Happy birthday to talented star Akshay Khanna.

Happy birthday to talented star Akshay Khanna. The viewers wish happy birthday to talented star Akshay Khanna on 4th April, 2011.Akshay Khanna has been an exception in the list of bollywood actors who had joined bollywood films in the 90s. He has banked his resources on his decency which most of the actors hardly care about. He exhibited his softness of character in the film Taal opposite Aiswariya Rai. He did not try to be forceful in his presentation of affection in the film. In Border, he played the role of an Indian soldier who died at the border after he had been successful in destroying the Pakistani forces in the war that took place in the 70s. He loved his wife and mother which was shown in the flashback. He gave good lips in Sonu Nigam’s song “hume jab se mohabbat ho gayi hai”, composed by Anu Malik. He was also sublime in the film Hulchul opposite Kareena Kapoor. He tried to create an artificial weakness for her as his family and Kareena’s family were at war for generations. But after meeting her some time, he fell in love in reality and ultimately succeeded in marrying her against the wishes of all the family members. He played the complex role in Dil Chahta Hai, opposite Dimple Kapadia, where he was the friend of Amir Khan and Saif Ali Khan and fell in love with a middle aged lady, who was older than him. He even left his friends as the association with Dimple was quite awkward and these types of attachments are not accepted in the societies of third world countries. He expressed a thoughtful character who was different from his enthusiastic friends in the film. He had also done well in the film 36 China Town, where he played the role of a detective. The film was based on a murder that took place in 36 China Town, where Kareena and Shahid Kapoor also went and got involved in the list of suspected characters. He solved the mystery in style. In Salaame- e- Ishq his romantic andaz opposite Ayesha Takia still haunts viewers. He gave a reserve performance in the film Aakrosh in 2010. His soft style of dialogue throwing balanced the dare devil acts of Ajay Devgan in the film. Both of them did a great job. He even acted well in the film Tees Maar Khan. The film did not do great business due to the storyline but Akshay Khanna’s performance was well appreciated. Akshay Khanna has a number of films in his list of films which are going to be released in 2011 and viewers expect his dynamic performance in all of them.

Happy birthday to Ajay Devgan.

Happy birthday to Ajay Devgan. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Ajay Devgan on 2nd April, 2011. He had contributed a lot in bollywood films in the last 20 years. He started his career with the superhit film Phool Aur Kaante. As his father Veeru Devgan had a great background of training actors for action sequences and Ajay Devgan started his career with the latent quality of an action hero.

The action sequences in Phool Aur Kaante were excellent. Also the music of the film became hit with songs like “premi pagal awara”, “tumko milne ko dil karta hai”, etc., sung by Kumar Shanu and Alka Yagnik, which were picturized on Ajay Devgan and Madhu.

The other successful films of Ajay Devgan include Ishq, Dilwale, Pyar To Hona Hi Tha, etc. In Ishq, he acted with Amir Khan, Juhi Chawla and Kajol, and contributed well in the comedy sequences of the film. The film was based on the story of affairs between rich and poor people and the fathers of Juhi Chawla and Ajay Devgan never wanted to get their children married to poor people. The music of the film was very successful with songs like “ishq hua”, “humko tumse pyar hai”, etc.

Ajay Devgan also acted in very serious films like Raincoat opposite Aishwarya Rai, which was directed by Rituporno Ghosh, Zakhm, Gangaajal , etc. He had created an identity of a reserve actor and that image helped him in getting landmark roles for the last 10 years. His other successful films include Golmaal and Golmaal Returns.

In both Golmaal and Golmaal Returns Ajay Devgan acted with other comedians like Arshad Warsi and Tushaar Kapoor and maintained the rhythm of the film. Tushar Kapoor played the role of a deaf and dumb character in the film and at the end of the film got the job, the girl for marriage, as against the interests of his other friends.

Ajay Devgan married successful actress Kajol and both had acted together in a number of films like Pyar To Hona Hi Tha, Ishq, You, Me and Hum, etc., most of which were successful. Even Ajay Devgan’s role of a ghost in the film Kaal opposite Lara Dutta, John Abraham and others were well appreciated by viewers. His performance in patriotic roles like that of Shahid Bhagat Singh also requires special mention.

His film All the best did brilliant business in the last year. Although the credit for the success of the comedy film goes collectively to the effort of Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Bipasha Basu and others, but Ajay Devgan’s anticipation of viewers accepting comedy stories require appreciation.

2010 proved extremely successful for Ajay Devgan. In 2010 also he had acted in the comedy film Atithi Tum Kab Jayoge with Konkona Sen Sharma and Paresh Rawal. The serious films in the year like Once Upon a Time In Mumbai did excellent business as compared to Aakrosh. The comedy film Golmaal 3 did excellent business and Ajay Devgan proved his effortlessness opposite actress Kareena Kapoor in style. The viewers expect Ajay Devgan to continue his good work both as an actor and also producer, director in 2011 in the years to come.

Happy birthday to Moon Moon Sen.

Happy birthday to Moon Moon Sen. The viewers of bollywood films and Bengali films wish happy birthday to Moon Moon Sent the daughter of the legendary actress Suchitra Sen on 28th March, 2011. She had acted in around 60 films and 40 teleserials to date.

She was born as the daughter of Dibanath Sen and Suchitra Sen on 28th March, 1958. She studied in Loreto Convent, Darjeeling and Loreto House, Kolkata. She did her Masters in Comparative Literature from Jadavpur University, Kolkata. She started her acting career with the film Andar Bahar in 1984.

She was successful opposite Tapas Pal in the film Baidurjya Rahashya. It was crime thriller directed by Dadasaheb Phalke Wining Director Tapan Sinha. Bosonto Choudhury acted in a double role in the film. Her other successful Bengali films included Rajbadhu, Tumi Kato Sundar, Pujarini, Neel Nirjane, etc.

In respect of hindi films she acted in Musafir, Sheesha, Pyar Ki Jeet, Lekin, Jeevan Ek Sunghursh, etc. She played the role of the elder sister of Madhuri Dixit in the film 100 Days. She was killed in the film by the villain and that was the subject matter of the film. She acted in few Tamil, Telegu films as well, like 12B, Sirivennela, etc.

