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I am worried. If this film supports reservations or if it is against them. It may be a safe middle ground as well leaving the judgment to the audience. Reservations is an explosive subject. It still raises passions. Will it also deal with reservations being misused by creamy layer and reservations sought by upper strata like jats of Haryana?
Many students and their leaders like ABVP and other politically motivated leaders must be eagerly waiting for this movie. Kudos to Bachchan for starring in this sort of a very topical movie.
Bachchans second image from the top has caught my eye….. He seems to be in form ….wish saif (Dalit here) doesn’t
Try to eat away to get his role enhanced– he has learnt this from some others around ….
The name ‘Amitabh Bachchan’ does more for India abroad than other known symbols of India’s soft power such as the Taj Mahal, curry or the Kama Sutra, according to Rachel Dwyer, an expert on Indian cinema and culture.
Delivering the Annual Distinguished Ford Lecture 2011, Dwyer, a professor based at the London-based School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), said that Bachchan was a “great communicator of moral sentiment” through films that had won fans far beyond India.
Bachchan, who was on a visit here on Tuesday, was the respondent to Dwyer’s lecture titled ‘Amitabh Bachchan: Emotion and the Star in Hindi Film’, delivered to a nearly 300-strong audience mainly comprising students and people of Indian origin in Oxford.
The lecture was sponsored by Alfred Ford and family, who support the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS). Alfred Ford is a great-grandson of Henry Ford, the car manufacturer and Sharmila Ford, Ford’s wife, is a member of the OCHS Board of Governors.
Dwyer noted that Bachchan was uncomfortable with the word ‘Bollywood’, but used the word several times in her lecture that dwelt on the importance of emotion and Bachchan’s contribution to Indian cinema in the genres of romance, comedy, and the angry young man.
Bachchan is known to prefer the use of ‘Indian film industry’ than ‘Bollywood’, since the latter resonates with Hollywood. He believes that Indian films have their unique identity that need not be clubbed together with Hollywood.
It was for the first time that Bachchan’s famous dialogues and songs such as ‘Kabhi kabhie mere dil mein khayal ata hai’ and ‘Kajara re’ were played in the historic venue of the lecture, the Examination Schools building constructed in 1882, which is the venue of final year exams of the university students.
Dwyer used clips from films to analyse Bachchan’s career, his film-names ‘Vijay’ and ‘Amit’, and said that emotion was a key feature of not only Indian films but of Indian-ness itself.
Responding to the lecture, Bachchan said that since the 1950s and 1960s when Indian films were considered infra dig by parents, it had come a long way today.
“Every time a nation does well economically, many aspects such as clothing, music, food, culture suddenly become important. The west saw Indian cinema with cynicism, but now the very factors that were criticised earlier are seen as unique. There is a vast patronage to Indian cinema abroad,” said Bachchan.
Just noticed the sedond pic from the top again —-Bachchan is looking in ominous form here….
Hope to see less and less ofsaif/deepika in this one…
And this ONE pic has reassured me that Bachchan still has something residual in his tank…..given the right vehicle…
Just wanna see a bachchan SR film with Mani and Santoshi now…..IRRESPECTIVE OF THE DAMN BOX OFFICE……………..
Well Santoshi had launched power but something or the other keeps derailing this. With Rathnam I personally find it hard to believe there will be a film. I wish there were. Would be a dream come true but I doubt it. Not least because I think there is an ‘inner’ logic to it. Rathnam would have liked the Bachchan of the 70s, perhaps not after this. I have a formula — when Rathnam wants to do ‘Bachchan’ he goes with Abhishek because here he gets the actor he might have had Bachchan been younger and therefore less ‘carved in stone’ as a star. Which is of course not to suggest that Abhishek and his father are comparable talents. Just that the mould at certain points is very similar. But also because even a younger Bachchan was a bit more larger than life than Abhishek is even on his best day and my hunch is Rathnam prefers the latter. Only because he can in an odd way explore more this way. Even in Tamil cinema he’s not been very comfortable with titans. And here Thalapathy offers a clue. Because you have Rajni at his peak and Rathnam ties to tone him down quite a bit. I’d actually say that Mohanlal and even Mammootty are more Rathnam’s ‘kind’ of titanic figures than either Rajni or Kamal. Because they have the right balance between the iconic and performance. It is very hard to find even great stars ‘within’ whom these gifts are balanced just right. Bachchan of course comes to mind but in him the combination is just too overwhelming once one gets beyond the 70s. Or even in that period there is always the danger of the parallel text. With Kamal you don’t get the true megastar’s signature though you of course get the great actor. With Rajni you get the other end of the spectrum (or almost). Mammootty and Lal though have the right balance without being completely overwhelming. Specially with Lal you have an actor who can be made a ‘child’ again which is to say ‘new’ (though a certain qualification is necessary here inasmuch as Lal has also gone masala for two decades or so now and is very larger than life in many of those films but this too has hurt him in some ways..). Of course over time no star can seem that fresh and Mammootty/Lal are no exceptions either. But Lal for example was very spontaneous in Iruvar (mean this in the precise sense of being unencumbered by one’s history). With Bachchan after the 70s it is perhaps always too late because the star signature is just too extreme. And I don’t mean this negatively. Just a comment on the kind of star he was. Which is why even over the last decade you have to create really ‘abnormal’ moments for him for the star signature to be kept in check. Black and Paa are two examples here. Main Azaad Hoon is the counter-example of ‘failure’ or why Bachchan couldn’t simply be that ordinary. So getting back to Abhishek here you have the ‘Bachchan’ sign ‘in the making’ as it were. and the fascinating thing about it is that because of different eras and of course Abhishek’s own choices he will always be ‘in the making’ in this context. In other words he does not live in an era where he will keep getting Yuva or Guru followups (as has already been the case) and so on (in fact he always has to play in a sense against his natural strengths, at least in terms of the physicality.. in other words would one want Bachchan to do Deewar or Dostana? It’s not about having the talent to do both.. Bachchan’s comedies were also larger than life with Desai.. in the same vein would one want Bachchan to work out and do stunts?!). So for Rathnam he will always be on the cusp or represent the Bachchan of Zanjeer or even Deewar but no later than this.
“Even in Tamil cinema he’s not been very comfortable with titans. And here Thalapathy offers a clue. Because you have Rajni at his peak and Rathnam ties to tone him down quite a bit. I’d actually say that Mohanlal and even Mammootty are more Rathnam’s ‘kind’ of titanic figures than either Rajni or Kamal. Because they have the right balance between the iconic and performance. ”
I have been looking for an explanation to y mani hasnt worked with the SR bachchan and keeps working with the jr bachchan.
With all due respects to abhishrek, there is NO comparison to the Amitabh..
Think guys like mani have a control freak element and are too mild to handle potential complications on the set.
All said and done—Wanna see A Senior Bachchan starrer in a larger than life role directed by Mani Ratnam with Music by AR Rahman—period…….
Sometimes one single pic or moment is enuf.
The pic (second from the top) uniquely encapsulates the iconicity/ poise and larger than life ( yet cultured) persona of Amitabh….
One of the best recent stills of amitabh Bachchan
For me less is more—sometimes one pic or one moment is more than a decade of work………..
I’d definitely argue that for Mani, Lal is the ideal star-actor in every sense. Not only because he strikes this balance so well but because Lal’s natural approach to acting probably dovetails with Mani’s filmmaking (and script writing) style in a way that feels a lot more harmonious than might be the case with a Rajni or a Bachchan. It’s no surprise that Ratnam’s greatest film had this specific actor in the lead and I of course don’t mean to say that Lal alone is the reason Iruvar is what it is. Just that it is somehow poetic that he was cast here.
ONe can keep arguing from dawn to dusk about trivialities—–
I know who are the best indian actor, director and music director alive today ie bachchan sr, mani and ARR—want them to come together in a film—period…
ps— Have seen Mohan lal only in compamy and am convinced about his
superskill in acting , but as a star…not so sure……His “physicality” has some limitations there (to be polite)…
“Lal’s natural approach to acting probably dovetails with Mani’s fi”lmmaking (and script writing) style in a way that feels a lot more harmonious than might be the case with a Rajni or a Bachchan. “—Agree there.
Also Mani feels comfy working with people who he can “boss” or “make them run around” in a v simplistic sense—He cannot do this with Bahchchan sr!!
Somehow, unlike Aarkashan, this “Buddha” project is looking as a sort of “BAchchan parody” aiming to milk every reminaing ounce of his epic moments and landmark films,,,,
This will work financially due to the v low budget, but not sure if the product will be interesting if not handled deftly….
Dude, take it easy. I wasn’t “arguing” for Lal over Bachchan in a grand sense and I wasn’t even addressing your comment. Merely arguing in support of what Satyam said about Lal (and Mammootty) being the star-actors in India that are best “suited” for Ratnam.
As for your estimation of Lal in any sense…well, an under-educated opinion means very little to me!
GF—i agreed with your cumment on Lals affinity to Mani style more than bachchan–read my other comment….lol
Its just that Lal has obvious limitations due to physicality, language, appeal from being a big pan Indian MEGASTAR actor…
Alex, no Southern star can be a pan-Indian star. The limitations are of language and a gesturality that doesn’t translate completely. On the physicality I would disagree completely. Even in Company I think he is by far the film’s most impressive physical presence. Yes he definitely put on too much weight over time and no one would defend this but his singularity is nonetheless unaffected by it. And again there are some great masala moments of his where the ‘weight’ is very much part of the deal. The thing is that Southern cinema for the most part remains a ‘domain’ inaccessible to ‘Northerners’. Because they too are Indians a certain illusion of commonality is created but the film tradition is often radically different. As someone who started watching Mohanlal relatively late I must say I find him easily one of the 2-3 most arresting Indian stars. And I am not even getting into performance here. And again even in Company both his performance and his presence easily chew up the competition (not that Devgan and Vivek Oberoi could possibly offer competition!).
I’d say as a more general matter that cinema isn’t about ‘good looks’ in any traditional sense but about screen presence. Bachchan when he first arrived in the industry and for some years afterward for considered a bit shocking in terms of his physicality. Often the traditionally good-looking guys are not the greatest stars. But one has to be housed within a tradition to get this. And for this one really has to watch a lot of films.
Finally not sure what being pan-Indian means. Yes he can never be as influential as Bachchan. But it doesn’t mean anything beyond this. It’s like saying Bachchan is limited because he doesn’t work in Hollywood. Every two bit star from this industry is more well known globally than Bachchan! What does this mean?! As far as I’m concerned it’s about getting familiar with a tradition and then trying to work from within that frame as much as possible. So for example when I watch a Japanese star I have to try and figure him (or her) out within that tradition (hate to say it but Malayalam cinema might as well be Japanese cinema for most Hindi film viewers!). One cannot become an insider by any means but one can learn by exposing oneself to more rather than less. Much as if one comes across a fine novelist from Albania one doesn’t exactly ask how influential the author has been relative to a British one.
When did anyone argue that about Lal? He’s the farthest thing from a pan-Indian actor/star. It’s another matter that despite this he’s one of the nation’s very best star actors. Two entirely different points here.
He’s my favorite in Indian cinema, of course, but that certainly doesn’t mean he’s India’s favorite.
i am totally agreed that ratnam is more fascinated to big b of 70s and 80s, and in all three film with ab, there is hint of angry young man of 70s in all the characters of ab, even in guru, young man fighting against the system to become biggest tycoon of industry, so, all the characters he has given to ab could be essayed by ab sr of 70s and 80s, perhaps ratnam also thinks that now he can not work with bigb, even at the time of yuva, in his interview to mtv he admits that it is huge responsiblity to work with bigb, perhaps this is the reason besides ab’s talent, he is so fascinated with ab, but i wish that ratnam will work with ab for forth time, ab has great tuning with him, rohan sippy, rgv etc. i think those three directors have explored ab very well and brings the potential out of him, with shaad he has brought humorous side of ab in bnb, but he was pathetic in jbj, he could not take advantage of super success of guru, and excellent music by shankar, and terrific starcast, with ab and preity they can make very good pair on screen. jbj was diaster in terms of quality of movie.
