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FORTNIGHTLY ISSUE NO. 23 MAY 18, 2010 AUCKLAND

DESI INTERNATIONAL SHOWBIZ PRESENTS

ANNUAL
BOLLYWOOD
HIGH SCHOOL
DANCE
COMPETITION
2 0 1 0

SA
ATUR
RDAY
Y 21
1st AUGUSTT 2010
0@
GLAMO R ★ G OSSIP ★ GRANDEUR LOGA
AN CAMMPBE ELL CE
ENTR RE

With ‘Badmaash
Company’ proving
to be a box-office
hit, Shahid Kapur
is back in the
reckoning. Here
he talks about the
film, his character
and how he feels
an added sense of
responsibility with
every success.

SHAHID
KAPOOR
“I have recognised my strengths
and weaknesses as an actor”
RAJESH KUMAR Immigration Advisor
- 14 years of Legal & Immigration experience
- Specialise in Skilled Migrant Category & Family Residence
- Study to work to Residence Permit
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- Long Term Business Visa/Permit - Enterprenuer Category [Residence]
- Appeal/Review/Reconsideration of declined cases. Rajesh Kumar
MA LLB, LLM Hons (NZ)

Ph: (09) 279 9228 1st Floor, 150-A Great South Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland
Mobile: 021 205 5507 P.O.Box 23450, Hunters Corner, Papatoetoe, Auckland
Fax: (09) 279 9224 E-mail: raj_hannah@yahoo.co.nz
02 ADVERTORIAL MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND

Readers’ feedback
Editors Note
The congratulatory messages on completion of our first anniversary
are still pouring from our loyal readers and advertisers, who claim to
have become gplus addicts. Well, we can only say that we are glad that
gplus has become an indispensable part of their lives. Since we couldn’t
publish some of their comments in the previous issue, we are doing so in
CONTENTS this issue (Page 7). On our part, we would like to ensure that we give our
readers everything they seek in a glamour magazine supported by quality
content. We thank the readers for their very encouraging feedback and
1 & 4 - Cover story hope they continue to do so regularly.
Vinay Mehta - Editor
SHAHID KAPOOR
3 - Star Birthdays
5 - Point of view
JP
6 - 7 - Previews Dip B.S; Dip.Co-Law; Cert.Bus Law(UK); Dip. Acctg;
Member -NZAMI; Member- MInstCM
Registered Marriage Celebrant

PATIALA HOUSE & LAMHAA

8 - Second lead LICENSED BY
Immigration
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Immigration
Advisers
Advisors Authority

Authority

BARBARA MORI newzealand.govt.nz

NEW ZEALAND

10 - 11 - What’s up A S S O C I AT I O N FO R
MIGRATION &
INVESTMENT

12 - King Poster Member - CANZ

PRIYANKA CHOPRA
14 - Events
15 - Gupshup MAHIMA, AFTAB UNVEIL TOY CARS
18 - NZ diary
19 - Interview
ABHAS
20 - Star Talk
RANBIR KAPOOR
21 - Gossip
HANSIKA
22 - Interview
ANURAG BASU

PUBLICATION DETAILS
Publisher: Metsons(N.Z) Ltd.
Editor: Vinay Mehta

Associate Editor ( Mumbai): M.J. Rajendrakumar.
Consulting Editor: R Manishaa (manishaa.gplus@gmail.com)
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For Advertising contact: Vinay Mehta - (09) 6294849,021893424
e mail: info@gplus.co.nz. website: www.gplus.co.nz
B
ollywood actors Mahima Choudhary and Aftab Shivdasani
unveiled Nick India and Zapak Games’ “Roary the Racing
Car” toy cars in Mumbai on May 7 at Phoenix Mills, Lower
Parel. ‘Roary The Racing Car’ is one of the most popular shows
on Nick internationally as well as in India. The kids took delight
even as the two stars unveiled the models amidst tremendous
excitement.
MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND STAR BIRTHDAYS 03

You share your birthday with

May 25
Karan Yash Johar
May 20 May 25
HASAN KAMAL MONTY
May 24 May 30
RAJESH ROSHAN PARESH RAWAL
 04
I
could connect to the
role in ‘Badmaash
Company’ because
I too had to work
hard to come to this
stage in my life.
The film is about four
friends and their journey
and relationships. But what
really got me interested
in the role was the fact
that the protagonist hailed
from a lower middle class
background and had to work
his way up in life. He had to
find success through his own
means.
I decided to go for the
90s look, since the film
is based in that period
To start with, I had to cut
my hair and style it unlike
‘Kaminey’, where I grew my
hair. To get the look right, I
wore high waist jeans with
my shirt tucked in and collar
thrown behind. It was akin
to the Aamir Khan look in
‘Ghulam’. I also lost a lot of
weight for this film since I
was to play a much younger
role of a 21-year old.
I had no apprehensions
whatsoever about
working with Parmeet
Sethi, despite him being
a first-time director.
I remember when I asked
Adi about the name of the
director he merely told
me that he was also the
person who had written the
script, dialogues and the
screenplay. That’s when
I had almost made up my
mind about doing the film.
That’s because there are
very few directors who write
their own scripts and the
ones who write well, are
invariably clear about their
vision of the film. In the case
of Parmeet, I saw that he
was very instinctive, sincere
and hardworking. He never
pushed his acting on to us.
As great as it might
look on screen, it is not
exactly a comfortable
experience for us when it
comes to doing intimate
scenes.
Also, the presence of so many
people on the set at any point
of time is also disturbing.
But we all look at it as just
another scene and another
day of work. Also, I agreed
to do the scene because I
felt that such a situation
happens in the life of every
teenager.
In this industry if you
want to go ahead you
can’t look back on your
flops.
You have to just work harder
and look forward. I have had
16 to 17 releases and I have
now recognized my strengths
and weaknesses as an actor.
COVER STORY
I am 29 and am in the most
important phase of my
career. I admit I made the
wrong decisions at times for
“ I also lost a lot of weight
for this film since I was to
play a much younger role of
a 21-year old.”
which I had to work doubly
hard. Also, I have realized
that the audiences are the
ones who really matter. It is
they who can make or break
a film. I am not concerned
about the critics view point.
It hardly matters to me.
Living up to the
audiences’ expectations
isn’t easy but I began to
feel an even bigger sense
of responsibility after
the success of ‘Jab We
Met’.
I realized that I had to
justify my success with
every project I took up.
MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
Actually, the higher you go
the harder you have to work.
On the other hand, power
is a dangerous mind space
and can ruin you. So it is
important to maintain your
balance and not let success
go to your head.
The biggest myth I have
heard about myself
and other actors is that
Bollywood heroes have
overtly glamorous lives.
Most people tend to forget
that we are eventually normal
people who would like to go
home, have our dinner and
fall asleep. We like to go for
walks and listen to music
too.
I have fond memories
of my maternal
grandparents. They were
the ones who brought me
up.
I was very attached to them.
My grandfather owned a
press and my grandma used
to write for the Russian
magazine Sputnik. Since my
parents were separated, my
dad used to visit us twice a
year since he was based in
Mumbai. I was a naughty
child and loved to play
cricket. Then we shifted over
to Mumbai and I felt like an
outsider here. Nevertheless,
I had a normal upbringing.
By Sharmishta T
 MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND POINT OF VIEW 05

