Expectation from the film Pyar Impossible.

Expectation from the film Pyar Impossible.

The viewers of bollywood films have a lot of expectation from the film Pyar Impossible. The film had been written and produced by Uday Chopra.

It has been an adaptation of the British film Notting Hill, in which Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant gave brilliant performances. The main reason for the attraction to the crowds is obviously the presence of Priyanka Chopra.

In this film Priyanka Chopra had acted opposite Uday Chopra and Dino Morea. Priyanka Chopra had given hits after hits in the last 2 years and had been used by different directors including Rakesh Roshan, Madhur Bhandarkar, etc. So her presence had added colour in the film.

The story of the film was related to the love story of Priyanka Chopra with her lover boy. The other factor which had raised a lot of curiousity in the minds of the viewers which include the presence of the director Jugal Hansraj, who tried to direct the film in his own style.

It had been produced by Uday Chopra and the music had been composed by Salim Sulaiman. The only worry is in terms of viewers indifference towards love stories. If we look back at the hit films in the last 3 years, we will find that most of them having stories involving laughter had done better business than the other ones.

Munnabhai MBBS, No Entry, did great business while Love Story 2050, Chandni Chowk To China did very average business. It is difficult to predict the success of the film. If it does moderate business it is more than enough.

Will Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani storm bollywood?

Will Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani storm bollywood?

The viewers of bollywood films wonder whether Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani will storm bollywood films or not. On one hand this is one of the big releases of Ranbir Kapoor who has a challenge of carrying the great legacy of Raj Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor forward. It is also a big challenge of Katrina Kaif who had just given hits after hits in the last year.

Raj Kumar Santoshi had come up with a comedy story. Whenever the viewers had thought about Raj Kumar Santoshi they had always thought about action films like Gadar or Damini or Pukar. They also had thought about romantic stories.

But in this film Raj Kumar Santoshi had made Ranbir Kapoor play the role of a depressed lover boy who had crossed all the roads possible to reach his mission which was the affair with Katrina Kaif. The love story was full of crazyness of Ranbir Kapoor towards Katrina Kaif.

The other actors and actresses who had contributed in the film included Darshan Jariwala, Asrani, Salman Khan in a special appearance, Govind Namdeo, Smita Jaykar, Navneet Nishan and others. Most of the performers had given their natural performance.

The music of the film was composed by Pritam. The songs will be impressive. Ranbir Kapoor’s image of lover boy that he carried forward from Sawaariya to Bacchna Aye Haseeno will continue in Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani.

The viewers expect the film to rock the theatres in Diwali. The other reason the teenagers are interested is because newcomers like Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan can create competition for seasoned stars like Salman Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar and others who had been ruling the industry for the last 15 years. The film has all the ingredients of becoming hit.

Review of What's your Rashi.

Review of What’s your Rashi.

Priyanka Chopra had appeared again in the new film What’s Your Rashi opposite Harman Baweja this year. The film was based on the Gujrati Novel “Kimbal Ravenswood” written by Madhu Rye.

Harman Baweja had played the role of a Gujrati person who had to find a dream girl within 10 days to save his family from an unforeseen harm which had been predicted. The task was difficult as such. She met twelve different girls who had twelve different sun signs or rashis.

Priyanka Chopra played the role of all the twelve girls having the different sun signs. The girls that Harman Baweja met included Anjali, who had Aries sun shine, Vishakha, who had Tauras sun shine, Kajal, who had Gemini sun shine, Hansa who had Cancer sun shine, Mallika who had Leo sun shine, Pooja, who had Virgo sun shine, Rajni, who had Libra sunshine, Nandini, who had scorpio sun shine, Bhavna, who had Saggitarius sun shine, Jhankhana, who had Capricorn sun shine, Sanjana, who had Aquarius sun shine and Chandrika who had Pieces sun shine.

Priyanka Chopra was brilliant in all those roles. Although the story appeared to be very serious in nature it ended up being absolutely hilarious. Harman Baweja also did well, but his resemblance with Hrithik Roshan was still reflected in this films. Unless he could create his own identity his effort would never get right acknowledgement.

The film had been directed Ashutosh Gowarikar. He used Anjan Srivastava, Rajesh Vivek and the other actors to perfection. The song “bhikri bhikri” had already become popular. But the film does not have the expectation of becoming a grand it like that of Lagaan or Jodha Akbar.

As long as the cost of production of the film is recovered Ashutosh Gowarikar’s effort will be justified.

Happy birthday to Dev Anand

Happy birthday to Dev Anand.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to evergreen star Dev Anand. Along with Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar he was one of the most popular stars of bollywood films of the 50s and 60s.

He acted opposite most of the leading actresses of the 50s and 60s and most of his romantic of the golden age remained hits. Some of his successful films include Taxi-Driver with Nalini Jayant, CID with Wahida Rehman, Kalapani with Madhubala, Kalabazar with Wahida Rehman, etc. His production banner Navketan was the pivot around which his brothers Chetan Anand and Vijay Anand contributed a lot.

In the 60s, Dev Anand acted in successful films like Guide, Jewel Thief, etc. Guide was based on the epic literature of RK Narayan. Dev Anand received the filmfare award for the best actor for his performance in the film Guide. In Jewel Thief he successfully acted in the role of a detective to combat the group of burglers led by Ashok Kumar.

From the 70s Dev Anand started directing his films including Prem Pujari, Hare Rama Hare Krishna, etc. Even as a director he showed his class. As an actor he was known for his stylish andaz as he emulated the mannerisms of Hollywood actor Gregory Pegg. Another factor for which Dev Anand is still remembered is the quality music given in his films.

Composers like SD Burman, Shankar Jaikishan, Jaidev, OP Nayyar, gave everlasting music with Rafi’s songs like “tujhe jeevan ki dorme”, “khoya khoya chand”, “tere mere sapne”, “hum bekhudi me tumko bulaye” still remaining immortal. Even Kishore’s songs “jeevan ki safar me rahi”, “gata rahe mera dil”, “phulon ke rang se” had not lost their colour even today.

