Shah Rukh wins Best Actor Award for Chak De India

Last year's runaway hit "Chak De India" dominated the Producers Guild Awards with the movie on women's hockey bagging five honours, including those for Best Actor, Best Director and Best Film.

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who played belligerent coach Kabir Khan in the film, walked away with the Best Actor award while Shimit Amin was adjudged the Best Director.

Writer of "Chak De India" Jaideep Sahni received the Best Screenplay and Best Story awards at an award function here on Sunday.

Young filmmaker Imtiaz Ali's romantic comedy "Jab We Met" received three awards, including one for Kareena Kapoor in the Best Actor category and music composer Pritam. Ali won the Best Dialogue award.

Konkona Sen Sharma and Irrfan Khan won awards in the Best Supporting Actor category for their performances in "Life in a Metro".

Aamir Khan's directorial debut "Taare Zameen Par", which swept the Filmfare Awards, was conspicuous by its absence as it released after November 2007 deadline for the nominations.

Singers Shreya Ghosal and Shaan won awards for their song in "Guru" and "Saawariya" respectively. Veteran Lyricist Gulzar won the Best Lyrics award for "Guru".

Veteran filmmaker Yash Chopra was felicitated for his contribution to Indian cinema.

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone won honours for their debut performances. Salman Khan and Govinda won the award for Best Jodi for their work in "Partner".

Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif received special awards after being voted as style icons by Pakistani audiences in an award announced by a Pakistani media house.

The Hindu

SRK launches 'Knight Riders' Website

Shah Rukh Khan is sparing no efforts to promote his Indian Premier League (IPL) team — the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Says a source, “Shah Rukh is going ahead with his Bengali battle cry — Korbo, Lorbo and Jitbo (we’ll do it, fight it and win the battle) using all his might and wit. He is pulling out all stops to promote his team. SRK recently launched the website (http://www.kolkataknightriders.com).”

Elaborating on the website the source adds, “It’s got everything on the Knight Riders from news to downloads to their mission, including the names of the players, with the latest update on what their logo and mascot Royal Bengal tiger Hoog Lee of the team has been up to.”

The source further adds, “The website was designed by BCWebwise on March 13. Though it was a hush-hush affair, the website has already more than 8,000 hits.”

Says Shah Rukh, “I have launched my website on the Knight Riders. I want the youth of India to be part of the website and we have already got a huge response from them.”

Earlier, in one of his press conferences, SRK had said, “The idea and ideology behind naming the team Kolkata Knight Riders is because I want to appeal to the youth of the country.”

The Kolkata Knight Riders costumes have been designed by Manish Malhotra and Anaita Shroff Adajania and are a mixture of black and gold, which is the background theme of the website.

Upala KBR, Mid-Day

Hrithik is an awesome dancer and actor, Says Shah Rukh

King Khan was in his hometown Delhi and in a candid interview he talked about comparisons with Aamir Khan and Amitabh Bachchan, his item number in Krazzy4 and playing lover boy again at 42.

CNN-IBN: Every time people talk about who is the number one actor in Bollywood your name comes up. You are constantly compared with either Aamir Khan or Amitabh Bachchan. Does so many comparisons bother you?

Shah Rukh Khan: There are two ways to look at it. One is that I don’t believe that whether it is Mr Bachchan or Aamir, who is a friend, that they believe in this number game. We all respect each other’s work. There is an old saying that only telephones have numbers, not movie stars. I have never really sat down and thought that X is number one and so on. There is no race, this is a creative field. So all this doesn’t bother me really.

CNN-IBN: In the film Krazzy4, Hrithik has also done an item number after you did one. Do you think you were better and was there a need for Hrithik to also do one?

Shah Rukh Khan: As far as I am concerned, I told them that at the end of the day Hrithik’s dance would be better and it is so. And it will always be because Hrithik is an awesome dancer and actor. So, there is no comparison at all.

CNN-IBN: In the film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, we have heard that you are again playing lover boy at 42.

Shah Rukh Khan: I would clearly tell you that no, I am not playing just a lover boy at 42. It is a different kind of film and I hope people enjoy it.

CNN-IBN: You are wearing two watches, and I have seen you giving away watches on KBC. It just so happens that ‘mera time bhi bahut kharab chal raha hai to...’

Shah Rukh Khan: One is my own, which they (Tag Heur) gave me long time back and another one is being launched. So, I will tell the Tag Heur people to give you one. They are very big hearted and loving. (smiles)

Watch The Video: Click Here

CNN-IBN

"First, learn to act, Shah Rukh" - Juhi

We all know how good friends SRK and Juhi Chawla are. They have paired together in a number of films in the past and are coming together yet again in producer Ravi Chopra's Bhootnath that is being directed by Vivek Sharma.

The camaraderie and chemistry between SRK and Juhi was evident on the sets of the film. In fact, Juhi showed that if there is anyone (except Aamir Khan , of course) who can banter with SRK, it was she.

It happened during a shoot in which SRK, Juhi and Vivek Oberoi were taking part.

Despite a busy schedule, SRK was his flamboyant self on the sets. He memorized his dialogues to perfection while doing the make-up, and when he faced the camera, he delivered his lines flawlessly and okayed his shots in a single take only.

Smug about his efficiency and talent, SRK turned to Juhi and asked rhetorically,"Now, wasn't that worth a compliment?"

Not to be charmed by SRK's smugness, Juhi retorted wittily: "First learn to act Shahrukh. Then you will get the due praise."

Everyone on the sets reportedly broke out in laughter at hearing this. Even SRK took Juhi's good-natured banter in the right spirit.

The two actors play husband and wife in the film. However, SRK has a brief role because the character he plays dies mid-way in the story.

Aparajita Ghosh, ApunkaChoice

SRK's TV Show Caravan Creates Frenzy

The Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain?, the Indian version of are you smarter that a fifth grader?, caravan is moving from city to city auditioning for the probable contestants on the show; the audition has received humongous response.

With so many citizens registering for the auditions, the selection team is in a huge dilemma over sorting of the contestants profiles.

The effect of the on-air and off-air campaign is so tremendous that viewers from different backgrounds and professions have come to audition for Paanchvi Paas.

Centers like Bhopal and Bangalore saw lakhs of aspirants requesting to meet Shah Rukh Khan.

People from the two cities vied to get a glimpse of Shah Rukh thinking that he had come personally for the auditions; though SRK didn't travel for the same.

Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata auditions saw citizens wait for hours outside the audition centers to take Paanchvi pass test to win the prize money of Rs 5 crores.

Some people were found raving about their knowledge and how the Paanchvi Pass test is a child's play.
It will be fun to see such qualified people get embarrassed, and admit that they are not smarter than a fifth grader!

The show is coming soon on Star Plus, now the truth will be finally tested on Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain?

CNN-IBN

Kajol uncertain about 'Khan'

When queried regarding the upcomimng Karan Johar film 'Khan', this is what Kajol had to say :

TOI: And you also are in Karan Johar 'I am Khan'?

Kajol: Let me clarify once again that for me a project materialises only after I have signed on the dotted line. As far as this project in concerned, talks are still on.

TOI: You have always accepted projects keeping in mind your responsibility towards Nysa...

Kajol: She will always be my priority and what projects I take on will depend on how well I balance and manage my time with her.

