'Chak De! India' DVD to Release in the US and UK

Yash Raj's Shah Rukh Khan starrer, Chak De! India, entered the 50th uninterrupted day of its run in India, last Friday.

It has netted an impressive 60-crore plus(from India) so far and still has a lot of steam left.

However, in the Overseas, the Shimit Amin directed flick has more or less ended its run, but not before earning a neat profit of more than 5-crores for Yash Raj. The makers have now decided to release the original DVD in UK on October 8 and in the US, anytime this week. It would be a 2-disc DVD set, with a lot of interesting features and tidbits about the making of the film.

Abid, BollywoodTradeNewsNetwork

Chak De 'Girls'

We met the nine girls at a city multiplex.

Nisha: I was elated to be chosen for the movie. Whoever wouldn’t be? But I could never imagine that the film will be such a huge success. The adulations, the fame — it’s come all of a sudden and at first I did not know how to handle this, but I am now going with the flow, taking one step at a time. What about you Sandia?

Sandia : I am living every moment of it. I am getting loads of attention and I am really appreciating it. See, it all depends on you. You could get irritated or you could just learn to live with it. But, to tell you the truth, I do not want a lot of fame... that could be a curse. What do you think Chonchon?

Chonchon : You know, how in the movie Kabir Khan tells the girls to play their best game within the stipulated 70 minutes and how their lives will change after that. Kabir Khan was right. The movie has changed everything. It’s like a dream. It’s been a lot of hard work, but it was worth it.

Chitrashi : I am enjoying myself. If success has come to me, why wouldn't I make the most it? Even on the sets I used to get pampered by SRK. You girls used to tease me na ki main kaisi unki godi mein baith jaati thi. Haha! I had never thought of taking up acting, but now I am thinking. But, at the moment I am soaking in the experience of being loved so much.

Vidya : It was an honour for me to lead you girls. I have been a part of this glam world for long... I have been a model, done ads and films too. I think you girls are lucky. You have tasted success from the word go, but I know what it feels like to have success elude you. But Chak De! India has given me a different high. It’s so wonderful to be your Didi — onscreen and offscreen.

Shilpa : I am living it up. Wherever we are going people are coming up to me and saying how much they loved the movie and how we girls were so good. Yes, we are celebrating girl power. In fact, people have been telling me how jealous they are of me for having acted with SRK and for that scene where I try to seduce him. Imagine people being jealous of me! I hope to have many more ‘fame’ous moments.

Tanya : Now, that the movie has become a hit and people are recognising me, I am hoping to get a boyfriend. Boys are too scared of me. Mereko gussa itni jaldi aata hain na! And on top of that I am a judo player. I am hoping things will change now. Haha! But to tell you the truth I am enjoying myself. People are asking me to take up acting full time. Let’s see what kind of offer I get. But I plan to complete my studies first.

Arya : You know life is ironical. I was always scared of being mobbed and remember how in Australia people had surrounded me? I cried for help and look at us now. Well, to tell the truth, I am not handling fame well. But I am getting there. I am learning to be diplomatic and not being the spitfire that I usually am. SRK is a dream I admired him as an actor, but now I admire the man. He is so very humble!

Shubhi : I have been a choreographer, been an anchor, hosted events and I thought that I am qualified enough to handle fame. But the truth is that right now fame is handling me. I think that with Chak De! India, we have all become a team and we are helping each other out even when we are out on tours. My dream would be to host a Filmfare award with SRK and then I will ask my parents to look for a boy and settle down and have children (Laughs).

JayeetaGanguly, TimesofIndia

Chak De Phatte!

Chak De Phatte’ wait a min was that wrong, oh yaaah! It’s ‘Chak De India’. A slight alteration in the name and see what a sensation it has become all over the world.

The film Chak De India starring SRK and 16 new girls, has been, talk of the town. It’s bound to accumulate the best awards for this year.

Shimit Amin the director and Jaideep Sahni story writer had gone through an extensive research for the film. And it has paid off well. Amul in its new print ad celebrates the success of Chak De India. The Amul girl dressed in the uniform joins the SRK on the field.

Source: IndiaFM

Chak De India Second weekend performance

One can't remember any movie coming after RANG DE BASANTI which fetched such unanimous appreciation from all corners. While some sections of media had gone all out to paint a poor picture about the film throughout it's making, the audiences came up with a tight slap of it's own as they praised the film to the skies. By the time the Wednesday holiday of 15th August was through, the writing was clear on the wall.

Collecting more than 20 crores in the first week with A, B as well as C centers coming up with heartfelt collections, this offbeat yet thoroughly entertaining film is now en route to be a huge success. The film did tremendous in Mumbai which contributed with more than 5 crores. Delhi was terrific too with 2.5 crores + whereas NCR was tremendous with more than 1.75 crores coming in. Pune was superb with 1.25 crores + while Ahmedabad too came close to 1 crore mark, hence making CHAK DE INDIA an all around success. The way film is being patronized, expect a fall of only around 35% in the second week.

Shahrukh Khan did have a money spinner in KANK followed by a designated hit in DON but still certain sections of media preferred to paint an alternate picture. Thankfully with CHAK DE INDIA, there are no justifications for doing otherwise as the audience has come out in full force for the film. YRF too get one of their most 'respected' earners in the recent time while Shimit Amin finds himself to be recognized as a film maker who can direct an underworld film with as much panache as a sports based film.

The only film that survived the CHAK DE INDIA onslaught and stayed on to be audience favorite was PARTNER. Collecting close to 4 crores after seeing a drop of only around 40% in it's 4th week, the film is standing at close to 58.5 crores and is all set to break the 60 crore barrier as the week comes to a close. Mumbai held on excellently with further contribution of 80 lakhs though Delhi fell from 65 lakhs to 30 lakhs.

