Rare Poster

It's now available on ebay, if you guys wanna buy it. I haven't seen it before, I don't think.

Happy Holidays

I don't know if I have embedded this video before but this is a great way to sink in the festive spirit. Happy Holidays!

Anil' Success

Did you expect the film to be such a resounding success?

Not in the least. In fact, the other night Danny Boyle and I were discussing how both of us were totally overwhelmed by how well the film’s done. The only person who knew this movie was a sure shot winner was my son. Now, he thinks he has the gift of prophecy. So, I’ve told him to pipe down! But Akshaye Khanna insists I gift my son a car for being so spot on.

They seem to be getting really close as friends, don't they?

Akshaye's hits

IndiaFm has a list showing the hits of various actors from Dharmendra to Shahid Kapur. It lists Akshaye having only two hits, Border and Race. I am scratching my head. What about Humraaz, Hungama and Hulchul? The last, at least, was obviously a hit.

Akshaye nominated for Star Dust awards

Akshayes snags his first nomination for Actor in a Negative Role nomination for Stardust Sony Max Awards. You can go here and vote.

Did you look at the competition? Katrina for Race? Urmila for Karzz? For God's sake, I saw Drona and thought that Kay Kay was the worst thing to happen to Hindi cinema, ever. And he got one too! Akshaye will clear the field, no doubt, unless the jury is hopelessly biased. I still say Race is not Akshaye's finest but he is a shining star when comapred to these other performances which belong in the mud.

No Problem

Anees Bazmee is all set to direct No Problem for Anil Kapoor Productions. But will UTV which owns the title be willing to part with it?

Explains Anees, "That's right. The title No Problem is with UTV. I was supposed to make another comedy of that title for UTV with Ajay Devgan, Nana Patekar and Riteish Deshmukh. That didn't happen. I'm committed to make another comedy with Akshay Kumar for UTV. But the title No Problem suits Anil Kapoor's film. I hope UTV will part with it."

Explaining his single-minded focus on directing comedies Anees says, "It's the need of the times. Who wants to go to a movie theatre and be lost in gloom for three hours? The times are awful. People need diversion from their everyday worries. Even my next film with Salman Khan for T Series will be a comedy."

Anees has decided to stick to his jovial genre. "No Problem will be an out and out comedy with Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna and Anil Kapoor. I've worked with the other two, but Sanjay Dutt will be a first time."

As a writer-turned-director, Anees has many compulsions. "I can't direct comedies with double meanings which are so much in vogue. So I've to write my own comedies to make sure there's no vulgarity. I've written 51 films so far. Writing the film I direct slows down the process. But No Problem must be made because it's a brand name, Look at Golmaal."

Anees claims he hasn't seen Golmaal or its sequel. "But Ajay Devgan is a dear friend. And I'm very proud of Rohit Shetty who was my assistant…just like I once assisted Raj Kapoor Saab. That's when I met Boney, Anil and Sanjay. And I'm happy to have directed films for all three brothers as producers (Anees' It's My Life with Harman Baweja is produced by Sanjay Kapoor)."

Getting nostalgic Anees says, "During those good old days Chimpu (Rajiv) Kapoor and Sanjay Kapoor used to act in the short films that I used to photograph."

(Indiainfo)


We know at least one movie AK will be doing after Shotkut.

Sona Sona Roop Hai

I think he is singing about himself.

Akshaye tribute

Here's the newly created fanclub if you wanna join.

Aisha by Outlandish

Thanks for the tip! He is on at 3.22. This is so cool. Made my day. Is he that popular in Morocco?

Tara on Akshaye

With so much going for her at the moment, remind Tara of the past when people linked her with Akshaye Khanna and without getting flustered, Tara says calmly, "See, both of us studied in the same school and that's one reason why we go back a long way. We were close friends then and even now we share a good rapport. So, I don't get bogged down by all this talk." Tell her that Akshaye has said that she's the only woman he's ever loved and she answers, "Well, I can only speak for myself. Akshaye is basically a quiet person, so when he spoke about me, people read too much into it. Akshaye knows Roopak very well and he is still a dear friend."

(Indiatimes)

The only one he ever loved? It caught my eye but I don't remember AK ever saying that. Do you?

A Film Magazine Speculates on Awards

Now let’s move out of the laughing zone and in to the terror zone. In this category we have,

Akshaye Khanna in Race - He played the negative character in this Abbas Mastaan thriller. He played the character of Saif’s brother in the film. He delivered an amazing performance and acted brilliantly throughout the movie. Stands a high possibility of winning the award.

Katrina Kaif in Race - Has given a different performance than usual. She played the character of Saif’s sweet secretary who transformed into a negative character by the end of the film. She had done her role very convincingly and the viewers just found it hard to believe the transformation of the sweet girl next door to the vamp.

Anil Kapoor in Tashan - played the role of bhaiyaji. He had given a different look by drawing tattoos all over himself. He managed to entertain at the start, but after a point, the Hindi-English bhasha got hard to tolerate. Also, it was very difficult to decipher what he’s speaking most of the time. Not a very strong contender this time.

Kay Kay Menon in Drona - A super hero kind of a film- Kay Kay Menon played the character of Ritz Raizada, the main villain. The buzz was that about 22 crores were spent solely on Kay Kay’s character in a film which was made at a budget of 90 crores. But unfortunately the characters are poorly written. Kay Kay’s character was more clownish than devilish. The extent of his evil powers and its repercussions if he succeeds is not clear and more so the film did not do well in the box-office. A great actor like him has been wasted.

Imraan Khan in Kidnap- The film was a revenge drama where Imraan had given his best performance. He carried the cold look effortlessly. As hot and cool as a cucumber, Imran walked through his role with intimidating ease. His immediate release after the blockbuster hit Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. the film dint do well in the box office but Imraan’s performance was worth an applaud.

Niketan Dheer in Jodhaa Akbar - A magnificent epic. This new comer looked promising. The climax had been handled with utmost sensitivity and maturity, and it was been executed with flair and tact. Ashutosh couldn’t have got a better villain; he’s taller and broader than Hrithik which added to the fight.


(Real Bollywood)

If that's the field spread, I guess Akshaye should have it easy in picking up an award or two in this category. Except that he is not popular with the film fraternity or the press, so they will look for an easy way out to give the award to someone else.

Anil's next with Akshaye and Sanjay

Anil Kapoor will soon be seen in his home production for the first time. The actor, who is currently busy promoting the Golden Globe nominated Slumdog Millionaire says that Anil Kapoor Productions’ next will be an Anees Bazmee film.

The yet-untitled film will star Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna too. “It’s an action comedy and a multi-starrer, with Sanjay paired opposite four heroines,” he said, adding that he can’t divulge details yet. “Akshaye and I are not as lucky though and are paired opposite one heroine each.” The veteran actor is also excited about the opportunity to do an action film again. “Race did well at the box office and now I am looking forward to this project.”

Anil Kapoor Productions current project, Shortcut - The Con is On, also starring Dutt and Khanna, releases in March next year. The new project will go on floors immediately after the release, confirmed the actor-producer.

(Indian Express)


Anil is such a cool guy!

Akshaye stays neutral

They seem to have formed mini-government-like-parties... All of a sudden we hear that Vivek Oberoi is part of Shah Rukh Khan’s camp, and that Shah Rukh and Salman aren’t a part of the same clique or then Sanjay Gupta is ousted from the Sanjay Dutt-Suniel Shetty gang, and has formed one of his own... and so on and so forth. Anyway, to cut a long story short, Akshaye Khanna prefers to be neutral in this tug-of-war.

Ask him about camps, and which one he belongs to and he quickly says, “The only camp I know and belong to is the Malabar Hill camp.” Looks like this townie boy prefers this residential hill to any of the other camping addas.

Even Times of India is feeling the pinch of not hvaing any Akshaye news, as it recycles this months old news item.

I like this re-write even more:

The highly talented and smart actor Akshaye Khanna who has been wowing the audience with his performance and looks was in the focus with so much happening at Bollywood due to the star wars. However, when he was asked about whose camp is he in, Akshaye flashed his thousand volt smile and said that the only camp he knows and belongs to is the Malabar Hill camp. Finally, there is someone who prefers to be neutral amidst the issues and fights.

