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From those in the know - film industry producers, directors, fellow actors, writers, choreographers, etc.
http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=23223Santa Banta
I did that item number because of Govinda: Esha Deol
October 15th, 2008
By Subhash K Jha
There's more happening in Esha Deol's life than meets the eye. Their family's Juhu bungalow which was under construction for the past one year is almost ready.
. . .
Esha also went through a learning experience when she did an item song with Govinda in Money Hai To Honey Hai.
"I did that number only to work with Govinda. I'm his biggest fan. As a child I used to watch some of his films almost every day. Dancing with him is a joy. He knows exactly how to handle the body contact in the dancing movements."
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http://entertainment.in.msn.com/bollywood/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1661404 MSN - Entertainment Saturday, 06 September 2008 Celina Jaitley as kleptomaniac stripper!
She got into the Dhulia project at the eleventh hour. And she couldn't be happier. It is possibly the most challenging role in the actress' career.
"In 'King Con' I play a stripper, who's a kleptomaniac," Celina giggles. "I died laughing when I heard my role. I'm having the time of my life. I got the role just a week before shooting. I play this stripper who's half-English and half-Indian."
Celina's co-star is Govinda. She's all praise for him. "I've worked with so many leading men. He's one of those rare ones who never tries to flirt or make a pass. I don't know why people talk negatively about him. Govinda is a very spiritual person." Now Celina has one more film opposite Govinda. "We'll start working together on Aditya Datt's film. I know people are talking about me and Govinda. But he's just too nice."
. . .
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http://www.screenindia.com/news/Beauty-with-a-mission/354486/Screen Beauty with a mission
Geety Sahgal Posted online: Friday , August 29, 2008 at 1445 hrs After being appreciated for her acting prowess, the gorgeous Lara Dutta has now been bestowed with the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi award
. . .
You’ve worked with Govinda in three films, what is it about him that we don’t know?
It is true that he is temperamental, but when he gets working he’s the most brilliant actor in terms of spontaneity!
How did you develop that amazing comic timing?
Thanks to David Dhawan and Partner. Unless you give a hit with David you cannot be called a good comedian. . . .
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http://movies.ndtv.com/newstory.asp?section=Movies&id=ENTEN20080062626NDTV Shah Rukh and I aren't friends: Salman Sreenivasan Jain
Saturday, August 23, 2008: (Mumbai):
NDTV's Sreenivasan Jain speaks to Salman Khan about what went wrong in his friendship with Shah Rukh Khan, his relationship with Katrina Kaif and everything you wanted to know.
. . .
NDTV: But Salman do you think that it has dented the perception as an actor. People because of that films are not taking you seriously.
Salman: Because I don't scream I'm the best, I'm best, I'm the best. I don' t need to say that the Box office says that. Even without big producer and directors they do fairly well.
NDTV: I know you are a huge commercial star but there is a always thing that haunts you about you're acting ability, people say whenever it comes to great actors they name others but you don't bother.
Salman: I don't bother but I think Govinda is by far the best actor from anybody put anybody in front of him.
NDTV: Not Aamir Khan.
Salman: Anybody..anybody.. he's so brilliant that nobody can't stand in front of him.
NDTV: Really.
Salman: - He's outstanding.
NDTV: But you like that kind of acting spontaneous...charismatic
Salman: There's so much of problem that's going on in our country that they are stressed out. If you can go and have a blast and come back and by the way comedy is the most difficult thing to do.
NDTV: What about someone like Aamir who prepares for his role.
Salman: He's very hard working that's where his sincerity, he really works and that's why he looks different in his film.
NDTV: But you..
Salman: I don't do that, it's different way of working.
NDTV: But you respect what he does.
Salman: Yes Yes.
NDTV: But you don't think it's required that it's not necessary for an actor.
Salman: Aamir feels that way that means he might have thought something naa. If I'll do that it'll look like a practice. Aamir does it so much that it looks effortless if I'll do it I will not be able to do it to that hardwork then they'll say arrey yaar ispe bahut effort dala hai once that effort is seen you are not good.
NDTV: So you don't believe in broadcasting from the roof top that you are No 1
Salman: When four people say that he has done good work then everybody recognises it. Oh everyone says kya kaam kia, superb, agar ye humko diya hota toh, toh hum bhi kar saktein hai but we don't wanna do that. Kya ookahd kya liya what have we achieved.
NDTV: For you who is no 1.
Salman: Aamir, there's Akshay whose films are doing really well.
NDTV: Shah Rukh
Salman: Currently those who do 4-4 pictures...Akshay.
NDTV: He is much bigger.
Salman: Much bigger.
Salman: Because he is working.
. . .
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http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/ET_Cetera/Ill_never_work_with_dad_Akshaye_Khanna/articleshow/3317702.cmsEconomic Times I'll never work with dad: Akshaye Khanna2 Aug, 2008, 0822 hrs IST, IANS
MUMBAI: Although Akshaye Khanna bonds big-time with his dad off screen, he is petrified of working with him in films. The actor has sworn never to share screen space with Vinod Khanna.