In the future

A baby is all set to slaughter a young romantic lead this weekend as HEYY BABYY comes face to face with a small film called KAISE KAHE. HEYY BABYY has created immense hype around itself and is expected to take a very good start (70%-80%) all over. A family film, it would attract audience across all age groups. On the other hand the only hope KAISE KAHE has is a spill over audience, though even that isn't much of a possibility due to a show-an-hour release which HEYY BABYY is enjoying at the multiplexes!

Source: IndiaGlitz

I hope one day I’ll be cast as SRk's heroine: Vidhya Malvade

VM candidly shares her dream...

...of playing the quintessential heroine to Shah Rukh Khan. In the film, her character is linked to Khan’s Kabir Khan, still she doesn’t appear to be his heroine. “I had more sequences with him in the film; I wish they were retained. I hope one day I’ll be cast as his heroine,” says Malvade.

Two of Khan’s biggest fans (she and me) are soon ebulliently discussing his stubble. “One of us told him he looked hot with the stubble; it left him blushing,” she laughs.

Source: FinancialExpress

Shah rukh khan's Team 'The Chak De Girls'

They came from all parts of India. Some were professional players, others held a hockey stick for the first time...

Anaitha Nair, 21
Bangalore

On field: Aliya Bose
Position: Right Out
Jersey No. 7
How I was picked:
I got third time lucky after missing out on the film’s hockey and acting auditions. So it was five months from my first audition in February to my making it to the team last June. I was one of the few with zero hockey experience. I had done English theatre in Bangalore for five years, a Malayalam film, By the People, apart from a brief role in Phir Milenge.
The best and the worst:
Getting into the mental discipline of a sportsperson was quite difficult as I’ve never had even a remote connection with any sport.
SRK moment:
Every moment initially. We were so thrilled that he was around though later of course we got used to it.
Next move:
My next release is going to be the Nagesh Kukunoor directed Aashaye opposite John Abraham.Chak de means: It’s a term of celebration.



Tania Abrol,21
Abohar, Punjab

On field:
Balbir Kaur
Position: Full back
Jersey No. 3
How I was picked:
The production team was scouting around colleges in Punjab and found Tania in MCM DAV College in Chandigarh. ‘‘They told me to hit the ball and say a few lines,’’ says Tania. She hit it hard and was called to Mumbai for another round of auditions.
The best and the worst:
The worst was definitely the alarm going off at 3.30 am and the run for the practise sessions. ‘‘But once there, we had a rocking time. We forgot all about our injuries, bruised ankles, back aches, and just got down to the game.’’
SRK moment:
The Main Hoon Naa hug he gives everyone on the sets and all of us playing soccer with him.
Next move:
Studies—she’s in third year college—but who knows it could be films after that!
Chak de means: A milestone in my life.

Shubhi Mehta, 28
Delhi

On field: Gunjan Lakhani
Position: Right HalfM
Jersey No. 4
How I was picked:
Being an MTV roadie finalist, I was asked if I would like to go for the film’s hockey auditions. Next happened my acting audition and that worked fine too as I had done theatre in Bangalore.
The best and the worst:
The best thing was that I got to learn hockey. The worst was that I got injured a lot.
SRK moment:
On the first day of the shoot, I was sitting in a corner of the cloakroom on a small stool. Shah Rukh walked up and asked if he could share it with me. We sat there chatting for nearly 20 minutes and then I asked him a really silly question, ‘Do you enjoy acting?’ He replied, ‘‘I guess after 16 years I am supposed to enjoy it,’’ before adding, ‘‘Choti choti stulon par aisi badi badi batein hoti hain…’’
Next move:
A couple of scripts have come my way.
Chak de means: Sportsman spirit. It’s a magic call that lifts you.

Sagarika Ghatge, 20
Mumbai

On field: Preeti Sabarwal
Position:Centre forward
Jersey No. 9
How I was picked:
I’ve always wanted to be an actress but my parents insisted I complete my graduation. So the day my BCom final exams were over, I went for the audition with a few of my regular photographs. I didn’t even have a portfolio. But I was selected on the day of my audition itself. I was the last one to join the team.
The best and the worst:
Getting to know so many people and keeping pace with Shah Rukh sir was the high point. Getting up at 4.30 am for training was the tough bit.
SRK moment:
My entry scene where I was supposed to show attitude, but I was so nervous of Shah Rukh that I could hardly do it convincingly. But he gave me some tips.
Next move: I’ve got film offers.
Chak de means: Play your heart out and make India proud.

Arya Menon, 19
Bangalore

On field: Gul Iqbal
Position: Left
Jersey No. 10
How I was picked:
Having played school level hockey I went for the film’s Bangalore auditions just for the heck of it. My Hindi wasn’t too good, so I didn’t think I would be selected. However, one of the film’s assistant directors who saw my hockey audition liked my performance and I was called for the role after a month.
The best and the worst:
We trained for two months and then all through the film’s shoot. The best thing about training was meeting so many wonderful people.
SRK moment:
When I saw him with the stubble I told him, ‘Please don’t shave off the beard, you look so hot in it!’ And he bragged about it to every one.
Next move:
I definitely see a career for myself in south Indian cinema.
Chak de means: Fun! Let go! The most awesome experience ever!

Seema Azmi, 30
Azamgarh, UP

On field: Rani Dispotta
Position: Right Defender
Jersey No. 2
How I was picked:
I am an NSD graduate and have acted in many films including Water. The casting director had seen my work and I guess they thought I fitted in. My mother tongue Bhojpuri helped my essaying the character of the Jharkhandi girl Rani better.
The best and the worst:
The training was great but I hated waking up at 3.30 am in the morning.
SRK moment:
The way he used to recharge us with his infectious spirit especially when we were all tired. I liked the way he would exhort us for another run with his signature shout of ‘Bhago India bhago!’
Next move:
I am currently directing a play on war widows called The Silent Front in Bangalore. I have some interesting character roles in Hindi films as well.
Chak de means: An experience that has changed my whole life.