Bachchan’s woes
To be or not to be- is the dilemma that Amitabh
Bachchan invariably finds himself in whenever
he chooses to voice his opinion. The latest was
when Bachchan found himself being featured in
the media blitzkrieg because he chose to define
his caste as “Indian”, his answer to the Indian
government’s recently approved caste census. He
talks about this on his personal blog.

May 13, 2010

As expected, remarks from my folder found their way into national debate and
discussion on the Tv. Had I just stuck to a mundane description on the process of the
census, or perhaps as Daisy conjectured, on the finery of the lady that was doing all
the writing, challenging the dress code of Rochelle at similar duties, the day would
have gone off without event. But what is a day then if not worth invoking curiosity.
Yes, if ever the census were to come back to me and asked for my caste, I would
only give to them what I have already said - Indian ! So what seems to be the problem
with that. Is this an opposition to the desire of the authorities to know my caste ? No.
Is this a denial to the authorities from determining through a count the caste break Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi MP and Hon John Key, MP for Helensville, Prime Minister
up of our countrymen ? No. Then why the anxiety and discourse ? No one is stopping
you from finding out what the caste factor is. Certainly not me. Neither have I given
any indication in writing or suggestion that this process should not be conducted.
Please do go ahead and do it. I am merely saying what my answer will be if I am ever
asked what my caste is. Thats it. All that follows after is the commercialization of
the medium of media. Media is never going to be interested in the issue. Their only
We’re working for you
interest is how can an issue be exploited for revenue and TRP benefits. And the reason
why they keep being defensive about it by continuously denying it, merely exposes Auckland office:
the hurt that they feel of its truth. I have said it earlier, I shall say it again. Media 1/131 Kolmar Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland Phone 09 929 3855 Email Bakshi.mp@parliament.govt.nz
will baulk at running an issue for more than a couple of days. The interest factor, in
the eye of the client, diminishes. Alarm bells sound in the editorial conferences early Postal Address P O Box 23136, Hunters Corner, Auckland 2025
morning and strategies start getting devised on how to capture interest again through
another fresh issue.
GET JOHN KEY’S NEWSLETTER
Amitabh Bachchan www.johnkey.co.nz
Jalsa/Prateeksha, Mumbai www.national.org.nz
 06
PATIALA
HOUSE
P
eople Tree Films’
(Mukesh Talreja)
‘Patiala House’, directed
by Nikhil Advani, is based
against the backdrop of cricket
and brings back the hit ‘Bobby’
couple of Dimple Kapadia and
Rishi Kapoor, with Akshay
Kumar and Anushka Sharma
in the lead. The film also
features India’s only female
rap singer Hard Kaur, who will
show her acting skills for
the first time.
‘Patiala House’
revolves around patriarch
Gurkreet Singh Kalon,
a strict disciplinarian
who decides the rules
for his family and cannot
tolerate the idea of
anyone going against
him. A second-
generation Sikh
in London gives
up his dream to
save his father’s
reputation until
he meets a girl
who gives him
the strength to
stand up for what
he believes. This
R
ahul Dholakia’s ‘Lamha’
is a love story that seeks
to portray the feelings,
anguish and pain of Kashmiri
people. According to the filmmaker,
‘Lamha’ portrays the aspirations of
the Kashmiris in all authenticity
and thus seeks to clear re-conceived
notions about the region and the
problems faced by its people since
the past 60 years.
Synopsis:
Kashmir... once known as a
paradise on earth, it is now a
playground of devils. A company is
generating millions of unaccountable
dollars that benefit all powers-
from politicians and leaders to
bureaucrats in the Indian and
Pakistani intelligence. From high-
ranking army and police officers to
the militants and their supporters,
everyone gets the piece of the pie.
The Military Intelligence gets a
whiff of a plot that is likely to disrupt
and possibly paralyze Kashmir.
Vikram is sent to investigate this
highly confidential mission using
the identity of Gul Jehangir. The
same day that he lands in the
valley, Haji a top separatist leader,
survives a blast. Could there be a
connection between the blast and
the operation?
PREVIEWS MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
cross-generation drama is
about second chances.
The story is set in
Southall; London where
Patiala House’s patriarch,
Gurkreet Singh Kalon (Rishi
Kapoor) rules and runs his
family life just like a
prime minister
would run a
government. He is a strict in Malabar Hill. Rahul Nanda, cricket scenes in ‘Chak De!
disciplinarian whose authority noted film publicist and son India’ and ‘Dil Bole Hadippa’,
and rules are not questioned by of famous writer Gulshan has reportedly finalized the
anybody in the family. Every Nanda, has conceptualised list of international cricketers
addition in the family be it a this unique storyline. It is for the film who will play with
cousin or a cousin’s cousins are reported that Akshay has Akshay.
all accommodated in Patiala trained extensively for his role ‘Patiala House’ has director
House. However there is of a cricket bowler in the film, Nikhil Advani teaming up
a hitch. Gurkreet Singh under Paras Mhambrey, who once again with Akshay
feels his son (Akshay also trained the IPL Mumbai Kumar after ‘Chandni Chowk
Kumar), who pursues Indians team. Former England to China’, which unfortunately
his own ambitions, skipper and batsmen, now a met with a disastrous
is destroying his commentator, Nasir Hussain, response. The film is also
dreams as a Sikh will reportedly play the role Akshay’s first film with his
immigrant in of Akshay’s coach in the film mother-in-law Dimple. The
England. ‘Patiala House’. In addition, music for the film has been
The film the film also has a line-up provided by Shankar-Ehsaan-
is said to be of international cricketing Loy. The film began shooting
inspired legends, who will make guest last December in India and
from the appearances in the film. the next schedule is to be held
real life Nikhil Advani’s British sports in London in June. The film
story of a coordinator Robert Miller, has been tentatively lined up
family living who handled the hockey and for a November release.
To solve this conundrum, Vikram
teams up with Aziza, Haji’s young,
aggressive and outspoken protégée.
The intensity of their beliefs and
their will to survive against all odds
creates a special bond between them.
They embark together on a journey
full of intrigue, suspicion, betrayal
and danger, to uncover the truth.
What seems like a routine
investigation ends up being an
operation that will change the
perspectives and ideologies of both
Vikram and Aziza as it exposes
the dirty secrets of a state’s fight
for freedom, the corrupt nexus of
politicians, intelligence, militancy
and the crucification of idealistic
and passionate people. In such a
scenario, are the bullet and the
bomb the only solution?
Will wisdom prevail in the valley
of flowers so that the common
Kashmiri’s are not sacrificed in the
crossfire of politics? Will Vikram
manage to restore peace and
normalcy in the heaven turned hell?
Produced by Bunty and Jaspreet
Singh Walia, ‘Lamha’ stars Sanjay
Dutt, Bipasha Basu and Anupam
Kher, with Bipasha playing the
character of an Islamic separatist
(woman). Knowing Dholakia’s
penchant for authenticity and
 MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
detailing, this film scheduled for a
