The London Indian Film Festival launches from July 15-20 in London with a range of cutting-edge movies from some of India's hottest independent talents. We aren't talking Bollywood here, but films that challenge, make you think and show a more realistic view of India today in all its colour and diversity.The London Indian Film Festival opens at Cineworld (Haymarket) on July 15 with the UK premiere of the challenging Love, Sex Aur Dhokha, (Love, Sex and Betrayal), by director, Dibakar Banerjee. Through three intertwined tales, this controversial film explores sexuality, voyeurism, love and betrayal in modern India. The film has un-known actors, but it's radical revision, challenging the romantic Indian fairy tale romance was a big box office hit when it was released in India in March. Of course being an Opening Night expect some VIPs to turn up!
Other highlights in this festival include the high-impact City of Gold, by the Maverick director, Mahesh Manjrekar, on the forgotten history of mill workers of Mumbai, whose livelihoods were crushed when the mills were converted into the glitzy shopping malls and five star hotels. Meanwhile, Last Chance Mumbai is a sophisticated multi-strand ensemble exploring the connective lives of the city's inhabitants over a 24 hour period by acclaimed director, Saeed Akhtar Mirza.
Road To Sangam directed by Amit Rai, explores ideas of Nation India and sometimes conflicting religious identity. It tells the story of one Muslim man's desire to help take Mahatma Gandhi's remaining ashes to the holy river and explores how many Muslims in India seem themselves 60 years after independence. The closing movie is the UK premiere Vihir (The Well) by award winning director Umesh Kulkarni (world premiered at Berlin), which is stunningly filmed amongst the grandeur of the rolling Indian plains of two adolescent friends who inspire each other's journey to manhood.
London INDIAN film Festival partners from across the industry are supporting the Festival. The Satyajit Foundation's Ray Short Film Competition has joined the Festival with the winning filmmaker receiving a £1,000 Award on 20 July at Cineworld, Haymarket. More guests are expected to be confirmed nearer the time
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Emraan Hashmi shows off his 4-month-old son
Emraan Hashmi has always been known as the 'Serial-Kisser' of Bollywood. However this latest issue of People magazine portrays the talented actor in a completely different light.
Like a responsible dad, Emraan says that he has no intention of letting Ayaan watch any of his movies till he's 18. However, once he is of that age, the actor wants to show him some of his best works like Murder, Gangster and Jannat.
Like a responsible dad, Emraan says that he has no intention of letting Ayaan watch any of his movies till he's 18. However, once he is of that age, the actor wants to show him some of his best works like Murder, Gangster and Jannat.
Zayed bonds with Jackky over FIFA World Cup
Who said actors can never be friends? Very few know that Zayed Khan and Jackky Bhagnani are close friends and have been ever since their childhood. The two were recently seen, having a gala time together at Jackky’s residence as they watched a match played by their favourite team.
Raavan witnessed poor opening at the box office
The much-anticipated Raavan did not fetch the desired start on Friday. While certain big city plexes opened to a 50% to 60% to 70% response, the response at smaller centre plexes and also single screens was much lower, in 20% to 25% to 30% range. Even in Mumbai, which contributes heavily from multiplexes, the occupancy was extremely erratic. In the recent past, films like Housefull, Badmaash Company, Kites and Raajneeti had opened to a terrific start and the industry was expecting a similar start for Raavan. But the reports of Raavan - the audience feedback specifically - is extremely mixed, tilting towards negative.
Fathers’ Day with Shahrukh Khan
The third Sunday of June is marked as Fathers’ Day and is celebrated all over the world. Why celebrate a Fathers’ Day? A man with all his virtues and moral values nourishes your development. He spends his hard earned money on you so that you get a better education as well as better facilities in all aspects of your life. But he never asks you anything in return for the money and love that he has showered on you. Why? Because he is your father. So, why not make him feel special for at least one day? Let us take a little time from our busy schedules and dedicate the day to this great man in our lives.Happy Fathers' Day! Then he quotes a beautiful line, “Any man can be a Father but it takes time to be a dad.”
It’s really true that the line means a lot. SRK adds, “Who is Dad? Is he the mess-maker, rule-breaker, risk-taker and the opposite of mothers, who usually acts like the creator and nurturer? But in spite of all these things, dads must be doing something quite right! I am happy to know that most of you have joined me in the ‘Pappu and Pappa’ campaign and have made a move towards being the family man by spending some quality time with your kids.”
King Khan continued, “Father’s Day is our day, to celebrate ‘being a dad’. This day comes with an opportunity to show and convey our love and care. It’s an appropriate platform to look at our children and credit them for bringing joy and happiness. After all, a child gives birth to a father as well. But even though it’s celebrated once a year, it’s the ever after effect of being a father that will keep us connected.”
Shahrukh has rightly said that. But the young children of today also need to realize the value of their fathers. Sometimes, we get so busy in our profession that at the end of the day we just want to relax and have fun with our friends. But what about that man, who have spent years of his life caring for your growth and prosperity?
In the words of Shahrukh, “A father’s role is different to different people so I cannot do justice by trying to define it. But traditionally, we hold the role of being the head of the family, protector and role models to our children. We are definitely the more unpredictable lot for our kids. At times we may have rocked our kids more than their moms and rolled on the floor foolishly to play. Moms and dads are indeed different. And we know we cannot be like the mothers but we do know that we can make all the difference by being right there.
“I understand it’s not easy but I appreciate the effort that’s being put in by all the fathers, as more and more fathers are becoming aware and taking their role and responsibility seriously, turning into great dads. For this moment, I dedicate a song for our special day…..Will Smith’s “Just the Two of Us" which celebrates fatherhood,” he signs off.
With the hope that all the children and their fathers realize the bond as well as the responsibility towards each other, we at Oneindia wish a very Happy Fathers Day to all.
It’s really true that the line means a lot. SRK adds, “Who is Dad? Is he the mess-maker, rule-breaker, risk-taker and the opposite of mothers, who usually acts like the creator and nurturer? But in spite of all these things, dads must be doing something quite right! I am happy to know that most of you have joined me in the ‘Pappu and Pappa’ campaign and have made a move towards being the family man by spending some quality time with your kids.”
King Khan continued, “Father’s Day is our day, to celebrate ‘being a dad’. This day comes with an opportunity to show and convey our love and care. It’s an appropriate platform to look at our children and credit them for bringing joy and happiness. After all, a child gives birth to a father as well. But even though it’s celebrated once a year, it’s the ever after effect of being a father that will keep us connected.”
Shahrukh has rightly said that. But the young children of today also need to realize the value of their fathers. Sometimes, we get so busy in our profession that at the end of the day we just want to relax and have fun with our friends. But what about that man, who have spent years of his life caring for your growth and prosperity?
In the words of Shahrukh, “A father’s role is different to different people so I cannot do justice by trying to define it. But traditionally, we hold the role of being the head of the family, protector and role models to our children. We are definitely the more unpredictable lot for our kids. At times we may have rocked our kids more than their moms and rolled on the floor foolishly to play. Moms and dads are indeed different. And we know we cannot be like the mothers but we do know that we can make all the difference by being right there.
“I understand it’s not easy but I appreciate the effort that’s being put in by all the fathers, as more and more fathers are becoming aware and taking their role and responsibility seriously, turning into great dads. For this moment, I dedicate a song for our special day…..Will Smith’s “Just the Two of Us" which celebrates fatherhood,” he signs off.
With the hope that all the children and their fathers realize the bond as well as the responsibility towards each other, we at Oneindia wish a very Happy Fathers Day to all.
Akshay pokes fun at corrupt politicians
Akshay Kumar recently shot for Khatta Meetha's most controversial song, 'Bull Shit', poking fun at corrupt politicians. While listening to a speech, his character - Sachin Tichkule - who is in the audience, starts coughing. When asked why, he says that he allergic to bullshit.The source continues, "Akshay feels that the roads of our country and in Mumbai are in a deplorable state with potholes and are an impediment to progress. He feels India can do so much better if the roads are better developed. Through 'Bull Shit', the Khiladi has taken on the system."
He recently shot for the song. After the actor and director Priyadarshan saw the first rushes of Khatta Meetha, they realised that it needed a theme song. "That's when 'Bull Shit' happened. Akki conceptualized it. It's a bold and controversial song and politicians will definitely get upset after seeing it." The song has been choreographed by Ganesh Acharya who calls it a 'song with a message.'
Priyan adds, "I read an interesting survey that revealed that only 30 per cent out of the budget allocated is spent on development of infrastructure while the remaining 70 per cent goes into the pockets of different people like politicians, administration and bureaucracy. Khatta Meetha is a satire and I wanted to use the word 'bullshit' to hit out as hard as possible. 'Bakwaas' may not have that power. The Censors can't delete the word as it is used in the dictionary, and is not banned. It's a gaali allowed within limits."
He isn't worried about backlash from the netas, "Let them get upset. Those politicians who haven't done any work are the ones who will get upset. If you have done something for your country you won't be guilty and react."
THE LYRICS TO BULL SHIT
I am allergic to Bull Shit (2)
Bull Shit-bull shit-bull shit
Mujhse bole mantri ji,
Desh main hai bolne ki,
Poori poori har kissi ko full azaadi
Mujhse bole mantri ji,
Desh main hai full azaadi,
Mantriji se main bolaaaaa...
Yahan bolne ki azaadi toh hai, par bolne ke baad azaadi nahi hai...