She also worked in the field of advertisement. She acted as models in soap advertisements and endorsements of other products. Her both daughters Raima Sen and Riya Sen established themselves in bollywood films. While Raima Sen had been successful in films like Parineeta, God Mother, Riya Sen had been successful in films like Apna Sapna Money Money, Heroes, etc. The viewers expect Moon Moon Sen to continue acting in character roles in future.

Remembering Tragedy Queen Meena Kumari on her death anniversary.

Remembering Tragedy Queen Meena Kumari on her death anniversary. The viewers of bollywood films remember Tragedy Queen Meena Kumari on her death anniversary on 31st March, 2011. Meena Kumari can be considered as the greatest actress of Bollywood during the golden age who had portrayed images and characters showing complexity of the mind of the Indian women and the social ostentations that they had faced during different periods of time. Meena Kumari, born on 1st August, 1932, known as Mahjabeen Bano, stormed into the Indian silver screen in 1952, with the sublime performance in Baiju Bawra. Although the film had been renowned for everlasting composition of Hindustani ragas by Naushad and supreme performance of Mohammad Rafi, with songs like “man tarpata”, “woh duniya ke rakhwale”, etc., Meena Kumari’s performance opposite Bharat Bhushan showed the filmlovers that she had come to conquer Bollywood with her soft style of acting. In the 50s Meena Kumari’s performance in films like Parineeta, 1953, Footpath, 1954, Yahudi, 1958, etc. were appreciated by critics, but she had created her image of martyr in the film Sharda, 1957, where even after having an affair with Raj Kapoor, in the film she had to sarcrifice her affection to marry Raj Mehra, his father, who was much older than her. In Dil Ek Mandir, 1963, Meena Kumari after having affair with Rajender Kumar in her youth had to marry Raj Kumar, due to social pressure. But from the time she had married Raj Kumar, she fulfilled all the duties of a middle class Hindu woman, and brought her sick husband to the hospital at the mercy of Rajender Kumar. She prayed to God, for the recovery of Raj Kumar. Rajender Kumar sacrificed his life to treat her husband and died at the end of the film. The songs composed by Shankar Jaikishan and sung by Rafi and Lata, had not lost their significance even today. In 1962, Meena Kumari, performed the role of choti bahu, in Guru Dutt’s Saheb Bibi aur Ghulam, the film showing the zamindari raj (dominance of Feudal lords) existing in the British capital in India, that is Kolkata. She was married to the youngest son in a family of zamindars who used to attend mujras in Jaan bazaar, in Kolkata, where performers from Lucknow, Benaras used to come and exhibit their skills of singing classical songs. She tried to retain her husband Rehman at home, and through her conversation, Guru Dutt, the observer came to know about the history of the family. Meena Kumar’s performance opposite Pradeep Kumar, used to create a different dimension, as her pardanashin image had matched with royal style of acting of Pradeep Kumar. After the success of Aarti, 1962; Meena Kumari, acted in the blockbusters Bheegi Raat, 1965, and Bahu Begum, 1967, opposite Pradeep Kumar and Ashok Kumar. In Bheegi Raat, she loved Pradeep Kumar, yet due to an accident which made her legs paralysed she could not attend the engagement and worked in the house of Ashok Kumar as governess. When society boycotted Ashok Kumar, she agreed to marry her, but presence of Pradeep Kumar at the end of the film in the song “dil jo na keh saka” compelled Ashok Kumar to sacrifice his affair and go back to London. It was a film where, Rafi, Lata, Roshan and the actors all had provided their best performance possible. Meena Kumar’s other film with Pradeep Kumar titled Chitralekha was also successful. Meena Kumari had become immortal with her classic performance in the film Pakeeza, 1971, opposite Raj Kumar, which took around 10 years to be completed. It was created on a subject related to women brought up in kotha and exhibited the class of women who could not give the recognition to their next generation as their father’s are not known. The music composed by Ghulam Mohammad, Lata and Rafi’s songs, Kamal Humrohi’s direction (the husband of Meena Kumari) all complemented each other, and the film became historical piece of document. The greatest hallmark of Meena Kumari lied in her ability to depict the helplessness of Indian women existing specially in the 50s and 60s, when the patriarchal society dominated them and they had no independent income to live separately against the pressure of society. In her performances, beauty, aristrocracy, tragedy, personality all blended into one. Whenever we think about cine-classics like Dil Apna aur Preet Parayi, 1960, or Ghazal, 1965, Meena Kumari’s image automatically comes in our mind. She died in 1972, only at an age of 41. Meena Kumari’s films should be restored in an archive for future generations to learn the art of understanding the characters from the core of the heart the way Meena Kumari had done during the golden age of Indian cinema.

Sadhna remained sizzling actress in the 60s.

Sadhna remained sizzling actress in the 60s. Sadhna Shivdasani remained sizzling actress in the 60s. Born on 2nd September, 1941, her name was given by her father due to his fascination for the actress Sadhana Bose. She acted in a Sindhi film Abana in 1958 where she played the role of the sister of the heroine in the film. Then Subodh Mukherjee did cast her opposite Joy Mukherjee in the film Love in Simla in 1959. The music was composed by Iqbal Qureshi and the songs of the film became big hits. She acted in successful films one after the other after that including Parakh, Hum Dono, Prem Patra. In 1962, her film Ek Musafir Ek Haseena opposite Joy Mukherjee became musical blockbuster. Raj Khosla’s hit became known for the songs composed by OP Nayyar, including Rafi’s songs “aap yuhi agar”, “bahut shukhriya”, “phir tere shahar me”, etc. She also acted in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s film Asli Nakli in 1962, opposite Dev Anand which was also another musical hit. Shankar Jaikishan’s composition became super hit including Lata’s “tera mera pyara amar”, Rafi’s song “tujhe jeevan ki dor me”, etc. Mere Mehboob was the greatest hit of Sadhna opposite Jubilee Kumar Rajender Kumar in 1963. The romantic film created the pair of Rajender Kumar Sadhna who remained sublime during the 60s. Naushad’s composition was brilliant including Rafi’s title song “mere mehboob tujhe meri muhobbat ki kasam”. The other super hit films of Sadhna opposite Rajender Kumar including Aarzoo and Aap Aye Bahar Aye. In 1965 she was married to RK Nayyar. She became famous for her spooky performance in Raj Khosla’s suspense thrillers like Wo Kaun Thi, Mera Saya and Anita. For Wo Kaun Thi she received filmfare nomination for best actress. Her other successful films including Dulha Dulhan opposite Raj Kapoor, Waqt opposite Sunil Dutt, Battamees and Raj Kumar opposite Shammi Kapoor, Ek Phool Do Mali opposite Sanjay Khan, etc. She faded away from the industry in the 70s, as her films Geeta Mera Naam, Ishq Par Zor Nahin, did not do adequate business. Her films should be preserved and restored.