July 16 release, is bound to generate
its own level of curiosity. It may be
recalled that Dholakia had last made
the critically acclaimed film ‘Parzania’
about a boy who went missing in the
Our anniversary issue of Gplus has
received a tremendous feedback from
advertisers and readers alike. We could
not accommodate some of the best
wishes of our advertisers in the previous
issue due to paucity of space. We are
publishing their comments below and
thank them for their continued support.
Your anniversary issue was a great effort.
I enjoyed reading it. Congratulations
Mrs Sandhya Rao
I found your anniversary issue to be
fantastic
Venkat Raman of Indian Newslink
Good work. Keep it up
Ravi Luther of Luther Jewellers
Very impressive. It is a collector’s item.
Sayeedbhai of Akbar Darbar
PREVIEWS 07
2002 Gujarat communal violence.
The film went on to win awards at
the 53rd National Film Awards and
won the best direction award for
Rahul Dholakia and the best actress
award for Sarika.
READERS FEEDBACK
I would say your anniversary issue was Harish Lodhia of Sona Sansar
gorgeous and great looking
Alluring and seductive. That is what I
Mr Giri of Relianz Forex would say about your anniversary issue
Great picture quality Mr. Sanjeev and Manish from
Payless food bazar.
Vishal Rishi of Ashirwad Foods
Gplus has captured everyone’s hearts
I found the ads in your anniversary issue
to be very impressive Mr. Binesh Sumer of Desi
international showbiz.
Hitesh Thakkar of Jalaram
Khaman Thumbs up for Gplus and its team on its
anniversary issue
Real magazine quality
Mr. Yogi from Yogi Institute.
Ashok Sharma of Bikanerwala
Great results and great going ahead
I guess Gplus stands for the ultimate
glossy magazine, after I saw your Mr. Manish Saluja from Saluja’s
anniversary issue.
Gplus has proved that it is nothing but
Jack Dube of C.C.C the best
It now reflects the true glamour Mr. Singh from Kwality Mini
quotient Bazar.
 08
T
ell us something about
yourself and your
association with the world
of films.
Well, I was born in Uruguay and my
grandparents were Japanese. At the age
of three, we moved to Mexico. I got my
first modeling offer at the age of 14 from
fashion designer Marcos Toleo when he
spotted me while working as a waitress.
I later studied acting in El Centro de
Estudios de Formación Actoral. I started
modeling at the age of 17 and later worked
on television. I am also a mother of my
12-year old soon, Sergio. I have done six
films so far, all of them Mexican, Kites is
my seventh film and my first Indian film.
I want to try out Hollywood, Spanish and
Argentinean films too.
So how was the experience of
working in a Bollywood movie?
I found it absolutely fascinating. I knew
nothing about Bollywood, nor had I seen
a single Hindi film, before I signed ‘Kites’.
When my manager told me that an Indian
producer was keen on working with me I
was a bit surprised but I gave my nod to
the film, since I liked the script very much.
I had heard about India and wanted to
come here for vacations and see the Taj
Mahal but here I was actually doing a film
with them. It was amazing.
Did you find it difficult in the
beginning trying to co-relate to the
script?
I was given an English script so I did not
have much of a difficulty trying to relate
to the script of the film. I found some of
the sequences quite amusing, especially
the song and dance sequences. But they
were fascinating too. I rehearsed a lot for
my character of Natasha. Of course, there
were initial hiccups when Anurag would
explain sequences and I could not decipher
a word about what he had said. I would
ask him to repeat the same in English and
he would tell me that he had just repeated
it in English. Thankfully, Hrithik would
come to my rescue and explain everything
to me all over again. There were a few
amusing experiences too. The funniest
part was when an assistant came up to me
with glycerin for a crying scene. She told
me that I would have to break into tears.
I told her that I did not need it and could
cry even without the glycerin. Rakesh
Roshan was surprised that I could do so.
He refused to believe it until he saw me
performing the scene.
Did you manage to brush up your
Hindi language skills during the
making of the film?
I did learn a few important terms like Main
Tumse Pyaar Karti Hoon (I love you) and
Ullu ki Patthi hoon. It was fun. I taught
a bit of Spanish to Hrithik and he taught
me some words in Hindi … bad words!!
(Smiles)
There has been talk about your off-
screen romance with Hrithik and
how the brilliant chemistry between
the two of you also extended off
screen.
I am an actress and I am aware of the fact
that these things are written about when
two people work together. I have faced it
SECOND LEAD
BARBARA MORI
“My world revolves around
my 12-year old son, Sergio”
all in the past when I did Mexican movies.
It would hurt me when I was young but
I have now learnt to take it in my stride,
after being in the profession for so many
years. Also, I met Hrithik and his family
when his wife, Suzanne, was pregnant. I
found them to be a nice and warm family-
Rakesh, Pinky, Hrithik and Susanne. They
took care of me because I was new to their
set up.
MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
She admits to being amused
by the song and dance
routine in Bollywood films,
but finds them fascinating
too. Mexican actress
Barbara Mori is equally
amused by the undue noise
being made about kissing
scenes in Indian films.
The 32-year old seems to
be quite clear about her
priorities in life, even as
she speaks out her heart on
her Bollywood debut and
other things.
Have you seen any of Hrithik or
Rakesh Roshan’s films?
I did watch Hrithik’s ‘Laksh’ and ‘Kaho
Naa Pyaar Hai’, after I signed ‘Kites’ and
I loved them.
Ha your son seen your film?
Has
My son has not seen the film yet, since he
h
is having his exams in school. He cannot
com for the premiere so I want to show it
come
h in Mexico.
to him
Ho do you strike a balance between
How
yo career and your family?
your
My family is most important to me. I feel
hap when I am with them, especially my
happy
son with whom I share a very honest and
son,
bea
beautiful relationship. I fell in love when I
was 14 and too young to understand what
love was all about. My relationship with
my son’s father did not last long as he was
not a gentleman. I brought up my son as
a single unwed mother and my family too
stood by me. My world revolves around
my son and I have no plans of marrying
again. I have taught my son to speak from
the heart. I can understand him better and
caution him, because I am aware of the
mistakes I have made in my life. Today, I
am a star in my own right and most people
tend to forget who they are because of the
importance they are given but my family
has kept me grounded all the time.
How different is India from Mexico
according to you?
Well, the food is spicy and delicious in
both the places. I found the people of India
to be very warm and friendly. But apart
from this, Indian culture is way apart from
the Mexican culture. In Mexico, you can
survive as a single mother but the same
cannot be said about India. I am of the
firm belief that you should not continue to
live with a person you don’t love.
What next? We are told that
director Anurag Basu has already
approached you for his next movie.
We have definitely discussed something to
that effect but there is no concrete project
in the making yet. I would definitely love
to work with Anurag though. Let’s wait
and watch. Destiny has brought me to
India and if destiny wills there may be
something in the offing.
Sharon Rodrigues
 10 WHAT’S UP MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND

Mumbai’s glitterati bring latest ‘We Care Trust’ brings joy for
fashion closer to Mumbai
garment.
The stunning Lara Dutta gave
Thalassaemia children with gifts
styling sessions to young girls and
women at the store. “European Fashion
hits India quite late. However, for the
Indian woman late is not really good
enough. Fashion conscious women
like me believe in being abreast with
fashion along with our European
counterparts and not lagging behind
.Vero Moda is the “IT” brand for
women who are trend setters, love
clothes and love themselves more,”

V
ero Moda, the European brand she commented.
synonymous to fast fashion,
dressed the town with its
stylish numbers at its launch at The
Palladium, High Street Phoenix,
Mumbai. Bollywood Divas Lara Dutta
and Dia Mirza, fashion gurus Manish
Malhotra and Rocky S and runway
sensations Shamita Singha and Jesse
Randhawa, later upped the “Fashion
meter” by give styling sessions to the
Fashionistas of Mumbai.
Fashion lovers were of course
delighted to receive individual styling

sessions from the fashion Stalwarts on
how best they could send the glamour
quotient soaring by choosing the right
cuts, silhouettes and hues according to
their individual needs. To add to the
thrill of it all, the first 100 shoppers
went home with a free designer
The six celebrities not only styled
the women but also chose their own
respective show stoppers who will hit
the runway with them on the night
of the May 8 at The Palladium, High
Street Phoenix.
‘W
e Care Trust’ an NGO
organized a day of
entertainment and
fun for the children afflicted with
thalassaemia on 8th May. Around
140 kids were taken for a joy ride
starting with the animation movie,
‘Bird Idol’, followed by gifts and an
interaction with Bollywood celebrities
like Manoj Bajpayee, Smilie Suri,
musician Salim Merchant, Archana
Puran Singh, Parmeet Sethi, Vir Das,
Chang (Badmaash Company) and
others.