Filmmaker Anil Sharma’s younger brother Kapil Sharma is all set to become a director and wants to make a film on the life of veteran actress Rekha. Interestingly, he wants Bipasha Basu, Sridevi or Rani Mukerji to play the role of the controversial actress.
Our source confirmed, “It will be a film on Rekha where the mysteries surrounding her will be revealed. Kapil has written the script and after working on Dunno Y… Na Jaane Kyon, he wants to make a film based on the industry.
Kapil is considering some top actresses for the role of Rekha and other vital characters that have come in Rekha’s life from Big B to Kiran Kumar to Vinod Mehra and even Jaya Bachchan.”
When contacted Kapil Sharma said, “Yes, I am making a film on a controversial actress who has been an ex number one in the industry. However, I am not comfortable talking about it now. All I can say is that the film is called Sitaare and has the backdrop of Bollywood.
The film has an ensemble cast and will have 7-8 major characters. I am still to finalise the lead actors.”
“It is a story that I wanted to tell. I have been an industry kid and I want to unveil the mystery behind the actress. It is the journey of the actress, which is so interesting and colourful. It is her iconic career, her relationships and the ups and downs in her life,” he further added.
Nice images and this is the movie I was talking about, not some collection of sabka baap bachchan nonsense.
Btw, I am very pleased Jha has realized the importance of stars and making movies on a larger canvas. Few of his brilliant work were lost on talented but unappealing actors who brought nothing new to the table except going through the motions of brooding and staring in the camera.
It was here I defended casting Rampal in Rajneeti and once the movie came out , he had the best reveiws and was the best thing in the movie alongwith Bajpai.
Rampal is a Delhi Univ graduate and that too from a Bihari political hotbed – Hindu College. I knew he would get the nuances of that character.
I hope there is not even a hint of helplessness to Amitabh’s character.
Just like we are prisoners of our births, iconic film stars are prisoners of their image and the public is just not ready to see an AB character that is not fighting and winning.
As for Rajni Kant, Mammootty, my knowledge is admittedly v primitive due to language ….
BUt have seen enuf of Lal (in one film) and kamal Hassan in few films, to know their worth..
Anyhow, this is an area (south indian films) where i raise my hands up in ignorance….lol
Kamal Hassan is incidentally my personal favorite from down south, not only as a star actor but also as a director (Hey Raam)….
But these are all ignorant musings….
Kamal is an excellent director, possibly one of the best working today if only he’d work more often. His skills in this sense I think outweigh his ability as an actor these days especially.
The DVD of his second film as director after Hey Ram, Virumaandi, is easily available and very much worth watching. I’d recommend it. And don’t know if you’ve seen Ratnam’s Tamil works but since he’s apparently your favorite director I’d suggest that you pick up Kannathil Muthamittal and of course Iruvar. All of these works are easily available with subtitles and entirely worth picking up if you feel inclined.
Thanx —will try those…
Incidentally “hey Raam” is one of the v rare films that I have seen more than thrice (once on the big screen)
Im still amazed, and even shocked at his grip, range, vision and sensitivity of direction—just one word—Brilliant!!
One standout scene( out of many)—
Kamal witnesses a man tied to an elephants foot and prbably trampled.
Days and may scenes later, he sees an elephant on the street–He instinctively pauses for a second to check the elephants feet—no words. no music….Enjoy this sort of subtlety!!
I dont think the Lals and the Rajnis and the mammootys can better THAT…lol
PS—the appeal of rajni kant remains a mystery lol
“even in Company both his performance and his presence easily chew up the competition (not that Devgan and Vivek Oberoi could possibly offer competition!)” —Agree bout lal in “company”.
even dev gun was v good in company—perhaps one of his alltime best //#
DOnt know of Lals rest of filmography to comment………………
Very impressive. The topmost 2 pictures are unbelievably striking, especially the second.
Waiting impatiently to see his look in BHTB.
It’s very satisfying to see ABsr in two such dissimilar roles. I hope the song sung by him will be as interesting, iconic, and popular as his ‘paan’ and ‘holi’ songs.
Lol haven’t lost on any sarcasm.
Usually like to stay mum on things I don’t know well– as in this case due to language ….
Anyhow after seeing mohanlal only in one film – company, don’t think I should be commenting too much bout him–lol
But all o can say is he appeared more than competent in company– Infact he had that understated nuanced subtlety that I usually like.
Ps he looks much” slimmer” in this new pic by satyam(if “slim” can be used in his context…..lol
Hope gf is not going orgasmic somewhere — lol-
chalo anyone has the balls to make the movie on this complex subject
will be interesting what route jha takes as in his earlier work he got the things in platter
gangajal ( real incidents) and rajneeti( the easy way of showing dynasty culture with mockery of democracy on lines of mahabharat and godfather) where still much simpler
this is a debatable topic ….. and will be interesting to see wheather he will play safe with climax or controvesial his own version
‘Aarakshan’ is better than ‘Raajneeti’, says Prakash Jha
Spicezee Bureau
Mumbai: One of a kind cinema auteur Prakash Jha claims that his next film ‘Aarakshan’ is better than his last outing ‘Raajneeti’. ‘Aarakshan’ approaches the issue of reservation and quota system in India. This venture of Jha stars biggies like Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and also Prateik Babbar.
Prakash Jha is confident about ‘Aarakshan’ and the master helmer has his own good reasons for placing the film in higher esteem than his last hit ‘Raajneeti’.
A close associate of Jha revealed to the media, “After the success of ‘Raajneeti’, Prakash Jha`s upcoming film ‘Aarakshan’ has generated big interest among the trade circles. Moreover, in Jha`s own estimation, ‘Aarakshan’ is a notch above ‘Raajneeti’ since he believes that it has a more focused storyline than his previous film.”
/2011/5/25/raaj180.jpgJha said that ‘Aarakshan’ is not the kind of flick which will dictate or preach any solutions to the issue of caste system. According to him, “This is just a way to let out the feelings that society has been suppressing for years. The pain is on all the sides. I have tried to understand the reality of it.”
‘Aarakshan’ recently courted controversy over Saif Ali Khan being casted as a dalit in the film. A certain dalit Suraksha Samiti has sent Jha a letter at his Patna office, claiming that Saif Ali Khan hails from the royal family and his playing a dalit is an insult to their community. The letter also threatens Jha of `serious repercussions` if he doesn`t explain why he has caste Saif for the role.
Saif becomes Prakash Jha’s new blue eyed boy after Ajay?
By Joginder Tuteja, June 2, 2011 – 12:00 IST
Saif Ali Khan, Prakash Jha Saif Ali Khan has managed to impress his Aarakshan director Prakash Jha immensely. So much so that the filmmaker can be heard singing praises about the man with whom he has worked for the first time.
‘What’s so special about this?’ One may exclaim, ‘After all every director is bound to appreciate his cast’. Well, what makes this appreciation special is the fact that this is the first time in a decade that Jha has directed a film that doesn’t feature his favourite actor Ajay Devgn. The fact that Saif replaced Ajay in the film post his fall-out with Jha after Raajneeti only makes the proceedings further interesting.
“It is a known fact that Jha and Devgn were an unbreakable team till Raajneeti happened. Their over one decade long association that started with Dil Kya Kare (1999) continued to reap fruits with Gangaajal (2003), Apaharan (2005) and Raajneeti (2010)”, a trade source comments, “It seemed like they would forever be working together but as there is nothing permanent in Bollywood, so was this association as well. Though none have gone on record to talk about the alleged split, it is widely believed that the tension erupted during Raajneeti owing to the length of Ajay’s role in the film.”
Though there were speculations making the rounds, momentary respite came in once Ajay was said to be working with Jha again in Aarakshan. However just when everything about the film was already set with the shoot about to begin, Ajay was said to have opted out of the film. Though it was being rumoured that Ajay took this decision as owing to his age he wasn’t comfortable playing a college student in some portions of the film, no official statement was made from either ends. Meanwhile Jha approached Saif as a quick replacement who was more than willing to oblige.
“Saif has excelled big time and has exceeded my expectations”, says Jha who also had another towering personality in the form of Amitabh Bachchan supporting him during every step of the film making, “He is playing a very simple character in the film. He plays someone who belongs to the backward class and studies hard in an endeavour to grow in life and reach the top of the ladder.”
To make Saif familiar with the film and it’s setting, Jha also held workshops. “We had sessions with the entire principal cast where we did rehearsals, read out lines and talked about the characters in general. Saif wasn’t the only one singled out.”
This is five years after his ‘Langda Tyagi’ act in Omkara that Saif Ali Khan is playing a rather serious character. With Jha known for extracting award winning performances from his actors, one now looks forward to whether Saif manages to repeat the feat as well, hence kick starting a new association with Jha which was once reserved only for Ajay.
The only pic of real interest to me is the Bachchan solo pic (5th from the top now) ..(wet face–looking down–no specs)
Rest of them are par but nothing special imo.
Think Bachchan needs to get rid of his glasses –that hide his most effective weapon (his eyes and gaze).
ALso as pointed out in the buddha blog, time has come for bachchan to get rid of his goatie—those who post on his blog etc–can plz suggest this to him ..
As for Saif—to me, he is super slick and is even brilliant in flicks like DCH, Salaam Namaste, Love aaj kal.
But just bcos Saif has ambitions to show his “versatility” and “range”, will not make me forcibly applaud his attempts in various “different” roles and attires (and that includes “langda tyagi” in Omkaara—Another situtation where people fell for the age old trick of confusing a good persona and role with a brilliant performance. But if someone has extreme views of his “greatness” in that role, I wont disapprove that either, since this depends on “viewer discretion and taste”….
PS1–Loved Saif in “Salaam Namaste” and liked the movie …..
PS2-The “posters” of Aakarshan above have quite insightful statements and statistics…
This one caught my eye–”the backward castes increased from 1257 in 1991 to 2207 in 2006—–hmmmm-another point……
Big B in case of split personality
By: Subhash K Jha Date: 2011-06-14 Place: Mumbai
Amitabh Bachchan’s flamboyant ‘Bbuddah’ is a cause of worry for Prakash Jha’s ‘Aarakshan’
Amitabh Bachchan’s two back-to-back releases Bbuddah – Hoga Terra Baap and Aarakshan are caught in a combat of sorts. The two films portray the mega-star in absolutely contrasting roles.
In BHTP, which is being produced by AB Corps, he plays a defiant anti-social rebel, who thinks he is still 22. While in Aarakshan, which is being directed by Prakash Jha, he plays a senior respectable professor!
Jha is now worried that his film, which deals with a serious social issue, would suffer if thrown against the flamboyant bachchanalia of his character in Bbuddah.
A friend of senior Bachchan says, “Jha does have a disadvantage.
Once the veteran actor is shown as a bad boy having all the fun in the world in the Puri Jagannath movie, the audiences would find it difficult to adapt to his ideologically motivated part in Aarakshan.
Jha’s team fears that BHTB might still be playing in theatres when their movie releases.”
Clash of interest
To avoid a clash of interest, the director has now suspended all the marketing and promotional events related to his movie.
Says a source, “Prakash has made up his mind to keep his movie completely away from the other.
He also turned down the suggestion to attach Aarakshan’s trailer to Bbuddah since he felt it would create a completely undesirable impression in the audiences’ minds.”
