.

Shahrukh plays Riz, scraps Lux Cozi

2010-02-27T07:45:00.000-08:00

India Blooms News Service
Kolkata, Feb 22 (IBNS) Shahrukh Khan did a real life Rizwan Khan, the good soul he played in his new film My Name is Khan, as the actor suspended the sponsorship of his team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by the Lux Cozi innerwear, owned by a businessman accused of instigating the suicide of Muslim youth Rizwanur Rahman.

Lux Cozi is owned by Ashok Todi, the father of Priyanka Todi whose marriage with Muslim youth Rizwanur Rahman against the wishes of family led to the death of the latter under mysterious circumstances.

Rizwanur, a computer graphics designer, was found dead by a railway track in Sep 2007, almost a year after his marriage with Priyanka.

The incident caused a public outcry in Kolkata and a CBI inquiry was instituted.

Rizwanur’s mother had written to SRK to dissociate himself with the company owned by a family responsible for her son’s death.

Lux Cozi would not be allowed to take part in any kind of advertising during the IPL matches of KKR, an official said here.

SRK would keep the contract with Lux Cozi on hold till the Todis were proved innocent by the legal system, sources said.

The company had signed Shahrukh Khan as their brand ambassador for the coming season and was associated with KKR’s apparel merchandising.

MNIK earns 150 crores in 10-days

2010-02-23T04:39:00.000-08:00

According to press release from the producers

of 'MNIK', Karan Johar directed and SRK starrer film ‘My Name Is Khan’ has managed to earn 150 crores in just 10-days after its release in India and abroad.

This happened despite the fact that MNIK’s collections dropped below 40 percent over the weekend, especially in single-screen theatres. The films collections were effected due to Shiv Sena’s protests also.

“MNIK has exceeded trade expectations and is doing a brisk business worldwide,” said Taran Adarsh, a film trade analyst.

The SRK movie so far has successfully managed to generate 60 percent of revenue in India while international market contributed 40 percent.

The distributor of MNIK has managed to earn around 35 crores till now. Riding high on film’s overseas success, the distributors are planning to release it in other international centers like Bahrain, Omar, Qatar, Kuwait and Egypt.

MNIK’s success making SRK arrogant?
Reportedly, ever since the phenomenal success of SRK’s MNIK his mobile is choked with over 1,500 messages from fans and friends alike.

But the superstar is having trouble replying to all the messages by his well-wishers. Some people even started suggesting that his successful handling of Shiv Sena and film’s success has gone to his head.

However, SRK has clarified in a statement that his cellphone has been troubling him for some time now and he will take it to repair as soon as he will get time.

Devoted father SRK
Presently SRK is basking in the outstanding success of his latest film

‘My Name Is Khan’ on national and international front but that hardly translates into SRK celebrating the success of film with parties.

Rather, the iconic actor is busy devoting all his attention to his kids Aryan and Suhana’s studies, as their exams are coming.

“No I am not partying with Karan. Kids have exams thus have to study with kids,” said SRK.

SRK ,a king overseas

2010-02-21T09:43:00.000-08:00

That he is a bigger draw than Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise with the diaspora in the UK and the USA, is an earlier-known fact. This time Shah Rukh Khan has gone a step ahead. His latest film, Karan Johar’s My Name Is Khan, has become a global phenomenon.

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh says, “It has taken the biggest opening ever for a Bollywood film in the UK, and also in USA. This reiterates the fact that Shah Rukh is King in the overseas market.’’ The film has also taken several other foreign markets by storm. It has broken the record for the biggest initial for a Bollywood movie in the UAE. And is the first Hindi film to release in Egypt across eight theatres. Then, in the first week of March, the film will also release in nine theatres across Jordan, Syria and Lebanon.

High on the praise he has received from the Indian and foreign media, an ecstatic Karan says, “MNIK is the first global film that has actually come from Bollywood. It has penetrated far deeper than the parameters of the diaspora markets and has found patronage in countries like Poland, German and Russia where no Bollywood films have found such a huge favour. We have already added 25 odd prints across the Middle East — Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar, heartened by the phenomenal first week collections in UAE.’’

Currently Fox Star Studios, Red Chillies and Dharma Productions are smiling their way to the bank because in the Middle East countries, the print counts that stood at 61 will go up to 71 by the first week of March. This is almost double the print tally for most Hindi films. In Singapore alone, the film has done phenomenal business at the ticket windows which is a record for Hindi film. And the great word of mouth continues to keep it on top, says the local distributor. Australia and New Zealand have ended their first week collections with record ticket sales. In Hong Kong the film is running to packed houses.

What has warmed the cockles of Karan’s heart, though, is his recent trip to the prestigious Berlin Film Festival where SRK, Kajol and he walked down the red carpet. Reports say there were 3,000 ecstatic fans braving the minus 10 degrees temperature to participate in their moment of glory. Sources say that when Shah Rukh got the 1,800 lucky viewers who finally made it into the auditorium to dance to the Sajda number, he won these Germans over for life.

But Khan has a long journey ahead. Karan and Shah Rukh still have a couple of aces up their sleeve. “We will be releasing the film in many other countries across Europe and America right till the month of June,’’ says Karan. “The actual assessment can therefore be made only after July, when the real numbers of the film start showing.’’ Karan is right. The film is being dubbed in German and Polish also so that the non-Hindi speaking SRK fans also get to enjoy MNIK.

I still haven't sold my soul: SRK

2010-02-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan smilingly admits that punctuality is not one of his virtues, having made us wait five hours for the first interview. But then, in conversations spread over two days, a chilled out Khan tells Dhiman Chattopadhyay and Anusha Subramanian about plans for his growing business empire, on why he is passionate about everything he does and the lessons he has learnt in his journey towards becoming India's most successful "actorpreneur" till date. Edited excerpts from a candid interview.

By: Dhiman Chattopadhyay and Anusha Subramanian (Business Today)

Please define Shah Rukh Khan the businessman. Is business a means for you to invest the money you earn, or are you passionate about actually building businesses?

(Laughs) I am not a businessman, honestly. I am Zero on 10. I am not as intelligent as people think I am. If I were a businessman, I would be happy with how KKR (Kolkata Knight Riders, the IPL team owned by SRK) has fared till now. They were the first team to become profitable and they continue to make profit. But am I happy? No, I am not, I'd rather win the tournament, even if it means making a financial loss.

So what made you start up Red Chillies Entertainment- was it a business vision you had or an avenue to invest your earnings from films?

I never really thought of being an entrepreneur when I started Red Chillies (in 2002). Yes, there was this feeling about wanting to contribute something to the entertainment industry, but then or now, I do not see myself as a businessman in the true sense of the term like you say Mukesh Ambani is a businessman. And most definitely, my enterprises are not just a means to invest my hard-earned money. These businesses are my passion. You will notice that they are all related to the entertainment industry. If you ask me in one sentence to say what my aim is, then it is to help promote all these very talented people working with me, so that one day each of them can become producers, film makers, do their own VFX work; and that all the divisions give me a busy time once my acting career is over.

The Rs 1500 crore hero

What is your core business philosophy?

When things go right, everything goes right. I believe in striking when the iron's hot. My basic philosophy is very retail-like: "Subah ko dukan kholo, raat ko shutter down karo" (open the shop in the morning, close it at night). I have seen people like Mukeshbhai (Ambani) and Lakshmisaab (Mittal). I have sat at their meetings and tried to understand what they say and do. They are awesome. I am nowhere close to them. For me, "bijli paani ka kharcha nikal jaaye" (if I am able to pay electricity and other bills and salaries I am happy)-that is how you start business.

So, you do not start a business to make money?

No, that is not the main reason. I didn't buy an IPL team to make crores of rupees. For two years now, we have made a profit, but not because of the cricket! My theory is simple: If I am going to be earning from a business that is not working because of the business, then it is redundant. This is where I feel I have a certain amount of honesty left in my business. I still haven't sold my soul. If my team is not going to play good cricket this year then woe be upon the fact that they make money this year. It amounts to zilch. I can make money by dancing at weddings and I do. Why do I have to stress about the controversies, feel sad when the team loses?

The sports industry seems to take up a lot of space in your mind. Why?

Because I want sports to be a big thing in this country. I feel bad when I hear we are lagging behind in (preparations for the) Commonwealth Games. Look at our stadiums! I wanted to do a promo shoot for Chak De! I went to Pune because I was told that the Balewadi Stadium was the best. And we made it look better because of the ad. How cheap is it that a guy who comes to shoot for a night does up the stadium better than it should be done by the sports people! I want my son to come and say, "Dad, I want to play hockey." I want that option to be there.

I feel sad when I see sports suffering. Athletes come from small nations and win every race here. Their facilities are far better than in India! I am a genuinely good hockey player. I have played in the Ambedkar Stadium (in Delhi), in Bombay also.... But when we went for Chak De! in Australia it was completely different. I couldn't play on the astroturf field. I thought to myself, I haven't seen this in my country. Look at football. Every developing nation is fantastic in soccer because it is the cheapest game to play- Surinam, Nigeria.... I want to inculcate a sporting consciousness. I am a movie star. I endorse so many things. Why can't I endorse sports in my own way? I had wanted to make a stadium. I spoke to Nike, but it didn't work out. Now, this is my way of giving back.

How involved are you with your various businesses? Day-to-day running, key decisions, finances?

Finances? Zilch. But yes, in creative decisions I am totally involved. I let my boys and girls take the business decisions. There are people to manage the finances, do the deals, take decisions on the spot. My job is to provide creative inputs, come up with concepts and ideas to take a division forward in the general direction I visualise what could be in the medium to long term. You want to know how uninvolved I am in day-to-day activities? I haven't been to one of my offices for almost two years now! But yes, as I grow older, I am focussing more on how to centralise things. So, the new office in Khar that will be complete by end of 2010 will bring all of Red Chillies' divisions under one roof. My idea then is to go to office only on Saturdays and Sundays, so that the boys have to work twice as hard (laughs) and be present on those days as well. Jokes apart, I am proud of the people I have hired. They don't just work hard but each of them thinks of the business as their own. They think of ways to improve matters, not just like employees working to a mechanical plan.

What are the key goals you have set for yourself and your businesses over the next three to five years?

The past four years have been spent starting new businesses. The baby steps are over. The next couple of years will be crucial. I have set two basic agendas: First, I need to consolidate my existing businesses before getting adventurous again. Second, personally, I need to get more professional as an entrepreneur... learn to sound like one at least (laughs) and be a bit more handsoff- in a sense worry less if things are going okay or not-so that I can spend more energy building the creative side. After all, whatever we do, will be in the creative field.

Hollywood studios such as Walt Disney have evinced interest in picking up stakes in Red Chillies. How open are you to the idea of such partnership and stake sales?

I like my things to be mine-well, at least till I am able to prove that I have done most of what I set out to achieve. I like to invest in my own stuff! (Laughs). I also look at it from the other person's perspective and I can never look into your eyes if I have lost your money. When I am sure I will not lose any money in business X, Y or Z, I may want a partner. Not now.

As an actor and entertainer, what is your view on involving your family in your career?

Of course, I am an actor and an entertainer, first and last. But I am strangely formal with my family. And I never bring my family on the sets because I can never act in front of them. I say this with due respect to many of my women co-stars who bring their moms to the sets-I know they need the security or the feeling that they have people around. I have never really told my children how I do what I do. Being a movie star is a strange part of my life that my family does not know about.

I think the Discovery Travel and Living documentary (Living with a Superstar - Shah Rukh Khan) is the first attempt to bridge that gap. I saw some of the episodes after they were edited and I am really glad about what I've said about my wife and my family and my sister-things I will never be able to say to them directly. I am strangely formal with my family. I have still not opened my wife's cupboard. I do not open her handbag. I knock on my kids' door. My wife says "Are you mad?"-she is a Punjabi-"Why are you knocking. Just enter." But I can't get into personal spaces.

What is the next business opportunity that you see?

I am an entertainer. So, it has to be in that genre. I understand only that. Internet is one of the possible options. But not immediately.

What SRK's men have to say about the man

"SRK doesnt make you feel that you are working for him but with him. So whilst he is certainly the boss he does not behave like one." - Samar khan, Head, Red Chillies Idiot Box

"He has a keen sense of business, and knows instinctively what will work and what may not. But seldom has he tried to veto us if most of us have backed a project he is not sure about." - Keitan Yadav, COO, Red Chillies VFX

"We are blessed that we are part of SRK's company... but the flip side is that there is pressure because of the brand name we carry with us." - Sanjeev 'Bobby' Chawla, Head, Films, Red Chillies Entertainment

Lessons Learnt (And one I haven't!)

IN TOUGH TIMES, do not try to cut costs. Try instead to increase your income. This is something my mother would always tell me - my first lesson in enterprise.

THINK BIG. If you want to jump eight metres, aim for 16. You may not be able to jump 16, but to aim higher than the others is important. This is something Mukeshbhai (Ambani) taught me.

ALL BUSINESSES and friendships remain strong till they are profitable for both parties.

DRESS CASUALLY at work-not shabbily but casually. People need to be comfortable, feel cool, to be able to give their best.

I NEED TO LEARN this-Close deals fast! Haggling over small things is a waste of time.

Lunch with the FT: Shah Rukh Khan

2010-02-19T10:20:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan

is the "Baadshah" or "king" of Bollywood. The 44-year-old star has ruled India's film industry for nearly two decades, and Khan's image is everywhere in India. He is on billboards and on television, advertising products from Pepsi Cola to skin-whitening cream.

He also owns an Indian Premier League cricket team, the Kolkata Knight Riders. Shrines are dedicated to him. Fans send him letters written in blood. His ancestral home in Peshawar, now in Pakistan, is a tourist attraction. And after Khan was questioned by US immigration last August because of his Muslim name, some fans burned the American flag.

I wait to meet Khan in the coffee shop at the Courthouse Hotel, off Regent Street in central London. A former magistrates' court, its grey façade and quiet lobby feel too restrained for a Bollywood superstar.

I had been warned earlier in the day that the star was feeling unwell and that lunch would be delayed. Eventually, after a three-hour wait, I am ushered up to the star's suite on an upper floor, where Khan, looking tired, greets me warmly.

He is wearing a slim-fitting black suit, a sky-blue shirt with open-necked white collar and shiny black shoes. He plays with his glasses as we talk.

We go into the sitting room of Khan's suite, a wood-floored, wood-panelled room with armchairs grouped around a coffee table and windows overlooking the street below. The hotel has set up a small buffet table, and a waiter puts rice and chicken curry on a plate for Khan, who normally spurns carbs to maintain his six-pack. He has made an exception for this lunch.

I ask the waiter for chicken and rice with extra lentils and salad on the side. We eat with our plates in our laps, until Khan breaks off to light a cigarette.

The star is in London to promote his new film My Name is Khan (which has gone on to break US and UK box-office records for a Bollywood film, taking nearly £1m in the UK in its first weekend on release).

In the film, Khan plays an autistic Muslim man living in the US during the volatile period after 9/11. I remark on the fact that it might seem odd for him to have started naming his films after himself. He leans forward, flicking ash into an ashtray, and fixes me with his trademark charismatic smile. "As it is, people think I'm very arrogant, which I'm not. I was telling Karan [Johar – the film's director and a great friend of Khan] when we were naming it that people will say now we're suddenly naming films after me."

I assume they chose the name Khan because it is recognisably Muslim. But he sidesteps further probing, saying only that the name worked for the character. "He [the film's protagonist] has an issue that most people, even his wife, can't pronounce his name because Khan should be said from the epiglottis," he says, demonstrating the sound from the back of his throat.

While the movie, an emotionally charged love story, is classic Khan, the subject matter is unusually sensitive. Khan, a Muslim married to a Hindu in predominantly Hindu India, has rarely touched on issues of religious and ethnic tensions in his films. Is this film a sign of a trend in Bollywood towards tackling weightier themes?

"I've never thought about film being society changing ... I'm not being flippant but I do believe the prime objective of any cinema that I do and what I perform is to entertain as many people as possible," he pauses, leaning over to stub out his cigarette. "But maybe when you reach a level of stardom or universal appeal that perhaps I have ... you get a little more ambitious and say maybe I can just throw in a bit more of a point of view and garb it in entertainment."

Over the years Khan has portrayed a wide range of characters, from a slick mafia boss to a drunk lover and a reincarnated actor. He took over from fellow Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan as host of India's version of the hugely successful quiz show Who Wants to be a Millionaire? But he remains best known for his roles in "masala" films – cheerful song-and-dance confections, filled with romance. "See, I like masala. I enjoy masala. I think it's very important if you want to reach out to everybody. The country has a lot of real problems and you need someone to take you away for a few hours."

I remark on how Khan's own life has been anything but a "masala". Born in 1965, Khan and his older sister grew up in a middle-class family in New Delhi, where he attended St Columba's, a school run by the Christian Brothers. His father, Meer Taj Mohammad, a former freedom fighter against British rule, was born in 1928 in Peshawar, then in British-ruled India, and ran a struggling transport business. In 1980, when Khan was just 14, Meer died from cancer. Khan's mother brought the children up on her income as a magistrate and from running a restaurant and trading business. She died in 1991.

After university – a degree in economics at Hans Raj College and an unfinished Masters in mass communications – Khan began winning parts in television serials in the late 1980s. I ask him whether he considers himself a serious actor. "I'm a fantastic actor, Joe," he responds jokingly, putting down his cleared plate on a table before addressing the question more seriously.

"There's no point in me trying to explain the seriousness behind my acting," he says. "I think artists should not say: 'I'm very serious about my work'. My job should be that when you see my work, you should feel that this could be you. That is why you become a star – because 95 per cent of the boys and girls who see me think: 'I can do this, he's not extraordinarily good-looking.' Michael Caine said, very beautifully, that: 'When I perform in a film, I'm not trying to show you how well I act or what I do. I'm trying to show you a mirror, that this is what you guys do.'"