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy to Marathi film Krantiveer Rajguru

“Rock On” Overseas draws attention at 4th Cinemax
Marathi Film Festival

S
hri Balaji Entertainment Inc.
organized a press meet at Sun-N-
Sand, Mumbai to announce the
upcoming ‘Inspiration Rock On live in
meet, besides choreographers, Kunjan
and Danny.
The show has been organized by
Rockey of Shri Balaji Entertainment,

concert’ of music composers Shankar-
Ehsaan-Loy. The trio later spoke
to the media about the world tour,
besides the possibility of performing
in Pakistan with singer, Shafaqat
Amaanat Ali Khan. Singer Mahalaxmi
Iyer who will also be participating in
the concert was also present at the
who has been organizing concerts in
US, UK, Canada and has successfully
entertained people abroad. According
to Ehsaan, the trio will be doing 12
concerts in more than 16 cities abroad.
“We have the most talented artists
travelling and performing with us,” he
said.
O
n the occasion of the closing
ceremony of the 4th Cinemax
Annual Marathi Film Festival,
Ashok Kamle, the director of the
patriotic film ‘Krantiveer Rajguru’
threw light on his forthcoming film,
which is set for a 14th May release.
Among others who were present on
the occasion with a view to promote
regional cinema were actress turned
director, Renuka Shahane, actress
Vidya Malvade and other talented
artiste and directors from the film
fraternity. The guest of honor was
legendary V. Shantaram’s son, Kiran
Shantaram.
 MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND WHAT’S UP 11

Dadasaheb Phalke Academy honours legends of the industry

T
he Dadasaheb Phalke Academy
celebrated the 141st birth
anniversary of late Dadasaheb
Phalke, the Father of Indian Cinema on
30th April at Bhaidas Hall, Mumbai. On present were Dev Anand who was to Indian cinema, Manoj Kumar,
the occasion, the academy felicitated honored with Phalke Ratna, veteran comedian Jagdeep, veteran actress
several legendary personalities of the actor Pran, who was felicitated for Sulochana, Dr Sriram Lagoo, Salma
Indian film industry. Among those his great contribution and service Agha and others.
12 KING POSTER MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND

This feisty actress has been working

overtime to do justice to her roles.
She has never shied away from doing unconventional roles whether it
was her grey role in ‘Aitraaz’ or the challenging role in Fashion. Now Pri-
yanka Chopra or Piggy Chops as she is fondly called, is all set to mesmer-
ize the audiences with ‘Anjaana Anjaani’ and ‘Saat Khoon Maaf’.
 ER
IN

SE A
RTA
E

RC
H
FO
R TH E NT
E ULTIMATE
14
Parmeet Sethi visits Roshan
Taneja’s acting academy
P
armeet Sethi, the director of Badmash Company visited acting
guru Roshan Taneja’s academy and interacted with the students
at his institute.
AJAY DEVGAN inaugurates Roha
Group’s , “Satsang Bharti” Township
O
n the auspicious day of
‘Akshaya Tritiya’, Ajay
Devgn inaugurated the Roha
‘Satsang Bharati’ township in Malad.
Ajay who was dressed in casuals,
took time out from his busy schedule
to inaugurate and be a part of the
celebrations for his friend Amit
Sharma (MD of the Roha Group).
Ajay Devgn participated in the
puja and also laid the first stone in
EVENTS MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
Rahman and Katrina Kaif
launch “Rhyme Skool”
“R
hyme Skool” a music CD of Saregama Music was recently launched
by Saregama C.E.O. Apurva Nagpal along with Oscar winning
music director A. R. Rahman and the gorgeous Katrina Kaif. The
CD launch was held in Mumbai at Hotel Intercontinental, The Lalit. According
to Apurva Nagpal, the launch of the CD was possible only due to the efforts
taken by A. R. Rahman and Katrina Kaif. “It was a joint initiative taken by all
of us to launch a music CD only for kids. I am very thankful to both them and
I owe it to them,” Nagpal revealed.
Rahman added that the music for the CD had been composed by his
students, who sought his final approval. “I really loved it. I have a lot of
expectations from my students and I am confident that even though it is a
kid’s music album, the music will loved by people of all age groups,” he said.
The gorgeous Katrina Kaif has given the commentary in “Rhyme Skool”.
“When I was launching this CD, I remembered my own childhood. I am very
happy that I am playing a part in entertaining the children and it makes me
very proud to be associated with this project,” she quipped.
the property as a symbol for good
luck. Also present at the event was
Ramakant Tibrewala, the Chairman
of Roha Group. After wishing Amit
Sharma good luck for his prestigious
project, Ajay Devgn later left the
venue.
A township in Malad, ROHA
Satsang Bharati is entrenched in a
unique nook of the city that offers
breathtaking views of nature.
MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND EVENTS 15

New York premier of ‘Kites’

T
he New York premier of ‘Kites’ was a prestigious
affair. The entire Roshan family and Barbara
Mori were at the AMC Empire Theatre in Times
Square for the event, besides a host of celebrities.
Presenting exclusive pictures of the event.
 16 GUPSHUP MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND

Ajay’s new Avatar for GOLMAAL 3 MILAN LUTHRIA

A
jay Devgn is all set to show off his
new look for Shree Ashtavinayak
Cinevision Ltd’s next comic caper
completes his trilogy
Golmaal-3 which is currently been shot in
Goa. This time Ajay has gone all out to bring
out his edgy and rugged style with diamond
ear studs, tattoos and cropped hair. Ajay
plays a hyper character who loses his temper
very quickly, because of which everyone is
scared of him. People never know what he
will laugh about or get angry about.
This new avatar for Ajay has been
conceptualized by director Rohit Shetty
himself. Reports suggest that Rohit has even
styled the look of the other cast members
in the film including Kareena Kapoor’s
tomboy look, Tusshar Kapoor’s tapori look
and Arshad Warsi’s look which is yet to be
disclosed. The clothes for Ajay’s new avatar
have been styled by Navin Shetty.
When quizzed about this, the director
replied, “I wanted all the characters to have
different looks in G3. For Ajay (who plays
Gopal again), I wanted a character that looked
way apart from anything he had done so far.