When contacted the director said, “We will cease all promotions of the film until after the release of Bbuddah. Both the movies feature Amitji in diametrically opposite roles. We don’t want any confusion or clash of interest.”
Gag order
Apparently, Jha has also requested Big B not to make any mention of his movie in any media event until Bbuddah is released.
However, the filmmaker shot down reports about his refusal to attach the trailor of his film to the other but revealed he has spoken to the makers of Double Dhamaal to attach the trailer of his movie.
Singing the blues
There’s also buzz that Prakash has cut down the proposal to have Big B sing for his flick. Retorts Jha, “Not at all! Amitji is certainly not singing in my film. This is not that kind of a film where his character can sing.”
Jun 10, 2011 – 08:00 AM
Deepika Padukone: “I don’t need a man to buy me a house’’
Deepika Padukone doesn’t deny her friendship with ex Ranbir Kapoor nor her fondness for alleged beau Siddhartha Mallya. Filmfare gets down to the heart of the matter. Excerpts
Deepika_Padukone_1What does Karan Johar mix in his coffee that you guys go berserk on his show? The joint interview with Sonam was fiery.
I don’t think people plan their interviews. I definitely don’t. It’s just about being spontaneous and going with the flow. No way have I regretted that. We had a great time on Karan’s show.
Okay, which co-star is great fun to work with?
In terms of fun, it’s Abhishek Bachchan. But I’ve got along the best with Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan.
So what is your equation with Ranbir Kapoor today?
What I’ve always maintained is that Ranbir and I are very good friends. Even today that would be the most important relationship for me.
Can two actresses ever be friends?
No, because at some level competition does prevail. But it doesn’t mean you can’t be cordial to each other.
Do men gossip?
Yes men gossip as much or even more. They just don’t show it.
Deepika_Padukone_2Working with first time filmmakers or established directors, what’s your priority today?
A mix of both. I’ve done quite a few films with new directors. Danish Aslam (Break Ke Baad), Vijay Lalwani (Karthik Calling Karthik) and I’ve also done films with Ashu (Ashutosh Gowariker, Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey. Even Farah Khan (Om Shanti Om) is established.
You have been taking a lot of interest in cricket. Have you shifted your interest from badminton to cricket?
I don’t think it’s a shift. Badminton games are not covered widely. So people don’t know when I attend them. Whereas cricket is a religion! It’s covered widely. There is a lot of glamour attached to it especially with the IPL. So I get noticed.
What is a bigger religion in India – films or cricket?
I’m an actor so I’d say films. Cinema is as entertaining as cricket.
What would you like to tell me about Siddhartha Mallya?
Well, I think he is at a stage in his life right now where he’s being spoken about rather than him speaking to people.
What else do you like about him?
His good looks, his caring nature and the fact that he has lost so much weight.
Rumour has it that he has bought you a house.
Honestly, I’ve been independent from the start of my career. I moved out of home at the age of 20. I started modelling when I was 18. I started my first film when I was 21. Today when I’ve worked a little harder I’ve bought myself a bigger home in Prabhadevi. It’s my dream home. I definitely don’t a needa man to get me any of this. Sid himself lives with his father (Dr Vijay Mallya) and hasn’t bought himself a house. Why would he buy me one?
Deepika_Padukone_3You’ve never admitted to your relationship with Siddharth. But recently when his team Royal Challengers Bangalore defeated Kolkata Knight Riders, you hugged and kissed him in public. Is that an acknowledgement of your special bond?
Well, we both are huge cricket fans. He is the owner of the team and I’m from Bangalore. When the team plays well, we’ll definitely celebrate and not look in the opposite direction.
How does Aarakshan take you several steps ahead?
Why only Aarakshan? Every film should be able to do that. It’s a misconception that in doing a glamorous role, talent is not required. And while it’s important to look great, what makes a film memorable are the performances. I know Saif Ali Khan and Prakashji (Jha) are happy with my performance. In fact, Prakashji said that he’d never felt the need to call any actress and tell her how impressed he was with her work. He did that with me, so he must be happy.
How does it feel when Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra are counted amongst the top actresses and you aren’t mentioned in the same league?
They’ve been here for much longer. Kareena has definitely been around for 10 years, Katrina has been around for six to eight years and Priyanka’s given the profession eight to 10 years. I definitely don’t consider myself in the same league as them. I’m not going anywhere. I don’t plan to hang my boots or get married soon.
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
At the peak of my career.
Do you see yourself among the top?
Yeah hopefully!
How do you reconcile to the fact that in Rana you are acting with Rajnikanth who’s twice your age?
I’m very lucky. I didn’t think it would ever happen. I thought working with Amitji would be possible because we belong to the same industry but not Rajniknath. I’m playing a warrior princess opposite Rajni sir. I see no problem.
Big B borrows Prakash Jha’s entire look for Aarakshan
By Subhash K. Jha, June 20, 2011 – 11:43 IST
For Aarakshan, we first heard about the Big B borrowing the exact cut of Prakash Jha’s beard and hair for his character. It now turns out the Big B borrowed not just his facial look but also the clothes worn by Jha to play the college professor.
Says a source, “It started with the beard and hair. Amitji said he wanted that exact cut because that’s how he envisaged his character of the college professor Prabhakar Anand. Then when he sat down to discuss his character’s clothes with his designer Priyanka Mundada, Mr. Bachchan thought the clothes should also be replicated from the director. All the deep-coloured kurtas, the khadi jackets and the checked mufflers that you’ll see Amitji’s character in Aarakshan wearing are all borrowed from the director’s wardrobe.”
Apparently, the Big B even insisted on actually borrowing some accessories from Prakash Jha’s wardrobe.
Laughs Jha, “Nothing as drastic as that. But yes, Amitji did decide to model his character on me in every detail, including the clothes. I am quite flattered because I’ve never paid attention to what I wear or how I look. So if Amitji saw our hero’s character in me I must be doing something right.”
Adds the dress designer, Priyanka Mundada, “It was really interesting when Mr. Bachchan, Prakashji and I were discussing his look when Mr. Bachchan looked at Prakashji, pointed to him and said, ‘That’s it. That’s Prabhakar Anand.’
Mumbai Even as remakes have become the flavour of the season in Bollywood, megastar Amitabh Bachchan personally does not favour the trend.
“Abhishek and I feel that an original should be left (as) original. People who are doing remakes have the rights of the original films.. so they can do it,” Bachchan, whose films like ‘Satte Pe Satta’ and ‘Agneepath’– are being remade, said when asked if his company, AB Corp, plans to try its hand at remakes.
Bachchan said there was a generation that loved K L Saigal as Devdas. “For my generation, Dilip Kumar was the ultimate ‘Devdas’. For today’s youth, it is Shah Rukh. Tastes and preferences change with generations as one goes about remaking the same product. Who knows, after some years people might feel that Shah Rukh is the original Don,” the Big B said.
He also said that he was not a trendsetter for the “angry young man” characters. “There were few of them before
me, prominent one being Duttsaab (Sunil Dutt) in Mother India.”
Bachchan said his own his ‘angry young man’ characters clicked, because of the times. The youth were perceived to be angry with the system and they identified with his characters who took on an entire system and won.
He laments that the soft lyrical quality of music has disappeared. The 68-year-old is hoping that the song ‘Haal-e-dil’ sung by him in the coming ‘Bbuddah Hoga Tera Baap’ will revive that kind of music.
The veteran said he was unhappy that there was lack of good dialogue and screenplay in today’s movies, unlike films like ‘Deewar’, ‘Trishul’, ‘Silsila’, whose dialogues are remembered even today. “Today, there is no longevity.”
Performing action sequences, dancing and singing at this age was physically strenuous for him, he concedes. “I go to the gym every day. But for this role, I trained a little more and looked after my diet,” he added.
“Who knows, after some years people might feel that Shah Rukh is the original Don,” the Big B said”–Bachchan has a point there and has reason to be concerned.
Many of his worthwhile films are either being remade or are under the spectre of being remade.
The person (actor/director) remaking them (as a “tribute”) start with ready made hype, product identification and audience anxiety which even helps the opening. Bachchan doesnt have much to gain rather than the “tribute” (sic) and erosion of his exclusive brand (somewhat)
ps–Saif is irksome as the “mature” student and the hep/fair “dalit”–DOnt mind the politically incorrect tone here (since it is a reality)!
Also dont like this Mohabbatein-like monodimensional role Bachchan has been straight-jacketed here.
Bachchan works best when his multidimensional moods (different gears) are allowed to kick in!
In Bachchan’s pics i don’t see anything new here,some resemble with Mohabetein and some with Sarkar(expression wise i mean).The success of this film will be based on two things imo.1.In case the director applies his own mind in handling Bachchan in the film,if he follows the track of Puri Jagannath,Ramu,Balki who are habitual of surrendering their talent before Bachanchan’s will,then only God can save this film.2.The director keeps entertainment factor in mind alonwith the serious theme of the film.
“Puri Jagannath,Ramu,Balki who are habitual of surrendering their talent before Bachanchan’s will,…”
I was totally impressed on how Bigb gives and has been giving creative input without *interference* that other actors are known for (A.K). The yarana song’s costume was designed by bigb and so many such examples. This is called creative input and interest in one’s job. Even in other professions, it is what (little bit) extra that you bring to work that sets one apart from rest of the people with same skill set. Sridevi is another such (consumate) artist who brings in that little extra to the character she plays. BTW are you taran adarsh or just a namesake?
BTW, Is it only me or there seems to be no buzz abt Aarakshan at all. No new promos out as well. This is a Prakash Jha movie cumin after huge success Raajneeti. It needs to be promoted well.
Rajneeti and Aarakshan are totally two different things as latter being devoid of any big star.Whereas in Rajneeti’s case there were Ranbir and Katrina, main punch for the movie.Aarakshan will totally depend upon the content,so is not expected to open as big as Rajneeti.
Aarakshan faces obstacle from National Commission for Scheduled Castes
By Bollywood Hungama News Network, July 14, 2011 – 14:39 IST
Prakash Jha has always made films with a hard-hitting subject be it Mrityudand, Gangajal, Apaharan or Raajneeti. His latest Aarakshan too is based on the touchy issue of caste reservation and this seems to have got the film into some kind of trouble.
Apparently, The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has asked the filmmaker to screen the film for them before release. It’s believed that the Commission wants to make sure that the film does not misrepresent the constitutional stand and laws on reservation.
However, Prakash Jha is in no mood to give in to their demands and feels that he is not obliged to show his film to anybody apart from the Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The filmmaker has said that if the Censor board feels that it wants to show the film to any other body then it is their prerogative.
Aarakshan stars Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Manoj Bajpayee and Prateik in lead roles. The film is scheduled for release on August 12.
The real reason is probably that Prakash Jha is somewhat close to, if not the BJP, then elements in the NDA (he campaigned for Nitish Kumar’s party in Bihar when Kumar won his first term) — no surprise he shoots his films in BJP-ruled MP also (although, to be fair, part of it is that Bhopal is an under-rated locale, fairly well-maintained city with a lot of scope). I wouldn’t be surprised if this is the Congress just harassing him for extraneous reasons.
Aside: I find Prateik Babbar odd on this terrain. I wish he had gone for Ranbir here, although perhaps Ranbir didn’t want to play second fiddle to Saif. True multi-starrers are ancient history, these days even the so-called superstars don’t have the guts to show up in films where, even if they are the main event, others have great roles, great dialogs, and a lot of screen time (e.g. Amar Akbar Anthony; Kaala Patthar). i.e. we seem to be following Dilip rather than Amitabh in this. Rang de Basanti is one of the few examples I can think of in recent years.
The guy is such a brilliant actor and very under-rated and versatile. He can sink into nearly every character with ease.