"I worked with my dad in my first film 'Himalay Putra'. It was a terrifying experience. There're certain people whom you shouldn't work with. My dad is one of them," Akshaye, who was recently seen tickling funny bones in "Mere Baap Pehle Aap", said.
. . .
"But yes, Govinda is another actor I feel the same way about. He's a very effective actor. Govinda is a very scary actor. Even Sanjay Dutt has such an overpowering screen presence," said Akshaye who worked with him in Salaam-e-Ishq.
. . .
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http://www.indiafm.com/features/2008/07/29/4127/Bollywood Hungama "Govinda is nothing like what he was in the past" - Ganesh Acharya By Satish Sundaresan, July 29, 2008 - 18:23 IST
. . .
Is there any significance behind the film's whacky title Money Hai Toh Honey Hai?
You know what! The term 'honey' is generally associated with a girl. But for me, the term 'honey' is happiness. And in terms of this film's parlance, it means that if you have money, you will be happy! In today's world, in order to achieve and fulfill any dream, man requires money. In short, the common man's need and desires are depicted through my film.
The film is a multi-starrer. How easy or difficult was it working with such an ensemble cast?
As a choreographer, I have handled more than 12 stars at a time. So, in that sense, handling the big names was not at all an issue for me as all of them respect me a lot and vice versa. As for the actors of Money Hai Toh Honey Hai, I have earlier worked with Manoj Bajpai, Govinda, and Aftab. But it was a first time for me to be working with Celina and Hansika, but I must say that they were extremely hard working and damn good at their work. Our equation with each other had become so good that we literally partied every single day of our schedule in Mauritius, so much so that no one came to know when the film got over! I got full support from all my artists.
You have choreographed Govinda who happens to be one of the finest actor-dancer in the industry today. So, how was your experience directing him this time?
Frankly speaking, I have no qualms in saying that I have really learnt a lot from Govinda, even while I was directing this film. And not just Govinda, I keep on learning something from every artiste of mine, as for me, learning is a never-ending process. The one major thing that I have learnt from Govinda is the value of time and the aspect of timing…Well; I am talking about comedy timing (laughs). As for my film, Govinda has always been punctual for shoots. That explains why we were able wrap up the film so fast. I should also say that Govinda is nothing like what he was in the past. He has changed for the good.
What made you cast a young actress like Hansika (who is nearly less than half his age) opposite Govinda?
My film does not have the clichéd love angle. But let me also tell you that there is something that's really 'different' about this film, which you will realize when you see the film in entirety. That's the reason why age was not a criteria between the characters in my film. Let me also add that Hansika has been portrayed as never before. She is looking so piping hot in this film! I am sure that a lot of people would have changed their perception (about Hansika being a child actress etc…).
. . .
It sounds really strange that despite being an ace choreographer, you haven't choreographed the songs of Money Hai Toh Honey Hai ! Why?
Actually, the choreography is done by Vishnu Deva, my assistant, who has turned a full-fledged choreographer with this film. The entire film is full of 'dhammal' songs and I am very satisfied with the way the film has shaped up! And I have no regrets of not doing the choreography as directing the film kept me busy.
. . .
Film sequels seem to be the flavor of the season; can one look forward to a squeal of Money Hai Toh Honey Hai?
No. There will be no sequel to Money Hai Toh Honey Hai at all!
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http://sify.com/movies/bollywood/fullstory.php?id=14719541&cid=2359Sify
| Varma gave me a wound that can never be healed: Manoj Bajpai |
| IANS | Saturday, 19 July , 2008, 15:04 | . . . Now, Manoj has found a new friend in Bollywood's funny man Govinda whom he met on the sets of Money Hai To Honey Hai. The difference in their approach to acting has not affected that friendship. "He ( Govinda) is an open hearted person and is always ready to give and take suggestions. We have developed a great admiration for each other," says Manoj, who plays one of the lead roles with Govinda in the comedy.
Money Hai To Honey Hai is choreographer turned director Ganesh Acharya's second outing as director. In his directorial debut Swami, he had teamed up with Manoj and Juhi Chawla.
Manoj claims he and Acharya share a special bonding. "Our relationship started from the time we worked in Swami and we have become great friends. We have great respect for each other. I like his work style and feel comfortable with him."
About the film Money Hai To Honey Hai, Manoj said it was an out and out comedy that tells the story of five losers in life who try to make it big. "I am playing Lalabhai, one of the losers, who tries to make it big but doesn't know how to go about it. The story is about how he meets all the other losers, finds a purpose in life and tries to achieve it." . . .
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http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India_Buzz/Sameera_hates_to_play_dumb/articleshow/3202820.cmsThe Times of India Sameera hates to play dumb! 7 Jul 2008, 0000 hrs IST, DEEPALI DHINGRA ,TNN
Ask Sameera Reddy anything other than work-related questions and she refuses to get drawn into controversial area. . . .