Roshni Mukherjee, Times Of India

“I don’t believe in this cheap competition,” - Shah Rukh

When we bumped into Shah Rukh recently at an event, without missing the golden opportunity that we had been blessed with, we asked the superstar as to what did he think about the constant comparisons between him and Rakhi Sawant as far as their item numbers in Krazzy 4 is concerned!

Khan’s reply to his comparison with Rakhi took everyone by surprise as the otherwise witty but well spoken actor bluntly replied, “I don’t believe in this cheap competition”! Everyone’s surprised faces must have made SRK realize the repercussions of his strong critical comment and as to cover up the goof up, Shah Rukh added, “I’ve always said that my competitors are better than me and as it is I don’t believe in competition! I am sure Hrithik will do more justice to the item song that I’ve done, him being a fabulous dancer and even Rakhi is known for her dancing! So frankly I don’t consider myself to be their competition!”

“Shah Rukh never looks down upon his co-stars! This time around he replied curtly to the question about his comparison with Rakhi only because he is not an item boy material the way he is made to look like. He is an actor and did the Krazzy 4 song only because Rakesh Roshan requested him to do so! He definitely does not consider himself in the league of Rakhi’s and that is what made him a little furious” said a close friend of SRK!

We have already seen SRK and Rakhi grooving to the music of Krazzy 4 and Hrithik has already impressed all, with his version of ‘Breakfree’, (the same track as SRK’s) with different choreography of course!

We spoke to Jaideep Sen, the director of Krazzy 4 and he said, “It was a delight to direct SRK and I must say the song is getting popular day by day. Hrithik's song is on the same tune but there is a slight change in lyrics. He has danced brilliantly as usual and it shows! I am very lucky that two mega stars have danced to my title song for my debut film!”

When we asked the filmmaker about the SRK v/s Rakhi war, he replied, “Rakhi Sawant's song is for the masses as she has a certain amount of class which appeals to a certain target audience as she is famous through her item songs. It was a great working experience with her as well!"

Only April 11th will help us decide which is the best ‘item’ of the three is as that is the day when Krazzy 4 will hit the theatres!

Renuka Vyavahare, India Times Movies

Love in the Time of Refusal

We know that SRK had offered the role to Tabu first, but Tabu rejected it. One reason was, of course, that the role didn’t offer much for her. But there’s another reason too. And that’s the presence of Irrfan in the cast.

It’s a fact that Tabu and Irrfan have crackling chemistry on screen and a bitter
relationship off it. The main draw of The Namesake was the draw of Tabu and Irrfan for each other, in Maqbool, they were red hot with each other. But it’s also true that for the most part they didn’t talk to each other all through the making of The Namesake.

The dislike is not really mutual. It’s more on Tabu’s part than Irrfan’s. Her irritation with Irrfan stems from the fact that he likes to let on as if they’re truly drawn to each other off-screen as well. A close friend of Tabu says, "Tabu doesn’t like Irrfan showing to the world that there’s more to their relationship than actually is."

For instance, with other people around, he talks to her more intimately on the phone than he would otherwise. It annoys Tabu no end.The dislike surfaced visibly when the media once asked Tabu about the party that Uma Thurman had thrown for the cast of The Namesake. "It was no big deal, what can I say?" she had replied, adding, "Ask Irrfan about it, he likes to talk about these things." A not-so-veiled barb, surely.
So, no thanks. Tabu didn’t want to play Sudama, that’s Irrfan’s, wife. That too, without a meaty role to boot.

Times Of India

´Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi´-Karan Gives Shah Rukh Khan´s Dates To Aditya Chopra!

As is known, close family friend Karan Johar had Shah Rukh Khan's block dates from May 2008 for his next film with SRK and Kajol, 'Khan'/My Name Is Khan'. However that is no longer the case.

As per the latest trade buzz, Karan Johar has generously decided to give the entire three months dates to Aditya Chopra for his next directorial venture, 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'.
While on 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi', the leading lady, a newcomer, is still to be finalised, but the film is all set to commence on May 16 and will release on December 12.

Abid

"Learn to act, Shah Rukh" – teases Juhi Chawla

Shah Rukh Khan was at the receiving end of some good-humoured bantering by co-star Juhi Chawla on the sets of Bhootnath .

We all know how good friends SRK and Juhi Chawla are. They have paired together in a number of films in the past and are coming together yet again in producer Ravi Chopra’s film ‘Bhootnath’ that is being directed by Vivek Sharma.

The camaraderie and chemistry between SRK and Juhi was evident on the sets of the film. In fact, Juhi showed that if there is anyone (except Aamir Khan , of course) who can banter with SRK, it was she.

It happened during a shoot in which SRK, Juhi and Vivek Oberoi were taking part.

Despite a busy schedule, SRK was his flamboyant self on the sets. He memorized his dialogues to perfection while doing the make-up, and when he faced the camera, he delivered his lines flawlessly and okayed his shots in a single take only.

Smug about his efficiency and talent, SRK turned to Juhi and asked rhetorically, “Now, wasn’t that worth a compliment?”

Not to be charmed by SRK’s smugness, Juhi retorted wittily: “First learn to act Shahrukh. Then you will get the due praise”.

Everyone on the sets reportedly broke out in laughter at hearing this. Even SRK took Juhi’s good-natured banter in the right spirit.

The two actors play husband and wife in the film. However, SRK has a brief role because the character he plays dies mid-way in the story.

Aparajita Ghosh

Shah Rukh Khan´s ´Mannat´ Asks : ´Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain?'

Shah Rukh Khan has got the set of 'Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain?' installed at his house, where he diligently rehearses for the game show. He used to similarly practice at home when he was asked to host 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'. Notwithstanding the fact that he is a such a big star, Shah Rukh has no hesitation in doing rehearsals.

The man is sincerity personified when it comes to his work. Realising that hosting a TV show is quite different from acting in films, Bollywood's global superstar is leaving no stone unturned to make the game show as interesting as many of his films are.

Meanwhile, rumours are rife that Sony Entertainment Television is in negotiations with Salman Khan to host a reality show. The story goes that Salman is being paid around Rs. 75 lakh per episode as his fee for hosting the show.

Abid

SRK and CAB dragged to court

Kolkata Knight Riders are in trouble. Cricket Members Forum of Bengal had filed a case against Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and Shahrukh Khan for early issuing of tickets.

According to Cricket Members Forum of Bengal, Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has committed a crime by issuing free tickets to the spectators a month before the matches’ kick started. To the Cricket Members Forum of Bengal, CAB had made a mistake by distributing free tickets to the audience before issuing to the members. According to them, CAB had no right to hold any match at the Eden Garden before issuing free tickets to them. They had filed a case against CAB and Shahrukh for violating Rule 15 (ii).

"According to Rule-15 of CAB constitution all life members, associate members and affiliated members are supposed to get free tickets for all matches organized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. We are 31,000 members and this match is not for any benevolent cause or charity. So, there is no reason why we will not get our free tickets," remarks, Cricket Members' Forum of Bengal Convener, Abhijit Sarkar.

Bollywood Mantra

Amitabh, Shah Rukh go Nuts!

If there are any differences, the two actors chose to keep it all behind them as they began to shoot for Ravi Chopra's Bhoothnath directed by Vivek Sharma.

The ambience on the sets was quite cordial and friendly, we hear! Apparently, there used to be a plate of peanuts doing the rounds on the sets, and Amitabh and Shah Rukh were quite addicted to these moongfalis, and always requested the man who took the plate around to hover around them.