Shahrukh Khan's Ra One was unveiled during 2nd Quarter Final of ICC Cricket World Cup 2011.

Shahrukh Khan’s Ra One was unveiled during 2nd Quarter Final of ICC Cricket World Cup 2011.

Shahrukh Khan’s new big budget film Ra One was unveiled during 2nd Quarter Final of ICC Cricket World Cup 2011. The film is scheduled to release during Diwali this year.

Shahrukh Khan had been a master of propaganda. This time he provided the first look of the film during the Quarter Final between India and Australia, which was one of the most popular matches played so far. The film had been produced by Shahrukh Khan’s production House Red Chillies Entertainment.

Anubhav Sinha had directed the film. Ra One means Random Access Version 1. The film will be based on science fiction treatment. Arjun Rampal will be the villain in the film. Kareena Kapoor played the female lead character opposite Shahrukh Khan.

Hans Zimmer, Vishal Shekhar and Illaiyaraja had composed the music for the film. Shahrukh Khan approached Jackie Chan to play the role of the villain in the film. But to certain reasons, he could not convince him. So Arjun Rampal is playing the important. The part of the shooting that was supposed to take place in India had almost been completed. The shooting in London and other places are yet to take place.

Sharukh Khan will play the role of G One, meaning Jeevan One. The viewers will have lot of expectation from the film. Shahrukh Khan had remained the ruler of bollywood films for the last 15 years. His level of publicity relating to his films had not been matched by other actors of bollywood.

Let us hope the film does well.

Happy birthday to Madhu.

Happy birthday to Madhu.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Madhu on 26th March, 2011. Madhu, also known as Madhubala Raghunath had contributed a lot to the bollywood industry especially in the 90s. During the 90s, terrorism became an important issue in India. Many directors addressed the problem by revealing them in films.

Director Mani Ratnam addressed the issue relating to terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir in his Roja. Roja was probably the most successful film of Madhu. It had been shown that Madhu was married to Arvind Swami after he rejected Madhu’s sister for marriage. In fact Madhu’s sister had an affair with another person and told Arvind Swami about it.

Arvind Swami was a renowned computer engineer and his senior officer asked him to take an assignment and go to Kashmir. Arvind Swami took Madhu and went to Kashmir. Over there Arvind Swamy was kidnapped by the terrorists led by Pankaj Kapoor. They demanded the release of their leader who was arrested and kept in custody.

Madhu went to all the officers present over there for the release of the terrorist leader for the sake of her husband. At the end of the film Arvind Swamy freed himself and came and met Madhu after being tortured by the terrorists. The film became super hit, with powerful direction, brilliant music of AR Rehman and powerful acting of mainly Arvind Swami, Madhu and Pankaj Kapoor. Madhu’s romantic appeal was balanced by her brilliant performance in the film. The songs “roja janeman”, “rukmini rukmini”, “dil hai chota sa” stormed bollywood films in mid-90s.

Madhu did well even in action films like Phool Aur Kaante, opposite Ajay Devgan. The film was related to the romantic story between Ajay Devgan and Madhu and the barriers created by anti-socials in their way. The music given in that film by Nadeem Shravan was also successful. The songs “premi pagal”, ‘tumse milne ko dil karta hai”, etc., sung by mainly Kumar Shanu and Alka Yagnik, became very successful. Phool Aur Kaante became a trend setter in the world of films based on college romance.

Madhu was also sublime in other films like Hum Hai Bemisaal, Diljaale, Return of the Jewel Thief, etc. She had acted with Sunil Shetty, Akshay Kumar and other leading stars of bollywood films. She was sublime in the film Yashwant opposite Nana Patekar. Her husband was adamant police of officer and she became a successful officer after passing civil service exam. She compromised with the uncompromising character played by Nana Patekar who gave her shelter and married her.

She acted in a number of Tamil and Malayalam films like Ottaya Pattalam as well. In the late 90s, all of a sudden she faded out of the bollywood industry. The viewers expect her to make a comeback very soon.

Elizabeth Taylor - one of the greatest actresses of Hollywood is no more.

Elizabeth Taylor – one of the greatest actresses of Hollywood is no more.

Elizabeth Taylor, the beautiful actress who dominated Hollywood films of 50s and 60s is no more. She died in March, 2011, at the age of 79 years. She was considered one of the greatest actresses of Hollywood films of all times. If the golden era, that is the 50s and 60s is associated with everlasting performances of towering actresses like Sofia Lorrain, Audrey Hepburn, Ava Gardner, Marylyn Monroe, etc, then Liz Taylor (Elizabeth Taylor) can be considered the superstar who ruled the industry inspite of performance of the other beautiful actresses.

Liz Taylor, the other name of Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor, was born on 27th February, 1932, in Hampstead, UK. Her parents Francis Lenn Taylor and Sara Viola Warmbrodt were Americans who settled in UK. After the second world war II, Liz Taylor settled in Los Angeles, California, US. Hedda Hopper, a famous columnist entered Liz Taylor’s father’s art gallery and recommended her to known directors of Hollywood films. After being introduced to Andrea Berens, John Considine, Liz Taylor got a scope of performing in the film There’s Born Every Minute, at an age of nine years. In 1941, she signed a six month’s contract with Universal Pictures.