Dev Anand received Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his excellence in Indian cinema. The viewers expect him to continue the great work that he started 60 years ago.

Happy birthday to melody-queen Lata Mangeshkar.

Happy birthday to melody-queen Lata Mangeshkar.

The listeners of music in India and abroad wish happy birthday to Lata Mangeshkar, the melody queen on 27th September, 2009. She had turned 80 years of age.

Starting her journey from the early 40s, Lataji created an impression with the songs “ayega anewala” in the film Mahal, composed by Khemchand Prakash. The songs of the horror film were picturised on Madhubala who later became a legendary star of bollywood films. Lata faced the competition from eminent singers Noorjahan, Suraiya, Shamshad Begum, Geeta Dutt, Asha Bhosle, Rajkumari, and others and emerged victorious in the 50s and 60s.

Her sweetness of voice compelled composers to give the best tunes ever created in Indian film history. Along with Rafi, Lata had the record of singing songs of almost all the composers of the golden age. Everlasting gems of Lata include “tu jaha jahan chalega” composed by Madanmohan, “duniya kare sawal” composed by Roshan, “hume tum mil gaye humdum” composed by Shankar Jaikishan, “phir teri kahani yaad aye” composed by Naushad, “ajare pardesi” composed by Salil Choudhury, “allah tero naam” composed by Jaidev, “piya tose naina lage re” composed by SD Burman, to name a few.

Lata had sung more than 30000 songs during her singing career which was more than 65 years long. She had sung for Madhubala, Meena Kumari, Nargis, Wahida Rehman, on one hand, and did sing for the new actresses of the 90s namely Madhuri Dixit, Juhi Chawla, etc. Her patriotic songs “aye mere watan ke logon” brought tears even in the eyes of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

Lata Mangeshkar sung songs in more than 15 regional languages including Marathi, Bengali and others. She played a very significant role in Bengali film industry in the world of playback singing. Some of her hit songs included “jago” in Raj Kapoor’s film Ekdin Ratre, composed by Salil Choudhury, “aaj mon cheyeche ami hariye jabo” composed by Sudhin Dasgupta in Uttam Kumar’s film Shankhabela, to name a few.
Singers of the present age consider Lataji as their idol and try to emulate her style. The listeners of music all over the world expect Lataji to continue the great work that she started 70 years ago. Her works should be restored.

The nation remembers Feroz Khan on his birthday.

The nation remembers Feroz Khan on his birthday.

The nation remembers Feroz Khan on his birthday on 25th September, 2009. He had died this year and the nation had missed the style icon very badly. Feroz Khan started his career with romantic films.

His performance in the film Aarzoo, in the mid-60s with Rajender Kumar and Sadhna is well remembered even today. While Feroz Khan’s performance in romantic films like Ek Sapera Aur Ek Lutera was well appreciated, his skills in action films like Aadmi Aur Insaan, Mela, etc., created a separate identity for himself.

From the 70s, Feroz Khan got involved in production and direction of his own films and created gold in the next 20 years. His film Apradh with Mumtaz became super hit. His film Dharmatma with Hema Malini and Rekha created history in the mid-70s. It was modeled in the lines of Hollywood film Godfather where Marlon Brando played the lead role.

Feroz Khan’s action style mesmerized the viewers. He gave a stylish performance in the film Khote Sikke and Kala Sona. His Robinhood like image haunted the viewers. His style of riding cars, riding horses and jugglery with the guns showed touch of Hollywood actors. With the advent of action films in the mid-70s with the emerging of Amitabh Bacchan in the bollywood scenario, Feroz Khan’s demand in action film increased and increased.

His film Qurbani with Vinod Khanna and Zeenat Aman created storms in the early 80s. He gave a new defintition to action films with the film Jaanbaaz, where he protested against the trade of LSD and other Narcotic drugs. Villains like Raza Murad and Shakti Kapoor gained prominence from Feroz Khan’s films. Feroz Khan used Anil Kapoor, Dimple Kapadia and Sri Devi in Jaanbaaz in his unique style.

His film Yaalgaar with Sanjay Dutt, Manisha Koirala and Kabir Bedi also became super hit in the early 90s. One of the other shade of character of Feroz Khan was to promote the newcomers. He acknowledged the brilliant skills of Vinod Khanna, Anil Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt, who were much younger than him and formed the next generation of actors.

In the late 90s he promoted his own son Fardeen Khan. Even in recent films like Welcome he showed his comedy skills opposite Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Paresh Rawal, Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar. His death brought a great loss to the film industry. He is remembered on his birthday and will always be remembered in the years to come.

Happy birthday to Mahima Choudhury.

Happy birthday to Mahima Choudhury.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Mahima Choudhury on 13th September, 2009. She had been a big asset of bollywood films in the 90s.

She had been given a great break by Subhash Ghai in the film Pardesh opposite Shahrukh Khan. All the songs in the film became super hit like “do dil mil rahe hai”, sung by Kumar Shanu or “yeh dil diwana” sung by Sonu Nigam, etc. Her traditional role in the film was well appreciated by every section of the viewers.

After that Mahima Choudhury acted in every type of roles. She was sublime opposite Chandrachud Singh in the film Daag the fire. She had a double role in the film and did very well in the role of an accomplished girl and the role of a prostitude. Due to domination of Sanjay Dutt in the film Mahima’s performance did not get the limelight which she deserved.

She did extremely well in Raj Kumar Santoshi’s film Lajja. She was one of the five ladies who faced oppression from the patriarchal society and her way of expressing discontent was very impressive. She was sublime opposite Sanjay Dutt in the film Kurukshetra. Sanjay Dutt was a fearless police officer and faced the hurdles created by the corrupted ministers and the corrupted police officers in his department. Mahima Choudhury, who played the role of his wife in the film expressed her discontent after being the victim of vengeance of the criminals who were arrested by Sanjay Dutt.

Mahima Choudhury did well in smaller roles as well. The one which is most remembered is her performance in the film Dhadkan where Shilpa Shetty, Sunil Shetty and Akshay Kumar had the more prominent roles.