"But Amitji and Shah Rukh always used to crib about how fattening peanuts are, but without fail used to empty plates and plates of peanuts," laughs director Sharma. So, never mind their cold war, we'll at least find the two actors bonding over a plate of nuts once in a while. Or do they fight over it?

India Times Movies

Amisha in SRK-Priyadarshan's latest flick

Amisha Patel moves into the big league with SRK-Priyadarshan's latest film, Billo Barber.

The Shah Rukh Khan-Irrfan Khan starrer is a remake of the Malayalam film, Katha Parayumbol. It revolves around a humble village barber (Irrfan) and his superstar friend (SRK). Amisha plays the barber's wife and also shares substantial screen space with Shah Rukh. It's almost a dream come true for the chirpy actress who is known for gushing over SRK, say industry sources.

A source close to Amisha says, "Amisha has made a blink-and-a-miss appearance in Om Shanti Om alongside Shah Rukh. Now she has a full-fledged role in Billo Barber. Naturally, she is very excited."

Shah Rukh Khan versus Bollywood!

No one can deny the fact that Shah Rukh Khan is the biggest global superstar in the Hindi film industry. As is well known, King Khan has taken up another TV quiz show (after Kaun Banega Crorepati), which will run during prime time on the country's number 1 channel, across March end, April and May. It is given that the show, 'Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain? ' will command record eyeballs for sure, especially during the initial episodes.

As is known, Shah Rukh Khan also owns a cricket team in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Kolkota Knight Riders, which will play Twenty20 competitions in which a record 59 matches will be played and telecast in April-May. Knowing the involvement of SRK and some of the other high profile members in IPL, it is naturally going to be a huge event that will command undivided attention of the cricket crazy nation.

So it is but obvious that both Shah Rukh's television show and the IPL cricket tournament will have an adverse effect on the films releasing during those times. And will take away the audience that might otherwise have bought tickets for entertainment purposes.

Well, on a serious note, its only the makers (who have cinematically inferior products) and media hyped stars who need to worry and will crib about these factors for the failure of their projects. There have been countless instances when audiences have thronged to the theatres despite the most hyped events. But then on many of those occasions, King Khan was on the right side of the fence for Bollywood!

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

Shah Rukh finds his Simran

The hunt for the lead girl opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Aditya Chopra’s Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is over.

Sources reveal the girl is not Sonam Kapoor as reported by a section of the media, but a newcomer from Amritsar. We are told that Shah Rukh and Adi held scores of auditions for the role before finalising the girl.

A source from the project leaked details about who the girl is. “Her name is Simran and she’s currently staying at a hotel in Juhu. She doesn’t have any acting background and was chosen solely on the basis of her looks and the screen test.”

Giving details about Simran the source adds, “The script for the film is fresh and even though it’s a love story it has an interesting twist in the climax. Adi was toying with the idea of working with an established actress, but it was Shah Rukh’s suggestion that they go with a newcomer.

Simran impressed Adi with her innocence and that was important for the character. Even though she’s new to the industry, Simran wasn’t star struck when she met SRK for the first time.”

After she was finalised, both SRK and Adi joked how she shared her name with Kajol’s character in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, “Simran told Adi how she had watched DDLJ several times and never thought she would act with SRK one day.”

It is learnt that Adi is taking all precautions to keep Simran under wraps until she starts shooting.

“She’s put up in the hotel with her folks and Adi keeps having meetings with her. He’s given her the script for rehearsal and is also working on her dialect and grooming.”

Tushar Joshi, Mid-Day

Bhansali lashes out against Shah Rukh

Noted film expert, author and NDTV's consulting editor, films, Anupama Chopra interviewed Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Paris.

The show, aired over the weekend, featured clips of Bhansali's mega musical Padmavati, being staged in Paris, and was also successful in getting Bhansali to finally react to a lot of things.

Chopra asked him about the barbs directed at him in recent times. She was referring to the Filmfare award ceremonies where Saawariya and Bhansali were the objects of ridicule, especially in the hands of star anchors Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan. (Read all about it: SRK and Saif's Filmfare antics )

"They have no dignity," said Bhansali. "It makes me upset when people (like Shah Rukh) who have worked with me, say and do the things they did. I cannot ever imagine Mr Bachchan or Naseeruddin Shah to do something like this," said Bhansali, adding, "I respect them a lot." The 'mockery' as Bhansali put it, was completely uncalled for. Not stopping at that, Bhansali went on to express his displeasure about the platform that gave them the license to behave in such an unsavoury fashion and the people "who found the whole thing funny and sat through it all, laughing." Such undignified behaviour affects the credibility of the award ceremony as well, he added. "I don't know why they behaved like that," he sighed.

Anupama Chopra, NDTV

“Agar main actor nahi hota, toh teacher hota”, says Shahrukh

Shahrukh Khan reveals that the TV show has finally given him a chance to fulfill his childhood dream...Read on...

Dreams turn to reality when one treads on the path intended and attains ‘Success’. This is exactly what King Khan is aiming to achieve, being the host of the soon-to-begin reality show on Star Plus, ‘Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hai?'.

Well, it is true that Shahrukh Khan chased his dream of being an actor and has today, gained remarkable success in Bollywood. But spare a thought on what would have happened if the King Khan had not taken to acting?

The answer is very simple, as SRK would have been a teacher then. Says Shahrukh, “I have taken up to anchoring this show because I feel it matches with my personalities”. He has always wanted to be a teacher and Paanchvi Pass allows him to fulfill his childhood dream. “Agar main actor nahi hota, toh teacher hota”, says Shahrukh.

Well, maybe not in reality, but the 'Badshah' still gets to fulfill his dream through the show!!

Srividya Rajesh, India Forums

Rani, Bipasha to Star in Shah Rukh's IPL Music Video

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has roped in Rani Mukherjee and Bipasha Basu to participate in his music video for his Kolkata Knight Riders.

Shah Rukh had bought the Kolkata franchise of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for $85 million last month. The Twenty20 competition of the IPL begins April 18.

Preity Zinta who owns the Mohali franchise of the IPL has apparently no intention of competing with Shah Rukh as far as star line up in the IPL music video is concerned.

A source close to Preity Zinta, who's currently in London, set aside the rumours that she intends to get Sunny and Bobby Deol and their dad Dharmendra to do a music video for the Mohali team.

'The playing field when the matches start in April will be filled with star-cricketers. That takes care of the glam-element,' said the source.

'As for the music video we feel it should represent the earthy feel of Punjab and Chandigarh. Hence the robust song that Preity and Ness have recorded for their team, as opposed to the poetic lyrical mood of Kolkata and Shah Rukh's team.

'We feel we can't capture the flamboyant and vigorous flavour if we bring film stars into the video. Preity wants the video to be very Punjabi. That's why she got Daler Mehndi to sing their theme song,' the source said.

Shah Rukh Khan and Vijay Mallya on the other hand seem to believe star-line up to be the best way to attract big crowds to their cricket matches.

IANS - Yahoo News

SRK is throwing a lavish Holi bash for close friends

All roads will lead to Shah Rukh Khan's Bandra bungalow on Saturday morning. Stars from tinsel town will descend on the terrace of Mannat and soak themselves in colours, literally. SRK is known to throw lavish bashes on festivals and this year on Holi it will not be any different.

