Zoya Akhtar's project stars Kareena, Ranbir, Hrithik & Kat?

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On August 14, we told you how Karan Johar has decided to script Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor's reel reunion. But before KJo could firm up his plans, Zoya Akhtar has apparently moved in for the kill. The Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara director has pulled off quite a casting coupe and roped in Hrithik as Kareena's love interest in her next project. The film that traces the relationship between a brother and sister, to be played by real life cousins Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor, like we told you way back in May 2012, will also star Katrina Kaif opposite the Rockstar actor.

A source told Mirror, "Kareena and Hrithik have not shared screen space since 2003, when they did Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon. Zoya wanted to revisit their onscreen chemistry. And since Hrithik has already worked with Zoya, he welcomed the offer."

Incidentally, Katrina too had reportedly expressed her wish to work with Ranbir. "Their chemistry? be it in Ajab Prem or Rajneeti has been much appreciated. And Zoya was keen on getting them on board," said the source.

The project is expected to go on floors by the end of next year. Zoya did not respond to our message.

Source: Mumbai Mirror

Ranveer - Kareena will be my lover

Salman Khan age 46, Akshay Kumar age 44. They romance Katrina Kaif age 27, Sonakshi Sinha age 25. Hindi cinema has no problem with that. Never does a film have a dialogue that tells you the hero is romancing a girl 20 years younger than him.

But when 29-year-old Imran Khan fell in love with 31-year-old Kareena Kapoor in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, the script had to include a line about her being a year older than him. So when Sanjay Leela Bhansali casts two-film and 26-year-old Ranveer Singh as Romeo opposite Kareena, chronologically five years older and professionally a decade senior to him, are we okay with it?
Ram Leela is a straight love story, an Indianised Romeo & Juliet set in Gujarat. How will Ranveer and Kareena look as lovers? “We will look great together,” promised Ranveer Singh who is actually thrilled to bits that he has this Bhansali film with Kareena. It was during a lengthy chat over tea with Ranveer that the conversation steered unwittingly to Ram Leela and his heroine, Kareena Kapoor.

In a discussion on whether his second film Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl set him back a bit, Ranveer was emphatic that only positives had come out of his 2011 outing with Yashraj. And he cited Ram Leela to prove his point.

“In fact,” remarked Ranveer, “I got offered Mr Bhansali’s film after the release of Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl. He is such a senior director and I got offered a film opposite Kareena Kapoor who is probably the biggest female star right now. So Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl wasn’t a disappointment, I don’t think anything was lost.”

Kareena is a big star but five years older than Ranveer. Doesn’t it matter?
“Five years is nothing,” he dismissed. “I have two girlfriends who are both eight years older than me. I met Kareena recently and she looks not a day over 22! She is just gorgeous. She is so ethereal, so cherubic and angelic and versus this scruffy roguish guy, I think it will be a very interesting match.”

With Bhansali who has handled Aishwarya Rai and Sonam with Dresdan doll delicacy, Kareena will look her gorgeous best. But will the age gap show up? “We will make it a point to not let that happen,” Ranveer was clear. “Either in her mannerisms or just plainly and literally, in the way she looks, Kareena doesn’t look anywhere near the age that she is. She looks much, much younger. In fact we have some look tests coming up and I am very confident about it. We will make a great pair. Mr Bhansali’s idea behind pairing us together was that there will be a fantastic chemistry because that’s what’s on paper in the script. The kind of whole, open-hearted performer that she is and from what Mr Bhansali saw (of me) in Band Baja Baraat, he thinks a marriage of these two artistes is something that will create the kind of chemistry that he has in mind for his lead characters. So I am actually most excited about the chemistry that she and I will be able to generate through the characters that we will enact.”
Kareena has already worked with Imran Khan, her junior. “And they were great together. They played off each other so nicely,” Ranveer commented. In Ek Main...her character was established as one year older than Imran. But there will be no such attempt to underline her age or his in Ram Leela.

“She is going to be my lover,” Ranveer repeated. “I don’t think we have touched upon or tried to establish an age and yes, it’s definitely about two people in love.” And it isn’t a replay of the Akshaye Khanna-Dimple Kapadia Dil Chahta Hai kind of romance? “Oh, no, not at all. It’s very much a love story.

“In terms of the feedback that I get when I go on-line and I read what people are blogging and putting up, they are unanimously excited about this pair and that is a very encouraging sign.” And he mildly admonished us for probably being the only ones to “bring this up.” In Hindi cinema, it’s always been the prerogative of the leading man to romance a girl decades younger without a ripple about the age difference. But rarely the other way around.

“We’ll see then,” Ranveer replied confidently before moving on to a dozen other topics revolving around his life, health and career. It’s a healthy sign for sure when Hindi cinema, its men and makers, break conventional moulds while casting their lead pair. With a sensitive filmmaker like Sanjay Bhansali at the helm and two extremely confident actors leading the show, Ram Leela will throw a few rules out of the industry. As Ranveer said, “We’ll see then!”

Kareena & Saif's wedding date - October 16th!

In the first official confirmation from the family, Saif Ali Khan's mother, Sharmila Tagore has confirmed her son's marriage to actor Kareena Kapoor on October 16.

"Yes, that's the date we have decided upon. There will be a reception, too, but not a very big one," reports MidDay. The wedding ceremony, said close sources, will be a quiet affair, too.

Kareena had hinted that she would become the 'Begum of Pataudi' by the end of this year, while promoting 'Agent Vinod'.

The wedding, which will be held at the Pataudis' ancestral home, will only be attended by immediate family members of the couple.

Reports suggest that both the families have been planning the wedding and preparations are taking place. Jewelry for Kareena is being ordered and the wedding ensembles are to be designed by renouned designer Ritu Kumar.

In Bollywood there is one event that has kept everyone guessing - Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor's wedding.

Not just media, gossip mongers and the film fraternity even their friends wanted to know when the couple is getting hitched.

The couple, who were rumoured to be planning an early 2012 wedding after the release of their film 'Agent Vinod', is now set an October 16 date for their big day.

Earlier their wedding was postponed due to the demise of Saif's father and former cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan. After that the two had a chock-a-block work schedule and were unable to squeeze in a wedding date.

Kareena will complete Madhur Bhandarkar's movie 'Heroine' by July. After marriage, she will do two films a year. Right after she completes Madhur Bhandarkar's 'Heroine', she'll begin shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Ram Leela'.

At present Saif is busy shooting in Turkey for the sequel of his movie 'Race'.

The couple, who have been dating for many years now, have remained evasive about the issue and only hinted about their wedding plans.

All said and done we hope the couple a 'happy ever after' climax.

Source: Mid-day

Kareena and Helen bond

One mesmerised audiences with her sensational cabaret on the footthumping song Yeh Mera Dil from the 1978 Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Don.The other reprised the veteran actress' inimitable act in Farhan Akhtar's remake of the original flick.

Charmers both, neither Helen nor Kareena Kapoor imagined they would actually share screen space some day. Turns out they are in Heroine directed by Madhur Bhandarkar. Captured in the same frame, the actresses are seen sharing some warm moments.

Apparently, while the entire set was excited to see Helen in their midst, Kareena was the happiest. She and Helen were locked in conversation for quite some time. And yes, they exchanged notes about the iconic number they shimmied to, albeit at different times.

Reportedly, Madhur is delighted to have Helen on board his film. Sporting a de-glam look, complete with cotton saree and spectacles, Helen plays a well-known yesteryear actress in Heroine.

source : TOI

Kareena Kapoor set to do a 'western Munni' with Salman in Dabangg 2

Kareena Kapoor may not be known for her dance moves, but she’s being a complete professional about her item number in the Dabangg (2010) sequel. The makers remain noncommittal, but the latest news is that the actor has been confirmed and is already doing extensive pre-shoot rehearsals.