S
Ajay has also worked hard on his body so we equels have become so passé. The latest trend
will have him flaunting his body in the film. taking Bollywood by storm is trilogies. Director
The tattoos for Ajay’s new look have been Milan Luthria is working on one such trilogy. After
designed by Aalim’s studio. Says Aalim, “The the super success of ‘Taxi no.9211’, which was based on
tattoo is of a Celtic or tribal trishul. It’s a Mumbai, Milan is coming out with two new movies with
daring to have a tattoo on the neck, even if the same scenario. The first one is ‘Once Upon a Time in
it’s temporary. No actor in India has done it Mumbai’ – a romantic action film starring Ajay Devgn,
on the neck.” Emran Hashmi and Kangana Ranaut, which is expected to
Aalim continues,” We have given Ajay release around the end of July.
the buzz cut, stubble and a more macho, This will be later followed by a fast-paced action thriller
masculine and grungy look than he normally with a surprise ending which is based on…Mumbai again.
sports. We were waiting for all his film shoots No surprises there! The movie will be produced by Kumar
to get over before we could give him this look Mangat and will be a solo hero film.
as it would have continuity problems. He While the talented director loves making films on
took a keen interest in the whole look and Mumbai, he considers the beautiful city of Pune to be lucky
styling.” for him. So much so, that he takes off to Pune every time
Well, Kajol will sure have to watch out he’s scripting a film.
for Ajay’s female fan-following after this new
devastating look.

Now Gandhigiri in Arshad is working

Hollywood too!! round the clock!
I W
t’s a known fact that hat’s giving actor
Gandhi’s philosophies Arshad Warsi
have touched not only sleepless nights?
Indians but also the rest The actor, who is currently
of the world, with people shooting in Goa for Golmaal-3,
across the globe including is shuttling between Mumbai
international leaders and Goa for some time now,
taking his views forward. ensuring that his work schedule
Now we hear that the does not suffer on account of
nation’s father, with his anything. According to our
vision of non-violence and source, Arshad shoots for the
world peace is not just a movie all night after which he
source of inspiration for catches an early morning flight
Indian cinema but also to judge the new reality dance
world cinema. Fox Star show ‘Zara Nach Ke Dekha’. He
Studio’s action Hollywood shoots for it all day long only
film ‘The A-Team’ starring Bradley Cooper and Liam Neeson is a case in point. to return back to Goa for the
The film, an out and out action entertainer actually has Liam Neeson and Quinton movie shoot. The result is that
“Rampage” Jackson in a conversation about Gandhi-ji in one of its scenes. The long the poor actor has been rendered sleepless for almost 50 hours!
chat between the characters includes their understanding of the leader’s outlook on Adds this source, “Arshad has been taking the 6 a.m flight to Mumbai and
violence and hatred. shooting for ZNKD all day and night till 5 a.m and then takes the 6 am flight back
Well, with our very own Bapu being an influence in Hollywood too, it appears to Goa and shoots for Golmaal-3. It gets pretty tiring”
that everyone the world over is finally getting a hang of ‘Gandhigiri’. ‘The A Team’ And no, Arshad is not complaining, he is just tired of shooting round the clock
– one of the more awaited Hollywood films of this year by 20th Century Fox is set but that also gives him a sense of satisfaction at the end of the day. Well, work sure
for a June 11th release. seems to be worship for him.
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 18
New law brings protection to New Zealand migrants
A
change to New
Zealand’s immigration
advice laws means
that migrants coming to New
Zealand are better protected
than ever, according to
the head of New Zealand’s
Immigration Advisers
Authority, Barry Smedts.
From 4th May, people
outside New Zealand giving
immigration advice about
the country must be licensed,
unless they are exempt,
under the Immigration
Advisers Licensing Act.
The change is the final
implementation phase of the
Party to celebrate the success of Amit Kumar’s show
G
opal Bhatia, presenter
of Radio Tarana threw
a party at Hotel Curry
Mantra in Mt. Roskill, to
APOLOGY
Act with mandatory licensing
for advisers based in New
Zealand becoming a law on
4th May 2009.
According to Smedts, the
law was introduced to make
sure that New Zealand’s
reputation as a migrant
destination was enhanced.
“The immigration adviser
community no longer has
room for poor performers who
did little to help migrants,”
Smedts said. “The good news
for migrants is that wherever
they are in the world, they
can have confidence that
their adviser meets the high
celebrate the grand success
of singer Amit Kumar’s
recently held show. The party
was rocked till the wee hours
There was an inadvertent error in the advertisement of ‘Bollywood High School Dance Competition’ printed in
the last issue. We apologize for the mistake.
NEW ZEALAND DIARY
professional standards New
Zealanders would expect an
adviser to meet,” he added.
Smedts also clarified that
licensed advisers faced a
rigorous assessment process
prior to licensing. Once
licensed, advisers had to
sign up to a code of conduct
that provided consumer
protection for migrants. “Any
migrant can handle their own
immigration application. But
not everyone has the time or
detailed understanding of
New Zealand’s immigration
process, so they can also get
help from an immigration
of the morning. Seen in the
photographs from left to right:
Vinay Mehta (Editor-gplus)
and Kishore Sodha (photo
adviser. It is vital that they
have confidence in their
adviser, and that is why
knowing their adviser is
licensed is so important.”
A list of licensed advisers
and where they are based is
available on the Authority’s
website, www.iaa.govt.nz.
All licensed advisers carry a
wallet licence card, the size
of a driver’s licence, with
photo ID, and only licensed
advisers are authorised to
use the Immigration Advisers
Authority Trademark.
There are currently
414 licensed advisers
no 104), Amit Kumar going
through the pages of gplus
(Photo no 108), Gopal Bhatia
entertaining guests in his
MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
worldwide. Immigration
New Zealand will no longer
accept applications lodged
by unlicensed advisers,
no matter where they live.
Migrants are warned that if
they consult someone who
is operating unlawfully, the
‘advice’ they receive may
ultimately be worthless, as
they may not be allowed to
move to New Zealand.
More information
on immigration adviser
licensing is available on the
Authority’s website: www.
iaa.govt.nz
unique singing style (Photo
no 110) and Amit Kumar with
Mr and Mrs Rajesh Thakkar
(Photo no 111)
 MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND ADVERTORIAL 19