She had featured in less number of films in the recent past. The viewers expect her to contribute in character roles in bollywood films in future.

Happy birthday to Kareena Kapoor.

Happy birthday to Kareena Kapoor.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Kareena Kapoor on 21st September, 2009. She had been the number star of bollywood films and carried forward the grand legacy created by Prithviraj Kapoor and Raj Kapoor forward.

She started her career with the film Refugee with Abhishek Bacchan. In that film she played the role of a pardanashin muslim girl of Pakistan. Within short time she adapted herself to different types of roles in films like Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai opposite Tushar Kapoor, Yaadein opposite Hrithik Roshan, Ashoka opposite Shahrukh Khan, to name a few.

After two three years her films started flopping, and she bounced back with an off-beat role in the film Chameli. She received the critics award for the best actress in filmfare. From that time she never looked back. Most of her films opposite Shahid Kapoor had been super hit including Chup Chup Ke, 36 China Town and Jab We Met.

She received the filmfare award for the best actress for her effortless performance in the film Jab We Met. At the same time her films opposite other stars were appreciated. She was successful opposite Salman Khan in the film Kyon Ki. She was sublime opposite Ajay Devgan in the film Omkara and Golmaal Returns.

In 2009, her film Kambakht Ishq opposite Akshay Kumar did medium business. But she has two mega releases for which the viewers are awaiting anxiously. One is Mai and Mrs Khanna opposite Salman Khan. The other is The Three Idiots opposite Amir Khan. The viewers feel the release of both these films can bring her the number one spot back again.

The viewers expect Kareena Kapoor to stand the competition created by beauty queen Katrina Kaif and steady performer Priyanka Chopra in the coming years and emerge victorious.

Mohishashur Mordini was the greatest creation of All India Radio.

Mohishashur Mordini was the greatest creation of All India Radio.

Mahishashur Mordini which meant the annihilation of the demon, was the greatest work of art that was recorded in All India Radio in the last 100 years. It had been broadcasted on the sacred morning of mahalaya from 1930 till date.

It was associated with chandipath, which meant chanting from Chandi, the verses from Durga Shaptashati. It had signified the beginning of bengali’s greatest festival durgapuja. With Mohishashur Mordini being broadcasted in All India Radio on the morning of Mahalaya, bengalies all over the world feel the end of pitripakha and beginning of debipakkha.

Birendra Krishna Bhadra, was the maestro who was instrumental in the creation of Mohishashur Mordini. The legendary narrator and director of All India Radio, Kolkata, for more than 50 years, recited the holy verses, and told the story of descent of Goddess Durga from Heaven to earth in his dynamic andaz, most famous being “ya devi, sarbabhuteshu, shaktirupenu sanghasthita, namastashyayi, namastashyayi, namastashyayi, namoh namaha”.

Pankaj Mullick and Raichand Boral ably assisted Birendra Bhadra in his novel mission. Banikumar was the script writer and Birendra Bhadra the director and narrator of the mega-act. Eminent singers of Bengal added colour in mohishashur mordini, with then golden voices, with Manobendra Mukherjee singing “tabo achinto”, Dijen Mukherjee singing “jago tumi jago”, Supriti Ghosh singing “bajlo tomar alor benu”, while Shyamal Mitra, Sandhya Mukherjee, Suprava Sarkar, Utpala Sen and other giants of Bengali music industry singing legendary songs under the direction of Pankaj Mullick and Raichand Boral.

Goddess Durga had been idolized as Narayani, Brahmani, Maheshwari, Shivaduti, and Chamunda, decked with a garland of skulls. Mahishasura, the terrible king of the asuras, defeated the Gods and driven them out of Heaven. The Gods being dejected, went to Brahma, the Creator, Vishnu, the Preserver, and Mahadeva, the Destroyer. These three Gods projected their energy and created a new energy in the form of Goddess Durga. She was Mahamaya, the Mother of the Universe. The Goddess then emerged in full battle array to combat Mahishashura.

The Himalayas gifted her the lion to be her carrier. Vishnu gave her the chakra. Mahadeva gave her the trishul (the trident). Yama gave her the danda. Brahma gave her the rosary. Armed with weapons in her ten arms Goddess Durga defeated the Asuras, including shumbha, nishumbha and ended the rule of evil forces.

Mahalaya is followed up with Mahashashti, Mahashaptami, Mahaaustami, Mahanabami and Mahadashami, to mark, Goddess Durga’s victory over evil and bringing happiness to mankind. Mohishashura Mordini Strotrum or sloka is a very popular devotional strotra written by Sri Shankara Bhagavatacharya.

Birendra Bhadra’s mohishashur mordini became immortal, and once due to popular request when Bengal’s greatest superstar Uttam Kumar recited the play in All India Radio in the 70s, the music being directed by Hemant Kumar, the listeners showed resentment and All India Radio again started broadcasting the mohishahur mordini created by Birendra Bhadra. These days the work is converted into CDs, but it should be listened only at the mahendra khan, the time of mahalaya.

The greatest work of All India Radio, Kolkata, should be preserved and restored.

Dilip Kumar was matchless in Leader.

Dilip Kumar was matchless in Leader.

Tragedy King Dilip Kumar had been considered as one of the most dynamic actors that the country had ever produced in its history. In the last 70 years, no second actor in Indian celluloid had got the prestige or honour that Dilip Kumar had got. He had been the second Indian other than Ex-prime minister Morarji Desai, to receive the highest civilian award of Pakistan Nishan-e-imtiaz.

In the film Leader Dilip Kumar changed his image of a tragedy king and showed his comedy and romantic andaz. Initially he played the part of a young man who wanted to be a leader and followed the path of a guruji played by Motilal. But he met Vaijayantimala and fell in love with her.

The presentation of love in the film had the royal andaz with the brilliant music composed by Naushad and songs sung by Rafi creating magic in the film. Some of the everlasting hits included “teri husn ki kya taarif kaarun”, “abhi se muhobbat”, “ek shahehshah ne banwake haseen taajmahal”, “mujhe duniyawalon sharaabi na samjho”, etc. Vaijayantimala was at her best in the film. Her beauty and dancing skills mesmerized the viewers.