Really like his pairing with Deepika who is looking gorgeous.
I don’t believe in the caste system: Amitabh Bachchan
By: IANS Date: 2011-07-18 Place: Mumbai
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who will be seen in a film themed on caste-based reservations, says he doesn’t believe in the caste system, has never faced any bias because of his caste and is proud that his father gave him a surname that doesn’t denote any such thing
“If ever I have faced a rejection or a failure, it has been on the basis of my incapability to do something and never my caste,” Amitabh, 68, told IANS in an interview.
“I think rejection because of incapability is right because if I’m not capable of doing a particular work, the other person has the right to disapprove of me or reject me. Like, I lost in politics because I was not capable, not because I was of a particular caste,” added Big B, who is a legend in the Hindi film industry with several hits like “Sholay” and “Deewar”.
In “Aarakshan”, directed by Prakash Jha and releasing Aug 12, Amitabh will be seen as the principal of a private educational institution. Themed on caste-based reservations in educational institutions, “Aarakshan” revolves around Prabhakar Anand (Amitabh), an idealistic principal, and his loyal disciple Deepak Kumar (Saif Ali Khan).
Traditional Indian society is based on social hierarchy created by the caste system.
But Amitabh said he never believed in the caste system because of his upbringing. “I never understood the caste system because I was born and brought up in a family and in an atmosphere that never ever preached caste or believed in it,” said Amitabh, eldest son of late Hindi poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Teji Bachchan.
“I feel very proud because I am the first bearer of a name that was started by my father which has no cast reference at all. My father, perhaps, was the very first individual in the city of Allahabad to have undergone an inter-caste marriage in those times.
“He married a Sikh. He was a Kayasth from UP (Uttar Pradesh). When the question came about of my admission in school and the teachers asked what is the surname, my father said he didn’t want the surname to bear any kind of caste reflection and therefore his pen name became my surname.
“So I’m very proud of the fact that I was the originator of the Bachchan name, which is casteless, if surnames are an indication of any kind of caste,” he added.
Amitabh’s family boasts of secular credentials. While his father married a Sikh, he himself is married to a Bengali (Jaya Bachchan). His son (Abhishek Bachchan) is married to a Kannadiga (Aishwarya Rai) and his daughter (Shweta Nanda) has tied the knot with a Punjabi (Nikhil Nanda).
When asked what could be done to break the caste barriers and change the situation in the country , he said: “Many attempts have been made… everywhere I have gone, where we have discussed this, we haven’t really come across a solution. It is something that we have inherited. Our social structure has been developed in this manner. We have to live with it. But I hope something can be done.”
Speaking on the film “Aarakshan”, which also stars Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Prateik Babbar and Manoj Bajpai in pivotal roles, Amitabh said director Jha helped him understand the subject quite a bit.
“I wasn’t as conversant as perhaps Prakashji about the subject because I never paid attention to it and never thought about it because I don’t believe in it. When I met Prakashji and he talked about the film, I came to know various aspects which were very convincingly and adequately explained to me during the making of the film,” said Amitabh, who has so far featured in about 180 movies.
Amitabh Bachchan to watch Aarakshan with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar
By Bollywood Hungama News Network, July 20, 2011 – 11:44 IST
Amitabh Bachchan Amitabh Bachchan will be flying to Patna to watch his upcoming film Aarakshan with Mr. Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of Bihar. Nitish Kumar is an ardent fan of Big B and expressed his desire to watch the film with Bachchan and director Prakash Jha.
Nitish Kumar and Prakash Jha have been friends for a very long time. Jha had even campaigned for Nitish Kumar during the elections in Bihar. Jha invited Nitish Kumar for a special screening of Aarakshan when the latter came to visit a new restaurant at Prakash Jha’s shopping mall in Patna. Nitishji then told Prakash that he would watch the film only if Big B and Prakash both were present at the screening.
Jha conveyed the Chief Minister’s request to Amitabh Bachchan who immediately agreed to fly down to Patna for a day despite his hectic schedule. Big B’s travel arrangements to the city are currently being made.
Aarakshan revolves around caste-based reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. The film, which releases on August 12, also stars Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Manoj Bajpayee and Prateik.
is the music here by SEL?
Like SEL–but a bit surprised –Jha and SEL not entirely from the same space …
“Reserve your love!”—like that phrase (&will probably put it into use)—hahaha
I have a soft corner for Bajpayi as an actor. I feel he has his limitations but he shines if given a good role. He was undoubtedly great in Satya but one film where I find him simply awesome was Kaun. Brought so many ranges to his character in there. He moulded his character in such a way through this performance that he came across as irritating, helpful, sincere, geeky and foolish all at the same time.
I felt bad for him after he stopped getting good roles and appeared mostly in B-grade films from Karan Razdan and Ganesh Acharya where he had anything but a convincing role. Thankfully Prakash Jha pulled him back with Raajneeti and now Aarakshan.
completely share your thoughts on him.. loved him in Rajneeti even if it was a stereotypical part.. think he’s working well in Aarakshan too on the basis of the previews.
He’ll definitly steal d show in Aarakshan but unfortunately the film is looking dull so far after watching its promos.The main trouble with this film is presence of Bachchan(please don’t kill me for this) coz if one analyses the characters portrayed by him since last decade,it’ll become evident that he has repeated such characters numerous times.Just look at same white beard,dresses,some people surrounding him and he delivering lectures on “NISHTHA”,”PRATHISTHA”,”ANUSHASAN” blah blah….So how many times are people going to tolerate him in same kind of roles/looks?Here need of the hour was to do some work on his looks but unfortunately that part has been ignored which looks like a matter of serious concern.The other main problem here is the presence of Saif in the leading role,who looks totally misfit for this type of role, though some work has really been done on his looks but that also hasn’t helped and hence the whole drama looks a flop show.ilm is looking dull so far after watching its promos.
You can attribute Bachchan’s persona to it as he’s got such a magnificient and overbearing personality with his trademark baritone that makes him completely fit for roles where he’s supposed to play the most important character, which everyone looks forward to. A typical instance would be the Head of an institution or a committee, which is what he does here.. This factor apart, it’s not that he’s played the same characters over n over again lately. A Narayan Shankar of Mohabbatein is miles away from the one in Aarakshan. Accuse the former of being a Casteist and you’ll have your bum kicked to never get admission in any college in the country. LOL!
That apart, he’s had Paa, Aks, Khakee, Dev, Black, Sarkar where every role is different from the other. Check them out!
Taran,
Find a good dentist and get your cavities fixed.Looks like there is an echo everytime you post. I am referring to dental cavities.If you need to have other cavities filled KJo/SRK can certainly oblige.
Prakash Jha takes on UP govt
By: Subhash K Jha Date: 2011-07-25 Place: Mumbai
Wants CM to explain why his Aarakshan star Big B is banned from speaking on reservations in Lucknow
The deadlock over Amitabh Bachchan addressing students of Lucknow on job reservation has now reached a flashpoint.
The Big B has been barred from talking on the issue in any part of Uttar Pradesh, and his Aarakshan director-producer Prakash Jha is livid!
“We were first denied permission to hold our seminar on job reservation at the Lucknow University,” says Jha.
“We then hired the Indira Gandhi auditorium, but again we were denied permission to hold our meeting there, this time by the Lucknow Development Authority.”
In the film, Bachchan plays a principal of a college torn by job reservation issues. Jha is, therefore, determined his lead actor talk on the subject in UP.
As such, he has now sought the intervention of the state’s chief minister Mayawati in the matter.
“I want to ask her what the problem is. Does the UP administration fear a law and order situation because of Aarakshan?”
Jha is willing to show the film to Mayawati, if she so requests. “I’ve left a message with someone close to her. Now I’m waiting for her to revert,” he confirms.
Only ve in thz movie is amitabh bachan & manoj bajpai,
i didnt understand y d hel prakash jha went with saif, even the content is good saif wil destroy, all depends on ab sr & manoj bajpai,
saif is another abhishek in serious r issue base,
Somehow dont like Bachchans look and apparent “role” here.
Have already mentioned my politically incorrect views on Saifs “dalit” elsehwere!
Ironically Deepika seems to be doing alright here ….
BUt guess the scene stealer would be Manoj Bajpai –who along with Naseer and Nana happen to be the most criminally underutilised scene stealing actors in bollywood today.
btw liked Naseers v brief role in znmd and his trademark acerbic grumpiness…..
May 18, 2011 at 8:38 AM
This film will be huge both content wise as well as boxoffice wise
May 18, 2011 at 8:39 AM
The top two images are arresting. I hope Jha has a story here that can connect.
May 18, 2011 at 8:45 AM
Yes that second one in particular is striking.
I forgot this movie was happening. Definitely something to look forward to even if Jha isn’t my favorite filmmaker.
May 18, 2011 at 8:51 AM
I am worried. If this film supports reservations or if it is against them. It may be a safe middle ground as well leaving the judgment to the audience. Reservations is an explosive subject. It still raises passions. Will it also deal with reservations being misused by creamy layer and reservations sought by upper strata like jats of Haryana?
Many students and their leaders like ABVP and other politically motivated leaders must be eagerly waiting for this movie. Kudos to Bachchan for starring in this sort of a very topical movie.
May 18, 2011 at 9:41 AM
Bachchans second image from the top has caught my eye….. He seems to be in form ….wish saif (Dalit here) doesn’t
Try to eat away to get his role enhanced– he has learnt this from some others around ….
May 18, 2011 at 10:31 AM
yes that’s a fantastic profile..
May 18, 2011 at 10:03 AM
Liking the pics
Deepika looking gorgeous
Saif & Deepika make a gr8 pair
only drawback here is that this is releasing in Ramzan and therefore might miss out on a large audience in India & overseas.
May 18, 2011 at 12:53 PM
Amitabh more popular than Taj Mahal!
The name ‘Amitabh Bachchan’ does more for India abroad than other known symbols of India’s soft power such as the Taj Mahal, curry or the Kama Sutra, according to Rachel Dwyer, an expert on Indian cinema and culture.
Delivering the Annual Distinguished Ford Lecture 2011, Dwyer, a professor based at the London-based School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), said that Bachchan was a “great communicator of moral sentiment” through films that had won fans far beyond India.
Bachchan, who was on a visit here on Tuesday, was the respondent to Dwyer’s lecture titled ‘Amitabh Bachchan: Emotion and the Star in Hindi Film’, delivered to a nearly 300-strong audience mainly comprising students and people of Indian origin in Oxford.
The lecture was sponsored by Alfred Ford and family, who support the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS). Alfred Ford is a great-grandson of Henry Ford, the car manufacturer and Sharmila Ford, Ford’s wife, is a member of the OCHS Board of Governors.
Dwyer noted that Bachchan was uncomfortable with the word ‘Bollywood’, but used the word several times in her lecture that dwelt on the importance of emotion and Bachchan’s contribution to Indian cinema in the genres of romance, comedy, and the angry young man.
Bachchan is known to prefer the use of ‘Indian film industry’ than ‘Bollywood’, since the latter resonates with Hollywood. He believes that Indian films have their unique identity that need not be clubbed together with Hollywood.
It was for the first time that Bachchan’s famous dialogues and songs such as ‘Kabhi kabhie mere dil mein khayal ata hai’ and ‘Kajara re’ were played in the historic venue of the lecture, the Examination Schools building constructed in 1882, which is the venue of final year exams of the university students.
Dwyer used clips from films to analyse Bachchan’s career, his film-names ‘Vijay’ and ‘Amit’, and said that emotion was a key feature of not only Indian films but of Indian-ness itself.
Responding to the lecture, Bachchan said that since the 1950s and 1960s when Indian films were considered infra dig by parents, it had come a long way today.