Sarak aur bridge banainge (Bull Shit)
Traffic main nahi phasain ge (Bull Shit)
Waqt pe kaam honge (Bull Shit)
He recently shot for the song. After the actor and director Priyadarshan saw the first rushes of Khatta Meetha, they realised that it needed a theme song. "That's when 'Bull Shit' happened. Akki conceptualized it. It's a bold and controversial song and politicians will definitely get upset after seeing it." The song has been choreographed by Ganesh Acharya who calls it a 'song with a message.'
Priyan adds, "I read an interesting survey that revealed that only 30 per cent out of the budget allocated is spent on development of infrastructure while the remaining 70 per cent goes into the pockets of different people like politicians, administration and bureaucracy. Khatta Meetha is a satire and I wanted to use the word 'bullshit' to hit out as hard as possible. 'Bakwaas' may not have that power. The Censors can't delete the word as it is used in the dictionary, and is not banned. It's a gaali allowed within limits."
He isn't worried about backlash from the netas, "Let them get upset. Those politicians who haven't done any work are the ones who will get upset. If you have done something for your country you won't be guilty and react."
THE LYRICS TO BULL SHIT
I am allergic to Bull Shit (2)
Bull Shit-bull shit-bull shit
Mujhse bole mantri ji,
Desh main hai bolne ki,
Poori poori har kissi ko full azaadi
Mujhse bole mantri ji,
Desh main hai full azaadi,
Mantriji se main bolaaaaa...
Yahan bolne ki azaadi toh hai, par bolne ke baad azaadi nahi hai...
Sarak aur bridge banainge (Bull Shit)
Traffic main nahi phasain ge (Bull Shit)
Waqt pe kaam honge (Bull Shit)
An ode to Katrina Kaif
Katrina Kaif's beauty is worth praising, and what could be better than dedicating a couplet to her. A fan has written a poem praising Katrina's beauty and virtues which is all over the blogs and websites. This poem has inspired an entire song devoted to Katrina in Zoya Akhtar’s Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.And that’s precisely the character that the film’s director Zoya Akhtar’s father the sensitive poet Javed Akhtar will have to describe in his lyrics. He would write a song devoted to Katrina’s character.
“There was only a vague idea for such a song in Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara. But when the poem by Katrina’s fan surfaced on the net everyone felt that the lyrics describing Katrina’s character beauty and zest for life were needed”says the source.
Katrina, neck-deep in shooting, with Hrithik, Farhan and Abhay in Spain is flattered by all the attention she’s getting online and in person. “But I can’t think of anything but how to get into the character. This role requires a lot of physical preparation. I had almost no time to prepare for Zoya’s film. I delayed my departure from Mumbai till the very last minute because I wanted to enjoy the attention that Raajneeti was getting. I get attached to a film and need a transitional period between one project and the next. I didn’t get that space before coming to Spain” speaks the beauty.
But pleasure comes with a price. Katrina’s preparation for her zany character in Zoya’s film is half-complete. She needs to master many outdoor sports. Most of them are new to her. But she is working on the character in Spain. “I landed here at night and started shooting next morning, completely unprepared. But now I’m getting a hang of it”, confessed miss Kaif.
About the ode by her fan she says, “It’s flattering to have people write such wonderful lines for you. I can’t pretend to be unaffected by all the attention that I’m getting. At the same time, I can’t let it go to my head. There’s so much more to be done.”
“There was only a vague idea for such a song in Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara. But when the poem by Katrina’s fan surfaced on the net everyone felt that the lyrics describing Katrina’s character beauty and zest for life were needed”says the source.
Katrina, neck-deep in shooting, with Hrithik, Farhan and Abhay in Spain is flattered by all the attention she’s getting online and in person. “But I can’t think of anything but how to get into the character. This role requires a lot of physical preparation. I had almost no time to prepare for Zoya’s film. I delayed my departure from Mumbai till the very last minute because I wanted to enjoy the attention that Raajneeti was getting. I get attached to a film and need a transitional period between one project and the next. I didn’t get that space before coming to Spain” speaks the beauty.
But pleasure comes with a price. Katrina’s preparation for her zany character in Zoya’s film is half-complete. She needs to master many outdoor sports. Most of them are new to her. But she is working on the character in Spain. “I landed here at night and started shooting next morning, completely unprepared. But now I’m getting a hang of it”, confessed miss Kaif.
About the ode by her fan she says, “It’s flattering to have people write such wonderful lines for you. I can’t pretend to be unaffected by all the attention that I’m getting. At the same time, I can’t let it go to my head. There’s so much more to be done.”
Raavan stuns Amitabh Bachchan
Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan's hair may have turned grey but he is as energetic as the upcoming actors. He attended the special premiere of Raavan in London yesterday (June 16) and had a great time watching it.A massive turn out of fans and screaming public at the desired level - the red carpet, warmed us all up to the experience that was to follow,” he added.
The film Raavan produced and directed by Mani Ratnam was premiered in London yesterday with much fanfare. Bollywood celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Shahrukh Khan, Aishwarya Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan attended it. The film will be released worldwide tomorrow (June 18)
The film Raavan produced and directed by Mani Ratnam was premiered in London yesterday with much fanfare. Bollywood celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Shahrukh Khan, Aishwarya Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan attended it. The film will be released worldwide tomorrow (June 18)
Suniel Shetty's Red Alert is about naxalism
Bollywood hunk Suniel Shetty is best remembered for his muscles and action roles. Now, one will see a different side to his acting prowess in Anant Mahadevan's Red Alert - The War Within, which is a realistic depiction of naxalism. If one needs proof of his scintillating performance, well, the actor has won the Best Actor Award at the international film fest, the South Asian International Film Festival (SAIFF). Obviously, the actor is elated and proud of the fact that his hard work has paid off but the award has also made him conscious of roles that he would be choosing and portraying in future.The macho man Suniel is quite comfortable with giving 'shots' with guns but in Red Alert, he plays a farmer who holds the gun for the first time. So, director Mahadevan had him refer to the naive Dith Pran character in Roland Jaffe’s Killing Fields.
Suniel has not prepared for his role blindly. He is quite aware of the problem of naxalism. Ask him about his take on it and he admits that the problem is not plain black and white. It's more complex than one can imagine, according to him. He opines that naxals are often helpless people who have been exploited and their mineral ores seized and their existence threatened. One cannot just eliminate or deal with them harshly because they are our own people and not terrorists. Suniel also says that it is quite disheartening that the naxal violence has taken such shocking proportions. The actor is also aware of the fact that violence can only result in violence and the Red Belt is bleeding with violence now. The more we try to get out of this complicated situation, the more we get knotted up.
Well, now one can witness the portrayal that Suniel is so passionate about when his film releases on the 9th of July, at theatres near you
Suniel has not prepared for his role blindly. He is quite aware of the problem of naxalism. Ask him about his take on it and he admits that the problem is not plain black and white. It's more complex than one can imagine, according to him. He opines that naxals are often helpless people who have been exploited and their mineral ores seized and their existence threatened. One cannot just eliminate or deal with them harshly because they are our own people and not terrorists. Suniel also says that it is quite disheartening that the naxal violence has taken such shocking proportions. The actor is also aware of the fact that violence can only result in violence and the Red Belt is bleeding with violence now. The more we try to get out of this complicated situation, the more we get knotted up.
Well, now one can witness the portrayal that Suniel is so passionate about when his film releases on the 9th of July, at theatres near you
Shiney flying back to Delhi
Bollywood actor Shiney Ahuja will pack his bags for hometown Delhi. A decade long career with more than a dozen of films to his credit will cease temporarily. As per the orders of the Bombay High Court the actor will have to leave Mumbai after June 30, Wednesday.The court's permission was valid till last Wednesday. But, the rescheduling of the shooting made the lawyer to plead for few more day’s extension. Justice A R Joshi granted the plea and allowed him to stay in Mumbai until June 30 to complete the shoot. He can now visit the city only during the hearing of his case.
The 37 year old Shiney is married to Anupam Ahuja and the couple has a three year old daughter, Arshiya. He debuted with the critically acclaimed Hindi movie Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi. He came to Mumbai in 1996 and had appeared in a few commercials before entering the world of movies.
The 37 year old Shiney is married to Anupam Ahuja and the couple has a three year old daughter, Arshiya. He debuted with the critically acclaimed Hindi movie Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi. He came to Mumbai in 1996 and had appeared in a few commercials before entering the world of movies.
Manisha Koirala to tie the knot today
Those days are gone when Indian women used to get married before 25 years of age. Women today concentrate more on their career than on marriage. Now, this is not something out of the head, looking at the trends among the Bollywood celebrities, this point can be substantiated. Manisha Koirala, the 40 years old Bollywood diva, has finally planned to get married, and mind it she has cleared it to all that it is by no chance an arranged marriage. The marriage ceremonies will be held today in a small affair in Gokarna Forest Resort, Katmandu, but the reception is going to be a grand ball in Hotel Soaltee Crowne Plaza in Kathmandu.
Kareena too busy for her big sister's birthday
Kareena Kapoor cannot take time out for sister Karisma Kapoor's birthday (on June 25). In fact, she is so busy that her mother Babita is packing her bags for an overseas schedule ahead of the actress' return to MumbaiThe actress says she's sad, as it is one of those rare occasions that she will miss sis Karisma's birthday as well. "I have asked Lolo and Samaira to come to the airport for half an hour so we can sit and chat in the car. I don't know if Samaira can come so late at night but I'd love to have her come. I am feeling terrible that I won't see her for more than a month."