Besides, the character artists in the film including Naseer Hussain, Jayant and others played their own part to perfection. Dilip Kumar had such a magnetic personality, that he made the viewers sit in the chairs with his fantastic comedy andaz. His lips in the patriotic song “apni azaadi ko hum hargese mita sakte nahin” brought tears in the eyes of numerous Indians.

The court scene where Dilip Kumar pleaded innocence, was very hilarious. At the end of the film, Dilip Kumar also showed his action skills as he had to fight out against Jayant to prove the fact that he had not killed Motilal.

The film should be preserved for supreme performance of Dilip Kumar and Vaijayantimala, fantastic music of Naushad, outstanding songs sung by Rafi and Lata and brilliant team effort of the rest of contributors of the film.

Review of the film Wanted.

Review of the film Wanted.

Wanted is the remake of the 2006 Telegu film Pokiri. It was directed by Prabhudeva, and was very successful back in South India.

The hindi version had also been directed by Prabhu Deva. Boney Kapoor had been the producer of the film. In the hindi version, Salman Khan had been projected as a fearless person, who had worked under the mafia don Prakash Raj. His ruthlessness changed altogether when he met Ayesha Takia.

Salman Khan’s affair with Ayesha Takia completely changed his personality. Previously he was shown as an ill-tempered person who had used his ammunition whenever he had slightest disputes. He became more reasonable after spending time with Ayesha Takia.

Ayesha Takia tried her best to take away Salman Khan from the underworld. A time came when she faced Prakash Raj and spoke with him. She neither supported him nor agreed to his deals. Even she declined to work for him.

The rest of the film was related to the consequences of the refusal of Ayesha Takia to work for the mafia don. After a long time Salman Khan had acted in an action film. His previous films like Veergati, Auzaar, etc. were different from the present film.

Ayesha Takia was very impressive in her individual role. Other performers also did well in the film. The only concern is that very few action films had done good business in the last 3 years. In that respect it was very risky on the part of Salman Khan to sign an action film. Even then the film has the elements of entertainment and will hopefully do good business.

Review of the film Do Knot Disturb

Review of the film Do Knot Disturb

David Dhawan came up with a new comedy film Do Knot Disturb. He used the team of Govinda, Lara Dutta, Sushmita Sen, Ritesh Deshmukh and Sohail Khan in the film. All were almost known faces and who had a very strong record in respect of comedy performances.

The film is related to the story of a rich businessman who wants to hide his extra-marital affair from his wife. He got involved with a supermodel and then the problems in the marital life started. Govinda played the role of the businessman. He was married with Sushmita Sen who was smart, upstart and stylish.

Sushmita Sen owned the company, the house and also the budget of running the house used to be decided by her. Lara Dutta was the lady with whom Govinda had the affair. Lara Dutta used to think that her attraction could lead to Govinda divorcing his wife and marrying her.

Ritesh Deshmukh was in demand for money. He required work to get the funds to treat his ailing mother. So Govinda asked him to pretend to be the boyfriend of Lara Dutta, after the information relating to involved of Govinda with Lara Dutta became public.

Sohail Khan was the actual ex-boyfriend of Lara Dutta. He could not maintain the relationship but still had affection and soft corner for his wife. He came into picture in the story when Ritesh Deshmukh tried to pretend to be the boyfriend of Lara Dutta.

Ranbir Shorey, the detective, who was employed by Sushmita Sen added the fun element in the film. He went on carrying informations and ended up creating additional mess. In a nutshell the confusions created by the different characters made the film entertaining.
The film is destined to be superhit with powerful performances from Govinda, Sohail Khan, Ritesh Deshmukh, Ranbir Shorey, Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta.

Uttam Kumar was unparallel in Bibhas.

Uttam Kumar was unparallel in Bibhas.

Uttam Kumar, the greatest superstar of Bengali Silver Screen was unparallel in Bibhas. He played the role of a young man of Kolkata who went to a village to get shelter after his brothers threw him out of the family.

The story of the film was written by Samaresh Bose. Uttam Kumar did not contribute in his family, yet he had good voice and sung well in cultural programs. His elder brothers compelled him to sign in the deed of the house mentioning that he had no claim over property. He signed it and left the house.

He was given shelter in the village by Kamal Mitra who was a village doctor and politician. Uttam Kumar knew basics of the work of compounder and started working as Kamal Mitra’s assistant. He was allowed to stay in his house. Bikash Roy also worked as his assistant.

Uttam Kumar fell in love with Lalita Chatterji, the daughter of Kamal Mitra. Even Anubha Gupta, the daughter in law of Kamal Mitra attracted him. After meeting most of the villagers Uttam Kumar came to know that Kamal Mitra had acquired property in the village after cheating many villagers.

Uttam Kumar became extremely popular in the village and even contested elections against Kamal Mitra. The last portion of the film was related to the enmity of Kamal Mitra with Uttam Kumar, the person who was given shelter by Kamal Mitra himself.

Uttam Kumar’s lips in Hemant Kumar’s songs “jakhon porbe na mor payer chino ei bante”, and “tarae tarae joluk bati” mesmerized the viewers and the listeners. The film ended up being super hit. Uttam Kumar had the charisma of adjusting himself in non-glamorous roles like the one in Bibhas and having the last smile at the end of the film.
The high standard of literature being used in Bengali films of the 50s and 60s created a difference and Uttam Kumar’s films became path –breaker in every aspects of film making. Bibhas should be restored and preserved.

Ava Gardner and Hollywood films.

Ava Gardner and Hollywood films.

Ava Gardner used to be considered as one of the most stylish actresses of Hollywood films during the golden age. She created attention of the viewers with her towering performance in the film Killers in 1946.

She was born in an ordinary family in North Carolina in 1922. She was the youngest of the seven children. Her father died out of bronchitis in 1938. In 1941, Barnard Duhan spotted Gardner’s photo in Tarr studio.

