"Hook Ya Crook is not a copy of the Longest Yard" - Rensil

Rensil D'Silva who wrote one of the most original films ever Rang De Basanti is being accused of plagiarizing the screenplay of David Dhawan's Hook Ya Crook from the Adam Sandler film The Longest Yard.

But Rensil, currently editing his Kareena-Saif directorial debut, denies any similarity between his film and the Peter Segal-directed 2005 prison drama.

"Hook Ya Crook is a prison- break drama. So to that extent there'd be some similarity between Hook Ya Crook and any other prison-break drama. Having said that let me make it clear that my film isn't at all a copy of Longest Yard."

Rensil has been eager to visit Hyderabad to check out the prison set that David Dhawan has erected at the Ramuji Rao Studio.

"Unfortunately I'm so tied up with editing the canned footage of my film I can't take any time off," ends Rensil regretfully.

Lara's sexy item number in Luck

Ex-Miss Universe Lara Dutta started with a bang. But after almost six years in the industry it seems her co-contestant at the Mis India Pageant Priyanka Chopra has left her miles behind. By the way, the item number from one of her early days 'Aisa Jadoo Dala Re' made her quite famous. Of late she's been making more news for her break up with Kelly Dorji and on and off relationship with old friend Dino Morea. But apart from her dance performances and few films like recent special appearances in Shahrukh Khan's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, she has been churning out more news for her affairs, break-ups and patch-ups. But now she's trying to take the focus away from there by sizzling in movies like Blue and a brand new item mumber. She's shaking her body with hottie Imran Khan in a forthcoming film titled Luck directed by Soham Shah with whom she had acted earlier in Kaal. He happens to be a good friend of hers and Soham has been close to her for a while now. Luck is an action film, which introduces Kamal Hassan's daughter Shruti Hassan opposite Imran Khan alongside Sanjay Dutt, Mithun Chakraborty, Danny Denzongpa, Ravi Kissen and Rati Agnihotri in prominent roles. So when the idea of an item number came to his mind, he could not think of any other actress except the leggy beauty who once set the dance floor on fire with 'Aisa Jaadoo'. Let's see if this song gives a new dimension to Lara's career.

Movie Report - Ek Se Bure Do

Producer	Suresh Seth
Director	Tariq Khan
Writer	Tariq Khan
Lyrics	Panchhi Jalonvi
Release Date	10-Apr-2009

Ek Se Bure Do is a film directed by Tariq Khan, starring Arshad Warsi, Anita, Rajpal Yadav, Tussha & Govind Namdeo. In a way this is a comedy film but the other way it has a worst comedy by two great comedy icons. Arshad Warsi and Rajpal Yadav who are called the masters of comedy have done a job beneath their talent. Viewers will wonder how they both choosen such a film.

The film is an attempted comedy of errors as two crooks played by Arshad Warsi and Rajpal Yadav create chaos leading more trouble for the audience and the film's characters alike. The two heroines Anita Hassanandani and the other new comer Tussha are portrayed as dimwit babes whom our heroes shown flirting with. Govind Namdeo plays this stuffy uncle, re-appears in the role of a comical don. They're all after a map that leads to a mysterious treasure and try outwitting each other through the film.

Comedy includes the two buffoons robbing a bank only to find that it stores blood; a cop employing juniors to spy on his wife who he calls of "loose character"; and Yadav in a saree getting mistaken for a real lady.

Acting wise, Arshad Warsi is really a big disappointment. He has performed beneath his talent. It may be called his worst performance ever. Rajpal Yadav is wasted too. He also has acted below his talent. Anita Hassanandani with her over the top acting makes us hope she remains trapped in the idiot box and doesn't appear on the big screen. Tussha is just fine. The only actors who leave an impression are Vijay Raaz and Snehal Dhabi.

On the whole, Ek Se Bure Do is really a dull work by director Tariq Khan as well as by actors like Arshad Warsi and Rajpal Yadav. The film neither has a good script nor does it have a good plot. The technical aspects are sorely dated. This movie is just a total waste of time and money.

Is Lara Dutta insecure over Blue?

Is actress Lara Dutta insecure over Bollywood movie Blue is what industry insiders are wondering. She may be be playing the main female lead in the film but she seems to be feeling threatened and losing sleep over Katrina Kaif's special appearance in the film claim a few industry sources.

Sources are claiming that she wants to see the rushes of Blue and is requesting the makers for the same. Sources reveal, "Katrina was a last minute addition to the film reportedly on recommendation of good friend Akshay Kumar who is amongst the three male leads of the film along with Sanjay Dutt and Zayed Khan. Apart from a lavish song a few scenes too were shot on her. But as reports have began pouring out that her role has increased since she enjoys a bigger star status, Lara is feeling mighty insecure.”