More on Shortcut edits

Actress Amrita Rao has been stuck with a Miss Goody image for quite a while now. The actress is understandably quite desperate to shed that image and keep herself in the league for all kinds of roles.

Her role in Neeraj Vora’s Shortkut, is apparently an attempt to do just that. The actress was cast in the film opposite Akshaye Khanna and she supposedly had some romantic scenes opposite Akshaye, which it seems have been edited out. It seems that the actress had gone on a dare bare mode for the film, so when she discovered that her role had been chopped, she is believed to have retaliated by delaying the film’s dubbing. According to sources, after she voiced her opinion, a special scene was shot with her in it, reportedly to appease her.

To be a part of the race, Amrita needs to stay in the limelight, which was one of the reasons she signed this movie. She also hoped to prove her point with her dare bare strategy in this movie. But it seems that her efforts may have just gone in vain.

It seems that Akshaye has the chunkiest role in the film, which is produced by Anil Kapoor. The fact is not surprising, as Anil and Akshaye share a very good relationship. The other actor in the film is Arshad Warsi. But to come back to Amrita, the actress was last seen in Welcome To Sajjanpur in one of her usual roles.

(Bollywood Insider)

Please don't cut any hot scenes between Akshaye and Amrita. He's probably the most shy Bollywood hero ever and we need to see him lose some of his chaste behavior.

Still, I am very happy that he has the biggest role and I am very grateful to Anil.

Akshaye on eating with one's hands

Akshaye elaborates:
Akshay Khanna was on this eatery show on a news channel one Sunday, and the anchor was surprised to see him, eating by hand. He replied, “Eating is an experience, that should satisfy all the senses- you see the food, you smell it, you taste it, you can hear yourself eating it, and the sensory experience is complete only when you feel the food with your hands.”

Best Villain Nom in the works?

Will Akshaye win a Filmfare Nomination for Best Villain for Race?

I am sure he would definitely get a nom but will he win it? Humraaz was a much superior effort and he didn't win for that one. Many people on Indiafm forum are rooting for him, so I'd say he just might this time.

Which Akshay(e)?

OK, I'm now getting scared. Some reports are suggesting that it is Akshay Kumar and not our Akshaye. Somebody please clarify quickly that it's the one with the E!

Rate Akshaye!

Site here wants to rate Akshaye. Go and give him full marks in every department

Akshaye to do a guest role again in a YRF movie

Shah Rukh being lined up by Yash Raj Films for Shimit Amin’s second coming

The producers, directors and story writers of 2007 mega hit Chak De! India are to join up forces once more, it has been revealed.

Yash Raj Films have commissioned a script by Jaideep Sahni that will be shot on celluloid by Shimit Amin for a 2009 blockbuster. Speaking to Bollywood website, Sahni confirmed, “I am currently working on the script for Shimit’s movie that is being produced by Yash Raj Films. The scripting is in the final stages and pre-production will begin soon.”

It has also been reported that Shah Rukh Khan might be approached for a pivotal role in this film, which is expected to be a multi-starrer and include the likes of Shahid Kapur, Akshaye Khanna and Anil Kapoor in guest appearances. When contacted by the same website, Yash Raj Films’ spokesperson said, “We will announce Shimit’s film when we are ready to do so.”

(Radio Sargam)


When are they going to offer him a full-fledged movie? He could rescue them from their slump.

Akshaye's fab new roles

Chandbhai is Nikhil Advani second directorial venture with Warner Bros. after Chandni Chowk to China. Akshay Khanna & Vidya Balan star in this emotional heartrending story of how a struggling director transforms a rebel inmate of a remand home. It tells the story of how two characters change their life by facing their inner demons and embracing life and happiness in the process. Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy are the music directors of the film.

The third film is Basra starring Akshaye Khanna and directed by Navdeep Singh. It’s a story of a spy and a cop’s lives intertwine in a dangerous game of espionage, betrayal and revenge triggering off from the deserts of Iraq and moving through the underbelly of Mumbai’s drug and flesh trade and finally ending at the powerful corridor’s of politics in Delhi.

(Web Wire)

The first movie reminds me of Seema, one of my all time favorite romantic movies and the second looks like some gritty stuff. Both should have great dramatic potential for Akshaye to display his talent, could also help him to get out of the rut of formulaic movies. Cool stuff!

Akshaye to be paired with Vidya Balan

Warner Bros Pictures India has entered into a deal for the production and distribution of three films from Nikhil Advani and Mukesh Talreja's People Tree Films.

Advani directed Warner's first Hindi production, Chandni Chowk To China, which is scheduled for release on Jan 16, 2009.


The three-picture slate includes rom-com Jaane Kahaa Se Aayi Hai directed by newcomer Milap Zaveri and starring Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez and Ruslaan Mumtaz. Under production, the film is scheduled for a summer 2009 release.

In addition, Advani will direct a second feature for Warner Bros India entitled Chandbhai, set to star Akshay Khanna and Vidya Balan.

The third film, entitled Basra , is a spy thriller, starring Akshaye Khanna, which will be directed by Navdeep Singh, whose credits include the indie noir film Manorama Six Feet Under.

Speaking on the deal, Richard Fox, executive vice president, Warner Bros International said: "Nikhil Advani and Mukesh Talreja are dynamic creative individuals whose vision we share. We hope to have a long and successful association with People Tree Films."

Blaise Fernandes, country head, Warner Bros Pictures India, added: "It's a pleasure to associate with People Tree Films after working with them on Chandni Chowk To China which has shaped up extremely well."

Talreja said of the deal: "We are proud to associate with Warner Bros for three more films after Chandni Chowk To China. We are looking at releasing Jaane Kahaa Se Aayi Hai in the summer of 2009, Chandbhai during Diwali 2009 and Basra at the end of 2009."

People Tree Films aims to introduce and nurture acting and technical talent.

(Screen)

Oh goody! Plus he gets to be seen in a noir. I am officially dead and am in heaven. Noir? If he killed us in the listless 36 Chinatown, imagine what he could do in a stylist gritty thriller!

BTW, the news is all in the foreign media, so this info could be reliable. Praying that it is. I love Nikhil Advani. Also, very glad that Akshaye finally found a smart production house to back him up with worthy projects.

Sunday Open Thread

I get nervous when nobody comments on my posts.

Akshaye building a new house

Actor Akshaye Khanna, who currently lives in one of the most beautiful apartment buildings in Mumbai, in the tony neighbourhood of Little Gibbs Road, has purchased land in Alibaug, a village outside Mumbai, and plans to make it his permanent residence. He has top architects Bijoy Jain and Pinakin Patel for neighbours, as well as model coordinator Rasna Behl. All of them have given up city life in favour of an idyllic landscape and an easier pace.

(Indian Express)

Akshaye at dead end?

Mirror says that Akshaye is at a dead end. It's painful to acknowledge but I think it's true. He doesn't have a single great movie except one lame comedy next year. It's an uneven but fair list which also includes Abhishek Bacchan and John Abraham, so it reduced my heartburn a bit.

Making of MBPA title song

Smokin'

Your assignment? Find out when this is from and post the links here.

Update: So, this was from Arjun Rampal party at Taj in September? Thanks for the tip. Another pic.



I like this pic more n more. It's gotta kind of sexy cool vibe to it.

Sunday Eye Candy

No actress got these many rave reviews after Vidya Balan in Parineeta. Haven't seen her act in Sorry Bhai yet but am already in love with her. Wishing really badly she'd be cast opposite Akshaye. They'd make one terrfic couple. I am sick of Amrita Raos and who' she-s who are cast opposite him. Akshaye needs a sexy, powerful heroine to recharge his batteries. We recommend Chitrangada Singh!

Akshaye Khanna - Cosmopolitan Top Sexy Man

AKSHAYE KHANNA
AGE: 33
WHY? Who can resist those dimples, the naughty smile and innocent eyes? The fact that he is single only makes us think we stand a chance!

(Cosmopolitan)

Akshaye in Top 20 Sexiest Men--Cosmopolitan

He's at 11. That's a pretty good, cerebral list. He's just one place behind Shah Rukh and ahead of Salman. We also get a new mag pic in ages. Looking for a bigger scan.