“Every time a nation does well economically, many aspects such as clothing, music, food, culture suddenly become important. The west saw Indian cinema with cynicism, but now the very factors that were criticised earlier are seen as unique. There is a vast patronage to Indian cinema abroad,” said Bachchan.
May 18, 2011 at 2:49 PM
India needs to do its part – October 11 a National holiday and pay Amitabh Bachchan 30.33% tax on his income!
May 18, 2011 at 2:48 PM
Just noticed the sedond pic from the top again —-Bachchan is looking in ominous form here….
Hope to see less and less ofsaif/deepika in this one…
And this ONE pic has reassured me that Bachchan still has something residual in his tank…..given the right vehicle…
Just wanna see a bachchan SR film with Mani and Santoshi now…..IRRESPECTIVE OF THE DAMN BOX OFFICE……………..
May 18, 2011 at 3:10 PM
Well Santoshi had launched power but something or the other keeps derailing this. With Rathnam I personally find it hard to believe there will be a film. I wish there were. Would be a dream come true but I doubt it. Not least because I think there is an ‘inner’ logic to it. Rathnam would have liked the Bachchan of the 70s, perhaps not after this. I have a formula — when Rathnam wants to do ‘Bachchan’ he goes with Abhishek because here he gets the actor he might have had Bachchan been younger and therefore less ‘carved in stone’ as a star. Which is of course not to suggest that Abhishek and his father are comparable talents. Just that the mould at certain points is very similar. But also because even a younger Bachchan was a bit more larger than life than Abhishek is even on his best day and my hunch is Rathnam prefers the latter. Only because he can in an odd way explore more this way. Even in Tamil cinema he’s not been very comfortable with titans. And here Thalapathy offers a clue. Because you have Rajni at his peak and Rathnam ties to tone him down quite a bit. I’d actually say that Mohanlal and even Mammootty are more Rathnam’s ‘kind’ of titanic figures than either Rajni or Kamal. Because they have the right balance between the iconic and performance. It is very hard to find even great stars ‘within’ whom these gifts are balanced just right. Bachchan of course comes to mind but in him the combination is just too overwhelming once one gets beyond the 70s. Or even in that period there is always the danger of the parallel text. With Kamal you don’t get the true megastar’s signature though you of course get the great actor. With Rajni you get the other end of the spectrum (or almost). Mammootty and Lal though have the right balance without being completely overwhelming. Specially with Lal you have an actor who can be made a ‘child’ again which is to say ‘new’ (though a certain qualification is necessary here inasmuch as Lal has also gone masala for two decades or so now and is very larger than life in many of those films but this too has hurt him in some ways..). Of course over time no star can seem that fresh and Mammootty/Lal are no exceptions either. But Lal for example was very spontaneous in Iruvar (mean this in the precise sense of being unencumbered by one’s history). With Bachchan after the 70s it is perhaps always too late because the star signature is just too extreme. And I don’t mean this negatively. Just a comment on the kind of star he was. Which is why even over the last decade you have to create really ‘abnormal’ moments for him for the star signature to be kept in check. Black and Paa are two examples here. Main Azaad Hoon is the counter-example of ‘failure’ or why Bachchan couldn’t simply be that ordinary. So getting back to Abhishek here you have the ‘Bachchan’ sign ‘in the making’ as it were. and the fascinating thing about it is that because of different eras and of course Abhishek’s own choices he will always be ‘in the making’ in this context. In other words he does not live in an era where he will keep getting Yuva or Guru followups (as has already been the case) and so on (in fact he always has to play in a sense against his natural strengths, at least in terms of the physicality.. in other words would one want Bachchan to do Deewar or Dostana? It’s not about having the talent to do both.. Bachchan’s comedies were also larger than life with Desai.. in the same vein would one want Bachchan to work out and do stunts?!). So for Rathnam he will always be on the cusp or represent the Bachchan of Zanjeer or even Deewar but no later than this.
May 18, 2011 at 3:31 PM
“Even in Tamil cinema he’s not been very comfortable with titans. And here Thalapathy offers a clue. Because you have Rajni at his peak and Rathnam ties to tone him down quite a bit. I’d actually say that Mohanlal and even Mammootty are more Rathnam’s ‘kind’ of titanic figures than either Rajni or Kamal. Because they have the right balance between the iconic and performance. ”
I have been looking for an explanation to y mani hasnt worked with the SR bachchan and keeps working with the jr bachchan.
With all due respects to abhishrek, there is NO comparison to the Amitabh..
Think guys like mani have a control freak element and are too mild to handle potential complications on the set.
All said and done—Wanna see A Senior Bachchan starrer in a larger than life role directed by Mani Ratnam with Music by AR Rahman—period…….
Sometimes one single pic or moment is enuf.
The pic (second from the top) uniquely encapsulates the iconicity/ poise and larger than life ( yet cultured) persona of Amitabh….
One of the best recent stills of amitabh Bachchan
For me less is more—sometimes one pic or one moment is more than a decade of work………..
May 18, 2011 at 3:44 PM
I’d definitely argue that for Mani, Lal is the ideal star-actor in every sense. Not only because he strikes this balance so well but because Lal’s natural approach to acting probably dovetails with Mani’s filmmaking (and script writing) style in a way that feels a lot more harmonious than might be the case with a Rajni or a Bachchan. It’s no surprise that Ratnam’s greatest film had this specific actor in the lead and I of course don’t mean to say that Lal alone is the reason Iruvar is what it is. Just that it is somehow poetic that he was cast here.
May 18, 2011 at 4:01 PM
ONe can keep arguing from dawn to dusk about trivialities—–
I know who are the best indian actor, director and music director alive today ie bachchan sr, mani and ARR—want them to come together in a film—period…
ps— Have seen Mohan lal only in compamy and am convinced about his
superskill in acting , but as a star…not so sure……His “physicality” has some limitations there (to be polite)…
May 18, 2011 at 4:10 PM
“Lal’s natural approach to acting probably dovetails with Mani’s fi”lmmaking (and script writing) style in a way that feels a lot more harmonious than might be the case with a Rajni or a Bachchan. “—Agree there.
Also Mani feels comfy working with people who he can “boss” or “make them run around” in a v simplistic sense—He cannot do this with Bahchchan sr!!
Somehow, unlike Aarkashan, this “Buddha” project is looking as a sort of “BAchchan parody” aiming to milk every reminaing ounce of his epic moments and landmark films,,,,
This will work financially due to the v low budget, but not sure if the product will be interesting if not handled deftly….
May 18, 2011 at 4:12 PM
Dude, take it easy. I wasn’t “arguing” for Lal over Bachchan in a grand sense and I wasn’t even addressing your comment. Merely arguing in support of what Satyam said about Lal (and Mammootty) being the star-actors in India that are best “suited” for Ratnam.
As for your estimation of Lal in any sense…well, an under-educated opinion means very little to me!
May 18, 2011 at 4:15 PM
“Also Mani feels comfy working with people who he can “boss” or “make them run around” in a v simplistic sense”
Yes, because we all know that Rajnikanth in the 90s and Kamal Hassan in the 80s could be made to run around at anyone’s beck and call.
May 18, 2011 at 5:21 PM
LOL!!!
May 18, 2011 at 4:16 PM
GF—i agreed with your cumment on Lals affinity to Mani style more than bachchan–read my other comment….lol
Its just that Lal has obvious limitations due to physicality, language, appeal from being a big pan Indian MEGASTAR actor…
May 18, 2011 at 5:35 PM
Alex, no Southern star can be a pan-Indian star. The limitations are of language and a gesturality that doesn’t translate completely. On the physicality I would disagree completely. Even in Company I think he is by far the film’s most impressive physical presence. Yes he definitely put on too much weight over time and no one would defend this but his singularity is nonetheless unaffected by it. And again there are some great masala moments of his where the ‘weight’ is very much part of the deal. The thing is that Southern cinema for the most part remains a ‘domain’ inaccessible to ‘Northerners’. Because they too are Indians a certain illusion of commonality is created but the film tradition is often radically different. As someone who started watching Mohanlal relatively late I must say I find him easily one of the 2-3 most arresting Indian stars. And I am not even getting into performance here. And again even in Company both his performance and his presence easily chew up the competition (not that Devgan and Vivek Oberoi could possibly offer competition!).
I’d say as a more general matter that cinema isn’t about ‘good looks’ in any traditional sense but about screen presence. Bachchan when he first arrived in the industry and for some years afterward for considered a bit shocking in terms of his physicality. Often the traditionally good-looking guys are not the greatest stars. But one has to be housed within a tradition to get this. And for this one really has to watch a lot of films.
Finally not sure what being pan-Indian means. Yes he can never be as influential as Bachchan. But it doesn’t mean anything beyond this. It’s like saying Bachchan is limited because he doesn’t work in Hollywood. Every two bit star from this industry is more well known globally than Bachchan! What does this mean?! As far as I’m concerned it’s about getting familiar with a tradition and then trying to work from within that frame as much as possible. So for example when I watch a Japanese star I have to try and figure him (or her) out within that tradition (hate to say it but Malayalam cinema might as well be Japanese cinema for most Hindi film viewers!). One cannot become an insider by any means but one can learn by exposing oneself to more rather than less. Much as if one comes across a fine novelist from Albania one doesn’t exactly ask how influential the author has been relative to a British one.
May 18, 2011 at 4:18 PM
When did anyone argue that about Lal? He’s the farthest thing from a pan-Indian actor/star. It’s another matter that despite this he’s one of the nation’s very best star actors. Two entirely different points here.
He’s my favorite in Indian cinema, of course, but that certainly doesn’t mean he’s India’s favorite.
May 18, 2011 at 5:20 PM
I think so.. Had Lal been a Tamil actor I suspect Rathnam would have done more work with him.
May 21, 2011 at 3:30 AM
i am totally agreed that ratnam is more fascinated to big b of 70s and 80s, and in all three film with ab, there is hint of angry young man of 70s in all the characters of ab, even in guru, young man fighting against the system to become biggest tycoon of industry, so, all the characters he has given to ab could be essayed by ab sr of 70s and 80s, perhaps ratnam also thinks that now he can not work with bigb, even at the time of yuva, in his interview to mtv he admits that it is huge responsiblity to work with bigb, perhaps this is the reason besides ab’s talent, he is so fascinated with ab, but i wish that ratnam will work with ab for forth time, ab has great tuning with him, rohan sippy, rgv etc. i think those three directors have explored ab very well and brings the potential out of him, with shaad he has brought humorous side of ab in bnb, but he was pathetic in jbj, he could not take advantage of super success of guru, and excellent music by shankar, and terrific starcast, with ab and preity they can make very good pair on screen. jbj was diaster in terms of quality of movie.
May 18, 2011 at 2:56 PM
OT,
Now, a film on Rekha
Filmmaker Anil Sharma’s younger brother Kapil Sharma is all set to become a director and wants to make a film on the life of veteran actress Rekha. Interestingly, he wants Bipasha Basu, Sridevi or Rani Mukerji to play the role of the controversial actress.
Our source confirmed, “It will be a film on Rekha where the mysteries surrounding her will be revealed. Kapil has written the script and after working on Dunno Y… Na Jaane Kyon, he wants to make a film based on the industry.
Kapil is considering some top actresses for the role of Rekha and other vital characters that have come in Rekha’s life from Big B to Kiran Kumar to Vinod Mehra and even Jaya Bachchan.”
When contacted Kapil Sharma said, “Yes, I am making a film on a controversial actress who has been an ex number one in the industry. However, I am not comfortable talking about it now. All I can say is that the film is called Sitaare and has the backdrop of Bollywood.