“As it is the film is a full on male bonding film and Lara though playing a significant character is relegated to the back seat as compared to her male counterparts. As it is the entire first round of publicity for the film was hogged by Internationally famous pop singer Kylie Minogue. Lara's bikini clad pictures splashed all over the media too haven’t done the trick for her either.”

“Her last release Billu too saw the trio of Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone hogging all the publicity when in fact she had a bigger n better role in the film. She doesn't want the same to happen here over Katrina and Kylie. So in a way her feeling insecure is justified," sources add.

John Abraham and the 'Boys in Blue' gear up to play cricket

Cricket Fever has caught on big time thanks to the on-going IPL frenzy and hence it comes as no surprise to see some Bollywood filmmakers cashing in on the popularity of the sport which is almost a religion in India.

UTV Motion Pictures' forthcoming film Hook Ya Crook is one such film that has cricket as the backdrop. The film, directed by the David Dhawan, has John Abraham, Genelia D'souza, Kay Kay Menon and Shreyas Talpade in lead roles. The film is set in a prison and revolves around a cricket match played among the inmates.


With David at the helm of things, this one promises to be a complete entertainer. Also it would be interesting to see the fresh pairing of John and Genelia for the first time on the big screen. Majority of the film has been shot at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad. The supporting cast includes talented actors like Pavan Malhotra, Murli Sharma, Krishna and Sharad Kapoor (who would be seen making a comeback of sorts after a really long time).

John who impressed one and all with his football skills in Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal will showcase his cricket skills this time in Hook Ya Crook. If the buzz is to be believed, then John's good friend and captain of the Indian Cricket Team M.S. Dhoni is also slated to make a guest appearance in this film. With such an impressive star cast and an interesting premise, Hook Ya Crook is certainly among the most awaited films of this year.

Shilpa Shetty meets Matt Damon over a charity dinner in SA

The ongoing IPL match may have invoked mixed reactions and responses from one and all, but the fact remains that it has become a breeding ground for celeb-spotting. If the likes of Preity Zinta, SRK and gang weren't enough, then, here comes the Shilpa Shetty, who, alongwith her beau Raj Kundra, has now become co-owner of 'Rajasthan Royals'.

Well, the news just doesn't end there. Miss Shetty, besides being physically present at every match, also made it a point to rub shoulders with the likes of the hunky Hollywood superstar Matt Damon over a charity dinner in SA. For starters, Matt is actively involved in charitable work including 'The One Campaign' and 'H2O Africa Foundation' with his wife. One my also recall that it was only last year that Matt and Shilpa had their first public rendezvous at the third annual 'ONE X ONE' benefit Gala.

Will Miss Big Brother's men prove to be a 'Big Bother' to all the other IPL teams is something that only time can tell. Till then, while it's happy 'Goodwill Hunting' for Shilpa, it's happiest 'Celebrity Spotting' for her zillion fans worldwide!

HOT PREITY ZINTA

Dia became a toughie for Sanjay Gupta!

Call it method in the madness or getting into the skin of the character, Dia Mirza takes the cake for not only working hard on her character but also working out hard for it.

The dainty Dia had a strong urge to star in Sanjay Gupta's ACID FACTORY after hearing his mind blowing script but couldn't ask him because he didn't say anything about casting her. So, Dia utilized the time on hand and sought the opportunity to get ready to look fit for the role in more ways than one.

The actress underwent heavy duty physical training for 40 days to build biceps and strengthen muscles. Helping her in her regime were action director Tinu Verma and Arbaaz Khan's trainer Rakesh. Dia observed a military school like regime, waking up at 5.30 am, working with Tinu for about two hours daily in Film City, another two hours at home and then in the evening again for two more hours. The rigorous schedule went for three months and the after effects have not only satisfied Dia but also Sanjay himself.

Though Dia admits that she is a bit unconventional for the negative role, she overcame it and now looks the part.

Hmm... So now you can't call her just petite Miss Mirza, as now she is quite a toughie!

Aniston earned more than Jolie in 2008

Washington, April 13: Jennifer Aniston earned more than ex-husband Brad Pitt’s new partner Angelina Jolie last year.

While the former ‘Friends’ star is said to have earned a whopping 27 million dollars on the strength of films such as ‘Marley and Me’, the ‘Tomb Raider’ star took in 14 million dollars.

However, R and B singer Beyonce has beaten both the actresses by pocketing a staggering 80 million dollars last year, according to U.S. magazine Parade.

Her hubby, rapper Jay-Z, did even better - adding another 82 million dollars to his growing fortune, reports Contactmusic.