The actress is also veering towards comedy these days, especially after getting good reviews for her dumb-girl act in Race. “Believe me, it’s quite difficult playing dumb! I couldn’t relate to the role at all. But the biggest compliment I get is when people come up to me and repeat my dialogues from the film. That’s given me a green signal to go ahead with more comedy films,” she adds. Sameera hopes to work with the king of comedy, Govinda, one day. “Talks are on for a film, let’s see,” she says with a smile. Apart from that, Sameera will also be seen in an animation film Mahayudha Ram, where she will lent her voice for Sita. . . .
deepali.dhingra@timesgroup.com
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http://www.timesnow.tv/NewsDtls.aspx?NewsID=10975Times Now
David Dhavan & Govinda back with Do Knot Disturb 
7/5/2008 9:35:14 AM
The Jodi No 1 is back --David Dhavan & Govinda. After 16 movies together, the duo's latest offering-- Do Knot Disturb--hit the floors with a stellar starcaste of Sushmita Sen, Lara Dutta, Sohail Khan, Riteish Deshmukh and Govinda himself. But undoubtedly the USP of the multi starer is David Dhavan and Govinda's hit bearing.
When asked about his experience of working with Director David Dhavan Govinda said, "We have always worked with simplicity and we have been successful because of that. We did not do a lot of planning as to this persons role will be like this and that person's role will be like that. This truth and the love between us is our strength."
As usual the comic in 'Chee-Chee' came alive on the sets and this time he had a partner in crime --Sushmita Sen. Looks like Sush was definitely competition to the jokester Govinda. When quizzed about what it was like working with Sush and the othere Govinda said, "What can i say ? They played around with my name." Sushmita Added to Govinda's statement saying, "We call him 'Chee-Chee' with love."
Apparently through out the shoot Govinda at Sush's mercy. He said, "Till now she hasn't called me in a normal manner. Sometimes she calls me 'Chee', and at other times she calls me 'Chee-Chee'. To top it off, she calls me that just before a romantic shot. "
Jokes apart , the big question which everyone has been contemplating is , "What is this uniquely titled film--Do Knot Disturb-- all about?"
We managed to catch up to actor Riteish Deshmukh, but unfortunately could not get much out of him. When asked about the movie he said, "It's an interesting film. It's got lots of things that i cant tell you right now."
With no luck with Riteish, we tried getting some information from Govinda and Sushmita, but that attempt too didnt work. All Govinda said about the film is, "There is some masala in it. I think that is expected from David's films." Sush added, " You will have to ask the Director about the movie, because we atre not allowed to say anything about it.
Our last resort was the movie's Director--David Dhavan. He too did not crack when asked about the movie. Instead he very humourously brushed off the question and said, " It's like I'm having an affair. How can i tell you ? No i will not."
Well the caste an crew of the film do not want to be disturbed about the film just yet. So we'll just have to wait and watch how it turns out.
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http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Entertainment/I_want_to_do_women-centric_roles_now_Esha/articleshow/3194045.cmsThe Times of India I want to do women-centric roles now: Esha
3 Jul 2008, 0047 hrs IST, HARSHA BHATNAGAR ,TNN
Esha Deol's care a damn attitude is passé. Today, the lady has matured and confesses that she was a real brat when she stepped into Bollywood at the age of 18.
Since then, Esha has been through different phases in her profession. This girl with washboard abs had taken a short break from films, but now is back to work. Soon she will be seen playing an air hostess in Kunal Shivdasani's action flick Hijack. She tells NT her reasons for going slow on the career front and the roles she would like to essay, even as she goes gaga over her gorgeous mom. . . .
"I want to do women-centric roles now. I would love to work in films like Khuda Kay Liye, Taare Zameen Par and Aamir." In the same breath she adds, “It doesn’t mean that I am through with commercial cinema. I have grown up watching Govinda's films, and now I will soon be working with him as his leading lady. In fact, I must share a little secret with you. As an eight-year-old girl, I had written a fan mail to him."
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http://www.screenindia.com/news/I-am-fond-of-Govinda/330340/Screen India ‘I am fond of Govinda’
Sneha Mahadevan Posted online: Friday , July 04, 2008 at 1206 hrs Bombshell Sameera Reddy lists out all the men who have influenced her . . .
Who are you inspired by?
I am fond of Govinda and look up to him. His movies are really funny. While watching his films I actually fall off my chair laughing. His acting, his expressions and his comic timings and everything about him is absolutely perfect. I like Akshay Kumar too. I think even he is brilliant in comic roles. . . .
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http://www.masala.com/4113-sallu-tells-more-than-he-normally-doesMasala Monday, June 30th, 2008
Salman Khan on 10 Ka Dum, his earnings and the women who love him by Pranav Mankermi
Salman Khan has not been known to be very media friendly. He rarely gives interviews, leading media to just speculate about all that he's doing, and probably not doing. However, things seem to be changing.