Her notable films during young age included National Velvet, Life with Father (1947), A Date with Judy (1948). With short time she got adult roles and stormed Hollywood with her matured performances. Her journey in the 50s started with romantic comedy Father of the Bride. In 1954 she acted in the film Rhapsody, opposite Vittoria Gasman. Her following films included blockbusters like Giant (1956) opposite Rock Hudson, Raintree County (1957) opposite Montgomery Clift, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958) opposite Paul Newman. In 1963, she acted in the epic film Cleopatra opposite her husband Richard Burton who played the role of Mark Anthony. She became the highest paid Hollywood actress of all times. Taylor won the academy award for best actress for her performance in the film Butterfield 8, in 1960, where her husband Eddie Fisher acted opposite her. She married a number of times, but the marriage with Richard Burton created the greatest gossip of all times.

She acted opposite Burton in other films like The VIPs (1963), The Sandpiper (1965), The Comedians, etc. She also acted opposite superstar Marlon Brando in the film Reflections in a Golden Eye. After The Only Game In Town, in 1970, she reduced her performances in Hollywood films. With eight husbands, some having died, while the other divorced, Liz Taylor was in the media even after she left acting in films. Critics argue that apart from her beauty, Liz Taylor can be considered one of the best five actresses that Hollywood had ever produced. Her admirers pay their homage to the talented actress who will remain immortal in her epic performances. Her films should be preserved and restored.

Javed Ali in recent times.

Javed Ali in recent times.
Javed Ali shot to fame in bollywood music in 2007 onwards with his song “ek din teri raahon” from the film Naqaab. He continued the dream run in the film Jodha Akbar with the song “jashn-e-bahaara” composed by AR Rehman.

In 2008, Javed Ali struck form with the song “tu muskura” in the film Yuvraaj composed by AR Rehman. Salman Khan gave lips in the song. Although the film did not do great business, but the songs did great business.

His song in the film Ghajini also did great business. The song was titled “guzaarish” and picturised on Amir Khan and the film excellent business in 2008. The songs also contributed a lot for the success of the film. The music was composed by AR Rehman.

He had also sung the songs in the film Dilli 6. AR Rehman composed music for the film. In 2009, he sang relevant songs in successful films like De Dana Dan and Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani.

He carried forward his success in the films of the following years. He sang in the film Raavan in 2010. In 2011 also he sang in landmark films. He sang in the film Yamla Pagla Deewana. He had also sang in the film Yeh Saali Zindagi. The audience expect him to do well in the films of the future.

Uttam Kumar and Ajoy Kar were sublime in Khelaghar.

Uttam Kumar and Ajoy Kar were sublime in Khelaghar.

Mahanayak Uttam Kumar gave a brilliant performance in Ajoy Kar’s film Khelaghar released in early 60s. Ajoy Kar always considered Uttam Kumar as his model in most of the films including the greatest hits of all times, Harano Sur and Saptapadi. Uttam Kumar’s appeal had not died out even today after 29 years of his death. That is the reason Railway Minister Mamta Banerjee renamed Tollygunge Metro Station as Mahanayak Uttam Kumar Metro Station in the recent past to show homage to the greatest superstar of all times.

In Khelaghar, Uttam Kumar surrendered before Kolkata Police after being involved in anti-national activities. He was a freedom fighter. He ran out of the prison and entered the room of Mala Sinha, tied her up and by wearing the clothes of Mala Sinha’s father Chabi Biswas escaped.

The entire film was related to the efforts made by the Kolkata Police to arrest Uttam Kumar. In the meantime Mala Sinha did not want to marry the person selected by Chabi Biswas. So she left her house and took Uttam Kumar’s help to escape from the hands of local gundas.

The relationship developed into affection. Rafi sung for Asitboron in the film while Hemant Kumar sang songs for Uttam Kumar. Asitboron gave good lips in the song sung by Rafi. At the end of the film, the actual freedom fighter for whom Uttam Kumar surrendered before the police appeared in Court and disclosed the truth. Uttam Kumar was a musician who had love for his country, so guarded the freedom fighter. Uttam Kumar was send to two years imprisonment for false personification under section 419 of the Indian Penal Code.

There were very few performers in the film including Chabi Biswas, Uttam Kumar and Mala Sinha. So these few characters Ajoy Kar, the giant director managed to deliver a hit film for the audience. The story still has relevance and Uttam Kumar’s appeal in the film had not died out. The film should be restored and preserved.

Happy birthday to Kangana Ranaut.

Happy birthday to Kangana Ranaut.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to successful bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut on 20th March, 2011. Kangana Ranaut had created a strong box-office for herself during her short career till now.

In 2008 when she acted in the film Fashion, she amazed the audience with her powerful performance in a Madhur Bhandarkar film, which had more elements involving reality than larger than life image. The film showed the new entrants in the fashion industry. Priyanka Chopra played the main role in the film who had come from her native town to Mumbai to create her identity in the fashion industry.

Priyanka interacted with Kangana Ranaut in the fashion industry and came to know about her struggle as well. Success in that industry is obtained at the cost of peace, security, happiness. Both Kangana and Priyanka played their part to perfection and created a mark in the minds of intellectual audience. Both Kangana Ranaut and Priyanka Chopra received filmfare awards for their best performance in Fashion as best supporting actress and best actress respectively.

Kangana Ranaut played her role to perfection even in the film Gangster and Life in a Metro. Her performance in Gangster brought her the best debutant award in 2007. In Life in a Metro, she played the role of a girl who could not decide about what to do in a Metro city. She was confused about the boyfriends and could not find out who really wanted her.

She was probably at her best in the film Raaz, the mystery continues opposite Adhyayan Suman and Imraan Hashmi. It has been released in January, 2009 and already done good business in India and abroad. The unsatisfied soul of Jackie Shroff had entered her body, and Imraan Hashmi could see the future events while he did paint Kangana’s face.

At the end of the film, Kangana and Imraan Hashmi went to the place Kalindi, where they unearthed the past events where a chemical plant used to dump its toxic wastes in a sacred lake near a temple. When Jackie Shroff complained about it, he was killed by the gundas sent by the priest. So the unsatisfied soul of Jackie Shroff entered the body of Kangana Ranaut to tell the story to everyone. Kangana again can get nomination for best actress for her horrified performance in the film Raaz –the mysery continues.