The film has an ensemble cast and will have 7-8 major characters. I am still to finalise the lead actors.”
“It is a story that I wanted to tell. I have been an industry kid and I want to unveil the mystery behind the actress. It is the journey of the actress, which is so interesting and colourful. It is her iconic career, her relationships and the ups and downs in her life,” he further added.
I guess we have to just wait and watch.
May 18, 2011 at 3:05 PM
Nice images and this is the movie I was talking about, not some collection of sabka baap bachchan nonsense.
Btw, I am very pleased Jha has realized the importance of stars and making movies on a larger canvas. Few of his brilliant work were lost on talented but unappealing actors who brought nothing new to the table except going through the motions of brooding and staring in the camera.
May 18, 2011 at 3:10 PM
It was here I defended casting Rampal in Rajneeti and once the movie came out , he had the best reveiws and was the best thing in the movie alongwith Bajpai.
Rampal is a Delhi Univ graduate and that too from a Bihari political hotbed – Hindu College. I knew he would get the nuances of that character.
May 18, 2011 at 3:55 PM
I hope there is not even a hint of helplessness to Amitabh’s character.
Just like we are prisoners of our births, iconic film stars are prisoners of their image and the public is just not ready to see an AB character that is not fighting and winning.
May 18, 2011 at 5:21 PM
that’s quite right.. every film that shows him helpless even in a limited sense gets affected in box office terms.
May 18, 2011 at 4:25 PM
As for Rajni Kant, Mammootty, my knowledge is admittedly v primitive due to language ….
BUt have seen enuf of Lal (in one film) and kamal Hassan in few films, to know their worth..
Anyhow, this is an area (south indian films) where i raise my hands up in ignorance….lol
Kamal Hassan is incidentally my personal favorite from down south, not only as a star actor but also as a director (Hey Raam)….
But these are all ignorant musings….
May 18, 2011 at 4:30 PM
Kamal is an excellent director, possibly one of the best working today if only he’d work more often. His skills in this sense I think outweigh his ability as an actor these days especially.
The DVD of his second film as director after Hey Ram, Virumaandi, is easily available and very much worth watching. I’d recommend it. And don’t know if you’ve seen Ratnam’s Tamil works but since he’s apparently your favorite director I’d suggest that you pick up Kannathil Muthamittal and of course Iruvar. All of these works are easily available with subtitles and entirely worth picking up if you feel inclined.
May 18, 2011 at 4:37 PM
Thanx —will try those…
Incidentally “hey Raam” is one of the v rare films that I have seen more than thrice (once on the big screen)
Im still amazed, and even shocked at his grip, range, vision and sensitivity of direction—just one word—Brilliant!!
One standout scene( out of many)—
Kamal witnesses a man tied to an elephants foot and prbably trampled.
Days and may scenes later, he sees an elephant on the street–He instinctively pauses for a second to check the elephants feet—no words. no music….Enjoy this sort of subtlety!!
I dont think the Lals and the Rajnis and the mammootys can better THAT…lol
PS—the appeal of rajni kant remains a mystery lol
May 18, 2011 at 4:39 PM
Incidentally Satyam is currently viewing “Agent Vinod.”….lol
May 18, 2011 at 5:19 PM
It’s great (campy) fun!
May 18, 2011 at 5:44 PM
“even in Company both his performance and his presence easily chew up the competition (not that Devgan and Vivek Oberoi could possibly offer competition!)” —Agree bout lal in “company”.
even dev gun was v good in company—perhaps one of his alltime best //#
DOnt know of Lals rest of filmography to comment………………
May 18, 2011 at 5:45 PM
yeah you’re only missing 300 or so films..
May 18, 2011 at 5:52 PM
LOL.
May 18, 2011 at 6:26 PM
LOL. Sarcasm is lost on Alex.
May 18, 2011 at 6:19 PM
Very impressive. The topmost 2 pictures are unbelievably striking, especially the second.
Waiting impatiently to see his look in BHTB.
It’s very satisfying to see ABsr in two such dissimilar roles. I hope the song sung by him will be as interesting, iconic, and popular as his ‘paan’ and ‘holi’ songs.
May 19, 2011 at 8:53 AM
Alex this one’s for you:
I’ve used this as the image of the day today. Haven’t seen this particular film though (Dhanam).
May 19, 2011 at 9:02 AM
It’s a Sibi Malayil film from 1991. A very solid film, but their other collaborations (Kireedam, Bharatham) from the period put it in the shade.
May 20, 2011 at 6:10 AM
kireedam was remade in hindi with jakie shroff…by priyaCOPYdarshan into ….VIRASAT!
June 6, 2011 at 3:29 AM
Kireedam was remade as Gardish. Virasat was remade from Thevar Magan, the Kamal-Sivaji starrer.
May 19, 2011 at 9:05 AM
Always found this pretty striking, from Kireedam:
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ga4vVX-oLuk/SWtMkphoHLI/AAAAAAAAAAs/heIRTyU9b4Y/s400/Mohanlal_200505_2.jpg
May 19, 2011 at 9:56 AM
that’s a fine fine image…
May 20, 2011 at 6:11 AM
sorry gardish!
May 20, 2011 at 12:35 PM
Lol haven’t lost on any sarcasm.
Usually like to stay mum on things I don’t know well– as in this case due to language ….
Anyhow after seeing mohanlal only in one film – company, don’t think I should be commenting too much bout him–lol
But all o can say is he appeared more than competent in company– Infact he had that understated nuanced subtlety that I usually like.
Ps he looks much” slimmer” in this new pic by satyam(if “slim” can be used in his context…..lol
Hope gf is not going orgasmic somewhere — lol-
May 24, 2011 at 3:06 AM
chalo anyone has the balls to make the movie on this complex subject
will be interesting what route jha takes as in his earlier work he got the things in platter
gangajal ( real incidents) and rajneeti( the easy way of showing dynasty culture with mockery of democracy on lines of mahabharat and godfather) where still much simpler
this is a debatable topic ….. and will be interesting to see wheather he will play safe with climax or controvesial his own version
May 25, 2011 at 9:41 AM
‘Aarakshan’ is better than ‘Raajneeti’, says Prakash Jha
Spicezee Bureau
Mumbai: One of a kind cinema auteur Prakash Jha claims that his next film ‘Aarakshan’ is better than his last outing ‘Raajneeti’. ‘Aarakshan’ approaches the issue of reservation and quota system in India. This venture of Jha stars biggies like Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and also Prateik Babbar.
Prakash Jha is confident about ‘Aarakshan’ and the master helmer has his own good reasons for placing the film in higher esteem than his last hit ‘Raajneeti’.
A close associate of Jha revealed to the media, “After the success of ‘Raajneeti’, Prakash Jha`s upcoming film ‘Aarakshan’ has generated big interest among the trade circles. Moreover, in Jha`s own estimation, ‘Aarakshan’ is a notch above ‘Raajneeti’ since he believes that it has a more focused storyline than his previous film.”
/2011/5/25/raaj180.jpgJha said that ‘Aarakshan’ is not the kind of flick which will dictate or preach any solutions to the issue of caste system. According to him, “This is just a way to let out the feelings that society has been suppressing for years. The pain is on all the sides. I have tried to understand the reality of it.”
‘Aarakshan’ recently courted controversy over Saif Ali Khan being casted as a dalit in the film. A certain dalit Suraksha Samiti has sent Jha a letter at his Patna office, claiming that Saif Ali Khan hails from the royal family and his playing a dalit is an insult to their community. The letter also threatens Jha of `serious repercussions` if he doesn`t explain why he has caste Saif for the role.
June 2, 2011 at 8:55 AM
Saif becomes Prakash Jha’s new blue eyed boy after Ajay?
By Joginder Tuteja, June 2, 2011 – 12:00 IST
Saif Ali Khan, Prakash Jha Saif Ali Khan has managed to impress his Aarakshan director Prakash Jha immensely. So much so that the filmmaker can be heard singing praises about the man with whom he has worked for the first time.
‘What’s so special about this?’ One may exclaim, ‘After all every director is bound to appreciate his cast’. Well, what makes this appreciation special is the fact that this is the first time in a decade that Jha has directed a film that doesn’t feature his favourite actor Ajay Devgn. The fact that Saif replaced Ajay in the film post his fall-out with Jha after Raajneeti only makes the proceedings further interesting.
“It is a known fact that Jha and Devgn were an unbreakable team till Raajneeti happened. Their over one decade long association that started with Dil Kya Kare (1999) continued to reap fruits with Gangaajal (2003), Apaharan (2005) and Raajneeti (2010)”, a trade source comments, “It seemed like they would forever be working together but as there is nothing permanent in Bollywood, so was this association as well. Though none have gone on record to talk about the alleged split, it is widely believed that the tension erupted during Raajneeti owing to the length of Ajay’s role in the film.”
Though there were speculations making the rounds, momentary respite came in once Ajay was said to be working with Jha again in Aarakshan. However just when everything about the film was already set with the shoot about to begin, Ajay was said to have opted out of the film. Though it was being rumoured that Ajay took this decision as owing to his age he wasn’t comfortable playing a college student in some portions of the film, no official statement was made from either ends. Meanwhile Jha approached Saif as a quick replacement who was more than willing to oblige.
“Saif has excelled big time and has exceeded my expectations”, says Jha who also had another towering personality in the form of Amitabh Bachchan supporting him during every step of the film making, “He is playing a very simple character in the film. He plays someone who belongs to the backward class and studies hard in an endeavour to grow in life and reach the top of the ladder.”
To make Saif familiar with the film and it’s setting, Jha also held workshops. “We had sessions with the entire principal cast where we did rehearsals, read out lines and talked about the characters in general. Saif wasn’t the only one singled out.”
This is five years after his ‘Langda Tyagi’ act in Omkara that Saif Ali Khan is playing a rather serious character. With Jha known for extracting award winning performances from his actors, one now looks forward to whether Saif manages to repeat the feat as well, hence kick starting a new association with Jha which was once reserved only for Ajay.
June 6, 2011 at 7:42 AM
The posters are crisp but could have been more interesting..
June 7, 2011 at 8:42 AM
When is the movie releasing? Didn’t know bajpai was in it too…I think bigb and bajpai did AKS before…can’t wait to see them together again…awesome!!
June 7, 2011 at 5:33 PM
This is looking quite good. I thought Saif and Big B in Eklavya would be a moment to look forward to but Saif was a bit flat in that film.
June 8, 2011 at 3:00 PM
The only pic of real interest to me is the Bachchan solo pic (5th from the top now) ..(wet face–looking down–no specs)
Rest of them are par but nothing special imo.
Think Bachchan needs to get rid of his glasses –that hide his most effective weapon (his eyes and gaze).
ALso as pointed out in the buddha blog, time has come for bachchan to get rid of his goatie—those who post on his blog etc–can plz suggest this to him ..
As for Saif—to me, he is super slick and is even brilliant in flicks like DCH, Salaam Namaste, Love aaj kal.
But just bcos Saif has ambitions to show his “versatility” and “range”, will not make me forcibly applaud his attempts in various “different” roles and attires (and that includes “langda tyagi” in Omkaara—Another situtation where people fell for the age old trick of confusing a good persona and role with a brilliant performance. But if someone has extreme views of his “greatness” in that role, I wont disapprove that either, since this depends on “viewer discretion and taste”….
PS1–Loved Saif in “Salaam Namaste” and liked the movie …..
PS2-The “posters” of Aakarshan above have quite insightful statements and statistics…
This one caught my eye–”the backward castes increased from 1257 in 1991 to 2207 in 2006—–hmmmm-another point……
June 9, 2011 at 4:33 AM
” think bigb and bajpai did AKS before…can’t wait to see them together again…awesome!!”—agree dimps..