His TV show, Dus Ka Dum, is apparently making him more people friendly. One look at the show and you can tell he's obviously enjoying himself, and so are the participants. After all, Sallu has a huge fan base, one of the few actors who are liked by the masses, the man on the street. . . .
And lastly Sallu, are you trying to draw inspiration from Amitabh Bachchan or Shah Rukh Khan as a host?
My real inspiration for 10 Ka Dum is actually Chi Chi (Govinda)! He was excellent in Jeeto Chappad Phaadke which he did a long time back. So I am just trying to follow his footsteps.
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http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India_Buzz/Hansika_Me__Shoaib_Are_you_serious/articleshow/3153682.cmsThe Times of India Hansika: Me & Shoaib? Are you serious?23 Jun 2008, 0000 hrs IST, MALLIKA MULHERKAR ,TNN
. . . Everyone saw her turn into a butterfly in Aap Ka Surroor — The Real Love Story. Her forthcoming film Money Hai Toh Honey Hai with Govinda is in the news now. According to her, working with Govinda was like studying in an acting college. “I wasn’t working. I was learning each and every day. I have learnt so much from him. It was absolutely amazing to work with him, and everyone else too. All of us got along well and had so much fun, it was like a big picnic where we played cards on the sets and partied away. Since I was underage I didn’t really visit the discos in Mauritius, but anyway, I’m not much of a night person,” says she. . . .
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http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Entertainment/India_Buzz/Im_too_expensive_for_Tollywood/articleshow/3152013.cms
The Times of India
‘I’m too expensive for Tollywood’
22 Jun 2008, 0012 hrs IST, RUMAN GANGULY ,TNN
You are 170 kgs...
I can bet you that I am more flexible than a person who is 50 kg and can jump three times more than him or her. I’m a foddie. I will be carrying eight tins of rasogullas from Kolkata. But I will be on diet after my film Money Hai Toh Honey Hai releases.
Why so?
That’s because my daughter keeps telling me that I need to lose weight.
Do we get to see you shaking a leg in Money Hai Toh Honey Hai?
Yes (laughs)! . . .
According to you who are the best dancers in Bollywood?
It’s Govinda, Govinda, Govinda — his facial expression and the movements are just awesome. Technically, Hrithik Roshan is good. Heroine mein — Madhuri, Madhuri, Madhuri, then Shilpa. But I wish I could make Sridevi dance to my steps — that’s my dream! . . .
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http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=20910Santa Banta
I’ll make my own dream role: Hansika Motwani |
. . .
Let’s share a few moments with the actress on what she has to say about her new avatar and the film…
Q. What is Money Hai Toh Honey Hai all about?
A. It’s my second Hindi movie where I play a comedy role. This film deals with six individual characters – Bobby, Lalabhai, Gaurav, Manik, Shruti and then there is Ashima Kapoor, my character, which is a successful TV star.
Ashima is not happy with her career and is desperate to do films as a lead heroine. Suddenly, one fine day, they all get an SMS informing them that they are the owners of a 1000 crore company.
However, their happiness do not last long for their lawyer reveals that there's a loan of 1200 crore on the company and they must repay it and until the loan is repaid, they would be kept under house arrest. That’s all I can say about it for the time being.
Q. How was it working with Govinda and that, too, in a comedy film?
A. Ooh! It was great honour working with Govindaji. He is like an institute altogether.
Q. Any acting tips from him?
A. I have learnt a lot from him as he kept saying about how I can do better and definitely he helped me a lot in dancing. I totally enjoyed working with him. . . .
Q. Any interesting incident you would like to share with us that happened on the sets?
A. We all used to have Diwali out there on the sets. It was like having the last Diwali there.
Q. With so many stars in this film, how was the atmosphere on the sets?
A. Atmosphere on the set was very cool and we used to laugh a lot. We used to share our magazines and laughed on that also. We enjoyed totally out there during the shoot.
. . . -Sabir Rahman |
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http://www.starboxoffice.com/newsDetails.aspx?xfile=2008/June/News_20080602_11
Star Box Office
June 2nd, 2008
Govinda to turn negative
Govinda will be seen in a negative role in Jagmohan Mundhra’s thriller Room-mate. . . .
“Govinda is a versatile actor and I’m very impressed with his comic timing but I have asked Govinda to work on my next film which is a complete thriller. The script has not yet been completed but I will make Govinda a negative character which will be a turning point in the latter half. The film is about a murder mystery. The murderer is the room-mate of Govinda. I am a looking for a newcomer for the film,” says Mundhra.
He further says, “The film will have less songs but at the same I will make it interesting for the audience. The proper shooting of the film will take place after my comedy gets released in mid 2009.” . . .
