rukh Khan also found himself in trouble when his statement was twisted and presented for political benefits. What is happening in our country?" he said.

The mega-budget film was due to release Jan 25, but the Tamil Nadu government banned the film following fears of law and order situation. The ban was further extended to Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.

The Madras High Court Tuesday ruled in favour of "Vishwaroopam" and the ban was revoked. It, however, said the administrative step was to be taken by the government.

In another ruling on Wednesday, a two-judge bench of the high court re-imposed the ban on the film.

I wanted to give my video an Indian flavour: Priyanka

"In My City" might be Priyanka Chopra's first international single, but the actress made it a point to retain the Indianness by adding some desi dance moves in the video.

"I wanted to give it an Indian flavour in terms of dancing. I wanted the world to see what Bollywood is all about, " Priyanka said at the unveiling of the video held here Tuesday.

"I wanted that the identity of the song should be Indian. I am very India-proud. When people see my video, they must feel that Bollywood is like this, " she added.

The dance moves in the video have been choreographed by international pop sensation Lady Gaga's choreographer.

"Entertainment is everywhere in the world. A lot of technicians come from abroad and work in our films. Art has one identity and this is globalisation, " said Priyanka.

The actress revealed that the first person to see her music video was her father.

"I showed the video to my dad first. He is not well and has been in the hospital for a while now. He really liked it specially the 'namaste' which I do in the song, " she said.


The actress says she is still trying to understand her style of music.

"I am still trying to understand my style. I think it is a fusion and amalgamation, which will be enjoyed in West and India, " she said.

Asked whether she would like to sing for her own films, Priyanka said: "This is just the beginning. I am waiting for the entire album to come out first, " she said.

How Sangeeta Bijlani still looks gorgeous at 50

Though she's crossed 50, actor Sangeeta Bijlani is still as gorgeous as in her heydays

The lady who is known for her impeccable fashion sense in party circles, in a short chat with CS, discloses her style mantras:

Style check
First of all, style is all about comfort. And it's more about attitude than about the actual clothes. If you have the right amount of confidence you can carry off anything. I firmly believe that one shouldn't go over the top with fashion trends. Everything doesn't suit everybody. One should understand one's comfort quotient and experiment accordingly.

White mischief
White has always been my favourite colour. It stands for purity and innocence. Whenever I wear white I feel very serene. It is not only in clothes, but I also love white furnishings.


In my clothes
There is a lot of variety in my wardrobe. In Indian wear, I love sarees. I feel it's the sexiest garment ever. The drape of a sari is so sensuous and supple. I also like waistcoats that can be teamed with an Indian dhoti/skirt or with a pair of jeans too. Otherwise, I keep my dressing very casual.

Shoe sweet
I had a huge fetish for shoes. In my younger days, I used to collect them but that has stopped now. Even now my shoe collection is larger than the number of handbags or jewellery I own.

I love...
I think Sonam Kapoor is the best-dressed actress in Bollywood. She's elegant, experimental and knowledgeable about fashion. Every time you see her, she's got a different look.

Are SRK and Kamal Haasan really playing a Cheap Publicity stunt?

By: Faisal Saif

In a panel discussion moderated by CNN IBN editor Rajdeep Sardesai, Maqsood Qasmi of the Imam Council commented that the ruckus around Kamal Hassan's film Vishwaroopam was a gimmick created by the filmmaker himself `It is a cheap publicity stunt by Kamal Hassan, ` said Maqsood Qasmi.

Qasmi further raised an interesting question "When the Censor Board had already passed the film, Why Kamal Haasan called in for 40 Imam Council board people to view it? This amount of Publicity Mr.Haasan would never-ever had received by even spending a huge amount of money."

If i go back and do a little research, I find Kamal Haasan had a row of Flops before Vishwaroopam from Hey Ram (2000) to the last Unnaipol Oruvan (Tamil Remake of 'A Wednesday') (2010), None of his films created a stir at the Box office. When Vishwaroopam was in the making, His PR Strategy (Handled by Mr.Nikil Murugan) released a News which said the famous Cannes Film Festival bending it's rule to screen Vishwaroopam.

The news to me sounded very baseless, As The famous Film Festival might never do this to Al Pacino's film. I personally contacted the Cannes Film Festival authorities by email, No response came from the Cannes Film Festivals.

Kamal Haasan was also very adamant about releasing the film on DTH Platform. The distributors raised a strong objection and discussions were made. The film was passed by the Indian Censor Board and at the time of Distributors becoming upset by Kamal's decision, This controversy about Muslim Group's protesting erupts like a Volcano.