Loved AKS
Just a sample for those not aware…
June 14, 2011 at 1:40 AM
Big B in case of split personality
By: Subhash K Jha Date: 2011-06-14 Place: Mumbai
Amitabh Bachchan’s flamboyant ‘Bbuddah’ is a cause of worry for Prakash Jha’s ‘Aarakshan’
Amitabh Bachchan’s two back-to-back releases Bbuddah – Hoga Terra Baap and Aarakshan are caught in a combat of sorts. The two films portray the mega-star in absolutely contrasting roles.
In BHTP, which is being produced by AB Corps, he plays a defiant anti-social rebel, who thinks he is still 22. While in Aarakshan, which is being directed by Prakash Jha, he plays a senior respectable professor!
Jha is now worried that his film, which deals with a serious social issue, would suffer if thrown against the flamboyant bachchanalia of his character in Bbuddah.
A friend of senior Bachchan says, “Jha does have a disadvantage.
Once the veteran actor is shown as a bad boy having all the fun in the world in the Puri Jagannath movie, the audiences would find it difficult to adapt to his ideologically motivated part in Aarakshan.
Jha’s team fears that BHTB might still be playing in theatres when their movie releases.”
Clash of interest
To avoid a clash of interest, the director has now suspended all the marketing and promotional events related to his movie.
Says a source, “Prakash has made up his mind to keep his movie completely away from the other.
He also turned down the suggestion to attach Aarakshan’s trailer to Bbuddah since he felt it would create a completely undesirable impression in the audiences’ minds.”
When contacted the director said, “We will cease all promotions of the film until after the release of Bbuddah. Both the movies feature Amitji in diametrically opposite roles. We don’t want any confusion or clash of interest.”
Gag order
Apparently, Jha has also requested Big B not to make any mention of his movie in any media event until Bbuddah is released.
However, the filmmaker shot down reports about his refusal to attach the trailor of his film to the other but revealed he has spoken to the makers of Double Dhamaal to attach the trailer of his movie.
Singing the blues
There’s also buzz that Prakash has cut down the proposal to have Big B sing for his flick. Retorts Jha, “Not at all! Amitji is certainly not singing in my film. This is not that kind of a film where his character can sing.”
June 14, 2011 at 2:27 PM
June 16, 2011 at 8:41 PM
Jun 10, 2011 – 08:00 AM
Deepika Padukone: “I don’t need a man to buy me a house’’
Deepika Padukone doesn’t deny her friendship with ex Ranbir Kapoor nor her fondness for alleged beau Siddhartha Mallya. Filmfare gets down to the heart of the matter. Excerpts
Deepika_Padukone_1What does Karan Johar mix in his coffee that you guys go berserk on his show? The joint interview with Sonam was fiery.
I don’t think people plan their interviews. I definitely don’t. It’s just about being spontaneous and going with the flow. No way have I regretted that. We had a great time on Karan’s show.
Okay, which co-star is great fun to work with?
In terms of fun, it’s Abhishek Bachchan. But I’ve got along the best with Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan.
So what is your equation with Ranbir Kapoor today?
What I’ve always maintained is that Ranbir and I are very good friends. Even today that would be the most important relationship for me.
Can two actresses ever be friends?
No, because at some level competition does prevail. But it doesn’t mean you can’t be cordial to each other.
Do men gossip?
Yes men gossip as much or even more. They just don’t show it.
Deepika_Padukone_2Working with first time filmmakers or established directors, what’s your priority today?
A mix of both. I’ve done quite a few films with new directors. Danish Aslam (Break Ke Baad), Vijay Lalwani (Karthik Calling Karthik) and I’ve also done films with Ashu (Ashutosh Gowariker, Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey. Even Farah Khan (Om Shanti Om) is established.
You have been taking a lot of interest in cricket. Have you shifted your interest from badminton to cricket?
I don’t think it’s a shift. Badminton games are not covered widely. So people don’t know when I attend them. Whereas cricket is a religion! It’s covered widely. There is a lot of glamour attached to it especially with the IPL. So I get noticed.
What is a bigger religion in India – films or cricket?
I’m an actor so I’d say films. Cinema is as entertaining as cricket.
What would you like to tell me about Siddhartha Mallya?
Well, I think he is at a stage in his life right now where he’s being spoken about rather than him speaking to people.
What else do you like about him?
His good looks, his caring nature and the fact that he has lost so much weight.
Rumour has it that he has bought you a house.
Honestly, I’ve been independent from the start of my career. I moved out of home at the age of 20. I started modelling when I was 18. I started my first film when I was 21. Today when I’ve worked a little harder I’ve bought myself a bigger home in Prabhadevi. It’s my dream home. I definitely don’t a needa man to get me any of this. Sid himself lives with his father (Dr Vijay Mallya) and hasn’t bought himself a house. Why would he buy me one?
Deepika_Padukone_3You’ve never admitted to your relationship with Siddharth. But recently when his team Royal Challengers Bangalore defeated Kolkata Knight Riders, you hugged and kissed him in public. Is that an acknowledgement of your special bond?
Well, we both are huge cricket fans. He is the owner of the team and I’m from Bangalore. When the team plays well, we’ll definitely celebrate and not look in the opposite direction.
How does Aarakshan take you several steps ahead?
Why only Aarakshan? Every film should be able to do that. It’s a misconception that in doing a glamorous role, talent is not required. And while it’s important to look great, what makes a film memorable are the performances. I know Saif Ali Khan and Prakashji (Jha) are happy with my performance. In fact, Prakashji said that he’d never felt the need to call any actress and tell her how impressed he was with her work. He did that with me, so he must be happy.
How does it feel when Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra are counted amongst the top actresses and you aren’t mentioned in the same league?
They’ve been here for much longer. Kareena has definitely been around for 10 years, Katrina has been around for six to eight years and Priyanka’s given the profession eight to 10 years. I definitely don’t consider myself in the same league as them. I’m not going anywhere. I don’t plan to hang my boots or get married soon.
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
At the peak of my career.
Do you see yourself among the top?
Yeah hopefully!
How do you reconcile to the fact that in Rana you are acting with Rajnikanth who’s twice your age?
I’m very lucky. I didn’t think it would ever happen. I thought working with Amitji would be possible because we belong to the same industry but not Rajniknath. I’m playing a warrior princess opposite Rajni sir. I see no problem.
June 20, 2011 at 8:43 AM
Big B borrows Prakash Jha’s entire look for Aarakshan
By Subhash K. Jha, June 20, 2011 – 11:43 IST
For Aarakshan, we first heard about the Big B borrowing the exact cut of Prakash Jha’s beard and hair for his character. It now turns out the Big B borrowed not just his facial look but also the clothes worn by Jha to play the college professor.
Says a source, “It started with the beard and hair. Amitji said he wanted that exact cut because that’s how he envisaged his character of the college professor Prabhakar Anand. Then when he sat down to discuss his character’s clothes with his designer Priyanka Mundada, Mr. Bachchan thought the clothes should also be replicated from the director. All the deep-coloured kurtas, the khadi jackets and the checked mufflers that you’ll see Amitji’s character in Aarakshan wearing are all borrowed from the director’s wardrobe.”
Apparently, the Big B even insisted on actually borrowing some accessories from Prakash Jha’s wardrobe.
Laughs Jha, “Nothing as drastic as that. But yes, Amitji did decide to model his character on me in every detail, including the clothes. I am quite flattered because I’ve never paid attention to what I wear or how I look. So if Amitji saw our hero’s character in me I must be doing something right.”
Adds the dress designer, Priyanka Mundada, “It was really interesting when Mr. Bachchan, Prakashji and I were discussing his look when Mr. Bachchan looked at Prakashji, pointed to him and said, ‘That’s it. That’s Prabhakar Anand.’
Adds Mr. Bachchan, “We jointly agreed on that!”
June 20, 2011 at 8:46 AM
Originals should be left as original: Big B
Mumbai Even as remakes have become the flavour of the season in Bollywood, megastar Amitabh Bachchan personally does not favour the trend.
“Abhishek and I feel that an original should be left (as) original. People who are doing remakes have the rights of the original films.. so they can do it,” Bachchan, whose films like ‘Satte Pe Satta’ and ‘Agneepath’– are being remade, said when asked if his company, AB Corp, plans to try its hand at remakes.
Bachchan said there was a generation that loved K L Saigal as Devdas. “For my generation, Dilip Kumar was the ultimate ‘Devdas’. For today’s youth, it is Shah Rukh. Tastes and preferences change with generations as one goes about remaking the same product. Who knows, after some years people might feel that Shah Rukh is the original Don,” the Big B said.
He also said that he was not a trendsetter for the “angry young man” characters. “There were few of them before
me, prominent one being Duttsaab (Sunil Dutt) in Mother India.”
Bachchan said his own his ‘angry young man’ characters clicked, because of the times. The youth were perceived to be angry with the system and they identified with his characters who took on an entire system and won.
He laments that the soft lyrical quality of music has disappeared. The 68-year-old is hoping that the song ‘Haal-e-dil’ sung by him in the coming ‘Bbuddah Hoga Tera Baap’ will revive that kind of music.
The veteran said he was unhappy that there was lack of good dialogue and screenplay in today’s movies, unlike films like ‘Deewar’, ‘Trishul’, ‘Silsila’, whose dialogues are remembered even today. “Today, there is no longevity.”
Performing action sequences, dancing and singing at this age was physically strenuous for him, he concedes. “I go to the gym every day. But for this role, I trained a little more and looked after my diet,” he added.
July 9, 2011 at 10:04 AM
Wish Bachchan didn’t have so much of the Mohabbatein hangover here. Deepika looks absolutely radiant..
July 9, 2011 at 11:14 AM
“Who knows, after some years people might feel that Shah Rukh is the original Don,” the Big B said”–Bachchan has a point there and has reason to be concerned.
Many of his worthwhile films are either being remade or are under the spectre of being remade.
The person (actor/director) remaking them (as a “tribute”) start with ready made hype, product identification and audience anxiety which even helps the opening. Bachchan doesnt have much to gain rather than the “tribute” (sic) and erosion of his exclusive brand (somewhat)
ps–Saif is irksome as the “mature” student and the hep/fair “dalit”–DOnt mind the politically incorrect tone here (since it is a reality)!
July 9, 2011 at 3:46 PM
Also dont like this Mohabbatein-like monodimensional role Bachchan has been straight-jacketed here.
Bachchan works best when his multidimensional moods (different gears) are allowed to kick in!
July 9, 2011 at 9:20 PM
In Bachchan’s pics i don’t see anything new here,some resemble with Mohabetein and some with Sarkar(expression wise i mean).The success of this film will be based on two things imo.1.In case the director applies his own mind in handling Bachchan in the film,if he follows the track of Puri Jagannath,Ramu,Balki who are habitual of surrendering their talent before Bachanchan’s will,then only God can save this film.2.The director keeps entertainment factor in mind alonwith the serious theme of the film.
July 9, 2011 at 10:09 PM
“Puri Jagannath,Ramu,Balki who are habitual of surrendering their talent before Bachanchan’s will,…”
I was totally impressed on how Bigb gives and has been giving creative input without *interference* that other actors are known for (A.K). The yarana song’s costume was designed by bigb and so many such examples. This is called creative input and interest in one’s job. Even in other professions, it is what (little bit) extra that you bring to work that sets one apart from rest of the people with same skill set. Sridevi is another such (consumate) artist who brings in that little extra to the character she plays. BTW are you taran adarsh or just a namesake?
July 9, 2011 at 10:56 PM
Ajay Devgn has been a lucky mascot for Jha.