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http://www.ibnlive.com/news/zohra-sehgal-uncut-of-love-acting-and-bloody-mary/65957-8.htmlIBN Live
Zohra Sehgal uncut: Of love, acting & Bloody Mary
Anuradha SenGupta / CNN-IBN
 Published on Sun, May 25, 2008 at 23:48, Updated at Mon, May 26, 2008 in Entertainment section
Zohra Sehgal is having the last laugh. The industry that had little to offer her as a young woman can't get enough of her these days. From movies to ad-films, Zohra's expressive face fearlessly flaunts all kinds of emotions. At 96, the woman who says she used to look very plain enjoys the way she looks and claims is no famous than ever before. . . .
Zohra Sehgal: What I really enjoyed was doing a silly film here in Bollywood called Chalo Ishq Ladaaye in which I slapped Govinda every five minutes and in which I rode a motorbike. That was the most enjoyable film. And on the stage in England I did a film as a Chinese because I look very Chinese; in Primary English Class with Orange Tree Theatre. It was so successful that it came to the Westend and played at the Windom. So these were the two roles I really enjoyed doing. . . .
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http://www.mumbaimirror.com/net/mmpaper.aspx?page=article§id=30&contentid=20080516200805160301502739c98810fMumbai Mirror May 16th, 2008
Guru Govinda
Guess who is thrilled about working with Govinda these days? It's none other than Ritesh Deshmukh who is all set to shoot with his favourite actor Govinda for the first time in his career. The film, which is tentatively titled Do Not Disturb, co-stars Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta. It will be produced by Vashu Bhagnani and directed by David Dhawan.
An excited Ritesh Deshmukh says, "I am really excited about working with Govinda for the first time. It can't get bigger than this - Vashu Bhagnani, David Dhawan and Govinda all rolled into one is the best combination for a comedy."
He adds, "Govinda is the undisputed king of comedy. I am glad that I will be working with him. It's a treat to watch what he makes out of an ordinary scene." . . .
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http://movies.indiainfo.com/2008/05/07/0805071712_govinda_plays_a_bengali_babu_in_aditya_datts_chai_garam.html
India Info
May 7th, 2008
Govinda plays a Bengali babu in 'Chai Garam'
Wednesday, May 07, 2008 17:05 [IST]
After having played numerous characters in his illustrious career, actor Govinda is all set to play a Bengali baabu in Aditya Datt's romantic comedy Chai Garam.
“Chai Garam is a romantic comedy starring Govinda, Esha Deol, Celina Jaitley, Sunil Shetty, Raima Sen, Javed Jaffrey, Rajpal Yadav, Ravi Kissen and Anupam Kher. The film is not about tea (chai) per se. The basic thought of the film started from the theory of Seven degrees of separation. It's about how we are all connected by knowing someone who in turn knows someone and all that jazz. But what is common to each of the characters is tea (chai),” says Aditya. . . .
So, how has been the experience of working with one of the best comic actors-Govinda? “The experience has been simply superb. Govinda plays a Bengali character in the film, who is a creative head in an ad agency. We have just started shooting but I must say that he is one of the best performers I have seen in front of the camera,” says the excited director. . . .
Source : IndiaFM
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http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Entertainment/India_Buzz/I_was_bedridden_for_a_year/articleshow/3007555.cms
The Times of India
May 4th, 2008
‘I was bedridden for a year’
4 May 2008, 0000 hrs IST ,TNN
It was 43 degrees in Delhi when Manoj Bajpai was shooting for his film Jugaad. While the heat was taking a toll on all, Manoj remained as cool as a cucumber. . . .
The year 2007 has not been a favourable one for him says the actor as most of his films got shelved. “Two of my English films also didn’t see the light of the day. 1971 and Swami which were ready in 2007, finally got released in 2008,” says the actor, who is now doing Sanddeep Kapur’s Jugaad and Ganesh Acharya’s Money Hai Toh Honey Hai. . . .
For his next Money Hai Toh... he will be sharing screen space with Govinda, another brilliant actor who has made a comeback. “It was fun working with him. He was always there to help me. We used to party almost every night and that’s when I got to know the real Govinda,” he says. . . . |
http://www.indiafm.com/features/2008/04/24/3809/India FM
April 24th, 2008
Upen shares dancing shoes with the inimitable Govinda
By Subhash K. Jha, April 24, 2008 - 11:06 IST
 Lately, Upen Patel has been uncharacteristically nervous. "That's because I've been shooting a music video with the one and only Govinda. Can you imagine me just a four-film old newcomer with two left foot doing a jig with the awesome Govinda?" So who says senior can't take to their juniors kindly?
Upen's face lights up as he talks about Govinda's on-camera largesse. "Govinda just adopted me on the sets of Money Hai To Honey Hai. That's the film for which we're currently shooting the promotional music video. The song is a very racy Race kind of dance track by a new duo named Nitish-Soni. I died when I realized I had to dance with Govinda for this song. On top if it, the film's director Ganesh Acharya was the choreographer. Govindaji and Ganeshji have done…like a million films together."