Meanwhile, actor/director Tyler Perry earned a whopping 125 million dollars and funnyman Will Ferrell’s bank account inflated by 31 million dollars.

SRK’s kids get special IPL chutti

As we put on our TV sets to watch the Indian Premiere League season 2’s matches of Shah Rukh Khan owned Kolkata Knight Riders we can also see Khan’s two kids Aryan (11) and Suhana (8) cheering for their team in South Africa. But it is learnt that they have been given special exemption to attend these matches and bunk the special classes of their school - Dhirubhai Ambani School. Our source reveals, “Last IPL, the King Khan’s children, especially son Aryan was a regular feature in most of the KKR matches. But since the matches were held in India it was easily possible for their superstar dad to take them to the match venues. This year as the venue has shifted to South Africa, it seemed difficult that SRK would manage to take them along. Also since their school was holding special classes delaying their summer vacation. But Shah Rukh apparently applied for a special permission and the school gave his kids five days of holiday as a special case.”

Deepika Padukone in the running for Arundhati remake

Telugu cinema history’s biggest super hit Arundhati is all set to be made into Hindi now by its original makers. Recently news was out that the makers had approached Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi actress Anushka Sharma but the deal couldn’t get through since she was still tied up under her mentors Yash Raj three film contract. Now the makers, it is learnt have approached Deepika Padukone for the same role.

Sources reveal, “After Anushka Sharma another name being considered was the name of the original heroine from the Telugu blockbuster hit whose name is also Anushka. But then considering the fact that she is still an unknown face in Bollywood they decided to opt for a more popular young actress in Bollywood who doesn’t have a set image and the Om Shanti Om girl’s name cropped up. The discussions are on but nothing has been finalized as of yet though.”

But another industry insider reveals, “With Sonu Sood more or less finalized in the most powerful male character’s role in the film it seems less likely that Deepika would agree to be a part of the film. Considering the fact that he is still not a Bollywood A list star, Deepika might have her apprehensions in working in such a project. While the makers chose to remain adamant on their choice of Sonu Sood (he also played the main villain in the Telugu original) it won’t be easy for them to find a big heroine for their ambitious project.”

We just hope better sense prevails for Deepika and she agrees to do the film. The project appears far better than her Chandni Chowk To China.

Source: .realbollywood.com

Nysa - Daughter of Kajol and Ajay Devgan

She was the happiest with U, Me aur Hum.. I am talking about my dear darling daughter, Nysa. I will recount how she thought it was a picnic when we were shooting on the cruise.

I don’t think Nysa has seen such wide open spaces, with small alleys and passageways. She thought the ship was one big playground. All day long she would run. You know how little kids are.. a bundle of energy. However, this little girl was a bundle of frenetic energy.

She had two children to play with. And their favourite game was hide n seek. With so many nooks and crannies around, Nysa and her partners in crime, had a blast.

Putting her to sleep in the afternoons became a cakewalk. Usually it takes me time to put her to sleep, but on the ship, as soon as she rested her head on the pillow, she would go “thap”.. fast asleep.

Looking after kids is the best workout for moms. Running after her all day long kept me in shape. I could not work out in the gym but I did not put on a single kg. She kept me on my toes.

As far as the food goes, Nysa loves bhindi. If there is bhindi she would eat her food in peace. So there we were ordering, “fried okhra with just salt and turmeric, please”

After we completed our shooting on the ship, we began our shooting schedule in Mumbai. Now this did not go well with Nysa. She would keep asking, “can we go back to the cruise ship to shoot?” A very sad 5 year old soon realized that the picnic was over.

Govinda's Daughter Narmada To be Launched as a Leading Lady This Year

2008 has been a decisive year for Govinda. After working with Mani Ratnam he has decided to work only with directors of a certain caliber.

And now in 2009 Govinda has far more to look forward to. His daughter Narmada will finally be facing the camera and that too with a home production.

Confirming these radical developments in his life Govinda says, "After weighing all the pros and cons I decided I'm the best person to do the needful. I don't want anyone else no matter how well-meaning to take the credit for launching my daughter. So yes, Narmada will finally be launched anytime in 2009."

The director to do the needful for Govinda will be finalized in the next couple of weeks. Those on Govinda's wish-list are Nikhil Advani and Shaad Ali.

"Ideally," says the anxious father, "I'd have liked Narmada to be launched by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. He's among our best. But since that's not possible we're looking at some other names. My daughter has to be directed by someone who has a vision and an aesthetic sense and also respects the work that I do."