Indian film may be popular among the diaspora, but what does Bollywood need to do to appeal to other western audiences? It might help, I suggest, if Bollywood looked beyond the musical in a bid to make it in the western mainsteam cinema.

In fact, Khan has coined a term for this removal of song and dance – "uncabaret-ifying" Indian film. It's a process that is underway, but Khan stresses that music will remain essential in mainstream Bollywood. "If I'm going to see a Jackie Chan

film, I have to see kung fu ... Hindi cinema's like that – if it doesn't have music it's a little bit disappointing."

He lights another cigarette and one of the public relations people who pop in and out of the room pours him a coffee as I ask him how a superstar manages his home life. He and Gauri have been married since 1991 and have two children, 13-year-old son Aryan and 10-year-old daughter Suhana. He says he has invented an elaborate mental construct to manage stardom. He believes his appeal as a superstar stems from his persona as an "ordinary guy". But if fame begins to swell the ego of the regular guy, the appeal will vanish. So he decided to think of himself, Shah Rukh Khan, the husband and father, as the employee of Shah Rukh Khan, the multi-million dollar superstar brand.

"I think my connectivity to my audience is my being a middle-class guy. My being very simple and straightforward, not being enigmatic, not getting sold on the idea of stardom, is very important to this. But the temptation is there, how do I avoid it? So I thought: 'You know what? I should think of myself as a servant to this master. I should be an employee and an employee who is doing a bloody good job.'" And what would a good job be? "Keep myself simple and straightforward and work like I did when I started 20 years ago, acting in every film as if it's my first and maybe my last one."

He continues: "When I'm on stage, I feel like I'm so powerful, nothing can go wrong, I can do anything. One lakh [100,000] people, one lakh cameras follow me everywhere I go. It can make me feel infallible. But that's not true. I just busted my shoulder, I've broken my knee [performing stunts for films], I've just failed to explain to my son the last mathematics problem that he had. How am I infallible? So, I'm really a nobody but yes, I'm working for a very important man."

The family live in a large bungalow called Mannat (meaning "wish") in the wealthy Bandra neighbourhood, near Mumbai's northern waterfront. Khan tells me that at the weekend he refuses to answer the phone. His secretary, who hovers around the house, tries to interrupt him for business-related decisions when he's watching television with the children. "I have made some of the biggest business decisions, good or bad, while watching Hannah Montana," he says.

At this point, My Name is Khan's director, Karan Johar, bursts into the hotel room. Khan introduces us before they begin debating the wisdom of an imminent plan by Khan to launch an underwear range. Johar thinks it unwise at the moment, as Khan had recently caused controversy in Mumbai by suggesting that more Pakistani cricketers should have been included in this year's season of the glitzy, multi-billion dollar Indian Premier League.

His off-the-cuff remarks ignited violent passions among Hindu nationalists, who threatened to destroy cinemas if Khan screened his new film (the film premiere in Mumbai did go ahead, albeit with a heavy police guard). It was a row that united all three of India's national obsessions – cricket, Bollywood and politics.

Johar urges Khan to scrap the press conference to launch the underwear line – or at the very least not to allow any questions mentioning the Pakistan issue. But Khan, sweeping his hand through his dense hair, looks completely unfazed. He says the launch will go ahead and he will address the cricket row there too, if necessary. "What do you think journalists are going to ask me about? My underwear?" he remarks wryly.

Johar leaves the room and we return to the subject of Mumbai. The city is a cosmopolitan mix of all Indian ethnic groups, but local politicians have become increasingly hostile to outsiders – including those, like Khan, from other parts of India. Khan refuses to let these prejudices pigeonhole him. "I'm an actor, I'm an Indian. My father fought for the freedom of the country. And I truly believe when I say something about a nation or people that you cannot categorise people."

Warming to the theme, he mentions recent attacks on Indian students in my home city, Melbourne. "Someone has told me very vehemently that there've been racial attacks against Indians in Australia. So should I say you're racist? The world is full of good and bad people, not good Australians or bad Australians, or good Christians and bad Muslims."

We wrap up the lunch. The PR has been hoping to wind up the interview for some time, but Khan has refused, telling the PR that I can have as much time as I want because I have been chasing this interview for a year, and have flown in from Mumbai.

The underwear endorsement has reminded me to ask a final question. With his ubiquitous advertising presence in India – it is hard to imagine a Hollywood actor achieving anything like this – does he fear over-exposure? Apparently not.

"I have a very clear-cut idea," Khan says. "My films are not for sale. Films will only be done if I want to do them. For everything else, there's a price to it." Because Bollywood stars

do not make nearly as much money from films as Hollywood actors do, it is the advertising and endorsements that allow Khan to choose which films he makes.

I stand up to say goodbye, and I wonder which man I have had lunch with today – the servant of the superstar or his master? As I leave the warm Bollywood bubble, and the cold of the London winter hits me outside, I think I may have met them both.

MY NAME IS KHAN SMASHES ALL RECORDS WORLDWIDE

2010-02-19T03:16:00.001-08:00

MY NAME IS KHAN SMASHES RECORDS WORLDWIDE
Shah Rukh, Karan Johar& Fox come together to rewrite Box Office history asMNIKsmashes all previous international box office records to record the highest-ever single day collections for a Hindi film worldwide.
Just when the industry believed that 3 Idiots had set records which would be stay for a long time, box office Badshah Shah Rukh Khan’s MNIK looks set to break it just six weeks later!
Despite having a limited release in Maharashtra, Gujarat and parts of Madhya Pradesh on Friday, MNIK’s worldwide box office collections are estimated at Rs. 25 crores for Friday! This is the highest ever collections for a non-holiday Friday in Bollywood history. Trade analysts estimate that it could have easily earned an additional 5-6crores if it had been released normally across India. With the film playing everywhere across the country from Saturday onwards and given the strong buzz, this number is only expected to grow.
WORLDWIDE RECORDS
On the first day outside India, almost every record for Bollywood films was broken globally. Internationally, it is the biggest International opening day by almost 30% of its closest competitor, 3 Idiots.
UK BOX OFFICE RECORDS
• In the UK, MNIK previewed on Thursday with an incredible £123k from 89 sites, 4th in the market place behind Avatar, The Wolfman Previews and Invictus.
• In this market, MNIK has broken the record for the biggest GBO preview figure for any Bollywood release. The biggest single day preview figure in the UK was previously KANK with £98k.
• The biggest total previews figure was 3 IDIOTS which had 2 days of previews (Wed/Thu) during the Xmas holiday period with £121k. MNIK single day previews are bigger than both days of 3 Idiots put together!
• It is expected to be the biggest opening Bollywood film ever in this market by the weekend.
ANZ RECORDS
• In Australia, Thursday previews of “MNIK” grossed a very good A$39K (US$34K). The movie is ranked #11 in the market. This is 107% of 3 Idiots Thursday BO.
• In New Zealand, opening day took LC$ 13,627 (US$ 9,727). Bollywood films traditionally open on a Friday. The exception is 3 Idiots,against which MNIK has over-performed by 204%.
MIDDLE EAST RECORDS
• The film is already 50% higher than any other previous film in Bollywood history with an opening day estimated at USD 300k.
• There’s a huge demand for additional prints in the existing chains across the Middle East and the print count is expected to increase to around 60 by next week.
• Given the strong buzz, the film also will be released in Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Oman and Lebanon in the coming week.
“We are delighted with the performance and audience reactions across demographics,” says Vijay Singh, “More so, because this is only phase one of the film release.In addition to the release across 45 countries, MNIK will be rolled out in a phased manneracross 25 non-traditional markets from April onwards.”

‘MY NAME IS KHAN’PIRATED MATERIA SEIZED

2010-02-18T19:52:00.000-08:00

Mumbai Police along with AA Khan &
Associates managed to stop a huge piracy
racket. They raided and seized over 3,000
pirated DVDs and CDs worth around Rs 4
lakh and more. The raid was conducted at
Behram Baug, in a godown near Bandra
Court in Mumbai.
Around 1,000 blank DVDs, 21 DVD writers, 1
colour Xerox machine and 1,000 CD covers
were captured at the location. The pirated
CDs and DVDs included the much awaited
Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol starrer, My Name
is Khan. The movie released on February
12, 2010.
Along with My Name Is Khan, other movies
like Striker, The Wolfman and Law Abiding
Citizen was also found. Apparently, 3,000
DVDs have already been sold.
“Piracy is a serious offense and one which
is rampant within major parts of the city. It
has been noticed that major chunk of this
happens before or during a big release.
Considering the big release this time was
My Name is Khan, any pirates attempting to
copy or distribute this movie specially are
on our radar for this week and the coming
weeks that the movie would be running.
Piracy of the recently released Striker is
also on our list. Pirates should understand
that we have zero tolerance for their
actions and that they will be raided and
prosecuted for the crime they commit,’’
says AA Khan, former IPS officer and Ex.
ATS Chief.
In the last two months, AA Khan &
Associates have raided about 25 locations
in Mumbai and seized goods worth lakhs of
rupees and helping the movie industry in
curbing the menace of piracy to an extent.

Discovery to air ‘Revealed: Shah Rukh Khan ‘

2010-02-18T05:32:00.000-08:00

Even as Travel and Living is all set to start a series on Living with A Superstar later this month, its sister channel Discovery will telecast Revealed: Shah Rukh Khan later this week on the formula for the actor’s unparalleled success – both at home and abroad.

The single-episode programme will have social anthropologists, filmmakers, scholars, critics and lifestyle commentators detail the virtues which make him the consumer friendly face for brands, an innovative entrepreneur, a mega filmstar, an NRI icon and an ideal family man. The experts will explain indepth the impact he has had on both Bollywood and India’s image abroad.

Discovery Channel will air the programme on 19 February at 8 pm and repeat it at 10 pm. The programme will repeat on 20 February at 9 pm and 11 pm and 21 February at 8 pm.

Coming from India’s bourgeoning middle class, Shah Rukh Khan’s meteoric success in Bollywood makes him the poster-boy of multiple generations.

Discovery Channel will bring an engaging one-hour programme detailing how his insatiable ambition combined with the overall socio-political changes during the last two decades and the country’s globalisation path transformed an industry-outsider to an icon of contemporary India.

Said Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific senior vice president and general manager – India Rahul Johri, “Discovery Channel’s unique strength is in uncovering the unexplained phenomenon, be it life-changing events, personalities with global influence or unique wonders of our nature. This time it will examine the beginning, growth and impact of one of the biggest success stories of contemporary India –Shah Rukh Khan.”

Commenting on the programme, Shah Rukh Khan said, “I have enjoyed watching the Discovery Channel for many years. I am quite excited that viewers will now watch a programme on my life on this exceptional channel.”

A range of experts including social anthropologist Shiv Vishwanathan, film scholar MK Raghvendra, film critic Anupama Chopra, advertising and brand expert Prasoon Joshi and media expert Priya Tanna will uncover the secret forShah Rukh Khan’s enviable success.

Discovery Channel commissioned Blue Mango Films and Red Chillies Idiot Box to produce the programme.

'MNIK' to be dubbed in German, Turkish for wider reach

2010-02-17T22:48:00.000-08:00

Mumbai, Feb 17 (IANS) Shah Rukh Khan's latest movie 'My Name Is Khan', which made $18 million in its opening weekend worldwide, will be dubbed in German and Turkish and will be subtitled in Polish to help a wider international audience.

The decision to dub the film in various languages came instantly for the company so that it reaches out to as many people as possible.

'Every country has a different requirement. In Poland, it will be released with Polish subtitles. In Germany, we want the film to go down much deeper to the German audience and that particular market prefers films to be dubbed. So that's why we are dubbing it in German and Turkish,' Vijay Singh, CEO of Fox STAR Studios India, told IANS.

'My Name Is Khan', directed by Karan Johar, also features actress Kajol. Set in post-9/11 period in US, the movie has been garnering positive reviews from Indian and international audience and critics alike.

'Our release plan for 'My Name Is Khan' is very different from any Bollywood film. Bollywood films in India have a life of two weeks, so we are releasing the film over a six-month period. From March to June, we are going to be releasing the film in 25 non-traditional markets,' said Singh.

'The film will release in Poland next month in 50 screens whereas the largest Bollywood release that has happened so far has released in five screens. And then, we will be releasing at Germany where we will be doing a German dub and a Turkish dub.'

Germany has a substantial chunk of expatriate Turkish population.

'There also, we are releasing the film in 40 screens whereas five screens are maximum for any Bollywood release so far. Basically, the rollout for 'My Name Is Khan' is very different from any other typical Bollywood film,' he added.

I'm sorry, Karan, SRK: Priyadarshan

2010-02-17T04:34:00.001-08:00

During a television appearance, filmmaker Priyadarshan called the conflict between the Shiv Sena and Shah Rukh Khan a publicity stunt, but he now says he has been quoted out of context and would like to apologise to the actor as well as director Karan Johar.

Following his comment, Priyadarshan has apparently been put on the 'block' list of many important cellphones in Mumbai.

But he says: "I was quoted out of context. I'd never speak like that about Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar. They've both been very nice to me. If I've hurt either of them I apologize to them publicly, and would like to add that in any conflict between filmmakers and politicians, I'd naturally and inevitably support my own fraternity."

The Shiv Sena has been targeting Shah Rukh and Karan's film "My Name Is Khan" after the actor spoke against the exclusion of Pakistani cricketers from the Indian Premier League.

Priyadarshan wanted to call his new film with Ajay Devgn, Bipasha Basu and Akshay Khanna "Ishaq". But he found out that a film titled "Ishqiya" is already out.

"Vishal Bhardwaj beat me to it!" laughs Priyadarshan. "He took the title 'Ishqiya'. And once that was out, there was no point in calling my film 'Ishaq'. So we've named it 'Garam Hawa' after M.S. Sathyu's classic."

Priyadarshan hopes to live up to the title of Sathyu's film. "I'm not such a bad filmmaker, you know. If I'm the director of 'De Dana Dan', I also made 'Kancheevaram'."

My Name is Khan sets UK box office record

2010-02-16T21:20:00.000-08:00

My Name is Khan has become Bollywood's most successful box office opener in the UK.

The movie was released in a storm of controversy after a row between its star - Shah Rukh Khan - and Shiv Sena, a hardline Hindu party in India.

But it has already grossed more than £936,000 since hitting screens and entered the UK Box Office charts at number six.

The film also took $2.3m (£1.2m) in the US over the four-day holiday weekend.

Khan had angered Shiv Sena by saying Pakistani players should be included in the Indian Premier League Twenty20 cricket competition, which starts next month.

UK TOP 10

1. Valentine's Day

2. Avatar

3. The Wolfman

4. The Princess And The Frog

5. Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief

6. My Name Is Khan

7. Invictus

8. A Single Man

9. Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel

10. Astro Boy

Source: Screen International

Shiv Sena, an organisation which regards itself as a defender of what it sees as traditional Hindu moral values, tried to disrupt the film's release and consequently it opened amid tight security in Mumbai.

Khan's wife, Gauri, who co-produced the movie, said: "People have liked the movie which we're really happy to see and it's not because of the controversy."

My Name is Khan is a rare Indian film to get the backing of Hollywood distributors, 20th Century Fox.

In the film, Khan plays a Muslim with Asperger's syndrome whose life changes after the 11 September attacks in the US.

He stars opposite Kajol, who plays a single Hindu mother who falls in love with Khan.

The film was the fourth highest new entry in the UK behind Valentine's Day, The Wolfman and Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief.

Valentine's Day went straight in at number one as it grossed £3.7m and, although it averaged £8,640 across 432 sites, My Name is Khan averaged £10,291 across 91 sites.

The previous record for a Bollywood film in its opening period in the UK was held by Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna which grossed nearly £750,000, and also starred Shah Rukh.

MNIK 90.2 crores in 3 days

2010-02-15T07:51:00.000-08:00

My Name Is Khan has grossed Rs 902 million (Rs 90.2 crore) worldwide in its opening weekend

Even the fact that it was a non-holiday 3-day weekend vis a vis both the previous high grossing films, which had 4-day Christmas weekends, did not prove to be a deterrent for Shah Rukh Khan. The movie has smashed existing global opening records in every country in which it was released this weekend.

My Name is Khan has scorched screens worldwide and raked in Rs 902 million (Rs 90.2 crore) ($ 19 million) worldwide in three days making it the biggest ever three-day collection worldwide ever.

"The most exciting part is that the worldwide collections jumped every day from Friday to Saturday to Sunday. This shows that the audience is absolutely loving Rizvan and Mandira," says Vijay Singh, CEO Fox Star Studios.

Sunday GBO in markets like US, Australia, UK & Middle East set new records for the Biggest single day internationally for a Bollywood movie.

Just to give a sense of scale, the overall weekend collections of MNIK have been double of closest competitor 3 Idiots worldwide.

Sanford Panitch, president of FIP, was esctatic over the results, saying, "While initially driven by the power of this extraordinary cast and director, it is My Name Is Khan as a film that has captivated audiences everywhere we have opened. An incredible start to this powerful and moving film."

In India, despite the issues in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Indore and other centres on Friday & part of Saturday, the film has opened exceptionally well. In states where the film opened normally, including Delhi-UP, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerela, the collections have been the highest ever.

Source: http://businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=15455

MNIK receives positive reviews from US media

2010-02-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Sun, Feb 14 12:29 PM

Lalit K Jha

Washington, Feb 14 (PTI) Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'My Name Is Khan', which hit as many as 119 theaters in the US and Canada has received some great reviews from American mainstream media.

'At its best 'My Name Is Khan', set mainly in America, is an affecting fairy tale about the perils of goodness," said The New York Times in its review of the movie.