But Govinda made sure Upen was completely comfortable cavorting in combination for the camera. "He guided me through my steps, made sure our styles matched. He's so spontaneous and free-styled while my steps are far more controlled. But you've to see us together for this number. Not for a second does Govinda let me slip up."
Upen is truly appreciative of Govinda especially at a time when stories about the senior star's eccentricities are being circulated. "I find Govinda so normal, down to earth and nurturing. I've had some bad experiences with established actors. But Govinda makes you forget a thousand you-know-whos," Upen laughs without giving anything way.
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http://www.indiafm.com/features/2008/04/18/3789/
India FM
April 18th, 2008
"I am not into the numbers game, I want to have fun" - Lara Dutta
By Screen Weekly, April 18, 2008 - 17:06 IST
From a Miss Universe to a top star and a comic female actor to a brand ambassador for The Art of Living, Lara Dutta's packed a lot into her eight years of fame and five years in cinema. After packing a punch in Jhoom Barabar Jhoom and Partner, she's now ready with a few surprises like doing her own action stunts for Blue and more.
What are the other films that you are doing?
I have just signed Shree Asthavinayak Cine Vision's Blue¸ an action drama revolving around water-sports. Anthony D'Souza makes his directorial debut and Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, and Zayed Khan are my co-stars. Then there is Sudhir Mishra's Aur Devdas and two films with David Dhawan, of which the only thing I can reveal is that one is with Govinda. I may also be doing a film with Priyadarshan.
Is the other David film the one written by Rensil D'Silva?
I cannot answer that. . . .
Bhagam Bhaag, Partner, Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai and the other David Dhawan film - you seem to be doing a lot of films with Govinda.
Yes, but Banda… is a bit different, because in that comedy we are meant to be an odd pair!
You are also doing a lot of comedies.
I am very happy to be known as a comic actor. In the last five years all the great comedies have done well, and five of the best and most successful - Masti, No Entry, Phir Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhag and Partner - have been mine. I am honored to have been thought of, for these films by directors who are the kings of comedy. It's also great that David and Priyan are coming back to me. I think that no other heroine has had such a streak as a comic actor in such a variety of comedies.
In India, however, comic actors are not rated highly though comedy is the most difficult part of acting.
I agree that comedy is tougher to do than anything else. But it's great to know that perceptions are changing. A few years ago, it was drama but now the success ratio of comedies is much more. Now some of the best actors are comic actors, and I have been lucky to work with actors who are brilliant at comedy, from Govinda to Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan and Paresh Rawal. Pareshji in particular has taught and guided me a lot.
How would you compare David Dhawan and Priyadarshan?
They are both so good yet so different. With David, a lot of work is done on the sets, on-the-spot improvisations rule, and that means in the performance too. Priyan, on the other hand, knows exactly what he wants from the scene, and so everything is canned in one or two takes.
But as an actor, I have to be very alert with both. Everything about comedy boils down to timing and improvisation and one look or glance and a slight change in your dialogue delivery can actually turn the whole character around.
. . . And was Andaaz the right debut?
Of course it was! Unless I could have got a debut vehicle like Deepika Padukone did in Om Shanti Om!
. . . You talked about the numbers game. But Kajol recently said that but for a few male exceptions the era of the star-system is over. Would you agree?
She is right in a way. A star by definition is unreachable. A film star is someone who earlier was only seen in a film. If he or she did only one film in a year, the audience would have to wait. Now the exclusivity isn't there - stars are accessible and are seen daily on television and in ads. And ever since the '70s, the heroes have always had the upper hand. . . . |
http://sify.com/movies/bollywood/fullstory.php?id=14632531
Sify
March 30th, 2008
Govinda excited about working with Dhawan
IANS | Sunday, 30 March , 2008, 10:42
Govinda is excited about getting together with director David Dhawan and producer Vashu Bhagnani again.
"We’ve created quite a dhamaal in the past with Hero No 1 and Coolie No 1. We’ll definitely be creating a full-on entertainment again. Yes, it’ll be a comedy. I’ll try my level-best that we come back with a film that will do justice to all three of us."
Govinda says he owes his entire comeback to Dhawan. "It’s something I learnt from Bachchan. When he needed to make a comeback he called Yash Chopra for Mohabbatein. Similarly when I needed to come back I rang up David and he gave me Partner."
Govinda has no qualms admitting that the Big B influenced him. "Yeah, I copied Bachchan. I’m not anything like Bachchan. But why shouldn’t I copy a man as great as him? If he could reach out to a filmmaker, why couldn’t I? David is such a big man. One call to him and my career was re-made. Today, if he asks me to do another film with him I don’t even need to think about it. I’d do it blindly."
Govinda has never been more charged up about his career. "I don’t really care what people say about me. All I know is, I’m doing my work with sincerity. And I’ve become very punctual. I reach my sets on time.
