Sabyasachi Chakavarty, Jayjit Banerjee, Bhaswar and Falguni Chatterjee and others stormed Zee Bangla Tumi Je Amar.

Sabyasachi Chakravarty, Jayjit, Bhaswar and others stormed Zee Bangla Tumi Je Amar. On 25th February, 2014, Prasenjit Chatterjee and Rachana Banerjee invited Sabyasachi Chakravarty and his wife Mithu Chakravarty, Falguni Chatterjee and his wife Rumpa Chatterjee (mother of actor Abir Chatterjee), Jayjit Banerjee and his wife, and Bhaswar Chatterjee and his wife Nabamita Chatterjee in the show Zee Bangla Tumi Je Amar. In the first round, the couples were asked to answer seven questions at the time of “shubho drishti”, with the eye-lashes not falling during answering. Each time the eye-lashes fell, marks were reducted. Sabyasachi Chakravarty and Mithu Chakravarty got the maximum points in that round and won prizes. In the second round, Falguni Chatterjee and Rumpa Chatterjee were shown three film clippings. In one clipping the scene was from film Hospital, where Suchitra Sen and Ashok Kumar were shown riding on a boat and Geeta Dutt’s song “ei shundor sharnali shondha” was sung. In the second clipping the scene was from the film Saptapadi, where Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen were shown driving on a motor-bike and Hemanta Mukherjee and Sandhya Mukherjee’s song “ei poth Jodi na shesh hoy tobe kemon hoto tumi boloto” was on. In the third clipping the scene was from the film Shankhabela, where Uttam Kumar and Madhabi Mukherjee were riding a car and Lata Mangeshkar’s song “aaj mon cheyeche ami hariye jabo” was on. Falguni Chatterjee was asked which of the vehicles he would have preferred if he had the option to ride with his wife. He said it was the boat in the river. Sabyasachi Chakravarty was asked if Mithu Chakravarty would have been given the option of offering him the three food items orange juice, coconut water and milk which one she would have offered. Sabyasachi Chakravarty said it was orange juice but Mithu Chakravarty said coconut. In the third round, the celebrities were asked to get inside a bhool-bhoolaiya and find a gold ornament and bring it for the wife. Sabyasachi Chakravarty and Jayjit Banerjee got stuck in a room, where Palash Adhikari with white wig asked them questions from the character of mother-in-law. Then they had to dance with cheer leaders and had to do snake dance. Bhaskar Chatterjee did it in the shortest time. At the end of the show, Sabyasachi Chakravarty and Mithu Chakravarty gave maximum number of answers and got the maximum number of prizes. Rachana Banerjee and Prasenjit Chatterjee anchored the program very well.

Happy birthday to Beauty – Queen Madhubala. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to legendary actress and Beauty Queen Madhubala on 14th February, 2014. She had rightly been born on Valentine’s Day, the day when human beings show that love to their most beloved persons. She had glorified bollywood films of the 40s, 50s and 60s. She stormed bollywood with her spooky character in the film Mahal in 1947. The song “ayega anewala” sung by Lata Mangeshkar and composed by Khemchand Prakash was a milestone in Indian cinema. Lata rose to fame with that song. The film became extremely successful. In the 40s, she acted in a number of films opposite Raj Kapoor including Neel Kamal, Chitor Bijay, etc. Her films opposite Dilip Kumar like Amar and Sangdil became big hits. She came to number one position with the film Mr. and Mrs 55 opposite Gurudutt. She acted in the role of a rich unmarried girl in the film who lived under the guardianship of Lalita Power. All the songs in the film composed by OP Nayyar became super hit including “thandi hawa”, “jane kaha mera”, etc. Her films opposite Bharat Bhushan became super hit one after the other including Phagun, Barsaat Ki Raat. Barsaat Ki Raat was a musical blockbuster where Roshanlal Nagrath proved his excellence as composed in ghazals like “zindagi bhar nahi bhulegi wo barsaat ki raat”, qawallies like “na to karwanki talash hai na humsafar ki talash hai”. She gave excellent lips in the songs of the films. Her beauty in Raj Kapoor’s film Do Ustad amazed the viewers. The songs in the film composed by OP Nayyar also became super hit including “nazron ke teer mare kas kas kas”, “tu ladki mai ladka”, etc, picturised on Madhubala and Raj Kapoor. Mughal-i-Azam was probably the best film of her career in the role of Anarkali. The film had been remade in colour. K Asif spend huge money for making the historical film and all the performers in the film including Madhubala, Dilip Kumar, Prithviraj Kapoor, Durga Khote gave their best. Naushad’s everlasting music still haunts the audience even today. The relationship of Salim and Anarkali was almost a poetry picturized in celluloid. Due to the romantic relationship of Dilip Kumar and Madhubala, at the end of the film, K. Asif did not show that Anarkali was killed by being buried alive in a dungeon and she was brought out of the wall. Madhubala probably acted opposite all the giants of bollywood industry including Pradeep Kumar in the film Rajhath, Shammi Kapoor in the film Boy Friend, Sunil Dutt in the film Jwala, Dev Anand in Kala Pani, Kishore Kumar in the film Chalti Ka Naam Gari, Ashok Kumar in Howrah Bridge. She gave lips in the songs of all the leading singers of the country, including Lata Mangeshkar, Geeta Dutt, Samshad Begum and others. It is difficult to highlight the contribution of beauty queen Madhubala in a small article who is considered the greatest legend ever along with Meena Kumari and Nargis. The viewers pay their tribute to the romantic actress who died more than 40 years ago and left her immortal presence felt through her performances in bollywood films.

Happy birthday to Randhir Kapoor.