She left for Hollywood and initially got minor roles in films like Shadow of the thin man. But later she got prominent roles in films like Reunion in France in 1942, Ghosts on the loose in 1943, Three Men in White, 1944, etc.

After showing her spark in the film The killers in 1946, she continued her great work in films like One Touch of Venus, 1948, The Bribe, 1949, Pandora and The Flying Dutchman, 1951. In fact viewers adored her combination with Bart Lancaster in the film The Killers and considered them a successful pair. She was nominated for Oscar award for her performance in the film Mogambo in 1953. But she lost the award to Audrey Hepburn who won it for the film Roman Holiday.

But most of her performance in Hollywood films of the 50s used to be considered as masterpieces. Some of the notable films during that time included Showboat in 1951, The Snows of Kilimanjaro in 1952, The Barefoot Contessa in 1954, Bhowani Junction in 1956, The Sun Also Rises in 1957, to name a few.

Ava Gardner married Mickey Rooney in 1942, but divorced him in 1943. She then married jazz musician Artir Shaw in 1945. Then she married Frank Sinatra and relationship lasted till 1957. Whatever may have been her personal relationship her success in films had been undisputed. She was both beautiful and talented. Her films should be preserved and restored.

Demi Moore and Hollywood films.

Demi Moore and Hollywood films.

Demi Moore created a unique image for herself in Hollywood films. Born on 11th November, 1962, Demi Moore created attention before the viewers with her performance in the film Parasite. Although born in New Mexico, her family transferred to Los Angeles in the 70s and her destiny changed. In the early 80s she got prominent roles in the films St. Elmo’s Fire and About Last Night. She was brilliant in the film Ghost.

In the mid-80s she became prominent in Hollywood films and lead roles were given to her by eminent producers and directors. Those films included Indecent Proposal, Disclosure, A Few Good Men, A Hunchback of Notredam. She took a break in the mid-90s and returned back to silver screen with the film Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle in 2003. Her film Mr. Brooks released in 2007 require special mention.

She was nominated for 48th Golden Globe Awards for the unique performance in the film Ghost. She was nominated for the MTV Movie award for the most desirable female for her performance in the film Indecent Proposal and Disclosure. She was also nominated for best fight award for her performance in the film G.I.Jane.

Besides she had notable contributions in TV programs like General Hospital, The Master, Master Ninja, The Magic 7, etc. She entered into lot of controversy by posing before the Magazine Vanity Fair with the title More Demi Moore. It created lot of hue and cry. She married singer Freddy Moore in 1979 and got divorced in 1985. She married Ashton Kucher in 2005.

Whatever may have been the controversies associated with Demi Moore, she had always been remembered powerful performance in films like Striptease. She had a style of her own and maintained that all along her career. The viewers expect her to maintain the dare-devil character and contribute well in the Hollywood films of the future.

Happy birthday to Shabana Azmi.

Happy birthday to Shabana Azmi.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Shabana Azmi on 18th September, 2009. She had remained an institution by herself. She had been considered to be the greatest performer in bollywood films along with Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah and Om Puri.

She started her journey with Shyam Benegal’s film Ankur in 1974. With her debut, the trend of parallel cinema began in bollywood. She concentrated on the inner emotions of the characters that were played. She was unparallel in the role of a step mother in Shekhar Kapoor’s film Masoom. Her performance was as brilliant as the performance of Naseer in the film.

In Goutam Ghosh’s film Paar, she showed the life of daily wage earner in Kolkata along with Naseeruddin Shah. The scene where Shabana Azmi swam across the Ganges near Bandha Ghat along with a pack of animals which were supposed to be reached the respective destination, body language, physical effort, expressions all get mixed into one.

She was as powerful as Smita Patil in the film Arth. She also played an important role in Oscar Winning Director Satyajit Ray’s film Shatranj Ki Khiladi. The other notable films which ended up being masterpieces include Khandahaar, Dharavi, Sparsh, etc.

Shabana Axmi was equally successful in commercial films. She played a prominent part in hit film Parvarish along with Vinod Khanna and Big B. Her performance in the film Amar Akbar Anthony opposite Vinod Khanna was appreciated by the commercial crowds. She even did a great job in a negative role in the film Godmother.

Her performance opposite Big B in the film Mai Azaad Hoon, in the role of a journalist requires special mention. She had created a benchmark which had been followed by actresses of the present era including Dimple Kapadia and Tabu. The viewers expect her to continue the high standard of work in the years to come.

Raj Kumar Hirani and bollywood films.

Raj Kumar Hirani and bollywood films.

Raj Kumar Hirani, had given a number of award winning films in the last few years. He wrote and directed the film Munna Bhai MBBS in 2004. The film created huge commotion all around the country.

Sanjay Dutt’s character Munna Bhai and Arshad Warsi’s character Circuit, gave them the image of their lifetime. The entire credit goes to Raj Kumar Hirani. Munna Bhai’s good deeds through muscle power and help of underworld people were reflected very well. The entire message was given through comedy instances. Boman Irani was also discovered in the film. The film received national award for the most popular film in the year. Besides it also received Filmfare critics award, Starscreen awards, Zee Cine awards.

Lage Raho Munnabhai was the second sequel of Munna Bhai MBBS. In this film Raj Kumar Hirani asked Sanjay Dutt to do Gandhigiri to solve different issues. The weapon of non-violence was reached to the masses in a very composed manner. Sanjay Dutt played the role of his life-time. In the film Vidya Balan as a radio-jockey created huge appeal before the masses. Sanjay Dutt’s gandhigiri helped in getting an old-age home back from the clutches of unscrupulous businessmen.

His third sequel, Munnabhai Chale America is under production. But interest created relating to the next film The Three Idiots. On one hand Amir Khan and Kareena Kapoor are acting in the film along with the other co-artists like R. Madhavan, Sharman Jodhi, etc. Secondly the film is related to the story of Chetan Bhagat titled “Five Point Someone”. At the same time, it had been a departure of Raj Kumar Hirani from the Munna Bhai Series.