Paresh on Akshaye

If you consider Akshay Khanna and Abhay Deol as new actors then I have no issues. I will like to work with them over and over again.

Did Bacchans backstab Akshaye?

Looks like there's more to the eye than what's reported to that Teen Patti story. Did Amitabh backstab Akshaye? On top of this, they went to media with stories of how Akshaye refused to do the role. Disgusting.


Now Bachchans backstab Akshaye Khanna, actor replaced by Ajay Devgan

According to sources, actor Akshaye Khanna had been approached by producer Ambika Hinduja for a guest role in Amitabh Bachchan headlined Teen Patti. But, when he arrived on set for the shoot, fellow actor Ajay Devgan was already there shooting scenes that he was supposed to feature in.

A source in the unit reveals, "Akshaye had agreed to be a part of the cameo and he was all geared up to shoot but when Amitabh learnt of the guest role spot, he called Devgan (who was linked to the project in the initial stages) and asked him to shoot for the two-day part in the film. Devgan agreed immediately."

A source close to Devgan admits, "Though he is shooting for his home production Toonpur Ka Hero, Ajay immediately agreed on the special request of Bachchan as he is very close to the Bachchan clan.

When Amitabh was approached about this sudden urge for calling Ajay and not letting Akshaye know, he responded by saying, "No, I have not called Ajay. I don’t even know whether they (Khanna and Devgan) are doing a cameo in the film. The director decides all this. Check with her."

Fans of Akshaye Khanna are not happy about this. Discussing the situation on a Bollywood discussion website, one fan writes, “Akshaye is probably the only person who has helped Amitabh Bachchan’s daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai in getting a hit film – Subhash Ghai directed Taal. For Big B to do this to him and not even let him be aware that he was being replaced is back-stabbing – something which the Bachchans seem to be doing left right and centre. Akshaye really needs some work now. Ajay is doing films all over the place”

Radio Sargam is a sensationalistic site but sometimes its hits are true and they also print news found nowhere else. If this is true, why is Akshaye keeping mum? BTW, does anybody have any idea what fan forum that could be?

Music preview of Shortkut

Anil Kapoor is keeping busy. While first half of 2008 saw him appearing in three films as a lead protagonist - Black & White, Race and Tashan - second half of the year is ending with Yuvvraaj. Meanwhile, he is all set to unleash his production Shortkut - The Con Is On which is expected to arrive on 23rd January 2009.

This writer got an exclusive hearing of the songs that have been composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy with lyrics by Javed Akhtar. There are four songs in the film's soundtrack where the musical team is seen in its elements once again.

Title song 'Shortkut', which is also the opening number in the album, is quite rhythmic and makes for a peppy hearing. A theme song, what makes it special is the sheer energy that Shankar Mahadevan fuses into it in the capacity of a singer.

The number which is expected to get the house on fire though is 'Koi Ye Na Jaane' that has a Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy stamp all over it. A core Indian number with naughty traits to it, the song reminds of the title song of Salaam-E-Ishq. Picturised on Arshad Warsi and Amrita Rao with a beach setting to it, the song has fun quotient as its USP.

From fun, it's time to get into a romantic rendezvous with 'Nau Baje' that sees the coming together of Sonu Nigam and Alka Yagnik. It is nice to hear Alka Yagnik since she is selective in her choice of songs (her 'Tu Muskura' from Yuvvraaj still lingers on). A soft number with a poetic touch to it, this number which is picturised on Akshaye Khanna and Amrita Rao has a strong R.D. Burman influence to it.

Finally there is 'Mareez-E-Mohabbat' about which buzz has already been created ever since the word spread about Anil Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt making a special appearance for this item song that also features Amrita Rao. A peppy track, it has the potential to be the next 'Kajra Re' in the making if choreographers Bosco-Caesar have done their job well in getting the right moves on.

Shortkut - The Con Is On is directed by Neeraj Vora and also stars Simi Garewal along with Chunkey Pandey. Anees Bazmee, who has given three back to back hits in the form of Singh Is Kinng, Welcome and No Entry, has written the screenplay of the film. The soundtrack is expected to arrive in the middle of December.

A detailed review would follow soon. Watch this space!

(indiafm)

Shortcut Release

Shiortkut releasing on 26th Jan along with Luck By Chance and Raaz 2.

Production Issues

Straight from the horse's mouth:

Aren’t you directing Voice From The Sky?
Yes, I intend to direct that film. We had cast Akshaye Khanna but there are certain production issues that have to be sorted out. I will also be making the sequel to Don with Shah Rukh Khan. It will go on the floors sometime next October or November.

Bad News: Voice From the Sky postponed

Director-turned-actor Farhan Akhtar has postponed his next directorial venture, Voice From The Sky, to act and produce a psychological thriller to be directed by debutant Vijay Lalvani.

Farhan said, “Voice From The Sky is currently being pushed forward. Instead, Ritesh Sidhwani and I are producing a film that will star me in it. We start in March. It is a really good script.

I have a great role in the film. And that’s what finally tilted the scale towards my taking up another acting assignment.”

Farhan and Riteish would be joining hands with Surge Entertainment to produce this film.

(Mumbai Mirror)

Good question

Good question.

Why Neha Oberoi? Sanjay Dutt is promoting her apparently. I think because Akshaye is so accomodating, he is taken for a ride by his producers. Right from Riya Sen and Joythika, every fresh-faced muppet gets to be cast against him. Some like Genelia are good choices. But come on. They don't sign big heroines opposite him because he doesn't demand it. Just as they don't get him a good wardrobe because he doesn't throw starry tantrums either.

I had to bitch about that because it's been on my mind for some time but I am glad Akshaye is doing the role. If in fact, he is. I won't be sure until we shooting starts.

Glory days

Neha Uberoi cast opposite Akshaye

Subhash Jha confirms the news? Akshaye is definitely in a Sanjay Dutt produced movie. Neha Oberoi is cast opposite him.

Akshaye dubs for Shortcut, loses a small role

If Amitabh Bachchan were to request another actor to make an appearance in his film, it is doubtful whether anyone in their right minds would refuse. And actor Ajay Devgan did just that. He gracefully agreed to the Big B''s request, according to reports.

It seems that there was a cameo in the film Teen Patti, being produced by Ambika Hinduja and directed by Leena Yadav. The makers approached Akshaye Khanna, but he was not able to do the film, hence they started looking for another actor.

But the problem was to find an actor who would be willing to step in at the last minute and act in a film dominated by the Big B. Surprisingly, not many were interested. Hence, the Big B decided to step in himself and use his personal charm.

Well, he seemed to have succeeded as actor Ajay Devgan instantly agreed to do the cameo in Teen Patti, which will require him to shoot for a couple of days. It seems that Akshaye was called at the last minute to dub for Shortkut, where he plays the lead.

The actor had no other option but to go ahead with his dubbing, leaving the makers of Teen Patti in a quandary. That's when Amitabh came to their rescue and asked Devgan to step in, which he did.

(mynews)

Is she Akshaye's girlfriend?

Heard a rumour. Been wondering.

Is he gonna really get this movie?

Santhoshi produced Akshaye's Doli Sajake Rakhna and offered Khakhi to him, which Akshaye turned down to work in Deewaar(why couldn't he work in both of them?).

Why would Santhoshi come to Akshaye? Because they have a powerhouse play which requires seasoned actors to headline it. Salman isn't that good an actor but he's a big star. Saif a better choice but if he won't do it, there's no way they are taking the likes of John Abraham. That leaves our Akshaye and the fact that no one in Bollywood can shine like Akshaye does in a well-written role. Akshaye got Voice from the Sky when Saif rejected it. Hope Saif keeps rejecting more roles!

I knew that both of them were in competition for the same slot in Bollywood__that of suave, sophisticated adult men who also have great range as actors. Saif beat Akshaye when he jumped on the Yashraj bandwagon, leaving Akshaye to fend for himself through downmarket comedies. But, now that Saif is in a bigger league, Bollywood needs to tap the waiting goldmine potential in Akshaye.

The next year, he's already got Voice from the Sky which should be a multiplex hit; Nikhil Advani's Chand, it that works out, should be a gritty emotional drama; and this Raj Santhoshi flick. I was getting worried that he was being typecast in Anil Kapoor comedies. I am so relieved.