"'Khan' is one of a handful of Hindi films ('New York', 'Kurbaan') about Indians living in a paranoid, post-9/11 America, and there''s something fascinating about looking at this country through a Bollywood lens, even when the story is a kind of fairy tale," the daily said.

"Skillfully directed by Karan Johar and with an evocative score by Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy, 'Khan' jerks tears with ease, while teaching lessons about Islam and tolerance," The New York Times added.

One of the most noted film magazines in US, Variety, in its review, said, "This riotously overstuffed and enormously enjoyable drama races forward with incredible drive."

Terming MNIK as "a sweeping epic in the melodramatic Bollywood manner", The Los Angeles Times said the movie emerges as a potent, engaging and timely entertainment.

"'My Name Is Khan' is a potent, energetic heart-tugger and Khan and Kajol, major Bollywood stars, are highly appealing and equal to the demand of their emotion-charged roles," the daily said in its review of the movie.

U.K. update: 'M.N.I.K.' stands at £ 300,000

2010-02-13T05:54:00.000-08:00

MY NAME IS KHAN should set new records in the international territory. In U.K., the film collected an impressive £ 164,134 from 86 sites on Friday [5 sites unrecd.]. Adding the Thursday previews and Friday business, the total stands at £ 290,627 [approx. Rs. 2.12 cr.]. The Saturday and Sunday business are expected to be huge.

Now let's see where MY NAME IS KHAN stands when compared to other SRK starrers in U.K.

FILM	OPENING WEEKEND [£]	SCREENS	AVERAGE [£]
Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi	4,03,842	60	6,731
Om Shanti Om	5,18,845 [incl. Thursday previews]	52	9,978
Don	2,91,462	51	5,715
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna	7,49,243	60	12,487
Veer-Zaara	4,84,993	60	8,083
Main Hoon Na	3,22,290	41	7,861
Kal Ho Naa Ho	4,36,790	37	11,805
Chalte Chalte	2,89,883	37	7,835
Devdas	4,66,370	54	8,636
Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam	2,41,110	28	8,611
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham	4,73,355	41	11,545
Asoka	2,35,461	76	3,098
Mohabbatein	2,46,368	26	9,476

Saturday update: 'M.N.I.K.' collects approx. Rs. 8 cr. on opening day -By Taran Adarsh, February 13, 2010 - 16:33 IST

2010-02-13T03:40:00.001-08:00

According to our calculations, MY NAME IS KHAN took a huge start in the domestic market. The first day [Friday] closed at approx. Rs. 8 cr. nett, which excludes a big chunk of Mumbai-Maharashtra territory. Had the film opened smoothly in Mumbai-Maharashtra region, the business would've easily been Rs. 11 cr. +. For, the business from Mumbai city-suburbs and Pune plexes is generally huge and adds a big chunk to the booty.

As per early indications, the first day business is as follows:-
Delhi, U.P. and Punjab: Rs. 3 cr.
Rajasthan: Rs. 43 lacs
C.I.: Rs. 29 lacs
C.P. Berar: Rs. 37 lacs
Eastern Circuit [Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Orissa]: Rs. 1.10 cr.
South India [Nizam, Mysore, Andhra, TN, Kerala]: Rs. 1.30 cr.
Mumbai circuit [Gujarat, Saurashtra, Goa; limited release in Mumbai and Maharashtra]: Rs. 1.5 cr.

The exact figures from Fox are awaited.

Review: SRK delivers a breakthrough performance in ‘My Name Is Khan’

2010-02-12T05:09:00.000-08:00

Mumbai: Despite all the political hype and hoopla surrounding Shah Rukh Khan starrer ‘My Name Is Khan’, the movie comes out as a clear winner! Shah Rukh has delivered a very convincing and a power-packed performance, something that he was desperately seeking after BO duds like ‘Billu’ and ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.’


Related Stories After ‘MNIK’ gets thumbs up, SRK apologises for “disturbing sentiments” Despite threats, Mumbai multiplexes screening ‘My Name Is Khan’ Three Mumbai multiplexes releasing ‘MNIK’, protests in Guj Youths attack Delhi movie hall showing Shah Rukh`s `MNIK` Mumbai multiplex owners meet to finalise `MNIK` release

SRK not only proves his acting prowess in the flick, but also shows that he is much beyond the mushy romantic flicks that he is often associated with. Starring Shah Rukh, Kajol, Jimmy Shergill and Zarina Wahab, Karan Johar’s ‘My Name Is Khan’ is an emotionally charged film that grapples with the burning issues of religion and humanity.

‘MNIK’ is the story of Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh), who battles with Asperger’s syndrome. This milder form of autism damages Rizwan’s socializing skills and leaves him with eccentric behavioral patterns – he can’t stand yellow colour, loud sounds and hugs. Yet, despite all his eccentricities, Rizwan finds love and family with Mandira (Kajol).

Unfortunately, post 9/11, the Rizwan-Mandira relationship gets apart and Rizwan sets on a grand journey across America, to tell the American President that his name is Khan and he is not a terrorist.

Starting in a flashback mode, the scenes of Rizwan’s childhood are quite moving. The Rizwan- Mandira romance is a bit mushy. Nevertheless, helmed by KJo and supported by ace cinematographer Ravi K Chandran and editor Deepa Bhatia, ‘My Name Is Khan’ is a beautiful film that effortlessly coalesces personal and political believes of its central protagonist Rizwan.

The story moves on a brisk pace in the first half; yet, the second half slackens a bit both literally and figuratively. Yet, despite all this, Rizwan emerges as a clear winner who not only manages to shout down a hate-breeding Muslim doctor but also and saves the citizens of flood-hit small town of New Orleans.

Undeniably, Rizwan is the essence of ‘My Name Is Khan.’ In Rizwan, Shah Rukh gives a stellar, heartfelt and endearing performance. And yes, the SRK-Kajol chemistry still works wonders!

‘MNIK’ is a must watch film. A treat for Shah Rukh-Kajol fans!

Ratings: Four cheers for this one.

'MNIK' releases in 13 Mumbai halls to huge response

2010-02-12T05:02:00.000-08:00

Fri, Feb 12 03:55 PM

Mumbai, Feb 12 (IANS) Tremendous response marked the limited release of Shah Rukh Khan-starrer 'My Name Is Khan' in 13 cinema halls here Friday even as the Shiv Sena continued its protest against the film across Maharashtra.

Shiv Sainiks attempted to disrupt the screening of the film at all the 13 cinema halls here despite heavy security arrangements. The film was originally scheduled to be released in 63 movie halls in this metropolis.

Most of the cinema owners backed down after threats from Shiv Sena which is protesting Shah Rukh's comments seeking inclusion of Pakistani cricketers in this year's edition of the Indian Premier league (IPL).

Police baton charged Sena supporters at K-Star mall in Chembur and pushed back activists attempting to barge inside Fun Republic mall in Andheri West to disrupt the screening of the film Friday afternoon.

The movie opened to a full house in Fun Republic shortly after noon though its first scheduled show at 9.30 a.m. was cancelled.

In Dadar, former Lok Sabha speaker and ex-chief minister Manohar Joshi was prevented from disrupting the screening of the movie. Similar scenes were witnessed outside all 13 cinema halls where the film finally released Friday after days of uncertainty.

In a bid to boost public confidence and save the government's image, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, state Home Minister R.R. Patil and Minister of State for Home Ramesh Bagwe purchased tickets and watched the movie at INOX cinema in south Mumbai.

INOX cinema also got a house full response to the film.

Taking a cue, other Congress leaders like Textiles Minister Naseem Khan, Mumbai North MP Sanjay Nirupam, several legislators and Municipal corporaters from the Congress and the Republican Party of India watched the movie in different cinema halls here.

Actor Kabir bedi and his daughter Pooja Bedi, several TV stars and other Bollywood personalities also followed suit.

Chavan, Patil and Bahgwe appealed to the people to come out of their homes, watch the movie and not get cowed down by threats 'from a few unruly elements'.

In Nagpur, Sena supporters burnt posters and vandalised Panchsheel Cinema where 'My Name Is Khan' was being shown. Now the movie is scheduled to be screened there later in the day.

Shiv Sainiks also demonstrated outside cinema halls in Nashik, Ratnagiri, Sangli and Dhule.

No cinema hall in Pune and Aurangabad released the film.

Shiv Sena called for a shutdown in several parts of Mumbai Friday in protest against the release of the film.

Despite Sena threat MNIK opens to packed theatres across the country

2010-02-12T03:11:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'My Name Is Khan' had a packed opening on Friday across the country with Mumbai restricting the number of shows

Maharashtra cinema owners back off, not to release SRK's MNIK

2010-02-11T18:45:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: In an embarrassing show of no-confidence in the Congress-led state government, multiplex and theatre owners on Thursday decided not to

release the Shah Rukh Khan flick, My Name Is Khan, in Mumbai and other parts of the state on Friday.

Exhibitors will now take a wait-and-watch approach to the release of the film in Maharashtra. Late-night reports said multiplex owners would meet again on Friday morning to take a final call and it might be decided that each multiplex chain would release the film at only one multiplex and wait for the response. But no consensus emerged till late in the night as the fear factor weighed oppressively on every multiplex owner's mind.

Tinsel town insiders reacted with shock and dismay at the possible no-show of the movie in Bollywood capital and were calculating financial losses but civil society in Mumbai said the loss went much beyond the movie's profit-and-loss economics. The general feeling was that the multiplex owners' fears exposed an enormous lack of confidence in the government's ability to take on political blackmail and provide protection against vandalism.

Chief minister Ashok Chavan tried his best to get the theatre owners to screen the film on Friday, promising them ``full security''. ``They (the theatre owners) must release the film,'' he said. But his assurance found no takers either in Mumbai, the Sena's hometown, or elsewhere in the state.

The multiplex owners' apprehensions, besides being a major embarrassment for Chavan and the government, put a huge pressure on Khan to make it up to the Thackerays as a film's performance in Mumbai can make or mar its overall fortunes. A teleconference between the actor (in Berlin) and the producers came off in the evening, when Khan was formally told of Mumbai theatre owners' decision, but the mood in the Khan camp was downbeat even before that.

Khan stuck to his decision not to ``apologise'' to anyone but the `tweets' he sent out during the day were markedly conciliatory. ``(I) feel awful that Balasaheb and Uddhav have misconstrued my words. The reactions of the Sena workers seem to make me believe that. Don't want mayhem, anger and violence 'cos of our beautiful film which talks about repairing a bruised and divided world. I hope my tweets clear this cloud of confusion. I hope peace prevails and the city is at rest. Nobody wants Mumbaikars or their property hurt and destroyed, least of all me. This also is the last time I clarify or say anything on this topic. This is not a justification, it's just reiterating the facts,'' he said. But he seemed to have resigned himself to the no-show. ``Now what happens with the release, the film, is the film's fate,'' he tweeted.

Mumbai's multiplex owners, too, seemed to have resigned themselves to living with the Sena. ``I think the uncertainty over the release of one film and the risk that we would have taken by releasing this one film is not worth it. Several other films are showing in my multiplex and I don't want to lose that revenue as well,'' a multiplex owner in the central suburbs said. His was one of the cinemas targeted by the Sena on Tuesday.

Another multiplex owner from Navi Mumbai admitted that the government's assurances paled in comparison to the fear factor. ``A plex screen costs between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 11 lakh and one stone can damage it irretrievably. Why should we take the risk?'' he added.

There is another huge fact that plex owners had to bear in mind when they decided that life without MNIK probably made more sense in the current circumstances. Most of the multiplexes run out of leased property and owners say they cannot bear the consequences of any damage to that property for the sake of one film. ``We have to live with the Sena and we don't have the confidence that cops can give us blanket security cover 365 days a year,'' a western suburbs mall owner admitted. ``But we will wait till Friday morning to take a final call,'' he added.

Chief minister Chavan and home minister Patil, however, felt the plex owners were chickening out without reason. Chavan, even at 6.30 in the evening, refused to admit that multiplex owners had decided not to screen the movie. ``I have no such information and we have spared no effort in providing cinemas security. But whether or not they want to screen the film is finally the hall owners' decision. The state's job is to maintain law and order and lawlessness will be dealt with firmly,'' he said, regretting that cops - trained to tackle terrorism and the naxal threat - had to be diverted to take care of problems that did not have ``any solid issue''.

``I said the issue should be settled amicably but people misconstrued it as softness,'' he said.

Patil went a step further, accusing the theatre owners of going back on their word. ``It's unfortunate that theatre owners have backtracked. They had promised us they would release the movie if given adequate protection. But it appears they have gone back on their word despite our best efforts,'' he added.

Congress circles, however, felt the government had been backstabbed by Patil's leader, NCP supremo
Sharad Pawar. ``The decision to go and meet Bal Thackeray immediately after Rahul Gandhi's whirlwind tour of the city, which had the Sena squirming, gave Balasaheb that much-needed lifeline,'' a senior Congress functionary said.

The Sena did not take too much time to latch on to that lifeline. Leaders bragged on Friday that the decision to go after MNIK had - in one stroke - exposed the ``soft'' chief minister, brought the Congress down to earth after the Rahul Gandhi-provided high and ``showed Raj Thackeray his place''.

SRK AT IIPM

2010-02-11T08:34:00.000-08:00

Multiplexes cancel MNIK screening; integrity non-negotiable, says SRK

2010-02-11T07:55:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: As his film 'My Name Is Khan' readies for release on Friday amid unprecedented security in Mumbai theatres, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh
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Khan prays for peace and says his integrity is "non-negotiable."

Meanwhile, cinemas, including multiplexes and single halls, in 47 cities across Maharashtra have cancelled the screening of ‘My Name is Khan’ bowing to Shiv Sena’s threat.

Shah Rukh, who is currently in Berlin for the premiere of the film along with co-star Kajol and director Karan Johar, had earlier said that he owes everything to Mumbai, loves "my country India, my family and freedom" and hates "anyone or anything that threatens my country."

The 44-year-old is disturbed by talks that the issue is a mere publicity stunt.

"I want to enjoy my film everywhere. I want to enjoy it within myself and to sickos who think this is for publicity..2 words Shut up!" he said.

Shah Rukh wants to close the matter and says: "Anyone asks me about this issue anymore...they can read my Tweets. Now what happens with the release, the film, is the film's fate. If my partners lose, so be it; if I lose so be it... "

"My Name Is Khan" is set in post 9/11 period and in it Shah Rukh plays an autistic Muslim Rizwan Khan.

Keeping his fingers crossed, the 44-year-old star also says his stardom is transient and wants a "closure" in the tense row with the Shiv Sena which has threatened to disrupt the film's screening if he does not apologise for his remarks favouring inclusion of Pakistani cricket players in IPL.

"My stardom is transient. my integrity in non negotiable ...my being Indian unquestionable...hope peace prevails. Hope misunderstandings get cleared. Hope nobody is hurt. Hope all leaders & activists have largesse of heart. hope...," Khan, who is currently in Berlin for the premiere of his film, tweeted.

"Nobody wants Mumbaikars or their property hurt & destroyed. least of all me." 1,600 Shiv Sena activists have been arrested so far to ensure a peaceful release of the film.

Shah Rukh also said he is making his point clear for the last time and sought closure, praying for peace in the city, which he owes everything to.

"This also is the last time I clarify or say anything on this topic. This is not a justification, its just reiterating the facts," he said.

"I may not have the same ideologies as the Sena but on the question of me being a patriot, I don’t think there should be any confusion. Feel awful that Balasahib & Uddhav have misconstrued my words. The reaction of the Sena workers seems to make me believe that (sic)," he said.

Mumbai theatres under security blanket

2010-02-11T01:05:00.001-08:00

Heavy security arrangements have been made at city cinema theatres ahead of Friday’s release of Shah Rukh Khan starrer My Name Is Khan which is facing the Shiv Sena’s ire.

Over 1,600 Sena activists, including functionaries, have been arrested in the last two days to thwart protests by the Sena, who has been demanding that Mr. Khan apologise for his remarks favouring Pakistani players in IPL-3.

“Elaborate security measures have been adopted to ensure no untoward incident happens (before and after the release of the movie). Nobody would be spared for taking law into their hands,” said Maharashtra Home Minister R.R. Patil.

The theatre owners have been asked to install night vision cameras that would enable police to identify troublemakers in case of any untoward incident. They have also been advised to keep the first three rows vacant and deploy at least two security guards inside the hall so that incidents such as ripping off screens with sharp instruments by troublemakers can be averted.

Notices warning Sena party leaders not to create law and order problems have been issued by the police. Police Commissioner D. Sivanandan has issued guidelines to all the police stations regarding security arrangements.

Constables stationed at halls have been told to frisk ticket-holders and check their bags. However, it is not must for cine-goers to show identity cards.

Each single-screen cinema hall will be manned by a sub-inspector, three constables, two of them women, and five plainclothes policemen. In the wake of the Sena intensifying protests, leaves of the policemen have been cancelled to ensure their full presence.

To further strengthen the security, personnel from State Reserve Police Force and Home Guards will be deployed at the theatres across the metropolis.

Meanwhile, Mr. Khan, along with co-actor Kajol and the film’s director Karan Johar, left for Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to attend a special premiere of the movie.

On Tuesday, Mr. Johar, who is also co-producer of the film, met Mr. Sivanandhan to discuss security issues ahead of the movie’s release.

MNS takes on Sena for targetting SRK

2010-02-11T00:58:00.001-08:00

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray on Thursday lashed out at Shiv Sena activists for protesting against the release of Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan's upcoming film "My Name is Khan" saying that the protests have been organised to gain publicity.

Thackeray said, "Why didn't Sena target Pakistanis? Why are they targeting Shahrukh Khan?"

"Sena is targeting Shahrukh to gain publicity. We will not oppose the release of his film," added Thackeray.