Our source close to the actor informs us that apart from welcome drinks the guests will be served bhaang and jalebi along with a variety of Indian sweets that are being ordered in huge quantities. The guests will be treated to lavish spread which is being ordered from a suburban five-star hotel.

Adds our source, “SRK has invited all the top actors from the industry and the celebration is going to be a rather grand affair.” The guest list includes SRK's closest friends from the industry - Rani Mukherji, Karan Johar, Arjun Rampal with Mehr Jessia, Riteish Deshmukh, Farah Khan with hubby Shirish Kunder, Juhi Chawla with Jay Mehta, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan.

While SRK is holidaying in Austria with his family and friend Juhi's family, close friend Bhavna Pandey (Chunkey Pandey's wife) is managing the bash on SRK's behalf. SRK is returning tonight to be there for the Saturday morning bash. Meanwhile, his staff is super busy getting the Holi party organised for 'H' day.

Mumbai Mirror

SRK the 12th 'Knight Rider'

Bollywood super star Shahrukh Khan is going all the way to promote his IPL cricket team, the Calcutta Knight riders, using all his might and wit.

From music videos to live performance, he is pulling out all stops to promote his team. The is that he will himself be joining the team as the Twelfth member. The twelfth member is a reserve, the one who brings drinks between the overs, new bats and gloves for the boys on the pitch etc. Shahrukh Khan thus wants to encourage his team as closely as possible.

Between drinks and half time, Shahrukh Khan also has planned an entertainment extravaganza with his song and dance performances. He has also roped in Bollywood actresses like Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra.

“SRK has roped in the Moranis and Ganesh Hegde to choreograph and manage his performance. There are going to be a total of nine matches in Eden Gardens in Kolkatta – the home ground of his team – where he will be performing live in the break. They will be erecting a huge stage, which will take up almost one entire section in the stands. And each live act will be spectacular and will see SRK dance along with other Bollywood heroines,” according to sources.

Shahrukh Khan has also roped in big corporate sponsors for each of his acts. The actor has already five sponsors – HDIL, Reebok, Belmonte, The Telegraph and Tag Heuer – and is prepared to take on more sponsorship for each of his acts

Shahrukh’s team has a lot going for it to attract corporates. Music Directors Vishal and Shekhar’s anthem for the team; six ads by Shah Rukh Khan’s company and a team mascot are already in place. All that is left is getting the cricket crazy people of Kolkata into Eden Gardens. Khan hopes he will get by with a little help from his friends. “My fraternity will join up there and cheer the team and support it,” Khan added.

The action starts on April 18 at Bengalooru where the home team will take on Kolkata Knight Riders.

Nashik News Line

Statistics & Opinion indicate that SRK is the ruler of Bollywood

Bollywood ka Badshah kaun (Who is the ruler of Bollywood?)

Screen put the million dollar question to the film fraternity.

A few insights:

BOX-OFFICE EARNINGS OF SHAH RUKH KHAN & AAMIR KHAN'S LAST THREE FILMS

Film Year Total Net Gross Verdict

Om Shanti Om 2007 86,50,00,000 Blockbuster

Chak De! India 2007 63,98,00,000 Blockbuster

Don 2006 51,71,00,000 Hit
_____________________________________________________

Taare Zameen Par 2007 59,87,00,000 Blockbuster

Fanaa 2006 54,90,00,000 Super hit

Rang De Basanti 2006 52,77,00,000 Super hit

Aamir Khan could never have imagined that a casual comment about his colleague Shah Rukh Khan,could spark off such a major debate. Aamir who endorses Samsung, when quizzed at a recent event about the competition he foresees from Shah Rukh Khan who is promoting Nokia said, "Shah Rukh Khan prefers being number two!" This remark said in jest, or seriously quickly made headlines and sent the media scurrying to the other Khan for his comment! And the flamboyant Shah Rukh not the one to let go any taunt without a retort was only too happy to oblige. At the unveiling of the name and logo of his Kolkata Indian Premier League-Knight Riders just a day after Aamir's remark, the question was thrown at Shah Rukh. Starting off lightly with a 'my wife Gauri will beat me if say anything about Aamir' Khan could not help but continue with 'But we are friends and even if he is serious with his comment, I will take it as a compliment! But the question as to who is the number one was left unanswered. Screen spoke to some industry insiders to get their verdict as to who they think rules the box-office!

Mukesh Bhatt (Producer): If you have a look at the last few year's list of blockbusters, most of them are Shah Rukh starrers. Without hesitation Shah Rukh is much bigger than Aamir when it comes to the box-office earnings. If you talk about their talent I would consider both at par, I cannot say who is bigger there.

Sameer Nair (CEO NDTV imagine): I do not know of any survey that has been done to see who is number one, but both actors have the charisma to demand adulation by the audiences and to create records at the box- office. Shah Rukh Khan is more flamboyant and constantly in the news, on the other hand Aamir is not always in the news but when it comes to their films both the actors' films get a great initial.

Ronnie Screwala (Producer): I would not compare the two as each is unique in his own way and both have their own charm. But despite Shah Rukh being an actor who is associated with big-budget films and Aamir with small budget ones, both get a good opening. Both have been in the profession for several years and extremely adept at their craft.

Kunal Kohli (Film director): Aamir and Shah Rukh are not in the same space. Aamir believes in a different form and genre of cinema, which is quite diverse to Shah Rukh's and is quite happy within his space. But coming to who is bigger at the box-office both are huge. If you want to compare their box-office ratings I know that Aamir's solo starrer Fanaa, did more business than Shah Rukh's multi-starrer Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna!

Satish Kaushik (Film director): Going by last year's records I would say Shah Rukh, Aamir Khan and even Akshay Kumar enjoy equal status today, as all three have given blockbusters like Om Shanti Om, Taare Zameen Par and Heyy Babyy. But when it comes to charisma and the box-office Shah Rukh is definitely at the top!

Amodh Mehra (Trade analyst): At present it is Shah Rukh's films which break records. Aamir's films do good business but they are not record breaking, so as to say, and that even would include Lagaan! Shah Rukh is without doubt the number one today. As for their acting abilities both are equal in different ways. Shah Rukh is more of a masses person, while Aamir connects more to the intellectual. When it comes to their endorsements both command the same money, though Aamir is more choosy about what he takes up!

Vikram Bhatt (Filmmaker): Comparing Shah Rukh and Aamir is like comparing apples with oranges! Just like both the fruits are so different, both actors are different in their beliefs and ideas. And if you have a look at their films, say Aamir Khan's Rang De Basanti and Taaren Zameeen Par and Shah Rukh Khan's Om Shanti Om, the kind of cinema that they believe in. But their similarity lies in their concentration, focus and hard work and the ability to turn the ordinary into extraordinary! That is why they are the huge successes that they are!

NP Yadav (Trade analyst): As far as the box-office is concerned, Shah Rukh Khan is a big, big brand today, far bigger than Aamir Khan. If Shah Rukh demands 50 crore for a film, any producer would happily give it to him as he can get a neat 70 crore before the release of the film. Shah Rukh's other advantage is that he is a huge brand overseas as well, and that is where Aamir Khan (who is huge in India) loses out. In rating Shah Rukh stands from 1-10, today. When it comes to talent, that is debatable as Aamir is more choosy and inclined towards sensitive cinema and very keen to experiment and take up challenges, while Shah Rukh generally prefers to work with his favourite filmmakers like Karan Johar and Aditi Chopra.