Happy birthday to Randhir Kapoor. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Randhir Kapoor on 15th February, 2014. He being the eldest son of Showman Raj Kapoor and grandson of Prithviraj Kapoor had great legacy to carry forward. He acted in landmark films in the 70s and later on settled down as a director and producer. He acted in the film Kal Aaj Aur Kal, in early 70s along with Raj Kapoor and Prithviraj Kapoor. The three generations of the Kapoor generation was shown together in the film and the generation gap between Prithviraj Kapoor, Raj Kapoor and Randhir Kapoor was also shown. Babita was the heroine in the film who was later married by Randhir Kapoor. Shankar Jaikishan composed the music of the film and it became big hit. Randhir Kapoor’s film Jawani Diwani, opposite Jaya Bacchan became very successful. Randhir Kapoor played the role of reckless young generation of the early 70s. The music of RD Burman brought a new trend of songs which added attraction in the film. The other successful films of Randhir Kapoor included Rampur Ka Laxman with Rekha, Kasme Wade with Big B and Rakhee. In the mid-70s he again acted in a film under RK Production titled Dharam Karam. He was the son of Raj Kapoor who was interchanged during his birth. Prem Nath’s son lived with Raj Kapoor while Raj Kapoor’s son lived with Prem Nath. Raj Kapoor was a noted singer in the film. Whenever he tried to teach music to his son, he never learned anything. While Randhir Kapoor picked up his tune “ek din bik jayega mati ke mor” sung by Mukesh and composed by RD Burman. At the end of the film the identity of the two sons were unfolded and it was proved that the genetic origin determined the characteristics of human beings more than the surrounding where they were brought up. In the 80s, Randhir Kapoor added weight and after partial success in films like Chacha Bhatija, Biwi O Biwi, which switched on to direction and production of films. Randhir Kapoor completed the incomplete project of Raj Kapoor under RK Production titled Henna. It was a cross-border love story, where the affair between Zeba Bakhtiar and Rishi Kapoor were portrayed. The manner in which Henna helped Rishi Kapoor to get back to India against all the odds made the film very interesting. The music of Ravindra Jain in the film was excellent including Lata’s songs “bedardi tere balma”. Randhir Kapoor directed the film Prem Granth under RK Production with Rishi Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit in the early 90s. The film was related to their affair and the manner in which Madhuri Dixit was sexually assaulted by a person and the consequences of such crime. Shammi Kapoor, Om Puri and Anupam Kher acted well in their respective roles in the film. Randhir Kapoor acted in contemporary films like Armaan. In 2012, Randhir Kapoor did a good job in the film Housefull 2, where he played the role of the brother of Rishi Kapoor. The film did business of more than 100 crores. Randhir Kapoor’s daughters Kareena Kapoor and Karishma Kapoor are busy acting in mainstream cinema in bollywood. The viewers expect Randhir Kapoor to continue making meaningful films under RK Production, the Banner which had nurtured the film culture in India over 60 years.

Happy birthday to Joy Mukherjee.

On the death anniversary of Joy Mukherjee, his deadly combination with Rafi would be remembered for generations. The viewers of Bollywood films wish happy birthday to Joy Mukherjee on 24th February, 2014. Veteran actor Joy Mukherjee died on 9th March, 2012. He was the son of noted filmmaker Sasadhar Mukherjee and Sati Debi. Sasadhar Mukherjee was the co-founder of Filmalaya Studios. Joy Mukherjee stormed bollywood films with his debut in the film Love in Simla in 1960. It was directed by RK Nayyar. Iqbal Qureshi composed the music of the film. From that time the everlasting combination of Joy Mukherjee with Mohammad Rafi stormed bollywood music for the next 10 years. After acting in the films Umeed and Hum Hindustani, Joy Mukherjee stormed bollywood with the film Ek Musafir Ek Haseena in 1962. Raj Khosla directed the film. The magic of OP Nayyar with Rafi made the audience spellbound. All the songs were masterpieces including “aap yuhi agar humse milte rahe”, “phir tere shahar me mitne ko chala aya hoon”, “humko tumhare ishqne kya kya bana diya”, “bahut shukhriya bari meherbani”, “mujhe dekhkar aapka muskurana”, to name a few. The songs just intoxicated the audience. Ek Musafir Ek Haseena the second biggest hit film of 1962. The Joy Mukherjee, OP Nayyar and Rafi magic continued in the film Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon in 1963. It was produced and directed by Nasir Hussain. Again the songs were masterpieces including “zulf ke chayon me chehereka ujala lekar”, “nazneen bara rangeen hai wada tera”, “banda parwar thamlo jigar”, “lakhon hai nigahon me”, “anchal me saja lena kaliyan”, “aji kibla mohe tarma”, to name a few. It was par excellence. Probably OP Nayyar and Rafi combination was at the zenith. The film ended up being the third biggest hit film of 1963. In 1964, Joy Mukherjee’s film Ziddi did great business. This time it was directed by Pramod Chakravarty. The music was composed by SD Burman. Rafi’s songs “janu kya mera dil ab kahan kho gaya”, “teri surat se nahi milti kisi ki surat”, “pyar ki manzil mast haseen” were all melodious songs and became superhit. Rafi Joy Mukherjee continued in the films Ishaara, Door Ki Awaaz and Ayo Pyar Karen. Joy Mukherjee again stormed bollywood in the film Love in Tokyo. Shankar Jaikishan’s composition of music in the film rocked bollywood. Lata’s songs “sayonara sayonara”, “hume tum mil gaye humdum” was as popular as Rafi’s “Japan, love in Tokyo”, “aaja re aa zara aa”, “o mere shahekhuba”, and Manna Dey’s “mai tere pyar me bimar hun kya arz karun”. The westernized andaz of Rafi mesmerized the audience along with Japan’s exotic locations. Joy Mukherjee and Rafi again created magic in the film Shagird in 1967. This time Laxmikant Pyarellal stormed bollywood. Rafi’s songs “o bare miya diwane”, “o hai zara khafa khafa”, “duniya paagal hai” all created magic. Joy Mukherjee’s online chemistry with Saira Banu attracted the viewers. From Humsaya in 1968, gradually Joy Mukherjee’s box office popularity declined. OP Nayyar composed the music of the film and Rafi’s song “dil ki awaaz na sun” again became hit, but the film did not do great business. From that time onwards Joy Mukherjee gradually faded out of the industry. His later films like Ek Kali Muskai, Dil Aur Muhabbat, Dupatta, Ek Baar Muskurado did very ordinary business. Rafi sang notable songs in some of these films, but neither the compositions nor the songs did touch the souls of the audience in the same way, the way it did in Love in Tokyo. Joy Mukherjee had given lips in more than 200 songs of Mohammad Rafi. His songs and the films should be restored to remember the great combination of evergreen Mohammad Rafi with the romantic actor.