“In fact, Bebo - for the past few days - has been rehearsing hard whenever she gets time off Heroine. Although her schedule for Madhur’s (Bhandarkar) film is very demanding, she is going out of her way to prepare for the Dabangg 2 song,” says a source close to Kareena. “Till now, she has already rehearsed for about a week.”

Interestingly, Kareena’s number - unlike Malaika Arora Khan’s Munni Badnaam Hui in Dabangg - is likely to be “quite western”. “Both Bebo and Salman Khan want the song to be completely fresh. That’s why the setting and treatment itself will make it look different,” says the insider.

Kareena, who has done special songs like Yeh Mera Dil (Don, 2006) and It’s Rocking (Kya Love Story Hai, 2007) in the past, is taking a personal interest in the way the number turns out. “Like Munni, Salman is also slated to be part of the song. He is also in touch with composers Sajid-Wajid too,” adds the insider.

When contacted, director-producer Arbaaz Khan says: “As a director, I’m entitled to have some privacy when it comes to certain details. If everything is out, my film will have no charm left. We haven’t taken a final call yet. I am very keen on Kareena to do the song, but let it get recorded and then we will see.”

But the insider insists that Bebo is all set to do the song-and-dance routine. “It’s likely to be shot soon after Salman returns from Bangkok from his Ek Tha Tiger schedule, because Kareena will later get busy with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram-Leela, and will have no time to spare,” he says.

source : Hindustantimes

Kareena goes bold - smokes and drinks on screen

With the Government and various social activists still divided on whether or not to ban smoking and drinking from movies, more and more actresses are exhibiting such habits on screen on the pretext of the script. Priyanka Chopra did so in Fashion, Katrina Kaif in Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Vidya Balan in The Dirty Picture and the recent one to join the fad is Kareena Kapoor in Madhur Bhandarkar’s upcoming movie Heroine.

Recently, fanning the hype surrounding the film a bit more, the director tweeted a picture of a smoking and drinking Kareena from the sets. You can see her holding a cancer stick to her lips with one hand while the other is busy holding a glass of alcoholic beverage. Though she doesn’t look distraught, we think we are right in guessing this is the phase in the movie when she becomes the most wanted actress of the industry. From the looks of it, Kareena is giving quite a convincing scene here.

It seems Heroine will break a lot of stereotypes in terms of how actresses are viewed by the public and what they actually are. We hope this puffing of cigarettes and clinking of glasses are not overdone and forced in the narrative. A bit of meat here and there would really be appreciated as we believe in your brand of cinema Madhur. As for Kareena, it seems she is going all out to portray the role effectively.

source : Filmitadka

No make-up for Kareena in Tigmanshu’s next

When it comes to playing a character, Kareena goes out of her way to do it right. Reportedly the actress will portray the role of Begum Samru in Tigmanshu Dhulia's untitled period drama and is required to sport a de-glam look.

We heard that the actress is more than ready to shed her glamorous avatar and face the camera sans make-up. Kareena has gone de-glam in previous films such as Asoka and Dev, too.

Interestingly, Kareena is busy executing two extremely different roles: the de-glam Begum Samru, and the fashionista in Madhur Bhandarkar's film.

Bebo says she has extreme faith in her directors and is as excited about Tigmanshu's film as she is about Bhandarkar's. Dhulia's period drama was apparently first offered to Rani Mukherjee, while Madhur was keen to cast Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in 'Heroine'. Kareena now has bagged both these projects.

Source: Times of India

My mum’s totally cut off from B'wood: Kareena

What with comebacks being the in thing in Kareena Kapoor's family with dad Randhir Kapoor (Housefull 2) and sister Karisma Kapur (Dangerous Ishhq) doing so, we wondered if mum Babita Kapoor might be planning one too and who better to ask than Bebo? 

Beginning with a horrified "Oh God!" she explained, "My mum is totally cut off from Bollywood. She goes to the cinema only as part of the audience. She has no connection to it and she chooses to keep it that way, she's very happy in her own world. My mum gave up acting for her married life and then gave up her entire life for her children. She is not the kind of person to want to turn the clock back and do anything. And no, I don't hanker for her to play my mother onscreen either. I am happy having her play my mother offscreen." For all those fondly hoping to see this branch of the Kapoor family together, like Rishi Kaoor-Neetu Singh's delightful Do Dooni Chaar, this is bad news.

source : TOI

What makes brand Kareena the heartthrob of marketers?

This summer brands have got greedy for Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor. Last month itself, two brands (Limca and Alpenliebe 2 Choco Eclairs) have signed the celebrity as the endorser for their product. In fact, the grapevine says that with these new deals the actress’ endorsement fee has gone further up. So much so, that she is now the highest paid actress for endorsements, overshadowing her closest competitor Katrina Kaif. So what makes Kareena sizzle in the brand market? And what does brand Kareena mean for the marketers and consumers?

Youthful and sensual
Brand personality or personification of the brand in terms of human traits indicate emotional associations of the brand with the consumer, thus enhancing brand equity. Hence, when it comes to key brand attributes of Kareena Kapoor: Youth is the first word that the marketers and the experts mention.
Anupama Ahluwalia

Anupama Ahluwalia, Vice President Marketing, Coca-Cola India and South West Asia

Talking about Kareena as the new endorser for Limca, Anupama Ahluwalia, Vice President Marketing, Coca-Cola India & South West Asia said, “Charming, vivacious, popular with India’s youth, she is a great fit for the brand. She symbolizes this fresh, inspiring, spontaneous energy and we feel she brings out our brand ethos perfectly and being an achiever in her own right, she carries our new message with immense credibility.” Limca has launched a new campaign and a new positioning of getting more thirsty and pushing oneself.

Experts are of the view that Kareena is a very strong youth icon, one who does not follow the rulebook. Dr. Falguni Vasavada Oza, Associate Professor, Marketing, MICA says, “Be it her size zero act or her openness about dating somebody much older than her, the actress has an image of a person who is unconventional and breaks the rules and that’s why a lot of youth brands are hopping on to her.”

Confectionary brand Alpenliebe 2 Choco Eclairs from Perfetti Van Melle has also roped in Kareena to endorse the brand. This is the first time that a celebrity has been taken on board by clairs category. But surely one wonders if Kareena is iconic for youth why a confectionary brand like Alpenliebe Eclairs has chosen her?

The killer factor: royal and spontaneous

Nikhil Sharma, Director Marketing, Perfetti Van Melle India, promptly answers, “When it came to selecting the right brand ambassador for Alpenlibe Choco Eclairs, Kareena was a unanimous choice. The chocolate eclairs category is sensual because of chocolate‘s connotation with sensuality. Kareena has that sensuality along with a quirkiness and humour element, which is also a key ingredient in confectionery segment.” Also, the clairs category is one that positions itself as youth and is increasingly focusing on teenagers and young adults.

The style quotient

Apart from her vibrating youthful energy and sensual shades, Kareena is one Bollywood actress, who symbolizes style and fashion. And it’s because of her style quotient that the actress became the first Indian actress to launch her own line of clothing ‘Kareena’s trends’ an international high end brand of clothing. This trait of her personality is reflected in the fashion quotient of brands like Lavie, thus making her personality blend with that of the brand. For instance, handbags brand Lavie also signed Kareena as its face to touch the heart of its target group which is young women. Such complementing brand attributes of the celebrity and the product, not just influence purchasing decisions but also create brand loyalty among consumers.

