Akshaye's new pics

Only the first pic is something I haven't seen before. The other two I posted last year and could have been taken even earlier.

(Pinkvilla)

Hulchul song

This song was cut from the movie when i saw it in the theatre. This is the first time I'm seeing it. Woo! Akshaye-Kareena is the hottest pair, wonder why they never made another movie as a couple.

An Akshaye clone in France

Watch these trailers. He is stockier but Jean Dujardin is so like our Akshaye (especially in the second trailer). They are about the same height, have the same hair and nose. Akshaye's mannerisms are a little more pronounced than Jean's but Akshaye is more good-looking of course. This is what Anil Kapoor meant when he said Akshaye had an international appeal and talent to match it but our stupid directors will cast him only in Govinda-type comedies. He has the most international face and personality among all our stars but nobody wants to cash on it.





If any of you Bollywood geniuses are watching, you don't have to slog hard and create something new befitting the stature of Akshaye, just use this material. You're good at copying, no?

Akshaye attends Tanya Deol's collections

Bobby Deol's wife Tanya celebrated the launch of a new line of furniture and accessories with a fun co-hosted by Simran Lal, Beenu Bawa and Amrit Rai of Good Earth that saw hordes of Mumbai's swish set mark their presence. All 3 Deol men - were in attendance as also a number of their film star friends including Abhishek Bachchan, Diya Mirza and Akshaye Khanna. It was a surprise to see Rani Mukherji after such a long time. Tanya said I enjoy my work and it gives me satisfaction.

Kangana paired opposite Akshaye

Kangana owes her perfect 10 figure to a dedicated fitness regime that includes “yoga”, even amid her daily grind (she’s “up every morning by 4 am” and sleeps only at midnight). For someone who trusts her “instincts” while selecting films, 2009 has lots to offer Anurag Basu’s Kites (opposite Hrithik Roshan), No Problem opposite Akshaye Khanna and Milan Luthria’s Once Upon A Time in Mumbai.

Akshaye attends a fundraiser

Ashika Pohoomul (daughter of Gauri Pohoomul who was there to support her), Kajal Fabiani and Tiana Chellaram co-hosted a fundraiser brunch to create awareness and garner support for underprivileged children, the proceeds of which will go to two non-profit organisations Apne Aap Women’s Collective (AAWC) and Vatsalya, which the trio work closely with.

A whole younger generation was present at the brunch, proving that our party goers have a heart indeed. There was Laila Mallya who stepped out for this cause. She was seen having a blast with Shravanya Rao. Rishi Acharya caught up with Avinash and Arpana Panjabi. Gauri’s sister Kavita Khanna was there, as was her son Akshaye Khanna. Nandini Singh and Amruda Nair indulged in some girl bonding, while Bharat Mahtani and a male friend were seen bonding too. Durga Chalani dropped by later and Gauri kept her company.

There was a substantial amount of money that was raised through this initiative and it will benefit women and children. Way to go girls, a truly remarkable way to celebrate this special day.

(TOI)

A good film and al successful film

It's a rumour that Akshaye refused Nagesh Kukunoor's film. I hope it's not true but it touched a raw nerve with me.

Akshaye once said that he'd be rather in a successful film than a good film. He also once said that he doesn't like doing art movies because people will think that he's doing them because he's a commerical failure (this was after Taal and before DCH).

That's not a good philosophy at all. I know that he was disappointed by the response he got from Gandhi--My Father; he didn't get any award nominations nor any box-office success. He worked hard for over a year for the movie and he got peanuts in return. That doesn't mean he should quit looking for decent movies with nice roles written for him.

He has had his share of bo-office successes. At this stage in his career, unless a miracle happens, he won't become an overnight Hrithik Roshan. He deserves that stardom but it's not gonna happen if he has such a chilled out attitude towards movie-making that he won't take the trouble of getting a decent wardrobe or improving his physique and dance skills or increase his networking and start canvassing for roles. But, that doesn't mean he should compromise on quality filmmaking, which is more important for leaving a lasting legacy. 10 years from now, not many people will be watching Naqaab, Shaadi Se Pehle and Aap ki Khatir. I bet more people will be watching Gandhi--My Father.

He does very few movies as it is. Most of the year, he doesn't work at all. I don't understand why he won't accommodate off-beat movies if they come his way. I know that a lot of off-beat directors want to work him but are terrified of his reputation. He has never encouraged art directors.