The experience of Raj Kumar Hirani with Vidhu Vinod Chopra in films like Parineeta, Eklavya, Mission Kashmir will be of big use in his following films. The viewers await the release of the film The Three Idiots and wish Raj Kumar Hirani the best.

Review of the film Wake Up Sid.

Review of the film Wake Up Sid.

Ranbir Kapoor is seen again in the film Wake Up Sid, which is going to be released very soon. The film had been directed by Ayan Mukherjee and produced by Karan Johar. Konkona Sen Sharma acted in the film opposite Ranbir Kapoor.

Ranbir Kapoor played the role of a carefree college lad, who just understood about responsibilities only after his final year college exams. He interacted with his two friends Namit Das and Shikha Talsania. He hardly told about his affairs to his father Anupam Kher and mother Supriya Pathak.

On the other hand Konkona Sen Sharma played the role of a serious writer who had come all the way from Kolkata to pursue her career as a writer. She was serious, sincere and composed. Inspite of having different ways of lifestyle Konkona Sen Sharma developed a good relationship with Ranbir Kapoor.

While time flew fast in the life of Konkona who was busy with duties, it did not have much in store in case of Ranbir Kapoor. The film took turn after Ranbir Kapoor realized the sense of responsibility that should have been in him after some time.

Ranbir Kapoor and Konkona Sen Sharma did extremely well in the film. The performances were so natural that hardly they appeared to be involved in acting. Rahul Khanna, Supriya Pathak, Anupam Kher and all the supporting actors and actresses did very well in the film.

The music composed by Shankar Ehsaan Loy were not that impressive, although the song “wake up sid” had already become popular even before the release of the film. The other important songs included “life is crazy” and “aajkal zindagi”.

But the film does not have the masala with which it can turn out to be a blockbuster. It is going to do good business.

Happy birthday to Aditya Pancholi.

Happy birthday to Aditya Pancholi.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Aditya Pancholi on 12th September 2009. He had very strong contribution in bollywood films in the 90s.

He was most successful in the film Sailaab with Madhuri Dixit. In that film he had an affair with Madhuri. But later he met with an accident. After that he lost his memory. Then due to mental disability he started attacking Madhuri. She ran for her life. At the end the memory was brought back and the unrest ended.

Aditya Pancholi acted in many films opposite Sanjay Dutt and complimented him with his different style of acting. Both of them did well in the film Jung. They were equally sublime in the film Aatish. In Aatish Aditya Pancholi played the role of the friend of Sanjay Dutt who helped him when being attacked by Shakti Kapoor.

Even in docile roles Aditya Pancholi was very natural. His performance in Big B’s film Akela requires special mention. In that film he played the role of the brother of Big B. He married Kiran Juneza with the express consent of Big B. But they were killed by the enemies who were arrested by Big B.

Aditya Pancholi did well in other films as well. In many films he even played the role of villains. In the last 5 years, he had faded out of the industry. The viewers want him to get back to bollywood films. He is expected to do well if he makes a comeback.

Happy birthday to Akshay Kumar.

Happy birthday to Akshay Kumar.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Akshay Kumar on 9th September, 2009. He had been probably the most popular actor of bollywood films for the last 3 years. In fact by performing in every type of films including comedy films, romantic films, action films, he showed his versatility to the maximum level.

Initially he established himself only as an action star and most of his films like Mohra, Mai Khiladi Tu Anari, International Khiladi, etc., where action actions. Akshay Kumar used his skills in martial art to the highest potential to do risky stunts.

But from the time he started acting in romantic films, he gained the confidence of ordinary mass and showed his class. His performance in the film Dhadkan, opposite Sunil Shetty and Shilpa Shetty was appreciated by every section of the audience.

He formed a brilliant combination with Katrina Kaif in the films Humko Deewana Kar Gaye, Namaste London, Welcome, etc. In Namaste London, Akshay Kumar’s truthfulness in the role of a generous Punjabi lad appealed to the masses. In fact Akshay Kumar’s simplicity was in contrast to Katrina Kaif’s rude behavior in the film. At the end of the film, Akshay Kumar simplicity won the heart of Katrina.

Akshay Kumar’s simplicity in the film Singh is Kinng, also appealed to the masses. He went to persuade his friend who became a don in Australia, to return back to Punjab. But instead, he became sick and Akshay Kumar had to lead the team. Everything happened through comedy sequences.

Akshay Kumar was sublime in his comedy performance in the film Welcome. He was brilliant opposite stalwarts like Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, Feroz Khan, Paresh Rawal and others. Akshay Kumar’s dancing skills over the years had also created added flavor in bollywood films.

Although his films Chandni Chowk to China and 8*10 Tasveer released in 2009, did ordinary business, his film Kambaqht Ishq did good business. He is scheduled to bounce back with his performance in the film Blue. The viewers expect him to continue his great work in the years to come.

Review of the film Kissan.

Review of the film Kissan.

Sohail Khan had come up with a serious subject this time in his new film Kissan. In the film Jackie Shroff, a villager of Punjab brought up his two sons in two ways.

He gave good schooling to Arbaaz Khan, his elder son. Later on he became a lawyer with urbanized background. The younger son Sohail Khan, could not study due to lack of financial support. He ended up helping is father as a farmer in the plot of land where he cultivated crops in Punjab.

Dilip Tahil came to the village and persuaded the villagers of the region to sell their lands for his own personal gains. As most of the villagers were uneducated or half-educated it was not difficult for him to convince them.

Jackie Shroff’s family showed the maximum resistance against such evil plan. For while they were united their fight against saving their land they got disintegrated by more problems accruing due to the issues raised by Dia Mirza and Nauheed Cyrusi. The film took a turn after they entered the drama.

In respect of performance Jackie Shroff did an extremely good job in the character role. Sohail Khan had shown that he had matured as an actor. Arbaaz Khan got a favourable script and did well. Diya Mirza was equally sublime in her respective role.

The director Puneet Sira had experimented with a very remote subject. A lot of films had been made on similar subjects before. Ronnie Screwala and Zarine Mehta were the other producers other than Sohail Khan. The film is expected to do well.