So, what sets this tinsel town lady apart from her contemporaries like Katrina Kaif, Asin, Anushka Sharma, Priyanka Chopra and others? Well, experts think it’s her spontaneity and legacy that sets the brand attitude for the product she endorses. The Kapoor family legacy gives Kareena the touch of royalty and her association with beau Saif Ali Khan has added to that quotient. Going forward many brands that are considered royal and exclusive may look at roping in Kareena as their face. And while comparisons are enough for Kareena with her elder sister Karishma Kapoor too, many feel there too Kareena is leading the race. MICA’s OZA adds, “Out of the two sisters, I find Kareena more sophisticated and stylish and thus more appealing to today’s generation.”

Apart these two latest additions, Kareena has about 15 brands in her kitty including Lavie, Head & Shoulders, Vivel, Mahindra Scooters, and others. Experts also feel that with more luxury brands expected to enter the Indian market in the next one year, one may expect the ‘Chammak Challo’ girl to become the reigning queen of such brands considering her high royal quotient.

Source: Pitch

Kareena excited to work with Bhansali

Being one of the top actors in Bollywood is not an easy position to maintain, but for Kareena Kapoor, it's just a way of life.

After completing Madhur Bhandarkar's Heroine, she will begin work on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Ram Leela, which will be shot in the interiors of Gujarat. Kareena says, "Sanjay is probably the only big director I haven't worked with in my career. I'm looking forward to it because every actor wants to work with Sanjay at least once. This movie will be like a painting I hang on my wall and look back at after 20 years with fond memories." In Ram Leela she is cast opposite Ranveer Singh, who is a selfconfessed fan of her work. Kareena says, "I've heard about that. I think Ranveer will be a fun guy to work with."

As of now, the actor is still finishing Madhur's project. When asked about it, she says, "The journey is on. We have 40 days to go. It is a special film that revolves around the life of a superstar." Her role will explore the psyche of an actor. The film will also see Kareena doing some intimate scenes with co-star Randeep Hooda. But hadn't she said long ago that she would do no such scenes onscreen? "I'm just doing what the script is asking for. I don't think the audience really wants to see me do such scenes. So they'll probably see my bare back or something," says the actor.

Currently Kareena is the face of many brands, including Limca's new campaign - Pyaas Badhao. She says, "The concept excited me. People would never have imagined seeing Kareena, cricket and a soft drink together. Also, my personality is like Limca -very tangy."

source : HT Media Limited

Is Kareena Kapoor Doing Chinta Ta For Rowdy Rathore?

Ever since news broke around Kareena Kapoor agreeing to do an item number in Rowdy Rathore, there has been immense speculation around the song she would be gyrating to. However the cat is out of the bag.

Though the makers are choosing to keep mum around the developments, indications that that this much awaited song would be none other than Chinta Ta which is already playing on the music channels.

“What you see on the song so far features only Akshay. However Kareena would be a part of the song as well. When she heard the song, she was totally bowled over by it. This is going to be yet another chartbuster in her kitty”, informs our source.

One waits to see whether an altogether different music video would be shot with her or would her portions would be amalgamated in the same song which currently features Prabhu Devaa as well along with Akshay.

Our source refuses to spill the beans here, “Let there be an official announcement from Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Prabhu Deva around it. However it is sure that ‘Chinta Ta Ta’ is the chosen one.”

This would make it second item number in a row for Rowdy Rathore after Pritam Pyaare which has already been unveiled. The song features Mumaith Khan, Mariam Zakaria (of Dil Mera Muft Ka in Agent Vinod fame) and Shakti (winner of Dance India Dance season 2).

“Kareena would be doing something altogether different when compared to these girls”, adds the source, “Mumaith, Mariam and Shakti are being quintessential item girls in that song. However Kareena being a seasoned actress, she would be bringing her own style and grace in Chinta Ta instead of joining the likes of those who are item girls by professions.”

We are waiting for sure.

source : Koimoi

Kareena to play Begum Samru?

Mumbai: Actress Kareena Kapoor is likely to play the role of Begum Samru in Tigmanshu Dhulia's period film.

Tigmanshu, who is basking in the glory of recent hits like Paan Singh Tomar and Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, had first approached Rani Mukherjee for this film, sources said.

The period flick is based on the life of Begum Samru, who started her career as a nautch girl in 18th Century India, and eventually became the ruler of Sardhana, a principality near Meerut. Later on she played a key role in the political power struggle in 18th and 19th century India.

According to sources, Kareena had liked Tigmanshu's both the latest movies - Paan Singh Tomar and Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster and she wants to work with the director.

"It is too early to talk about the details of the film, but Kareena is definitely excited for this film," official spokesperson from the director's side said in a statement.

Begum Samru was the head of a professionally-trained mercenary army, inherited from her European mercenary husband, Walter Reinhardt Sombre. This mercenary army consisted of Europeans and Indians. She is also regarded as the only Catholic ruler in India, as she ruled the principality of Sardhana in 18th and 19th century India.

Source: NDTV

No fancy diets for Bebo

She tells CS, “I have a very sensible approach towards food. I like to eat what is healthy and easily available. I don’t believe in following fad diets.

But my diet goes for a toss when I am holidaying because that’s when I indulge in cakes, fondues, cheeses and so on. I also love potato chips.
But even when I am dieting, I make sure that I eat enough to feel energetic all day long. So, the meals have to be tasty and in sufficient amounts.”

Source: Mid-Day

Kareena endorses Alpenliebe eclairs

This is Kareena’s first brand endorsement in the confectionary category.

Nikhil Sharma, Director Marketing, Perfetti Van Melle India, said, “Today’s youth immediately identify Kareena Kapoor as a style icon who has established herself through her work in Bollywood. When it came to selecting the right brand ambassador for Alpenlibe 2 Choco Eclairs, Kareena was a unanimous choice.

"She is an irresistible mix of beauty, elegance and style. She fits perfectly with our product which promises consumers a great indulgent experience.”

Kareena said, “I am very proud to be associated with PVMI. Alpenliebe is one of India’s most loved brands and this innovative product under Alpenliebe has given me the opportunity to work on an exciting new campaign.”

The TVC is shot by ad film maker Ravi Udyawar, involved a shoot at Mumbai’s Reliance studios followed by a complex post production process at animation studios in Poland and Black Magic, Singapore.

source : Indiablooms

Charming, vivacious, popular with India's youth, Kareena is a great fit for Limca - Vice President - Coca-Cola India

With the mercury levels rising, Limca, India's largest and most preferred sparkling beverage brand in the cloudy lemon segment, adds a dash of freshness to the summer with the launch of its latest communication for 2012 - 'Pyaas Badhao'. The new campaign increases its dose of refreshment by roping in charming and vivacious Bollywood actor, Kareena Kapoor to endorse the new campaign. 

After enthralling consumers with its characteristic fresh and spontaneous communication in the past, the latest campaign now takes on a more meaningful and inspiring platform. The idea for the new campaign "Pyaas Badhao" springs from the fact that we generally get very complacent and satisfied with what we have achieved in life, be it big or small. Through the latest communication, brand Limca inspires its consumers to push themselves, get even more 'thirsty' in whatever they do, and emerge as winners. Brand Limca adds an inspiring wave of freshness, urging consumers to keep the fire alive, to push themselves a little more to achieve much bigger things in life. The TVC retains the characteristic feel of Limca, adopting a light-hearted yet sincere tone, instead of taking a preachy route.