Sudhir Mishra (Filmmaker): Neither of them want to work with me so their ratings at the box-office does not interest me. But being a sensitive filmmaker I appreciate their talent. Both Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan are immensely talented. Shah Rukh Khan with his tremendous charisma can bring any film to himself, on the other hand Aamir Khan moulds better and reaches out to the character and the film! I would rate both of them as exceptional actors.

Screen India

Bappi Lahiri will compose three songs for SRK's 'Knight Riders'

Bappi Lahiri, who did an impromptu song titled OK for Om Shanti Om, is now recording three different tunes for Shah Rukh Khan’s IPL team. After Vishal Shekhar, Bappi Lahiri is the second composer to contribute to the Knight Riders tunes. Here Bappi da talks about singing for SRK, his inspiration for composing the ‘cricket’ tunes and his secret plan to make SRK sing!

How did you get on this project?
I am a huge SRK fan, and he knows that. In fact, whenever
we’ve met he’s talked about my music and I’ve talked about
his films. So it was really exciting when I got a call from him, asking me to work for his team Knight Riders.

How many tracks are you composing and who will sing them?
I am doing three songs for Shah Rukh. I will be singing one song, Usha Uthup is singing the second and this Bengali band called Bhoomi sings the third. We are planning to do the recording some time next week. I am very excited about working with Ushaji, because we have given several super-hit songs together. Also I am eager to work with Bhoomi because these guys are really good. The songs will be in Hindi with some Bengali words in between.

What kind of inputs did SRK give you?
He’s very sure about the kind of sound he wants and was quite involved. He wanted me to incorporate a powerful rocking sound that sends the message of courage and victory. I am also a huge cricket fan and share the same passion as Shah Rukh. I think Knight Riders is going to be an amazing team.

Any plans to rope in SRK to sing for you?
Of course, I am not going to let him off so easily! We are still discussing the melodies and deciding how the song will shape up. I want to keep a few surprises for the listeners when the song releases.

Mid-Day

P.S. In a recent poll, SRK's fans in Bengal declared him the most popular and loved star in West Bengal and conferred upon him the new nickname... 'Lion Eyes'!

Shah Rukh is the real King

Shah Rukh Khan is not called King Khan for just his acting prowess. The actor is on top when it comes to professionalism as well. It is common to hear of stars throwing tantrums and thereby delaying shoots. So when SRK completed a promo shoot of ‘Panchvi Paas’ in just five hours everyone was pleasantly surprised.

And to add the perfect touch the crew was also treated to some SRK brand of humour. This helped to lighten the atmosphere before the shoot began and the crew was all charged to give their best shot. Insiders say that SRK was very concerned that they work at ease and without any pressure.

"He is so down to earth and cooperative that his humility stuns you. His warm demeanor and energy rubs off on everybody working with him," says the Director (promo), Prashant Issar.

Now we know why he continues to amass fans even after so many years.

Tellychakkar

SRK's new film titled 'Billoo Barber'

SRK will soon start shooting for Priyadarshan's film Billoo Barber. A Red Chillies Entertainment venture, the film also stars Irrfan Khan in the title role.

Billoo Barber is an adaptation of the story of friendship between Krishna and Sudama.

Our well-placed source from Red Chillies Entertainment says, “Billoo Barber is a story based on the relationship between Krishna and his childhood friend Sudama. Priyadarshan is adapting this story of friendship between two friends - one rich and the other a poor villager - in a completely new avatar. Here SRK represents Krishna, he plays an actor. On the other hand Irrfan Khan represents Sudama and plays a village barber. The two are friends from school who grow up and drift until they meet again.”


SRK will be seen romancing three different ladies including Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone. He has already begun shooting with Kareena but is in talks with Deepika and Priyanka.

For the second female lead opposite Irrfan, Priyadarshan is scouting for a powerhouse performer, someone like Smita Patil. According to our source Ameesha Patel and Tabu are being considered for the second lead. Adds the source, “Shah Rukh will take the final decision about the cast.”

The lyrics are written by Gulzar and the screenplay is by Mushtaq Sheikh and Manisha Korde.

Billoo Barbar is Priyadarshan's 75th film and is rather reluctant to let us in with more on the film He says, “It's too early to give out details about Billoo Barber. Red Chillies will make an official announcement at the right time.”

Ashwini Deshmukh, Mumbai Mirror

Leaving on a jet plane

If you're Shah Rukh Khan and you miss your flight, there's always Mukesh Ambani to offer you his private jet.

The world's 14th richest man, Mukesh Ambani's high-powered gathering at the Reliance petro township in Jamnagar had around 250 high-profile corporate personalities like Infosys' Nandan Nilekani, ICICI's K V Kamanth, Bharati Group's Sunil Mittal, M & M's Anand Mahindra, Adi Godrej and Vikram S Mehta and also some Bollywood stars. Among others was Shah Rukh Khan.

SRK reached the Jamnagar bash by 5 pm on Friday, and he left the venue by midnight. He had to reach Mumbai, pick up Gauri, Aryan and Suhana and catch a flight to Austria. But SRK missed his flight to Austria and when Mukesh Ambani got to know of this, he offered his brand new Boeing Business Jet 2 to SRK and family to fly to Austria on a holiday.

Our source, who was present at the Jamnagar meet, says, “When Mukesh Ambani learnt that SRK who had left Jamnagar but missed his flight in Mumbai, he promptly offered Khan his new private jet so that they could carry on with their journey as per schedule. SRK reached Mumbai with Juhi Chawla and her husband, Jay Mehta. Gauri, Aryan and Suhana joined SRK and they left for Austria on Ambani's plane around 3:30 am on Saturday. Boeing Business Jet 2 was at SRK's service.”

Apparently, Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Karan Johar apart from Vinod Khanna and son Rahul Khanna were also part of the conclave along with Juhi Chawla and her husband, industrialist Jay Mehta.

Mumbai Mirror

Sonam Kapoor to star opposite Shah Rukh Khan: Exclusive Report

Sonam Kapoor, 22, will star opposite Shah Rukh Khan, 42, in Aditya Chopra's romantic action drama Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

Shah Rukh was paired with then 22-year-old debutante Deepika Padukone in his last film Om Shanti Om.

Unlike in Om Shanti Om, the script for Aditya Chopra's film mandates the massive age difference since it focuses on the love between a 40-year-old man and a 16-year-old girl.

When Yash Raj Films announced their new project they also indicated that the female protagonist in the film would be a 16-year-old newcomer.

Following the announcement the banner launched a massive talent hunt for the right combination of Punjabi looks and histrionic abilities, interviewing hundreds of girls in the process.

However, their efforts drew a blank, reports Mumbai Mirror, prompting Aditya Chopra to settle for a young and talented Punjabi girl that the whole country already knew and raved about - Sonam Kapoor.

Sonam's father Anil Kapoor, himself a talented actor, was receptive to the idea, and several meetings later Sonam was on board.

Production of the film, that will be shot extensively in Greece, Australia and Dubai, will start in June - July for release by the end of 2008.

Sawf News

"Shah Rukh is a friend," says Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh's look in Ravi Chopra's upcoming 'Bhootnath, was revealed last Saturday at Cinemax (Versova) in Bombay.

In 'Bhootnath,' Bachchan plays a cranky grandfather, who later becomes a partner in pranks indulged in by his seven-year-old grandson 'Banku' (Aman Siddiqui). The movie is about a child's innocent love and how it can turn a foe into a friend.
The cast of 'Bhootnath' also includes Juhi Chawla, Satish Shah, Rajpal Yadav and Tejas. Shah Rukh Khan makes a special appearance.