We bemoan the fact that all he gets to do are crap movies which don't do justice to his talent at all and then he keeps refusing movies like Deepa Mehta's Earth and filmmakers like Kukunoor which do come his way. I hope he realises at this stage in his career, his fans majorly are from niche, class audiences who would rather watch him in quality stuff than see him doing Govinda reprises. I also hope he realises that vanishing for over an year in between films and making his fans wait for such long periods only to comeback with sub-standard comedies is not gonna do the trick either.

I don't mind him doing silly comedies. I just want him to do some good movies to balance that. I get angry at filmmakers who ignore such a talented actor but I also get irritated when he himself shoots down promising projects. I am a fan but not an uncritical fan and I get angry when I see his potential is not used, and yes, Akshaye is also responsible for that.

I hope he realises there's no unfathomable gulf between doing successful films and good films.

Akshaye refuses Nagesh Kukunoor?

Either way, we feel bad for Nagesh. He’s been running from pillar to post and even Akshaye Khanna and Abhay Deol have turned down the film!


Nagesh is a nice filmmaker. Hope Akshaye changes his mind, if this news is true.

Meeting Akshaye

Guys, I am back in India for a few weeks. I do so much want to meet Akshaye but I am terrified because I have never done anything like this and I don't know how to go about it. I am not staying in Mumbai but can travel there to see Akshaye but I don't want to wait at the gates or make a nuisance of myself.

Any suggestions? Mail me on akshayefan@gmail.com

He looks nice

Akshaye at Kapil Sibal's book ceremony:



Here's the video and he looks much nicer in it:

Akshaye attends Kapil Sibal's book ceremony

the very distracting sons of Vinod—Rahul and Akshaye Khanna.

Naughty come Sexy

Nikhil Advani is geared up to churn out his new venture. And this time, he will take the naughty looking cum sexy actor Akshaye Khanna in the lead role. And guess who is making a pair with him. Yes, she is none other than Vidya Balan.

The title of the film has been finalized and it says, ‘Chand Bhai’. The movie will be produced by Nikhil himself in association with Warner Brothers.

It is about a boy who likes to be a gangster and for doing this role, Nikhil is on a look out for the guy.

(radiosargam)

Voice From the SKy to start next month?

Farhan Akhtar’s Rock On is continuously making news due to its unusual star cast and music. This film also marks the debut of Farhan Akhtar as an actor. But does this mean he’s not going to direct films? Well! No. The good news is that the Akhtar lad will direct a film after Rock On, which is titled as Voice from the Sky.

According to sources, the film will go on the floors some time next month. It is also heard that the film will in English. But the director turned actor refutes the news, “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.”

Is the movie back in production or is this just rehash of news from the past?

Shortkut getting a re-shoot?

For a title like Shortkut, the movie is taking a bit too long. A jasoos in the industry tells me that director Neeraj Vora is reshooting certain scenes at the behest of Akshaye Khanna in his desi version of the Hollywood comedy, Bowfinger.

Reason: he’s not too happy with some portions where Arshad Warsi is mouthing funny lines while he speaks his dialogue with a straight face.

Can’t blame him since Warsi is replaying Eddie Murphy’s role while Khanna is stepping into Steve Martin’s shoes.

Apparently, Akshoo wasn’t too pleased as he felt there weren’t too many light-hearted moments for his character and wants to add some more fun to it.

Now now, I just hope Amrita Rao doesn’t expect her role to be increased next. Ooooof!

(Htimes)

Akshaye n Raveena

Weekend Treat

This is the very first pic I saw of Akshaye and have loved him ever since.

Akshaye in another Priyadarshan movie

Which are your forthcoming projects?
I have five mega projects lined up. I am finalizing a script for a film which may star Amitabh Bachchan and Akshaye Khanna. The story is about bank robbery. I’m directing it for Percept Pictures. I am also making a horror film called Grrr! for them. I am also making the Hindi remake of Majeed Majidi’s classic The Children of Heaven with Darsheel Safary, and Rituparna Dasgupta.

(Real Bollywood)


It's tentative.

Do you like Akshaye and Amitabh together? I don't think they clicked well in Deewaar.

Akshaye n Sush to star together

More on Anil Kapoor-Aneez Bazmee's movie:

“After the completion of this film I will be starting work on Anil Kapoor’s film in March starring Anil Kapoor himself alongwith Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, Sushmita Sen and Paresh Rawal.

This will be a hardcore commercial venture an action comedy.” he concluded.

I don't think she stars opposite him but it's good to have them together in one movie.