Talking about the new campaign, Anupama Ahluwalia, Vice President - Marketing, Coca-Cola India & South West Asia, "Limca as a brand stands for great thirst-quenching and rejuvenation. Our new campaign for 2012, 'Pyaas Badhao', takes it to the next level - first increase your thirst and then quench it with Limca! We feel this will be inspiring and stimulating for our consumers. We have explored a more meaningful take on 'freshness' this time, going beyond instant satiation to a life changing, inspiring force. Kareena Kapoor joins the brand as the new ambassador in propagating this message to its consumers. Charming, vivacious, popular with India's youth, she is a great fit for the brand. She symbolizes this fresh, inspiring, spontaneous energy and we feel she brings out our brand ethos perfectly and being an achiever in her own right, she carries our new message with immense credibility. We hope consumers love our new TVC and are challenged to push themselves further. ''

Speaking about the campaign, the newly appointed brand ambassador and leading Bollywood actor, Kareena Kapoor said, "I always have Limca in my fridge at home and on shoots. Chilled Limca and lots of ice. It's the perfect chill recipe to beat the summer heat. I am happy to be associated with Limca and particularly pleased with the creative work of "Pyaas Badhao". Those are the values that I grew up with and something that I challenge myself with."

The refreshing communication is being aired starting 22rd of April, and has been conceptualized by Leo Burnett led by Exec Creative Director, Nitesh Tiwari. The campaign has been directed by renowned director Nikhil Rao and produced by Jamic Films. In-addition to leveraging TV, the integrated communication initiative will also include out-of-home, radio, digital media and on-ground events in key Limca markets. 

source : Afaqs

On TV from today, Limca's new ad featuring actor Kareena Kapoor

Beverage giant Coca-Cola, which owns Limca, recently signed the actor in an endorsement deal valued at Rs 2.5 crore a year. The contract with her extends for two years. Leo Burnett is the creative agency on the brand.

Wasim Basir, Coca-Cola’s director, integrated marketing communications, says the new commercial will have a refreshing take on the thirst-quencher premise on which Limca has stood.

While Limca has a market share of about eight-nine per cent, shifting positions between fourth and seventh in the pecking order of the top ten carbonated beverages in the country, Coca-Cola has been looking to infuse new life into the brand.

This, say experts, has partly to do with rival PepsiCo’s work for 7Up, which is the lemon-flavoured drink in its portfolio.

In February this year, PepsiCo launched its new ‘Dil Bole I feel Up’ campaign with actor Sharman Joshi for 7Up, which, in a span of two months, has become extremely popular with the youth. PepsiCo took the animated route here showing Joshi dancing with a penguin. The campaign was done by BBDO and shot in Australia with computer generated imagery or CGI. BBDO also managed to get international choreographer Simon Lind to choreograph the entire film.

Coca-Cola, say market experts, is looking to take the sheen off that campaign with the new Kapoor-endorsed Limca commercial.

The new ad is expected to run through the summer after which Coca-Cola may come out with fresh creatives featuring the actor.

After mango drinks, lemon-flavoured drinks rank second in terms of popularity amongst Indian consumers of packaged beverages. Both Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have attempted to increase the lime and lemony connection with their mainline brands in the last few years given this preference amongst consumers. Both beverage giants have in the last few years played up the refreshing aspect of lemon with imagery featuring slices and splashes.

In the juice drinks category too, both PepsiCo and Coca-Cola have invested heavily behind brands such as Nimbooz and Minute Maid Nimbu Fresh respectively to give consumers a taste of real lemon juice, a beverage which is prepared and consumed both in-home and out-of-home.

According to market estimates, India consumes about 115 to 120 billion litres of beverages per year. Of this only four to five per cent constitutes ready-to-drink, packaged beverage consumption. The balance is unpackaged consumption, of which 50 per cent is that of lemon juice, popularly called nimbu paani.

source : Business-standard

Kareena thanks cricketers for their compliments

Everyone knows that Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra have been bitter rivals for years, and things took a turn for the worse at the IPL opening ceremony. Not just one, but two cricketers praised Bebo's performance over PC's.

When emcee Gaurav Kapoor asked Chennai batsman Suresh Raina whose performance he liked more, he said, "I think it was Kareena. Whatever she did was just awesome!" Even Mumbai team's Dinesh Karthik echoed the same opinion. At a party after the event, Karthik was overheard saying, "Priyanka's performance was good, but Kareena is something else!" A source said, "The cricketers' comments left Priyanka fuming and she walked out in a huff, not even bothering to meet Kareena backstage after the performances were over."

The source adds that Kareena too avoided PC. Kareena, who flew back to Bangkok after the IPL event, says, "Yes, it was very sweet of Suresh and Dinesh to compliment me so nicely. As far as Priyanka is concerned, I didn't meet her at the IPL at all." PC remained unavailable for comment.

Source: Times of India

'Heroine' has no time for Cannes!

 Mumbai: There’s news for all who were busy speculating the screening of the first look of Madhur Bhandarkar’s controversial yet ambitious project ‘Heroine’ at the Cannes International Film Festival.

Madhur, his lead actress Kareena Kapoor and others associated with the film are extremely tied up with work hence they wouldn’t be able to make it to the prestigious annual event.

The filmmaker took to Twitter to clear all rumours and wrote, “Media reporting that 1st look of #Heroine is going to be launched in Cannes are baseless.(sic),”

“Me, Kareena & the whole team are busy shooting #Heroine through the whole month of April & May, so no question of visiting Cannes(sic),” he added.

Buzz had it that Kareena and Aishwarya Rai (previously signed for ‘Heroine’ and eventually replaced owing to pregnancy) might clash at the Cannes.

Reportedly, post the ‘Heroine’ controversy, the two actresses haven’t been able to see eye-to-eye.

But now that Madhur has put all rumours about the appearance of ‘Heroine’ at the Cannes, a major confrontation has been averted…if we may say so!

source : Zeenews

Bebo’s round trip costs IPL a whopping 20 lakhs!

In spite of ‘Agent Vinod’ getting a lukewarm response at the Box Office, the film’s leading lady, Kareena Kapoor is much in demand. So much so that the organisers of IPL opening ceremony are going out of their way to ensure that Ms. Kapoor gets to attend the show in Chennai tonight.

Bebo has been shooting for a commercial in Bangkok for the past few days and has only a few hours to spare for IPL. As the shoot is not yet over, Bebo is required to be Bangkok after her performance at the opening ceremony.

Speaking to a daily, a source said, “So the organisers have decided to arrange for a chartered flight for her, which will fly her from Bangkok to Chennai. And then she will board the same flight to return to Bangkok to wrap the ad shoot.”

Bebo’s round trip is costing the organizers a whooping Rs 20 lakhs. But since the organisers are keen on getting her on stage, they perhaps don’t mind spending that much money.

“They are very keen on having Bebo onboard, and are making sure she is not inconvenienced in any way,” said one of Kareena’s spokesperson.

The actress is likely to perform on a medley of her hit numbers from ‘Bodyguard’, ‘3 Idiots’ and ‘RA.One’.

Along with Kareena, a bevy of stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Salman Khan and Pop icon Katy Perry will be performing at the IPL opening ceremony.

Source: Zee News

Bebo will rock the dance floor with Halkat Jawani - Madhur Bhandarkar

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar wants to break the tradition of the industry regarding, casting another actress to do an item track in his film.

Instead, the filmmaker who is making his most ambitious project Heroine has asked his leading lady Kareena Kapoor to turn into an item girl for a song titled ‘Halkat Jawani,’ which is said to be incorporated in the under production project.