Vidya Balan and Farhan Akhtar stormed Zee Bangla Dadagiri Grand Finale.

Vidya Balan and Farhan Akhtar stormed Zee Bangla Dadagiri Grand Finale.

Vidya Balan and Farhan Akhar came to the Zee Bangla Dadagiri Grand Finale program on 22nd February, 2014. They came to promote their film Shaadi Ke Side Effects which is going to be released this Friday. Sourav Ganguly asked Vidya Balan how was her experience of acting in the film Kahaani which was fully shot in Kolkata. Vidya Balan said she considered Kolkata her second home. She was fond of Bengali culture. Everyone, from the director Sujoy Ghosh to the crew and team, showed love and respect to her. Bengali characters had given her fame also, because she rose to fame with the success of the film Parineeta. Sourav Ganguly asked her about the story of the film Shaadi Ke Side Effects. She said those who marry they will understand that the relationship of the husband and the wife is sweet. But there are differences and the film had shown the differences which was depicted by Farhan Akhtar and Vidya Balan. Farhan Akhtar said he had to go through a huge training for the film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. He made a great body and remained on instructive diet for the period of shooting of Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Sourav Ganguly asked him what was the secret of his versatility? Farhan Akhtar had been a great hero in the films Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobaara. He had directed super hit films like Don. He had sung brilliant songs in the film Rock On. He said that he had passion over the areas he had ventured into and loved his work. Prasenjit Chatterjee and Rachana Banerjee also came in the show to promote their next program in Zee Bangla Channel which is titled Tumi Je Amar. The program is related to married couples. At the end of the Finale North 24 Parganas ended up being champions. They won a number of prizes. Sourav Ganguly was brilliant from the beginning till the end of the show.

Happy birthday to Shahid Kapoor.

Happy birthday to Shahid Kapoor. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Shahid Kapoor, the successful romantic star on 25th February, 2014. He had acted in very successful films in the recent past, but for some reason or the other did not get the acknowledgement he deserved. In 2013 his film Phata Poster Nikla Hero did not do great business. It was released in August, 2013. But his other film R Rajkumar opposite Sonakhi Sinha did business of more than 70 crores. It was declared super hit. 2011 had not been a great year for Shahid Kapoor. He acted in his father Pankaj Kapoor’ film Mausam, but the film did not do great business. In 2012 he required a successful film to regain the stardom. His film Teri Meri Kahaani opposite Priyanka Chopra did not do good business. Sajid Wajid’s music in the film was impressive. All the songs were hit including “mukhtasar mulakat ki”, “jab se mere dil me uff” became super hit. But the film did mediocre business. He was on top of the world with the success of his film Kaminey opposite Priyanka Chopra few years back. His performance in the film Jab We Met almost pulled the film across the country. His decency and composure in the film was worth mentioning. Yet when the question of recognition did arise the entire credit was taken up by Kareena Kapoor. She received the filmfare award for the best actress for her performance in the film. Even Pritam who composed melodious songs in the film was unrewarded. Shahid Kapoor’s other successful films included Chup Chup Ke. For most part of the film he pretended to be a deaf and dumb person. He worked with Rajpal Yadav in the house of Om Puri and got associated with Kareena Kapoor. Later in the film his identity was disclosed. His performance in that film was also extraordinary. The other successful films of Shahid Kapoor include Kismat Connection with Vidya Balan, 36 China Town with Kareena Kapoor, to name a few. In 36 China Town, Shahid Kapoor along with Kareena Kapoor were suspected for murdering a woman in the house. The investigation was carried out by Akshay Khanna and later the servants of the house were found as the actual murderers. The film was serio-comic in nature with Paresh Rawal, Johnny Lever also contributing in respective roles. Shahid Kapoor had outstanding dancing skills. He exhibited it in films like Jab We Met, 36 China Town, etc. With serious competition in the bollywood industry Shahid Kapoor badly needs a big hit in the future to maintain his stardom. He had established himself as a romantic actor. He has to contribute well in action films, political films and other types of films in future. Besides he had been associated with Kareena Kapoor all along his career. He has to create a combination with other actresses in the bollywood industry as well to show his versatility. He has a bright future in bollywood industry. The viewers expect that his films in 2014 will also do good business.

Alpona Goswami, Sreela Majumdar and others stormed Zee Bangla Didi No. 1 Program.

Alpona Goswami, Sreela Majumdar and others stormed Zee Bangla Didi No. 1 Program.

Alpona Goswami, Sreela Majumdar, Sonali Gupta and Ratna Ghoshal stormed Zee Bangla Didi No. 1 Program on 21st February, 2014. Deboshree Roy invited them in Zee Bangla Didi No. 1 Program. Deboshree Roy asked Alpona Goswami about her experience in Bengali films. She said she had great experience of going and meeting Suchitra Sen and Uttam Kumar. Suchitra Sen invited her in her house and gave her food also. She was amazed at her beauty. She acted with Uttam Kumar in the film Dui Prithibi. She was amazed his appearance also. She presently stays in New York. She said Deboshree Roy is always afraid of cold, so when she went to New York she feared the cold when both of them went to see Statue of Liberty. Sreela Majumdar talked about her experience. She said Mrinal Sen’s wife Geeta Sen, saw her in a play. Then they selected her and she got the offer of acting in the award winning film Akaler Sandhane. She acted in 6 films of Mrinal Sen. That created fame and name. She got a role in Shyam Benegal’s film Mandi. Ratna Ghoshal talked about her experience. She said from an age of 8 years she started acting. She acted in many plays and films opposite veteran actor Johor Roy. Sonali Gupta talked about her father great director Dinen Gupta. Incidentally her mother Kajol Gupta was also successful actress acting in many landmark Bengali films like Agnissar, Basanta Bilap, etc. She also acted in award winning films like Prothom Protisruti. She said her parents did not want her to act in Bengali films. But a director liked her picture, and gave her role to act. At the end of the program, Sreela Majumdar answered maximum number of answers and became Didi No. 1. Deboshree Roy anchored the program very well with her sweet personality.