Although her film Kites opposite Hrithik Roshan and Barbara Mori and No Problem opposite Akshay Khanna did mediocre business in 2010, the viewers expect her to do well in 2011. She did well in those films but the films were not accepted by the audience for different reasons. She has age, beauty and acting talent in her favour which can make an impact in 2011.

Significance of Holi in the RK Studio.

Significance of Holi in the RK Studio.

The holi festival has come again in 2011. The festival of colours brings a large section of the society together. These days holi is losing significance in the context of bollywood films and the stars involved with film-making. During the lifetime of Showman Raj Kapoor, holi was celebrated in RK Studio. It used to be a very prestigious affair. Other than members of the Kapoor family including Shammi Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Rajiv Kapoor and others, celebrities from the film industry used to play holi in the studio.

The event marked the strengthening of relationship of members of the bollywood film industry. The celebration included directors like Manmohan Desai, actors like Dilip Kumar, singers like Mukesh, composers like Shankar Jaikishan, to name a few. The enthusiasm was there even during the 80s, when most of the celebrities who were contemporaries of Raj Kapoor became old.

Raj Kapoor himself stopped it in the late 80s as he started having physical discomfort while playing holi. He had asthma and the contact of colours basically aggravated the disease. The prestigious celebration of holi stopped after 1988, after the death of Raj Kapoor.

After that time, a number of other celebrities started the tradition of inviting the film industry to play holi. But the pomp and grandiuer that was there in RK Studio could not be replicated.

Holi forms an important festival for Indians and bollywood films had devoted a lot of space for holi. It was shown in films like Paraya Dhan, Sholay, Silsila, to name a few. The songs related to holi like “holi re holi” sung by Manna Dey, “holi ke rang” sung by Kishore Kumar, or “rang barse” sung by Big B had not lost their appeal even after 30 years of the release of the films.

Modern producers and directors can also portray the festival of colours in modern films in their innovative style as holi is one of the most popular festivals of the country. Ranbir Kapoor is on the way to be the new superstar of bollywood films with successful performances in films like Bachna Aye Haseeno, Wake Up Sid and Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani. He can make an effort to revive the holi celebrations in RK Studio.

Shankar Jaikishan and Manna Dey.

Shankar Jaikishan and Manna Dey.

Manna Dey was a unique singer in bollywood history whose brilliant classical andaz commended respect from the giant composers of the golden age that Is 40s, 50s and 60s. Lifetime Achievement award, Padmabhushan are few feathers in his cap which show the esteem with which the country greets him.

He had very understanding with giant composers Shankar Jaikishan. Manna Dey rose to fame in 1955 with Raj Kapoor’s film Shree 420, where his songs “mur murkena dekh”, “pyar hua ikraar hua”, “dil ka haal sune dilwala” were all super hit. Shankar Jaikishan’s composition, Raj Kapoor’s lips and Manna Dey’s expression synchronized in the musical blockbuster.

In Basant Bahar, SJ gave classical tunes to Manna Dey. The song “sur na saje kya gayun mai” stands out. In Raj Kapoor’s Chori Chori, based on Hollywood film Roman Holiday, Manna Dey’s song “yeh raat bheegi bheegi”, “yeh to batayo kit um mere kaun ho”, “aaja sanam” mesmerized the audience. The SJ Manna Dey combination was at their best in those songs. Raj Kapoor and Nargis played the same role which Gregory Pegg and Audrey Hepburn played in Hollywood and Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen played in the Bengali film Chawa Pawa.

SJ’s tune “tu pyar ka saagar hai” sung by Manna Dey in Balraj Sahani’s film Seema was a masterpiece. The other landmark songs sung by Manna Dey composed by SJ included “cham cham bajere payelia”, also the song “mai tere pyar ka beemar hoon kya arz karoon” picturised on Mehmood in the film Love In Tokyo, “ai bhai zara dekhke chalo” picturised on Raj Kapoor in the film Mera Naam Joker, to name a few.

In Shammi Kapoor’s film Pagla Kahin Ka, Manna Dey’s song “meri bhais ko danda kyun mara” became big hit. Besides Manna Dey’s folk andaz in Raj Kapoor’s film Teesri Kasam in the song “chalet musafir moh liyo re” was well appreciated by the critics. Also Manna Dey’s song “suraj aa pass” and “muskura ladle muskura” became extremely popular in the early 60s.
It is not possible to highlight the magical combination of Shankar Jaikishan and Manna Dey in a small article. Shankar Jaikishan were probably the composers who used Manna Dey’s talent to the best possible level considering the effort of Roshanlal Nagrath, Madanmohan and others. The films and the songs of SJ and Manna Dey combination should be preserved and restored.

Happy birthday to Rani Mukherjee

Happy birthday to Rani Mukherjee.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Rani Mukherjee on 21st March, 2011. Born on 21st March, 1978, she started her career with the film Raja Ki Ayegi Baraat. She ruled bollywood films from 2002 to 2006. After that all of a sudden her stardom got affected.

She rose to stardom with brilliant performance in Karan Johar’s film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. She acted opposite Kajol and Shahrukh Khan and superseded both of them in the film. She received the filmfare best supporting actress award for her performance in the film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. After reaching stardom she acted opposite all the leading stars of bollywood films. Her films Badal and Bichhu opposite Bobby Deol, which involved terrorism and narcotics respectively, did great business. Her film Ghulam opposite Aamir Khan was successful. Her lips in the song “aati kya khandala” were well appreciated.

She got critical acclamation for powerful performance in the film Saathiya opposite Vivek Oberoi. All the songs composed by AR Rehman were super hit and film took Rani Mukherjee’s career to a different dimension. She played significant roles in other films like Nayak opposite Anil Kapoor, Chori Chori Chupke Chupke opposite Salman Khan, Chalte Chalte opposite Shahrukh Khan.

She played the role of her life in Black. In the film she played the character of a blind girl. The entire process rediscovering herself earned her the filmfare award under the category of both best actress and best actress under critic’s choice. Then her combination with Abhishek Bacchan was well received by the viewers. Films like Bunty Aur Bably and Yuva was well received by the viewers. Rani Mukherjee started showing her versatility in any type of role, including the role of surrogate mother, aspiring model, etc.