Bhandarkar says, “I know Kareena can do justice to the item song. With an immense talent, she possesses, Bebo will rock the dance floor with the item track called Halkat Jawani. I am sure the audience will remember this one for a longer time to come.”

With Chhammak Chhalo’s success last year and Dil Mera Muft Ka, in Agent Vinod this year, the magic of Bebo in Halkat Jawani is definitely set to work for Heroine.

Madhur also wants to prove a point to other filmmakers that his actress is capable enough not only to enthrall the audience with her performance but also impress them with her jhatka’s and latka’s at the same time.

source : dailybhaskar

Heroes still make more money than Heroine - Kareena

The third session of the India Today Conclave 2012 saw Kareena Kapoor raising the glamour quotient a couple of notches higher. Dressed in a yellow sari with a pink border, Kareena spoke about how the Heroine becomes the hero.

Introducing Kareena and the topic of discussion, India Today Editor Kaveree Bamzai said, "Who better than Kareena to tell how a heroine becomes a hero."
Talking about the glamour that Kareena brought to the conclave, Kaveree said, "Kareena has the ability to get dressed-hair and make up -- in 20 minutes."

She also said, "Kareena does not want to discuss anything about the budget."

The glamorous speaker opened her session saying, "I'm not an expert of any kind but I'd like to say what I know is true."

Reading from her written speech, Kareena said, "How does a heroine become a hero? I hope we mean economically...Heroes still make more money than most of the heroines. But I think we are on the right path."

Talking about how heroines can turn into heroes, Kareena said, "Every woman in street has to be equal to men."

She said, "For me it's not about replacing men in films but about doing the best I can like Meryl Streep and Mother nature. I will say it's about what you are as a woman."

Equating cinema to art, she said, she said, "Art doesn't live in vacuum. The cinema that we make comes from our culture. I'm fortunate to have done a variety of films like Chameli, Omkara and 3 Idiots. However, I have a long way to go. When a film like The Dirty Picture generates such revenue, I feel elevated."

Talking about the ruling men of Bollywood, she said, "In Bollywood, its always about the Khans. And don't ask me what Salman is paid and what I am." Getting cheeky while referring to the Khans and the money that is paid to heroines in Bollywood, she said, "After the Khans take home their money, I am left with chammak challo."

But one day she said women will break even with men in Bollywood. "Acting is all I have known. It's a war out there and I wouldn't sell my soul but would sell my talent," she said, talking about what she would do to stand equal to Bollywood's heroes.

Talking about her acting career, she said, "I didn't go to college and I'm proud to say I don't know much more beyond acting. I'd like to act for a long time."

On marriage to long time beau Saif Ali Khan, she said, "Hopefully will become Begum Pataudi by the end of the year. There's no rush."

Answering a question about Aamir Khan and kissing him on screen, she said, "Aamir has kissed both sisters so he should be asked if it was awkward for him kissing me."

Talking about what Kareena thought about herself and exuding humility, she said, "I'm a little bit of the characters in Omkara and Jab We Met. I'm just a simple girl."

When asked about what she thought about item numbers, she said, "Item number is a derogatory term. Songs are the soul of hindi movies. Why can't it be termed a song?" She also said that she hadn't yet agreed to an item song for Dabangg.

When asked about the recent fight that Saif had got into at a popular eating joint in Mumbai, she said, "My fists didn't fly at Wasabi so I couldn't tell you about it! I wasn't the hero there!"

Source: India Today

Friends worried as Kareena Kapoor goes off radar

Actor Kareena Kapoor seems to have gone off radar these past few days. Not the Bollywood radar that is, but the actor had almost become inaccessible to most in these three weeks, including to her close friends and that apparently set off alarm bells as they could not get in touch with her for days at a stretch.

That’s not all, apparently the actor also made sure that no meetings or script-sessions were scheduled during the time. But according to sources, keeping her busy was her film Heroine and so involved was she in the Madhur Bhandarkar film that she’d apparently even kept her cell-phone completely switched off all through the film’s shoot.

Considering how addicted the star is to her phone, this came as quite a surprise to all close to her. “It’s impossible to see Bebo without her phone. In fact, even during the breaks in between shoots, it’s a given that she would be on her phone. She is addicted to BBMing and stays in constant touch with her friends. So it was shocking to know that she was not accessible on her cell either these past few days,” says a source.

Kareena’s extreme involvement in her film has apparently now also earned her the nickname ‘Aamir’ among friends, as they feel that she’s got as involved in her film as her Talaash co-star Aamir Khan usually does. “Not that she was any less professional before, but we think it’s the first time that she’s got so involved in a film that she’s called off all her meetings and has not even been able to catch up with her friends,” says the source.

However, an insider reveals that the actor has been busy shooting for some rather emotionally intense scenes for the film and she just didn’t want to be distracted by anything at all, including her cell-phone. “She even instructed her staff to not schedule any meetings in the time being. In fact, even the promotion rounds for Agent Vinod that releases next week will only start from today, though she did attend a conclave held in the Capital yesterday, ” adds the insider

Source: DNA India

No bikini for Kareena in Agent Vinod

Actor-producer Saif Ali Khan has admitted that his second home production, Agent Vinod, which opens on March 23, is along the lines of some of the biggest Hollywood franchises, namely the Bourne series, The Adventures Of Tintin and James Bond.

The film’s first promo had a flash of bikini beauties sparking off speculations that actor Kareena Kapoor, who cut down to a size zero to flaunt a swimsuit in her first film with Saif, Tashan (2008), would once again sport a two-piece in her beau’s home production. But Agent Vinod’s leading lady denies this, categorically.

“Every second girl today is wearing a bikini, so there is no need for my character Simran to wear one too,” says Kareena. “She is not your usual Bond girl. Sure, she’s glamorous, but she looks hot and mysterious even when fully clothed in a pair of jeans and a shirt or a full-length gown.”

The actor is encouraged by the reactions to the film’s promos, in particular her first ‘mujra’.

Prod her on the long wait, with release dates shifting from December to March, and Kareena argues that a big- budget action-packed adventure that has been shot in 12 countries, including Morocco and Latvia, with a perfectionist star-producer, takes time to wrap up.

“The delayed release works for us because we’ve had a breather since RA.One, Mission Impossible IV and Don 2 that released last year and the audience is now ready for the adrenaline rush of another thriller,” she reasons. “And I’m confident I’ll make the best pair with Saif this year.”

source : Hindustantimes

Kareena is spontaneous & Urmila is fabulous!

Though known mostly for his spine chilling thrillers with male centric themes, like JOHNNY GADDAR, EK HASINA THI, maverick director Sriram Raghavan has always given his lead actresses their due importance. Who can forget the award winning act by actress par excellence Urmila Matondkar in EK HASINA THI or Rimi Sen's short but highly effective role in JOHNNY GADDAR.

In order to know his views on his latest lead actress Kareena Kapoor and his experience of working with her in AGENT VINOD, we decided to ask the director who said, "Kareena was simply superb to work with. Yes, she is a spontaneous actor and has an instant connect with the viewer."

When we queried him about her role in the film, Sriram replied, "She has a complex role in the film, though I can't reveal that now. She can be glamorous and real at the same time."

We went a step further and asked him to compare Kareena with Urmila who we feel is just as spontaneous and natural like Kareena and he says, "Well, Urmila too is a fabulous actor. She is my first heroine and was superb in EK HASINA THI."

Certainly, no one else could have summed up the acting prowess of Kareena and Urmila better than Sriram Raghavan.

Source: Glamsham

Madhur celebrates holi with his Heroine, Kareena Kapoor

Well, B-town master helmer Madhur Bhandarkar doesn't miss any opportunity to capture moments whether its reel or real.