Happy birthday to Talat Mehmood

Happy birthday to Talat Mehmood. The listeners of bollywood music wish happy birthday to legendary singer Talat Mehmood on 24th February, 2014. He was a leading performer in bollywood films during the 40s, 50s and 60s. Along with Rafi, Mukesh and other leading singers of bollywood Talat Mehmood sang notable songs in the films of leading stars of bollywood. He rendered his voice for most of the actors of the bollywood during the 40s and 50s including Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Bharat Bhushan, and others. His landmark songs included “dil-e-nadan tujhe hua kya hai” composed by Ghulam Mohammad and picturised on Bharat Bhushan, in the film Mirza Ghalib in 1954, “koi nahi mera” composed by Shankar Jaikishan and picturised on Dilip Kumar in the film Daag in 1952, “mai dil hoon ek armaan bhara” picturised on Raj Kapoor in the film Anhonee in 1952, etc. He sang landmark songs for Dilip Kumar also in the films Footpath, Devdas, etc. All the leading composers of bollywood films of that age namely Naushad Ali, Shankar Jaikishan, Roshan Lal Nagrath, Madanmohan Kohli , OP Nayyar, Salil Choudhury, SD Burman and others used him in different films. His other landmark songs included “phir wohi sham” composed by Madanmohan and picturised on Bharat Bhushan in the film Jahan-ara released in 1964. Talat Mehmood acted in a number of films including Dil-e-Nadan opposite Shyama, Raftaar opposite Nadira, Waris opposite Suraiya, Ek Gaon Ki Kahani opposite Mala Sinha and also showed his acting talent in those films. He had been mainly associated with ghazals and soft romantic songs. His vibrating technique in rendition had charmed many listeners of the golden age. He also sang light songs for many composers. His other songs included “jalte hai jiske liye” composed by SD Burman in the film Sujata, “humse aya na gaya” composed by Madanmohan in the film Dekh Kabira Roya, “itna na mujhse tu pyar bara” composed by Salil Choudhury in the film Chaya, “aye mere dil kahin aur chal” composed by Shankar Jaikishan in the film Daag, to name a few.. Talat Mehmood had a number of basic discs in Bengali as well. His landmark songs included “chander eto alo” and “alote chayate” composed by Robin Chatterjee, “duti paakhi duti teere” composed by Kamal Dasgupta, etc. The sweetness of his voice was well appreciated by the Bengali listeners as well. His songs and films should be preserved and restored.

Happy birthday to Pooja Bhatt.

Happy birthday to Pooja Bhatt. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to sweet actress Pooja Bhatt on 24th February, 2014. She being the daughter of eminent director Mahesh Bhatt, had the task of proving herself in the early phase of her career. Her first film Daddy in 1989 itself created attention. It was directed by her father Mahesh Bhatt. She was in search of her alcoholic father Anupam Kher in the film. It was a great effort. Her next films Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahi with Aamir Khan, Sadak with Sanjay Dutt stormed bollywood in 1991. In all the films of Pooja Bhatt, the stories and the music touched the souls of the viewers. All the songs of Dil Hai ki Manta Nahi and Sadak like “dil hai ki manta nahi” or “tujhe apna bananeki” became big hit. She acted in a number of films in the 1990s including Tadipaar opposite Mithun Chakravarty, Phir Teri Kahaani Yaad Ayi, Angrakshak opposite Sunny Deol, etc. Her film Humdono opposite Rishi Kapoor and Nana Patekar was very impressive. She was also sublime in the films Prem Diwane, Satwaan Asmaan. In Satwaan Aasman she played the character of a cancer patient who died at the end of the film. She received National Award for best film on other social issues for her film Tamanna. Her other film Zakhm opposite Ajay Devgan touched the souls of cinegoers. Her film Border in 1997 was also a big hit. After late 1990s, Pooja Bhatt concentrated in film direction. She made impressive films like Holiday, Dhoka, Jism 2, etc. She also produced a number of these films. Her films should be restored for meaningful stories and melodious music.

Imon Chatterjee, Rahul Bardhan and others stormed Zee Bangla Dadagiri Program.

Imon Chatterjee, Rahul Bardhan and others stormed Zee Bangla Dadagiri Program. On 17th February, 2014, Sourav Ganguly invited celebrities in Zee Bangla Dadagiri Program with their husbands or wives. Some of the celebrities included Sumit Ganguly and his wife, Imon Chatterjee and his wife, Rahul Bardhan and his wife, great cook Shukla Mukherjee and her husband, Swaralipi Chatterjee and her husband. Sourav Ganguly asked the background of Imon Chatterjee’s wife. She said her background was Howrah, and her father had a transferable job. She travelled to China with her father. Imon Chatterjee sang song with his guitar. Swaralipi Chatterjee talked about a Food shop she opened with her husband. She named all the dishes in her shop in the name of Satyajit Ray’s Feluda stories. Incidentally Feluda, a fiction character and a detective, used to stay in Rajani Sen street. Sourav Ganguly asked Rahul Bardhan about his serial acting and film acting. He acted in the popular Bengali serial Ganshar Bibah, which was written by Bibhutibhushan Mukherjee. He played the character of Trilochan or Tilu. Shukla Mukherjee was considered kitchen queen at one time. She had written books relating to preparation of different dishes. Presently she also comes in Sudipa Mukherjee’s popular Bengali show Zee Bangla Rannaghar to teach new food dishes. Sourav Ganguly in the Bapi Bari Jaa round asked the question, which two Bengali celebrities recently won Padmashree Awards. The answer was Sabitri Chatterjee and Supriya Debi. In the slog over round, Imon Chatterjee answered the maximum number of questions. He also scored the fastest fifty and won the cash prize for scoring that point. The program ended with Imon Chatterjee’s song.