Her other successful films included Mujhse Dosti Karoge opposite Hrithik Roshan, Veer Zara opposite Shahrukh Khan, Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega opposite Salman Khan, to name a few. Her attachment with the Yash Raj Banner had led to downfall after 2007. None of the films like Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic, Ta Ra Rum Pum, did good business, and Rani Mukherjee lost out of competition with successful actresses of the present period like Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Vidya Balan, etc.

In 2011, her film No One Killed Jessica did well. She acted opposite Vidya Balan and the performance of both the actresses was well appreciated by the audience and the critics.

The viewers expect Rani Mukherjee to make come back in character roles because a lot of acting is still left in her.

Remembering actor Raj Kumar

Remembering actor Raj Kumar.

The viewers of Kannada films will remember actor Raj Kumar on 12th April, 2011 on his death anniversary. His actual name was Singanalluru Puttuswamaya Mutthuraju.

He had acted in more than 200 Kannada films. His first hit film was Bedara Kannapa in 1954. His next successful film was Kalahasti Mahathyam which was released later. It was made in Telegu language.

Bhagyada Bagilu was his 100th film which was very successful. Devatha Manushya was his 200th film. Famous actress Rekha made her debut opposite Raj Kumar in the film Goadalli CID 999. He had acted opposite many famous actresses in his illustrious career including Madhavi, Jayaprada, Leelavathi, Jayanti, Bharati, etc.

He produced films like Kaviratna Kalidasa where he acted too. He also performed in the film Shankar Guru. He won national award for the song “naadamaya”. He also sang song in the film Mahishashur Mardini.

In 2000, Veerapan and his gang abducted the famous actor and his relatives from his house. Veerappan was wanting the release of the members of his gang who were arrested under anti-terrorist laws. He was returned after 100 days of captivity.

It is not possible to highlight the work of legendary actor Raj Kumar in a small article. He had been a great asset to South Indian film industry and will remain immortal in his films and songs. His films should be restored.

Happy birthday to Shreya Ghoshal.

Happy birthday to Shreya Ghoshal.
The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to sweet singer Shreya Ghoshal on 12th March, 2011. From national awards, Zee Cine Awards, Starscreen awards and filmfare awards, she had remained a frequent recipient of the awards due to her sheer brilliance.

Bollywood films in the 50s, 60s and 70s were dominated by Lata, Geeta Dutt, Shamshad Begum, Suraiya, Asha, Suman Kalyanpur, etc. In the 80s and 90s Alka Yagnik and Kavita Krishnamurty made a very notable contribution in bollywood films. Shreya Ghoshal had established herself the future singer of bollywood cinema for the last few years.Born in a Bengali family in Rawatbhata, in Kota district of Rajasthan, Shreya Ghoshal learnt classical music from Mahesh Chandra Sharma. She participated in the musical competition in the TV Channel titled Saregamapa, and when she reached the finals after defeating renowned female singers, the producers, directors and composers were moved by her performance.

She made her presence felt with her song in the film Devdas, directed by Sanjay Leela Banshali, with the song “bairi piya” and after that she never had to look back. Just like Sonu Nigam had created a gharana by himself and composers agree about his versatility, similarly Shreya Ghoshal is undoubtedly the future of Indian playback singing.She received the filmfare award for the best female singer along with Kavita Krishnamurty for the song “dola re” from the film Devdas, picturised on Madhuri Dixit and Aiswariya Rai. Her other hits songs include “jadu hai nasha hai” from the film Jism. She also amazed the listeners with the song “piyu bole, piya bole” picturised on Vidya Balan, from the film Parineeta, where Sonu Nigam sang it for Saif Ali Khan. The sweetness of her voice matched the period (late 19th century) when singers of the Bengali traditional families used to present their talent in soft style

She also the song “apne aansoo peene ke liye” from the film Paheli, very well, along with powerful performance from Rani Mukherjee and Shahrukh Khan in the film. She also received filmfare award for the best singer for her song in the film Guru, titled “barsdo re” composed by AR Rehman.
She had song notable Bengali songs like “pagla hawa” in The Bong Connection, “mon diye mon niye” in Agnipath, etc. In 2010, her song “bahara bahara” in the film I Hate Luv Stories was striking. She was extremely sweet in the duet song “tu ne to palbhar me chori kiya re jiya” with Sonu Nigam, in the film Dabanng, which went to do a business worth 150 crores. With a number of songs which are going to be released in different films in 2011, she is expected to continue her good work and the viewers and listeners expect her best in the years to come.

Happy birthday to Shashi Kapoor.

Happy birthday to Shashi Kapoor.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Shashi Kapoor on 18th March, 2011. Last year he received the filmfare lifetime achievement award. In 2011, he received Padmabhushan, the civilian award for his excellence in bollywood films. His sickness prevents him from freely walking, but he receives most of his awards on wheel chair.

Born in 1938, Shashi Kapoor started his acting career in the film Aag in 1948 directed by his elder brother Raj Kapoor. He also showed his acting skills as a child artist in the film Awara in 1951. The film won different awards in international film festivals and ended up being super hit.

Shashi Kapoor acted in off-beat films at the beginning of his career like Prempatra opposite Sadhna. He entertained the audience with the film Jab Jab Phool Khilen in 1965. All the songs of Rafi composed by Kalyanji Anandji in the film became super hit like “pardesiyon se na”, “yahan mai ajnabee hoon”, “na na karke pyar”, etc. From that time Shashi Kapoor acted with Nanda in a number of films like Muhabbat Is Ko Kehte Hai, Neend Hamari Khwab Tumhari, etc.

In the late 60s Shashi Kapoor acted in many romantic films like Pyar Kiye Jaa, Kanyadaan, Abhinetri, etc. In Pyar Kiye Ja, he acted opposite actress Nanda, in Kanyadan he acted opposite Asha Parekh, in Abhinetri he acted opposite Hema Malini. In the 70s, Shashi Kapoor acted in action films along with Amitabh Bacchan, at a time when action films dominated either types of films in bollywood.