Further targeting Amitabh Bachchan, Raj Thackeray said, "Why only Shahrukh was asked to apologise? Why was Amitabh Bachchan not asked to apologise?"

Thackeray further said, "We are not Shahrukh's enemies. He should have taken the Pakistani players in his IPL team if he desired."

The Shiv Sena is upset with Khan's statements that Pakistani cricketers should be allowed to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) inspite of the 26/11-terror attack and has asked all the theaters in the city to boycott the release of his film.

Maharashtra govt didn't let SRK, Thackeray meet: Shiv Sena

2010-02-11T00:53:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: As the stand-off between Shiv Sena and Maharashtra government continues ahead of tomorrow's release of Shah Rukh Khan-starrer 'My Name is Khan', the Sena on Thursday claimed the state government prevented a meeting between party chief Bal Thackeray and the actor.

"Khan had expressed willingness to meet Thackeray after his US trip to resolve the issue. However, the ruling Congress-NCP combine foiled the bid, saying the government was capable of tackling the Shiv Sainiks," Shiv Sena said in the party mouthpiece 'Saamna'.

"SRK has now declared in Abu Dhabi that he would be meeting Thackeray to ensure smooth release of his film in Maharashtra," the newspaper said.

Meanwhile, in an editorial titled 'My Name is Ashok Khan', Saamna flayed Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan, saying he was siding with Khan, "a Pakistan lover", to retain his chief ministerial chair.

"Produce a film 'My Name is Kasab' and hand over the nationalist youth opposing it, to Pakistan. Ashok Khan, we are sure you will do it," the editorial said.

Shahrukh Khan and Kajol's entry in the global premiere of my name is Khan in Abu Dhabi

2010-02-11T00:23:00.000-08:00

My Name is Khan clocks 80% booking across India

2010-02-11T00:14:00.000-08:00

My Name is Khan has recorded over 80 per cent booking for the opening weekend, despite a Shiv Sena threat to the Shah Rukh Khan-Kajol starrer forcing theatres to suspend ticket sales in Maharashtra and capital Mumbai today.
Multiplex owners say the bookings, which opened today, are better than 3 Idiots’. “The advance bookings are 20 per cent higher than the Aamir Khan starrer,” said sources in the industry. In metros like Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad, the bookings are between 60 and 80 per cent. In small towns, 60-70 per cent of its tickets are sold. The film will be released on Friday.

Maharashtra contributes 25 per cent to box office collections, in which Mumbai’s share is almost 15 per cent.

“The film will lose almost Rs 10 crore in the first three days from Mumbai and Maharashtra,” said Komal Nahata, trade analyst. Fox Star Studios has bought the rights of the Karan Johar production for Rs 100 crore. Experts say even if the film gets lukewarm response in Mumbai, Fox Star can claim insurance. Fox Star plans to release over 1,200 prints in India, of which 300 will be in Maharashtra (65 in Mumbai).

Meanwhile, police have cancelled leave of their Mumbai personnel to ensure protection to the 63-odd theatres scheduled to screen the SRK film. They have also detained over 1,200 Sena members as preventive measure. Constables have been asked not to let viewers carry bags, frisk every ticket holder and check their identity cards. Chief Minister Ashok Chavan said the Sena-Shah Rukh Khan controversy should be resolved by “mutual understanding”.

Agitations over My Name Is Khan could lead to Rs 45-cr loss

2010-02-10T20:28:00.001-08:00

The tussle between agitating Shiv Sena workers and the Mumbai police over the release of the Shahrukh Khan starrer My Name Is Khan is likely to cause financial losses to the tune of Rs 40-45 crore for producers, distributors and film exhibitors.

Made at a budget of around Rs 45 crore and sold to Fox Star Studios for Rs 85 crore, My Name Is Khan has been subjected to anger and wrath of Shiv Sena because of the comments made by Shah Rukh Khan in favour of selection of Pakistani cricket players for IPL-III.

On day 1 of the advanced bookings for the upcoming film, the Mumbai police arrested over 1,200 agitating Shiv Sena workers. Most of the 63 theatres in Mumbai stopped the advance booking on Wednesday and with hundreds of them across the state following suit; it could lead to a dismal opening for the most-awaited Bollywood film of this year.

The multiplex association and film analysts say as Maharashtra and Mumbai together contribute a third of the domestic box office collections for big Hindi films, they are staring at a huge financial loss in the coming weekend.

My Name Is Khan will be released on Friday with over 2,000 prints. Around 300 prints are being released for Maharshtra alone. "If the average footfall in cinema theatre drops to under 35% this weekend in Mumbai coupled with anticipated disruptions and fear among cine goers in Maharashtra, we are looking at a potential loss of Rs 40-45 crore to the film business," a top executive of a leading multiplex in Mumbai said.

"Losses on account of the damage to the publicity materials of the film and attacks to various theatres in the past few days have also been factored in," the executive said.

Most of the film exhibitor chains, including Cinemax, Big Cinema, PVR, Inox, etc have stopped advance bookings within hours on Wednesday after incidents of violence and losses to cinema properties reported in the suburbs of Mumbai.

According to film analysts, any big Hindi film tends to recover almost half its cost in the first three days of the release.

"Maharashtra and Mumbai together account of a third of the country's box office collections. My Name Is Khan, with its global release and hype could easily gross over Rs 100 crore within the first week. But with an atmosphere of fear prevailing in Mumbai and elsewhere, a bulk of collections will not come, causing loss to the production, distribution and exhibition business," said a Mumbai-based film distributor.

In order to counter the potential loss of business, My Name Is Khan will have a strong distribution network in overseas markets. Over 100 prints are earmarked for each of the United States, the United Kingdom and the markets in the Gulf region and southeast Asia. Smaller number of prints will go to other parts of the world including Europe and the African continent, a film analyst said.

Ashish Sinha

MNIK to create history

2010-02-10T07:58:00.001-08:00

The countdown has begun. There are just four days left for the release of Bollywood’s most-hyped flick, filmmaker Karan Johar’s My Name Is Khan,

Karan Johar

and the uproar is deafening.

The factions trying to put a spoke in the wheel of MNIK will be clearly outnumbered by a community called SRK junkies who are parched for a full-fledged Shah Rukh Khan flick. MNIK, coming as it is after SRK’s Om Shanti Om (2007) — if you don’t count Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008) and Billu (2009) — is being touted by trade experts as a blockbuster even before it opens.

Says Komal Nahata, “From what I know about this film, its script is bound to resonate with a global audience. Without giving away anything from the story, I can tell you that it is the first time that mainstream cinema has addressed the Hindu-Muslim issue in such a sensitive way. And yet, the film has entertainment at its core. It is a fabulous script... and I just get the feeling that the recent controversies that have surrounded it will help rather than hamper its box-office appeal.”

Vikas Mohan says, “How big a hit MNIK will be, can only be talked about after one has seen the film. But, with my eyes closed, I can say it will get a historic opening especially with a multiplex audience. The Karan-SRK-Kajol combination is lethal and it has so far worked.” Vikas also feels that the recent political controversy has raised the film’s prospects at the ticket windows.

Taran Adarsh says, “In my opinion MNIK will be to 2010 what 3 Idiots was to 2009. It will infuse oxygen into Bollywood’s veins. The craze for the film worldwide is far beyond what we can imagine. Shah Rukh and Kajol are a screen pair that is adored by millions. When they combine with Karan, it becomes an invaluable combination.” According to Taran, what is also going to work for the film is the fact that Red Chillies and Dharma Productions have tied up with Fox Star (India) who will release the film in two phases. The first phase will come on February 12, 2010 in the countries where mainstream Bollywood cinema has a definite market and then there will be a deferred release leading up to almost June 2010, where newer markets for Bollywood are being tapped. “It is a brilliant release strategy,” says Taran.
Theatre owners across the globe are absolutely in sync with the trade pundits and Bollywood insiders say that the excitement leading up to the movie is a ‘never-before-phenomena’.

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2010-02-10T07:15:00.001-08:00

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Maharashtra govt cracks down on Shiv Sena, 1000 detained

2010-02-10T04:39:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: In a crackdown against Shiv Sena, over 1000 of its activists were detained ahead of the release of Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'My Name is

Naked Body Scan of Indian Actor Shahrukh Khan Printed at Heathrow and Circulated Among Staff

2010-02-09T21:48:00.001-08:00

Following the Christmas Day bomber incident, London's Heathrow airport issued a warning, that all passengers randomly selected to be scanned by the x-ray technology must do so, or risk not boarding the plane. Travelers were concerned about their privacy because the machines churn out near-naked photos of passengers in order to expose any harmful objects under the clothing. The UK Transport Secretary Lord Adonis, however, assured that the images were immediately deleted. Yet, recently the naked body scans of Indian actor, Shahrukh Khan, were printed and later presented to the star by airport staff hoping for autographs. "You've got to see them. It makes you embarrassed - if you're not well endowed," said Khan, commenting on how the scans produce clear images of a person's genitals. The body scanners were already under dispute, and considered by opponents as a breach of privacy and the basic notion of innocent until proven guilty. Now in addition, international radiation safety groups are also warning about the health risks they pose. Overall, it seems the ugly aspects of these controversial scanners are becoming more and more exposed. [PP]

"I'm very proud to be indian": ShahRukh khan

2010-02-09T05:26:00.000-08:00

ilm star Shah Rukh Khan spoke to NDTV's Barkha Dutt in an exclusive interview telecast on Sunday. Here are excerpts of what Khan, who has been in the eye of a storm ever since he made a statement that he would have liked to see Pakistani players in the third season of the Indian Premier League, said.

On his return home
When you're not in the house, you hear too many things; you know they are exaggerated; you tend to get worried. You don't have to explain why you love your motherland. I'm very proud [to be an Indian] because my dad was a freedom fighter... I don't have too many principles. I am a good citizen, I pay my taxes. Suddenly, when you are questioned about all this, you get very emotional about it. I have a strange, positive chip on my shoulder.

On Pakistan and terrorism
We cannot start ascribing one, two, ten people's actions to everyone. Let's kill those guys who have harmed India. Those people should be punished. Sports and culture, these are things that will bind this country together.

I totally believe that anyone who is not a terrorist, from anywhere in the world, should not be clubbed together [with terrorists]. By that association, are all Goans rapists? Maybe I'm a coward, but I took a decision and I spoke up. I stand by it. The least we can do is not label other people. I don't think that's nice, logical or democratic.

Being an Indian and a Muslim, I just want to say, let's not overreact. Let's keep some equilibrium, some sanity, and resolve this. Now, [Pakistan] is coming around with international pressure.

On Pakistani players
Bal Thackeray asked why we didn't buy a Pakistani player. I wanted to; the gentleman was hurt. I'm talking about Pakistani players as players, on merit. My captain and coach wanted a player. He hurt himself. We went ahead and took the next best choice.

The stakes are high. If today you try to take a Pakistani player in your team, as a businessman or a team owner, will we be able to play? Will there be a diktat [banning them]? It was just that: visa, NOC, security problems, and the problem that in Mumbai all hell can break loose.

We didn't consider any nationality while picking the players. I can't speak for others [IPL teams].

Are we never gonna play hockey [with Pakistan]? I have to assume, maybe so post-26 11.

On why he did not apologise
What is the fuss about? If I say we should have good relations with everybody... I don't know what to retract. Here, on your show, let me retract... let us have bad relations with everyone.

There is no discussion in this matter. What is the fuss about? What would anyone tell me to retract? Ideologies can be separate. There is no discussion we can have on ideology. I would not like to talk about anybody's ideology. But, yes, I would like a party that is more secular. My ideology is different. If my ideology is different from yours, I wouldn't want a discussion on that. It's not important, just because a few people think differently from us... I'm smart enough to know these are times for agendas. I've never had an ideological discussion with anyone.

I don't know what to retract. I said I'm not going to apologise. I do not understand what to apologise for. I'm not trying to be stupid. Genuinely, I am not stupid.

On the lack of support from the film industry
We are here in this industry to sell entertainment. Suddenly, I cannot be responsible for people going to a theatre and getting hurt. My wife and kids go to theatres to watch films; I stopped them after 26/11. I'm a good, thinking Indian. If I did not have the vulnerability of a movie I would show you power.

We are not homogenous. We are different people, different thoughts. But we are family. We are friends. Yes, when there was an earthquake we all come out.

Principles are weak in the industry. Wednesday and Thursday are not days for being bold. Nobody's a coward in the industry. I thank all those who came out in support. I have never stood by them myself. How can I suddenly expect them to stand by me? I told exhibitors to please give us a chance, exhibitors were backing out. Ask me anything on Thursday, I will do it.

On religious differences
I speak very strongly as a Muslim who has been accepted as a son of the country. I think it's old-fashioned to talk about religion. All this is nonsense. If we are gonna talk about regionalism every two minutes, all this is nonsense. Then nobody should talk about India Shining etc.

On Mumbai and Marathi
It would be nice if the city's cabbies knew the language. I'm a Mumbaikar. I have lived in Mumbai for 20 years. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to learn Marathi.

It is very important to talk about the issues of the Marathi manoos, but it is not the most important thing.

Everyone says Mumbai is the commercial capital of India. But no new business has opened in Mumbai in the last 20 years. It was supposed to be the heart of the country. These are important things.

We have three identities, family identity and religion, work identity, and national identity. Both family identity and work identity are subsets of your national identity.

On how his family has taken the controversy
My daughter asked if we were leaving Mumbai. There were suggestions on where we should go. It's sad. I thought for a moment, "Nobody can tell Daddy to leave." I was called a traitor. I don't take it seriously. I'm called Badshah. I don't take that seriously either.

My wife felt bad for Karan and Kajol. I want that film [My Name Is Khan] to come out. I worked like a dog for it. And I'm not saying this for publicity.

If they stone the theatres exhibiting my film, what can I do? I'm tired of trying to explain this. I'm hoping/assuming that nothing will happen. I've been told the signals are good. But I'm genuinely not confident about it.

Shahrukh Khan ‘Touched’ by Twitter Fans

2010-02-06T22:31:00.001-08:00

King Khan took over New York City earlier this week when he came to promote his new movie “My Name is Khan,” with his co-star Kajol, but he was also asked about recently joining Twitter.
And Shahrukh Khan admitted that instead of using Twitter as a social network tool to post short updates about his whereabouts, he uses is to chat with fans who ask him all kinds of questions!
“I’m shy but one night Karan [Johar] told me to do it so I said ok and I did it. Once I came on I was touched to see that I had so many people following me,” SRK revealed.

“I’ve never had so many questions since I was interrogated at Newark Airport!” he added jokingly in reference to last year’s incident when the King of Bollywood, just like his character in “My Name is Khan,” was detained at a U.S. airport and questioned for hours.
Well we’re happy to see that Shahrukh has not lost his good sense of humor amid all the controversy!

Are you following Shahrukh Khan on Twitter? Drop us a line.

Kajol calls Shiv Sena ‘monkeys’

2010-02-06T22:30:00.000-08:00

The latest celeb to comment on the hullabaloo among Shiv Sena, Rahul Gandhi and Shah Rukh Khan, is none other than Bollywood actor Kajol.
In her latest tweet (posted about an hour back), she has described the Sena as ‘Bandar Sena’ (monkey soldiers).
At the same time, she praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for having a day out in Mumbai, thereby stumping the Shiv Senas who had geared up to show him black flags and disrupt his programmes for his “Mumbai for all Indians” remark.
“will be back to Mumbai!!! Hope the Bandar Sena wont stop us thumbs up for Rahul!!! Bravo!!!” tweeted Kajol, who is presently in London for the promotion of her upcoming film ‘My Name is Khan’.
“Shiv Sena has become a Joke to the Nation!!! they are instilling hatred! I guess they still din’t learn any lesson from the Election debacle,” read another of her tweets at her Twitter account kajolnysa.
“because of some dirty politics, #india is trailing behind the world, lets be together and show them power of democracy …” Kajol wrote in a post.
Earlier, Shiv Sena had said the party would not allow ‘My Name is Khan’ to be released in Mumbai unless Shah Rukh Khan apologises for his comments on Pak cricketers.
“all mumbaikers , don’t worry people, even chengez khan can’t stp MNIK release, relax and let all ur positive energy flow here,” tweeted Kajol .
‘My Name is Khan’ is one of the first Bollywood films to be distributed by Fox Searchlight Pictures in the US.

Salman backs SRK, Abhishek chips in

2010-02-06T22:29:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan’s battle against the Shiv Sena may have been a fairly lonely one so far. Few Bollywood stars or directors have spoken in support of him. But on Friday, it was Salman Khan, who spoke loudly and clearly for SRK. A rift between the two Khans has been acknowledged by both men in the past.

Salman said to NDTV, “These players were coming here to hit balls… why the ruckus? Politics and support should not mix.” Salman, who has also said recently that he’d like to buy an IPL team, said if found a good player, he’d buy him, irrespective of his nationality.

Shah Rukh Khan’s movie, directed by Karan Johar, is scheduled for release on Friday, February 12. The Shiv Sena has sent letters to Mumbai’s cinema-owners warning them not to screen the film. The Sena wants SRK to apologise for stating that Pakistanicricketers should be included in the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). In London earlier this week, Khan said he would not retract.

In Mumbai, Police Commissioner, D Sivanandan, said, “After Rahul Gandhi’s visit, the release of My Name Is Khan is the next big challenge and I’ve assured producers that we are ready in all ways.”

Except for a few comments from actors like Arjun Rampal and Farhan Akhtar, Bollywood’s silence over the controversy has been deafening. In fact, Amitabh Bachchan blogged lavish praise for Bal Thackeray earlier this week. On Friday, Abhishek Bachchan tweeted “All that has been happening over the past few days is very unfortunate and sad! I believe that sports, arts & culture should be above politics. My family and I have faced many such incidents in the past. And all I wish for is peace andharmony to prevail over all citizens.”