Co-Incidentally, King Khan Shah Rukh Khan's article about "Muslim's in India" becomes the heat of the town exactly before 10 days of the film Vishwaroopam's release.

The entire Bollywood press and media starts talking about it. Shah Rukh Khan had earlier raised his voice on a similar issue exactly 15 to 20 days prior to the release of his super-hit My Name Is Khan. Shah Rukh Khan had worked with Kamal Haasan in the controversial Hey Ram way back in 2000.

When SRK raised the 'Akon' party during the release of his Sci-Fi debacle 'RaOne', Kamal Haasan specially flies to Mumbai to attend the event (Pictures available on the Internet). To cut the explaination short, King Khan and Kamal Haasan are good friends.

Trade Analyst Atul Mohan says "The two (Shah Rukh Khan and Kamal Haasan) maybe best of friends but the situation they are in right now are different. I hope all settles down soon with Love and Peace, As all's well that End's well."

Let's all agree with Mr.Mohan's quotes and keep hoping for the best to happen for everyone as on one side it is King Khan Shah Rukh Khan whom we love, And on the other side it's India's best talent called Kamal Haasan.

Neha Dhupia to shoot new comedy film

Actress Neha Dhupia, who has been a part of comedy films like "Singh is Kinng" and "De Dana Dan", and has been associated with a new comedy-based show on TV, says she will start shooting a humourous movie after the show.

Neha is part of Colors' new reality show "Nautanki: The Comedy Theatre".



"The most fun thing is that as soon as 'Nautanki' finishes, I will do a comedy film. But I will tell you about it later," the actress said here.

She says she enjoys comedy as a genre, but admits it is tough.

"I enjoy comedy as a genre and in that, satire is very nice. But comedy is comedy and I have understood that it is tough to do. What is even tougher is to get the audience to appreciate what we are going to do," she said.

Neha says a good humour sense is also one of the most important thing she looks out for in her prospective life partner.

"There is nothing I like more than a good sense of humour. A good sense of humour is the first thing on my list for a perfect man," she said.

Neha also said that television as a medium has really advanced and it is almost as powerful as films today.

"TV is not what is used to be. It is at par or even bigger than films in many aspects. When I got the offer for 'Nautanki', I couldn't refuse it," she said.

For now, on the big screen, Neha will also be seen in Karan Johar's "Unglee" and has also just completed shooting for a Punjabi film.

"I am shooting for Rensil D'Silva's film called 'Unglee', which Karan (Johar) is producing. Plus I have finished doing my first Punjabi film, which is releasing. It is called 'Rangeelay'," she said.

Tia Bajpai to be part of a trilingual film down south

Tia Bajpai who was known as Twinkle Bajpai on the small screen was a finalist on a music reality show in 2005

Vikram Bhatt christened her as Tia and cast her in his horror flick Haunted. She was later seen in forgettable flicks like Lanka and 1920-Evil Returns. The actress will next be seen in Rahat Kazmi's film as well as a trilingual in the South.

Preity Zinta turns 38

Bollywood actress-producer-entrepreneur-social activist Preity Zinta turned 38 years of age on Thursday.

The bubbly actress from Himachal Pradesh was first noticed in the Liril soap commercial.

After graduating with a degree in criminal psychology, Preity made her acting debut in the film 'Dil Se..' in 1998 followed by a lead role in 'Soldier' the same year.

The performances earned her a Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut, and she was also acclaimed for her role as a teenage single mother in 'Kya Kehna' (2000).

She started playing a diverse range of characters for her film roles, and her depiction of screen persona contributed to a change in the concept of a Hindi film heroine.

Preity delivered a number of successful films including 'Videsh - Heaven On Earth', 'The Last Lear', 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna', 'Veer Zaara', 'Lakshya', 'Kal Ho Naa Ho', 'Koi Mil Gaya', 'Dil Chahta Hai', and 'Salaam Namaste'.

She received a Filmfare Award for Best Actress in 2003 for her performance in the film 'Kal Ho Naa Ho'.


Her first international film role was in the Canadian film 'Heaven on Earth', for which she was awarded the Silver Hugo Award for Best Actress at the 2008 Chicago International Film Festival.

Besides films, Preity made her small screen debut in 2011 with 'Guinness World Records-Ab India Todega'.

She is the founder of the production company PZNZ Media and, along with ex-boyfriend Ness Wadia, a co-owner of the Indian Premier League cricket team Kings XI Punjab.