His dialogue in the film Dewaar opposite Big B titled “mere paas ma hai” became immortal over the years. He acted in many films opposite Big B like Shaan, Do Aur Do Paanch, Iman Dharam, Namakhalal, Suhaag, Kala Pathhar, Kabhi Kabhi,Trishul, Silsila, etc., and most of those films ended up being blockbusters. It was his sheer talent, that he could adapt himself in the new regime of anti-establishment films in the 70s, starting from Dewaar, which were quite different from the society shown in the romantic films of the 60s.

He was a close friend of Ismail Merchant and featured in many of his English films like Siddharta. He produced impressive films like Junoon directed by Shyam Benegal and Vijeta directed by Govind Nihalini. His sons Kunal Kapoor and Karan Kapoor acted in many films.

In the 1990s, Shashi Kapoor put on a lot of weight and stopped acting. He was in tears to receive the filmfare lifetime achievement award. The viewers pay homage to the veteran actor.

Bhupen Hazarika and his achievements.

Bhupen Hazarika and his achievements.

The listeners of music in India and Bengal admire the great creations of maestro Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. The great singer, lyricist, poet and composer was born on 8th September, 2010. He was born in Sadiya, in Assam in 1926.

He had done MA from Benaras Hindu University. He did his PhD from Columbia University, New York, USA in 1954. While studying in Columbia University, New York, USA he came in close contact with eminent singer Paul Robson, who taught him landmark songs. Bhupen Hazarika’s song “we are in the same boat brother” was the creation of Paul Robson.

He returned back and made a major contribution to Assamese film industry with his songs. He made the Bengali listeners flabbergasted with his brilliant songs. The songs were not only romantic, but more than that had provided social message.

Some of his brilliant compositions included “manush manusheri jonyo”, “ami ek jajabor”, “bistirnodi pare ashonkho manusher hahakar shune nistaba nirabe o ganga tumi o ganga boicho keno”, “ganga amar ma”, etc. The song “bistirno duperer ashonkho manunsher” was translated in different languages in the country including the language hindi. He composed music in Uttam Kumar’s film Jibon Trishna, where his song “sagar sangame satar ketechi koto”, became extremely popular.

He composed songs for other landmark singers like Lata Mangeshkar titled “rangila bhashite ke bajae”, Hemant Kumar titled “e dola e dola”, Subir Sen titled “ogo shakuntala”, Ruma Guha Thakurta titled “ek phalli megh bheshe elo akashe”, to name a few.

He received national award for his music in the film Chameli Memsaab in 1977. He received Padmabhushan and also Dadasaheb Phalke award. His composition of music in the film Rudali, with Lata’s song “dil hum hum kare” had made the viewers spellbound. He composed the songs in the film Rudaali based on the Rajasthani folk songs that became famous through usage.

His other brilliant songs included “saratbabu khola chithi”, “ek khana megh bheshe elo akashe”, “jibon khuje paabi”, etc.

One article is too small to bring forward the achievements of the great singer, composer and creator Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. It can be said that he was one of the greatest genius that Assam had produced during the golden age. There are statues of the legend made in Guwahati, the capital of Assam.

The musiclovers expect him to continue the great work that he start 60 years ago and pray for his long life. His works should be restored.

Happy birthday to Committed Star Amir Khan.

Happy birthday to Committed Star Amir Khan.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Mr. Perfectionist and Committed Star Amir Khan on 14th of March, 2011. He has proved himself as one of the most committed actors of modern bollywood films. He also carried on the legacy of Tragedy King Dilip Kumar of acting in less number of films and meaningful films. He started his career with the hit film Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak in 1988 opposite Juhi Chawla.

His film had brought back the era of romantic films, after bollywood was loaded with action films for more than 20 years. The music of Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak composed by Anand Milind and majority of songs sung by Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik created history. The popular songs included “aye mere humsafar”, “papa kehte hai”, etc. The film did excellent business and Amir Khan became a star at the early part of his career.

From that time onwards Amir Khan acted in many romantic films like Hum Hai Rahi Pyar Ke, opposite Juhi Chawla, Ishq opposite Juhi Chawla, Dil opposite Madhuri Dixit, Mann opposite Manisha Koirala. Being a relative of Nasir Hussain, Amir Khan showed his acting skills from the beginning of his career. He gave able lips in most of the songs of Udit Narayan and with passage of time showed his versatility in different types of films.

He did extremely well in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s film Lagaan. Lagaan was based on the story of Indian farmers entering into a challenge with the British Govt. during the colonial rule. A cricket match was held between the British team and the Indian peasants. The condition was that if the Indians won it, the farmers would be excused of the share of produce that they supposed to give the landlords and the British Govt. of such. Amir Khan gave training to the rural Indians and ultimately won the match amidst odds.

Amir Khan was sublime in his performance in patriotic film based on the life Mangal Pandey and he did an excellent job in the film Sarfarosh. Even as a director he showed innovative vision by making a film on the subject related to children. The film Taren Zameen Par showed that every child in the world is special. They have their innovative qualities. The job of the teachers and the academicians should be to unearth their skills The songs in the film composed by Shankar Ehsaan Loy were also sensational.

Even in 2008, Amir Khan’s film Ghajini was remarkable in nature. He played the role of a person who lost his memory every 20 minutes. He took revenge against the murder of his girlfriend, but he did it with his limitation in respect of the lost memory. He had played probably the role of his career. He came out with even greater hit film in 2009, The 3 idiots. The film had done more than 200 crores business till now. Even more than that the film directed by Raj Kumar Hirani, had a serious social message to give. The message is that the parents should not overburden the students with their own choices. Students should be allowed to specialize in the line they love and enjoy. Although filmfare awards had not been fare to Amir Khan, it does not matter for Amir Khan at all. He is the actor of the refined section of audience and will remain there for periods to come. In 2010, his venture Peepli Live had been ably appreciated by the critics and the audience as a whole.

In 2011, his film Dhobi Ghaat did well in most part of India. He had acted well in the film. He also requested hall owners not to give break in the film, because it takes away the concentration in the film. He is a very cultured actor and the viewers have lot of hope on the thoughtful personality for innovative ventures in the years to come.

Salil Choudhury's Bengali and hindi version of songs.