While referring to Shah Rukh Khan, Bachchan denied any 'bad vibes' between them. They have a few scenes together in the movie. "It is a media-created animosity. He is a friend," Bachchan said.

An Indian Films presentation, 'Bhootnath' is scheduled to release on May 9, later this year.

Planet Bollywood

Shah Rukh Khan on a holiday with his kids

Shah Rukh Khan has taken a brief break from the hustle and bustle of tinsel town.

The superstar is learnt to be on a short vacation to the snow-capped mountains of Austria with his two kids Aryan and Suhana.

Wife Gauri Khan is reportedly not accompanying the king Khan. Rather, it is good friend Juhi Chawla’s hubby Jai Mehta and his two kids Janhavi and Arjun who are accompanying the Khan trio.

Juhi Chawla is also not giving company to her hubby.

Shah Rukh and Juhi have almost been like family friends for years. The two are also paired together in Ravi Chopra’s film Bhootnath , the first look of which was unveiled on Saturday last week.

SRK is going to be very busy in the coming months with the upcoming IPL tournament, followed by his hectic schedule for Aditya Chopra’s film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi in May.

Latest reports from Bollywood suggest that Yashraj Films are looking forward to release the movie in the second week of December this year, during the festive time of 'Eid-Ul-Zuha'.

ApunkaChoice

Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol still Bollywood's hottest pair

Nearly seven years after they last appeared together, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, remain Bollywood's most popular on screen pair.

Director Karan Johar calls them a dream pair and was gleeful when he managed to rope them in for his forthcoming film Khan last December.

"Yes, Kajol is doing my film and I'm very happy… ," he said triumphantly.

Recalling how he failed to rope in Kajol opposite Shah Rukh in Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Johar said, "She hadn't turned down my film, per se. I needed her to shoot out of the country for ninety days and she didn't want to leave Nysa for such a long time."

"This time around I told her, 'I need you. You just have to do my film.' That was it," he added.

Kajol and Shah Rukh Khan have so far played romantic lead in the following films, all of which turned out to be hits.

Baazigar (1993), Karan Arjun (1995), Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001).

The back-to-back success of Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif films in 2007, Namastey London and Welcome, made us wonder if fan loyalties had started to change. We know for a fact that the two are individually very popular.

Going by an online poll that Sawf News is currently running, which has received close to a 1000 votes already, nothing has changed.

Before starting the poll on March 12 we had suspected Shah Rukh and Kajol were still the more popular couple, but were surprised by the astounding gap that emerged, practically within minutes of the poll opening.

The gap has since then remained consistent, indicating there has been no manipulation through rigged block voting.

All we can say now is that Johar will have a winning combination in his hands when Khan begins to roll later this year.

Shah Rukh will do Khan after Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, a film that Shah Rukh is co producing and in which he will star opposite a 16-year-old new face!

The man continues to amaze us!

Sawf News

The Aamir-Shah Rukh banter continues!

Aamir Khan has responded to Shah Rukh Khan ’s recent admission that he (SRK) is number two in Bollywood.

The tongue-in-cheek banter between the two Khans of Bollywood has moved a step further. It began on Wednesday when Aamir said at an event that Shah Rukh is number 2.

In response, SRK was no less witty and had accepted with sarcastic humility that it was a compliment to him to come on second spot after Aamir, who, SRK said, is indeed number one.

Now, on Saturday, when mediapersons told Aamir about SRK’s response and asked for his reaction, Aamir said with a broad smile: “Mujhe khushi hai ki usne maan liya” (I am glad that he has accepted that he is no. 2).

Of course it was said in good humour and the whole gathering of media persons broke out in laughter. Let us see what SRK would have to say to that.

The exchange of verbal volleys between the two Khans is getting interesting. How we wish the good-natured banter continues longer.

ApunkaChoice

Shah Rukh in top 20 income tax payers' list

NEW DELHI: Sounds strange, but India’s top billionaires don’t even figure among the top 20 crorepati income tax payers in the country. A ranking of top tax payers on the basis of advance tax collections up to December, 2007, suggests that none of the industrialists in the country are among the top-20 list though Bollywood super star Shah Rukh Khan (8th) and UP chief minister Ms Mayawati (19th) have figured on the list. SundayET has procured the list of 134 individual tax payers in the country who have paid Rs 1.5 cr or above as advance taxes up to December 2007.

Significantly, Punjab, which is among the prosperous states in India, has no individuals who paid an advance tax of Rs 1.5 cr and above this fiscal, whereas Gujarat has only three crorepati taxpayers. Relatively poorer states such as Orissa and Jharkhand have one each on the list, whereas West Bengal has two such individuals. Not surprisingly, Maharashtra tops with 54, followed by Delhi (16), Tamil Nadu (15), Karnataka (13) and Andhra Prasdesh (12).

Chairman of Max India Analjit Singh, Wipro Technologies chairman Azim Premji, AV Birla group chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla, Vodafone Essar MD Asim Ghosh, architect Hafeez Contractor, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals MD Naresh Trehan and Infosys co-chairman Nandan Nilekani have all figured on the list of top 100 tax payers in the country. Significantly, neither the chairman of Reliance Industries Mukesh Ambani nor chairman of ADAG Anil Ambani is on the list.

Sources in the finance ministry said that most industrialists in India earn their fortunes not from their salaries, but through dividends, for which no individual needs to pay taxes. “A company pays taxes on dividends, but no individual needs to pay taxes on that. Thus most promoters who earn a fortune by the way of dividends need not pay any tax at all. Thus, many industrialists don’t figure among top tax payers in the country,” sources said.

In fact, the highest tax payer of the country during this fiscal, who paid Rs 58 cr up to December, 2007, is not a celebrity at all. Also, the second, third, fifth and sixth highest tax payers in the country till December, 2007, happen to be from the same family in Mumbai. They paid a combined tax of Rs 179 cr.

Among the celebrities, Shah Rukh Khan is not alone on the list. Bollywood stars who have figured among tax crorepatis in the country, include Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, and Aamir Khan. Sachin Tendulkar who paid Rs 2 cr as advance tax also figures among the top 100.

Shantanu Nandan Sharma, TNN

SRK to make a music video

Drawing inspiration from the ‘Chak De’ song, which has become a fans’ anthem in cricket and hockey games, Shah Rukh Khan is planning to make a music video with composer duo Vishal-Shekhar. Incidentally, this is the first time King Khan will be seen in a music video.

“I haven’t finalised on exactly how I am going to do it. But I want to make a music video,” said Shah Rukh.

What’s more? Apart from shaking a leg himself, SRK will also be approaching some of his Bengali leading ladies for a guest appearance in the video. Officials working with him on the project indicated that the actor is planning to approach Bipasha Basu and Rani Mukherji for the same.

“Some of the most successful heroines in Bollywood are Bengalis. So I am sure they would like to join me in my effort to cheer their team through the video,” he added.

According to sources, Vishal-Shekhar has already started working on the lead theme of the video which will be released in the first or second week of April just before his team plays its maiden match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

To lend some regional flavour to the album, the superstar is also keen on roping in two local Bangla bands for at least three tracks on the album. “Shah Rukh wants to rope in the hugely popular Bangla bands in Kolkata and one or two tracks might be done in Bengali too,” said a source.