Akshaye invited to Sanju's anniversary

Everyone from Akshaye Khanna to Kunal Khemu has said yes.

Katrina talks about her friendship with Akshaye

On Farhan's show:
There is an interesting episode that Katrina narrates about her shoot for Race. When Katrina approached Akshaye to talk to him, he used to reply in short sentences (in his characteristic style). Once, when he was playing chess, Katrina asked him if she could join in too. Soon, it became their routine on the sets during each and every break during the film's shoot. Today, in hindsight, she believes that Akshaye was smart enough to shut Katrina by making her play the game. Reason? During the game of chess one can't talk much and hence it was the best idea that Akshaye applied to keep her quiet!

More:
She fondly admitted her friendship with Akshay Khanna who is her chess friend. They met and became chess mates on sets of Race where they routinely played the sport…to keep Kats quiet.

Sweeet! Exit question. When is Farhan gonna have Akshaye on his show?

"I get to star witha very talented actor"--Vidya Balan on Akshaye Khanna

It’s nothing like the high-flying glam-wham stuff that one expects from Nikhil after Chandni Chowk. Chand Bhai is a stark very real kind of drama. And I get to co-star with a very talented actor Akshaye Khanna with whom I was in Nikhil’s Salaam-e-Ishq though we had just one passing shot together.

Chaand Bhai not shelved but postponed

After the debacle of Chandni Chowk To China, everyone has come down really hard on director Nikhil Advani. The fact that Nikhil's earlier film Salaam-e-Ishq was a big dud didn't help his cause either.

While Nikhil seems to have taken things in his stride, the media and gossip-mongers don't seem to stop with their Nikhil-bashing. Recently, there has been a lot of talk doing the rounds that Nikhil's forthcoming directorial venture Chand Bhai (supposedly starring Akshaye Khanna and Vidya Balan) has been shelved.

We decided to check with Nikhil if there is any truth to this story or whether it is just a figment of somebody's imagination. "No there is no truth to this story whatsoever. Chand Bhai is very much on. It's just that we have pushed the starting of the film to somewhere around July as a very close family friend has taken ill. You will hear an announcement on the status of the film very soon", says Nikhil.

Well, we hope, at least this clarification from Nikhil would put all rumors to rest.

(indiafm)

Shobha De on Akshaye

Akshaye Khanna shone in his two minute appearance ( sardonic , cynical, quizzical).

What a star! He's there in a movie that has the whole film industry in it, for two minutes and he gets better reviews than everybody else. You write him a decent character and he's pure magic.

"Uunexpectedly super-hot"

What should have been a straightforward villain role is instead, via Akshaye Khanna's irresistible little dimples, cute Abercrombie & Fitch prep style and cheeky offers of gourmet pizza, something much more morally ambiguous and quite lovable! Uday's not out to get Madhuri. He's not angry or morally indignant or insane. He's just like, "Dude, I just want what's best for the town. What do I care?" Mall, theater, meh. A slice of sexy with pepperoni on top? WHY THANK YOU

A nice blog-review of Aaja Nachle comes with a totally cool screencap. Oh god, how I miss him.

Akshaye's wicked in Luck By Chance

This appearance did bring a smile on the face as Akshaye Khanna truly spoofed himself. Ever so indecisive and someone who goes by his instinct more than anything else, Akshaye Khanna is shown to be taking an eternity to decide upon the Rommy Rolly offer.

He doesn't say a word, he just thinks. And thinks. And thinks. And finally says 'No' with that sheepish grin of his. Wicked!

(santa banta)

Shortkut releasing on April 3

When will the marketing start?I have been waiting for this movie, like forever.

Basra limping along too

He has done it again. I’m talking of Nikhil Advani who has rubbed Rohan Sippy the wrong way. One of my jasoos types tells me that the nirdeshak of Chandni Chowk to Choona Town had changed the script liberally, after locking it with nirmata Sippy and the film’s cast.

Given the film’s fate at the box-office, can’t blame Sippy for resolving never to team up with Advani again. I’ve been informed by my jasoos that his co-producers have scheduled a meeting with Advani in the coming week.. to reconsider their deal with him.

Meanwhile, his next project is taking its own sweet time. As the creative director of Basra, Advani has a say in its casting. And while he’s okay with Akshaye Khanna, he’s unsure about the second lead.

When director Navdeep Singh suggested Emraan Hashmi, Advani reportedly told him it is beneath his dignity to even talk to the serial kisser. Huh? Really now! Methinks, after their war of words over money some months ago, it would be interesting to cast the two actors in a movie together. But then, you can’t expect much from Advani. Not after CC2C!