Tragedy King Dilip Kumar in his biography said Raj Kapoor was his friend, not rival.

Dilip Kumar had said Raj Kapoor was his friend. Great Dilip Kumar had written his biography recently. It has been published. The tragedy king had talked about the history relating to his performances in films. One of the great myths that Raj Kapoor was a great rival of Dilip Kumar had been broken in the biography. Both were born in Pakistan. Dilip Kumar’s father was a dry fruit seller. Dilip Kumar had said, Raj Kapoor was his school friend. Both of them started their acting career at almost the same period. While Dilip Kumar made his debut with Bollywood film Jowar Bhatta, Raj Kapoor was acting in Prithvi Theaters. The mutual love for each other and mutual admiration of each other had also been highlighted in the biography. Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar had remained the greatest legends of hindi cinema for the last 100 years. Ranbir Raj Kapoor, also known as Raj Kapoor, was the son of legendary actor Prithviraj Kapoor. Muhammad Yusuf Khan, also known as Dilip Kumar was the son of Fruit tycoon Lala Ghulam Sarwar. Raj Kapoor was born on 14th December, 1924, while Dilip Kumar was born on 11th December, 1922. They acted together only in one film titled Andaz in 1949, which was directed by Mehboob Khan. There were a lot of striking points of the two superstars who ruled bollywood films during the 40s, 50s and 60s. Raj Kapoor was awarded Padmabhushan in 1971, while Dilip Kumar was awarded Padmabhushan in 1991. Raj Kapoor was awarded Dadasaheb Phalke in 1987 and Dilip Kumar was awarded Dadasaheb Phalke award in 1994. In 1947, Raj Kapoor acted opposite Madhubala and Begum Para in the film Neel Kamal. In 1947, Dilip Kumar acted in the successful film Jugnu, although he started his career with the film Jwar Bhatta in 1944. While Raj Kapoor got the title of showman, with his projection of larger than life romantic stories in films like Barsaat, 1949, Awaara, 1951, Shree 420, 1955, Sangam, 1964, etc; Dilip Kumar got the title of Tragedy King with his projection of the sad personality in films like Devdaas, 1955, Musafir, 1957, Madhumati, 1958, Mughal –i-Azam, 1960, etc. Both the actors acted opposite leading actresses of the golden age including Nimmi, Nargis, Meena Kumari, Madhubala, Wahida Rehman, Vaijayantimala, to name a few, although Raj Kapoor acted in 17 films opposite Nargis, while Dilip Kumar acted in 7 films opposite Vaijayantimala. While Raj Kapoor at an age of 22 years married Krishna Kapoor at an age of 16 years who was his maternal cousin in 1944; Dilip Kumar at an age of 44 years married Saira Banu at an age of 22 years in 1966. Both Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar supported the Congress, but although Raj Kapoor did not join active politics, Dilip Kumar became Member of Rajya Sabha and also Sheriff of Mumbai. While Raj Kapoor had marathon combination with composer Shankar Jaikishan, lyricists Shailendra and Hasrat Jaipuri and singers Mukesh, Lata and Manna Dey, who worked with him in more than 15 films; Dilip Kumar had immortal bond with composed Naushad, lyricist Shakeel Badayani and singer Mohammad Rafi who had contributed in more than 15 films of the legend. While Raj Kapoor won filmfare awards in different categories including best actor, best director, best producer, etc; Dilip Kumar won the filmfare award for best actor for record 8 times. Raj Kapoor had died in 1988 and Dilip Kumar had retired from films after acting in the film Qila, many years ago. Their works should be preserved and restored.

Pran is remembered on his birthday.

Happy birthday to Pran. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Pran Sikand, the legendary actor on 12th February, 2014. He was one of indispensable personality in bollywood films without whom most of the films of the 50s and 60s could not be thought about. He also was a big star who was as popular as an antihero as the leading stars of 50s and 60s including Showman Raj Kapoor and Tragedy King Dilip Kumar. He died last year but actually did not leave the hearts of numerous admirers of Bollywood films. Pran had acted in more than 300 films in his career which spanned over 60 years. He was a notorious dacoit in Raj Kapoor’s Jis Desh Me Ganga Behti Hai, who was reformed and persuaded to surrender before the police at the end of the film. He hammered Dilip Kumar all along the film Dil Diya Dard Liya, not knowing his identity. It was later known that Dilip Kumar was the king of the princely estate after the locket in his body was discovered. Dilip Kumar forgave him even after knowing that his affair with Wahida Rehman never blossomed into marriage due to Pran only. Among romantic songs of Rafi and Lata like “sawan aye ya na aye”, “dilruba main ne tere”, “koi sagar dil ko behlata nahi”, Pran kept a balance with his villanish pursuits. In Ram Aur Shyam, Pran tortured one of the Dilip Kumars who played the role of his brother-in-law. When Dilip Kumar’s twin brother came to his wife he took revenge against the evil deeds of Pran. Both the sequences when Pran whipped Dilip Kumar and when Dilip Kumar whipped Pran remained sensational. The film was serio-comic in nature with Dilip Kumar playing a double role for the first time in Ram Aur Shyam. In the mid-60s, Pran changed his image by playing positive roles like the one he played in the film Upkar. In that film he played the role of a handicapped person but he was an observer who witnessed the good deeds of Manoj Kumar who was a farmer and the bad deeds of his own brother played by Prem Chopra. Pran’s lips in Manna Dey’s songs “kasme wade” is still remembered by cinematic audience today. Pran was sublime in most of the hit films of the 60s like Shammi Kapoor’s Raj Kumar, Kashmir Ki Kali, An Evening in Paris, etc., Joy Mukherjee’s Love in Tokyo, Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon, Biswajeet’s Mere Sanam, Rajender Kumar’s Ganwar, Raj Kumar’s Maryada, Manoj Kumar’s Gumnaam, to name a few. In the 70s he even matched himself with the action heroes of the other generation like Dharmender and Big B. His performance in Big B’s film Zanjeer in the role of a Pathan requires special mention. He gave excellent lips in Manna Dey’s song “yari hai imaan mera yaar mera zindagi” in the same film. In Amar Akbar Anthony, he was the father of Big B, Vinod Khanna and Rishi Kapoor and he faced the evil operations of Jeevan and his men all along the film. He kept his fitness to such an extent that in action sequences, he never looked out of place in a film where Big B, Vinod Khanna who were much younger than him showed their own skills. Pran continued his villainish performances in films of 80s including Dilip Kumar’s Duniya and Big B and Rajnikant’s Andha Kanoon. With notable actors coming in bollywood industry in the 80s like Amrish Puri, Danny, Paresh Rawal, Kader Khan, Anupam Kher, etc., Pran slowly faded away from the industry. By that time he had performed in more than 300 films. Viewers remember him for his unique style of dialogue delivery, unique mannerisms and fantastic body. His viewers pay respect to the old actor on his birthday who had already received lifetime achievement award from Filmfare for his unique contribution to bollywood cinema.