Fingers crossed for the confirmation.

Akshaye in Jis Lahore Nahin Dekhya?

Films based on historical adaptations have been a popular trend in Bollywood. It includes big flicks like ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, ‘Tajmahal’, ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ etc.

Now director Raj Kumar Santoshi also takes up the play way.
His next film is an adaptation of Asghar Wajahat’s play ‘Jis Lahore Nahin Dekhiya O Jamian He Nahin’. This film will see Akshay Khanna and Sanjay Dutt in lead roles. Both will play brothers in this historical adaptation.

It is known that actor Sanjay Dutt has roped in new talent Neha Oberoi in this film. She plays a cast opposite Akshay Khanna.

The director is well-known for his films l'Khakee', 'Halla Bol' etc. Hope the magic continues.

(india-forums)


This is exciting! Jis Lahore Nahin Dekhya is a huge play and I am researcing it to find out whether it will be as good as Gandhi My Father for Akshaye. Hope it is!

UPDATE: This post a while ago says that it's Sanjay and Salman with Neil Mukesh playing a third lead. Did Salaman drop out? Looks like it's the lead role (if Salman was optioned for it).Anyway, it's prudent to wait for confirmation before we start getting excited.

UPDATE 2: Looks like it was offered to Saif as well and that didn't pan out.Uh oh, was Ranbir aproached as well or is this a different movie?

Pure Akshaye awesomeness

That Familiar Panic

Today, it started. Its like you have been busy hunting for your soulmate and the process looks like fun. But as soon as you are committed, you realize the scare hiding inside you. Remember Akshay Khanna in Salam-e-Ishq or Rahul Bose in Pyar Ke Side Effects.

I am experiencing it too!

Akshaye growing beard and getting lonely again

Oi oi.. I do know that Akshaye Khanna is still rather shy and reserved types. Still, this tiddy-bitty surprises me. On Sunday morning, at the Willingdon Club, Akshoo, who regularly plays squash, was enjoying a game of badminton for a change.

He was sporting a beard which I’m told is going silver just like my Vijjy’s. Anyway, a middle-aged gent spotted him and asked his two sons if they recognised the dude with the daadhi. Akshoo ran off before the bachas could say, “A.” Really now, why can’t some people just let my Akshoo be! Meanies.

(Hindustan Times)

He has this annoying habit of withdrawing into his own space after a movie flops: no interviews, no photos, no events or parties, no movies. Snap out of it!

Anil says Akshaye's costumes in Shortcut are fabulous

Why have you hit the ramp today?
I have known Kunal for a while. He is someone whom I’m very fond of and I decided that I should be there today. He is also associated with my forthcoming production Shortkut (a film which stars Akshaye Khanna, and Amrita Rao in lead roles). His designs for Akshaye in the film are fabulous.

Here's hoping!

Oops, Is Akshaye out of Anil's new movie?

Anil has currently in production a comedy film, Shortkut starring Akshaye Khanna, Arshad Warsi and Amrita Rao with himself and Sanjay Dutt in a special appearance for a dance number. He intends to start his third production very soon starring Sanjay Dutt, Ritesh Deshmukh and himself in the lead to be directed by Anees Bazmee which is also an out and out comedy. So all his fans expecting him to play those mature and serious parts again be prepared to get dissappointed!

(new kerala)

Or is this just a reporting mistake? Ritesh likes AK and I'd love to see them together.

Shortcut- music preview

More over 'Dard-E-Disco', it's going to be time for some 'Mareez-E-Mohabbat' in around a couple of months from now.

And while Shah Rukh Khan had shown his six-pack abs in the Om Shanti Om song, Anil Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt have decided to take a 'shortcut' by being fully covered in the number 'Mareez-E-Mohabbat' which would be on air soon.

The song has been picturised for Anil Kapoor's home production Shortcut - The Con Is On and features the 'jhakaas' actor with 'munnabhai' Sanju baba.

Confirms a source attached to the film which should find a way in theaters early 2009, ''Shortcut - The Con Is On has Akshaye Khanna, Arshad Warsi and Amrita Rao as the three leads.

However, Sanjay Dutt and Anil Kapoor would be seen in a guest appearance. The number is called 'Mareez-E-Mohabbat' and who else but Javed (Akhtar) saab could have come up with such lyrics?''

The number features Amrita Rao as well and has been choreographed by Bosco and Ceaser.

''Shooting for the song is through and it has turned out quite well. Sanju baba and Anil Kapoor had a blast dancing to this number, courtesy a catchy tune by Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy who have composed for the film. They have done a great job in creating an earthy tune'', says a crew member.

Incidentally, Anil Kapoor's last outing as a producer was Gandhi My Father which had received immense critical acclaim in 2007. However, Shortcut is a full on commercial venture and features three more songs in addition to 'Mareez-E-Mohabbat'.

While the title track 'Shortcut' is quite peppy, 'Koi Ye Na Jaane' is a fun romantic number while 'Kal Nau Baje' is a poetic love song.

''Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy have come together with Javed saab to make a good album with lot of variety'', adds the source.

Shortcut - The Con Is On is directed by Neeraj Vora and also stars Simi Garewal along with Chunkey Pandey. Anees Bazmee, who has given three back to back hits in the form of Singh Is Kinng, Welcome and No Entry, has written the screenplay of the film.

Dinesh Mills Ad

I finally got to see the Dinesh Mill ad. Akshaye looked cool but the ad was not that effective. The tag line is "Take the world in your stride." It shows Akshaye suited coming out of an office to meet a business adversary who is taken aback by Akshaye's confidence.

It's being shown repeatedly on business channels which is a good thing.

A guy mimics Akshaye Khanna

That was very little!

Akshaye n Arshad at an airport bar

A very grainy video. Imagine just walking into him like that.

Shortcut moved ahead

Shortcut now releaseing on January 23rd?

Priyanka to be Akshaye's heroine in Farhan's next?

“We were in talks with Irrfan Khan and Saif Ali Khan to play the male lead but things didn’t work out and so now Farhan has decided to cast Akshaye Khanna for the main lead. Priyanka Chopra is someone that Farhan is quite keen to have as the female lead. The subject of the film is quite different and said to deal with the introduction of the telephone line. Farhan plans to dedicate this film to his mom," informs a source.Farhan who has always remained quite tight lipped about his projects, replied to us over a text message about signing Akshaye. "The shooting of the film will start by 2009 and I have worked with Akshay Khanna in Dil Chahta Hai so now again..." writes Farhan.About Voice from the Sky .It is a periodic film with a setting of 1905 in Kolkata. It is based on evolution of telecommunication system. The movie is about a child and a telephone that emerged as a new means of communication. It's like a fairy-tale.

(bollywoodnbuzz)

Voice from the Sky news

After making, his acting debut in ‘Rock On’ Farhan is all, set for the direction of his new project ‘Voice from the Sky’.

It is a periodic film with a setting of 1905, Kolkata. It is based on evolution of telecommunication system. The movie is about a child and telephone emerged as a new means of communication. It’s like a fairy-tale.

Don’t get carried away by the title, it’s a Hindi film and will be dubbed in English too. Talking about the star cast so Farhan has approached Irfaan Khan, Saif Ali Khan but finally, it’s Akshay Khanna who bags the role and for female lead is still to be finalized.

Incidentally, this is a story, which Farhan had in mind for a long time but feels that now is the right time for such a film with the multiplex culture offering filmmakers to experiment with a variety of off-beat stories. Farhan dedicates this film to his mom.

Well this is not the end , sequel to ‘Don’ is also in the pipeline and once again SRK will lead the star cast.

Casting continues for Akshaye's new movie

After successful 'Singh Is Kinng', Anees Bazmee is busy these days with his next for Anil Kapoor’s production. The film which is still in scripting stage is already becoming talk of the town.

We already told you last week that the film will have Sanjay Dutt, Anil Kapoor and Akshaye Khanna in lead. Now Anees is in search of three heroines and six villains who challenge the trio! The film which will be a laughter riot will be launched in March next year for release in the same year.