Continuing to speak on his favourite subject Govinda says, "I've struggled all my life and I continue to do so. All kinds of strange stories are planted about me. The question is not, why. But by whom? Narmada has also faced very harsh and hurtful incidents (she was involved in a terrible road accident) so early in her life. I feel today she's emotionally equipped to face the camera."

While focusing on his daughter's career Govinda has also taken some hard career decisions for himself. "Six of my releases are ready. But now, after my so-called comeback I've again stopped signing new films. After working with Mani Ratnam I can't go back to doing chalta hai roles in routine films. I'll work only with directors who are as organized and disciplined as Mani Ratnam. He's clear-headed about everything."

Shooting in the jungles wasn't easy. "But it wasn't so tough either," laughs Govinda. "I've spent my childhood in a village. So I'm used to being cut off from city life. Shooting in the jungles with Mani, Abhishek and Aishwarya was very invigorating."

Says Govinda, "For now I'm saying no to all future assignments until I get something comparable with Mani's film. But I'm in negotiation with Ravi Chopra for his next film after Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai which is now complete and being released in February, and for the sequel to Partner with Salman and David. But for now, I'm focusing on giving my daughter the best career launch any father can give."

Shilpa Shetty’s Halla Bol for her Rajasthan Royals

With IPL second season coming closer, the IPL frenzy has begun and the celebrity stakeholders are leaving no stone unturned to campaign for their teams. IPL’s latest entrant, starlet Shilpa Shetty who has bought a stake in the Rajasthan Royals team with the help of beau Raj Kundra, is now going the extra mile to woo more fans for her team. The shapely beauty is going to use her sex appeal to cheer her team on in a promotional video directed by Ken Ghosh, with music by Anand Raj Anand.

The song will be titled Halla Bol, reveals Anand Raj Anand. He states, “I am extremely excited about the video. I have had been family friends with both Raj Kundra and Shilpa for quiet a long time now, in fact Shilpa and I have been on good terms for over fifteen years. When I got to know that she bought a stake in the Rajasthan Royals, I called her up and told her that I would love do the music for the promotional video. We discussed it and Shilpa was more than happy.”

Revealing further, the maverick music director adds, ” The Halla Bol number is based on Rajasthani folk songs. The composition contains orchestral sounds as well as fast beats. Shilpa is really one of the best dancers we have and, keeping that in mind, I created this composition. The song has folk included in it as well as a modern touch. It is a very soothing song which will be liked by people.”

Sharing some of its lyrics, Anand hums, “Phir wohi lalkar hai… phir wohi takraar hai … halla bol’.”

“I have completed the music and will be giving it to Shilpa today.” Anand concludes.

Source: realbollywood.com

Kajol and Karan Johar in a fight?

Shah Rukh Khan – Kajol starrer My Name Is Khan directed by their best buddy Karan Johar seems to be spoiling relations between Kajol and KJo.

A source reveals, “One big schedule of the film has already been wrapped up in the USA before SRK’s shoulder surgery. Now Karan is busy shooting some portions of the film in Mumbai’s Borivili area with Slumdog Millionaire child actor Tanay Chheda who plays SRK’s childhood part. Post SRK coming back from his IPL 2 commitments from South Africa there is yet another schedule being planned for the US. But Kajol it seems is not too keen on shooting out of India given that she has to leave her daughter Nysa back home now that she’s going to school. So while the shooting in Mumbai in June coincided with Nysa’s school days, Kajol had no problems. But Karan also has to shoot some more sequences in New York, which Kajol is refusing to oblige with. She was informed that there would be only one schedule in the US, which she’d agreed to. But now since Karan wants to go back for whatever reasons, Kajol is adamant and just won’t.”

Another insider reveals, “Karan expects that his good friend understands his problem but Kajol wants him to shoot these portions in Mumbai itself on specially built sets. But Karan being Karan he just doesn’t want to compromise on such things. So now that’s a deadlock even the King Khan might not be able to resolve.”

Source: realbollywood.com

Barack Obama invites Middle East leaders to Washington

Barack Obama has called on Israel and the Palestinians to “step back from the abyss” and renewed his support for the creation of a Palestinian state.

Deepening his direct role in reviving stalled Middle East peace efforts, Mr Obama met King Abdullah on Tuesday and invited Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, the Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas and the Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak for separate talks by early June.

The US president reassured King Abdullah of his commitment to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict despite reluctance by Mr Netanyahu’s new right-leaning government to support the idea of eventual Palestinian statehood.

In contrast to the more hands-off policy of George W Bush, Mr Obama reasserted his pledge to “deeply engage” in Arab-Israeli peace diplomacy.

“What we have to do is step back from the abyss,” he told reporters after meeting the Jordanian king at the White House.

He said a “sense of urgency” was needed to resuscitate the peace process and said he expected “gestures of good faith” to be made in coming months.