Happy birthday to Tina Munim.

Happy birthday to Tina Munim. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Tina Munim on 11th February, 2014. She is better known as Tina Ambani after marrying Anil Ambani who is one of Indian’s leading business magnets. She was discovered by Dev Anand and cast in the film Desh Pardesh in 1978. She also acted in the films Lootmaar and Manpasand. She was most successful opposite Rishi Kapoor, who was the greatest romantic actor in the late 70s and early 80s. Subhash Ghai’s Karz stormed bollywood in the late 70s, where Rishi Kapoor and Tina Munim combination was well accepted by the audience. All the songs composed by LP and picturised on Rishi Kapoor and Tina Munim became super hit including “mai sola baraski”, “ek haseena thi”, “darde dil”, “om shanty om”, etc. Karz was remade few years back with Himesh Reshammiya playing the role of Rishi Kapoor in the new version. She also acted in the super hit film Aap Ke Diwane opposite Rishi Kapoor. Rakesh Roshan did cast her in the film Akhir Kyon opposite Rishi Kapoor. She was sublime in Basu Chatterjee’s film Baaton Baaton Me opposite Amol Palekar, and Man Pasand. She acted in a number of films opposite Rajesh Khanna including Souten, Bewafai, Insaaf Mai Karunga, most of which did excellent business. Souten did good business in the early 1980s. Padmini Kolhapuri played an important role in that film. She had acted opposite other actors also but viewers remember her combination the most with Rishi Kapoor. Her performances opposite Rishi Kapoor in the films Bade Dilwale, Deedar-E-Yaar and Aap Ke Deewane are remembered by the viewers. Aap Ke Deewane did great business in 1980. Rakesh Roshan also acted opposite Tina Munim where Rishi Kapoor played the main role. The music of Rajesh Roshan became super hit including Rafi’s songs “aap ke dewaane hai”, “tum ko khush dekhkar mai bahut khush hua”, etc. Sunil Dutt launched his son Sanjay Dutt in the film Rocky opposite Tina Munim. The film did good business in the early 80s. In 1987 she left bollywood films. Later she settled down after marrying Anil Ambani. She had been involved in many charitable works. The viewers wish Tina Munim to appear in bollywood films in future, as she still has a lot of acting left in her.

Arijit Singh won the best male playback singer award in Zee Cine Awards 2014 also.

Arijit Singh won best male playback singer award in Zee Cine Awards 2014 also.

Singer Arijit Singh had a great year. After winning the best male playback singer award in Filmfare Awards he also won the best male playback singer award in Zee Cine Awards 2014. He won it for the song ‘tum hi ho” in the film Aashiqi 2. Shreya Ghoshal received the best playback singer female award in Zee Cine Awards 2014 for her song “sun raha hai tu” in the film Aashiqi 2. The best music director award was won by Jeet Ganguly, Mithun and Ankit Tiwary for composing the music of the film Aashiqi 2. Pritam won the award for the best background score for the film Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. Varun Sharma won the award for the best actor in a comic role. Vaani Kapoor won the award for the best debut female in the film Shudh Desi Romance. Raj Kumar Rao won the award for the best supporting actor for his performance in the film Shudh Desi Romance. Divya Dutta won the award for the best supporting actress for her performance in the film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Dhanush won the best actor newcomer male award for his performance in the film Raanjhana. Priyanka Chopra won the best female international icon award. Abhishek Bacchan hosted the show. There were great dance performances by Madhuri Dixit, Shahrukh Khan, Yo Yo Singh, Deepika Padukone and others

Sriradha Banerjee, Srabonti Majumdar and others stormed Zee Bangla Didi No. 1 Program.

Sriradha Banerjee, Srabonti Majumdar and others stormed Zee Bangla Didi No. 1 Program. On 7th February, 2014, Deboshree Roy invited the eminent singers of the golden age to the Zee Bangla Didi No. 1 Program. The celebrities who were invited included Sriradha Banerjee, Srabonti Majumdar, Haimanti Shukla and Pratibha Mukherjee. Deboshree Roy asked Srabonti Majumdar about any notable experience. She was very famous during the 1970s. Her duet song with Hemanta Mukherjee titled “aye khuku aye” really created sensation. It was a song related to the loving relationship of a father with his daughter. Srabonti Majumdar also created sensation with her duet song with Sandhya Mukherjee titled “tumi aamar ma, ami tomar meye, bolo nako ki peyecho amay kache peye”. This song talked about the sweet relationship of a daughter with her mother. She was a great announcer and anchor of All India Radio during the 1970s. She said one of her fans from England wrote a letter congratulating her for brilliant announcements but never knew her address. So she posted the letter in the address of All India Radio. Deboshree Roy asked Sriradha Banerjee about her experiences. She said that her husband was a great cook. That was the reason she never learned any cooking. Once she went in a show where the audience were throwing cucumbers and tomatoes. She continued singing because the action of the audiences were not due to bad performance but enthusiasm of the audience. Haimanti Shukla talked about her experiences also. One fan of her was a fish-seller. She went to the fish market in Gariahat. The fan came to her car and did a pronam by touching her feet. It really touched her heart. All the singers sang their famous songs. Haimanti Shukla sang “emon shapno kokhono dekhini age”. Pratibha Mukherjee sang “kya karun sajni”. In the musical round, Antara Choudhury, the daughter of great composer Salil Choudhury asked musical questions to the legendary singers. She sang the song “rajanigandha”, “biswapita tumi he prabhu” and other songs. The giant singers replied her with their songs. At the end of the show, Sriradha Banerjee gave maximum correct answers and became Didi No. 1 and won all the prizes. Deboshree Roy paid huge amount of respect to the veteran singers.