(bollyvista)

Akshaye signs Anil's new movie

After the success of 'Welcome' and 'Singh Is Kinng', Anil Kapoor has signed director Anees Bazmee for his next home production for Rs 150 million. The film will also star Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna. When contacted, Anees said, "Yes, it is true that I am going to do Anil's film. I have been offered Rs 150 million for directing it. He intends to start work on the film just after he finishes his current film, 'Shortkut'. However, I am not doing the film just because I am being offered such a high price. My association with Anil goes back a long way and we have had a very successful working relationship. We have given two hits ('No Entry' and 'Welcome') together.

I am also directing his younger brother Sanjay Kapoor's first production, 'It's My Life'. The script for the film has not been completed yet. And let me assure you that it is a complete entertainer." About a decade ago, there was a war between Sanjay and Anil but it ended when Sanjay Gupta helped them reconcile. Sanjay was Gupta's partner in his production house - White Feathers Films. Anil was signed in for their production titled 'Musafir'. Later, Sanjay returned the favor by doing an item song in Anil's 'Shortkut'. He danced along with Amrita Rao and Anil. An industry source said, "Anil has signed Sanjay and Akshaye Khanna in the lead roles. Anil will also be playing one of the leads in the film. Amrita is being considered to play one of the female leads while hunt for two more actresses is still on."

(Smashhits)

Akshaye n Bipasha

I love the bedroom scene between Akshaye and Bips. They do have nice chemistry.

Akshaye's haristyle in Shaddi Se Pehle

You know many have commented on Akshaye's disastrous hairstyle in Shaadi Se Pehle. I was wondering the same too. Why did they give him such a bad hairstyle? Akshaye even had a fallout with Subash Ghai and the director about it.

It turns out Shaadi Se Pehle is a remake of Send Me no Flowers starring Doris Day and Rock Hudson. And Rock Hudson sports the same hairstyle! You have to marvel at Bollywood. Not only do they copy a Hollywood movie but they also have to copy the movie star's hairstyle.



Here's the youtube trailer of Send me No Flowers. Rock combs back his hair in many of the clips in the trailer, so it's not clearly visible in this trailer. Move to 1.14 or thereabouts but if you see the movie you'll know what I'm talking about.

BTW, does anybody feel that John Abraham is channeling Daniel Craig in Dostana?

(SSP pic from Briyanshu)

Thoughts on Akshaye's fashion sense and physique

Beth has a nice post of Dahek but have to warn she did not take her usual good snaps of Akshaye or even write that much about him either.

But she briefly touches on a point I've been pondering about for a while when she mentions 90s fashions. I have been wondering about Akshaye's fashion sense and even his physique. One day I was watching Friends Season One when Chandler was so slim and wiry like Akshaye is and it occured to me Akshaye dresses exactly the same. He's still stuck in 90s fashions. I wish I could take snaps to prove this. Alas, I am not good at that and I don't have any experience of writing about fashion.

In DCH days, he did build his body up from his slim frame before and from then on, he has been really strugling with weight. The way he handles his physique is very casual. He did build his body but without the six-pack pecs,the washbaord abs, jutting pelvic muscles and waxed chests that are the standard now. He didn't get the desginer body look that is common now but was introduced in India only after fashion boom in the late nineties and really caught on after Salman bared his chest in Pyaar Kiya to Darna Kya. He's doing it the old way and there's no reason he can't do it if Shahrukh and Ajay Devgan in their forties can.

That's why when he went shirtless in Race, which was required in the scene, there was negative reaction in the media about his 90s physique. I think he lost weight for MBPA and may have waxed his chest as well but we don't know that for sure.

So yeah, here on this blog we have been writing about Akshaye's lack of fashion sense forever. The point is he's still stuck in mid-90's look fashion-wise and physique-wise. He needs to change that.

Akshaye, please hire a physical trainer and get those rippling muscles, glutes and thighs. You may not like bare a lot but good physique shows. Get a personal designer to revamp your wardrobe (your Classic photoshoot with Filmfare is the example to follow). Not any designer but a funky, tasteful one (who won't ruin your look like in Naqaab).

Work on it. You have lots of free time. Surprise people. Do more covers for magazines. Do more interviews, ads. Be more in the public eye and you will have done what Saif Ali Khan did to his career, turn it around. I bet you'll be a bigger star because you are by far the best actor working in Bollywood today.

Anil Kapoor and Priyadarshan are fine, but you need to convince young vibrant filmmakers to cast you in their movies. Most of your movies (except maybe a DCH here or a Humraaz there) look like a relic from the past. I have written about this before and think your movie choice ties in with the theme of this post as well. Everything about your cuirrent movie persona and the roles you do seems to lack a sense of hip, a vibrancy and as if it's stuck in the past.

I know public has a lot of goodwill about you and every movie of yours they expect will turn around your career and make you a bigger star but we are disappointed time and again. I know public expectations are more from you than other actors of your generation. This can be a diffcult thing.

But you owe it to yourself and us to be a huge star. It pains me as a fan to be reminded of your wasted potential both as an actor and as a star. To shine as an actor, you need roles that match your talent and frankly that's dependant on other people. But, it is in your own hands to work on your look and create media buzz and rev up your star power.

Please consider this, if you ever get to read this blog.

Akshaye n Amrita Rao teamed again?

Anees Bazmee has been signed by Anil Kapoor for his next home production. The direction fees offered to him for the same is a staggering Rs. 15 crore.

An industry source revealed, “Anil Kapoor has signed Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna in the lead roles. Anil too shall be playing one of the leads in the film. Amrita Rao is being considered to play one of the female leads while hunt for two more actresses is still on. Amrita is playing the lead in Anil’s current in-production film, Shortkut, also starring Akshaye Khanna and Arshad Warsi.”

When contacted, Anees stated, “Yes it is true that I am going to do Anil Kapoor’s film and I have been offered Rs. 15 crore for directing it. He has offered me same also because he intends to start the film soon just after he finishes his current in-production film, Shortkut. But I don’t think so I shall do the film for such a high price offered. We have had a very successful working relationship with No Entry and Welcome. I am also doing his younger brother Sanjay Kapoor’s first production, Its My Life. The script for the Sanjay-Anil-Akshaye starrer hasn’t been completed yet. But its a complete entertainer let me assure you.”

There was a time when there was cold war of sorts happening between Sanjay Dutt and Anil Kapoor for over a decade but it got over when Sanjay Gupta who was Dutt’s production house White Feathers partner then, brokered peace between them and got Anil to sign in for their production, Musafir (2004). Sanjay returned the favour by doing an item song appearance in Anil’s Shortkut dancing along Amrita Rao and Anil Kapoor.

(realbollywood)

Akshaye on smoking

Akshaye Khanna: Smoking should be banned in public places, but not in movies.

(Zee Next)

Akshaye's new firend: Chunkey Pandey

Chunkey Pandey on Akshaye:

"Though he says it's tough to nurture friendships in Bollywood given the busy schedules, Arjun Rampal, Akshay Khanna and Sanjay Kapoor are among close friends that he meets up with regularly.

(Times of India)

For an allegedly aloof guy, Akshaye really has a wide range of friends.

More dope on Akshaye-Anil's new movie

Another source revealed, "Anil Kapoor's Disney film will only begin in mid-2009 but before that he intends to start a film to be directed by Anees Bazmee. Anil has even signed Sanjay Dutt for the same. Earlier, Anil had managed to rope in Dutt for a dance sequence along with himself in his current in production film, Shortkut. The new film, a comedy will also star Akshaye Khanna and Anil himself. The hunt for the three female leads in the female is still on."

When enquired, Anees admitted to having been offered the Anil Kapoor Productions film, stating, "Anil was offering me Rs 15 crore for this project, which he intended to begin soon. That's way too much for someone like me. I have done successful films like No Entry and Welcome with him and now am busy shooting for his younger brother, Sanjay Kapoor's debut production, It's My Life. So, we are like a family. I declined the amount but have considered the direction offer. But the script is yet to be worked upon."

(Buzz 18)

Akshaye vs Vinod

This article says Akshaye is not as hot as father Vinod Khanna. We beg to differ!

Did Akshaye lose Race sequel?

According to our sources, the duo has already finalised the script and is now on a look out for the cast except for the lead actor. Apparently the filmmakers are too impressed by Chhote Nawab’s royal panache to consider any other actor for the protagonist character.