There is also a chance that Shah Rukh might rope in more celebrities for a guest appearance for his maiden music video to (like what he did in Om Shanti Om) and if sources are to believed that is exactly what is being chalked out now.

In all probability, only Sourav Ganguly will be making a special appearance in the music video. Shah Rukh apparently doesn’t want his players to get involved with the “entertainment part” of the tournament.

Soumyadipta Banerjee, DNA India

SRK's RNBDJ on December 12

Earlier this month, we had told you about the dream project, which brings back Bollywood's global superstar, Shah Rukh Khan and ace director Aditya Chopra, together for the third time, after a gap of almost eight years, RAB NE BANA DI JODI.

We also told you that the project was all set to go before the camera in mid-May. Here is more on the same. No, no, do not let your imagination run wild, as we are not here to tell you about which lucky heroine has been finalized to star opposite King Khan, as there is no news on that front.

As per the latest communique from Yash Raj Films, RAB NE BANA DI JODI is all set to hit the screens globally on December 12. And that is indeed a superb release date choice, as it will coincide with the bountiful weekend of festive 'Eid-Ul-Azha' period, and the coming weeks will see the Christmas and winter vacations in the schools and colleges.

So the stage is set for an exciting and record establishing end to the year with an extremely exciting project, one that marks the reunion of the team that gave us the record breaking DILWALE DULHANIA LE JAYENGE (still running in Bombay) and MOHABBATEIN.

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

Shah Rukh Khan the boss

Sourav Ganguly, once more, is feeling like the Prince of Kolkata. And the man who gave him back his crown and position of pride in the City of Joy, is Bollywood Badshah Shah Rukh Khan.

The two, ably assisted by cricketers as diverse as Ishant Sharma of India, Ricky Ponting of Australia and Shoaib Akhtar of Pakistan, drive the Indian Premier League’s team Kolkata Knights. If SRK is sparkle and wit and all zesty effervescence, then Ganguly is newfound resilience and quiet strength.

The bossman of Kolkata Knights and the Twenty-20 team’s captain, spent a few minutes with BombayTimes (BT) before padding up to face the press in Mumbai on Thursday...

BT: Who’s the boss here, the Bollywood Badshah or Prince of Kolkata?
Ganguly: It’s Shah Rukh Khan who’s the boss.

BT: And the show stealer?
Ganguly: He only, he’s a great actor and entertainer, the media loves him. So all the attention on SRK is justified.

BT: Why cricket?
SRK: I love the game. I have played soccer, hockey and cricket in my school and college days. My parents supported whatever I wanted to do, from theatre to sports. My joining the cricket is not a social service, I’m involving myself with the game, it’s a social obligation.

BT: Who is the first cricketer you’ve ever met?
SRK: When I was 16, I had gone to Pakistan with my mother. We bumped into Imran Khan. Excited, I went up to him and shook hands. But Pakistan had lost a match that day, and he was in a foul mood. It was bad timing. He brushed me aside. Yet it was the highpoint of my trip and later I bragged to friends that I touched Imran Khan. I also met Wasim Akram at the airport. It was more pleasant.

BT: How does it feel to be boss of Kolkata Knights?
SRK: I’m not the boss here. We have divided the work. I’m in charge of the entertainment part. Sourav and John Buchanan, the cricket. And Jai and Juhi, the administration. I don’t step into their areas. We will work in tandem, the single unifying factor driving us is constructive aggression. It’s our mantra. This is not about winning the silver, but losing the gold. That’s the attitude we all have and I am glad my team thinks like me. I always tell my son Aryan, if you can’t score the goal, eat up the ball but don’t give up.
Ganguly: There is mutual trust and respect between all of us. I have known Shah Rukh for quite some time, and it’s a privilege to be captaining his team. He is a bundle of raw energy waiting to explode. His drive and hunger is in itself a huge inspiration. He is not called the Badshah for nothing.

BT: How will you divide time between films and cricket?
SRK: I’m an entertainer first then a sportsman. I know my priorities and I have worked out strategies so that one role doesn’t overlap the other. I’m not going out and doing the playing. I will do everything possible to bring in the entertainment. But if there is a tournament for the above-35, I would love to play. You can now call me a sports-actor.

BT: Will you offer Ganguly a role in films?
SRK: No. Har player ki ek dignity hoti hai and I will accord him that. In fun, yes, maybe for a music video.
Ganguly: Shah Rukh knows my strength.

Afsana Ahmed, Times Of India - Bombay Times

The SRK - Katrina Connection

Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) and Katrina Kaif are officially the king and queen of mobile content, according to findings of a new research undertaken by IMI Mobile, a value-added services provider for the telecom industry. Budget 2008-09

The study notes that Bollywood’s popularity is at an all-time high, and that actors Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar and Sanjay Dutt make it to the top five along with SRK, to become the five most downloaded movie stars in terms of mobile content. Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta and Aishwarya Rai all feature along with Katrina in the top five female Bollywood actors.

The mobile content ranges from ringtones of a film’s big hits to graphics and wallpapers of the stars. The study was based on blockbuster movies of last year.

The Chief Executive Officer and Founder of IMI Mobile, Vishwanath Alluri, in a statement said India has the fastest growing mobile population in the world, which is projected to reach 400 million by 2010.

Sify News

"I never read Adi's or Karan's scripts." - SRK

Call it blending 'bling' with cricket, or just punching some entertaining elements, Shah Rukh was at his witty best at the customary unveiling of the name, logo and kit (replete with a golden helmet) of his Kolkata Indian Premiere League team - Knight Riders - in the city yesterday afternoon.

SRK has already got the crowd pullers - Sourav Ganguly, Ricky Ponting, Shoaib Akhtar and Ishant Sharma - for his team. Meanwhile, son Aryan came up with concepts for the promos revealing the team, and wife Gauri is at the helm of the hospitality department.

Read on…

So, you have got your cricket team ready…

Yes, finally. I have always wanted to be a sportsman but I couldn't because of health reasons or probably I was meant to do other things. Despite being an actor, I'm a sportsman at heart. I often speak like sportsmen -- 'There's no competition for me,' and 'I always play to win'. It feels good to have a youth-oriented team who will give their best shot with a constructive sense of aggression. The purpose is to roll some entertainment along with the game of cricket.

How excited is your 10-year-old, cricket enthusiast son Aryan?

He is extremely excited and so are his friends. I hope it just spreads to the rest of the children and youngsters in our country. They helped in determining the promos for our team. I remember asking Aryan and his friends how they would react if they were hit with a ball by a member of the opponent team. Initially, they said they would hit back but later they said that if they had their way they would simply pick the ball and start eating it with a vengeance. It struck me, and I asked my guys at Red Chillies to cut a promo along those lines.

Was Aryan also involved in coining a name for the team?

Well, he came up with quite a few names like Ball Busters, Assassins and Killers. I clearly told him that we definitely can't settle for Ball Busters. I explained to him the concept of passionate fighters and later we unanimously decided on Knight Riders.

How involved is your wife Gauri as far as managing the team and taking other creative decisions are concerned?

She is definitely making her presence felt. She knows that this venture can go horribly wrong for me as I'm primarily an actor. So she is standing by me and for the first time I'm feeling her support. As far as her duties are concerned, she is looking after the hospitality department.

Are you nervous?