Daddy Cool will do medium business.

Daddy Cool will do medium business.

Sunil Shetty’s new film Daddy Cool has hardly in prospect of doing great business. Director KM Rao experimented with the chaos that could have happened in the funeral of a respectable person in Goa.

Sunil Shetty, the son of the deceased father Sharat Saxena wanted to give him a memorable funeral by describing the rivers of Goa. He was a writer and tried to make it poetic. His brother Ashis Choudhary, who was even a more successful writer who resided in Mumbai, did not want to share the responsibility of his mother and told Sunil Shetty that he did not have to do it.

Vijay Patkar, an agent of Sunil Shetty’s wife Aarti Chabria wanted to give housing options to Sunil Shetty, so that he did not have to live with his mother Suhasini Mulay. Aftab Shivdasany came with Tulip Joshi and Chunkey Pandey, but behaved abnormally after consuming a hallucinogenic drug. Kim Sharma, who suspected her husband Javed Jaffery about illicit relationship with others, had a hard time to see him get involved with the model Sophie Choudhury.

Vrajesh Hirjee tried to impress Maria in the funeral. It did not even matter to him that a funeral was related to tragic feelings and praying for the departed to soul to rest in peace. It was followed up by a blackmailer Rajpal Yadav who told Sunil Shetty about the scandalous secret of his father. Prem Chopra, an old uncle also played his part.

The comedy elements in the film did not work that well. The script was not that supportive in nature. The music of the film was also not that impressive. If the film does ordinary business it is more than enough. Neither the story is new as it has similarities with the film Buddha Mar Gaya, nor the performances very unique. Sunil Shetty did well in his role.

Happy birthday to Asha Bhosle.

Happy birthday to Asha Bhosle.

The viewers of bollywood films and listeners of music all across the country wish happy birthday to Asha Bhosle on 8th September, 2009. She had remained a legend of legends in the field of music. She came to limelight in the 70s and 80s and ended up being the most successful female playback singer after Lata Mangeshkar.

In the 50s, Asha Bhosle had to face the competition from other singers dominating the bollywood playback industry like Lata, Shamshad Begum, Noorjahan, Suraiya, Geeta Dutt, Suman Kalyanpur, Sudha Malhotra and many other singers. Asha’s successful songs in the 50s include “mur murke na dekh” composed by Shankar Jaikishan in the film Shree 420, “aiye meherban” composed by OP Nayyar in the film Howrah Bridge, “accha ji mai hari” composed by SD Burman in the film Kala Pani, to name a few.

In the 60s, OP Nayyar backed Asha Bhosle, and her duets with Rafi in films like Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon, Ek Musafir Ek Haseena, Mere Sanam, Kashmir Ki Kali, are considered milestones in Indian film music. Her famous duets with Rafi include “naznee bara rangeen hai wada”, “mai pyar ka rahi hoon”, “isharon isharon”, “diwana hua badal”, etc. Few other composers only reposed their confidence on Asha like Khayyam who made her sing memorable songs in Raj Kapoor’s film Phir Subah Hogi, Ravi, who had given songs to Asha Bhosle in films like Waqt, Humraaz, Gumraah, etc.

In the 70s Asha Bhosle married RD Burman and it changed the career of the premier singer. Her westernized style of singing was used by RD to give her super hit songs like “piya tu ab tu aja” in the film Karwan, “dum maro dum” in the film Hare Rama Hare Krishna, etc. She sang in almost all the films where RD Burman composed music.

In the 80s, Asha Bhosle crossed new milestones by showing her skills in singing mujras in the film Umrao Jaan, composed by Khayyam. All the songs in the film including “dil cheez kya hai”, “justju”, etc., were appreciated by the critics. She received filmfare awards a number of times and she balanced the innovative style of singing of Kishore Kumar with her own innovation. It is not possible to cover the accomplishments of legendary singer Asha Bhosle in a single article as she had sung more than 25000 songs in hindi and other languages. Even her songs in Uttam Kumar’s film Choddobeshi composed by Sudhin Dasgupta was worth mentioning.The listeners expect Asha Bhosle to continue the great work she had started more than 50 years ago.

Happy birthday to Rakesh Roshan.

Happy birthday to Rakesh Roshan.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Rakesh Roshan on 6th September, 2009. He had one the most successful producer and director in the last 10 years. Being born in a prestigious family and the son of legendary composer Roshan, Rakesh Roshan had to prove a lot when he started his career as an actor in the early 70s.

His film Paraya Dhan with Hema Malini and Balraj Sahani became very successful. The film was remembered for the melodious music composed by RD Burman. The songs “ayo jhume gayere”, “holi re holi” became super hit in the early 70s. After that, Rakesh Roshan acted in many films opposite Rishi Kapoor.

The combination of Rakesh Roshan and Rishi Kapoor gave super hit films like Khel Khel Me, Aap Ke Diwane, Yeh Wada Raha, etc. Rakesh Roshan even acted in middle-budget films like Kamchor with Jaya Prada.

From the time Rakesh Roshan launched himself as producer and director, he stormed bollywood. His film Karan Arjun with Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan became super hit. It was an action block-buster where the music composed by Rajesh Roshan, the romance, the comedy everything entertained the viewers.

In the last 10 years whenever Rakesh Roshan had produced and directed film with his son Hrithik Roshan the films had become the greatest blockbusters of the year. Kahona Pyar Hai stormed bollywood in 2000. The other hit films of Hrithik Roshan directed by Rakesh Roshan included Koi Mil Gaya and Krissh. Rakesh Roshan chose different actresses like Amisha Patel, Preeti Zinta, Priyanka Chopra in his different films and all of them contributed to make the films successful.

Presently the viewers are awaiting the release of Rakesh Roshan’s new film Kites in 2009. With Hrithik Roshan and Barbara Mori in the film, the critics predict that it is going to be another blockbuster. Rakesh Roshan should continue his great work in the years to come.

Golmaal returns was more entertaining than Golmaal.