As of now, Saif has confirmed to be on board with the project. But quite interestingly, Akshaye Khanna, who is a loyalist of the Abbas-Mastan camp, has not been approached for the project as yet.

Looks like Saif’s cunning streak has overpowered Akshaye’s wickedness!

(Zee news)

Aamir Khan on Akshaye Khanna

Which people in the industry do you look at for opinion, if you wanted one, on discussing the merits and demerits of a movie, its chances at the Oscars, for instance?
Rakeysh (Mehra), Ashutosh (Gowariker), Farhan (Akhtar), Akshaye Khanna, Amitji – these are among the people with a discerning eye. I’d listen to their opinion on my movie with interest.

(Times of India)

More fans of Akshaye out of the closet.

AKshaye signs Anil Kapoor's new production

After making a critically acclaimed film Gandhi My Father actor turned producer Anil Kapoor has decided to concentrate on box office success too. After GMF his next release will be Shortcut which is directed by Neeraj Vora, and it is still under production. And now Anil Kapoor has signed Anees Bazme to direct his next film which will be by his home production.

Anil Kapoor who shares a good rapport with Bazme has already worked with him in No Entry and Welcome . Bazme’s recent release Singh Is Kinng has made excellent business at the box office. Anees Bazme confirmed that he has been signed by Anil Kapoor Productions. According to him the film which is yet to be titled is going to be a multi starrer film. It will star three actors and six actresses in the lead.

Anil Kapoor personally went to Phuket where Sanjay Dutt was shooting for his forthcoming film Blue to sign him. Dutt has liked the story and has agreed to do this film. This untitled film also stars Akshaye Khanna in one of the lead roles. Akshaye played an integral role in Gandhi My Father . He is also part of Shortcut.

This untitled film will commence next year.

(indiatimes)

Sanjay, Anil and Akshaye? Isn't the casting a bit odd? When will Akshaye star in young, hip movies like Rock On or Dostana?

Farhan Akthar on Akshaye Khanna

Jackie: hey...who is your best friend in the industry?
Farhan Akhtar: hi Jackie... I have many friends in the film industry. They are all special to me. The people that i spend most time with are Shahrukh, Hrithik, Farah khan, karan and Akshaye Khanna


(indiafm)


Does he now, really?

Akshaye chats up with Vir Sanghvi

This was one of the best interviews Akshaye ever did. Watch it here.

I always thought he clams up if he thought the questioner was stupid or asking routine questions. But, the interviewer was intelligent, he talks like a charm.

He's damn cute in the video.

PS: After writing this post, I found this quote from an old interview:

We’ve been told that Akshaye Khanna is a difficult guy to interview. He’s known to stick to one-liners and monosyllables and if you rub him the wrong way you can be shown the door. That hasn’t happened yet?
(Laughing loudly) If you don’t ask stupid questions you’re safe!

Hah!

Akshaye with Benzair Bhutto

mag scans

Akshaye on VJ Salil's show

Akshaye's MBPA interview

Salil:
All right hello & welcome on Star Stop as we got well very very talented Akshay Khanna with us, always give us surprises & we love his performances & back of that fabulous performance in “Gandhi My Father” & thank you for joining us.

Akshaye Kumar (AK):
Thank you for having me.

Salil:
And there was mind blowing proytal by you & world loved it & I think… I think all the work & effort that u & Anil Kapoor put in it, ya it can be seen.



AK:
Ya it was special film, ya probably a… a…one of the important film of my career & something that experience & memories that I will genuinely cherish because we don't make… we don't make film that happen in the country, not lots of them.

Salil:
No one have the guts to show them to all.

AK:
Ya I was privileged to be part of it & also it was a great story, it was story that very few people knew about it, it was character that you know it almost in many ways raised from history, so for me as a actor to play that was great, it was challenge & prevailed I think, ya thank you.

Salil:
When we come to , this is an actually an interesting film that we are talking about today “Mere Baap Pehle Aap” the most interesting thing I find are about promos, I haven't seen such a talking promo about a long time , so it's like a narrative what's happening in the entire story.

AK:
Ya u see a… most of the Hindi film are promoted through music a… through there songs a… but we decided for this film to focus more on dialogues promo & it promoted through that, because a… we have so much material in the film, kind of hw to say, I m not trying to be pompous, we generally have a… lot of stuff which we think people will find interesting, a… much more attractive for audiences to see promos like that other than songs & dances a… because we have so much material & it worked.

Salil:
To generate interest.

AK:
Ya… and I think promos had done there work.

Salil:
And that's why we like it and also the premise of the film is hilarious, & because he is not looking wife for himself but wife for his father that's why it's Mere Baap Pehle Aap & a… great association with Priyadarshan as well.

AK:
Ya this is my fourth film with Priyadarshan & a… we made good film in past, they are certain combination that work, and they click and certain don't and I think me and Priyadarshan had a great run and we personally understands & genuinely fond of each other and a… I hope Priyadarshan continuously use me in his film till the time he makes them & a… I think its genuine comfort level or genuine understanding between director & actor. I think he use me quiet well, really actor's youknow… unless used well... I m sure you can understand there is not much u can do. So its director who use you well, kind of … that you get attracted to them… to work with them, a… you know what I mean…

Salil:
So if I say now that u have got two fabulous team to work with, Abbas Mastan also, you had done a great job in “Race” also & you got Priyadarshan also, so do you feel as you are moving ahead or AK is progressing towards the honeymoon phase of his career now or a… middle phase of your career as u feel that you are more restricting yourself to the people that just totally comfortable with them and lesser to the new talent.



AK:
a… no I had not restricted my self to anybody, I am an actor so I should be open to anybody. I haven't work with any new talent for a while now that's not I m close to them, because I haven't come across to which caught my interest, but new talent is something definitely that a… I had been more than happy to do, if everything is right.

Salil:
Everything is going to fit in place and that's basically how a film is made and that how the audience are going to see it and I think… this year is a testing time of the industry, and audiences are been very unpredictable as hit film are concern and I think this is a very tuff year, this one nice comedy coming up this year, we will take little break & coming right back.

Salil:
Alright you are on Star Stop and yes AK is with us, we are glad to have you here; thank you for joining us, alright this will be the first comedy of the year.

AK:
Ya probably yes but also a… it is a hilarious film, which is also… I think after a long time I really don't think of a last Hindi film which really a… genuinely feel good for you, I think may be TZP, but TZP was not comedy, but it's a film you know… you come out of the movie feeling happy about life .

Salil:
You were sure shot when you heard the script, did you straight away say yes?

AK:
What do you mean… when you say sure shot… box office wise.

Salil:
No no.., as far as your thinking is considered, you were sure you will do this movie.

AK:
Yes I was sure… I was absolutely sure I will do this movie. It something… I mean it is unusual. I mean… it's not kind of story that you heard everyday… its something new, I know everybody says the same thing… I know, but it is… I mean you see the promotions, basic premise of the movie and it is… something that you haven't seen before and it is something …a… that kind of …. Very heart warming, it's that kind of film… the relationship is written so beautifully and the chemistry between me and Paresh really worked…at least I think so. You can make it when you see the film, but… because it was essential that… because story was based between father and son, the chemistry really worked & we think we manage that.

Salil:
You had quite a good association with him.

AK:
Ya… I had a lot of films with Paresh now and he is great actor as everybody knows it but he is also a very nice person and we get long very well… off screen and I think we have a genuinely liking for each other and it really somewhere come on the screen and somewhere or other it rubs on the screen and I think that's really need and when you ask… what is the USP of the film than I would say you know… relationship between me and Paresh is the USP.

Salil:
Where would be Ompuri Ji is fitted in the film?

AK:
Ompuri, Ompuri is a… basically Paresh's childhood friend, who a… is constantly getting him into trouble, getting my father into trouble. So I can't stand Ompuri a… because he keeps a… u know my father keeps getting into trouble because of him and it was really fun and it's almost like family member to Paresh.

Salil:
So… so the whole film works out and like most Priyadarshan film, is there any characteristic ending which is beautifully choreographed with all the characters coming together a… which is nicely done and where there is lots of confusion…

AK:
I know… what you are talking about… about like the climax of Hungama.