In an interview to NDTV’s Barkha Dutt, Jaya Bachchan pointed out that when she faced Raj Thackeray’s wrath two years ago for speaking in Hindi at a public event, nobody from Bollywood came to her rescue either.

And Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said, “Shah Rukh Khan has said the right thing. The Shiv Sena, Thackeray is wrong, and everyone knows that, and the whole country is against them. What the Sena is doing is against national unity.”

Shah Rukh Khan apology for Kajol, Karan not Shiv Sena, multiplexes jittery!

2010-02-05T03:27:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan, who has been embroiled in a controversy with the right wing Hindu Party Shiv Sena in war of words regarding his comment about Pakistani players’ participation in IPL matches, has tendered his apology to Kajol and Karan Johar but refused to bow before the Sena’s dictates.

Shah Rukh Khan, who was speaking in London, said that he was saddened that Karan Johar’s production ‘My Name Is Khan’ was being threatened by Sena in Mumbai and he would have to suffer losses due to his (SRK) statement. Similarly, he also offered his apology to co- star Kajol, who features opposite him in ‘My Name Is Khan’ as Mandira. King Khan went on to say sorry to his business associates who would have to suffer if Sena stopped his film from screening in Mumbai.

However, SRK stoutly refused to budge from his ground against Shiv Sena on his views. In fact, the beleaguered Khan went on to say that he was at a loss to understand for what he should be sorry or apologetic. Is it about being Indian or believing in his constitutional right of expression of his views on Pakistani players or anything else?

Shah Rukh Khan was sad that his children Aryan and Suhana had to shift to his close friend Chunky Pandey due to ongoing agitation against him by Sena in Mumbai. Sena leaders had said that SRK should understand that ‘Mannat’ (SRK’s house) is situated in Mumbai and not in Karachi (Pakistan).

Shah Rukh even cited the example of ‘Billoo Barber’ and said that if anything was wrong on his part or he had offended anyone sentiments even unwittingly, he never hesitated in tendering his unconditional apology. SRK had said sorry to barber community who were hurt by the use of name ‘barber’ in the title of the film. Shah Rukh even had agreed to remove the word from the name of the film.

But this time with Shiv Sena, he has refused to bow down by offering any apology as SRK thinks that he had done nothing wrong or hurt anyone’s sentiments. He had simply expressed his views on Pakistani players as he was also owner of Kolkata Knight Riders team of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Though Shah Rukh Khan is keeping his line of no apology against Shiv Sena but multiplex owners are getting jittery day by day with the belligerence being shown by both the parties. In fact, as the CEO of PVR cinemas says that they are still hoping of an amicable solution before the date of release of ‘My Name Is Khan’, which is still a week away.

However, there is also an undercurrent of fear among the owners of Multiplexes as they have yet to receive any official communication about security from Mumbai Police Commissioner D Shivnandan. It’s surprising that the Govt and commissioner have assured the theatres about security, but have not sent any communication in this regard.

If the issue does not get resolved before the release of ‘My Name Is Khan’, the theatres owners, who have already removed publicity material from their premises, are not sure that they would be screening the Shah Rukh Khan’s new flick.

Support the My Name is Khan release!

2010-02-03T03:25:00.001-08:00

The world is getting ready to watch My Name Is Khan, Shah Rukh Khan's [ Images ] first solo starrer in two years, on February 12.

But the Shah Rukh-Kajol movie may not be seen in Mumbai [ Images ] if the Shiv Sena [ Images ] has its way.

The Sena has been protesting against the superstar's comments on Pakistani players in the IPL and vowed that it will not allow the film to be released till he apologises. Theatres in Mumbai are reported to have removed the film's posters and asked for police protection.

Do you support the release of My Name Is Khan? Click here!

My Name is Khan Official Page

2010-01-30T04:24:00.000-08:00

My Name is Khan Official Page
Please join Official My Name is Khan on facebook

http://www.facebook.com/mnikofficial and on twitter http://twitter.com/officialmnik

To get Latest updates and Win Prizes daily, and a chance to meet MNIK Team.

SRK: I don’t know how much I earn

2010-01-30T04:20:00.000-08:00

He came, he mouthed dialogues from his super-hit films and he conquered. In his own signature style. And very few can say ‘Kem cho Amdavad’ with

Shah Rukh Khan More Pics

so much of warmth. Well, when you are talking about superstar Shah Rukh Khan, everything has to be in perfect harmony.

And yes, he didn’t forget to promote his friend Aamir Khan’s 3 Idiots. “3 Idiots is a very nice film, I want each one of you to see it,” says Shah Rukh who came to Ahmedabad after a decade. “I hardly get time to go on a holiday, I travel only while I am shooting. The city roads are very beautiful here. I have friends here whom I call Jaybhai and Juhiben,” he laughs. And he loves his share of “khandvi, dhokla and theplas. I love Gujarati food.”
Talking about his forthcoming film My Name Is Khan, SRK who was in town to inaugurate a miniplex in the city says, “It has got nothing to do with my real name. My last film was Billoo. It is the subject of the film and this is the name that suits the film. It is just a co-incidence.” clarifies SRK.

And after years, he’s back with Kajol on the silver screen and the entire nation is waiting to see them together. And when the film is directed by Karan Johar, it has to be more special. “They (Karan and Kajol) both are talented. I am working with Kajol after years — she is marvellous and beautiful. Karan feels a lot for me — whenever he wishes to cast me, he writes a film for me,” he says.

The film is different from what he has done in the past. So is it a conscious decision to do such a film? “I am not someone who believes to doing a film just because it is off beat. There is something special in every role I do. The essence is that I leave something of me in every role — not 100 per cent. This role is very special as it is more technical and I had to learn a lot about it,” he says.

And he dismisses all talks of reinventing himself as an actor. “I am the same old actor. When people question me I really look back and think but I feel people love characters like Rahul or Raj because they are different. Every role is different and I am not reinventing myself as an actor,” says SRK.

In the midst of talks on films and success, he adds, “I wasn’t supposed to work for nine months after my surgery but I did work on a slow pace. I believe the show must go on. This is also the price a star has to pay. But the good thing was that I got to spend a lot of time with my kids. Both my children boss over me and it is meant to be like that. My strength to work in such situations comes from my family and people who love to watch me,” he says.

And how does he see tomorrow? On a philosophical note, he says, “I am where I never thought I would be. I got much more that what I had expected. I am strong believer in God, hard work and honesty. My family and my close relationships keep me grounded and they are more important than my career. My family likes me as a person and not because I am an actor. I never mix the two. I don’t know how much I earn or how many awards I have received.”
And yes, the man who has ruled many hearts across the world has a word of advice: “Money is a good thing to run after. It is very important to be financially stable but you have to keep your wrongs and rights in mind. Don’t shy away from earning but without selling your soul.”

Attack of the bridezilla

2010-01-30T04:18:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan got married again yesterday at a five-star hotel in Ahmedabad to 20-year-old Tillana Desai. Wait, don’t jump to conclusions, it was a mock wedding that SRK impulsively thought up to pacify the girl who is in love with him. SRK was promoting his film My Name is Khan and didn’t think he’d run into a girl, dressed up as a bride, who also wanted her name to be Khan!

Our source said, “At his film’s event, SRK had to meet people with unusual love stories. Among the crowd, was 20-year-old Tillana Desai, who had come dressed in full bridal finery. When SRK asked her about her love story, she said she had been in love with a guy since she was seven but can’t marry him as he is already married.

When SRK asked her who the guy was, he was surprised to know that he was the man in question. She also said that she only uses the products that he endorses and refuses to buy anything else. The girl insisted that SRK should marry her. SRK used his million-dollar charm to overcome the awkwardness. The girl had even brought a ring with her. He went down on his knees and slipped the ring on her finger, saying that this is their rehearsal for the wedding.”

The lucky girl is on cloud nine. To have SRK down on his knees is many a girl’s dream, but she was the one who ended up with the special attention. We spoke to Tillana Desai, who gushed, “SRK was really cute. Usne mujhe yeh wedding ring pehnai. I told him that I’ve been crazy about him for years. Unfortunately, he is married. I guess he thought that my love story was very unusual and that’s why he said that we should get married and gave me this ring.

I will never remove the ring and I am glad that he accepted my love and admiration for him. He even asked me about my family and I told him that they could not make it. However, I invited him to my house for dinner, but I guess he was busy.”

Tillana Desai and Shah Rukh Khan

SRK’s $300,000 wax figure to beunveiled in US

2010-01-30T04:15:00.001-08:00

Bollywood’s biggest star Shah Rukh Khan will be honoured in Hollywood later on Thursday when his wax likeness is unveiled at Los Angeles’ new Madame Tussauds museum.The honour marks the 20th anniversary of his King of Bollywood title, which Shah Rukh was given at the beginning of his impressive film career, reports a website. Shah Rukh’s wax work double cost $300,000 to make.

MOON CRATER NAMED AFTER SRK

2010-01-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

Fans go Over the Moon

Bollywood badshah Shahrukh Khan isn't just a star on earth, he is now a part of a star up in space. In a first for a film star, a New York-based organization called the International Lunar Geographic Society have gone ahead and named a lunar crater 'Shahrukh Khan'.

'Crater SR Khan' is located in the moon's Sea of Tranquillity and is the largest of the four Arago craters, positioned directly South of the main crater. The name was approved by the all powerful International Astronomical Union which handles the nomenclature of all lunar craters. According to the International Lunar Geographic Society, "the crater has been given the honorary designation as the Crater S R Khan on the occasion of Mr Khan's 44th birthday." The society says that there were a large number of petitions in favor of Shahrukh Khan from his die hard fans across the globe, and that they were more than happy to name the crater after the star.

Some of the fans are absolutely besotted by SRK, one of them even bought a piece of land on the Moon and presented it to him. Of course 'SR Khan' is not the only Indian name on the Moon, there are a few craters named after Nobel laureate C V Raman, Vikram Sarabhai who is the father of the Indian space programme , Homi Bhabha the pioneer of the nuclear programme in India, apart from astrophysicist Meghnad Saha (of the famous Saha equation). Shahrukh is no stranger to the space programme. He was invited to NASA's Johnson Space Centre back in 2001 by Eugene Cernan, the last man who visited the Moon. SRK also had a bit of fun with a model of the lunar vehicle at NASA's Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, where his film 'Swades' was shot.

However, Shahrukh's name on the crater has not made everyone happy. Suresh Naik, the president of the National Space Society condemned the move and called it 'shocking'. Others wanted Amitabh Bachchan's name on the Moon.

Although the majority of the members in the scientific community are in favour of the nomenclature. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, the pioneer of the Indian Moon Mission supported it. Pradeep Mohandas, the Secretary of the Indian chapter of the Moon Society is also with Kasturirangan, "I think it is not a bad idea since it reflects the thinking of the new generation of young Indians," he said. "I do see a rationale behind this decision. He is a kind of ambassador for India and this reflects the way India views him," he said.

Source: http://www.india.com/movies/movies/moon-crater-named-

More sleepless nights for Shah Rukh!

2010-01-24T00:11:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh is one of the busiest men in Bollywood these days. Even though he is off shooting for any film for now, his schedule is packed. The mighty Khan is caught between two of his dear projects. While at one hand he has promotional plans lined up for ‘My Name is Khan’, he also has to concentrate on his IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders.

Dulha Mil Gaya runs to packed houses in Trinidad

2010-01-23T23:23:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan and Sushmita Sen starrer Dulha Mil Gaya, which was partly filmed in Trinidad and Tobago, is now running to packed houses in several parts of the country.

The Bollywood movie opened here Wednesday. The scenes shot in Trinidad and Tobago ensured good participation not only from Indians, but other ethnic groups as well.

Anthony Maharaj, executive producer of the movie, said that the opportunity to produce Dulha Mil Gaya came from Maniedeo Persad, Trinidad and Tobago's High Commissioner to India and Hindi film producer Vivek Vaswani.

Maharaj told the media that producing the movie was a great opportunity for the country in which 44 percent of the population has its origins from two states in India - Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Shah Rukh Khan and Sushmita Sen starrer Dulha Mil Gaya, which was partly filmed in Trinidad and Tobago, is now running to packed houses in several parts of the country.

The Bollywood movie opened here Wednesday. The scenes shot in Trinidad and Tobago ensured good participation not only from Indians, but other ethnic groups as well.

Anthony Maharaj, executive producer of the movie, said that the opportunity to produce Dulha Mil Gaya came from Maniedeo Persad, Trinidad and Tobago's High Commissioner to India and Hindi film producer Vivek Vaswani.

Maharaj told the media that producing the movie was a great opportunity for the country in which 44 percent of the population has its origins from two states in India - Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

During 1845-1917, the Indians were brought here to work on the sugar and cocoa plantations and their children now constitute 44 percent of the total population of 1.3 million people.

Maharaj, who has distributed Indian films here since the 1940s, said to link up for this movie was an emotional moment.

Dulha Mil Gaya did not do well at the Indian box office, but is expected to be acreened here for several weeks.

During 1845-1917, the Indians were brought here to work on the sugar and cocoa plantations and their children now constitute 44 percent of the total population of 1.3 million people.

Maharaj, who has distributed Indian films here since the 1940s, said to link up for this movie was an emotional moment.

Dulha Mil Gaya did not do well at the Indian box office, but is expected to be acreened here for several weeks.

I hated Kajol on the first day: Shah Rukh

2010-01-19T03:08:00.000-08:00

In an exclusive show, Shah Rukh Khan talks about his childhood desires and initial days in the film industry.

Click Here to watch the video.

Shahrukh Khan leaks details on Don 2 and Ra.One!

2010-01-19T03:04:00.000-08:00

Bollywood's king Shahrukh Khan let slip a couple of interesting titbits today from his twitter account, the juice involves his upcoming big budget films Ra.1 and the sequel to Don.

According to Shahrukh, 'Don 2' begins filming in September or early October. As we reported earlier, Farhan Akhtar's sequel to 'Don' promises to be four times as big and a dozen times as slick as the original film. The director, along with his buddy and producing partner Ritesh Sidhwani recently returned from an exhausting trip to Europe; the duo were scouting locations to shoot Don 2 which expands upon the storyline set in the first film.

Don 2 will have a humongous budget and will feature some big chase scenes never before seen in Indian cinema. Farhan and Ritesh have decided to take the production design a couple of notches higher. "We selected a few places in London and then went to Ireland. Dublin is certainly on the cards. The locations are breath taking. After that we flew to Germany. We went to Frankfurt and Berlin. Our scouting certainly proved fruitful and we have decided on the places that we will be shooting", said Ritesh Sidhwani.

Farhan and Ritesh intend to take the Don franchise the way of the Bourne Trilogy. Like 'The Bourne Supremacy', Don 2 will tighten up the plot, action, pace and locales. What's more, if Don 2 does well financially, Farhan and Ritesh have promised to dole out Don 3.

Shahrukh also tweeted regarding his superhero film 'Ra.One'. As per his tweet, 'ra.one is short form for random access version one. reads like it is written. RAONE. its a movie about gaming and superheroes and bad guys.' SRK also dismissed rumours regarding Aishwarya Rai being a part of the film. 'no aish is not in the film. the final cast will be announced soon ...waiting for just some last bit of casting. yes it does read as in ravan' he tweeted.

Both 'Don 2' and 'Ra.One' are expected to release on 2011. SRK's only release for 2010 is Karan Johar's 'My Name is Khan'.

the international trailer of my name is Khan

2010-01-14T06:49:00.001-08:00

KKR comes up again

2010-01-13T09:03:00.000-08:00

The start of the new year has signalled that the Indian Premiere League is not far away. As the Kolkata Knight Riders players get busy with their preparatory camp their owner Shahrukh Khan paid them a visit. While interacting with the media the My Name Is Khan actor said that he was disappointed with the performance of his team in the last two seasons of the IPL but team has to look ahead and bury the poor performance of the past.

Buzz up!

Shahrukh said that “I regret losing, I don’t like losing. I also regret that I have let Kolkata down, more so because of the love this city has showered on us. We’re a good and honest side and I believe we can do much better than what we have so far. We have to bring cohesiveness into the team. It’s also about proving to myself that if I undertake a job, I can be successful at it.”

On the preparation to IPL 3 Shahrukh said “I’m not the right person here to talk about cricket. There are many experts Sourav (Ganguly), Dav (Whatmore) , Wasim (Akram) who have a better understanding of the game. We have a fresh approach to everything this year. We have a new coach in Dav, a new group of support staff and of course, there’s Wasim. I’m glad they haven’t changed me at least! Hopefully, by the end of the year we will be able to make Kolkata proud.”

When asked about his sudden visit to the preparatory camp Shahrukh said “This is certainly not the first time I have visited KKR at practice. I’m sure I have done that earlier too. Last year, things were too jumbled up — I got injured and then the tournament was shifted to South Africa. During the first edition, we had to play at a very short notice, so there wasn’t really too much time for practice. But this time it’s different and we are more organised.”

MNIK music: Not fancy, yet very likable

2010-01-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

Emotions (and grandeur) are the backbone of Karan Johar's [ Images ] creations. Be it Kuch Kuch Hota Hai [ Images ], Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kabhie Alvida Naa Kehna, Kal Ho Naa Ho and now, My Name is Khan.

In his new film, again set in the US of A, however, the filmmaker's not glamourising the good life of a green card holder instead choosing to delve into prevalent ethnic disparities, post 9/11, through the curious case of his titular protagonist, Khan.

And to do so, he picks his favourite actors -- Shah Rukh Khan [ Images ] and Kajol [ Images ] -- while the musical troika of Shankar-Loy-Ehsaan along with lyricist Niranjan Iyengar is credited for its score.