Vidya Malvade, 32
Mumbai

On field: Vidya Sharma
Position: Goalie and Captain
Jersey No. 18
How I was picked:
The casting director had seen me on my travel show. So, there I was playing the goalie and the captain—even though I had no association with hockey.
The best and the worst:
The training taught us the spirit of the game, so much so that when I held the Cup as captain, I cried spontaneously. The toughest part was getting into the pads initially and getting the moves right. But being a Kathak dancer helped.
SRK moment:
My first scene with him that had only him, me and a hockey stick and I hit his leg with my first move. But he just said chill and taught me how to wield it right.
Next move:
I am doing Sanjay Gadhvi’s Kidnap and Junction starring Abhay Deol.
Chak de means: Just go for what you believe in!

Kimberly Miranda, 21
Mumbai

On field: Rachna Prasad
Position: Utility Player (one who can play any position)
Jersey No. 14
How I was picked:
The director and the casting agent came to my college, St Andrew’s, during Sunday practice and watched me play. Later they asked me if I was interested in being a part of the film. I said yes because it is about a sport that is close to my heart.
The best and the worst:
The fitness was the best thing. The worst was that sometimes you over-did your exercises.
SRK moment:
In Australia, we used to play football after the shoot. SRK is a good footballer.
Next move:
A graduate in History from Khalsa College and a state hockey player, Miranda has shifted focus to football. Is currently a senior level footballer representing Maharashtra.
Chak de means: India!

Nichola Sequeira, 17
Mumbai

On field: Nichola
Position: Bench and also a Utility player
Jersey No. 12
How I was picked:
A friend had gone for an audition and recommended my name. The casting agent then came down during a tournament at St Andrew’s College where I study and saw me play. They offered me a role but then decided against it because I was only 16. But they changed their mind.
The best and the worst:
I practice regularly so there is nothing particularly good or bad about it.
SRK moment:
In a scene, which was later edited out, my character was to replace Gunjan. The scene was not shot in sync-sound so SRK came up to me and said, ‘‘I can’t think of anything to say, so I will quietly mouth ABCD, make sure you don’t laugh.’’
Next move:
I’m clueless. I guess sports, hockey.
Chak de means: Hockey and India.

Raynia Mascarenhas, 21
Mumbai

Played: Raynia
Position: Utility player
Jersey No.16
How I was picked:
I have played hockey and represented Mumbai. I read an article in the newspaper and got interested. So my mother who works with Radio City got in touch with some friends who put me through Yashraj Studios.
The best and the worst:
Nothing apart from the fact that it was really grilling and that too is both a good thing and a bad thing.
SRK moment:
He took us clubbing in Melbourne and later we all partied the night away at our apartment.
Next move:
I just want to concentrate on my job now. I work with Spice Jet in the ground support control department.
Chak de means: All the 16 girls in the team.

Nisha Nair, 20
Mumbai

On field: Soi Moi
Position: Defence
Jersey No. 17
How I was picked:
I am a state level player. The casting agent came to BHA (Bombay Hockey Association) and I was asked to audition and later they let me know that I’d been chosen for the part.
The best and the worst:
There is nothing better than playing hockey or football in the rain. There was no bad part.
SRK moment:
Meeting him for the first time on the field at BHA and later playing football after a shoot in Melbourne.
Next move: Studies and sports.
Chak de means: Hockey.

Lalhming Kimi, 20
Mizoram

On field: Mary
Position: Defender
How I was picked:
A goalkeeper in her state team, her game and a great voice got her the role.
The best and the worst:
Hockey came easy to her.
Next Move:
Kimi is all set to graduate from player to coach—she’s pursuing a diploma in hockey coaching from Netaji Subhash National Institute of Sports, Patiala.

Sandia Furtado, 20
Mumbai

On Field: Nethra Reddy
Position: Left Out
Jersey No. 11
How I was picked:
I had dropped in at the Yashraj office to meet my mum who was auditioning some of the actors for the movie. That’s when the casting director saw me and suggested I get on board.
The best and the worst:
The best thing about the training was doing the stunts.
SRK moment:
There’s a scene where I am being bullied by Bindiya and Shah Rukh just comes along and puts his arm around me. A lot of people really envied me.
Next move:
I am a third year student of sociology and anthropology and first want to be done with college. I am open to doing ads but films are a strict no till I finish college.
Chak de means: Being one.

Chonchon Zimik, 24
Manipur

On field: Molly
Position: Left Half (back)
Jersey No. 6
How I was picked:
A fashion design student from IITC, Pune, Zimik’s friend recommended her to a casting agent from Yashraj Films. ‘‘I was called for an audition. It was a hilarious experience because I was asked to say some fighting dialogues in Hindi. I don't speak Hindi well so the entire effect was rather comic. But I guess it worked.
The best and the worst:
I trained for three months and I am happy that I can now play our national sport. Waking up at 4:30 am everyday for three months was the tough bit!
SRK moment:
I’m clumsy and I was always getting into a spot. Shah Rukh always laughed at that and I can never forget that smile and that twinkle in his eye when he would look at me.
Next move:
Post film, I was slightly confused. But I’ll be realistic, I am not exactly what Bollywood is looking for. I work in Mumbai in a fashion designing workshop and will stick to fashion designing. But if there is a good role in a film that deals with the North-East or my state, then I am game for it.
Chak de means: Victory!

Chitrashi Rawat, 17
Dehra Dun

On field: Komal Chautala
Position: Right In
Jersey No. 8
How I was picked:
I had gone to Jabalpur as a member of the Uttaranchal hockey team to play in the national women’s tournament when I was asked to come for the audition. The film’s director saw me play the left striker in a couple of matches after which I was selected.
The best and the worst:
Though I am a professional player I got to learn a lot on the techniques used in international hockey. On the personal front, since I was the youngest team member, everyone pampered me silly. However, the worst thing was getting up every day at 4am for practice that would continue till 2 pm.
SRK moment:
There is a scene where Shah Rukh hugs and lifts me. We did so many retakes of the scene that by the time it was finally canned I had begun to smell like him.
Next move:
I intend completing my graduation in Mass Media and I will be playing hockey for my college from September. As for acting, the offer has to be really exciting. For now, she’s content doing her Haryanvi Komal Chautala act for friends.
Chak de means: An emotional mantra for motivation.