“I agree that we can’t talk forever, that at some point steps have to be taken so that people can see progress on the ground. And that will be something that we will expect to take place in the coming months,” Mr Obama said.

He said he was a “strong supporter of a two-state solution”, adding: “I have articulated that publicly, and I will articulate that privately. And I think that there are a lot of Israelis who also believe in a two-state solution.”

Source: telegraph.co.uk

Priyanka, Shahid’s relationship on the rock!

Shahid Kapur who is hitting the headlines for his most publicized relationship with Priyanka Chopra is making news again for his break-up. It is known that he had a fall out with Piggy Chops due to her extrovert and party nature. He used to induce his principles on Priyanka which she doesn’t like at all. Therefore Shahid overprotective nature is assumed to have created hole in their relationship.Shahid’s birthday party marked the beginning of their tussle where Priyanka Chopra was totally absorbed in her vodka despite Shahid’s objection. Shahid, a staunch follower of Radhasoami is not in the favor of drinking and partying.It is even said that Shahid’s forceful act on Priyanka to follow vegetarian and perform yoga is the cause of Priyanka’s ill health.Whatever, the duo is trying hard to keep their differences under wrap as their much awaited flick ‘Kaminay’ is about to hit the theatre. Post the release of the film the actual picture of their relationship will be known. Now they are trying to stick together.

Movie Review of Dashavatar

By all odds, Kamal Haasan has been universally acclaimed as ‘Jacks of all trades in tinsel town. Watching this fantastic actor over on a show of grandeur isn’t something off-the-wall. On the dots, there doesn’t need to be an illustration for his record-breaking attempts for that would be a cliché. But, donning 10 roles isn’t a history-breaking record of this. If you’re an ardent buff of World Cinema, then you wouldn’t have missed the flicks made in ancient times. Who can forget Rolf Leslie who appeared in 27 different looks in LIFE STORY OF QUEEN VICTORIA (1913)? On the pars, Lupino Lane donning 24 roles in Only Me (1929), Joseph Henabery – with 14 characterizations in BIRTH OF A NATION. More than all, Robert Hirsch picking 11 roles in NO QUESTIONS ON SATURDAY will remain cherished in the pages of World Cinema forever. Certainly, that isn’t an end to the list of actors who’ve created history with multiple roles. It keeps going on and on including Eddie Murphy and our own Sivaji Ganeshan.
Well, looks like it would turn to be an exclusive rather than a review. Let’s put a full stop and get on scrutinizing Kamal Haasan’s brilliant attempt with 10 different roles.
You can whole-heartedly appreciate this man who has stridden marking his best efforts. Nevertheless, not do all 10 roles impress you. For sure, the characterization of Fletcher – Ex CIA Agent was really an outstanding piece of recital. Watch these portions; he has distinctly picked the mannerisms of ALGORE, United States’ most stylish politician.
On the other side, what’s really disappointing with this film? Again, it’s all about Kamal Haasan’s 11th Avatar – Screenwriter. You’ve to be more noetic to grasp what’s actually being presented on the screens, especially for the first 30mins. Looks like both screenwriter and filmmaker were both perplexed in designing particular sequences. Joining the list of absurd factors is unwanted characterizations and situations that coalesces them.
The film opens at the backdrops of 12th century where Vishnu Rangaraja Nambi (Kamal Haasan) is thrown into deep oceans tied to God’s statue. The phase shifts over to 21st Century where you notice Govind (Kamal Haasan), an intellectual scientist excogitating a bombastic biological weapon in the form of a computer chip. When US President Bush (Again played by Kamal Haasan) are appreciating his feat, there happens to be another team trying to grab it illegally. Of course, they’re ready to pay Govind figure of 100Crores. Here begins the ride of roller-coaster thriller where Govind has to get back the Chip that’s been accidentally couriered by himself to Chennai. Rest of the film is all about what happens in next 4 days before horrible accident of Tsunami had grudged thousands of lives…
As mentioned earlier, Kamal Haasan deserves appreciations for his adeptness in endeavoring through the speculative project. But, things would’ve been better if more prominence was thrown on narrative aspects too. Well, that’s the problem when it comes to dubbing films as the tastes vary from Kollywood to Bollywood. That includes comedy tracks too… However, Kamal’s smart move is so blatant with unparallel intonation of RAW Investigation Officer. Surely, you’ll have lots of grand humorous stuffs from him.
When it comes to other star-casts, Asin’s characterization as a Brahmin girl is really ludicrous. This missy had spelled a glorious performance in her debut ‘Ghajini’ and this doesn’t actually elevate anything in Asin’s graph… Mallika Sherawat steals the show with her alluring and sleek looks steals the show. Don’t miss her stunning dance in ‘Black Ya White’. Jayapradha hardly appears not more than 15mins and she could’ve been depicted with yet more importance.
Technically, the film goes extraordinarily sumptuous. In particular, the opulent visuals during climax part are mind-boggling. Ravi Varman’s cinematography is quite impressive but unneeded Jimmy-jib shots really annoy the most. Musical score by Himesh Reshammiya goes middling on certain numbers. The song that has appraisals on Kamal Haasan during final credits is commendable while ‘Mukundha’ is feet-tapping.
On the whole, Dashavatar is all about experiencing a passable show for 185mins brimmed with excellent factors that go in hand with more absurdities too. It would’ve been better if Kamal Haasan had attempted for a separate version for Bollywood rather than merely dubbing it. In box office, the film has little chances of sustaining for few weeks as there aren’t any big releases on the race.