July 11, 2011 at 11:57 AM
BTW, Is it only me or there seems to be no buzz abt Aarakshan at all. No new promos out as well. This is a Prakash Jha movie cumin after huge success Raajneeti. It needs to be promoted well.
July 12, 2011 at 1:05 AM
Rajneeti and Aarakshan are totally two different things as latter being devoid of any big star.Whereas in Rajneeti’s case there were Ranbir and Katrina, main punch for the movie.Aarakshan will totally depend upon the content,so is not expected to open as big as Rajneeti.
July 14, 2011 at 8:01 AM
Aarakshan faces obstacle from National Commission for Scheduled Castes
By Bollywood Hungama News Network, July 14, 2011 – 14:39 IST
Prakash Jha has always made films with a hard-hitting subject be it Mrityudand, Gangajal, Apaharan or Raajneeti. His latest Aarakshan too is based on the touchy issue of caste reservation and this seems to have got the film into some kind of trouble.
Apparently, The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has asked the filmmaker to screen the film for them before release. It’s believed that the Commission wants to make sure that the film does not misrepresent the constitutional stand and laws on reservation.
However, Prakash Jha is in no mood to give in to their demands and feels that he is not obliged to show his film to anybody apart from the Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The filmmaker has said that if the Censor board feels that it wants to show the film to any other body then it is their prerogative.
Aarakshan stars Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Manoj Bajpayee and Prateik in lead roles. The film is scheduled for release on August 12.
July 16, 2011 at 1:16 AM
The real reason is probably that Prakash Jha is somewhat close to, if not the BJP, then elements in the NDA (he campaigned for Nitish Kumar’s party in Bihar when Kumar won his first term) — no surprise he shoots his films in BJP-ruled MP also (although, to be fair, part of it is that Bhopal is an under-rated locale, fairly well-maintained city with a lot of scope). I wouldn’t be surprised if this is the Congress just harassing him for extraneous reasons.
Aside: I find Prateik Babbar odd on this terrain. I wish he had gone for Ranbir here, although perhaps Ranbir didn’t want to play second fiddle to Saif. True multi-starrers are ancient history, these days even the so-called superstars don’t have the guts to show up in films where, even if they are the main event, others have great roles, great dialogs, and a lot of screen time (e.g. Amar Akbar Anthony; Kaala Patthar). i.e. we seem to be following Dilip rather than Amitabh in this. Rang de Basanti is one of the few examples I can think of in recent years.
July 16, 2011 at 4:55 AM
Loving Saif posters
The guy is such a brilliant actor and very under-rated and versatile. He can sink into nearly every character with ease.
Really like his pairing with Deepika who is looking gorgeous.
July 18, 2011 at 9:40 AM
I don’t believe in the caste system: Amitabh Bachchan
By: IANS Date: 2011-07-18 Place: Mumbai
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who will be seen in a film themed on caste-based reservations, says he doesn’t believe in the caste system, has never faced any bias because of his caste and is proud that his father gave him a surname that doesn’t denote any such thing
“If ever I have faced a rejection or a failure, it has been on the basis of my incapability to do something and never my caste,” Amitabh, 68, told IANS in an interview.
“I think rejection because of incapability is right because if I’m not capable of doing a particular work, the other person has the right to disapprove of me or reject me. Like, I lost in politics because I was not capable, not because I was of a particular caste,” added Big B, who is a legend in the Hindi film industry with several hits like “Sholay” and “Deewar”.
In “Aarakshan”, directed by Prakash Jha and releasing Aug 12, Amitabh will be seen as the principal of a private educational institution. Themed on caste-based reservations in educational institutions, “Aarakshan” revolves around Prabhakar Anand (Amitabh), an idealistic principal, and his loyal disciple Deepak Kumar (Saif Ali Khan).
Traditional Indian society is based on social hierarchy created by the caste system.
But Amitabh said he never believed in the caste system because of his upbringing. “I never understood the caste system because I was born and brought up in a family and in an atmosphere that never ever preached caste or believed in it,” said Amitabh, eldest son of late Hindi poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Teji Bachchan.
“I feel very proud because I am the first bearer of a name that was started by my father which has no cast reference at all. My father, perhaps, was the very first individual in the city of Allahabad to have undergone an inter-caste marriage in those times.
“He married a Sikh. He was a Kayasth from UP (Uttar Pradesh). When the question came about of my admission in school and the teachers asked what is the surname, my father said he didn’t want the surname to bear any kind of caste reflection and therefore his pen name became my surname.
“So I’m very proud of the fact that I was the originator of the Bachchan name, which is casteless, if surnames are an indication of any kind of caste,” he added.
Amitabh’s family boasts of secular credentials. While his father married a Sikh, he himself is married to a Bengali (Jaya Bachchan). His son (Abhishek Bachchan) is married to a Kannadiga (Aishwarya Rai) and his daughter (Shweta Nanda) has tied the knot with a Punjabi (Nikhil Nanda).
When asked what could be done to break the caste barriers and change the situation in the country , he said: “Many attempts have been made… everywhere I have gone, where we have discussed this, we haven’t really come across a solution. It is something that we have inherited. Our social structure has been developed in this manner. We have to live with it. But I hope something can be done.”
Speaking on the film “Aarakshan”, which also stars Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Prateik Babbar and Manoj Bajpai in pivotal roles, Amitabh said director Jha helped him understand the subject quite a bit.
“I wasn’t as conversant as perhaps Prakashji about the subject because I never paid attention to it and never thought about it because I don’t believe in it. When I met Prakashji and he talked about the film, I came to know various aspects which were very convincingly and adequately explained to me during the making of the film,” said Amitabh, who has so far featured in about 180 movies.
July 20, 2011 at 8:57 AM
Amitabh Bachchan to watch Aarakshan with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar
By Bollywood Hungama News Network, July 20, 2011 – 11:44 IST
Amitabh Bachchan Amitabh Bachchan will be flying to Patna to watch his upcoming film Aarakshan with Mr. Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of Bihar. Nitish Kumar is an ardent fan of Big B and expressed his desire to watch the film with Bachchan and director Prakash Jha.
Nitish Kumar and Prakash Jha have been friends for a very long time. Jha had even campaigned for Nitish Kumar during the elections in Bihar. Jha invited Nitish Kumar for a special screening of Aarakshan when the latter came to visit a new restaurant at Prakash Jha’s shopping mall in Patna. Nitishji then told Prakash that he would watch the film only if Big B and Prakash both were present at the screening.
Jha conveyed the Chief Minister’s request to Amitabh Bachchan who immediately agreed to fly down to Patna for a day despite his hectic schedule. Big B’s travel arrangements to the city are currently being made.
Aarakshan revolves around caste-based reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. The film, which releases on August 12, also stars Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Manoj Bajpayee and Prateik.
July 23, 2011 at 7:51 AM
is the music here by SEL?
Like SEL–but a bit surprised –Jha and SEL not entirely from the same space …
“Reserve your love!”—like that phrase (&will probably put it into use)—hahaha
July 23, 2011 at 1:53 PM
Satyam,
I have a soft corner for Bajpayi as an actor. I feel he has his limitations but he shines if given a good role. He was undoubtedly great in Satya but one film where I find him simply awesome was Kaun. Brought so many ranges to his character in there. He moulded his character in such a way through this performance that he came across as irritating, helpful, sincere, geeky and foolish all at the same time.
I felt bad for him after he stopped getting good roles and appeared mostly in B-grade films from Karan Razdan and Ganesh Acharya where he had anything but a convincing role. Thankfully Prakash Jha pulled him back with Raajneeti and now Aarakshan.
What’s your opinion of him?
July 23, 2011 at 8:19 PM
completely share your thoughts on him.. loved him in Rajneeti even if it was a stereotypical part.. think he’s working well in Aarakshan too on the basis of the previews.
July 23, 2011 at 9:26 PM
He’ll definitly steal d show in Aarakshan but unfortunately the film is looking dull so far after watching its promos.The main trouble with this film is presence of Bachchan(please don’t kill me for this) coz if one analyses the characters portrayed by him since last decade,it’ll become evident that he has repeated such characters numerous times.Just look at same white beard,dresses,some people surrounding him and he delivering lectures on “NISHTHA”,”PRATHISTHA”,”ANUSHASAN” blah blah….So how many times are people going to tolerate him in same kind of roles/looks?Here need of the hour was to do some work on his looks but unfortunately that part has been ignored which looks like a matter of serious concern.The other main problem here is the presence of Saif in the leading role,who looks totally misfit for this type of role, though some work has really been done on his looks but that also hasn’t helped and hence the whole drama looks a flop show.ilm is looking dull so far after watching its promos.
July 24, 2011 at 2:30 AM
You can attribute Bachchan’s persona to it as he’s got such a magnificient and overbearing personality with his trademark baritone that makes him completely fit for roles where he’s supposed to play the most important character, which everyone looks forward to. A typical instance would be the Head of an institution or a committee, which is what he does here.. This factor apart, it’s not that he’s played the same characters over n over again lately. A Narayan Shankar of Mohabbatein is miles away from the one in Aarakshan. Accuse the former of being a Casteist and you’ll have your bum kicked to never get admission in any college in the country. LOL!
That apart, he’s had Paa, Aks, Khakee, Dev, Black, Sarkar where every role is different from the other. Check them out!
July 23, 2011 at 11:31 PM
Taran,
Find a good dentist and get your cavities fixed.Looks like there is an echo everytime you post. I am referring to dental cavities.If you need to have other cavities filled KJo/SRK can certainly oblige.
July 25, 2011 at 7:18 AM
Prakash Jha takes on UP govt
By: Subhash K Jha Date: 2011-07-25 Place: Mumbai
Wants CM to explain why his Aarakshan star Big B is banned from speaking on reservations in Lucknow
The deadlock over Amitabh Bachchan addressing students of Lucknow on job reservation has now reached a flashpoint.
The Big B has been barred from talking on the issue in any part of Uttar Pradesh, and his Aarakshan director-producer Prakash Jha is livid!
“We were first denied permission to hold our seminar on job reservation at the Lucknow University,” says Jha.
“We then hired the Indira Gandhi auditorium, but again we were denied permission to hold our meeting there, this time by the Lucknow Development Authority.”
In the film, Bachchan plays a principal of a college torn by job reservation issues. Jha is, therefore, determined his lead actor talk on the subject in UP.
As such, he has now sought the intervention of the state’s chief minister Mayawati in the matter.
“I want to ask her what the problem is. Does the UP administration fear a law and order situation because of Aarakshan?”
Jha is willing to show the film to Mayawati, if she so requests. “I’ve left a message with someone close to her. Now I’m waiting for her to revert,” he confirms.
July 30, 2011 at 4:05 AM
Only ve in thz movie is amitabh bachan & manoj bajpai,
i didnt understand y d hel prakash jha went with saif, even the content is good saif wil destroy, all depends on ab sr & manoj bajpai,
saif is another abhishek in serious r issue base,
August 2, 2011 at 9:00 AM
August 2, 2011 at 9:02 AM
August 2, 2011 at 7:39 PM
Somehow dont like Bachchans look and apparent “role” here.
Have already mentioned my politically incorrect views on Saifs “dalit” elsehwere!
Ironically Deepika seems to be doing alright here ….
BUt guess the scene stealer would be Manoj Bajpai –who along with Naseer and Nana happen to be the most criminally underutilised scene stealing actors in bollywood today.
btw liked Naseers v brief role in znmd and his trademark acerbic grumpiness…..
August 11, 2011 at 7:46 AM
Taran:
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/review/14307/index.html
August 11, 2011 at 7:49 AM
2 hrs 45 min, that’s long. Rajneeti was lengthy too. Filmmakers rarely have just this ‘courage’ these days!
August 11, 2011 at 10:02 AM
well taran has give 4* ..cannot be missed.