She adds. "I told Lolo to pick up a gift for herself and that I'd pick up the tab later. There's just no time for anything. I am shooting double shifts in Hyderabad - Rohit Shetty's Golmaal 3 in the day and three cell phone ads at night. After the schedule of Agent Vinod in Morocco, I join SRK's Ra.1 unit in London. I will return to India only in July-end."
There's no respite for Kareena till year-end. "I have three films to complete - Golmaal 3, Ra.1 and Agent Vinod. Then Madhur's (Bhandarkar) film starts in December. Then I am endorsing 11 brands and have performed at every award show this year. In September and October, I get busy with the promotion of Golmaal 3 and Karan's (Johar) Stepmom. In fact, I have requested Shahrukh to keep a schedule of Ra.1 in Mumbai so I can be there to promote Golmaal 3. He has agreed."
In talks
There's a buzz that Kareena has signed Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heera Mandi. Says a source close to the actress, "They're in talks. Nothing's official as of now. Bebo and Sanjay have been keen to work with each other for three years now. There's no script locked in as of now. Sanjay has offered her a couple of scripts including Heera Mandi. Once, she's done with her overseas schedules, she will meet him and discuss which script to sign. They will definitely work together next year."
She adds. "I told Lolo to pick up a gift for herself and that I'd pick up the tab later. There's just no time for anything. I am shooting double shifts in Hyderabad - Rohit Shetty's Golmaal 3 in the day and three cell phone ads at night. After the schedule of Agent Vinod in Morocco, I join SRK's Ra.1 unit in London. I will return to India only in July-end."
There's no respite for Kareena till year-end. "I have three films to complete - Golmaal 3, Ra.1 and Agent Vinod. Then Madhur's (Bhandarkar) film starts in December. Then I am endorsing 11 brands and have performed at every award show this year. In September and October, I get busy with the promotion of Golmaal 3 and Karan's (Johar) Stepmom. In fact, I have requested Shahrukh to keep a schedule of Ra.1 in Mumbai so I can be there to promote Golmaal 3. He has agreed."
In talks
There's a buzz that Kareena has signed Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heera Mandi. Says a source close to the actress, "They're in talks. Nothing's official as of now. Bebo and Sanjay have been keen to work with each other for three years now. There's no script locked in as of now. Sanjay has offered her a couple of scripts including Heera Mandi. Once, she's done with her overseas schedules, she will meet him and discuss which script to sign. They will definitely work together next year."
When Raavan meets Ra.1
Some may take it as sheer coincidence but Bollywood stalwarts Shahrukh Khan and Abhishek Bachchan bonded at the London premiere of Raavan in spite of their tight schedules. Shahrukh is currently in the city shooting for his home production Ra.1, so, he obliged when the Bachchans invited him.Ironically, Shahrukh plays a superhero in Ra.1 while Abhishek's character in Raavan is negative. Aishwarya Bachchan and Vikram are the other cast of Raavan. It is releasing worldwide today.
Juhi Chawla as a Kashmiri refugee
Director Onir's movie I am, is a tale of 4 stories woven together. It is about the issues and dilemmas that bruise the modern Indian society. One part of the stories in the film, named I am Megha, stars the beautiful Juhi Chawla in the role of a Kashmiri Pandit widow. This character is based on the life of actor Sanjay Suri’s mother.The story, revolving around the life of a refugee takes Megha (Juhi) back to Kashmir. After 20 years the lady goes back to the very house where she lived and many incidents from Urvashi Suri’s (mother of Sanjay Suri) life have been incorporated into the film.
Actor Sanjay Suri, a lead in the film confirms that , “Yes, it is loosely based on my mother’s story but it is also about coming to terms with your past. Every person who has left Kashmir will identify with that. My mother revisited Kashmir after 17 years but she didn’t visit our house in Srinagar where dad was killed”
Actor Sanjay Suri, a lead in the film confirms that , “Yes, it is loosely based on my mother’s story but it is also about coming to terms with your past. Every person who has left Kashmir will identify with that. My mother revisited Kashmir after 17 years but she didn’t visit our house in Srinagar where dad was killed”
Amitabh-Balki to make short film on Indian cinema
Even as Balki puts finishing touches to the script for his third film featuring Amitabh Bachchan in the lead, the twosome, who gave us the two extremely unconventional hits Cheeni Kum and Paa, will now be getting together for a 15-minute film celebrating 100 years of Indian cinema.The first director to start his film would be Balki. Says the director, "Doing a short film with Amitji would be a special challenge for me because I've never done a film in that format before, and neither has he. We've done numerous ads and two feature films together. Now let's see what I can do with Amitji in the 15 minutes that we'll be provided."
Balki says another film with the Big B, no matter what its duration, was imperative. "I was beginning to get withdrawal symptoms. That man is addictive. Once you work with him, there's no way you can resist working with him over and over again."
While the challenge of creating a 15-minute full and comprehensive film replete with a plot and a background score will be taken up by Balki in the pre-winter months, at the end of the year, he'll start his third feature film with Mr. Bachchan. Apparently, it would be the Big B's most intensely romantic film since Yash Chopra's Kabhi Kabhie in 1975. And no, this time there would be no Abhishek Bachchan.
Balki says another film with the Big B, no matter what its duration, was imperative. "I was beginning to get withdrawal symptoms. That man is addictive. Once you work with him, there's no way you can resist working with him over and over again."
While the challenge of creating a 15-minute full and comprehensive film replete with a plot and a background score will be taken up by Balki in the pre-winter months, at the end of the year, he'll start his third feature film with Mr. Bachchan. Apparently, it would be the Big B's most intensely romantic film since Yash Chopra's Kabhi Kabhie in 1975. And no, this time there would be no Abhishek Bachchan.
Deepak Dobriyal's encounter with a dead girl
Think bizarre and Deepak Dobriyal comes to mind. After getting our goat with his animal attachment, the quirky actor went ghost hunting while shooting for Anand Rai's Tanu Weds Manu, a few days ago.
The villagers told them that a young girl had jumped into the well and committed suicide because the local panchayat had not agreed to her getting married to a boy from the village. They said that sometimes people could see her face in the water. That people often went to the well to ask for blessings from the spirit for getting luck in love. So a group from the unit set off to see the well late that night.
Director Anand Rai says, "Deepak told us this whole story. The villagers also said it's true, but none of us saw her face when we went to the well, except Deepak. It was an enjoyable walk, though a bit spooky!"
Says a unit source, "We're shooting in Kapurthala near Jalandhar. Late one night, Deepak told everyone about a haunted well, where you can see the face of a woman in the water. Deepak sounded so convincing that the unit decided to check with the villagers."
The villagers told them that a young girl had jumped into the well and committed suicide because the local panchayat had not agreed to her getting married to a boy from the village. They said that sometimes people could see her face in the water. That people often went to the well to ask for blessings from the spirit for getting luck in love. So a group from the unit set off to see the well late that night.
Director Anand Rai says, "Deepak told us this whole story. The villagers also said it's true, but none of us saw her face when we went to the well, except Deepak. It was an enjoyable walk, though a bit spooky!"
Anupam bids goodbye to Dear friend Hitler
There was a lot of Buzz about the veteran actor Anupam Kher playing the German dictator Adolf Hitler in a Bollywood film titled Dear Friend Hitler. Anupam Kher, opted out of the project stating, “I wish to withdraw from the film because it is creating ill feelings among my fans and I respect their sentiments. I was never affected by commercial considerations but social opinions always matter to me.”
Kher is now shooting for Mausam in Edinburgh, Scotland. Kher said that the critics have no idea about the script of the film, which do not glorify Hitler. Echoing the same feeling, director Rakesh Ranjan Kumar said, “People protesting against the film, has taken it the wrong way.”
A small Jewish community in India has protested against the film, which led Kher to take this stand. The film has been facing criticism mainly from European media. It is said that the film does not depict the usual anti-Hitler stance. In fact, speaking about the film, the director Rakesh Ranjan Kumar stated, “It will depict Hitler’s love for India and his indirect contribution to the Indian independence. I want to show his personality, his charisma and insecurities during the last few days of his life.”
Kher is now shooting for Mausam in Edinburgh, Scotland. Kher said that the critics have no idea about the script of the film, which do not glorify Hitler. Echoing the same feeling, director Rakesh Ranjan Kumar said, “People protesting against the film, has taken it the wrong way.”
Abhishek says Bollywood is bigger than Hollywood
London, (ANI): Abhishek Bachchan, India's leading actor, has said that it is Bollywood, not Hollywood, that leads the world's film industry. Bachchan was speaking at the world premiere of his latest movie, Raavan, at London's British Film Institute.India has the largest film industry in the world. We sell twice the amount of tickets that Hollywood does," Sky News quoted Bachchan as saying.
"They are at a threshold where people have suddenly developed this love for Indian cinema. But I don't think it's going to be this huge rage in the English-speaking world. There is always a language barrier and that is something that has to be respected," he added.
"They are at a threshold where people have suddenly developed this love for Indian cinema. But I don't think it's going to be this huge rage in the English-speaking world. There is always a language barrier and that is something that has to be respected," he added.
American media praises Raavan to heavens
The taste of the Indians and the West is certainly different. While many Indian critics chose to take a dig at yesterday's release Raavan and dubbed it as 'boring', their counterparts in America observed it differently. Leading publication houses in the US like New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Variety and Hollywood Reporter praised it to heavens.