Golmaal returns was more entertaining than Golmaal.

Golmaal was a very successful film with Ajay Devgan, Tushar Kapoor and others contributing well in the film. In fact Paresh Rawal and Sushmita Mukherjee did a great job in their roles as blind persons in the film Golmaal.

Golmaal Returns was made with almost the same team. Ajay Devgan, Tushar Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Amrita Arora, Celina Jaitley did a better job in the film. Kareena Kapoor was shown as the wife of Ajay Devgan who suspected her husband. She thought he had affairs with other persons.

One night Ajay Devgan spend with Celina Jaitley and to hide the fact he said he spend his time with Anthony Gonzalves. Kareena Kapoor wrote a letter to Anthony Gonzalves and brought another person and from that moment the drama started. On the other hand a colleague in Ajay Devgan’s office was killed and Ajay Devgan was suspected for the murder.

The investigation was carried out by Arshad Warsi and he made errors after errors and messed up with everything. Arshad Warsi was also having an affair with Amrita Arora, who was playing the role of the sister of Ajay Devgan.

Tushar Kapoor was probably at his best. He was shown as a dumb person who expressed himself by making peculiar sounds and funny gestures. Ajay Devgan, Arshad Warsi and Kareena Kapoor are veteran actors and actresses and as such showed their experience in the film. The songs in the film were also successful. Music was composed by Pritam and the songs “tu sala kaam se gaya”, “golmaal golmaal” became super hit.

Just like Hollywood films, bollywood these days is involved in making sequels. Golmaal Returns had been more funny and entertaining than Golmaal. The viewers expect that the sequel of Golmaal Returns will be even more entertaining.

Contribution of Geeta Dutt in Bengali films.

Contribution of Geeta Dutt in Bengali films.

Geeta Dutt was probably the most successful playback singer of bollywood films after Lata Mangeshkar in the 50s and 60s. She had sung for all the leading singers of the period including Madhubala, Meena Kumari, Wahida Rehman and others.

Geeta Dutt was extremely successful in Bengali films as well. Her song “tumi je amar” sung in the film Harano Sur for Suchitra Sen became the greatest hit of the 50s. The song was played in Uttam Kumar’s film Harano Sur a number of times by the director Ajoy Kar and was used to bring back the memory of Uttam Kumar who lost it in an accident.

Geeta Dutt’s songs “ogo shundara”, “jhanak jhanak madhur badhon baaje” and “nir choto khoti nei” composed by Nochiketa Ghosh and picturised on Suchitra Sen in the film Indrani stormed the bollywood viewers in 1958. The film became super hit and songs became timeless hits.

Suchitra Sen and Geeta Dutt combination again struck gold in the film Hospital. The song “ei shundor sharnali shondhay” became super hit in the film. Very Geeta Dutt suited Suchitra Sen as well as Sandhya Mukherjee’s voice. Both Geeta Dutt and Sandhya Mukherjee used to be considered the most popular singers of the golden age, the 50s and 60s.

Geeta Dutt’s other hit songs in Bengali films include “amar duti chokhe” and “ei mayabi tithi” sung in Uttam Kumar’s film Sonar Horin. The songs were picturised on the actress Namita Sinha. Geeta Dutt’s song “kacher chirir chotay” composed by Sudhin Dasgupta and picturised on Sabitri Chatterji became super hit in 1958. It was song in Agragami’s epic film Dakharkara where Kali Banerjee played the role of his life.

Geeta Dutt sang many memorable hit songs for Mala Sinha in Bengali films. One of such songs included “nishi raat banka chaand akashe” in Uttam Kumar’s film Prithibi Amare Chay. The other song include “banshi bujhi shei sure aar baajbe na” sung in the film Sathi Hara with Mala Sinha and Uttam Kumar.

The other films where Geeta Dutt made significant contribution included Lukochuri, Modhyorater Tara, etc. Geeta Dutt’s songs should be preserved and restored.

Happy birthday to Rishi Kapoor.

Happy birthday to Rishi Kapoor.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Rishi Kapoor on 4th September 2009. He had remained as one of the most romantic actors that bollywood had ever produced.

He started his career as a child artist in Raj Kapoor’s film Mera Naam Joker. He stormed bollywood films with his romantic performance in the film Bobby in 1973. The film did great business and Rishi Kapoor received the filmfare award for the best actor for his performance in Bobby.

From that time onwards Rishi Kapoor remained one the most romantic actors in bollywood films. His films Amar Akbar Anthony in 1977, Laila Majnu in 1977 and Sargam in 1978 were the greatest musical blockbusters of the 70s. The songs composed by Laxmikant Pyarellal, Jaidev and Madanmohan in these films became everlasting hits. The notable songs of Rafi and Lata in this film included “koel boli”, “parda hai parda”, “dafliwale”, “barbad muhobbat ki dua”, “is reshmi pazeeb”, to name a few.

Rishi Kapoor’s extraordinary capability of giving lips in these songs separated him from other actors of that era. His films Zamane Ko Dikhana Hai, Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahi and Karz created history. He showed his dancing skills in every type of songs of Rafi and Kishore including “hai aga dushman zamana”, “bacchna aye haseeno”, “dared dil”, “om shanty om”, “puchona yaar kya hua”, to name a few. RD Burman and Laxmikant Pyarellal probably gave their best music to Rishi Kapoor in the 70s and 80s.

In the 80s, Rishi Kapoor’s films Duniya, Sitamgar, Saagar, Chandni, Cooli, Naseeb, did fantastic business. In fact due to presence of Rishi Kapoor, producers and directors created romantic stories during an era when Big B, Vinod Khanna, Shatrughun Sinha dominated bollywood with action films. Even in the 90s, Rishi Kapoor’s films Bol Radha Bol, Damini, etc., were appreciated by the audience.

After the debut of his son Ranbir Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor switched to character roles. In 2009 also Rishi Kapoor did well in films like Dilli 6.

The viewers expect him to continue the high standard of acting in the years to come and continue the legacy created by Prithviraj Kapoor and Raj Kapoor.