Considering KJo's inclination towards sentimentality, the music bearing strong Sufi flavours though fluently melodious is feverishly emotional in content.

While that gives us a fair indication of what to expect from this big-budget drama, here's a look at its not-too-extensive soundtrack.

The opening track Sajda begins along the lines of Om Shanti Om's [ Images ] Jag soona soona lage. It is sung by Richa Sharma, Shankar Mahadevan [ Images ] and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan [ Images ]. A sense of breezy passion and poetic adulation run freely in the romance and reverence of the celebratory Sajda. Certainly, an upbeat, cheerful ditty but not entirely brand new in feel to overlook its passing resemblance to Shukran allah (Kurbaan [ Images ]) and Iktaara (Wake Up Sid [ Images ]) every now and then.

Despite its downcast texture and gloomy notes, there's nothing soppy about Adnan Sami [ Images ], Shankar Mahadevan and Shreya Ghosal's [ Images ] fervently exalted, desperate pleas in Noor-e-khuda. Poignant and profound, it's not possible to remain unmoved by the heartfelt resonance of this composition. The crisp huskiness of Ustad Rashid Khan's intense baritone furiously chanting Allah hi rahem evokes a similar sort of reaction. The maestro, is at his captivating best in a rendition so flawless and trance-inducing.

Breaking away from the previous songs' despondent mood, Shafqat Amanat Ali steps up to serenade in style with Tere naina. Even as Iyengar's uninspired poetry borderlines on contrived, S-E-L escalates the tone and arrangement with just enough zing and play to pass the muster.

A 'perfect-start-to-my-morning' brand of road song, Rang de packs in truckloads of spirit, zest and punch with its stirring fusion of rock, classical and Shankar Mahadevan's confident high-pitch while sending out the message of peace and love.

Pakistan's popular rock group, Strings, collaborates with Dharma Productions to deliver My Name is Khan's dramatic, enchanting but mostly larger-than-life theme. Apt fit for a Karan Johar film, isn't it?

As for the soundtrack, it's neither fancy nor groundbreaking but warm enough to make us like it.

Rediff Rating:

Sukanya Verma in Mumbai

Salman, Shahrukh headed for truce!

2010-01-13T09:00:00.001-08:00

For some time we have been witnessing the teeny-weeny signs of thaw setting in the long enduring chill between the two Khans of Bollywood. Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan may not be locking in friendly embraces, but the two have at least moved beyond bitterness and animosity.

Just when we thought the two could not venture within the reachable distance of each other, the duo surprised us at the premiere of 3 Idiots where they were just a handshake away.

Now, Salman, the more mercurial of the two Khans, has done something unexpected. He recently messaged Karan Johar to compliment him on the look of My Name Is Khan, which, we all know, has SRK at the helm. Salman reportedly liked the trailer of the movie and didn’t hesitate to express his appreciation to K-Jo.

The compliment was returned rather promptly by SRK, who, at a recent award function, minced no words to praise Salman’s upcoming film Veer, adding that he was looking forward to watch the flick.

Well, the olive branches have been extended and the cracks have begun to fill in already. Now, when the two strapping Khans decide to bury the hatchet remains to be seen.

We’re waiting!

Shah Rukh Khan Takes Too Much Pain For 'My Name Is Khan'

2010-01-13T08:57:00.000-08:00

Perfection in acting is something needless to speak about Shah Rukh, but the pain that flows is too much for Khan. He literally went through a lot of pain while dedicating his role in ‘MNIK’.

He reportedly had to undergo severe migraines and pain in the neck while getting through the character in shootouts.

Eventually he had to land up with doctors, though he tried to ignore them for the first few times and popped pills in between the shoots.

As per the doctors report, the pain is in his neck and the headache was due strenous expressions and posture that he need to make an imitation of the character Rizwan, where Shah Rukh has to display the mental illness Asperger`s Syndrome.

He was reported to have never complained earlier about any hedache, director Karan Johar states, "I guess that`s one of the hazards when you play your role so intensely. Shah Rukh`s character Rizwan had to arch his eyebrows and focus his eyes on a certain place before every take. Halfway through the shooting of the film, Shah Rukh developed severe headaches as result of all the pressure it would put on his head so he had to see a neurosurgeon for that. We were worried... Shah Rukh has never had this problem before."

Perfection in acting is something needless to speak about Shah Rukh, but the pain that flows is too much for Khan. He literally went through a lot of pain while dedicating his role in ‘MNIK’.

He reportedly had to undergo severe migraines and pain in the neck while getting through the character in shootouts.

Eventually he had to land up with doctors, though he tried to ignore them for the first few times and popped pills in between the shoots.

Shahrukh’s imposter on Twitter going great guns

2010-01-06T22:32:00.000-08:00

Shahrukh breaks new records on the micro blogging site Twitter his imposter is also having the time of his life. Following Shahrukh tweet by tweet this person has been able to manage a fan following of close to 2000 people in just three days. How did he do it? Well, ifShahrukh chose his profile name to be ‘iamsrk’ his imposter simply kept it ‘imsrk.’ Although the identity of this imposter isn’t known as yet but he is definitely havingthe time of his life imposing for Shahrukh.

Shahrukh meanwhile has become the most sought after Indian celebrity on Twitter having a fan following of more than 30000 people. In his last tweet King Khan wrote “Got to go and sleep a bit. my dreams come on at 8 a.m…don’t want to miss any episodes. Todays r without commercial breaks too. love u all.” Not to miss a chance to promote his upcoming movie My Name Is Khan, SRK also twitted “Dubbing for khan for the 25th time…hyper karan making me do it again and again.”

Shahrukh to perform on stage after two years

2010-01-06T22:30:00.003-08:00

After a gap of two years, Shahrukh Khan will again ablaze the stage. He will shake his legs at an award function. Shahrukh Khan will dance to his hit numbers at the Chevrolet Apsara Film and Television Producers Guild Awards function. The function will be held at the Chitrakoot Grounds in Andheri on Saturday.

Apart from Shahrukh, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Vidya Balan, Arshad Warsi and Vivek Oberoi are the other attraction of the show.

Over 30 awards will be given away to the winners from the field of television and films. Wizcraft Entertainment is behind this gala event. An accomplished jury members has decided the winners.

Shahrukh to perform on stage after two years

2010-01-06T22:30:00.001-08:00

3 Idiots’ Premiere rocks: SRK-Salman avoid brushing

2010-01-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

It was the mother of all premieres Bollywood is used to seeing every week. For one it was none other than perfectionist Aamir Khan’s movie and secondly the who’s who of Bollywood was attending. Aamir wore a handmade fabric suit during the 3 Idiots premiere said he was feeling nervous about the movie. He was being accompanied by wife Kiran Rao.

Kareena Kapoor the leading lady who is recovering from illness donned a sizzling saree looked confident about her latest flick. Sharman Joshi and Madhavan were at their cheerful best. Director Raj Kumar Hirani and Vidhu Vinod Chopra welcomed their guests at the Imax, Wadala in Mumbai. Amitabh Bachchan who had confirmed his presence at the premiere skipped the event at the last minute due to unavoidable circumstance.
One moment the audience was waiting for was to see Aamir along with Shahrukh Khan and Salman Khan together. The three Khans were under the same roof yet didn’t come together. Salman and Shahrukh who are fighting a Cold War have made it a point not to bump into each other. Shahrukh was heard saying “I have not come here to make friendship,” He later added “I have no issues with anybody.” On three Khans appearing together on screen SRK candidly replied “If we all have the dates and we all like the same story, maybe yes, maybe not.”

Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi who had worked with Raj Kumar Hirani in the Munnabhai series came for the old time’s sake. Aamir’s nephew Imran Khan, the latest heartthrob of Bollywood, was present on the occasion with ladylove Avantika. Kareena’s beau Saif Ali Khan also attended the premier complete the Khan brigade. Other celebrities who attended the premiere included Dia Mirza, Genelia D’Souza, Javed Akhtar, Anil Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Vidya Balan, Prasoon Joshi, Sonu Nigam

Shah Rukh, Farah Khan patch up!

2010-01-01T07:39:00.001-08:00

That all was not hunky dory between Farah Khan and Shah Rukh Khan is well-known. The two however seem to have sorted their differences. It was only last week that Farah Khan with her triplets, went over to Shah Rukh’s and sorted out differences. SRK and Farah Khan will be working together soon!

According to a source, what had caused the rift between Farah and Shah Rukh was Akshay Kumar’s involvement in ‘Tees Maar Khan’. Shah Rukh least expected that Farah would sign up Akshay and not him for the film. And why did Farah do that? “Shah Rukh kept delaying Farah’s film Happy New Year. How long could she have waited for him? There was a time when the two of them distanced themselves from each other. That was a phase of uneasy calm on both sides,” we’re told.

Farah and Shah Rukh go a long way back! They share such a wonderful bond that one movie can’t ruin it. In fact, a few days ago, Farah got a call from SRK’s production house to direct a television advertisement and she agreed. So all’s well now between Shah Rukh and Farah. In fact, Farah has been taking ample advice from the Khan regarding her film ‘Tees Maar Khan’ which will star Akshay Kumar.

THE NICEST LOVE STORY

2009-12-20T03:24:00.000-08:00

hah Rukh Khan says My Name is Khan is a story about hope, love and positivity

SHAH RUKH KHAN may have two decades of experience playing the romantic hero but the actor says that My Name is Khan, where he plays an autistic man mistaken for a terrorist, is the "nicest love story I have ever worked in".

"It is the physical and emotional journey, that the two characters Rizwan and Mandira (SRK and Kajol) go through to find love. The story is about hope, love and positivity," SRK told reporters after unveiling the first look of the film which releases in February 2010.

"It's about humanity, love and sacrifice and not religion. The film is a fiction based on 9/11," he said. The 44-year-old actor who has also co-produced the film said that Kajol and director Karan Johar supported him in the endeavour to make the "biggest film" of their careers.

"They gave me freedom to make mistakes and improve my performance during the shooting. Karan is an intense director with a sense of humour. I, Kajol and Karan understand each other completely as professionals. We need not say things to each other," said the actor.

Source: Khaleej Times

If I look good, people say I've had plastic surgery: SRK

2009-11-02T04:00:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan might have turned 44, but the actor says that he still feels like a 25-year-old.

Speaking at a press conference in Mumbai on his birthday SRK said, "I accept the age that I am in, but I actually feel like I am 25 or 26, except for a few physical injuries that I have had."

Sharing his secret about his good looks Shah Rukh said, "The funny part is that when I look nice, people think that I must have done a plastic surgery
, and when I look bad they say I am over and done with. The secret is that on days when I sleep well, I look good and the days when I don't, I look old."

When asked about the year gone by SRK said, "Fortunately or unfortunately, I count my years by the work that I do. Last year has been bad on the physical work front, I haven't done too much work either. Whatever little work that I have done has not done as well as I wanted it to be. Kolkata Knight Riders hasn't reached the heights that I had wished it would. The injury has put me down in terms of my advertising, endorsements, meetings etc. But on the other hand, what has been wonderful this year is that I have had time to introspect, I have become quieter. I have been able to spent a lot of time with my children. Somehow, all this has made me feel more energetic and happy."

Sounding positive about the future SRK said, "Because of this one year break, you all will have to deal with a lot more energy, lot more work and lot more happiness for the next two years."
Source: NTDV

Shahrukh Khan Throws Party for Jermaine Jackson

2009-10-31T06:42:00.001-07:00

Bollywood was all abuzz last night when B-town big shot Shahrukh Khan threw a party for the late Michael Jackson’s brother Jermaine Jackson, who is in town to record an album with music legend Adnan Sami.

Shilpa Shetty, who recently blogged about bumping into her former Big Brother house mate in Mumbai and inviting him over for dinner, attended the event, as did Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta.

Working with Adnan Sami has not been a walk in the park as the two famous composers have bumped into some problems along the way. While shooting the video for one of their songs, Adnan got injured in the waters near the Gateway of India as a speedboat went a little too fast. "I guess the man navigating the boat took his job a little too seriously. He was moving too fast through the water and the boat almost toppled over and turned turtle. I was knocked against a hard surface in the boat," said Adnan about the incident.

Before attending Shahrukh’s party, Jermaine had taken some time off to visit the Taj Mahal with his good friend Shilpa. "It’s been a long day as you know Jermaine and Halima, my dear friends are in town and they expressed their desire to see more of India. So Raj and I put an itinerary together with pride and set to show them one of the wonders of the world – the TAJ MAHAL! Landed in Agra in the morning, had lunch (yummy) at Amarvilas and took a Tonga (horse carriage – J was thrilled) to reach there. And low and behold – when we set eyes on this monument of true eternal love, our hearts skipped a beat! Gosh the beauty and workmanship is breathtaking!" the "Dostana" item girl wrote on her blog.

So check out our photos of Shahrukh Khan’s party in honor of Jermaine Jackson in Mumbai last night and tell us what you think!

Jermaine Jackson arrives at the party

Jermaine Jackson

Shilpa Shetty

Hrithik Roshan

Preity Zinta

SRK honoured by Korean government

2009-10-31T06:38:00.000-07:00

After receiving laurels from governments of foreign nations, Shah Rukh Khan will now be the recipient of a special honour, conferred by the Korean government.

Delegates from the Korean government have landed in New Delhi last evening and are scheduled to fly down to Mumbai on Thursday morning. Shah Rukh, touched by the gesture, has agreed to be present at the ceremony to accept the honour.

Shah Rukh’s close friend reveals, “These developments took place a couple of weeks ago. Shah Rukh will be conferred with a Black Belt Honorary in Taekwondo. Not only that, he will also be the ambassador of the Korean Culture and Tourism. SRK is mighty excited at this and feels modest that he is going to be the recipient of such a prestigious honou.

No war between Shah Rukh and me: Salman

2009-10-31T06:37:00.001-07:00

Bollywood actor Salman Khan says there is no war or rivalry between him and his colleague Shah Rukh Khan. He said stories of friction between them are created by the media and that he is tired of such ‘news’.

“There is no war between us. It is the media who creates all this misunderstanding,” Salman said on Tuesday after his ‘Being Human’ show at the ongoing HDIL India Couture Week.

“You will ask me some question about him here and then you will ask him the same question regarding me somewhere else - then you clip them together and run it continuously on TV screens for days creating unnecessary hype and misunderstanding,” he added.

The actor clarified that he is tired of such rumours and doesn’t enjoy them at all.

“I would request you to show respect to him and me as well. I am tired of all this. Aren’t you people bored too?” asked Salman.

Cool SRK flaunts grey!

2009-10-31T06:35:00.000-07:00

In a world that is youth-ist; and defined by vanity and a constant aim towards perfection, it was refreshing to spot a fresh-out-of-the-bed Shah Rukh Khan as he walked to a polling booth near Mount Mary, in Bandra, yesterday to cast his vote.We took note of SRK’s grey stubble — not clipped, not by design; a first for any Bollywood superstar. The normally stylish badshah who goes to great lengths to get his togs and look in place before any public appearance, (even at friends Karan Johar and Farah Khan’s talk shows), seemed to be comfortable in his own skin. We fully approve and hope that other 40-plus Bollywood stars would lighten up and emulate SRK’s coolth.

Shahrukh Khan flies off to Italy with Gauri

2009-10-11T01:02:00.000-07:00

Shahrukh Khan surely knows what his woman wants. He has left for Rome, Italy, with his wife Gauri Khan to celebrate her birthday, which falls on October 8.This time, Shah Rukh and Gauri want to have good time together with people who are very close to them sans any media glare. Their close friends Kaajal Anand and Karan Johar are likely to join them for Gauri’s 40th birthday.
It is said that the couple has chosen Rome over the US, London and Dubai for privacy.

What makes SRK tick?

2009-10-11T00:56:00.000-07:00

TAG Heuer, the world leader in luxury sports watches and chronographs, announced the renewal of its contract with Shah Rukh Khan in Mumbai on

Thursday with the launch of its Grand Carrera Calibre 36 RS2 Caliper Chronograph Ti2.

The Bollywood superstar, who began his association with the brand in 2003, is one of its longest-standing brand ambassadors worldwide.

“Shah Rukh Khan’s personality almost mirrors the brand’s values. His undying passion and eternal search for perfection and precision make him the perfect brand ambassador,” said Jean-Christophe Babin, President & CEO of the leading Swiss watch maker. He added, “Over the years, we have developed a deep affection for each other and it is with great pleasure that we announce an extension of this relationship. The soul of TAG Heuer is innovation, prestige, performance, precision, but above all there is passion. Passion is what inspires them and is what beats at the heart of every timepiece.”

Proud of the honour, Shah Rukh Khan said, “TAG Heuer was the first luxury watch that I ever bought with my own money. I remember the sense of achievement that I felt. I feel truly honoured to be associated with a brand that has such an unique and rich heritage and is one of the most prestigious brands in the world today.”

Dhoni tops celeb power list, SRK follows

2009-10-11T00:54:00.001-07:00

MUMBAI: With the cricketing season pouring on to the television space, the game "endorsers" have surely had their brand impact on the target consumers.

As a result, MS Dhoni has emerged as the top player to rule the all-India power list when it comes to celebrity brand endorsements, according to the second round of the CelebTrack findings, a joint endeavour between Percept Talent Management (PTM) and Hansa Research.

Dhoni has ousted Sachin Tendulkar, who led the first round findings, and has now slipped to fifth place.

Interestingly, Dhoni is also the top-earning cricketer in the world as per the Forbes’ list of the 10 top-earning cricketers in the world.

Meanwhile, in the CelebTrack findings, following Dhoni is Bollywood 'Badshah' Shah Rukh Khan, not a cricket star surely but, of course, the owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders IPL team. SRK has jumped three spots from his previous ranking of five.