The Los Angeles Times described Raavan as an entertainer. “Raavan has Bollywood glamour aplenty, with the lovely if occasionally dramatically challenged Aishwarya Bachchan, Mr. Bachchan’s wife, playing the Sita stand-in. The real star, though, is Mr. Ratnam, a talented visual storyteller who directs action crisply and fills the screen with striking images,” it reported.
The praises don't end there. Praising the film and its maker Mani Ratnam, Variety reported, “A cop and self-styled Robin Hood face off in a wild and brawny contest in Mani Ratnam's bullets-and-dance spectacle Raavan,” adding, “ Fabulous locales and lush surroundings provide a great backdrop, with Ratnam carefully matching the work of two cinematographers, Santosh Sivan and V. Manikandan. Hollywood Reporter also described Raavan as a Pan-Indian saga with epic sweep, intense emotion and gorgeous images.
Well, it will interesting to see how Raavan fairs at the box office, after having received mixed response from Indian media and rave reviews from American media. Watch out for this film featuring Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Bachchan and Vikram!
“Director Mani Ratnam and his colleagues give Bollywood fans full value. Ratnam’s pace is steadfastly brisk, and his film is replete with dizzying camerawork, myriad complications, violent mayhem, broad humor, usual musical interludes, a cliffhanging climactic confrontation and a finish that strikes a note of poignancy,” reported The New York Times. “Raavan is overlong and drawn out by Hollywood standards, but is of typical running time for Bollywood. In any event, its cast and crew are to be congratulated for their unflagging stamina and energy,” it added.
The Los Angeles Times described Raavan as an entertainer. “Raavan has Bollywood glamour aplenty, with the lovely if occasionally dramatically challenged Aishwarya Bachchan, Mr. Bachchan’s wife, playing the Sita stand-in. The real star, though, is Mr. Ratnam, a talented visual storyteller who directs action crisply and fills the screen with striking images,” it reported.
The praises don't end there. Praising the film and its maker Mani Ratnam, Variety reported, “A cop and self-styled Robin Hood face off in a wild and brawny contest in Mani Ratnam's bullets-and-dance spectacle Raavan,” adding, “ Fabulous locales and lush surroundings provide a great backdrop, with Ratnam carefully matching the work of two cinematographers, Santosh Sivan and V. Manikandan. Hollywood Reporter also described Raavan as a Pan-Indian saga with epic sweep, intense emotion and gorgeous images.
Well, it will interesting to see how Raavan fairs at the box office, after having received mixed response from Indian media and rave reviews from American media. Watch out for this film featuring Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Bachchan and Vikram!
Rahul Bose's 'Fall'Add to hotlist
Arthouse actor Rahul Bose has recently shot a seven-minute film titled 'The Fall', directed by Sandip Bandhopadhyay. Photographed by Vishal Sinha (of 'Bhoot') the film is about a suicidal lover - it is about a frustrated man whose life changes on meeting a woman (played by Nauheed Cyrusi of 'Lakeer' and 'Supari'). Sounds interesting, what?
Rahul Bose And Celebrities Are All Set To Run In Mumbai Marathon
Rahul Bose the versatile actor is all set to sweat and run for the Mumbai Marathon. Rahul's initiation 'The Foundation' which works in the area to prevent discrimination of any kind is all set to run for Mumbai Marathon, this time along with eminent personalities like Aparna Sen, Amitav Ghosh, Konkona Sen Sharma, Shabana Azmi, Javed Akhtar and Teesta Setalvad, who have joined hands with 'The Foundation' to spread the message of non-discrimination.
'The Foundation' has enabled 6 children Animesh, Bindu, Jinu, Matrena, Pratima and Rukhsar, selected from over 100 schools of the islands for Andaman Nicobar Scholarship Initiative (ANSI), are also running the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon to cover the distance between the Islands and the mainland. They are currently studying at the Rishi Valley School as part of the ANSI education program to create a platform of equal opportunities coming from neglected areas.
'The Foundation' has enabled 6 children Animesh, Bindu, Jinu, Matrena, Pratima and Rukhsar, selected from over 100 schools of the islands for Andaman Nicobar Scholarship Initiative (ANSI), are also running the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon to cover the distance between the Islands and the mainland. They are currently studying at the Rishi Valley School as part of the ANSI education program to create a platform of equal opportunities coming from neglected areas.
When a 10-year-old romance meets a Punjabi Jatt
Yes, I am talking about the love story of Raj and Simran who met on a train 500 weeks back. The train is still chugging along in Maratha Mandir, Mumbai every day after Amrish Puri Saab gives his nod of approval in three simple words - 'Jaa Simran Jaa'. To join the celebrations and fall in love (yet again), the epic love story 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' by Aditya Chopra releases all over India once more. No one would have imagined in their wildest dreams in 1995 that when the movie would be re-released, it would come face to face with Sunny paaji's comic-thriller 'Jo Bole So Nihal' and Shyam Benegal's historic epic 'Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose'. And how much do we love this weekend treat when all the three releases seem pretty inviting!
DDLJ's 9th print in 13 years!
The first time teaming up of Aditya Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, is running in its 13th year at Maratha Mandir cinema in Bombay.
The film entered its 679th week in Bombay on 17th October 2008, which means that it recently entered its 14th year in Bombay. But since it was released at Maratha Mandir a few weeks after its premiere release, it is in its 13th year at Maratha Mandir. And in these 13 years, eight prints of the film have been changed. The film is being screened with the ninth print currently. Of course, it goes without saying that the film yields a share every week even now!
Well, that must be another addition to the innumerable records that DDLJ already has.
The film entered its 679th week in Bombay on 17th October 2008, which means that it recently entered its 14th year in Bombay. But since it was released at Maratha Mandir a few weeks after its premiere release, it is in its 13th year at Maratha Mandir. And in these 13 years, eight prints of the film have been changed. The film is being screened with the ninth print currently. Of course, it goes without saying that the film yields a share every week even now!
Well, that must be another addition to the innumerable records that DDLJ already has.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Cheap Domains?
With all the competition from the domain name registrars and their affiliates, it is not very hard to find cheap domains these days. In fact, most registrars are boasting “lower-than-ever prices” and other great deals. Finding cheap domains is as simple as typing the term “cheap domain” into a search engine and choosing from a long list of online candidates.
As with any other commodity, when supply exceeds demand, prices tend to drop. The expansion of top-level domain extensions and second-level domain character space has created greater possibilities for domain names. It is now possible to choose any combination of 67 characters for a domain name. The original limit was 26 characters. Because of this, consumers are aware that domain names are not such a rare commodity and will search for companies who offer rock-bottom, cheap domain registration prices.
The good news is that cheap domains are not necessarily bad domains. Because there is a greater supply of available domain names, registrars are required to maintain a high level of service less the customer seek registration elsewhere. Cheap domains can be bought with comprehensive technical features and support. Some of the features offered include domain forwarding, domain locking, total DNS control, and twenty-four hour customer support.
Cheap domains vary in price depending on the top-level domain extension. Prices begin at $4.95 per year for an extension like .info. The .com, .net, and .org extension usually costs about $7.95 per year. They are slightly higher in price because they are the most popular and widely-used extensions. Registrars offer several different ways to register a cheap domain. You can register a new domain name or transfer a domain name to the registrar’s database. You may also backorder an active domain name. You will be advised of when it expires so that you can claim it at that time.
Cheap domains are just about everywhere you turn on the Internet. Compile a list of possible domain names, try several extensions and you will be on your way to owning a low-cost domain.
As with any other commodity, when supply exceeds demand, prices tend to drop. The expansion of top-level domain extensions and second-level domain character space has created greater possibilities for domain names. It is now possible to choose any combination of 67 characters for a domain name. The original limit was 26 characters. Because of this, consumers are aware that domain names are not such a rare commodity and will search for companies who offer rock-bottom, cheap domain registration prices.
The good news is that cheap domains are not necessarily bad domains. Because there is a greater supply of available domain names, registrars are required to maintain a high level of service less the customer seek registration elsewhere. Cheap domains can be bought with comprehensive technical features and support. Some of the features offered include domain forwarding, domain locking, total DNS control, and twenty-four hour customer support.
Cheap domains vary in price depending on the top-level domain extension. Prices begin at $4.95 per year for an extension like .info. The .com, .net, and .org extension usually costs about $7.95 per year. They are slightly higher in price because they are the most popular and widely-used extensions. Registrars offer several different ways to register a cheap domain. You can register a new domain name or transfer a domain name to the registrar’s database. You may also backorder an active domain name. You will be advised of when it expires so that you can claim it at that time.
Cheap domains are just about everywhere you turn on the Internet. Compile a list of possible domain names, try several extensions and you will be on your way to owning a low-cost domain.
Free Domain
To be totally honest, there is no such thing as a free domain. Obtaining a domain is going to cost something. The cost may differ depending on the company, but you will ultimately have to pay something to receive a domain.
There are companies that offer domains that are free of monetary expenses. This may seem like it is absolutely, positively, no-strings-attached free, but it is not. Companies like these offer free websites, but they come with many stipulations for keeping the free website. One specific domain registration company, called DotTK, offers up to three free domain names. However, there must already be an established website for the domain to link to. You may not register the domain name and then create the website at a later date. Also, the domain must receive a minimum of twenty-five web visitors within the first ninety days. If this does not occur, DotTK will repossess the domain and then give it to some other user. While you are essentially getting a free domain, you are giving up all legal and transfer rights to the domain. Those rights stay with DotTK.