Shilpa Shukla, 26
Hazipur

On field: Bindiya Naik
Position: Centre Half
Jersey No. 5
How I was picked:
Having worked in theatre for six years I was fine about the acting bit, the hockey part was a bit dicey. Casting director Abhimanyu and director Shimit Amin had seen my performance in Khamosh Paani and were keen on casting me. I too was keen on playing the 'bad girl'. So I landed up at the audition, the only girl with a hockey stick, two days after my husband gifted me one on Valentine's Day.
The best and the worst:
I had never imagined I would ever go through six hours of daily practice. The high point was being coached by Mir Ranjan Negi (former Indian player and coach).
SRK moment:
It’s the Zipper scene when I come on to Shah Rukh. Though I was never daunted by his star status, after doing the scene I was literally shivering for two or three minutes. I wrote my experience of doing that scene on a card and gave it to him. He read it and gave me an assuring hug.
Next move:
I have signed a film, Junction, opposite Abhay Deol
Chak de means: Urja, energy, enthusiasm and power.

Source: IndianExpress

An encounter between teams of Shah Rukh Khan and Sunil Shetty

Come September 11, Chandigarh will witness an absorbing feast of hockey featuring an encounter between teams of Shah Rukh Khan and Sunil Shetty.

Shah Rukh’s team India will take on a team of Bollywood and TV stars in an exhibition game after Asian hockey giants India and Pakistan play a friendly game at the Sector 42 hockey stadium the same evening.

This unusual hockey gala event featuring top stars and the entire cast of “Chak De India” is the brainchild of Sunil Shetty, the game ambassador of the Indian Hockey Federation.

India and Pakistan will field their full strength teams here.

The sports department of the Chandigarh administration has agreed to make available the flood-lit stadium for the night-long event.

The event has been planned to coincide with the holding of the Asia Cup Hockey Championship for men in Chennai. The Asia Cup concludes on September 9. Both India and Pakistan teams will then travel to Chandigarh for the friendly game, to be followed by the exhibition match.

To make the event more colourful and entertaining, some prominent singers, including Punjabi folk singers, will also perform.

“It will be an evening dedicated to hockey, fun and entertainment,” says Hardeep Singh Sandhu, a Mumbai-based hockey player and a member of the organising team.

There will be no entry fee for the event, which will continue late at night.

The proceeds from the event, which will only come through sponsorship and TV coverage, will go toward promoting hockey at the grassroots.

Sources reveal that movie stars, who have no shooting on the day such promotional hockey events are organised, will participate without charging any fee.

Source: TheTribuneChandigarh

SRK's love interest in Chak De ! India

After watching Yash Chopra’s Chak De India directed by Shimit Aman, I am now sure that there is hope as far as Hindi Cinema is concerned.

Chak De India makes a riveting viewing and when the film is on you do not even feel like going to the loo. Shah Rukh Khan who had mesmerized me with his natural acting when he had sauntered in with Raj Kanwar’s Deewana almost seventeen years ago has actually ‘acted’ in a film of his after a long time.

It is great to see Shah Rukh Khan in great form as a coach whose singular am is to train the women hockey team in Chak De India. He does not carry with him his typical mannerisms as a star. He does not cavort around the trees with any nubile nymphet. In fact, there is no leading lady for Shah Rukh Khan in Chak De India though there is a veiled reference to his affair with Vidya Malavade. I am told that though Shimit had shot a flash back sequence of SRK with Vidya, it was edited out keeping in mind the tight narrative of the film, since after two debacles like Tara Rum Pum and Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, Yashraj Films did not want to take yet another panga with the audience.

With Chak De India , SRK has at last come of age, as an actor. SRK has always been frank and does not mince words when he chooses to give you an interview. Kudos to SRK for going on record stating that it was a different experience for him to work with most of the sixteen young girls who had acted in the film with him since they must have been around six yearsold when he had made his debut seventeen years back.

Like Parineeta and Lage Raho Munnabhai earlier and Chak De India now, like SRK, I also have had a reality check and am beginning to feel ancient, like SRK. Because Sagarika Ghatge who has rendered a brilliant performance for a first timer in Chak De India as Chandigarh‘s hockey player Preeti Sabharwal happens to be the daughter of my good friend Vijay Ghatge who had directed Shubh Yatra earlier. Though Vijay does not want Sagarika to be known as the daughter of the director who had made Shubh Yatra, I have told Vijay that Sagarika need not be ashamed to admit that she is his daughter since he had made an off beat film like Shubh Yatra and not a C grade film like say Reshma Ki Jawani.

Time For a Reality Check in Bollywood!

The new generation is now all set to rock Bollywood in a big way. Chak De India!

Source: Afternoon & DespatchCourier

Chak De India sizzles at multiplexes

Business Talk With Taran Adarsh

Winning critical acclaim is one thing. Raking in big money at the box-office is another. It's not right to mix the two. Let me come to the point right away. CHAK DE INDIA has won tremendous acclaim from all quarters. It's an amazing film in all respects. In fact, the makers deserve brownie points for making an unconventional film with the topmost star of Bollywood. But box-office is a different story altogether…

CHAK DE INDIA started slow, picked up on Saturday and showed a jump on Sunday. At multiplexes of big centres, especially at Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore, the film has had a glorious weekend. But the subject and its execution limits it to big city audiences. It's not a film that holds universal appeal [a fact seconded by the Overseas figures]. That explains why its business at single screens ranges from average to below average.

Had CHAK DE INDIA embarked on a 90% + start everywhere [ideally, it should've started with a bang, given the fact that the two giants - YRF and SRK - had been teamed after a hiatus; it can't get bigger than that!] and with Saturday and Sunday figures matching those of Friday, CHAK DE INDIA would've been declared a massive Hit.