The actress is not only a brave businessman and actress, but she never refrains from public speaking, which led her testify against the Indian mafia during the 2003 Bharat Shah case, for which she was awarded the Godfrey Phillips National Bravery Award.

Preity will be seen next in her upcoming film 'Ishkq In Paris'.

What? Prabhu Deva reveals his sons do not like to dance

Prabhu Deva is known to be one of the best dancers from the Indian film industry

Ironically, his two sons Aditya (9) and Rishi (4) are not into dancing at all.

A source says, `People say Prabhu is a dancer who has no bones. He has been dancing since he was in class seventh. It's funny that his kids don't like to dance or don't know who Shah Rukh Khan or Akshay Kumar is.`

Prabhu says, `My kids don't even have the knowledge of whom I'm working with. They don't know SRK, Akshay or even Salman. They are too young to understand anything about films.`

Cultural terrorism: Idea of India threatened

Shah Rukh Khan one day and Kamal Haasan the next. Is it mere coincidence or a sign of an increasingly knee-jerk, reactionary India that two of its most loved film icons are forced to go public to painstakingly reassert their secular identity and insist, in case the message is lost, that they are proud Indians?

Given the trajectory of events and the escalating intolerance on a range of issues -- Ashis Nandy and Salman Rushdie are more cases in point -- this is the time to worry. And the question above, merely rhetorical.

Shah Rukh and Kamal Haasan are not mere actors but extremely successful, talented artists with millions of rupees and many jobs riding on them and their films. If one rules over the powerful Hindi film industry, the other is a veteran of south Indian cinema.

Yet, they are under attack, victims of what some term cultural terrorism and even state terrorism. Shah Rukh cornered for his views on what it is to be a Muslim in India and Kamal Haasan for making a film that allegedly has scenes that some Muslim groups find objectionable and that the Tamil Nadu government seeks to ban.

On Tuesday evening, an upset Shah Rukh - in the thick of controversy for an article that sparked a ridiculous war of words between New Delhi and Islamabad after Pakistan's Interior Minister Rehman Malik said the Indian government should offer him security - said the "unwarranted twist" was "nonsense".


Nowhere in the article, a first person account for Outlook Turning Points magazine, does he state or imply directly or indirectly that he feels unsafe, troubled or disturbed in India, the star said, reading out from a statement.

"It does not even vaguely say that I am ungrateful for the love that I have received in a career spanning 20 years. On the contrary the article only says that in spite of bigoted thoughts of some of the people that surround us, I am untouched by scepticism because of the love I have received by my countrymen and women," said the actor, who has been in the eye of so many storms.

And Wednesday, ironically Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary and the day to recall the spirit of tolerance, came Kamal Haasan's emotional outburst that if the verdict on his Rs.95 crore film "Vishwaroopam" was not favourable, he would have to consider moving overseas to a "secular state abroad".

"M.F. Husain had to do it, now Haasan will do it," said the angry filmmaker, saying that he lost all his property, even his house.

The reference to the late artist, who died in London in 2011 after he was literally chased away from his homeland by rightwing Hindus who took offence at his paintings on goddesses and his depiction of Bharat 'mata', was so apt.


It was the same righteous wrath that links the Muslim groups who objected to "Vishwaroopam", the same calculated move for maximum publicity that saw Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed invite Shah Rukh to Pakistan. A rainbow coalition of fringe, fundamentalist views - all intolerant, regardless of which religion they originate from.

But here is also the difference between Shah Rukh and Kamal Haasan. While the 58-year-old Chennai-based veteran could afford to take the offensive and say he would move away from India, the 47-year-old Khan from Bollywood could just not do so.

Can you imagine what would happen had Shah Rukh spoken of getting out of India instead of stressing: "We, in India, are extremely safe and happy. We have an amazing democratic, free and secular way of life."

Lyricist Javed Akhtar said rightly about Kamal Haasan's outburst: "Don't listen to the words, listen to the sentiments."

Wonder if anybody would 'listen' to Shah Rukh's sentiments had he said the same thing?

As Indian celebrities, even those in filmdom, come under scrutiny and the discourse gets more polarised, there are other victims. Social analyst Nandy had to be questioned by police in Jaipur for his comment during the Jaipur Literature Festival on corruption and caste. And Rushdie was in the country too, promoting "Midnight's Children" but was kept safely away from the Kolkata literary fest.


The right of thinkers to argue must be protected at all costs, an online petition said, defending Nandy.

By Wednesday evening, as the dust settled somewhat over the SRK brouhaha, Kamal Haasan had agreed to make cuts in his film but the Madras High Court had reimposed the stay.