The other option when trying to get a free domain is to get it through a web hosting company. You need a web hosting company to provide space for your website. Otherwise, your website will not be posted online. Web hosting companies recognize this and try to make it more convenient for you to display a website online. They are aware that you must pay the web hosting fee. So, they offer free domain names to their customers. Therefore, you will pay a fee to have the sight hosted and you will seemingly have a free domain. However, many feel that the monthly web hosting fees include the domain fees.
The advantage of obtaining a free domain through a low-cost web hosting service is that it usually comes with additional freebies. Some bonus features include: domain forwarding, auto-responders, email forwarding, bulk domain registration options, tremendous disk space, website templates, and more. The majority of these services have excellent customer and technical support. Even though you are paying for the free domain, you are getting quality service. Remember, you get what you pay for. That has never ceased to be true.
There are companies that offer domains that are free of monetary expenses. This may seem like it is absolutely, positively, no-strings-attached free, but it is not. Companies like these offer free websites, but they come with many stipulations for keeping the free website. One specific domain registration company, called DotTK, offers up to three free domain names. However, there must already be an established website for the domain to link to. You may not register the domain name and then create the website at a later date. Also, the domain must receive a minimum of twenty-five web visitors within the first ninety days. If this does not occur, DotTK will repossess the domain and then give it to some other user. While you are essentially getting a free domain, you are giving up all legal and transfer rights to the domain. Those rights stay with DotTK.
The other option when trying to get a free domain is to get it through a web hosting company. You need a web hosting company to provide space for your website. Otherwise, your website will not be posted online. Web hosting companies recognize this and try to make it more convenient for you to display a website online. They are aware that you must pay the web hosting fee. So, they offer free domain names to their customers. Therefore, you will pay a fee to have the sight hosted and you will seemingly have a free domain. However, many feel that the monthly web hosting fees include the domain fees.
The advantage of obtaining a free domain through a low-cost web hosting service is that it usually comes with additional freebies. Some bonus features include: domain forwarding, auto-responders, email forwarding, bulk domain registration options, tremendous disk space, website templates, and more. The majority of these services have excellent customer and technical support. Even though you are paying for the free domain, you are getting quality service. Remember, you get what you pay for. That has never ceased to be true.
Best Domain Hosting?
Web Hosting Inspector ranks domain hosting companies to help consumers decide which one is right for them. This investigative service rates the following features: webpage space, bandwidth, customer support, reliability, security, speed, and company stability. These features are then averaged to reveal an overall value score. Features were rated on a 10 point scale.
iPowerWeb received the award for Best Host Overall. It was the only host that averaged 10 points for overall value. Web Host Inspector tested the domain hosting company and found that they offer the largest selection of features. Customer testimonials also revealed that consumers were completely satisfied with the service. They felt that iPowerWeb by far surpassed the competition.
StartLogic was awarded Best New Web Host. It had a 9.5 overall value rating. The domain hosting technical service impressed the Web Host Inspector with fast, responsive customer care. The company even responded quickly to questions regarding 3 rd party software. The monthly charge is only $7.95 and the new company offers a tremendous amount of bonus features for no additional cost. One gig of space (1000 megs), unlimited emails, 40 gigs of transfer, a free domain name, free marketing package and free setup in the monthly fee. In addition to all this, there is a 30-day, money-back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with the service.
The Jumpline domain hosting site won the Webmaster’s Choice award for two main reasons. First and foremost, the company will host up to six separate domains for you under one account. This makes it easier for you to control and keep track of various domains very easily. Secondly, there is a fast, efficient Site Builder tool for users to apply as a template for designing websites. The service is $14.95 per month. Web Host Inspector gave it a 9.2 rating.
The domain hosting service to obtain the Best Webspace award was Infinology. On a ten point scale, this company received a nine points. Infinology is the largest domain hosting company in the world and continues to provide great service. It has existed for many years and has always provided quality service. It’s especially admired for its reliable performance and exceptional customer service. Infinology’s overall value score was nine points.
iPowerWeb received the award for Best Host Overall. It was the only host that averaged 10 points for overall value. Web Host Inspector tested the domain hosting company and found that they offer the largest selection of features. Customer testimonials also revealed that consumers were completely satisfied with the service. They felt that iPowerWeb by far surpassed the competition.
StartLogic was awarded Best New Web Host. It had a 9.5 overall value rating. The domain hosting technical service impressed the Web Host Inspector with fast, responsive customer care. The company even responded quickly to questions regarding 3 rd party software. The monthly charge is only $7.95 and the new company offers a tremendous amount of bonus features for no additional cost. One gig of space (1000 megs), unlimited emails, 40 gigs of transfer, a free domain name, free marketing package and free setup in the monthly fee. In addition to all this, there is a 30-day, money-back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with the service.
The Jumpline domain hosting site won the Webmaster’s Choice award for two main reasons. First and foremost, the company will host up to six separate domains for you under one account. This makes it easier for you to control and keep track of various domains very easily. Secondly, there is a fast, efficient Site Builder tool for users to apply as a template for designing websites. The service is $14.95 per month. Web Host Inspector gave it a 9.2 rating.
The domain hosting service to obtain the Best Webspace award was Infinology. On a ten point scale, this company received a nine points. Infinology is the largest domain hosting company in the world and continues to provide great service. It has existed for many years and has always provided quality service. It’s especially admired for its reliable performance and exceptional customer service. Infinology’s overall value score was nine points.
Domain Registration
Names function as labels – ways of identifying things. They help us understand who or what we see and how they function. Once we are familiar with the names, we may even be able to locate people or things through association. Domain registration works in much the same way. It is a way to label your website, so that people can locate it through name association.
Each website has its own set of identifying numbers. These numbers are called IP addresses and allow computers to find the particular website. Most IP addresses are four sets of digits separated by periods. Therefore, an IP address might appear as 143.64.86.564 to identify a specific website. Domain registration creates a more simple way to access the IP address and ultimately the website. Think of how many websites we visit in a given week. Now imagine what it would be like to have to remember the IP addresses for each website. That would be very difficult. Domain registration assigns a domain name to each IP address, making websites easier to recall. This way, we only have to recall the website address as a name rather than a long series of numbers. It’s much more efficient for Internet users to visit www.mywebpage.com than trying to access the site by using 143.64.86.564.
The latest problem with domain registration is that most of the simple, unique, and catchy names are already taken. For example, www.mywebpage.com is a very clear, concise name for a website. However, many other people seek to have the same domain name. As an alternative, the domain name may be slightly modified to www.my-web-page.com or something similar. Even still, possibilities are limited. To combat this problem, new top level domains have been created, to allow for more possibilities. Some common top level domains are .org, .info, and .net. This adds flexibility in domain registration, but thousands of new websites are created daily. So, many countries are giving away or selling top level domain names for public use. For example, if you were to consider domain registration in Canada, the domain name would be www.mywebpage.ca.
While these different alternatives (modifications and top level domains) create more options, they do come with one major drawback. The popularity of the .com top level domain often overshadows the other top level domains. This may cause confusion for those trying to access the website. Many people enter .com out of habit. If they are searching for the domain registered in Canada, they will be directed to the wrong website. This is why domain registration takes a lot of consideration and research. The actual process of registering a domain name is not hard at all. It’s as simple as filling out a few electronic forms. The difficult part is finding a unique and concise domain name that is not already registered to someone else.
The best way to secure a name for domain registration is to compile a list of words and phrases related to the website. At least twenty different alternatives should be on the list. Put the words in various combinations to increase the number of selections. Then perform a free search of the master domain name database. If select a name that is already registered, you may offer to purchase it from the registrant. Sale prices may range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars
Each website has its own set of identifying numbers. These numbers are called IP addresses and allow computers to find the particular website. Most IP addresses are four sets of digits separated by periods. Therefore, an IP address might appear as 143.64.86.564 to identify a specific website. Domain registration creates a more simple way to access the IP address and ultimately the website. Think of how many websites we visit in a given week. Now imagine what it would be like to have to remember the IP addresses for each website. That would be very difficult. Domain registration assigns a domain name to each IP address, making websites easier to recall. This way, we only have to recall the website address as a name rather than a long series of numbers. It’s much more efficient for Internet users to visit www.mywebpage.com than trying to access the site by using 143.64.86.564.
The latest problem with domain registration is that most of the simple, unique, and catchy names are already taken. For example, www.mywebpage.com is a very clear, concise name for a website. However, many other people seek to have the same domain name. As an alternative, the domain name may be slightly modified to www.my-web-page.com or something similar. Even still, possibilities are limited. To combat this problem, new top level domains have been created, to allow for more possibilities. Some common top level domains are .org, .info, and .net. This adds flexibility in domain registration, but thousands of new websites are created daily. So, many countries are giving away or selling top level domain names for public use. For example, if you were to consider domain registration in Canada, the domain name would be www.mywebpage.ca.
While these different alternatives (modifications and top level domains) create more options, they do come with one major drawback. The popularity of the .com top level domain often overshadows the other top level domains. This may cause confusion for those trying to access the website. Many people enter .com out of habit. If they are searching for the domain registered in Canada, they will be directed to the wrong website. This is why domain registration takes a lot of consideration and research. The actual process of registering a domain name is not hard at all. It’s as simple as filling out a few electronic forms. The difficult part is finding a unique and concise domain name that is not already registered to someone else.