Yes, I'm nervous as I'm trying to give a platform to the youngsters and if I fail to do so, then I will lose a great opportunity. And I don't know when the next opportunity will come my way.

Do we see you wielding the willow along with your boys at the first match?

No, I don't think so. It's a different ball-game altogether. It takes a lot to try and stand at the wickets when Shoaib Akhtar or an Ishant Sharma is bowling. I will have to ask our coach John Buchanan if I can drop in during the practise sessions, (which start next month in Kolkata) and play with the boys.

How else are you going to ensure entertainment for the audience at the cricket ground?

The boys are going to be dressed as golden knights. We will present our lucky mascot Hoog Lee (an animated tiger) and his girlfriend Shoog Lee. There are going to be cheer leaders. Bappi da and Usha Uthup are going to belt out songs for the team. And if the people of Kolkata desire, I will dance as well (he laughs).

Are you actor friends going to perform as well?

It will be below my dignity to reduce their status to performers. They're will be watching all matches and I will ensure that they arrive on different days so that we can control the crowd.

Do you consult your friends over matters of the IPL?

My friend (and Juhi Chawla's husband) Jay Mehta is taking care of the technicalities involved. My friend who follow cricket very closely like Sanjay Kapoor, Sajid Khan and Arbaaz Khan have also been making suggestions and I have been personally noting them down.

Your dear friend Aamir Khan recently commented that you will always be at number two...

Gauri will beat me up if I say anything about Aamir as she is an Aamir Khan fan. But we are very dear friends and we have our share of fun. Even if he is serious with his comment, I will take it as a compliment. Aamir is more intellectual and intelligent, but I'm more instinctive. I may be famous for K-K-K-Kiran, but he really loves Kiran.

Tell us about your next film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

Honestly, I have no idea about the story. All I know is that it's a romantic comedy. Adi (Aditya Chopra who is directing it) has been trying to narrate the story to me but I haven't had the time. Maybe he will drop in at 2 am. Actually, I never read Adi's or Karan's (Karan Johar) scripts.

Sandipan Dalal, Mumbai Mirror

'My Favorite subject was Geography' - Shahrukh Khan..

Shahrukh Khan who will soon be anchoring the new reality show on Star Plus, 'Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hai?'faces his set of primary grade questions... Check out whether the star is smarter than the fifth grader..

As the countdown to the one of a kind reality show, 'Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hai?' starts, viewers are waiting patiently to watch their favourite actor return to television as a host. Yes we are talking about none other than the Badshah of Bollywood, Shahrukh Khan, as he hosts the amazingly conceptualized show on Star Plus.

The game show is based on the international show 'Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader' in which grade school level questions are put to adults, wherein they go thro' the pressure of keeping their reputation high.

But as of now, there is a twist in the tale as we have put the host, Shahrukh Khan on the 'Hot Seat', facing the music of primary grade questions..

When asked which subject he enjoyed the most in school, Shahrukh replied, “I loved Geography and Biology, but somehow Geography was my favorite subject. Plateau, plain, stalagmites, stalactites; how lava is formed, fascinated me".

Immediately popped up the next question, so what is Geography? "Geography is the science that you can feel around you everyday”, comes the King Khan's reply. And when asked what the boiling point of water is, “100 degree celsius and 212 degree in Fahrenheit”, replied SRK.

Well, indeed SRK is surely smarter the a Fifth Grader, what say folks?

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"I said KkkKiran…Aamir really loves Kkkkiran" - Shahrukh Khan

“My wife has warned me if I say anything about Aamir she'll beat me up. She is an Aamir Khan fan,” said Shahrukh Khan replying to the raging controversial fire fanned by Aamir Khan yesterday by posing a question to SRK as to how does it feel being No. 2 to Aamir? Shahrukh was addressing the media along with his Indian Premiere League team Kolkata Knight Rider's Captain Saurav Ganguly and a few other players like Ishant Sharma, Akash Chopra and Murali Karthik in Mumbai today. Also present at the event was Juhi Chawla, Jai Mehta, Gauri Khan and Sanjay Kapoor.

“Aamir is a dear friend and if he says that I'm second to him then it's a great compliment to him….oops that was a genuine slip of tongue (amidst peals of laughter)…I mean it's a great compliment to me. We are complete opposites. He is an intelligent, intellectual person, I'm more physical. I do things. He thinks them out. I know his jokes, he knows mine. He is 100% No. 1…I just said Kkkk Kiran…he really loves Kkkkk Kiran (Again a round of collective laughter),” King Khan said lightheartedly.

While there were regular cricketing Q&A too but the Aamir-SRK controversy remained one of the big highlights of the press conference. When a poking journo reminded SRK about a statement, “There's Chengez Khan and then there's Shahrukh Khan” made before the release of Don on comparison with Salman (whose film Jaaneman was releasing simultaneously) and is Aamir upset that his name was excluded, SRK said, “There's Aamir, then there's me and then there's Chengez Khan I guess…that keeps changing….I'm proud of having learnt a lot from Aamir. One of my biggest desires in life is to do a film with Aamir and learn a lot from him. We should not belittle the importance of Aamir Khan by comparing with someone like me. He is a standalone, one of the nicest gentleman and actor in the country.”

As for the cricketing activities, King Khan showcased the hip shaking anthem Korbo Lorbo Jeetro Be which has been composed by Vishal-Shekhar, sung by Vishal Dadlani and directed by Ganesh Hegde. Yes, you shall see the OSO superstar showing a few mean dance moves in a novel attempt to glamourise cricket like never before. In an attempt to make cricket more entertaining, there was a live video conferencing with Knight Rider's mascot Hoog Lee, a laidback and fun Bengali tiger. And this is what Hoog Lee had to say:

Boys, girls, ladies and gentlemen
Let me bring you all 'the King's men'

We'll make you choke and lose your wicket
And I'm not just simply talking cricket

To slam a boundary or spin a googly
I'm your man and the name is…..HOOG LEE!

The Creed of Kolkota Knight Riders is tough and aggressive having the hard core competitive streak exemplified by its owner itself. Time to check it out:

We fight for passion. We fight for glory.
We believe no dream is too big to achieve.
We believe in winning in the game of life in spite of all the odds.
We believe losing is not an option.

We are here to conquer.
We are the Knight Riders.
We are the King's Men. We rule!

The ruthless creed also rubs onto a few of the names coined for a few individual players. Well Saurav Ganguly (Captain Courageous) and Ricky Ponting (Master Blaster) are regular names but Chris Gayle (Weapon of Mass Destruction), Ishant Sharma (Speed Merchant), Umar Gul (Toe Crusher) and physiotherapist Andrew Leipus (The 'Shape-up' Doc) are both unorthodox, eye catching and makes you say…hey….when do the games begin…Its April 18th that all of us waiting for. Isn't it!

Let's end on a lighter note. A journalist asked Shahrukh that with IPL all set the hog prime time television, what will happen to children looking forward to their cartoons or ladies desperate to follow up on their saas bahu serials. Wouldn't it cause discord in families? “Videocon ke chaar tv khareed lo…koi jhagde nahin honge….(amidst laughter)….tumhara answer bhi ho gaya aur meri branding bhi ho gayi…(laughs all around once again).”

We shall bring all the action in the video of this event soon. And yes, a big plus will be an exclusive video interview with Shahrukh Khan coming your way tomorrow morning where SRK sings his team's anthem….only on SRKTHEDON Broadband!

By Faridoon Shahryar for Bollywood Hungama