As filmmakers know only too well, if you don't upset the fringe element of one religion or another, you hurt caste groups and other sub-sections, even barbers. It's a tricky tightrope walk. Remember how "Billu Barber" was finally released only as "Billu".

The attack on creative freedom as well as the debate on its limits is not new but it's getting worse.

And where does India go from here? To another SRK storm maybe, to more uncertainty for "Vishwaroopam", more tension for Ashis Nandy. And other casualties of a society where knee-jerk reactions are taking over from considered debates and calibrated decisions.

Amy Jackson celebrates her 22nd birthday on the sets

Amy Jackson turns 22 today. The British model-actress will have a working birthday in Jaipur where she is shooting for a Tamil film opposite South star Vikram

Her father Alan Jackson, however, is flying down from Liverpool to be with his daughter on her big day.

Says a unit source, `A song sequence is being shot with choreographers Bosco and Caesar. The film's music has been scored by A R Rahman and Amy had to undertake Indian classical dance lessons as preparation for the track's shoot.`


Adds the source, `The unit folk will have a small cake cutting celebration on the sets after which they will continue with the shoot.` As filmmaker Shankar has a penchant for shooting at well-known places all over the globe, Jaipur is on his list due to its fortress landscape.

Amy, who made her B-Town debut last year with Prateik in Ekk Deewana Tha (with whom she was also linked), has been concentrating on her South projects for the past few months. Late last year Shankar's film also had a two-month schedule in China. The source further adds, `After the Tamil film shoot wraps up, she will be back in Mumbai to pursue her B-Town aspirations.`

Sushant loves Ankita's 'understanding' nature, will marry her

Actor Sushant Singh Rajput, who is dating actress Ankita Lokhande since a while, says he will tie the knot with her this year, and admits he loves her for her understanding nature.

He is busy promoting his debut Bollywood film "Kai Po Che!" these days, but Ankita is making no bones about not getting to spend enough time with him.

"Ankita wants my time and even I want to be with her, but I have this responsibility, and she understands that. I really appreciate that she is making the effort to understand. That's the reason I love her more with each passing day," Sushant told.


Post the film's release Feb 22, marriage will be on Sushant's mind.

"Marriage is certainly on cards. It will be very soon. I don't think there is any right time to get married so why not right now. Yes,I will get married to Ankita this year," he said.

The two featured together on popular TV show "Pavitra Rishta".

'Nothing political about 'Vishwaroopam' ban'

The Tamil Nadu government's ban on Kamal Haasan's mega movie "Vishwaroopam" is not politically motivated, but for the fear of law and order problems that may ensue, said the actor-filmmaker's brother and partner in the film production company Raj Kamal International here.

"As far as we know, the ban is on the grounds to maintain law and order. We do not think the ban is political," Chandra Haasan told reporters here Thursday.

On Wednesday, DMK president M. Karunanidhi wondered whether the Tamil Nadu government's ban on "Vishwaroopam" was because the actor wanted a dhoti-clad Tamilian as the prime minister.

In a letter to party cadres, Karunanidhi said some sections of people are of the view that the actor earned the ire of the state government after he said at a book release function that a dhoti-clad Tamilian, referring to union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram, should become the country's prime minister.

The Tamil Nadu government had earlier banned the release of "Vishwaroopam" for 15 days as it feared the movie could spark a law and order problem because it contained references to the Muslim community that were allegedly derogatory.

Many Muslim organisations had opposed the movie, claiming that it presented the community in poor light.

Kamal Haasan is now in Mumbai in connection with the release of "Vishwaroop", the film's Hindi version, which will hit the screens Friday.

The actor is expected back here Saturday or if need be may return Friday, Chandra Haasan remarked.

Watch: Priyanka Chopra's Official 'In My City' Song Video

By: Faisal Saif

Presenting the First Ever Official Look for Priyanka Chopra's chart-buster hit single "In My City". The song also features Will-I-Am and Priyanka will be off to the Grammy's this year, and will be meeting up with Lady Gaga while there. The two had previously met in New York sometime ago, and there were rumors floating around that they'd be collaborating for a track.

"My dad was the first person to like the video and especially the 'Namaste' part in the video done by me. I wanted to keep the Indian Flavor alive in my Video and show the world that Bollywood and India is Big" said the very excited Priyanka Chopra.

When asked which would be the best place in her city (Mumbai) where PC would like to take any of her Tourist friend, Priyanka quickly replied "I would like to take my friends to the 'Filmcity' and all the other Studio's where i shoot."