The best way to secure a name for domain registration is to compile a list of words and phrases related to the website. At least twenty different alternatives should be on the list. Put the words in various combinations to increase the number of selections. Then perform a free search of the master domain name database. If select a name that is already registered, you may offer to purchase it from the registrant. Sale prices may range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars
Domain Name Web Hosting
There really is no one specific way to find the best domain name web hosting. This is because your web hosting needs depend on several factors. You must consider what you plan to do with your website. Is it for business or personal use? How much bandwidth will you need? Will it be a simple sight for viewing only or will it be highly interactive? People who need to promote products have entirely different needs from those who use the website to actually sell products. There are so many things to consider, but once you’ve considered these things you should be able to determine which type of domain name web hosting you need.
If you plan to create a fairly simple website for viewing text and pictures, you have two options. Those not familiar with html coding should choose a free domain name web hosting company like Yahoo! Geocities or Homestead. These companies and others like them offer templates with different layout and color options to choose from. You have some room for customization, but you will not be able to add any advanced features to the website. Those familiar with html coding may want to opt for a low cost shared host. There are similar restrictions, but knowledge of html allows for a slightly larger degree of customization.
Small to mid-size businesses must consider a few more things. Companies with low interactivity and low Internet traffic may use a shared host. However, more graphic intensive sites and sites with high Internet traffic should consider domain name web hosting on a virtual private server. A virtual private server is also a shared host, but your domain shares the server with far fewer domains. Therefore, the server can handle more features on your website.
Medium-sized and large companies will want domain name web hosting on a dedicated server. Extremely large corporations may need several dedicated servers. Dedicated servers ensure that only your domain is carried on a server. The server’s sole purpose is to support your website. You never have to worry about slow bandwidth or interruptions from unrelated domains.
If you plan to provide commercial transactions on your website, ask yourself two things. How much volume (number of products) do you plan to sell during a specified period of time? How many customers you will have? These factors will determine if you only need a simple PayPal interface or if you need more. If you expect high product and customer volume, you might need to add a shopping cart, online catalogue, credit-card interface, and security certificates.
Getting the best domain name web hosting totally depends on your needs as an individual or organization. Once you figure out what those needs are, finding a host should be fairly easy.
If you plan to create a fairly simple website for viewing text and pictures, you have two options. Those not familiar with html coding should choose a free domain name web hosting company like Yahoo! Geocities or Homestead. These companies and others like them offer templates with different layout and color options to choose from. You have some room for customization, but you will not be able to add any advanced features to the website. Those familiar with html coding may want to opt for a low cost shared host. There are similar restrictions, but knowledge of html allows for a slightly larger degree of customization.
Small to mid-size businesses must consider a few more things. Companies with low interactivity and low Internet traffic may use a shared host. However, more graphic intensive sites and sites with high Internet traffic should consider domain name web hosting on a virtual private server. A virtual private server is also a shared host, but your domain shares the server with far fewer domains. Therefore, the server can handle more features on your website.
Medium-sized and large companies will want domain name web hosting on a dedicated server. Extremely large corporations may need several dedicated servers. Dedicated servers ensure that only your domain is carried on a server. The server’s sole purpose is to support your website. You never have to worry about slow bandwidth or interruptions from unrelated domains.
If you plan to provide commercial transactions on your website, ask yourself two things. How much volume (number of products) do you plan to sell during a specified period of time? How many customers you will have? These factors will determine if you only need a simple PayPal interface or if you need more. If you expect high product and customer volume, you might need to add a shopping cart, online catalogue, credit-card interface, and security certificates.
Getting the best domain name web hosting totally depends on your needs as an individual or organization. Once you figure out what those needs are, finding a host should be fairly easy.
What is Domain Name Hosting?
You have created this eye-catching website with vivid graphics and animation bouncing off of the page. It looks absolutely stunning in Frontpage, DreamWeaver, or other web design program. Unfortunately, no one else will have the privilege of seeing it without domain name hosting. Until that happens, your website is a treasure hidden from the world in a distant and undiscovered cave. Domain name hosting puts your unseen work of art on a map, so that other intrigued Internet users can easily locate it and admire its splendor.
There are special servers that store and send information for other Internet users to view. When you place your files on the server, you are allowing someone else to host your website. It’s like renting space in a museum to display your artwork. It increases exposure, because people are invited to come in and view your work in a public arena. It would be much harder to get exposure for your website if you have no place to display it.
The technical way domain name hosting works is by attaching a registered domain name to a specific code. The file transfer protocol program usually creates this code automatically when you upload your data files onto the server. Web surfers type in the domain name and are immediately connected to your website through the host server.
There are special servers that store and send information for other Internet users to view. When you place your files on the server, you are allowing someone else to host your website. It’s like renting space in a museum to display your artwork. It increases exposure, because people are invited to come in and view your work in a public arena. It would be much harder to get exposure for your website if you have no place to display it.
The technical way domain name hosting works is by attaching a registered domain name to a specific code. The file transfer protocol program usually creates this code automatically when you upload your data files onto the server. Web surfers type in the domain name and are immediately connected to your website through the host server.
Domain Registration and Hosting
There are two main processes that must be followed when placing a website on the Internet. The first task is to register a unique domain name on which to place the website. The second is to select a company to host the website. Both of these tasks are very important because they ensure that the website will be professional, memorable, and well-serviced. Instead of doing all this by oneself, registration and hosting companies provide a one-stop shop to handle all of this.
Domain registration and hosting sites walk users through all of the crucial steps of obtaining a unique domain name, Internet space, and services for their newly designed sites. Sites like these have domain name creation and search capabilities. A user can input a name in the search tool bar. The service will search the entire master domain name database to be certain that the inputted name is not already registered. If one is unsure of a domain name, the domain registration and hosting company will often create possible names for the user. The user would input key words and the service would generate several word combinations. For example, a florist wants to register a website that demonstrates that her company specializes in timely delivery of flowers. She could enter words like fast, reliable, and flowers. The registration service would then create possible domain names like flowersfast.com, reliableflowers.com, etc… In addition to creating and searching for new domain names, these dual-service sites will allow users to transfer previous domains to a single host account.
Once a domain name is registered, users must connect to a web server that gives them space to display their web pages. This is what hosting does. The domain registration and hosting company educate users on how to transfer their files onto the main server. It is a fairly simple process. Users will need to specify the host address or URL the files are being sent to, user ID, and password. They must also declare the initial remote directory (folder files will be placed in), initial local directory (folder where files are stored on hard drive), and host type which most file transfer protocol programs automatically detect. Some FTP programs also require that file types be specified. So, each text and media file should be carefully recorded.
When choosing a domain registration and hosting company, users should check to be sure that most of the following services are offered. Users will want to have access to a lot of space for text, pictures, animations, and other things. They should look for CGI-BIN in case they want to add a guestbook or other custom scripts. If the company doesn’t offer this, it should at least offer CGI email script. Users should avoid forms, because they usually entail knowing a great deal of code. For a professional look, the company should offer email forwarding. This allows emails to be sent to It makes the website seem much more authentic. These are the most basic and most ideal services to look for, but domain registration and hosting companies may offer many more features.
Depending on a users needs, he must consider the level of service he requires. Individuals or families who only want to post personal web pages or family blogs to post thoughts and pictures might only need low-level, and low cost service. These Internet users get a reasonable amount of space, basic features and access to customer service. Mid-level web hosting is ideal for don’t mind paying a bit more for additional web space and faster service. They will also avoid the clutter of low-level servers, because low-level servers profit from selling space in high volume. Large companies with lots of data to display on the Internet should choose dedicated servers. These servers offer maximum space, fool-proof security, and uninterrupted streams of data.
here is so much to do to establish an amazing website. Domain registration and hosting companies make the process efficient by offering the development and maintenance services at one place.
Domain registration and hosting sites walk users through all of the crucial steps of obtaining a unique domain name, Internet space, and services for their newly designed sites. Sites like these have domain name creation and search capabilities. A user can input a name in the search tool bar. The service will search the entire master domain name database to be certain that the inputted name is not already registered. If one is unsure of a domain name, the domain registration and hosting company will often create possible names for the user. The user would input key words and the service would generate several word combinations. For example, a florist wants to register a website that demonstrates that her company specializes in timely delivery of flowers. She could enter words like fast, reliable, and flowers. The registration service would then create possible domain names like flowersfast.com, reliableflowers.com, etc… In addition to creating and searching for new domain names, these dual-service sites will allow users to transfer previous domains to a single host account.
Once a domain name is registered, users must connect to a web server that gives them space to display their web pages. This is what hosting does. The domain registration and hosting company educate users on how to transfer their files onto the main server. It is a fairly simple process. Users will need to specify the host address or URL the files are being sent to, user ID, and password. They must also declare the initial remote directory (folder files will be placed in), initial local directory (folder where files are stored on hard drive), and host type which most file transfer protocol programs automatically detect. Some FTP programs also require that file types be specified. So, each text and media file should be carefully recorded.
When choosing a domain registration and hosting company, users should check to be sure that most of the following services are offered. Users will want to have access to a lot of space for text, pictures, animations, and other things. They should look for CGI-BIN in case they want to add a guestbook or other custom scripts. If the company doesn’t offer this, it should at least offer CGI email script. Users should avoid forms, because they usually entail knowing a great deal of code. For a professional look, the company should offer email forwarding. This allows emails to be sent to It makes the website seem much more authentic. These are the most basic and most ideal services to look for, but domain registration and hosting companies may offer many more features.