The award winning director who has a mastery in converting real life incident into reel took some time from his busy schedule of 'Heroine' starring the B-town power house Kareena Kapoor to celebrate Holi - the festival of colors.

The 'show' didn't stop here... Madhur and Kareena though covered with colours made sure that the work doesn't stop. The unit which was also caught by the Holi festival fever obeyed the orders of their director whenever he said "light, camera and action".

Madhur shares, "It is the festival for colours and we did add to that, but work comes first and I know my cast and crew believes in that."

source : Indiaglitz

Remixed tunes not good enough for Bebo, feels Salman

Actor Salman Khan is reportedly trying his level best to ensure that Dabangg 2's item number that will feature Kareena Kapoor, is nothing like her last item number. The actress' last item number Yeh Mera Dil Pyar Ka Deewana was for the film Don 2, opposite his rival Shah Rukh Khan.

According to a source Salman shot down the proposal of remixing an old cabaret hit like Yeh Mera Dil. "Salman personally sat for the 'music sitting' to conceptualise the item song. He's got music directors Sajid-Wajid to compose a track that will make Kareena dance like a dream."

Confirming the news, Wajid said, "There's no charm in redoing an old song. No one appreciates the composer or the singer in these remixes. We have decided to do a completely new song."

While there are not many details on how the song will be like, Wajid revealed that the song, like Munni Badnaam Hui, will have a rustic setting. However, this time, it won't be a bar full of louts.

According to a source, "She (Kapoor) will rehearse her steps with the choreographer - Farah Khan or Ganesh Acharya - for at least two weeks. The rhythms are rustic but unlike like Munni or Chikni." Salman is also slated to be part of the song.

source : Mid-day

Kareena is going to surprise everyone in Agent Vinod: Sriram

Sriram Raghavan, who is teaming up with Saif Ali Khan after Ek Haseena Thi, says their upcoming spy thriller Agent Vinod is more ambitious than his previous work and will see the actor in an entirely new avatar.

It was Raghavan who gave Saif his career's first negative role which not only earned rave reviews but also helped the actor bag two other important roles of his life - Being Cyrus and Omkara.

Raghavan spent two and half years making his latest thriller. The director feels the film is bigger and more ambitious than his previous outings.

"When a film of yours releases, you don't think that your next one would arrive after four years. On Agent Vinod I spent two and a half years. Having said that, I never felt that there was a lot of time going into it. On the contrary, I enjoyed the process," Raghavan said.

"Agent Vinod is an ambitious film. Ek Haseena Thi as well as Johnny Gaddaar were far more intimate films. This film was meant to be bigger and hence the sheer logistics and dynamics changed," he added.

If Raghavan is to be believed, his film will not feature Saif and Kareena Kapoor in a quintessential romantic role. A spy thriller that travels continents, the film also promises to present Kareena in a different light altogether.

"Since Saif and Kareena are a couple, it was pretty much weighing on our mind how should we present them on screen. There had to be a good enough role that justified her presence and along with my co-writer, I actually spent quite some time in cracking it before narrating the part to her," he said.

"Kareena is going to be a surprise in the film. The audience would forget that it is a real life pairing."

Acknowledged as someone who knows a thing or two about telling thrilling tales, the director is happy to narrate a new story with Agent Vinod while also deconstructing the Saif Ali Khan that is known to the audience.

"In Ek Haseena Thi, Saif was this charming and charismatic man though quite cunning and inherently negative. In Agent Vinod, he is not a bad guy though he has this suave charm and the brains that get him out of the trickiest of situations.

"Still, it is a new Saif for the audience. He is going to surprise again after Omkara and Being Cyrus. He is better than the best we have seen of him so far," said Raghavan. The film is slated to hit the screens on March 23.

source : NDTV

Kareena Kapoor's beauty trip to Bangkok

Kareena Kapoor, brand ambassador for Lakme Absolute, recently returned from a shoot in Bangkok for the brand's 16-hour high performance long-wear make up range.

The ad for the new campaign features all of Bebo's favourite products. Filmed at exotic locales in Bangkok, the ad was shot by the famous Japanese American photographer and film director, Karina Taira.

Cyril Lagel, the world renowned Parisian photographer, was also present at the shoot to capture Kareena in her Lakme Absolute looks. Our sources say Kareena is thrilled with how the shoot has turned out and is waiting with bated breath for the ad to go on air.

source : TOI

Can Vinod trust Iram?

Producers: Saif Ali Khan and Dinesh Vijan

Director and writer: Sriram Raghavan

Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Gulshan Grover

Release date March 23

Agent Vinod

The film revolves around undercover agent Vinod (Saif Ali Khan), who is on a mission to hack a conspiracy planned against India. While travelling to different parts of the world as part of his investigations, he meets Iram (Kareena Kapoor) who works for the bad guys. Vinod falls in love with her but is not sure whether he can trust her.

Agent Vinod has plenty of action sequences and Kareena has performed most of the action scenes herself and without a body double.

Source: Screen India

Gulshan Grover gives Kareena's mujra an 8/10

Actor Gulshan Grover feels that his co-star Kareena Kapoor has given her best shot for her mujra song, Dil Mera Muft Ka from the upcoming film, Agent Vinod. 

Grover, 51, who was last seen in the critically acclaimed film, I Am Kalam (2011), says: “Bebo’s song is an out-and-out entertainer
and she has done it really well. I love it.” But when asked to rate her performance on a scale of 1 to 10, he said, “I will give Kareena an eight on ten for this song.”

When it comes to a mujra number, comparisons with veteran actor and Bollywood’s mujra queen, Rekha (above), are inevitable. “Everyone looks up to Rekhaji and her mujras from Umrao Jaan. So did we,” says the film’s director, Sriram Raghavan, agreeing to the fact that Rekha was the biggest inspiration behind the song. Grover, however, says: “It’s unfair to compare the two as Rekha’s song was at a different time, of a different kind and was done in a different style. She was more to do with grace and adaa, while Bebo’s song is fun.”

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Rate Kareena Kapoor on a scale of 1 to 10, for her performance in the song, Dil Mera Muft Ka? Share your score with us on www.facebook.com/htcity

source : Hindustantimes

Kareena Kapoor replaces Malaika Arora as the new Munni

If the buzz is to be believed, Kareena Kapoor will be doing an item number in Dabangg 2.

The sequel of Dabangg is getting bigger by the day. If the buzz is to be believed, Kareena Kapoor will be replacing Malaika Arora Khan from the original for an item number in Dabangg 2.

Apparently the makers want to have another item number in the sequel and having Kareena Kapoor would only make it bigger. Malaika Arora Khan, in most probability, would be restricted to only being the producer. When the Dabangg sequel was newly announced, post the success of the original, there were multiple speculations including one that said Amrita Arora would join Malaika Arora for the item song in sequel. Together the sisters would dance with Salman Khan. However the only thing that would be common to the sequel's item number seems to be Salman Khan.

Industry insiders insist that the Salman Khan - Kareena Kapoor pairing in Bodyguard was much-liked and so the actress was the right choice. Also Kareena Kapoor hasn't done an item song since Don. So there would be fresh appeal to the item number. Either of the composers from the original, Lalit Pandit or Sajid-Wajid would be composing the song.

Dabangg 2 is expected to go on floors in early March.

source : TOI

Saif Scuffle: Did Iqbal misbehave with Kareena?

Actor Saif Ali Khan losing his cool after media reports of his scuffle with South African trade official came in, has raised a lot of eyebrows.