Going by the Look of the Video, Let me assure you Priyanka Chopra really rocks In My City

Jayalalithaa defends Vishwaroopam ban

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Thursday broke her silence and said she halted the release of Kamal Haasan's Vishwaroopam in the state fearing violence based on intelligence reports and not for any grudge against the actor-filmmaker.

"We rely on intelligence inputs and it says there is likely to be trouble and violence in certain place due to such and such places. So it is for us to take preventive steps," she said.

"Our primary objective was to maintain only law and order. We have no motive to curb freedom of speech," she said, asking Kamal Haasan to reach an amicable solution with the Muslim groups.

"I have no personal grudge against anyone," she said, adding that if at all she had an adversary it is her political adversary Karunanidhi of DMK whose family made films she could have targetted instead of going for Kamal Haasan.

"If the leaders of the Muslim organizations and Kamal Haasan can sit together and work out amicably and if agrees to delete some objectional portion the decks will be cleared for release and we will do everything to facilitate it," said Jayalalithaa addressing media here.

Jaya said the movie was to release in 524 theatres and it would be impossible to offer protection, ruling out any question in curbing freedom of speech.

"Maintaining law and order does not mean allowing violence and then stepping in to quell the violence and restore peace. It is not sensible, it is not practical," she said.

"Sensible way is to prevent violence from occurring. So it is the duty of the government to take preventive action and it is only in that spirit we approached the issue," she said.

"I have been accused of personal interest," she said adding that the finger was pointed at Jaya TV but she was not in any way linked to the channel officially or financially.

She said she had no personal enmity with Kamal Haasan or had ever taken offence to the latter saying that a dhoti clad person would be the Prime Minister of India.

She said she was experienced enough to know that Kamal Haasan does not select the Prime Minister of the country but by votes of over 100 crore people.

He has taken a conscious decision to make such a big budget film and if he had mortgaged his house to do so he has done at his own risk, said Jaya.

She said Kamal Haasan had earlier refused to make any changes in the movie and forced the state government to issue an order to stop the movie for a period of 15 days.

She said she would sue Karunanidhi for the absurd charges made against her.

Jaya said the protest is not just by fringe Muslim groups but it was a pan India movement to stop the movie. She said the movie was banned even in Singapore.

Kamal Haasan on Thursday said he is not moving to the Supreme Court to get his controversial film Vishwaroopam released in Tamil Nadu after the Madras High Court on Wednesday stayed the release of the film that ran into trouble over its alleged content that has been branded as anti-Muslim community.

"I am not approaching the Supreme Court," said Haasan, adding that talks are on for a settlement with the protesting Muslim groups.

Haasan would promote the film's Hindi version in Mumbai on Thursday.

Though after an emotional press conference Wednesday where he announced to leave India if required to live in a secular country, Kamal Haasan had agreed to edit out some scenes and words in the film even as the Madras High Court verdict came as a blow to him.

The film will not release in Tamil Nadu till Feb 6 after the stay order since the bench set aside the interim order by a single bench judge of the same court a day ago, apparently paving its release.

The Madras High Court on late Tuesday had lifted the ban on Vishwaroopam in Tamil Nadu. The verdict was passed by Justice K Venkataraman after a day-long hearing on Tuesday.

But the Tamil Nadu government appealed against the verdict in a double bench, defending the ban in order to maintain "communal harmony".

According to reports, the judge, who saw the film over the weekend earlier, had asked Hassan to explore the possibility of an amicable settlement with the government.


Kamal Haasan earlier on Wednesday said he would leave Tamil Nadu and India if required to stay in a secular place to just remain an artist who is godless.

"I want to stay in a secular state. I will find another state other than Tamil Nadu from Kashmir to Kerala to stay. If I do not find I will stay in another country which is secular," he said in an emotional press conference here, adding that he has mortgaged his entire property to the financier of the film and would lose it all.

"I want to be a secular man. I want to stay where these things do not touch me," he said. "M F Hussain-saab [late painter] had to go out of India for the same reason. I am just an artist. I am godless. I am fed up," he said.

India's Censor Board chief Leela Samson said Kamal Haasan is being hounded since the film has been cleared by the board and only then it was set for release.

Information and broadcasting minister Manish Tiwari meanwhile has said on Thursday that the Cinematograph Act needed to be revisited, but Jayalalithaa said Tiwari does not know about the laws that exist.

"Time Cinematograph Act revisited to ensure implementational integrity certification decisions Otherwise each state would be it's own censor (sic)," Tewari tweeted.

Reacting to this, a report quoted censor board chairperson Leela Samson as saying: "If the government comes up with this, it is the best news I have heard in a long time."