Depending on a users needs, he must consider the level of service he requires. Individuals or families who only want to post personal web pages or family blogs to post thoughts and pictures might only need low-level, and low cost service. These Internet users get a reasonable amount of space, basic features and access to customer service. Mid-level web hosting is ideal for don’t mind paying a bit more for additional web space and faster service. They will also avoid the clutter of low-level servers, because low-level servers profit from selling space in high volume. Large companies with lots of data to display on the Internet should choose dedicated servers. These servers offer maximum space, fool-proof security, and uninterrupted streams of data.
here is so much to do to establish an amazing website. Domain registration and hosting companies make the process efficient by offering the development and maintenance services at one place.
What is an Internet Domain Name?
Computers connect to and communicate with one another through a shared network or community. This shared network is comprised of host computers and client computers. Host computers allow client computers to perform tasks like sending email and browsing websites. There are numerous host computers on a network that contain all sorts of information and programs. Each host has its own distinctive Internet domain name which is the host computer’s online identity.
For example, the Microsoft Company owns a host computer that contains its website, email program, and much more. The Internet domain name is included in the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) www.msn.com. When broken down into parts, the URL basically means that a web browser uses the World Wide Web (www) to access the Microsoft host computer (msn) which is operated by a commercial entity (.com).
It is important for each organization to give its host computer a unique Internet domain name, because this is what separates this organization’s database from others. The Internet is so vast and expansive that there needs to be a navigation system for it. Without a distinctive identifying name, other computers would have no way to locate and access the organization’s host computer.
The concept of a home address demonstrates the importance of Internet domain names. To locate a specific home in a community in which all homes look the same, a person would need identifying characteristics such as street names and numerical addresses. Once the person enters the community, they must locate the street. After turning onto the correct street, they would identify the specific home by its numerical address.
The Internet works in a very similar way. For example, the Internal Revenue Service is a government organization with its own Internet domain name. In the community of the World Wide Web, the IRS is located on a particular “street”. While Microsoft is located on Commercial Street, the IRS is located on Government Street. The address of the Internal Revenue Service is the same as its abbreviation, IRS. Therefore, to locate the Internal Revenue Service on a street full of government entities, a person would find it at its Internet domain name (or address), irs.gov. The complete URL is www.irs.gov.
This explains why the Internet is often referred to as the information super-highway. Host computers connect with other computers to send and receive text, multimedia, and other data to one another. The data travels through various communities and streets until it finds the correct address or Internet domain name. A unique, yet simple Internet domain name assures that the host computer stands out on the street and is easy to find.
For example, the Microsoft Company owns a host computer that contains its website, email program, and much more. The Internet domain name is included in the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) www.msn.com. When broken down into parts, the URL basically means that a web browser uses the World Wide Web (www) to access the Microsoft host computer (msn) which is operated by a commercial entity (.com).
It is important for each organization to give its host computer a unique Internet domain name, because this is what separates this organization’s database from others. The Internet is so vast and expansive that there needs to be a navigation system for it. Without a distinctive identifying name, other computers would have no way to locate and access the organization’s host computer.
The concept of a home address demonstrates the importance of Internet domain names. To locate a specific home in a community in which all homes look the same, a person would need identifying characteristics such as street names and numerical addresses. Once the person enters the community, they must locate the street. After turning onto the correct street, they would identify the specific home by its numerical address.
The Internet works in a very similar way. For example, the Internal Revenue Service is a government organization with its own Internet domain name. In the community of the World Wide Web, the IRS is located on a particular “street”. While Microsoft is located on Commercial Street, the IRS is located on Government Street. The address of the Internal Revenue Service is the same as its abbreviation, IRS. Therefore, to locate the Internal Revenue Service on a street full of government entities, a person would find it at its Internet domain name (or address), irs.gov. The complete URL is www.irs.gov.
This explains why the Internet is often referred to as the information super-highway. Host computers connect with other computers to send and receive text, multimedia, and other data to one another. The data travels through various communities and streets until it finds the correct address or Internet domain name. A unique, yet simple Internet domain name assures that the host computer stands out on the street and is easy to find.
Domain Name Registration
Your domain name is the conduit to your website. It is the identity you give your web pages that allow surfers and customers to find you and engage in commerce with you. A catchy, memorable domain name will be your biggest asset in promoting your online enterprise.
Since the rise of the internet in the early nineties web masters and entrepreneurs have scrambled to transform the world wide web into a medium for commerce. Registering every possible product as a domain name from Toys.com and Books.com to CreditCards.com and 90DaysSameAsCash.com these savvy web masters have used up most of the valuable descriptive names and phrases.
If you are one of the lucky few to discover a virgin name then you will need an understanding of the Domain Name Registration process.
Domain Names are entries in a master data base called a registry. The domain name registry is used by computers to find other computers on the internet by cross referencing their locations or IP numbers. With the domain name registration you are entering data that relates your contact information and your host computer's IP numbers to a human friendly name that web surfers can use to find your website.
Although a once daunting task, domain name registration has become a matter of filling out online forms and entering payment information. You need to choose a registrar; registrars are the middle men responsible for tracking and maintaining the domain registry and collecting your money. There has been explosive growth in the domain name registration business since the US government deregulated the industry in 1999. Choose your registrar judiciously since he will be intrusted to safe guard your domain name.
NameSeek serves to simplify name selection and domain name registration. We have cataloged and evaluated some of the finest domain names on the internet and made them available to everyone. All NameSeek names are preregisterd so you can skip the domain name registration process all together. NameSeek names are rich in keywords and colorful phrases and are selected for maximum impact and imagery.
When your name matters most, get the best! Get it from NameSeek.
Since the rise of the internet in the early nineties web masters and entrepreneurs have scrambled to transform the world wide web into a medium for commerce. Registering every possible product as a domain name from Toys.com and Books.com to CreditCards.com and 90DaysSameAsCash.com these savvy web masters have used up most of the valuable descriptive names and phrases.
If you are one of the lucky few to discover a virgin name then you will need an understanding of the Domain Name Registration process.
Domain Names are entries in a master data base called a registry. The domain name registry is used by computers to find other computers on the internet by cross referencing their locations or IP numbers. With the domain name registration you are entering data that relates your contact information and your host computer's IP numbers to a human friendly name that web surfers can use to find your website.
Although a once daunting task, domain name registration has become a matter of filling out online forms and entering payment information. You need to choose a registrar; registrars are the middle men responsible for tracking and maintaining the domain registry and collecting your money. There has been explosive growth in the domain name registration business since the US government deregulated the industry in 1999. Choose your registrar judiciously since he will be intrusted to safe guard your domain name.
NameSeek serves to simplify name selection and domain name registration. We have cataloged and evaluated some of the finest domain names on the internet and made them available to everyone. All NameSeek names are preregisterd so you can skip the domain name registration process all together. NameSeek names are rich in keywords and colorful phrases and are selected for maximum impact and imagery.
When your name matters most, get the best! Get it from NameSeek.
What is a Domain?
A Domain is where you hang out. If you hang out in New York City then NYC is your domain. In computer jargon a domain is the network where your computer hangs out, either a local subnet or on the internet.
A domain is a group of networked computers that contain a common communication address and share common resources. Domains are based on a hierarchical naming scheme or a tree structure called the Domain Namespace. In a namespace, names are used to represent other types of information such as IP Numbers.
Computers use IP or Internet Protocol numbers to find each other in a network. These numbers typically look like 192.168.122.244. To make it easy on humans the IP numbers are given friendly names known as Domain Names. Yahoo.com and Google.com are domain names and are much easier to remember than 216.109.112.135
Networks use a distributed data base known as the Domain Name System to translate the human friendly names into IP numbers computers can use. Computers will query other computers known as Name Servers to translate the domain names to numbers. The whole Domain Name System is designed to be transparent to the end user. The only thing the user has to remember is the Domain Name of the site they wish to visit.
NameSeek makes it easy for website owners and entrepreneurs to find exciting and memorable names that will bring business and traffic to your domain again and again.
A domain is a group of networked computers that contain a common communication address and share common resources. Domains are based on a hierarchical naming scheme or a tree structure called the Domain Namespace. In a namespace, names are used to represent other types of information such as IP Numbers.
Computers use IP or Internet Protocol numbers to find each other in a network. These numbers typically look like 192.168.122.244. To make it easy on humans the IP numbers are given friendly names known as Domain Names. Yahoo.com and Google.com are domain names and are much easier to remember than 216.109.112.135
Networks use a distributed data base known as the Domain Name System to translate the human friendly names into IP numbers computers can use. Computers will query other computers known as Name Servers to translate the domain names to numbers. The whole Domain Name System is designed to be transparent to the end user. The only thing the user has to remember is the Domain Name of the site they wish to visit.
NameSeek makes it easy for website owners and entrepreneurs to find exciting and memorable names that will bring business and traffic to your domain again and again.
Yahoo Domain
Yahoo hosting is as little as $7/month -- throw in a free domain registration and this is an extremely good deal. These types of free registrations with hosting are a great way to buy additional descriptive and long tail keyword domains to point to your core business website. By throwing extra weight to your main site or domain name, you are setting yourself up for a very low cost marketing strategy of your brand. Also, by obtaining all of the domains that are similar to your core brand, you are eliminating the chance for any of your competitors to offer a confusingly similar product or service. Try Yahoo domains to increase and round out your online assets.