Lovebirds Abishek and Ash get to fly the coop!

Looks like Abishek Bachchan and wife Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan will finally be doing what all normal couples do – celebrate their second anniversary “together”. The highly watched couple celebrated their first wedding anniversary on the sets of Tarun Mansukhani’s Dostana, which had Abhishek in the lead role.
While it seemed that history would repeat itself this year too – Ash and Abhi were hard at work with Mani Ratnam’s Raavan – fate intervened. Ratnam’s health scare ended up pushing their schedules to a later date and the duo were left with free time on their hands. Making full use of the unexpected holiday, the couple is slated to fly off to a secret destination and recapture the romance on their anniversary. The popular couple was married on April 20, 2007, amidst paparazzi frenzy.

Source: indiaglitz.com

Bips and her hair tactics!

Bipasha Basu is an actress who knows how to glam it up or tone it down depending on the demands of her role. This time the star is ready to sport a new hairstyle for Rohit Shetty's All The Best. She plays Ajay Devgan's wife, an attractive and sexy gym instructor, in the movie. Bips confirms that after going for short chic hairstyles, she’s back to her pre-Jism days – long hair!
Bipasha, who reveals that she prefers to control how her hairstyles look, has also highlighted her hair in rich brown hues. But she has done it in such a way that it doesn’t clash with the black hair she shows off in her shampoo ads. So watch out for the leggy lass to unveil her luxurious tresses again. Oh, and of course, beau John Abraham has given his whole hearted approval to her new looks.

Source: indiaglitz.com/

New clothes for the IPL boys

Something's different in the second edition of the Indian Premiere League, and we're not just referring to South Africa. There are new members, new team owners, new captains and a whole new wardrobe for everyone.
Jerseys have changed - some have added new colour and some new collars - and eveningwear and leisure dressing has been added to wardrobes. Mohali team co-owner Preity Zinta turned designer and revamped the jerseys of her team.
The shades of red are brighter and silver has replaced gray. Sajid Shamin, executive director marketing and product, Reebok India, (that worked with Preity on the design) says, "Red signifies confidence and energy with subtle mix of silver to keep the style quotient high.
" Shah Rukh Khan's IPL team has an all-new design. There is more gold and the logo has been highlighted differently.
The actor was closely involved in the redesign with designer Manish Malhotra. "I have added more stripes on sleeves and have given some accessories like backpacks and scarves to make the whole styling edgy.
There is also leisure and evening wear where we have incorporated grays and whites to make them stylish and look cool for parties," says Malhotra. The teams from Rajasthan and Hyderabad have also made a few changes in their garments.
Rajiv Mehta, CEO Puma, says, "We've gotten rid of collars for both the teams and for Hyderabad's team we have a new midnight blue jersey." Though there's no new uniform for the Chennai team, they do have custom made evening wear.
Vijay Chako, the spokesperson says, "This year the evening wear has been styled by Peter England for the team." Rajasthan's team has new evening and day wear in their wardrobe.
Mehta says, "Shilpa's suggestion to our design team was that the team should look cool, we agreed and designed on those lines." Designer Kunal Rawal, who has designed active daywear and eveningwear for the Rajasthan team, says, "For active daywear I have designed an off white T-shirt with deer insignia suggesting a safari look as they are in South Africa.
To top it off we have given an off white jacket with emblems of Indian battalions as buttons. For eveningwear we have a bandhgala in charcoal black.
" For Delhi's boys there is no more black and for Mumbai there's a dash of red. Tushar Goculdas, director marketing and sales, Adidas India, says, "The Mumbai team have struck to their original colour but have added a hint of red to signify the passion and vigour of Mumbai.