extraordinary. I am sure this show

will be even bigger than the previous
one.

Which are your personal

favourite numbers that are a
must at all stage concerts?
I don’t have any favourites. I like
to go by what the audience wants but

performer, when it comes to

drawing the audiences?
I think confidence, attitude,
liveliness, and being yourself are the
attributes that matter, when it comes
to striking a great rapport with your
audiences. It is important to feel one
with the audiences and get them to
enjoy the music.

Have you and Shreyas performed

I guess the NZ audiences, love the
golden melodies of yesteryears. They
also love new melodies with a classical
base.
What according to you are the
attributes of a successful stage
together earlier? How’s the
rapport between the two of you?
Yes we’ve performed together, and
we share a great chemistry. Right now
we both are working on jingles and an
album which will be releasing soon.
It’s a Sufi album releasing in a month
composed by both of us and I’ve sung
the songs
By R Manishaa

ABHAS
“I am sure this one will be even
bigger than the previous one”
His livewire performance last year is still fresh in
the memory of the NZ audiences. Encouraged by
the phenomenal response for the show, Abhas is
gearing up for another rocking performance once
again at Auckland this June. He talks about the
concert and more.

Y
ou seem to have already
become a hot favourite
with the NZ audiences.
Are your NZ concerts
any different from the other
places?
Yes definitely my last concert in
NZ was a great success. I was quite
enthused by the great response I got
from the audiences here. I think the
NZ audiences have got a great ear
for music. They are all music-loving
people and it is interesting to perform
at such places, where the audiences
are very interactive.
W hat is the USP of this particular
show and what should the NZ
audiences expect this time?
This time it’s the ‘Ragas to Rock’
theme of the show itself which is the
highlight of the event. Normally I
perform regular Bollywood numbers
but this time l will be performing
classical oldies and several new songs
based on Sufi tracks.
Which one would you say was
your best and most memorable
concert over the world so far?
The one in New Zealand last
year. Prior to that, I had performed
in Pakistan with Alka-ji and Kumar
Shanu and the response was
 20
RANBIR KAPOOR
“I don’t consider myself a
youth icon yet”
He is the youngest in the ensemble cast of the much-
anticipated film, ‘Rajneeti’ but that hasn’t stopped
Ranbir Kapoor from being in the forefront of the film’s
pre-release campaign. The fact that he has a great
following also makes him a better bet, when it comes
to drawing the audiences. The superstar in the making
shares his views on his character in the film and his
career at length.
O
n his decision to play
a character with grey
shades in ‘Rajneeti’:
Ramjets is a film about
family and relationships with politics
as a backdrop. My character is based
on the epic character of Arjun. I saw the
character as a challenging opportunity
to experiment with a new role. The
negativity in my role also has a purpose,
which will be unraveled once the film
releases.
On his bespectacled look in
‘Rajneeti’ and whether it is meant
to add glamour to his character:
I don’t think I look glamorous with
spectacles. The character I play in the
film is that of a student studying abroad,
who is training in English Literature and
poetry of the 18th century. He visits
his family in India and gets sucked into
politics. Prakash Jha didn’t want me
to look young. He wanted me to look
mature and serious and suggested this
look for my character.
On the experience of working with
the established ensemble cast of
the film:
For me it was a learning experience
STAR TALK MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
of sorts and a wonderful opportunity
to work with all of them. In any case, I
am not the kind who craves for being
in the limelight. I am just a character
in the film, which is the case in all the
films that I have done so far. As for the
rapport I shared with my co-stars, it
was fabulous. There was no competition
amongst us. We worked for 100 days
on a set and developed a great bonding,
which is reflected in the film. In fact I
was pampered on the sets by all my co-
stars.
On the evidently great chemistry
he shared with Katrina Kaif during
the making of the film:
Katrina and I are good friends and
there is nothing more than that. We
have done a film together and ‘Rajneeti’
being our second film, we did spend a lot
of time together. But we were always in
a group. We would sit, talk and have fun.
In fact, Katrina would playfully call me
as her junior on the sets. Nana sir would
also cook for us at times. to meet and interact with the youth of all On being recognized as the new
the cities in India. It is going to be fun youth icon:
On the decision to accompany and I am looking forward to it. We will I don’t consider myself as a youth
director Prakash Jha for an all-city also be providing the young crowds with icon, so to say. I don’t have that much
promotional campaign of the film: a platform to air their views. body of work like Salman, Aamir or
It will give me a unique opportunity Shah Rukh. You can call them youth
icons as they have done so many films
and the youth try to emulate them. I am
new to the industry and I have many
more years to go, before I can acquire
that distinction.
On reports of him being back with
old flame Deepika once again:
It is wrong of people to assume that we
are back together again. We just bumped
into each other, we were with friends,
and we watched a movie together. As of
now I am single and there’s nobody in
my life. When we were together, we were
open about our relationship. It is unfair
to link me and her again. She comes
from a good family and hopefully will get
married soon and settle down.
On reports of him denying a film
with Shah Rukh Khan:
That is absolutely untrue. Shah
Rukh Khan is a big star and I would
be privileged to work with him. No one
has offered us a film together so far. I
would love to work with him if such an
opportunity arises.
By B. Preshit
 MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND
T
hrilling football on Saturdays
to crazy photography evenings
with friends to morning chants,
tinsel town actress, Hansika is indeed
enjoying her life to the most. The
former Tollywood sensation, who is now
exploring Bollywood films, has taken to
Buddhism in a big way and admits that
it has made a great difference to the way
she feels. According to her, Buddhism
aims at awakening people to the limitless
potential and value of their own lives.
Says Hansika, “Through chants one
can associate oneself with the divine
being and experience limitless peace of
GOSSIP 21
Hansika
chants
for
peace
and
wellness
mind and spirituality. For me, the best
way to effectively de-stress is to chant-
‘Nam Myo Ho Renge Kyo’. This practice
strengthens compassion in my mind.”
When asked whether chanting
has helped her in her personal or
professional life, she says that chanting
makes a person very balanced in his or
her approach towards managing life.
She adds that she is now able to manage
stress better and is generally more
positive while dealing with people. The
other actresses who are working overtime
sure need to take some chanting lessons
from Hansika.
 22 DIRECTOR’S SPEAK MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND

“In fact, the its script. In fact, it was this conflicting

ideology that resulted in great decision
chemistry between making at times.

Hrithik and Considering that Hrithik Roshan

is known to be very spontaneous
in his style of acting how was the
Barbara was so experience of working with him?
I think Hrithik is a director’s actor. It
magical that I is a pleasure working with him. What I
liked most about him is his tendency to
didn’t really have enact a scene impromptu and improvise
on the spot. He’s a brilliant actor who
to shoot a scene so tries to challenge himself all the time.

to say. I simply had The on-screen chemistry between

Hrithik and Barbara has been

to can the shot and making news ever since the film
began shooting. What would you
like to say about their chemistry?
cut it at the right I think it is a fabulous on-screen
chemistry, one that has worked
time.” immensely in making the film

ANURAG BASU S what would you say is the USP

So extraordinary. Moreover, the authentic
o the film in comparison to other
of script of the film worked towards building

“I haven’t given up on la
larger-than-life
h
have
romances that
been attempted on screen so
this on-screen chemistry. In real life too
Barbara knows very little Hindi and
fa
far? English. Her language difficulty was thus
making small films” b
I think the film goes beyond the
boundaries of a regular romance. It has
a spontaneous part of her expression.
In fact, the chemistry between Hrithik
a very realistic feel about it. In fact, the and Barbara was so magical that I didn’t
Director Anurag Basu talks about the making of one of a
audiences can be counted upon to fall in really have to shoot a scene so to say. I
his most ambitious projects, KITES. lo with the characters in the film.
love simply had to can the shot and cut it at
the right time.

‘K
ites’ is one of
your most highly
anticipated films
till date. Are you
nervous with the high expectations
built around the film?
It is scary no doubt but I am confident
about the film’s prospects. Like all
Hrithik starrers, this one is sure to
storm the box-office too but I am more
concerned about the second, third and
fourth week collections of the film. I
want to find out how many people would
like to go and see the film again. It is the
repeat audience that finally determines
the true success of a film.
basis of all films- big or small. Also, this
is a new experience for me. Given the
opportunity, I would love to experiment
and break Bollywood norms in each of
my films. However, all said and done,
I’d like to admit that I haven’t given up
on making small films. I’ll continue to
Rakesh Roshan, being
perfectionist himself, did you have
to do a lot of convincing, when it
came to taking decisions?
On the contrary, it helped to work
with a producer, who was a seasoned
filmmaker and a very successful one
a
Were you upset when a section
of the media went overboard and
leaked the climax of the film?
I was a bit taken aback. I found it
really unethical. There was a time when
different kinds of perceptions were being
created about the beginning and the end
of the film. There were also rumours
that the film would end on a similar note
like ‘Ek Duje Ke Liye’ and ‘Qayamat Se
Qayamat Tak’. I wouldn’t know whether
it was intentional but thankfully, none of
the stories being made out had anything
to do with the film. The real climax will
unearth only when the film releases.

The film also marks your entry in
the big league of films, considering
that all your earlier films prior
to this have been moderately
budgeted.
That’s what everyone is talking about.
I agree that the making of Kites is on a
really lavish scale but at the end of the
day, but is seed of the project-the idea
and the concept that eventually form the
direct them because they make a viable
bet any day at the box-office.
at that. I will not deny that we had
differences of opinion and arguments but
it was all in the interest of the film and
What next? The buzz is that you
are already being wooed with
international offers post ‘Kites’?
There are a couple of projects being
discussed but nothing concrete yet. I am
waiting eagerly though. Post Kites, my
immediate next film is one with Ranbir
Kapoor. I wouldn’t like to talk about it at
this juncture.
By R Manishaa
MAY 18, 2010, AUCKLAND STAR CLASSIFIED 23

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