Next in line stand the Bachchan clan, with daughter-in-law Aishwarya

Rai Bachchan taking the third slot and Amitabh Bachchan grabbing the fourth.

While Tendulkar takes second top-of-the-mind brand post when it comes to cricketers, it's Sania Mirza who tops the charts when all the other sports besides cricket is considered.

Brand Smriti Irani

, meanwhile, continues to rule the 'all India celeb power list' when it comes to television stars in the Hindi speaking market while Rakesh Roshan leads the director's score board.

"Our study also reveals the top 10 celebrities in the Hindi speaking market. Here too, Dhoni tops the list while Shah Rukh Khan ranks second. Big B comes third, followed by Akshay Kumar, Aishwarya Rai and Katrina Kaif. Hrithik, Yuvraj, Sachin and Aamir are also part of the list," says PTM CEO Manish Porwal.

With the endorsement market pegged at approximately Rs 10 billion, CelebTrack aims to trail celebrity perceptions amongst masses that would help advertisers choose the right brand fit for their products and services.

According to Hansa Research MD Ashok Das, the research was conducted on the basis of five parameters - 'popularity', 'persuasive power', 'image attributes (personality)', 'media presence' and 'over exposure'.

Says Das, "The second round of the bi-annual study was conducted over a period of six months starting April 2009, across 39 cities with 12,000-plus respondents. Approximately 400 celebrities from the national, regional and local favourite list were shortlisted from the arena of cine entertainment, cricket, other sports, music and television."

The joint body has also performed a study for the southern region to find that Dhoni, Aishwarya and SRK top the favourite chart in Karnataka.

"Currently, we have nine clients on board. They are Tata Indicom, Pepsico, ING Vysya, Cadbury, Airtel, Vodafone, Hindustan Unilever, 9Wins, United Spirits and Pepsi," adds Hansa Research associate VP Vineet Sodhani.

The study will be available to consumers on a subscription basis, the price of which stays at Rs 1.08 million.

SHAHRUKH JUST WRAPPED UP THE SHOOTING OF MY NAME IS KHAN

2009-09-30T23:46:00.000-07:00

It all began as a rumor that Shahrukh Khan, Kajol and Karan Johar would be working together again. Then we got word that this dream team was indeed working on a project called My Name is Khan. We learned that it was not your average masala film and that it was set in the after math of 9/11. In December of 2008, the film went to the floor and though we know a bit more about it, the story is still very much under wraps.

Shahrukh said in an interview with TOI that, "My Name Is Khan is the most special film for both Karan Johar and me. And unlike the rumors, it's not about terrorism, or 9/11. It's about a relationship between two people, between an individual and the State, and between an individual and the country. In short, there the three important components: love story, Islam and a mild form of autism, which forms the core of MNIK."

In what is said to be one of his most challenging roles, Shahrukh plays a man with Asperger syndrome, which is a mild form of autism. According to autism.about.com, "People with AS develop language normally, but often have difficulty with social interactions, fine and gross motor coordination, and eye contact. They may be extremely passionate about just one or two topics, with little patience for small talk. They also may struggle to handle normal daily activities, such as organizing time, managing conflict, or even facing the sensory overload presented by malls and grocery stores." In the film, Shahrukh is suspected of being a terrorists after the 9/11 attacks not only because of his disease but also because of his name. Kajol plays his wife in the film.

In an earlier interview with Subhash K Jha, Karan Johar said of SRK's performance, "Time and again I'm blown away by Shahrukh. At times I wonder how can he bring so many variations in his character when he already has so much on his plate. He has done monumental research on his autistic character in the film. I was zapped by how much he knew about the subject. And he brought all the knowledge on the sets without any strain. He had written reams of notes on how he wanted to interpret his character. And for him it was no big deal. I think he's ready to direct a film. He will be outstanding at it. His understanding of human nature and emotions can never be matched by me."

We can now report that after months of long and hard work Shahrukh Khan has finished his shooting schedule for My Name is Khan and the director still has nothing but praise for the actors performance. KJo wrote on the social site Twitter, "Shahrukh just wrapped on MNIK... He has been so amazing through the shoot... He deserves every bit of his legendary status!!"
Source: bollyspice

Shah Rukh shoots in neck-deep water

2009-09-24T08:08:00.001-07:00

What is wet, a wee-bit-wrinkled and a superstar? Not ‘Jumbo’ like we all thought; but our very own Shah Rukh Khan.
At a set put up in Film City for My Name Is Khan, SRK was required to stay in neck-deep water for two days — in and out — and you know how the skin becomes when you’ve stayed in water for too long.

A li’l bit wrinkly. But SRK didn’t complain one bit. In fact, he was soon being called Mr Mermaid (in whispers, of course) around the sets. And even if he heard, he couldn’t get madder than a ‘wet’ hen (pun unintended); so, he laughed along with the unit at his watery get-up.

SRK walks over to Akshay

2009-09-24T08:03:00.001-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan have forgotten all

Shahrukh Khan More Pics

their differences about who is the No 1 star in Bollywood. Yesterday, they were seen together at Film City where Akshay was shooting for Blue while SRK was shooting an ad film.

Interestingly, it was SRK who took the initiative to meet Akshay by suddenly landing up on the sets of Blue. Akshay, of course, was pleasantly surprised by this unexpected visit from SRK.

A source present on the sets of the film said, “SRK walked in on the sets of Blue yesterday afternoon to meet Akshay. SRK was shooting nearby on floor no 12 for an ad film when he heard that Akshay was shooting on floor no 1 for Blue. There were some media persons who were present on the sets of Blue.

They were surprised to suddenly see SRK on the sets of Akshay’s film. As soon as he heard about SRK’s visit, Akshay came out of his vanity van to greet him. Their body language was very friendly.

The two stars chatted inside the vanity van for 20 minutes. They have been discussing the possibility of a joint venture. Earlier too they had discussed the possibility of doing a film together at Preity Zinta’s birthday party. Now they have taken their discussion a step ahead. The film will be jointly produced by SRK’s production company Red Chillies and Akshay’s Hari Om Productions.”

According to the source, both are keen to make a film together and they will be meeting again soon to take things further. “Akshay and SRK know that it will be nothing short of a dream cast if they are seen together in a film made by them,” said the source.

Shah Rukh Khan´s Red Chillies, With TERI Launches ‘Lighting A Billion Lives’

2009-09-13T06:28:00.000-07:00

Red Chillies in association with TERI (The Energy and Resource Institute) recently sponsored the launch of the ‘Lighting a Billion Lives’ campaign in five remote villages namely Jadapal, Tarajodi and Ahirajpur villages in Orissa and Panchpadi and Bhanwata villages in Rajasthan. The majority portions of these villages were un-electrified and used kerosene as their source of energy. As a part of the campaign solar lanterns are begin introduced in these villages.

The implementation of this project will be done by the end of April. Once the implementation process is completed, updates will follow in a month's time.

The implementation of the campaign was also helped by NGOs such as Society for People’s Awareness and Rural Development Action (SPARDA) and Forum for Integrated Development and Research (FIDR) in Orissa and Humana People to People India in Rajasthan. Red Chillies is proud to bring smiles and touch lives through this initiative.

SRK, an honorary professor now?

2009-09-13T06:26:00.001-07:00

After getting an honorary doctorate, Shah Rukh Khan might soon be on his way to being an honorary professor too!

Routes to Roots, the NGO that got him the honorary doctor’s degree in arts and culture from Britain’s University of Bedfordshire, is now planning to get the actor a professorship from the Coventry University in UK.

The secretary of Routes to Roots, Rakesh Gupta, confirming that this honour will be conferred upon SRK “very soon”, said, “Shah Rukh has done a lot for charity and helping people out. There are some villages in Rajasthan, Orissa, etc., which have got electricity because of SRK. People in these villages don’t even know SRK, because they don’t see many movies. Secondly, the electrification of the village is by alternative sources of energy. So, while it’s good for the human beings, it’s also good for nature.”

SRK fan Ayesha Takia won’t wash hands!

2009-09-10T09:38:00.002-07:00

SRK fan Ayesha Takia won’t wash hands!

Read on to find out why.

The actress was at “an award function dedicated to make up and hair”, where she bumped into the star. She posts online, “At this same function I shook Shah Rukh Khan’s hand to say hi and I dont think I ever wanna wash my hand again!”

SRK practices autism at home

2009-09-10T09:38:00.001-07:00

Before Shah Rukh Khan played the autistic character in My Name Is Khan, Karan Johar met Londoner Chris Aston who suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome and his wife Maxine, who wrote a book on how to cope with a spouse suffering from the disease.

Says Karan, “Shibani and I met the couple. They were gracious enough to meet us in London. And that couple’s relationship became the basis of Rizwan and Mandira’s relationsip in My Name Is Khan. At its core level this film is a love story.”

Continues Karan, “My writer Shibani Bhatija researched extensively on various aspects of an autistic disorder and contacted the various National Autistic Centres. Shibani and I personally met a lot of autistic people, took notes went to u U-Tube. Then Shah Shah Rukh did his own research.”

Karan admits this has been the most difficult film of his career. “It has taken its toll on me and Shah Rukh. It’s true Shah Rukh remained in character as Rizwan Khan even at home. At home in his body language he’s always Rizwan. I see him doing it all the time. I don’t think he has got out of it. Even when he’s with his children at home.”

Karan cuts down the theory that Shah Rukh’s disorder is inspired from Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump. “It’s not Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump at all. That was a totally different strain of autism. It’s nearer to Dustin Hoffman in Rain Man, though still very different. It’s what we call high-functional autism. You can have a regular life, be married, have children. But the syndrome does convey a fair amount of quirks and eccentricities. But his character is not essentially neuro-typical. The film has made me understand human behaviour and how to be compassionate and humane.”The film has sapped Karan’s energies. He needs to take a break. “I need to go away for a month. I don’t think it will happen. But no harm in dreaming.”

SHAHRUKH DOES THE LONGEST EVE GUEST APPEARANCE IN DULHA MIL GAYA

2009-08-29T21:23:00.000-07:00

Mumbai: Bollywood’s King Khan is known to do things differently and looks like he followed that very principle when he signed on the dotted line to do a guest appearance in Viveck Vaswani’s ‘Dulha Mil Gaya’. The actor will reportedly be seen in, perhaps, the longest guest appearance ever in the history of Indian cinema.

According to reports, Shah Rukh, who was initially asked to do a guest appearance in ‘Dulha Mil Gaya’ ended up doing almost an hour long role in the same, making his part in the flick - the longest guest appearance by any star in a Bollywood film.

There have been reports in the past that have indicated towards SRK being miffed with Vaswani in context to his ever increasing role in the film in question since Khan had signed the flick in lieu of his friendship with Vaswani without realising that it could become a never ending thing for him.

In the meanwhile, Viveck Vaswani has refuted the reports of SRK being unhappy with him and to clarify the same. He said, “We have not added or subtracted any scenes with SRK. We have shot exactly what was narrated to him. He has about 17 scenes and three songs, and among the three, one is his entry sequence. We still have to shoot the music video with him with the entire cast. However, ‘Dulha Mil Gaya’ is not a professional assignment for SRK. He has done it as a favour to a friend, hence he is getting billed in a guest appearance as that’s the ethical thing to do. Had he charged me, then the equation would have been that of a producer and actor.”

Well, for now we can perhaps just wait and watch for the flick to release or Shah Rukh to open up on the same.

8 siple reasons for why we should believe srk about newark airport incident

2009-08-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

Now that we've stopped breathing fire and yelling everyone who opposes our point of view on actor Shah Rukh Khan's detention in Newark, here's my take on the matter.

1. Vivek Oberoi may need publicity. SRK certainly doesn't. He's big in India. And he's certainly big overseas. If you look at the last few decades of Bollywood's overseas box office figures, thanks to Karan Johar and the Yash Raj slew of films, SRK is our biggest star ever in the US.

2. SRK rarely wears his Muslim identity on his sleeve. He has repeatedly said he stands for young, educated India, more than for any single community. SRK is the poster boy of Consumer India, not Muslim India. That is why, even at Newark, SRK never used the word Muslim. I think he intentionally avoided it. All of Bollywood's three Khans are educated, liberal Muslims. They don't want to be in a situation where they are made the poster boys of right wing groups who believe the US hates all Muslims.

3. Of course, Muslims from all countries have been discriminated against in US airports. There's enough documentation to prove this. And personally, I don't believe that random checks at airports are really random. Random checks, I would think, are done randomely, but within certain parameters that constitute a high risk group.

4 SRK's film My Name Is Khan doesn't release till next year anyway. Why would he start the publicity blitz now?

5. I can understand if they didn't recognize him in Minnesota or Milwaukee (altho, when we travelled the world last year, they had heard of him in Machu Pichu too). But this was Newark, the queen of all Little Indias in the US. You can smell the curry in the air from the neighbouring states. Half the airport was probably full of Indians and Pakistanis. Even if the boys who detained him hadn't heard of Bollywood, there were zillions of people in their vicinity who would have seen all of SRK's films. Detain him sure, but why would it take so long to ascertain his identity? Doesn't homeland security have access to Google?

6. SRK and the underworld? Please, I think you're mistaking him for Sanjay Dutt now.

7. SRK said he was travelling with around 10 or so people and all their 22 or so bags went missing. Yet none of them were detained. I believe him. He has a better track record than the US government anyway.

8. If this is a publicity stunt, what has SRK got out of it pray explain to me?

SRK SHOUTS OUT

2009-08-22T23:35:00.000-07:00

SRK LASHES OUT AT US ADMINSITRATOR

2009-08-17T00:51:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: An apologetic US administration on Sunday asked actor SRK
if he would accept a "sorry" for his two-hour detention at Newark airport. Shahrukh is unrelenting. "I donâ€™t want an apology. I just want to go back to my country," he told TOI.

Within hours of his detention after his name flashed on the immigration officer's computer screen for a check, US authorities made a turn-around, saying the superstar was not detained because of his surname but his missing baggage.

Shahrukh said, "There were 20 other people in the same (detention) room. Was even their baggage missing? I was clearly told that my name flashed on their computer and therefore they had to question me."

He agreed that procedure had to be followed, "but the system is a very unfortunate one". "When you have issued me a visa and imprints of my fingers and my photograph are on it, I am sure it is there in your system. Why do I have go through the ordeal?"

The actor, who was never allowed to take his personal bodyguard to the US with him for lack of a work permit, often finds it difficult to move around in public places.

"I have a problem with my shoulder (he had a surgery on his shoulder) and if my bodyguard is around he becomes a great help. Unfortunately he does not get a visa. I could easily take him there on a tourist visa, but I don't believe in breaking the rules."

Shahrukh said he had been uncomfortable going to America after facing "problems" in the past. "Post-9/11, one could understand and one did not complain. But this time it was a bit too much. I have travelled to other countries. I never faced any problem in the UK where I am treated like a state guest. They escort me to the car."

I WAS DETAINED AS MY NAME IS KHAN

2009-08-15T04:37:00.000-07:00

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan has confirmed to CNN-IBN that he was detained at the Newark-New Jersey airport on Friday night when he was in transit to Chicago.Shah Rukh Khan spoke exclusively with CNN-IBN and admitted he was shocked at the behaviour of the immigration officials. “It was in Newark where I was detained for questioning. It was because they said my name was common to some name that popped up on the computer. They were asking me silly questions like if I knew someone in the US who could vouch for me, if I could give them numbers of people they could get in touch with,” he said.

“I had all the documents; they were asking me where I was going to be staying. I gave the name of FOX people with whom I had finalised a deal a few days ago as contacts. I kept on giving numbers. They wanted to know why I came here,” he said.

Shah Rukh said the officers wanted to check his baggage but since it had not arrived, he was taken to a room where other people were also waiting for a second check on their visa.

He said after he was stopped he sent messages to his home and his secretary and Congress MP Rajiv Shukla, who informed the Indian Mission which came to his rescue.
“I was taken to a room where many people were awaiting a secondary check on visa, most were Asians. In fact many officers were reluctantly vouching for me, asking for autographs and a Pakistani fan even said he knew who I was. But the officers said it was procedure and kept taking numbers from me. They told me you can’t use the phone in this area. I sent a message home and to my secretary and Rajiv Shukla. It took almost two hours. They did not take my fingerprints,” he said.

Asked if he felt angry, the actor said he felt bad “for the people in the room”.

“I did feel bad for a lot of people in that room, I know because I had an escort and someone would recognise me, I will get out. Others may face more trouble,” he said.

He also refered to ex President APJ Abdul Kalam’s frisking episode.

“I have extra security because of my name. I can handle this but when you have someone as respectable as an ex-president getting frisked, I am nobody,” he said.

Shah Rukh also admitted that while he didn’t mind going to shoot in the US, it was always an inconvenient journey for him. “I am glad my family was not there, this has happened to me earlier. I am a shy, scared traveler and I really have to hold back my sense of humour. It certainly does well for people whose names are known, for others its trouble. My guard was also denied a visa apparently because he too had a common name”.

Through the chat with CNN-IBN, Shah Rukh never lost his sense of humour and kept coming up with his characteristic quirky ones. “I think my face scares people, I will try and change the way I look,” he said. He also said his son Aryan asked if he had “been caught”. ” I told him, not yet son”.

SHAHRUKH KHAN DETAINED AND QUESTIONED AT US AIRPORT

2009-08-15T04:33:00.000-07:00

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan was detained for about two hours early Saturday morning (around 1am IST) at Newark airport in the US because his surname featured on the most common list. The actor, who is visiting the US to attend a South Asian event where he was the guest of honour was released after Congress MP Rajiv Shukla spoke to the authorities in the US and the Indian counsulate.

The actor was detained after his name flashed on the computer. He was asked several questions about the purpose of his visit. His hand baggage was checked. He was not allowed to even make a phone call for nearly an hour.