Prince Charles book to stress harmony with nature

Britain's Prince Charles will write a book arguing that the world's pursuit of economic growth and technology has become "dangerously disconnected" from nature, publishers said on Monday.
The book, to be titled "Harmony," is due to be released in 2010, publisher HarperCollins, part of Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, said in a statement. A picture book version for children is to be published in 2011.
"I believe that true 'sustainability' depends fundamentally upon us shifting our perception and widening our focus, so that we understand, again, that we have a sacred duty of stewardship of the natural order of things," Prince Charles, 60, said in the statement.
"In some of our actions we now behave as if we were 'masters of nature' and, in others, as mere bystanders," he said, adding that society needed to rediscover a sense of harmony, of being a part of nature.
Charles, heir to the British throne, has long supported environmental causes, including pushing for urgent measures to combat climate change.

IPL 2 live, ipl 2 match schedules, Indian premier league

The first semifinal of the 37-day tournament will be played in Centurion, Pretoria May 22.
Wanderers, Johannesburg will host the second semifinal May 23 and also the final and the closing ceremony May 24.

Following is this year’s IPL schedule:

April 18: Opening ceremony followed by Rajasthan Royals v Royal Challengers and Mumbai Indians v Chennai Super Kings (Newlands, Cape Town)

April 19: Kolkata Knight Riders v Deccan Chargers (Newlands, Cape Town); Delhi Daredevils vs Kings XI Punjab (Newlands, Cape Town)

April 20: Royal Challengers v Chennai Super Kings (St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth)

April 21: Rajasthan Royals v Mumbai Indians (Kingsmead, Durban); Kolkata Knight Riders v Kings XI Punjab (Kingsmead, Durban)

April 22: Delhi Daredevils v Chennai Super Kings (Kingsmead, Durban); Royal Challengers v Deccan Chargers (Newlands, Cape Town)

April 23: Kolkata Knight Riders v Rajasthan Royals (St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth)

April 24: Kings XI Punjab v Royal Challengers (Wanderers, Johannesburg)

April 25: Kolkata Knight Riders v Chennai Super Kings (Newlands, Cape Town); Deccan Chargers v Mumbai Indians (Kingsmead, Durban)

April 26: Rajasthan Royals v Kings XI Punjab (Newlands, Cape Town); Royal Challengers v Delhi Daredevils (St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth)

April 27: Kolkata Knight Riders v Mumbai Indians (Newlands, Cape Town); Chennai Super Kings v Deccan Chargers (Kingsmead, Durban)

April 28: Delhi Daredevils v Rajasthan Royals (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria)

April 29: Mumbai Indians v Kings XI Punjab (Kingsmead, Durban); Kolkata Knight Riders v Royal Challengers (Kingsmead, Durban)

April 30: Delhi Daredevils v Deccan Chargers (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria); Rajasthan Royals v Chennai Super Kings (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria)

May 1: Royal Challengers v Kings XI Punjab (Buffalo Park, East London); Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders (Kingsmead, Durban)

May 2: Rajasthan Royals v Deccan Chargers (Wanderers, Johannesburg); Chennai Super Kings v Delhi Daredevils (St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth)

May 3: Mumbai Indians v Royal Challengers (Kingsmead, Durban); Kings XI Punjab v Kolkata Knight Riders (Buffalo Park, East London)

May 4: Deccan Chargers v Chennai Super Kings (St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth)

May 5: Delhi Daredevils v Kolkata Knight Riders (Kingsmead, Durban); Kings XI Punjab v Rajasthan Royals (Kingsmead, Durban)

May 6: Mumbai Indians v Deccan Chargers (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria)

May 7: Kings XI Punjab v Chennai Super Kings (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria); Royal Challengers v Rajasthan Royals (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria)

May 8: Delhi Daredevils v Mumbai Indians (Buffalo Park, East London)

May 9: Deccan Chargers v Kings XI Punjab (Outsurance Park, Bloemfontein); Chennai Super Kings v Rajasthan Royals (St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth)

May 10: Kolkata Knight Riders v Delhi Daredevils (Buffalo Park, East London); Royal Challengers v Mumbai Indians (Wanderers, Johannesburg)

May 11: Deccan Chargers vs Rajasthan Royals (Outsurance Park, Bloemfontein)

May 12: Royal Challengers vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria); Kings XI Punjab v Mumbai Indians (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria)

May 13: Deccan Chargers v Delhi Daredevils (Kingsmead, Durban)

May 14: Mumbai Indians v Rajasthan Royals (Kingsmead, Durban); Chennai Super Kings v Royal Challengers (Kingsmead, Durban)

May 15: Kings XI Punjab v Delhi Daredevils (De Beers Diamond, Oval, Kimberley)