"I’m not here to create any problems for anyone. If I’m doing my work quietly, why are some people getting troubled by it? But I’m not going to get rattled.
"I don’t regret anything, not even my entry into politics. I respect politicians because they’re doing their jobs very efficiently. But the fame and fortune I’ve got has come through Mata Saraswati and my art [movies]. No one has the right to eye my career and try to ruin it."
Govinda’s Money Hai To Honey Hai producer Kumar Mangat adds: "A miracle happened during the shooting. We finished Govinda’s work in 60 days when we had reserved his dates for 85 days.
"In Mauritius where we shot most of the film, Govinda was the first of the cast to be awake. In fact he’d wake me up and we’d have our morning tea together. I remember we had to shoot at a discotheque in Mauritius. We had to reach at 8 a.m. and all we saw were the janitors at work. That’s how punctual Govinda has become."
In fact, Mangat is planning another film with Govinda this year. "He’s a pleasure to work with," says the producer. |
http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=19508
Santa Banta
March 27th, 2008
I was a good girl: Hansika Motwani
Teenage sensation Hansika Motwani who climbed the ladder of success and fame with her very first release ’Aap Ka Suroor’ would soon be seen paired against Virar Ka Chora, Govinda in the film, ’Money Hai To Honey Hai’.
Hansika shares that the character she plays in the film is very close to what she actually is in her real life.
Q. What’s the story line of your upcoming film, Money Hai To Honey Hai?
A. I cannot reveal much about the film. All I can tell you is that it’s a comedy flick which I am sure people are going to enjoy. Just wait and watch.
Q. Your character in it…
A. Well, I am playing the character of a television star who wants to be a film actress. The character tells how she works to become a star when she has money.
Q. So what kind of preparations have you done for the film?
A. For this film I have really worked hard on my looks. I look completely different from my first film. Also I have toned down to give this role a very happening look. Hopefully audience will get a pleasant surprise.
Q. How close is the character to your real self?
A. Yes, the character is very close to my real life. Playing me was fun.
Q. How was it working with such a versatile and senior actor like Govinda?
A. Working with Govinda sir was a pleasure for me. I got to work with him at a beginning of my career. I find myself lucky. I learnt a lot from him. Also he helped me out with dancing.
Q. Any interesting incident that you can recall that took place during the shoot?
A. Actually nothing in particular, because during the shoot of the whole film, we enjoyed a lot. We used to have lunch together, and at times we played cards too. The whole film was a treat for me.
. . . |
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=84f48aaa-c9fc-48fa-8e2c-130e8a045d6f&&Headline=Lara+Dutta+loves+mixing+work+and+play
Hindustan Times
March 11th, 2008
Lara Dutta loves mixing work and play
Kolkata, March 11, 2008
First Published: 17:45 IST(11/3/2008)
She's skilfully leading a holistic life, balancing work, play and meditation. Lara Dutta tells HT City why she loves to make people laugh and more.
Why this hide-and-seek-game? Where have you been?
(Laughs) Lara Dutta is working very hard so she can actually come back to the theatres and wow her fans. I have been busy filming. I am doing Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai with Govinda and Blue with Akshay Kumar and Sanjay Dutt. I have just completed judging the reality show, Mission Ustaad, on TV. And I have also been training for Blue, which is an action film. So, lots of good things happening, I guess.
Banda… is a comedy. The comic fever seems to have caught on to you…
Yes, I think it has ever since the success of No Entry. I love doing comedy and will continue to do it. I love to entertain people and make them laugh and it is much better than doing anything melodramatic. But yes, I am also trying to do action and serious films. I am doing Aur Devdas with Sudhir Mishra, which is serious.
So, variety is good?
People appreciated me in Jhoom Barabar Jhoom though the film didn't do well. It fetched me accolades and got me work with directors I wanted to work with. They think I can do justice to the character, which is a big thing for me.
Matching steps with Govinda must be tough…
Bhagam Bhaag and Partner were successful and I hope we have a hattrick with Banda… He is fantastic and such a pleasure to work with. I get to learn so much about comic timing from him. He is absolutely superb.
. . .
|
Express India
Brothers in Arms
Anand Rao Posted online: Monday , March 10, 2008 at 02:37:38
Updated: Monday , March 10, 2008 at 02:58:43
Rohit
What inspired you to be a part of Yeh Hai Jalwa on 9X?
As a viewer I always enjoy watching reality shows. When I got the opportunity, I wanted to go out there and dance.
Who among the two is a better dancer?
Ronit is a technically superior dancer. He is very close to being a trained dancer.
And a better actor?
I'm a better actor.
Who has designed your costumes for the show?
Pankaj is designing my clothes.
Your favourite dance icon?
Michael Jackson and closer home, it's Govinda.
What do you think of celebrity dance shows?
Popular with the audience, but the contestants should avoid being nice to the judges in order to score points.