Salil:
like Malamal Weekly or whatever…

AK:
Every film is different, this film do not have that kind of climax, but a… I mean equally good and I mean equally funny but the thing that I really liked about the film is script & also our scenes. There is no wasting time in the film, it's a very... how do u say, it is very real… it is very compact film, in terms of scripting, in terms of screenplay & in terms how it has been edited, how its been in a final product & there is not… a… there is nothing a… nothing you know in the film a…which shouldn't be there or which is dragging or which is slowing the story and that very fast phase, tight and hilarious film… so… so that's good.

Salil:
your confident work… alright.

AK:
One can never predict…... but a… I definitely feel that….. you know… that it's the film that people of all ages can enjoy, its not the film that targeting one section of the audience, I think… its… its universal kind of subject, in the way it been treated u know… it will be enjoy by… by anybody.

Salil:
Ok but… but most of the Priyadarshan films are family entertainment, we all look forward for it, I love confusion and all that a…and then there is sanity in confusion and all that, we will take a little break & come right back and there will be lot more talk with AK.

Salil:
All right Star Stop continues and AK continues chatting with us & thank you for with us & this is interesting phase, and before I talk about Genelia… I love the fact that you had chosen a very interesting role in last three- four years , very very different roles from saalme ishq, naqaab to race to Gandhi my father, its really very good run from last two three years.

AK:
Ya I think… a… I mean … I don't want to praising my self , but the fact is that fortunately for me as an actor producers, directors, writers, they do not look at me a.. in doing peculiar kind of role or film, they really offered me through out of the my career, a… a variety of stuff… you know because of actor you can choose from what you offered… right… I m not writer myself, I do not direct the film, I have to work on which people write for me and what people write for me and what people a… conceive for me and what they think I can do & fortunately for me they think… and they offered me … they continue to offered me… u know … a lot of stuff, they are more interesting for me & lot of actors a... a...

Salil:
pull it of…

AK:
No… no…pull it of, like that lot of … actors a… are used by directors, by writers, so I keen very happy for it.

Salil:
You are always conclude as a very malligable actor you know, u can mould in a way

AK:
So when u say I had done quite a variety of stuff a… how much time I don't know what u had mentioned , that is not because of me , because of… because of u know people offering me different stuff.

Salil:
So we happen to see u in different roles , with u also, with Paresh ji also, an interesting girl , she had done good stuff done so, she is there while back , now she had couple of films coming out.

AK:
Ya I had seen her in this film , in my film& I had couple of people who actually seen her next film.

Salil:
Janne Tu.

AK:
Ya which is that Aamir s film, & in which his nephew & they are getting praising for there performance as well as boy also , so I had worked with her in this movie first time and I really enjoyed it, she is very… ho do u say… u met her.

Salil:
ya.

AK:
She is got very… something very innocent about her u know… and I think that her most endeavor quality as an actor, even on screen she come across very nice person, u know I am saying… very innocent kind of feel and vibe she have…

Salil:
Difficult to find in girl.

AK:
Very difficult ya and that really works and she is good actress also, she is … someone who can observe and which is very important for an actors and I find specially… more often in women actors , that u know when they are directed they pretend to listen but they are not actually listening, u know what I m saying… they can really absorb what had been told to them, what I find Genelia is very… she is very listen… she genuinely listen and u know which is very good and she is spontaneous actor. She is… quiet of lot of energy on screen. I think she has a great future.

Salil:
Ya… high words of praise and I think spontaneity is important also when acting with Paresh Rawal and Ompuri Ji also

AK:
Ya… these are… these are seriously great actors, Ompuri my God, and Paresh is outstanding and both are great actors, it is always …. Always more fun and more interesting to work with people who are really are in command of there craft. I m working with Ompuri first time, I had never worked with him , I always respected him and really love his performances but I never actually worked with him and I really excited to work with him and just such a gentle… he is very gentleman and such a nice human being , so soft spoken, gentle, really nice guy , really enjoy working with him and I hope in future I will work with him.

Salil:
Thank u so much for joining me.

AK:
Thank u.

Salil:
And as always u know… there are few actors who… u would say they know there craft very well and AK will be one of them and we always love his performances, we hope to see u in future, as lot of films comings this year as well as next year.

AK: Just one more at the end of the year.

Salil:
We wish you all the very best and for more...

(B4U tv)

Children's film

“Farhan will begin directing Voice from the Sky early next year. This is a period film, set in 1905 in Calcutta when the telephone first came to India, a children’s film also featuring Akshaye Khanna. Then we have a really fabulous script — Crooked is its working title — to be directed by Abhinay Deo, an Agatha Christie kind of murder mystery of the kind that we’ve not yet seen. We will be looking at a mainstream international release for this.”

Business Standard

I am a Bachelor

The first time we were introduced to the glory called Akshaye.

Kaisi hai Yeh Agan

Two beautiful, talented people teamed for the first and last time.

Akshaye should branch out

It's great Akshaye is doing yet another Anil Kapoor movie. I am so grateful to him.

Anil Kapoor, Priyadarshan, Abbas-Mustan, Rajat Jain and now Farhan Aktar.. it's great that Akshaye has a fabulous but limited circle of admirers who trust him and keep coming back to him time after time. But it's also clear that he's being inhibited by this circle. We know the Chopra-Johar camp is closed to him because of some childhood grouses that Adi Chopra and Karan Johar have against him but there must be other filmmakers out there, new and old, who would want to work with him. Or are they all too scared of his reclsuive image?

One thing I noticed though that Akshaye wasn't first choice for many of his projects. He did challenging roles like Humraaz and DCH that no one else would touch and the directors and producers of these movies who first came to Akshaye because of compulsion, kept coming to him again and again because they liked working with him very much. Once they get to work with the real person, the media stereotype of arrogant recluse is shattered and they see how professional and talented actor he is.

That is why Akshaye should be doing more interviews, go out and talk with people more, express his interest, actively seek roles(there's nothing wrong with that), be in the public eye. That way people won't be intimidated by his reputation.

Akshaye should branch out more and do movies with other people too.

Akshaye signs a multistarrer

After scoring a hat trick with successful films like NO ENTRY, WELCOME and SINGH IS KINNG, Director Anees Bazmee is in heavy demand these days. Many producers have shown their keen interest working with Anees. And one such producer is Anil Kapoor who has roped in Anees to direct his next film. After GANDHI MY FATHER's poor show at the Box–office, the actor turned producer Anil is taking movie production business quite seriously. Since comedy is the flavour of the season Anil has decided to make comedy flicks. And Anees is currently leading the pack among entertainers.

Infact for this single project, Anil has offered Anees a whooping amount of Rs. 15 crore and already given a signing amount of Rs. 5 crore and 11 Lakhs. If the reports are to believed than this new outing with Anees would be an absolute laugh riot with 4 leading heroes.

Last week, after paying Anees a big sum, the producer and director flew down to Bangkok to sign Sanjay Dutt as one of the leading hero of this comic caper. Sanjay, who is currently shooting for his upcoming film BLUE in Phuket, gave his nod to Anil instantly as he liked the subject very much. Anil's favourite Akshaye Khanna has also been roped in to play one of the leading characters. The film is said to go on the floors by sometime next year. Meanwhile Anil is busy wrapping up his yet another comic outing SHORTKUT directed by PHIR HERA PHERI fame director Neeraj Vora.

(Glamsham)

Akshaye should do more of these. Since they are multi-starrers, they won't take much of his time and Akshaye won't be blamed too much if the movie bombs.

Kheva re Kheva

Wasn't Akshaye at his finest looking in Doli Sajake Rakhna? I don't think he looked better before or after.

Akshaye Urvashi dating?

Oops, looks like this video is from an year ago but they put it on YouTube just recently.

Akshaye praises Madhuri

Sunday Open Thread

Since we are in a recession, I thought I'd start this for time pass. Time for some silly questions every weekend.

Are you irritated when people confuse Akshaye Khanna with Akshay Kumar and vice versa? Why do people still do it? Though Akshay Kumar has earned my goodwill recently for sheer hard work, I mean, come on there's no comparision.

I just noticed that I automatically type the e at the end.

Another child movie!