But CHAK DE INDIA started on a 40% - 60% note at several screens, but was 20% - 30% at several centres too. Reports from Punjab say that CHAK DE INDIA had a 10% - 20% start at some stations. Things did improve over the weekend, but Monday onwards, while the multiplexes of big centres are performing well [60% +], at centres like Indore [one of the key barometers], the collections at multiplexes on Monday were at par [or lower] with Friday. Have a quick look at the Indore figures -

PVR
Fri - 1,28,000 Sat - 1,89,000 Sun - 2,10,500 Mon - 1,06,600 Tue - 1,12,000
Velocity
Fri - 70,100 Sat - 1,23,000 Sun - 1,69,500 Mon - 43,000 Tue - 56,000
Inox
Fri - 76,000 Sat - 1,16,500 Sun - 2,14,000 Mon - 565,000 Tue - 70,000
Adlabs
Fri - 1,01,200 Sat - 1,63,000 Sun - 1,81,800 Mon - 74,000 Tue - 81,200

Wednesday, 15th August being Independence Day holiday, CHAK DE INDIA got a big boost and the business at multiplexes was impressive.

So what's the final verdict on CHAK DE INDIA? It's good at multiplexes of big centres. In Mumbai, Delhi, Mysore and also a few circuits where multiplexes do contribute to the booty, it stands a good chance of raking in money. Also, it all depends on how it fares in its second weekend.

Source: IndiaFM

Chak De India has no romance and no villain: SRK

More than 2,000 movie buffs attended the world premiere of Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Chak de India, a film on women's hockey in India, at the famous Somerset House. Describing it as a new experience, Khan told the packed gathering at the open air theatre ....

that it was a different kind of movie, "a little irregular film".

"It has a noble thought. It is important to talk about team spirit, women and their role in the world," he told the cheering crowd.

The premiere was part of the film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House and one of the glittering highlights of 'India Now', a three-month season celebrating London's growing relationship with India and exploration of India's culture and contribution to London life.

Produced by Aditya Chopra and directed by Shimit Amin, Chak de India is the comeback story of an ageing hockey player (Khan). The two-and-a-half-hour-long film, which kept the audience spell bound, has Khan starring as a coach, fighting his personal demons as he takes a motley group of girls to the pinnacle of the world hockey.

London Mayor Ken Livingstone, who was present on the podium with Khan, said "we have many wonderful events taking place across London throughout the three months duration of 'India Now' and the world premiere of Chak de India is undoubtedly one of the biggest and most exciting.

"It is a great honour for London to host this launch event for a film, which, like so many Bollywood blockbusters, touches the hearts and minds of millions across the world."

Asked whether he has any advice to Indian coaches, be it hockey or any other game, on how to win, Khan said "I am only an actor. What advice I can give. It is the job of the coaches to prepare the teams and win matches."

About Chak de India, he said "this is a film about sports. There had been films on sports like Lagaan and others. I always wanted to do a film on sports, particularly on field and women hockey, much neglected in cinema."

"I play the coach. I have 16 girls around me playing hockey. It has no songs but only sporting capabilities. The film has no romance and no villain."

Earlier in the day, the actor joined Sunil Gavaskar in the commentator box at The Oval during India's third and final Test against England, where he said "I occasionally watch Rahul and Sachin and I have grown up watching Sunny Saab."

Khan was buoyant when asked about his sporting lineage. "My father used to play hockey. I too enjoyed playing hockey. I used to carry my hockey stick on my back when I went to school. I used to try and play all sports. I kept running behind the ball all the time but never used to catch it."

He said Chak de India is not country-specific. "It can be Chak de London, Chak de Pakistan or Chak de Bangladesh."

Khan said the audience in UK has always been very kind to him. "I am humbled by the reception I get here."

"Winning or losing is not all that important. What is important is participation in sports. This film teaches sportsmen and women to be positive and aggressive," he said.

Replying to a question, Khan said he spent a month in Australia playing with National Level women hockey players.

Source: KhaleejTimes

Chak De India is the most authentic, meticulously researched sports movie India has made

Yay, yay. Hear it for hockey, for sports movies, and yes, SRK. Chak De, India is by far the most authentic, meticulously researched sports movie India has made. Sure, there are some populist cracks against cricket and cocky cricketers which will gladden the hearts of those who don’t worship at the game’s altar, and yes, there do exist such creatures in India, unbelievable thought it may sound. But ‘Chak De’ is a movie which goes about its purpose seriously : to show how a beloved sport, having fallen into the clutches of opportunists and bagmen, and petty, greedy, self-serving Dilli babus, can be rescued, with vision and determination.

It’s not all rousing action and winning streaks, though. The first half, especially, is predictable, and a little stodgy, in the way it brings state champions into Delhi’s national stadium, and has coach Kabir Khan holler at them: I don’t want to hear the names of states, I only want to hear the name of my mulk, India. Welcome excitement creeps in, post interval, as the rag-tag team, gets whipped into shape, and goes on to win the world cup.

What makes Shimit Amin’s film, his second after the gritty Ab Tak Chappan, stand out from the Yashraj clutter this year, is its ability to keep the tracks undiluted. None of the girls breaks into song and dance, and no one is allowed to show skin. Yes, really. Even when one of them comes onto the coach, in her desire to be made captain, we only hear the sound of the zip. Khan zips the jacket right back up, and with that, seals her desire to be part of Team India.

So does Shah Rukh cut it as a hockey player cum coach? This is SRK in realistic mode again, after Swades. When Coach Khan and his girls are out on the field, whacking everything in sight, and rampaging through the world’s best teams, you think, hey, that looks do-able. When you hear a mob targeting the disgraced Kabir, who muffs a penalty shot in the dying moments of an important match at the peak of his career, as a Muslim and a gaddaar, you can see the pain and anguish in SRK’s eyes. That’s real, too. But Kabir Khan doesn’t get as far from SRK, as NASA scientist Mohan Bhargav in Swades did.