Sources suggest that the complainant Iqbal Meer Sharma too was at a fault because of which a petty argument took a grave turn. Sharma allegedly misbehaved with Saif's female folks (especially Kareena) and called them "a bunch of hooligans."

Saif has been accused to have assaulted Iqbal Meer Sharma, who's an NRI and his father-in-law (senior citizen) last night at a brawl inside a nightclub at Taj hotel in Colaba, but an insider present at the restaurant has a different version to recollect, "It was not Saif's fault alone, as Iqbal came on their table and started arguing and misbehaving with the ladies (Kareena, Karisma and Amrita Arora Ladhak), which miffed Saif, who asked him to go back to his table, but Iqbal too was in high spirits and stared at the actor quite constantly."

As per an insider, Saif lost his temper, "Finally, Saif reacted and in retaliation, he punched Iqbal on his face, which broke his nasal bone," suggests the insider.

Meanwhile, Iqbal denied misbehaving with the ladies, "It is false, they are now trying to play safe. I don't even know who is Kareena. One of Saif's friends, Shakeel Ladakh, the husband of Amrita Arora suddenly approached us after the tussle and punched my 70 year old father-in-law, who collapsed. This is not at all acceptable, so I approached the cops at the police station," exclaimed Iqbal.

Source: Daily Bhaskar

Action, not Bebo’s cup of tea, says Raghavan

Sriram Raghavan is least affected by talks of actors Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor’s wedding dominating his directorial action-thriller, Agent Vinod.

“My job was to make the film. Now, Saif is working hard to present and market it well. Any publicity is good publicity, so, as far as Agent
Vinod is getting discussed even as a film after which Saif and Kareena will tie the knot, so it be, as far as it’s making headlines,” said the 48-year-old director, who worked with Saif in Ek Hasina Thi (2004) and won critical acclaim for Johnny Gaddar (2007).

Saif’s recommendation led Raghavan to consider Kareena for the film. And the biggest challenge, says the director, was to cast this real-life couple on reel. “It is hard to detach them from their real self and make them portray two different characters, pitted against each other in the film. But they did full justice to it,” says Raghavan.

An equally tough task was to make Kareena do the action sequences, says Raghavan. “Action isn’t Kareena’s cup of tea. Though she gave her best shot in all the action sequences, she enjoyed doing the mujra (Dil Mera Muft Ka) the most. And she did it beautifully,” he says, agreeing to the fact that veteran actor Rekha’s mujras from Umrao Jaan (1981) inspired the song.

Raghavan plans to cast actors John Abraham and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan for his next sci fi film, Happy Birthday. “But nothing is confirmed as of now,” he says.

source : Hindustantimes

'Kareena is a beautiful version of Meryl Streep' - Marvie Ann Beck

Kareena Kapoor has a very young, Indian face. She is very particular about who she works with. So, when she called me, I considered myself to be one of the best make-up artists. She had already done her research about me and so didn't question me about my work.

One face that I believe doesn't need any make-up is Kareena's. Her face is flawless and I just love her without any make-up. She also has the best skin. It is perfect just like a baby's, pink and beautiful.

I did her make-up for an advertisement, where I just gave her a little texture with shine and gloss. She loves wearing kaajal on her eyes but I requested her not to use it and she agreed. The result was outstanding.

She is truly the beautiful version of Meryl Streep.

source : Rediff

"I would never wanna go back to size zero" - Kareena

Being called a ‘100 crore heroine’ is no small feat for Kareena Kapoor, and the 31-year-old actor feels her current phase is her career’s best. The Kapoor scion, who’s been part of hit films such as Bodyguard and RA.One in the recent past, has big projects including Agent Vinod, Talaash and Heroine in the pipeline.

“This is a great phase in my life. I am so glad that I am getting to work with the best of talent. God has been kind to me. I am thoroughly enjoying myself,” says Kareena, who was in the Capital to promote Agent Vinod at DT Cinemas recently.

Talking about the never-ending rumours about her impending marriage to actor-beau Saif Ali Khan, Kareena says, “Saif and I have become used to people speculating about our marriage. There are no plans at the moment. Both of us have never lied about it and never will. But the fact is Agent Vinod is more important than anything at the moment. It is Saif’s dream project. We all have worked very hard and it will be unfair to start talking about our marriage plans now.”

Kareena says she shares a great comfort level with Saif’s family. “Soha and I try to meet each other whenever we are in the same city. The fact is that we are all family and there for each other and I wish Soha all the happiness.”

When asked if she has any close friends in the film industry, Kareena says she is not in Bollywood to make friends. “Saif and I are very clear that we are not here to make friends. We are here to do our work and give our 100% to our projects. Having said that, I do have great friends in the industry, for example Karan (Johar). We do meet and talk beyond work. Also, I like spending time with Imran and Avantika,” she says.

One thing that seems to bother Kareena is the fact that she can’t work opposite cousin Ranbir Kapoor. “It is sad that I can’t be paired in a romantic role opposite Ranbir. Because of that, other girls are getting that opportunity to get cast opposite him. He is such a great actor. May be one day, we’ll work together as brother-sister. Who knows?,” she says.

Talking about her equations with the ‘Khans’ of the industry, she says, “Salman Khan is a sweetheart. He is the lifeline of the industry.

The charisma and energy of Shah Rukh are his trademark. So I would say he is truly a bundle of energy.

What can I say about Aamir, he is truly a genius.

Saif is versatile. He can play any character bit of a spy or of langda Tyagi will equal �lan.

Imran is very charming and unconeventional. I enjoyed working with him during Ek Main aur Ekk Tu.”

There are reports that suggest that the RK banner will be revived soon. “I think it would be great if the banner is revived. It is one of the oldest production house and what can be better that having it revived.”

Talking about her equation with beau Saif, she says, “We are at a very comfortable stage of our relationship. We both understand each other very well. There is a great balance in our relationship.”

Kareena speaks

On size zero
I’ve had enough of size zero. I would never want to get back to it. I think everyone, including Saif, finds me better this way.

On Delhi
I love the winter season of the Capital. Coming here in October-November is the best. I find the people of Delhi quite grounded.

On TV projects
I don’t have so much time to devote to TV as it requires a lot of time. I am used to working 8-10 hours and working on TV requires much more.

Source: Hindustan Times

Bebo jumps off Chennai Express

If all goes well, Deepika might be Shah Rukh Khan's co-passenger in the Rohit Shetty directed journey

The collaboration of Shah Rukh Khan and Rohit Shetty made Chennai Express one of the 'hottest' films to watch out for. After a short period of indecision regarding the casting of either Katrina Kaif or Kareena Kapoor as the leading lady in the film, SRK's RA.One heroine and Rohit's favourite, Bebo had emerged victorious.

In fact, the actress had even said in an interview, “Rohit and I are finalising the script and other details. Rohit is like family, and I am seriously looking forward to working with him again.” However, her enthusiasm regarding the project has been rather short-lived. Mumbai Mirror has learnt that Kareena, once happy to be a part of the project, has excused herself from it. Reason: the generic 'date problems'.

Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone, who has recently been in the news for leaving Race 2 producer Ramesh Taurani in a mess by walking out of the project midway, has been asked to come on board Chennai Express.

A friend of Kareena, confirmed that the actress is no longer a part of the film and added, “Kareena has already informed Rohit Shetty that she wouldn't be able to work in Chennai Express. SRK is aware of it as well.”

As for Deepika's inclusion in the Rohit Shetty film, a source close to the project said, “Deepika has given her nod of consent. The official signing should happen soon.”

source : Mumbaimirror

'Heroine not similar to The Dirty Picture'

 
Kareena Kapoor is tired of comparisons. The Bollywood star insists Heroine is not another The Dirty Picture.