Jagjit Singh's excellent compositions will always remain immortal.

Jagjit Singh’s excellent compositions will remain immortal forever. The listeners of music all over the world wish happy birthday to Ghazal Maestro Jagjit Singh on 8th February, 2014. Ghazal King Jagjit Singh passed away on 10th October, 2011. In respect of his excellent ghazals his listeners have remained speechless. His voice had been used to heal sadness and sickness. He had been the only singer who had composed and sung songs on the poetry of legendary Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee titled “Nayidisha” in 1999 and “Samvedna” in 2002. Along with his wife Chitra Singh, he was the first Indian composer to have used digital multi-track recording for the album “Beyond Time” in 1987. His original name was Jagpreet Singh. He learned khayal, dhrupad, thumri from Ustaad Jamaal Khan. His album “The unforgetables” in 1976, mesmerized the audience. His baritone voice made everyone enchanted. He departed from classical ghazals to a more refined romantic rendition, by keeping the soul of the lyrics intact. He created a different gharana, a bit different from the other legends of ghazals like Mehedi Hassan, Talat Mehmood, Mohammad Rafi, Noor Jahan, Begum Akhtar, etc. His compositions in the duet albums “Ecstasies”, “A Sound Affair”, “Passions”, with Chitra Singh were unparallel. Jagjit Singh’s excellent bass was balanced by Chitra Singh’s high notes in most of the ghazals. Duet ghazals like”duniya jise kehte hai jadoo ka khilouna hai”, “kaun keheta hai muhobbat ka zuban hoti hai”, etc., will remain immortal for ever. After the death of his son Vivek at the age of 21 years, Chitra Singh left singing. But Jagjit Singh’s later albums were full of pathos, but the excellent lyrics of the shayar’s or poets or given adequate expression by the legendary Ghazal King. The titles of his music albums were also thoughtful including Hope, Insight, Mirage, Kahkashan (Galaxy), etc., to name a few. Jagjit Singh probably had sung with the best poets of the country in the 80s and 90s including Nida Fazli, Qateel Shifai, Firaq Gorakhpuri, Sudarshaan Fakir, Zaka Siddiqi, Nazir Bakri, Faiz Ratlami and others. It required huge talent and innovation to do justice to the thoughtful words shown in the poem. In whichever field of music Jagjit Singh had ventured he had struck gold, whether his albums in bhajans or gurbani. Jagjit Singh enriched hindi film music with his excellent compositions in the film Saath Saath and others. His film songs like “tumko dekha to ye khayal aya”, “tum itna jo muskura rahi ho”, “hoton se chulo tum” had remained historical masterpieces. His songs in TV Serial Mirza Ghalib had enchanted numerous listeners. A Padmabhushan being awarded to the musical maestro was not enough to reward his brilliance. One article is too small to highlight his achievements. His immortal works should be preserved and restored.

Happy birthday to Abhishek Bacchan.

Happy birthday to Abhishek Bacchan. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Abhishek Bacchan on 5th February, 2014. He had entertained the viewers over the last 10 years and is expected to do even better in the years to come. Being the son of superstars Amitabh Bacchan and Jaya Bacchan, he had a great challenge in terms of proving himself in the early part of his career. He got chance in good films like JP Dutta’s Refugee, Dhai Aksar Prem Ki, Bombai Se Aya Mera Dost, but due to comparison of him with his father, his performance was not appreciated inspite of the success of the film. Then he formed a fantastic pair with actress Rani Mukherjee and his career took a turn. His film Yuva was very successful. He played a negative character in the film opposite Rani Mukherjee. The film was related to the violent scenario in Kolkata caused by politics in academic institutions and the loss to the students due to such unrest. Ajay Devgan and Vivek Oberoi did extremely well in the film along with Abhishek Bacchan. Abhishek Bacchan and Rani Mukherjee complimented each other in the film Bunty Aur Babli. Both of them took the recourse of falsehood and duped different people all across the country. Before their plan was unearthed they left the place and got involved in other crimes. The music in the film composed by Shankar- Ehsaan-Loy became super hit with popular songs like “dharak dharak”, “chup chupke chup chupke”, “bunty aur babli”, “kajra re kajra re”, etc. Aishwarya Rai amused the viewers with her item number in the film titled “kajra re”. Big B also did well in the film in the role of police inspector. Abhishek Bacchan did well in the film Dhoom-2 opposite Hrithik Roshan. He investigated the significant operations carried out by Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai who were international thieves and stole expensive items from museums and art galleries. Abhishek Bacchan arrested Hrithik Roshan at the end of the film but did not confine him after he disclosed the places where he stored the stolen items. His other hit films included Guru, opposite Aishwarya Rai and Dostana opposite John Abraham and Priyanka Chopra. In 2009 his film Dilli 6 had been released where he did extremely well opposite Sonam Kapoor and veteran actors in the film. At the end of the year he acted in a critically acclaimed film Paa. The film was directed by Balki. Big played the role of the son of Abhishek Bacchan and Vidya Balan played the role of the his wife. Big B died at the end of the film. Big B and Vidya Balan received the best actor and best actress award in 2010 star screen awards for their performance in the film Paa. Abhishek Bacchan played his role of a politician in style. His tall height and deep voice impressed the viewers over the last few years and the viewers are looked forward to his depiction of the character Ram that he played in director Mani Ratnam’s film Ravan. Unfortunately the film Raavan did not do great business. The same was the fate of his film Khelenge Hum Je Jaan Se directed by Ashutosh Gowarikar. But Abhishek Bacchan played the role of freedom fighter Masterda Surjo Sen who was involved in Chattagram Astragarh Lunthon during the colonial period. He had testws his luck in 2011 with the films Game and Dum Maro Dum and the film Players being released in 2012. None of these films did great business. In 2012, he became the father of girl child as Aishwarya Rai gave birth to a daughter. In 2013, the film Dhoom 3 did business of more than 240 crores, but the entire credit of the film had been taken away by Amir Khan. He did a positive character but did not win the hearts of the fans. He requires a hit film very soon and the viewers wish that the other films in 2014 will do well and bring back the stardom of Abhishek Bacchan.