. . . |
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India_Buzz/I_am__unique_Sophie_/articleshow/2849564.cms
The Times of India
March 10th, 2008
I am unique: Sophie
10 Mar 2008, 0000 hrs IST ,ARUNIMA SRIVASTAVA ,TNN
She may have broken a thousand hearts when she left the UK, but Bollywood was where Sophie Choudry, singer-turned-VJ-turned-actress' heart was set.
. . .
And Sophie truly is what she preaches. Referring to the episode in which her co-star in the film Money Hai To Honey Hai, Govinda slapped a man for misbehaving with a woman on the sets, Sophie avers, "That's how all such men should be dealt with – a tight slap." That she herself is made of sterner stuff comes forth when she adds, "If such a thing had happened with me, I would have taken action myself, for I don't believe in girls putting up with any kind of harassment. They just shouldn't."
Back to work, with Money Hai To... ready for release, Sophie informs that she will also be seen in Sanjay Gupta's Alibaug where "my role's different from the regular glamorous ones." Besides this, there's her new album that the fans can also look forward to.
Talking about films, we wonder how Sophie ends up doing minuscule roles in every movie? "It's not like I haven't been offered lead roles. But the banners weren't good enough. I'd rather play a small role in a big banner movie, than waste myself in a flick that may not get watched by people," she explains.
Is that why she chose to be a part of Pyar Ke Side Effects despite having to face good competition in Mallika Sherawat? "One has to be really insecure to fear competition. And thankfully, I just had one scene with Mallika in the movie. Besides, I'd shot much more but when I went for dubbing, I was shocked to see that my role was chopped by half. But still, with whatever little I did, I did manage to evolve as a winner after all," she asserts in reply to the umpteen comparisons drawn between the two actresses. |
http://www.kalingatimes.com/entertainment_news/news2/20080306-Govinda.htm
Kalinga Times
March 6th, 2008
|
By Subhash K. Jha
Mumbai, March 6 (IANS): Actor Govinda is very excited about getting together with David Dhawan and producer Vashu Bhagnani again and says he will create something thoroughly entertaining.
"We've created quite a sensation in the past with 'Hero No. 1' and 'Coolie No. 1'. We'll definitely create full entertainment again. Yes, it'll be a comedy. I'll try my level best that we come back with a film that will do justice to all three of us," Govinda told IANS.
Govinda says he owes his comeback to David Dhawan.
"It's something I learnt from Mr (Amitabh) Bachchan. When he needed to make a comeback, he called Yash Chopra for 'Mohabbatein'. Similarly, when I needed to come back I rang up David and he gave me 'Partner'."
Govinda has no qualms in admitting he was influenced by the Big B.
"Yeah, I copied Mr. Bachchan. I'm not anything like Mr Bachchan, but why shouldn't I copy a man as great as him? If he can reach out to a filmmaker, why can't I? David is such a big man. Today, if he asks me to do another film with him, I don't even need to think about it - I will do it blindly."
Govinda has never been more charged about his career.
"I don't really care what people say about me. All I know is I'm doing my work with sincerity. And I've become very punctual. I reach my sets on time. I'm not here to create any problems for anyone. If I'm doing my work quietly, why are some people troubled by it? But I'm not going to get rattled."
Govinda, who joined politics and earned a lot of flak from colleagues in the party, has no regrets.
"I don't regret anything, not even my entry into politics. I respect politicians because they are doing their jobs very efficiently. But the fame and fortune I've got has come through Mata Saraswati, my art (movies). No one has the right to eye my career and try to ruin it."
Kumar Mangat, producer of Govinda's "Money Hai To Honey Hai", added: "A miracle happened during the shooting. We finished Govindaji's work in 60 days when we had reserved 85 days for him. In Mauritius, where we shot most of the film, Govinda was the first of the cast to wake up.
"In fact, he'd wake me up and we'd have our morning tea together. I remember we had to shoot at a discotheque in Mauritius. We had to reach at 8 a.m. and all we saw were the janitors at work. That's how punctual Govinda has become."
In fact, Mangat is planning another film with Govinda this year.
"He's a pleasure to work with," the producer said | |
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Entertainment/Sophie_impressed_by_Govinda/rssarticleshow/2833109.cms
The Times of India
March 4th, 2008
Sophie impressed by Govinda
4 Mar 2008, 0000 hrs IST,TNN
The popular VJ-turned-actor Sophie just called to say that her first visit to Mauritius was a memorable one indeed.
Apart from the fact that she speaks fluent French, which made her feel much at home there, Sophie says she just couldn’t get over Govinda and how entertaining he’s off-camera. “I think, he is even funnier in real life. Having been in the industry for so many years, he had countless episodes to regale, each funnier than the other. I once remember nearly falling off my chair laughing,” she said. And when everyone on the streets was calling Govinda ‘Partner’ they kept referring to her as ‘Baby Girl Volume 3’. Looks like the pyaar ke side effects have still not worn off. |
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