“Vidya (Balan) did a fantastic job and I don’t like clarifying rumours, but I have to assert that there are absolutely no similarities between the two films. Silk was an item girl while my character, Mahhi Khanna, is a heroine,” she points out, adding that while Milan Luthria’s superhit period drama was set in the South Indian film industry of the 1980s, Madhur Bhandarkar’s movie is here and now, rooted in the Hindi film industry.

Kareena was the first choice for Heroine, but the super busy actor had to opt out over date issues. Madhur then announced the film with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan at the Cannes Film Festival last year, and on their return to Mumbai, set the film rolling. However, after Aishwarya’s pregnancy came to light, the project was stalled for a few months till Kareena returned to it. Certain changes were made in the script and Heroine was restarted on November 30 last year.

After 11 days of work, Kareena took off on a much-needed annual vacation with beau Saif Ali Khan to their regular place in Switzerland for 20 days in December. “We’ve got 80 days more to go before we wrap up the film and there’s so much more to come,” she says, adding that the first promo that UTV has cut featuring her, which was unveiled recently to the press, is quite cool.
Kareena

Kareena and Madhur have wanted to work together for a few years now. She was offered Page 3 (2005) and Fashion (2008). “Let’s hope we’ll be third time lucky,” she smiles.

“Madhur is a National Award-winning writer-director, his films are not your usual Bollywood fare but exciting and unconventional. Heroine too is a journey revolving around a star’s personal and professional life that you’ve never seen on screen before but would want to.”

source : Hindustantimes

Sorry, Priyanka and Katrina, 2012 is Kareena's year

"Even when destiny gave up on Kareena, her DNA didn't", filmmaker Karan Johar once said of actor Kareena Kapoor. After a string of flat performances, the desperation to tear away from ditzy roles had begun to show as early as 2004 when she played a commercial sex worker in Chameli.

Eight years later, a 31-year-old Kareena has quietly grown into her legacy as Raj Kapoor's granddaughter. The serial coquette of uber-glamorous pomp-coms is ready for the big league with superstars as co-actors, better scripts and established directors. The year 2012 marks a watershed year for the actress who not only faces tough competition from gifted co-stars but has understood the fickle might of the urban audiences on the lookout for new talent.

For Kareena Kapoor, having grown up in one of the Indian film industry's most illustrious families, it has also meant putting up with its tradition of not allowing its women to work in cinema. With a gawky height and an angular face deemed unfashionable for Hindi films, the 11-year-old Kareena would nevertheless follow her sister Karisma to the sets of her debut film Prem Qaidi in 1991. Her temper flare-ups were as well known as her complete lack of inhibition in front of a camera. She has had years to prepare in front of a mirror putting on mother Babita's make-up, simulating actor Sri Devi's dance sequences in the privacy of her bedroom without millions of audiences judging her every move. But after 40 films and 10 years of fighting off competition from some of the most versatile actors of her generation, Kareena has matured into a bankable actor reinventing herself with surprising ease, film after film.

"I am my own favourite"

Geet (Kareena): Dekho meri shaadi Anshuman se ho rahi hai and all that, but agar wo nahi hota toh you never know....shayad MAI bhi pat jaati! Just imagine. Aditya (Shahid Kapoor): Tum apne aap ko bahut pasand karti ho. Geet: Bahut. Mai apni favourite hoon.

In her career-defining film Jab We Met (2007), Kareena Kapoor, then 27, showed a side to herself previously untapped by filmmakers who repeatedly cast her in flirtatious roles tailor-made for India's new, moneyed audience in multiplexes. She completely dropped her guard and gave an endearing performance as a simple, small town girl who strikes camaraderie with a disillusioned millionaire. A mention of Jab We Met is pivotal to discussing her transformation from the posh Pooja Sharma or 'Poo' of Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001) - a film targetted at the NRI base in the US vicariously living the culture they have left behind in the country of their birth. Women who observe Karwa Chauth, men who land their helicopters in their front lawns and girls who sing and dance to Indian pop songs at their proms - KKKG had audiences collectively hating the cast for the impossible dreams they were living on screen.

It must be said of Kareena that she cut through the froth to find 'Geet', a role that was perhaps closest to her own nature and made it her own through a superlative interpretation that led to an army of Geet-wannabes in subsequent situational dramas. Suddenly, every girl wanted to be Geet and every man wanted her as a girlfriend.

"Agent Vinod will be my last action film"

The year has started on a good note. In the Imran Khan-starrer Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, Kareena is an extension of Geet, albeit a more mature one. As a hairstylist in Las Vegas and a protected girl from a Catholic family of free-thinking mad caps, she combines just the right amount of the ebullient with the naivete to force a conservative Indian audience to accept the unusual climax. Lined up this year are her films Agent Vinod with boyfriend Saif Ali Khan, Talaash with Aamir Khan and Heroine with Arjun Rampal and Randeep Hooda.

She is one of the few actresses in the elite top earning club whose standing in the industry is independent of what she delivers at the Box Office. Her share of flops never failed to reinforce her image as a glamorous actor who looks good on screen with almost any male lead. Yes, she has played her share as the mere prop in films such as Bodyguard and Ra.One but has redeemed herself with either an electrifying dance number or her comic spontaneity.

"Luck has worked wonders for me"

She seems to be leading a charmed life. With marriage on the cards with Saif, Kareena is reading the scripts carefully before signing on the dotted line. At 31, the actor is ready to move on to the next level, starring opposite bankable actors in films she hopes will make the history books. More than the money factor, Kareena's films this year reflect the thought she has put into her choice of projects. Signing up for Talaash and Madhur Bhandarkar's Heroine, after Aishwarya walked out due to her pregnancy, boosted her stocks further. The story of Heroine, that of a superstar whose career is on the decline, required an actor who had the domineering screen presence to match the performance of one of the biggest hits of 2011 - that of Vidya Balan in The Dirty Picture.

Besides, which actor doesn't want a cult film to his/her name?

As in any of Bhandarkar's usual films, Heroine will expose the dark underbelly of the film industry. Both Agent Vinod and Talaash are thrillers with superstars at the helm. While Kareena shares an intimate chemistry with Saif, Aamir is known for his fastidious perfection. The pair gave an endearing performance together in the 3 Idiots. The films promise mature performances from its leads and Kareena has to match steps with two of the industry's most brilliant actors. What The Dirty Picture is to Vidya, Heroine promises to be that one film Kareena can look back on as her career's landmark achievement.

"There's no competition"

As far as competition goes, she faces significant challenge only from co-stars Vidya Balan (Kahaani), Priyanka Chopra (Agneepath, Barfee), Katrina Kaif (item number in Agneepath and Ek Tha Tiger) and Sonakshi Sinha with Rowdy Rathore, SOS and Dabangg 2. For the rest of the year, the race to box office glory will be divided among stars such as Bipasha Basu (Raaz 3), Sunny Leone (Jism 2), Chitrangada Singh (I, Me Aur Main) and Rani Mukherji (Talaash, Aiyaa, Koochie Koochie Hota Hai), none of them an immediate threat. Agent Vinod, where she will be seen riding a bike, is her last action film, she says, but the worst of her own share of forgettable candyfloss romances on screen are behind her. She now wears better clothes on and off screen and has been criticized into trading her ultra-lean, size zero figure for something fuller and more curvaceous. Most importantly, she has visibly grown into a better adjusted adult who takes her image as a teen role model seriously. Let's hope it pays dividends this year.

source : IBNLive