Salil Choudhury’s Bengali and hindi version of songs.

Salil Choudhury was one of rare class of intellectual who embraced Bengali and films with his eternal treasure of music. His words and tunes matched one another in both the versions.In the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s he experimented with many songs made both for Bengali modern version and gave the same song with a different version in bollywood films.

His song “jhir jhir jhir jhir jhir borosa” sung by Dhananjoy Bhattacharya composed by Salil Choudhury in the film Pasher Bari who remade in hindi with the title “jhir jhir jhirjhir” sung by Lata Mangeshkar with equal brilliance. Dhananjoy Bhattacharya’s classical touch was balanced by Lata Mangeshkar with her own unique style.

Shyamal Mitra’s brilliant modern song “Jodi kichu amare sudhao” was remade with the title “dil tarpe tarpaye” sung by Rafi in the film Poonam Ki Raat. In Shyamal Mitra’s version Salil Choudhury used music for half part of the song, the rest was blank version. In Rafi’s version chorus was used at the back of Rafi’s solo. If Shyamal Mitra’s pitch was unparallel, Rafi’s romantic rendition with slight classical alaap was outstanding. It was Salil Choudhury’s sheer brilliance that he used the immortal singers in style.

Salil Choudhury’s song “ganga gangar tarange prano paddo bhasailam” sung by Sabita Choudhury in the film Ganga was remade in hindi by Manna Dey. The film Ganga was directed by Rajen Tarafdar and won many awards for its excellence. The rhythm of fishermen sailing in boats was synchronized by Salil Choudhury’s own orchestration. Salil Choudhury’s outstanding music was one of the reasons for the success of the film Ganga. The hindi version sung with the title “ganga” sung by Manna Dey. Manna Dey brought the folk flavor in style. The other song in film Ganga sung by Manna Dey titled “uthali pathali amar book” was remade in the hindi by Hemant Kumar with the title “ganga aye kahan se”. Manna Dey’s version had folk title “bhatiyali” embedded in it.

Salil Choudhury’s song “aye brishti jhepe” sung by Sandhya Mukherjee was remade in hindi titled “bhaiya re bhaiya” sung by Shusma Shresth and others. Salil Choudhury’s song “ei duniyay bhai” sung by Manna Dey and picturised on Bengali actor Chabi Biswas in the film Ekdin Ratre was remade in hindi with the title “humko samajh baithe” sung by Mukesh.

Salil Choudhury’s song “guru guru meghero mondrobahare” sung by Sabita Choudhury was remade as “o sanyasi” sung by Asha Bhosle and Yesudas. Shyamal Mitra’s song “ja jare ja ja pakhi” was remade in hindi by Mukesh with the title “door bahut abadi”. Sabita Choudhury’s song “jhilmil jhiler jole jhikimiki” sung by Sabita Choudhury was remade in hindi with the title “naam mera nimmo” sung by Lata, Manna Dey and Dwijen Mukherjee. The list can go on.

The greatness of Salil Choudhury lies in utilizing all the singing talents in Bengal and India as a whole. Singing talents in Bengal like Manobendra Mukherjee, Manna Dey, Dhananjoy Bhattacharya, Hemant Kumar, Shyamal Mitra, Sandhya Mukherjee, Sabita Choudhury were used as against the giants in Bollywood industry like Mohammad Rafi, Mukesh, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Talat Mehmood, Yesu Das and others.

Happy birthday to Fardeen Khan.

Happy birthday to Fardeen Khan.

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Fardeen Khan on 8th March, 2011. He had created an identity for himself inspite of being the son of popular bollywood star Feroz Khan. Most of the sons and daughters of the celebrities of bollywood films had always struggled due to comparison of them with their parents.

In case of Fardeen Khan, he never tried to imitate Feroz Khan. Feroz Khan was famous for his stylish performance in action films including Apradh, Dharmatma, Khote Sikke, Qurbani, Jaanbaaz, Yalgaar, etc. In most of these films he introduced Hollywood style of acting in Indian films. Fardeen Khan instead of imitating his father created a simple style of acting which suited different types of films.

His performance in the film No Entry, requires special mention. He played the character of a journalist in the film in the company of Anil Kapoor. He had an affair with Celina Jaitley, but just because he had to save Anil Kapoor, he told a lie to Lara Dutta that Bipasha Basu was his wife.

From that time onwards he just went on telling one lie after the other.He went to Mauritious for honeymoon. Even there he found Anil Kapoor and Lara Dutta and his relationship with Bipasha Basu was revealed. Both Lara Dutta and Celina Jaitley filed divorce suits against Anil Kapoor and Fardeen Khan respectively due to their relationship with Bipasha Basu. Salman Khan had to come all the way from abroad to save the situation. His playacting with Esha Deol had helped both Fardeen Khan and Anil Kapoor to ease out their relationship with their wives. Fardeen Khan’s lips in the song “kahan ho tum” was very impressive. The film had excellent songs and the comedy sequences appealed to the viewers. The film ended up being a blockbuster.

The other notable films of Fardeen Khan included Bhoot with Urmila Matondkar, Jungle with Urmila Matondkar, etc. In Bhoot he played a negative character but expressed the horror feelings to perfection when Urmila Matondkar’s spirits haunted him. The film Jungle was based on the story of Veerappan in the forests of Karnataka where he became a smuggling don. Fardeen Khan’s performance in the film Dev was also worth mentioning.

In 2009, Fardeen Khan’s film All The Best with Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgan did business worth 60 crore rupees. He played the role of the brother of Sanjay Dutt who used the pocket money to do weird acts. His friend Ajay Devgan used to give him ideas but it created more trouble for Fardeen Khan. When Sanjay Dutt came for sudden visit to his house as his flight got delayed, the chaos and confusion entertained the viewers. Fardeen Khan’s docile image in the film balanced the aggressive image of Sanjay Dutt. Bipasha Basu and Mugdha Godse complimented the stars in the film.

It is difficult for Fardeen Khan to match the popularity of Salmaan Khan or Shahrukh Khan or Hrithik Roshan in the present time. But even with his limited popularity he has created an identity with which he can be categorized. The viewers expect Fardeen Khan to explore himself further in bollywood films in future.