Speaking to TOI, the actor said: “I told them I was a movie star and had recently visited the country for the shooting of my film. Nothing seemed to convince the immigration officer. There were other immigration officers who even vouched for me but this particular officer did not listen to anyone. I even told them I had an invitation from the South Asian community and was there to attend an event.’’ Shah Rukh is to return to India on August 18.

Shukla, who came to the actor’s rescue condemned this act saying, “It is really not fair. Just because he has a common surname does not mean that every Muslim can be taken as a suspect or considered to be a terrorist. The Amercian authorities should adopt a methodology so that well-known names like Shahrukh Khan and APJ Abdul Kalam are not harassed like this. They should focus on getting the actual suspects.’’

DON 2 SHOOTING TO START IN EUROPE FROM AUGUST 2010

2009-08-14T05:23:00.000-07:00

Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani are back from their European sojourn. And yes, they have zeroed in on their places for shooting.

Sidhwani, who is the head honcho of Excel Entertainment said, “We selected a few places in London and then went to Ireland. Dublin is certainly on the cards. The locations are breath taking. After that we flew to Germany. We went to Frankfurt and Berlin. Our scouting certainly proved fruitful and we have decided on the places that we will be shooting.”

The earlier film by the same banner was shot in Malaysia. But this time they have decided to expand the criminal activities of the crime kingpin and perhaps that explains the location shift to Europe.

The cast of the sequel remains the same as the earlier one. Shah Rukh Khan is on the run with cops from 11 countries still chasing him and keeping him company is his moll, Priyanka Chopra.

Sidhwani has confirmed that the shooting for the film will start from August next year.

SRK AND SALLU AVOID FACE OFF AT TAURANI PARTY

2009-08-14T05:21:00.000-07:00

Producer Ramesh Taurani celebrated his 25TH wedding anniversary with a lavish bash at a Bandra hotel on Tuesday night. SRK, Salman Khan and Vivek Oberoi were at the same party but avoided bumping into each other by careful planning.

A source present at the party reveals, “Shah Rukh was the first one to arrive at the party, wish the couple and leave. Minutes after his exit, Salman arrived from the back door.

Source: Mid-Day

I'M UNSOCIAL BY NATURE

2009-08-14T05:18:00.000-07:00

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan may be known for his gift of gab and witty one liners during his press conferences but the actor states that he is unsocial by nature.

The ‘Baadshah of Bollywood’ says that he is not a member of social networking sites and does not blog frequently (apart from his posts on Kolkata Knight Riders website) because he does not consider himself socially capable.

“I don’t have social etiquettes. I am socially not very capable. I really cant do that ‘Hi how are you.. I am shopping here…here is a pic of my dog…’,” said the actor who was in the city recently to host a MBA quiz show organised by IIPM.

“My friends, Karan (director Karan Johar) and all are deeply into it but not me. I don’t even use a phone,” said Shah Rukh.

my name is KHAN press conference

2009-08-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

Shahrukh Khan set to launch Bipasha Basu as host in a show

2009-08-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

Click Image to Enlarge

Mumbai: "King Khan's" Red Chillies Entertainment production house is producing an American based reality show in India. The production house has signed Bipasha Basu for this as the host of the show.

The show will hit the floors from the next month. It is based on the concept of America's Next Top Model. A source reveals that the show will have a lot of women to participate who will compete for the title of the Best Model to get a chance to start their career in the modeling industry. Some minor changes will be made in the show as it is to the Indian audiences and the show will be called "The Female Model Hunt".

The source continued to say that this show in America has gained a lot of popularity and has one of the highest TRPs among the audiences. The American show was hosted by the former supermodel Tyra Banks.

In India, one will see model-turned-actress Bipasha Basu as the show host.

According to the sources, the show will have around nine to thirteen episodes and will start with 10-14 contestants. In each episode, one contestant will be eliminated. There will also be a bench of judges which is still under the process and they will be chosen from the modeling industry.

my name is khan first look is out

2009-08-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

SHAHRUKH KHAN TURNS QUIZMASTER AT IIPM

2009-08-05T08:52:00.000-07:00

It was a day of crazy excitement at IIPM. At 2 pm the badshah of bollywood Shahrukh entered the IIPM campus along with Prof.Arindam Chaudhuri. As the roof of the convertible Bentley opened and Shahrukh came out, the campus went berserk!

Placards and posters saying Shahrukh will you marry me, Shahrukh come with us to Switzerland etc gave him the kind of welcome that only he could have generated. After a brief but very witty interaction with the press, Shahrukh went straight for the quiz where more than a thousand students and guests were waiting with anticipation “Hi Shahrukh…,” shouted a 20-something young man, all clad in black, from one corner of the dimly lit quizzing hall, as the country's topmost entertainment icon walked in the quizzing arena, to host the inaugural Business and Marketing B-School Quizzing event at IIPM, New Delhi.
The audience broke into a series of applause with over 1000 IIPM students and guests chanting King Khan's name and shrieking at the top of their voice. Nothing could have been apt for an eventful start to one of the most challenging and exciting quizzing events, Dare'09, organized jointly by IIPM, the largest B-School on the planet along with 4Ps Business and Marketing, the most widely read Business and Marketing magazines in the country.

Shah Rukh Khan is back as quizmaster.

2009-08-03T08:40:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan is back as quizmaster. He will now be seen hosting a series of B-School quizzes for Arindam Chaudhary’s Indian Institute of Planning and Management. The actor addressed the media in the Capital on Saturday in candid SRK style speaking on just about everything from Sourav Ganguly to Emraan Hashmi

SRK-Ash jodi back together!

2009-07-31T19:35:00.000-07:00

Remember, they parted on a sour note after her hasty departure from his home production Chalte Chalte six years ago?

She had already canned a portion of the film when Salman Khan reportedly landed on the sets... and, well, the rest as they say is history.

Post that scene, SRK let Ash off the hook and took Rani Mukerji as his leading lady. And, since then, many big banners including Yashraj and Dharma failed to reunite the pair that created such magic in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas.

Subsequently, though the Bollywood Badshah wasn’t invited to the Ash-Abhishek wedding, King Khan and wife Gauri posed with the Bachchans for the shutterbugs at the Drona premiere last year. And more recently, at Karan Johar’s birthday party on May 25, the two couples — SRK and Gauri, Ash and Abhi — spent quality time together.

In the light of this thawing of relations, comes the news of cinematographer-director Rajiv Menon (whose Kandukonden Kandukonden in Tamil had Tabu and Ash) reuniting the SRK-Ash jodi. Menon is said to have flown to London to narrate a dramatic script (with Ash in mind) to Shah Rukh, which the actor liked.

At this point of his career, SRK is looking to do films that explore his dramatic intensity as in Devdas. He has no problems working with Ash and she with him. At Karan’s birthday, the Bachchans and Khans got along famously. Rajiv Menon’s film is being seen as a natural progression towards mending the bridges between two of the most powerful families of Bollywood.

Being SRK: The ultimate reality TV show

2009-07-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

It’s a job most Indians would die for — shadowing Shah Rukh Khan wherever he goes.

For the last two months, that’s exactly what a TV crew has been doing, following the country’s biggest star from South Africa to America to London to Mumbai — all for the making of a unique six-part series on the actor, to be telecast on lifestyle channel Discovery Travel & Living.

“It’s an inner world-outer world kind of documentary,” said Khan, speaking exclusively to HT. “Hopefully, the parts that people will get to see of me — at work and at other places — will shed some light on how films and film stars work and offer an insight into how I do things.”

Khan said he has got to know the crew quite well (“They have been very unobtrusive”).

For Discovery Travel & Living, this series will be one of the biggest global productions to come out of India and will be shown all over the world. “We haven’t yet decided when we’re going to telecast it or what it’s going to be called,” said Rahul Johri, senior vice-president and general manager – India, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific. “But definitely it will be by next year.”

No star has ever agreed to such scrutiny before. But in Khan’s case, it probably helped that his own production company, Red Chillies, is also involved in the venture. In that sense, this is the ultimate home production.

SHAHRUKH KHAN'S FAUJI SEQUEL TO AIR ON COLORS

2009-07-30T10:27:00.000-07:00

Contrary to earlier speculation where it was buzzed that the show will air on NDTV Imagine, Fauji is now all set to launch on Colors.

Col.Kapoor, who had conceptualised, produced and acted in the original series, has handed over the production reigns to Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Idiot Box.

When contacted now, Col. Kapoor said, “I can’t disclose anything to you now. All I can tell you now is that we’ve started working on ‘Fauji’. You please contact Red Chillies for all details.”

Sources though have it that Colors has liked the concept but have asked the producers to work more on the script.

SRK BEATS AAMIR IN DISTRIBUTION WAR

2009-07-30T10:25:00.000-07:00

Khan war is on! And SRK wins this time. While Aamir Khan’s blockbuster Ghajini’s global distribution rights were sold SRKfor Rs 90 crore, Shah Rukh Khan’s My Name is Khan is getting a 100-crore deal from Fox Star Studios.

This is the highest price paid by a distributor for any Bollywood film ever. In a way, My Name is Khan is already a hit even before hitting the theatres as the cost of the film is estimated to be around Rs 50 crore.

SRK IN THE PRIME MINSTER OF MALYASIA'S BIRTHDAY PARTY

2009-07-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan air-dashed quietly into Mumbai from his vacation in London and even before B-Town got a whiff of his presence, the Badshah had taken a flight out to Kuala Lumpur.

Why Kuala Lumpur? Because he was the guest of honour at the birthday celebrations of Prime Minister Datukshri Najib Tun Razak of Malaysia on Saturday.

Speaking to BT from Malaysia, SRK said, “The Prime Minister and his wife Datinshri Rosamah were very kind to me when I shot Don here. As a friend, I was invited to spend an evening with them.’’

In 2008, Shah Rukh was conferred the Malaysian title of Datuk — equivalent to a British knighthood. He is the first foreign actor to have been given this honour. This is the first time he is visiting that nation since his ‘Datukship’. “It made me feel special and it also provided me an opportunity to carry on a relationship with a country that is culturally close to ours,’’ said SRK.

Apparently, passions ran high at the birthday celebrations and SRK sang a bit of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai “because there are still some great fans of the film who wished this”.

IM RAN MAINTAINS CORDIAL RELATIONS WITH SRK

2009-07-28T08:44:00.001-07:00

Despite being aware of the cold relationship his Aamir mamu shares with superstar Shah Rukh, actor Imran Khan says that he shares a very cordial bond with the King Khan.

Imran doesn’t seem to care about their attempts of lashing out at each other vying for the top spot in the industry, as he admits that he wants to maintain a good equation with SRK.

Imran says, “SRK and I belong to the same industry and my relationship with him is just as normal as it can be with anyone. He has been very cordial to me, regardless of what has been written about him and Aamir. I know that between the two everything`s fine.”

Ganguly back as KKR captain

2009-07-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

Sourav Ganguly will be back as the Kolkata Knight Riders captain for season III of the Indian Premier League.

New Zealand capatin Brendon McCullum, who had led the Knight Riders side in South Africa during the IPL season 2, will be unavailable for the next season of the cash-rich league due to national duties.

Hence, retired Indian captain Ganguly is all set to make another comeback as the skipper of the IPL team.

According to sources, Ganguly and Knight Riders franchisee owner Shah Rukh Khan have discussed about the captaincy issue in London.
Earlier, on Friday, Ganguly took pot shots at the BCCI, saying its rules were not the same for all cricketers.

To a query whether he could have served the Indian team well had he continued to play at the top level like Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar, Ganguly told the Begnali television channel, "Yes, I had the ability. Had I played, I would have performed. But the rules are not the same for everyone."

Ganguly retired from international cricket after the home series against Australia late last year.

Shahrukh plays father to a teenager

2009-07-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

Shahrukh Khan had essayed the role of a father in ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ to a eight yr old girl child and now he has gone a few steps ahead by playing the role of a father to a teenager in Karan Johar’s ‘My Name Is Khan’ and also in Anubhav Sinha’s 'Ra1'. Shahrukh Khan has no qualm in playing the father of a grown up child and accepted the role without any second thought.

Confirms Karan, "Yes, Shah Rukh is playing father to a teenager in MNIK. It was never an issue for either Shah Rukh or me. But then why should it be? His son Aryan is almost 11. In my first film, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, when Shah Rukh was 30, he played a college student! Actors should not worry about these things. I don't think they should allow these aspects to interfere in accepting roles based on such things."

In the film, Shahrukh Khan plays the character of Rizwan who is suspected to be a terrorist. Kajol plays the role of a Hindu single mother Mandira with whom Rizwan falls in love.

Shah Rukh Khan’s “Main Hoo Na” in Telugu

2009-07-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

Mumbai: Now Telugu audiences would be able to see Shah Rukh Khan’s Bollywood flick Main Hoo Na in their won language.

The movie was remade in Tamil as Aegan with Ajith as the hero. The film fortunately for Ajith turned out to be a hit.

Now that film is being dubbed in Telugu and is being released soon. Mallika I Love You (That is what it is being called) has Nayantara as the heroine and upcoming actress Pia plays an important role.

Now, one is not sure if the film would work here. Main Hoo Na is a tried and tested film which has been watched by millions on TV also.

SHAHRUKH KHAN BUYS 20 MILLION POUND FLAT IN LONDON

2009-07-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan becomes proud owner of a crazily expensive property on a foreign shore. The superstar has ended up buying the 20 million pounds apartment in Central London in the Park Lane area.

As per the sources, Shah Rukh was eyeing this apartment in London’s plush Park Lane since quite some time now. After going through many choices both him and wife Gauri ended up liking this particular place. But given its very high cost they took some time before taking the final decision.

Finally as he went there this time with his kids, he decided to lock it forever.

shahrukh khan receives doctorate from bedfordshire university

2009-07-12T02:07:00.001-07:00

Best friend ke liye kucch bhi karega. Arjun Rampal

2009-07-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

Best friend ke liye kucch bhi karega. Arjun Rampal, who was prepared for a grand launch of his restaurant Lap in Delhi on July 15, postponed the
launch to mid-August because his best friend Shah Rukh Khan is out of the country till the end of this month.

A source said, “Arjun and SRK are extremely close and Arjun makes sure he is present at all parties thrown by SRK. The two have been good friends ever since they bonded on the sets of Farhan Akhtar’s Don in 2006. This time when Arjun was throwing a party, he wanted SRK to attend it. But, SRK is currently shooting in San Francisco for My Name is Khan and is later going to London with wife Gauri and kids for a three-week holiday. He’ll be back in India only by the end of July. SRK told Arjun that he’ll be free to attend the launch only in August and hence Arjun postponed the launch of his restaurant.”

Our source from the restaurant confirmed and said, “The launch will happen some time around August 20.” Lap is in collaboration with restaurateur AD Singh and is designed by Sandeep Khosla of Abu-Sandeep duo.

SALMAN KHAN ACKNOWLEDGES SRK ON HIS SHOW DUS KA DUM

2009-07-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

A pro-SRK statement on Salman's show? Believe it. Recently Riteish Deshmukh was on 10 Ka Dum, and for the first time after the Salman-Shah Rukh fight the host actually acknowledged the other Khan on his show. Riteish stopped after winning Rs 10 lakh and gave away the money to Salman's Being Human foundation.

When Sallu asked Riteish who his favourite actor was, the former said SRK. The host, without blinking an eye, agreed about SRK being a good actor.

Salman Khan and Riteish Deshmukh
Too much fun

Says Ritiesh, "Govinda, David Dhawan and I went together on the sets of 10KD and we have never had so much fun! We got along so well that we forgot there were cameras around."

He confirms that when Salman asked him about his favourite actor, he mentioned SRK, "I didn't get any negative vibes about Shah Rukh from Salman on the show. He was very cool and dignified and didn't pass any snide remarks about him. In fact, Salman spoke highly about SRK and his work."

Riteish, who had gone to promote his next release Do Knot Disturb, says despite being so close to Shah Rukh, Salman and he share a cordial and warm relationship. "He pulls my leg whenever we meet. I imitated Salman too on the show. I looked at him the way he does with the contestants and said in his voice, 'Salman, mere saath nahi khela toh kya khelaâ¦!' He took it in the right spirit."

Copying Kat

Riteish, who is known as a brilliant mimic, even copied Salman's girlfriend Katrina Kaif's dance steps from Race. He laughs, "It was an impromptu dance which Salman took very sportingly and even complimented me. He started laughing when I started dancing! They started playing the song 'Touch Me, Touch Me, Zara Zara Kiss Me and I knew the steps well I had done it at a recent award event too."

Even Govinda was a laugh riot he adds, "Though he's known to be late for events Govinda surprised us all by coming and getting ready before all of us. Salman made us do a scene from Do Knot Disturb, which had everyone in splits. I have never enjoyed myself so much. Salman is an extraordinary host very casual, chilled out and unpretentious it's almost as if we were sitting in his living room and doing the show!"

it's final HAPPY NEW YEAR shooting to start by the end of this year !

2009-06-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

Farah Khan is delighted that she will be enjoying the company of her good friends Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar in San Shahrukh Khan Francisco.

She left Mumbai last night. SRK has a bigger reason to look forward to her visit — he has been waiting to read the script of Farah's next, Happy New Year. Her star friend has patiently waited for Farah to work on it for over a year.

Farah will be handing over the script of the first half of her forthcoming film, Happy New Year, to Shah Rukh. Farah also hopes to zero in on some technicians for her film while she is there.

So who will look after her triplets — Anya, Diva and Czar, when she is away? Farah replied, “That won’t be a problem. Shirish (Farah’s husband) is very co-operative. Moreover, I am not going for too long. I will be back in 5-6 days.”

After her return, Farah will start working on the script of the second half of Happy New Year. “It’s final now. We start shooting by end of this year,” she said