Still, it is a brave role, executed with finesse, minus starry flourish. And some of the girls spark into life in the best moments in the film: especially the tiny Haryanvi spitfire, the Punjabi lass who lets fly in anger at the drop of a hockey stick, and the pretty thing from Chandigarh who wants to show her cricketing boyfriend just who the real star is. That’s hockey, and the game. Chak De.

By: Shubhra Gupta & Shalini Langer Source: EconomicTimes

Chak De India received a warm welcome

After flooring cine lovers in London, Chak De India - first Indian film based on country's women's hockey team- released to a tremendous response across the country on Friday.

The film, which stars Shahrukh Khan, revolves around the story of a women hockey team that goes onto win a World Cup.

The film received a warm welcome from cricket crazy Indian audience for its subject and storyline.

"The movie was really very nice. It was worth," said one of the cine goers, who admitted of being a great fan of cricket star Sachin Tendulkar than Shahrukh Khan.

"The film gives a push to women hockey players as it could revive public interest in the dying game, which is also our national games," she added.

This film is a shift from a regular Bollywood movie as it diverts from the usual and delves into the unexplored arena of sports.

"The film is very good. It's a complete Shah Rukh Khan film with lots of sporting action," said another viewer.

Not many films have been made on the subject and after 'Lagaan'-which was made on cricket, its 'Chak De India' that comes packed with a heavy dose of hockey for the audiences.

'Chak De India' is a story of a coach's fight of making his team overcome obstacles and motivate his team members to a historic victory.

"What happens to people who play it and what goes on a regular daily basis when you play it? How much training is done, how much drama happens behind the scene. What kinds of characters play this sport? Who plays it actually, when nobody really wants to play and what kind of women are involved in playing this. I had to gain that kind of knowledge," said Shimit Amin, director of the movie whose earlier directed 'Ab Tak Chappan" received rave reviews.

The story depicts a hockey team consisting of a rag-tag bunch of girls who get disillusioned with the system and resort to other games just to get a pensioned job and a secure future.

Their interest and passion is revived by a forgotten a hockey coach, played by Khan, who enters into their lives and fuels them with a new vigour and enthusiasm to take up the sport with a new agenda- to bring laurel for their country.

The film also stars model Vidya Malvade along with a plethora of newcomers including one real life hockey player.

The film is devoid of the typical song-and-dance routine characteristic to Bollywood films.

"It has a very serious take. People who think after seeing a film will like it. People who just want more entertainment, they might be a bit disappointed and say, 'Oh, this is not having a song at all'. But, I think every good thinking person will enjoy the fact that we have attempted something like this," Khan said.

The character of Kabir Khan, the hockey coach, is believed to be inspired by a real-life former goalie Mir Ranjan Negi, who was charged with allegations of match fixing after India lost to Pakistan in 1982 Asian Games.

Seven years later Negi's honour was restored when he was absolved of the charges. He coached the national women's hockey team to win gold at the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games.

Source: DailyIndia

“Chak De! India” ( “Go, India!” ) - NYT Review

The making-of-a-team sports movie is a timeworn genre, and yet “Chak De! India” (“Go, India!”) finds new variations. Though the game here is field hockey, those fondly recalling the United States soccer team’s first-place finish in the 1991 Women’s World Cup will find a lot to like.

Of course, there are conventions. Kabir Khan (the assured Bollywood veteran Shahrukh Khan) is a former player for India’s national field hockey team who missed a fateful play against Pakistan, costing a championship and making him a pariah. Seven years later, he is hired to coach the nation’s women’s hockey team, giving him one more shot at a title.

The players, from states all over India, are a fractious lot, including a tomboy (Chitrashi Rawat) whose father fears she will never marry; a forward (Sagarika Ghatge) whose boyfriend, a cricket superstar, wants her to quit the team and live in his shadow; a newlywed goalie (Vidya Malavade) whose in-laws expect her to stay at home; and a haughty, seasoned player (Shilpa Shukla) who needles the coach.

When leering boys at a McDonald’s harass them, a girls-against-boys melee erupts, but the coach doesn’t interfere, knowing the team will prevail — and find its spirit. From there, it’s on to the women’s hockey championships in Melbourne, Australia.

The director, Shimit Amin, strikes a buoyant, propulsive tone, replacing the customary Bollywood production numbers with exhilarating musical montages of team practice. For his part, Mr. Khan, to his credit, lets his co-stars’ youthful charisma carry the movie. He also laudably portrays a man who vigorously and unabashedly advocates the advancement of women.

In fact, the film’s greatest merit is its commentary on sexism in India. As it should, “Chak De! India” gives the women, in the closing credits, the last word.

CHAK DE! INDIA

Opened yesterday nationwide.

Directed by Shimit Amin; written (in Hindi, with English subtitles) by Jaideep Sahni; edited by Amitabh Shukla; music by Salim Merchant and Sulaiman Merchant; art director, Sukant Panigrahy; produced by Aditya Chopra; released by Yash Raj Films. In Manhattan at the Imaginasian Theater, 239 East 59th Street. Running time: 152 minutes. This film is not rated.

WITH: Shahrukh Khan (Kabir Khan), Vidya Malavade (Vidya Sharma), Chitrashi Rawat (Komal), Sagarika Ghatge (Preeti) and Shilpa Shukla (Bindia Naik).

By: ANDY WEBSTER Source: NewYorkTimes

Chak De India - Synopsis

SYNOPSIS

Jo nahin ho sakta hai, wahi to karna hai...

Kabir Khan (Shah Rukh Khan) knows what it's like to come back from the dead. The ex India Captain has now come back in the avatar of the Coach of the Indian Women's National Hockey team. A team that exists more on paper and less in reality.

The team is a rag-tag bunch of girls with their own agenda. A bunch of girls who have forgotten what it is like to play for the love of the game. Of playing because you want glory for your country. Not because you want a pensioned job or a government flat. They have all forgotten the sharp thrill of just holding the hockey stick, keeping their eyes on the ball and playing for all they are worth. They have played every game but hockey to make sure they get selected every year in the Indian National team. But what does it really mean to play for the Indian National team? To play for India?