(Hindustan Times)

Uh-oh, Advani delaying the start of Akshaye's next movie

After trying his hand at comedy with ‘Chandni Chowk To China’, Nikhil Advani is set to make an emotional film, ‘Chand Bhai’ with Akshaye Khanna and Vidya Balan.

It is the story of a director and a 14-year-old child. The film will be produced by Nikhil along with Warner Brothers. Our source close to the director revealed, “Akshaye plays the young director. However, Nikhil is taking his own time to start the film. He also has ‘Patiala House’ with Akshay Kumar lined up.”

Nikhil confirmed the news and said, “Both Akshaye and Vidya have consented to do the film. But it is too early to talk about it. I am taking some time off and will decide on which film to do in a while.”

(indiatimes)

Looks like we have to wait much longer to see Akshaye paired with Vidya.

Snaps of Race

Briyan takes snaps of Akshaye and there are more at his site. I loved this one and I hope briyan won't mind me stealing it. WIsh I could take snaps like that.

Old pic

This is old but I haven't seen it from this angle.

Luck By Chance promo

Is it me or does his smile get more beautiful and versatile by the day?

Another win for Akshaye

Akshaye wins the Surfers Choice contest for Best Negative Role for Race.

Akshaye in Luck By Chance

Shortkut marketing to begin in February

From Anil's interview:
What is next for your production house, after Gandhi My Father?
I am currently preoccupied with Shortkut - The Con is On, starring Ak­shaye Khanna and Arshad Warsi, the marketing for which will begin in Feb­ruary. After that, I will begin work on Anees Bazmee’s comic film for my company. It stars Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt and myself. I am ecstatic with the ongoing response to Gandhi My Father and am just biding my time till I figure out future projects. But no­thing is excluded.

Akshaye in a guest appearance in Luck By Chance

Luck By Chance is Zoya Akhtar's directorial debut, and stars Farhan Akhtar and Konkona Sen Sharma in the leading roles. It is a film that revolves around the Hindi Film industry, and the trials and tribulations that occur when following your dreams. We've been hearing that many Hindi Film stars will be making cameo appearances in the film. In the latest promo, featuring the song Yeh Zindagi Bhi, we see some of these appearances. "Appearing By Chance" are Aamir Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor, John Abraham, Boman Irani, Akshaye Khanna, Karan Johar, Vivek Oberoi, Ranbir Kapoor, and Shah Rukh Khan.

Luck By Chance looks like it will be a great movie, and we'll certainly have fun picking out all the guest appearances. Be sure to check it out when it releases on January 30th!


(Bolly Spice)

Akshaye wins the race

Akshaye wins the Star Screen Award for Race. Congrats!

I missed the ceremony. Was he there? I didn't find any pics on the net.

Surfers Choice Nomination

Akshaye nominated for Surfer's Choice Awards. You can go here and vote. Vote often.

Akshaye snags Star Screen nom

Best Actor in a Negative Role (Male/Female)
Akshaye Khanna - Race
Anil Kapoor - Tashan
Ashwini Kalsekar - Phoonk
Dilip Prabhawalkar - Sarkar Raj
Ila Arun - Jodhaa Akbar

Will they give it to him?

Urvashi on Akshaye

Now that she’s matching wits with actors like Shabana, Om Puri and Vinod Khanna, is she in awe of these veteran actors? “Shabana ji is very professional, but Vinod Khanna is the complete opposite of his son Akshaye. The latter has an invisible sign written on his face, which reads ‘don’t disturb’. His father, on the other hand, jokes, laughs and plays pranks 24x7. After the shoot, he would tell me to drive along in his car, which was such a sweet gesture,”says she.

(Times)

Sid!

and yes Akshaye Khanna….I don’t know if anyone else could have portrayed Sid that well in DCH, it looked tailor made for him

Funny villain

3. Akshaye Khanna (Race)
There is something about coming together with the director duo of Abbas-Mustan that makes Akshaye Khanna a mischievous villain of the piece. He did that earlier in ‘Humraaz’ and last year did that again in ‘Race’. As a wayward youngster who couldn’e be taken seriously, his turn into a master planner came across as pretty surprising in ‘Race’. Though he didn’t mouth ferocious dialogues or made his mannerisms menacing in ‘Race’, it was the humor in his performance that stood out most. In a film where just about everyone was playing a gray character, his sweet dialogues dipped in poison never failed to bring on a smile.

(realbollywood)

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.