May 16: Chennai Super Kings v Mumbai Indians (Wanderers, Johannesburg); Deccan Chargers v Kolkata Knight Riders (St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth)

May 17: Rajasthan Royals v Delhi Daredevils (De Beers Diamond Oval, Kimberley); Kings XI Punjab v Deccan Chargers (Wanderers, Johannesburg)

May 18: Chennai Super Kings v Kolkata Knight Riders (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria)

May 19: Delhi Daredevils v Royal Challengers (Wanderers, Johannesburg)

May 20: Chennai Super Kings v Kings XI Punjab (Kingsmead, Durban); Rajasthan Royals v Kolkata Knight Riders (Kingsmead, Durban)

May 21: Deccan Chargers v Royal Challengers (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria); Mumbai Indians v Delhi Daredevils (Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria)

May 22: Semifinal 1 at Supersport Park, Centurion, Pretoria

May 23: Semifinal 2 at Wanderers, Johannesburg

May 24: Closing ceremony followed by final (Wanderers, Johannesburg).
source: IANS

India launches spy, education satellites

Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh), April 20 (IANS) India's all-weather defence surveillance satellite, radar imaging satellite (RISAT-2), and the micro education satellite Anusat were successfully placed into orbit by an Indian rocket that flew from the spaceport here early Monday morning.
At 6.45 a.m., the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) soared up in the sky, defying gravity with a deep throated growl, with 340 kg of luggage - 300-kg RISAT and 40-kg Anusat.
After 17 minutes into the flight guided by ISRO developed navigation systems, the 229-tonne rocket slung RISAT at 540-km above the earth and Anusat 10-km futher into its intended cicular orbit two mintues later.
Immediately after their ejections, the Spacecraft Control Centre at Bangalore with the help of ISTRAC network of stations at Bangalore, Lucknow, Mauritius and in other places monitored the satellite's health.
ISRO chairman G. Madhavan Nair said: 'This is a fantastic New Year gift for the country. We are happy. Performance of the vehicle is precise. There is no deviation to the planned flight path. Both the spacecraft being delivered into the orbit.'
He also said that 2009 is going to be the year of fireworks for ISRO. 'We ll be launching resourcesat, oceansat and others. Indigenously developed cryogenic engine will be inducted this year.'

Source: yahoo.com

Physicist Stephen Hawking admitted to hospital

Physicist Stephen Hawking, the author of "A Brief History of Time" who is almost completely paralysed by motor neurone disease, has been urgently admitted to hospital, Cambridge University said on Monday.

Hawking, 67, was taken by ambulance to a local hospital in Cambridge, where he teaches as a professor of applied mathematics and theoretical physics.
"Professor Hawking is very ill and has been taken by ambulance to Addenbrooke's Hospital," the university said.
A university spokesman said his condition was described as comfortable and that he would be kept in hospital overnight.
Hawking, who is only able to speak through a computer-generated voice synthesiser, had been ill for a couple of weeks, with his condition deteriorating since he returned from a trip to the United States at the weekend, a source said.
He has previously been treated for pneumonia and the source said that it appeared his latest illness was related to a chest infection, although he stressed there was no diagnosis yet.
The head of Cambridge's applied mathematics department expressed hope that Hawking would recover.
"Professor Hawking is a remarkable colleague," said Peter Haynes. "We all hope he will be amongst us again soon."
GLOBAL RENOWN
Hawking is renowned for his work on black holes, cosmology and quantum gravity. He achieved global recognition with the publication in 1988 of "A Brief History of Time," an account of the origins of the universe.
Hawking began suffering from motor neurone disease in his early 20s but went on to establish himself as one of the world's leading scientific authorities, and is constantly called upon to comment on new discoveries in astronomy and physics.
Since 1974, the Oxford-educated scientist has worked on marrying the two cornerstones of modern physics -- Albert Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, which concerns gravity and large-scale phenomena, and quantum theory, which covers subatomic particles.
As a result of his research, Hawking proposed a model of the universe based on two concepts of time: "real time," or time as human beings experience it, and "imaginary time," the time on which the world may really run.
"The universe is self-contained, and without boundary, in imaginary time. However, in real time, the universe will appear to begin at the Big Bang (the explosion thought to be at the origin of the universe)," Hawking has said.
"The laws of physics will hold everywhere, so it is not necessary to believe that God intervened to set it going."
Motor neurone disease is a catch-all name for a family of muscle wasting diseases that includes amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease in the United States.
Although Hawking is virtually paralyzed, he has a slow-progressive form of the disease.
Hawking, who is due to step down as Cambridge's Lucasian professor of Mathematics when he turns 70, has been married twice. He has three children by his first wife.