Mujhe sirf ek mulk ka naam sunaai deta hai - India

The girls have never known the thrilling energy of being Team India. Of giving their all to see their country's name on a trophy. But Kabir Khan, once a captain, now forgotten, does. He knows what it takes to get there. And what it means to return empty handed. This time, he wants to make sure that it's different. He knows there are no second changes. Despite his past, he believes that if only the girls played as one, anything would be possible.

Because Kabir Khan believes that it is not that we can't win. It's just that we have never believed we can.

Chak De India is the story of a coach's fight of making his team, Team India - by overcoming their diverse background, by learning to use everything that life hults on them as a secret weapon. It's a story about honesty, sincerity and integrity. A story to remind the nation of its National Sport.

Chak De India - Movie Review

The Yash Raj - SRK combo is back. No lush green fields here. No running around trees either. No chiffon sarees to make the ladies look their best. No melodrama, no parental opposition, no lovers defying their parents. CHAK DE INDIA, directed by Shmit Amin, charters a new territory.

Yash Raj is not really known to venture into unconventional lanes, barring a KABUL EXPRESS in the recent past. CHAK DE INDIA isn't unconventional as such, but it's definitely different and awe inspiring at times. Frankly speaking, CHAK DE INDIA doesn't boast of a path-breaking script, but execution of the subject material succeeds in making you find purpose and meaning and also arouses patriotic sentiments.

There's a flip side as well. Sports-based themes, barring a few, haven't really found many takers in India, especially with the aam junta. For various reasons. Sure, hockey is the national sport of India, but cricket gets more prominence in our dailies and also on news channels. The common man also keeps tabs on the Tendulkars and Dravids, when compared to those belonging to other sports. CHAK DE INDIA is about hockey, about women's hockey to be precise, but most of us haven't given more importance to this thrilling sport for no particular reason.

Also, from the business point of view, CHAK DE INDIA may be an engrossing fare, but not the ideal flick for an entertainment-seeking viewer. At best, it may attract attention initially thanks to the star power and the Numero Uno production house promoting it aggressively. But that's about it!

Kabir Khan [Shah Rukh Khan] knows what it's like to come back from the dead. The ex Indian Captain has now come back in the avatar of the Coach of the Indian Women's National Hockey team. A team that exists more on paper and less in reality.

The team is a bunch of girls with their own agenda. A bunch of girls who have forgotten what it is like to play for the love of the game. Of playing because you want glory for your country. Not because you want a pensioned job or a government flat. They have all forgotten the sharp thrill of just holding the hockey stick, keeping their eyes on the ball and playing for all they are worth. They have played every game but hockey to make sure they get selected every year in the Indian National team. But what does it really mean to play for the Indian National team? To play for India?

The girls have never known the thrilling energy of being Team India. Of giving their all to see their country's name on a trophy. But Kabir Khan, once a captain, now forgotten, does. He knows what it takes to get there. And what it means to return empty handed. This time, he wants to make sure that it's different. He knows there are no second chances. Despite his past, he believes that if only the girls played as one, anything would be possible.

Because Kabir Khan believes that it is not that we can't win. It's just that we have never believed we can.

CHAK DE INDIA is the story of a coach's fight of making his team, Team India by overcoming their diverse backgrounds, by learning to use everything that life hurls on them as a secret weapon.

The film has all the right elements mixed -- satirical comedy, seriousness and dollops of emotions. In fact, the first half is quite captivating and the expectations from the latter half are equally high. The post-interval portions don't disappoint, but the pace slackens and the goings-on take a long time to reach the finale. In fact, the narrative gathers steam only towards the climax, which is well handled.

Shimit Amin's choice of the subject as also the execution deserves to be lauded. But, as mentioned at the outset, it's not a film that would find universal patronage. People giving it a Thumbs Up would be limited to those who are into qualitative cinema.

Cinematography is first-rate. Music is strictly okay. Dialogues are interesting. A few lines are indeed amazing. Editing could've been tighter.

SRK is the soul of CHAK DE INDIA. What you see on screen would be half of what it is without this matchless actor. He makes you feel what you are supposed to feel. A performance that's sure to go down as one of his finest works so far. The girls are excellent and a few of them register a strong impact, especially Vidya Malvade.

On the whole, CHAK DE INDIA is a well-made product, but its fate at the ticket window wouldn't be as glorious as its intentions. With a slow start at places and not too exciting promotion [the promos], the film will face an uphill task in days to come.

Source: IndiaFM

Chak De India - Music Review

Album: Chak De India
Music Director: Salim Merchant & Sulaiman Merchant
Lyricist: Jaideep Sahni

A refreshing album in terms of music and lyrics. Songs stand out because of the different sounding lyrics. Instead of the tried and tested ‘dil’, ‘deewana’ words, the Jaideep Sahni (is he new?) does a wonderful job as the song writer.

Chak De India
Singers: Sukhwinder Singh, Salim Merchant and Marianne DCruz

An energetic song, sung beautifully by Sukhwinder. This song extends the ‘Karam kar, phal ki aasha na kar’ preaching of Bhagavad Gita. The song has wordings worth listening to. Sukhwinder pumps in enough energy for the listeners to start pumping their fist. Ignoring the common sports based theme, this song reminds me of Lagaan’s ‘Chale Chalo’. The tune is catchy and motivating. A song to listen to whenever you need a pep talk. You would want to get up and do something because Sukhwinder is saying ‘Kuch kariye’!

Badal Pe Paon Hain
Singer: Hema Sardesai

Hema Sardesai is back with a bang after a hiatus (At least I didn’t notice her anywhere. Apologies if I missed any of her songs.). A fast, foot-tapping song where Hema sounds like she is actually on cloud nine. The guitar piece is brilliant and the chorus adds charm to the song. Hema shines through-out - one can make out Hema is thoroughly enjoying the song. If you are on cloud nine, listen to the song and sway with Hema.