Advani is also slated to direct another film for his banner, which is tentatively titled Chand. The movie is scheduled to go on floors in February next year. "The movie is about a child's journey from a remand home. We are in talks with Akshaye Khanna for this film," informs Talreja.

(Business of Cinema)

I really hope Akshaye striked up a partnership with Nikhil Advani and gets to star in some of the more commercial vehicles. Come on Akshaye, do it!

Voice from the Sky to begin shooting

What's Farhan Akhtar making next, after DON? Sure, he produced HONEYMOON TRAVELS PVT. LTD. and awaits the release of ROCK ON!! [he makes his acting debut with this film], but he hasn't placed himself on the 'Director's Chair' for a while now. But the wait is over!

Farhan begins filming VOICE FROM THE SKY from next month onwards. Is it an English film? "It's not! But it's a film that has tremendous international appeal. There's an audience for this film beyond India," Farhan's partner Ritesh Sidhwani confirms, "It's a period film set in 1905 in Kolkata. It's about a child and the telephone invention. It's a fairytale. In fact, Farhan wanted to make this film immediately after DIL CHAHTA HAI." So far, only Akshaye Khanna has been confirmed for the film.

Meanwhile, Ritesh and Farhan have also made Zoya [Farhan's sister] realize her dreams. Her directorial debut LUCK BY CHANCE is already complete. "Zoya has been working on the script since last five years. It's about the film industry that she has seen since her childhood in the 1970s, till now. It's about a struggling actor [Farhan Akhtar], a superstar [Hrithik Roshan], a Punjabi producer [Rishi Kapoor], a junior artiste [Konkona Sen Sharma]. Plus, a whole lot of stars making special appearances, including Aamir and Shah Rukh Khan," Ritesh divulges.

A sequel to DON is also in the pipeline. "Two people whom we didn't know at all came up with the idea of the sequel. We fell for it instantly. The script is finally complete and we begin filming next year," Ritesh states. Of course, Shah Rukh Khan would head the cast of the film.


A period film? Will it work? The story does have some Mumbai Se Aaya Mera Dost kinda vibe to it. Please, let it be better than that. Hope Akshaye has a great role in it. So far, it looks like the child's movie.

Watch Hulchul

If you are depressed by total lack of news about Akshaye, you can make up by watching Hulchul tomorrow. 15th August, on Star Gold at 4.30.

Lost

Akshaye "loses" the next Abbas-Mustan movie. Did he reject it or was it never offered to him?

Elusive

Elusive Akshaye Khanna

Akshaye Khanna’s got such an amazing smile. He’s truly inherited the luscious looks of his dad. A terrific sense of humour, too

Finally an interview

Although Akshaye Khanna bonds big-time with his dad he has sworn never to share screen space with him.

"I worked with my dad in my first film Himalayputra. It was an absolutely terrifying experience. There're certain people whom you shouldn't work with. My dad is one of them.

Mr Bachchan is another. To stand in the same frame as them confidently is impossible. They've such an overpowering screen presence. It's very difficult to match my father on screen. It's that quality.

Either you have it or you don't have it. I very frankly don't have it. I just don't have that kind of presence. There're some actors who just wash you away on screen. My dad is one of them."

Akshaye doesn't feel the same way about any of his contemporaries. "But yes, Govinda is another actor I feel the same way about. He's a very EFFECTIVE actor.

Govinda is a very scary actor. Even Sanjay Dutt has such an overpowering screen presence."

Interestingly and ironically Akshaye Khanna has done two very different and dimaterically opposite father-son films in two successive years

While Feroz Gandhi's Gandhi My Father featured Akshaye Khanna as Mahatma Gandhi's estranged son, in the new Priyadarshan comedy Mere Baap Pehle Aap he plays Paresh Rawal's son adamant to get dad married.

"Can you imagine two more contrasting father-son films?" Akshaye Laughs. "Mere Baap…is a genuine feel-good film. I like doing such films.

Every father and son would want to share the easygoing rapport between me and Paresh. My character puts his father's happiness ahead of his own. The son is more like a father, and vice versa.

Paresh's character is so childlike. My character is constantly shouting at and disciplining his dad. It's a very heartwarming kind of relationship. Paresh and I have always gotten along. We spend a lot of time together when we're working."

Is Akshaye happy with the quality of cinema he's doing? "I do the films I get. And I'd rather be in a successful film than a good film. Having said that I must say Gandhi My Father is the single-most important film of my career. Probably my best work. I'm immensely attached to it.

Interestingly 2008 is Akshaye's year of comedy. "Agreed my next release Short Cut after Mere Baap Pehle Aap is also an out-and-out comedy. But Race was not a comedy."

If you say so, Akshaye.

(santa banta)
God, we missed you so much, Akshaye!

MBPA released on DVD

Shemaroo Entertainment has released the home production film Mere Baap Pehle Aap on home video. Directed by Priyadarshan, Mere Baap Pehle Aap is a comedy flick.

While the VCD of the film is priced at Rs 99, the DVD will be retailed at Rs 299.

This movie portrays unconventional father-son relationship, played by Paresh Rawal and Akshaye Khanna.

Archana Puran Singh, Om Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, Shobana, Genelia D’Souza, Rajpal Yadav and Manoj Joshi also have played important characters in the film.

The DVD includes bonus content such as the making of the film, deleted scenes from the film and the promotional video ‘Mere Baap Pehle Aap.’

Thank you, Filmfare!

He might come across as another surprise on the list. Not much has been written about Akshaye Khanna though a lot has been seen and heard about him. Akshaye had a big hit with Race where he repeated the negative act in Abbas-Mustan film with finesse. Add to that he is the only actor to have an additional film on his list that met with average to above average success – Mere Baap Pehle Aap .

(Filmfare)

Akshaye has had a very good year so far box-office wise, much better than many bigger stars and this is the first time a film mag even mentions it.

Shortcut to release on Dec 19th

Tentative schedule here.

Akshaye n Sush

A great pairing, limited only to this cover.

Please send me more such links/ scans if you have any. I'd love to post any magazine covers of Akshaye paired with an actress.

Kudrat

I am bored of having no new news of Akshaye to post here. So, to make up, go and see these lovely caps Beth took from Kudrat. Wish I was as good at taking screen caps. I suck at it.

Coming to Kudrat. I saw the movie only once. That too on TV! I don't possess the DVD either. I know the movie was horrible and yet another daddy fixation story, this time, Akshaye plays both dad and son! But these pics made me realise how wonderful Akshaye was when he first appeared on screen. I want to go back there. Himalay Putra, Border, Mohabbat, Kudrat and Doli Sajake Rakhna. They maybe awful movies but they are still special because they featured a young actor so radiant and so special.

The Perils of Film Industry

Thank God, Akshaye escaped from such a travesty.

Akshaye gets caught up in Salman-Shahrukh fight?

Katrina Kaif's birthday party has sparked off furious activity (and we're speaking literally) at Mannat and Galaxy Apartments. The showdown between Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan has snowballed into a regular camp war, casting its effects across Bollywood. Both Khans are furious, their supporters are worried.

The industry is already taking sides. SRK's supporters camped at Mannat the whole day yesterday, discussing the incident and its fallouts. Sajid Khan and writer Mustaq Sheikh were the first to arrive. Then the calls started coming in. Farhan Akhtar called to offer support, so did Javed Akhtar. Arjun Rampal and Karan Johar made it clear that they were on his side. Kunal Kohli called SRK too. Yash Chopra called to enquire what exactly had happened, making it clear where the loyalty of Yash Raj Films lies.

Meanwhile, At Salman's place too the supporters and supportive calls streamed in. Kapoor called to commiserate with Salman. So did Fardeen and Zayed Khan. Kareena Kapoor called Sallu too. Akshaye Khanna called and tried to cheer him up. Govinda's support is obvious for Sallu, he didn't even need to call. Sajid Nadiadwala is away in Los Angeles, so probably unaware that everyone is indulging in a show of support.

Aamir Khan's well-meaning efforts seem to have been in vain. The industry is abuzz with the feeling that this is the end of the road for the Salman-Shah Rukh relationship. Neither of them is in any mood to relent.

(Mumbai Mirror)
Didn't know Akshaye belonged to Salmaan camp. Stay neutral, Akshaye, as always.