Rafi and Madanmohan combination created artistic songs.

Rafi and Madanmohan combination created artistic songs.

There are two types of songs composed in Bollywood films. One form of the songs are those songs which are created for the sequences of the films and for public tastes. The other forms are those songs which are created to attain artistic excellence. Madanmohan Kohli’s compositions for Mohammad Rafi fall in the second category. Majority of the songs composed by Madanmohan Kohli were in the form of ghazals. In Bharat Bhusan’s film Jahanara, released in 1964, 2 of Rafi’s songs composed by Madanmohan were masterpieces including “baad muddat key eh ghari ayi” and “kisiki yaad me apna ko hai bhulaye hue”. In Sunil Dutt’s film Ghazal, released in 1964, all the songs sung by Rafisahab for Madanmohan were masterpieces including “rang aur noor ki baraat kise pesh karoon”, “ishq ki garmiye- jazbaat kise pesh karun”, “mujhe yeh phool na den”, “meri mehboob kahi aur milan kar mujhse”, to name a few. Sahir Ludhiyanvi wrote the lyrics of the songs. They were majestic by every musical standards. Madanmohan’s casting of Mohammad Rafi in those songs was point blank. Rafisahab’s patriotic andaz was captured by Madanmohan Kohli in the film Haqeeqat in 1964. The songs “kar chale hum fida”, “hoge majboor usne bulaya hoga” still brings patriotic feeling in numerous Indians even 50 years after the creation. In Dharmender’s film Neela Akash, in 1965, all the songs of Rafi Madanmohan combination stormed Bollywood including “akhri geet muhobbat ka sunalun”, “aapko pyar chupane ki buri aadat hai”. In Sunil Dutt’s film Chirag, the Rafi Madanmohan combination again created magic. The songs were outstanding including “chirag dil ka jalao bahut andhera hai”, “teri aankhon ke siva duniya me rakkha kya hai”. All the songs of Rafi Madanmohan combination in Dharmender’s film Dulhan Ek Raat Ki require special mention. The songs like “ek haseen sham ko”, “kisi ka kuch kho gaya hai”, were romantic in nature. In the 1970s also Madanmohan Kohli composed immortal tunes for Rafisahab. Some of the gems included “yeh duniya yeh mehfil” from film Heer Ranjha, “tum jo mil gaye ho to yeh lagta hai’ from film Hanste Zakhm, “barbaad muhobbat ka dua saath liye ja” from the film Laila Majnu. No one can forget the enchanting appeal of Rafisahab’s rendition of the song “tumhari zulf ke saye me sham karlunga’ another gem of Madanmohan Kohli. Madanmohan Kohli’s untimely death in mid-1970s ended the dream combination. But the songs and films are rich assets and huge amount of preservation is required to pay respect to the departed souls of Madanmohan Kohli and Mohammad Rafi.

Salman Khan's Jai Ho had already done more than 100 crores business.

Salman Khan's Jai Ho had crossed 100 crores business. It took the film 9 days to do so. It was a bit longer time, because his film Ek Tha Tiger did it in 5 days. But the film had regained business and is destined to be blockbuster.

After almost a year a Salman Khan film had been released. Jai Ho had been released on 24th January, 2014, on a non-festival day. The film had collected 75 crores in 4 days. Whenever the success of Salman Khan’s previous films are compared Jai Ho did not get the opening of Ek Tha Tiger. Actually Salman Khan had set his own standards so high that whenever his films are release there is too much expectation. But there is a limit to box-office collection given by a star. Jai Ho had been directed by Sohail Khan. In this film Salman Khan had launched a new actress Daisy Shah. She had done very well in the film. The theme of the film is very good. Salman Khan an ex-army man had told the persons whom he helped not to tell him thank you. Instead help 3 other persons, who in turn should help 3 other persons. The chain continues. Tabu had played the role of the sister of Salman Khan. She did a fabulous job. Nadira Babbar played the role of the mother of Salman Khan. In the film Danny played the character of home minister and he wanted to kill the Chief Minister. Salman Khan carried the injured Chief Minister and got him cured and fought against the men of Danny. There were cameo performances from Sunil Shetty and Genelia Desouza. Sunil Shetty played the character of a military major who saw Salman Khan helping children. In the last scene he brought a military tanker to help Salman Khan. Genelia De Souza played the character of handicapped girl who could not give her exam and committed suicide. The music of Jai Ho was good. Shreya Ghoshal and Shaan’s song “tere naina maar hi dalenge” became super hit. Sajid Wajid’s tunes were impressive. Salman Khan also showing public concern, did not allow to raise the prices of the film as well. So if the film had collected 75 crores in 4 days, if prices were increased by this time the film would have collected 100 crores. If Salman Khan’s success story from Wanted is traced back, he just had had broken his own records. Dabaang 2 had broken the record of Ready. Ek Tha Tiger had broken the record of Bodyguard. Jai Ho will do business of 150 crores.