Ek Hockey Doongi Rakh Ke
Singers: Shah Rukh Khan, KK and Chorus

Oooo… going by this song, one is better off staying away from the girls of the hockey team. This song is Shah-rukh’s introduction of the team. Khan’s commentary and the girls’ tidbits gel well with the chorus, though he could have done better on the commentary job. KK sings only a line in the song, you wil miss him if you blink err… whatever the equivalent is for listening. Good work on the lyrics and the narration.

Bad Bad Girls
Singer: Anushka Manchanda

This one stands out as the odd one out. This is targeted at the disc/pub crowd, I think. With its drum beats, breaking glass and synthesized sounds, it is more like a noise on the ears. The tune is nothing to rave about. Anushka’s voice totally suits the song and she handles it well.

Maula Mere Le Le Meri Jaan
Singers: Krishna & Salim Merchant

A mellifluous song, with a touch of folky, Arabic music. Krishna is brilliant - the right amount of emotion packed in and his voice sounds so soothing. His voice at times shakes a little and this adds to the beauty of the song. This song grabs you as soon as it starts and it tranfers you to another world altogether. The singer in the background actually spoils the serenity of the song. He is more screaming than singing - we could have done without him.

Hockey Remix
Singers: Shah Rukh Khan, KK and Chorus

This is the faster, noisier version of ‘Ek hockey doongi mein rakh ke’ minus the introductions. With digitally created sounds, loud thumping is noise to ears. I so prefer the slower, pleasanter song. This one is sure to top the charts in your local discotheque. Save your ears, skip this song.

Sattar Minute
Singer: Shah Rukh Khan

Supposedly Khan’s pep talk to his team. I don’t know why this ‘dialogue’ or ’speech’ is part of the movie’s soundtrack. Are people going buy this album because it contains a speech by King Khan? In the speech, Shah Rukh Khan is trying to motivate his team to play their best in those 70 minutes of the game - he hardly sounds convincing. He lost my attention right after the second sentence and the whole speech lasts for a litte more than 2 minutes. I know this is going to anger Khan fans, but nothing inspiring about the speech. The coach sounds desperate, not confident. When you are leading a team - there is a thin line between desperation and confidence.

All in all, a good album. ‘Chak De India’, ‘Badap Pe Paon Hain’ and ‘Maula Mere’ are good enough reasons for buying this album. No matter what I say, Khan fans are going to lap up this album.

If anyone works with Shahrukh they know the kind of commitment he brings, Jaideep

Interview With Jaideep Sahni(Writer & Lyricist)

How did Chak De India happen?
Three years back I was in Delhi. At that time I came across a report in the news paper that the Indian women's hockey team had won an international tournament. My heart swelled with pride. The write up was very small and that struck me. If the Indian cricket team would have won something, then they would have got two pages. This subject kept turning in my head. It grew on me. I researched, read a lot on hockey and hung around in stadiums. After Bunty Aur Babli, Adi asked me what are you doing next! I told him there's a story that is not leaving my head. It is about women's hockey team, they do well against foreign teams who have hundred times better resources. I narrated to Adi and he said that this film has to be made. I started developing it and then the principal character of coach came in. Shimit joined us and he is not the kind of person who'd do a film just for the heck of it.

Why did you think of Shahrukh Khan to play the coach?
Once we started writing, it just seeped into our minds that Shahrukh has to be there. He has been a hockey player and we found the same spirit in him.

What was the next step?
The search for girls took half a year and training them took about four months. Searching for the players was a hell of a task. There were parts where we required the physical presence while there were some parts for which we needed actors. Then we realized it was a much bigger thing. From 4:30 in the morning till 2:30 in the afternoon all players were practicing hockey after that till evening tea it was time for acting. After evening tea there was dialect training. The players were from all over the country and the dialect had to be right. After that there was gym, sauna and injury management. We also had motivation speakers, players from various sports etc. We had decided that we won't roll camera till the time they look like players. A team has to look like a team. Then there were readings of their parts with Shahrukh.

The promos of the film haven't generated much curiosity. In fact there were reports that the video of one of the song was hooted when it was played in between Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.
We had been sleeping for 2-3 hours at night. We saw these things in the papers but we were too much into it. Once it got over we slept uninterrupted. The curiosity about the film is natural as it's an underdog story. Our entire promotion plan is a mix of all kinds of things. We showed the music video. It was a new thing. Sometimes it works sometimes it doesn't.

What about reports of SRK being unhappy with Shimit Amin and the entire making of the film?
Interestingly we used to laugh at all these reports. If anyone works with Shahrukh they know the kind of commitment he brings. He also acted as an off screen coach as well. He helped in things like crowd management.

Movies based on sports haven't worked in Bollywood barring a rare Lagaan. Does that bother you?
If a movie is a worthwhile experience people will come and watch it. Our job is to tell stories and that's what counts.

You're also associated with Madhuri's comeback film Aaja Nachle?
I've written the script and lyrics.

What are your forthcoming projects?
I've written lyrics for Disney-Yashraj's venture Roadside Romeo directed by Jugal Hansraj. I've also written lyrics for the title track of Johny Gaddar.

Source: IndiaFM

Shah rukh khan to say "come on india" in august

Shahrukh Khan's next upcoming movie is Chak De India in which he will be appeared after a long time in his new change looks with beard like Veer Zaara. In this movie he plays the lead role character of a Muslim coach of Indian Girls Hockey Team. Beisdes Shahrukh Khan the female lead role plays by Vidhya Malvade. The movie has been made under the production of Yash Raj Banners.

The title Chak de means Buck Up India OR Come On India. Yash Raj Banners this forthcoming movie shot in Yash Raj Studios and also Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane in Australia. Earlier Yash Banners Salam Namstey also shot out in Australia. The first trailer of the movie released in 15th June with Jhoom Barabar Jhoom( JBJ was pathetic movie and plz don't waste your time). Story writer of the film Chak De India is Jaideep Sahani and Edited by Amin. Music by Salim and Sulaiman, and film directed by Shimit Amin. This is Shimit second film before this he directed the master piece Ab Tak Chappan.