The well-known Internet portal Yahoo! has joined the domain name business. The company now offers domain name registration services through its Yahoo! Small Business division. This sector of Yahoo is devoted to helping entrepreneurs get their businesses up and running by providing assistance like recruiting services, marketing tools and web hosting. The next reasonable step is to offer branded Yahoo domain registration. It’s another tool which will help business establish an online presence.
PC Magazine reviewed Yahoo Domains and gave it the highly-coveted Editor’s Choice Award. The published review states that “domain registration through Yahoo! Small Business is the easiest.” The statement reflects the level of service that one receives through a Yahoo Domain. It offers great features like domain forwarding, email forwarding, control panel with DNS management, and the most popular top-level domains. Knowledgeable customer service is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week and the call is toll-free. In addition to this, one to five-year registration plans are available.
Yahoo! Domains also makes upgrading very easy for those who want to expand to other Yahoo! services. Customers may upgrade to receive a personal custom mailbox or business mail package which reflects the domain name. Users may also transfer their Yahoo! domain from another web host to Yahoo! Web Hosting. If the customer needs help creating an online store, they may summon the help of Merchant Solutions which is a program that will help them manage online sales.
PC Magazine said that a Yahoo Domain was the easiest. It is quite possible to claim that the service is one of the cheapest. It offers all of the aforementioned features for only $4.98 per year at the time of this writing. With so many wonderful features at such a low price, it is hard to overlook an offer like this one.
The well-known Internet portal Yahoo! has joined the domain name business. The company now offers domain name registration services through its Yahoo! Small Business division. This sector of Yahoo is devoted to helping entrepreneurs get their businesses up and running by providing assistance like recruiting services, marketing tools and web hosting. The next reasonable step is to offer branded Yahoo domain registration. It’s another tool which will help business establish an online presence.
PC Magazine reviewed Yahoo Domains and gave it the highly-coveted Editor’s Choice Award. The published review states that “domain registration through Yahoo! Small Business is the easiest.” The statement reflects the level of service that one receives through a Yahoo Domain. It offers great features like domain forwarding, email forwarding, control panel with DNS management, and the most popular top-level domains. Knowledgeable customer service is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week and the call is toll-free. In addition to this, one to five-year registration plans are available.
Yahoo! Domains also makes upgrading very easy for those who want to expand to other Yahoo! services. Customers may upgrade to receive a personal custom mailbox or business mail package which reflects the domain name. Users may also transfer their Yahoo! domain from another web host to Yahoo! Web Hosting. If the customer needs help creating an online store, they may summon the help of Merchant Solutions which is a program that will help them manage online sales.
PC Magazine said that a Yahoo Domain was the easiest. It is quite possible to claim that the service is one of the cheapest. It offers all of the aforementioned features for only $4.98 per year at the time of this writing. With so many wonderful features at such a low price, it is hard to overlook an offer like this one.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Top 5 dancing numbers of Madhuri Dixit
Madhuri Dixit, one of Bollywood’s greatest actresses will celebrate her 42nd birthday on 15th May. Madhuri Dixit is also considered by all to be the best dancer in Bollywood, trained in the Kathak style of Indian classic dance, she is also superb in modern choreography. Madhuri has shades of a truly great dancer and its treat to watch her dance. Here’s a look at the top five dancing numbers of Madhuri.
5. Key sara sara (Pukar):“Key sara sara” was choreographed by Prabhudeva, one of the best dancers and choreographers in the Indian film industry. The steps were western in style, and their performance shows what exceptional dancers he and Madhuri are. Madhuri took it as a challenge. Madhuri confessed that Prabhudeva kept her on toes, on knees, on head, on hands, everywhere. Chemistry of two great dancers was admired by everyone.
4. Maar Daala (Devdas): Maduri’s comeback and one of her best performances ever, so beautiful was her movements. It is just an awe-inspiring dance. As appreciated by director Sanjay Leela Bhansali “One can go mad just looking at her songs. This song had one of the biggest sets in Indian cinema and the way she performed was a dream. The first time she did the Mar Dala step I whistled and clapped in sheer excitement. It was an exercise in expressions. With every shot, Mar Dala had a different expression. I wished I could shoot the song for a year because I wouldn’t get tired of watching her dance.”
3. Choli Ke Peeche (Khalnayak): Lyric and choreography of this song stirred up some controversy but Madhuri had faith in choreographer Saroj Khan. Madhuri performed this number gracefully that people were not able to criticize much . Throughout the piece she has such a quality of movement and some of the steps she does are quite breathtaking.
2. Akhiyan Milau (Raja): This time Madhuri’s eyes were sufficient to attract audience. One of her most popular dances and was a rage when it released. It is modern choreography and Madhuri shows she can dance that amazingly as well. Choreographer Saroj Khan wants whole thing with Madhuri’s eyes, not with her hands or her face. So the first line had to be emoted through my eyes. Madhuri did full justice with the song.
1. Ek do teen (Tezaab): Overnight, Madhuri was a star after this song. This dance is considered one of her best performances and is listed on everyone’s favorite list. The energetic choreography is a mixture of modern and classical Indian steps, and Madhuri dances it effortlessly. It’s a memorable song for Madhuri as well as for choreographer Saroj Khan.
5. Key sara sara (Pukar):“Key sara sara” was choreographed by Prabhudeva, one of the best dancers and choreographers in the Indian film industry. The steps were western in style, and their performance shows what exceptional dancers he and Madhuri are. Madhuri took it as a challenge. Madhuri confessed that Prabhudeva kept her on toes, on knees, on head, on hands, everywhere. Chemistry of two great dancers was admired by everyone.
4. Maar Daala (Devdas): Maduri’s comeback and one of her best performances ever, so beautiful was her movements. It is just an awe-inspiring dance. As appreciated by director Sanjay Leela Bhansali “One can go mad just looking at her songs. This song had one of the biggest sets in Indian cinema and the way she performed was a dream. The first time she did the Mar Dala step I whistled and clapped in sheer excitement. It was an exercise in expressions. With every shot, Mar Dala had a different expression. I wished I could shoot the song for a year because I wouldn’t get tired of watching her dance.”
3. Choli Ke Peeche (Khalnayak): Lyric and choreography of this song stirred up some controversy but Madhuri had faith in choreographer Saroj Khan. Madhuri performed this number gracefully that people were not able to criticize much . Throughout the piece she has such a quality of movement and some of the steps she does are quite breathtaking.
2. Akhiyan Milau (Raja): This time Madhuri’s eyes were sufficient to attract audience. One of her most popular dances and was a rage when it released. It is modern choreography and Madhuri shows she can dance that amazingly as well. Choreographer Saroj Khan wants whole thing with Madhuri’s eyes, not with her hands or her face. So the first line had to be emoted through my eyes. Madhuri did full justice with the song.
1. Ek do teen (Tezaab): Overnight, Madhuri was a star after this song. This dance is considered one of her best performances and is listed on everyone’s favorite list. The energetic choreography is a mixture of modern and classical Indian steps, and Madhuri dances it effortlessly. It’s a memorable song for Madhuri as well as for choreographer Saroj Khan.
Bollywood for Beginners
Many of you, dear readers, are totally bollyobsessed and can name a film from just one line. However, some of you are just starting out discovering this magical world and so since I was once like you, and would have loved to have this article, I thought why not write it? So now we present Bollywood for Beginners.
When you first saw the word Bollywood you probably thought, “Bollywood”? What is that, a typo? But do not worry, you read correctly. The Indian (aka Hindi) Film Industry is more commonly known as “Bollywood”. Many of the big film production companies are based in Mumbai, India, formerly known as Bombay, and the “B” was borrowed along with an homage to Hollywood, and we have Bollywood! It is the largest film industry in the world, producing over 800 films a year, with ticket sales in the billions. Bollywood productions are mostly romantic musicals, much like the old Hollywood classics with absolutely beautiful costumes, photography and scenery. They have great stories, excellent performances, and the music and dance sequences are so wonderful to watch. But I am getting ahead of myself.
To share my love, some would call obsession, with Bollywood movies, I need to give you a bit of background on how I first learned about them. With a lot of time on my hands because of an illness, I was catching up on some movies I had missed and one of those was Bend It Like Beckham. After seeing and really enjoying it, I thought I would like to see other films by the director Gurinder Chadha. I went to the Internet and read that her next film was going to be a version of Pride and Prejudice, one of my absolute favorite books. The film, called Bride and Prejudice, is a musical Indian-infused version of the book. I rented it and within the first few moments I was entranced. About halfway through I was ready to start watching it again. (To me, that is a sign of a movie to go on my all-time-favorite-I-must-buy-now list!). The colors were gorgeous, the music wonderful, the story so well done. The songs enhanced the movie and made it so different from the many films I had seen. The film starred Aishwarya Rai and Martin Henderson. As a matter of interest, Aishwarya Rai is one of the biggest stars in Bollywood today. I loved it so much that I watched the DVD extras, and in “the making of” segment the director said that it was her tribute to Bollywood. Since I had never heard of Bollywood before I went to the Internet again to find out more information. To make a long story short, I found out that Netflix had just bought a Bollywood library so I logged on, searched for Bollywood, picked a film and the rest as they say is history.
That film was Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and one of the reasons I chose it was that it said it is the longest running film in Bollywood history. In fact, it is still running in theaters today after debuting in 1995. Again, halfway through I was ready to start watching the film from the beginning - I called my husband and told him I had found the “perfect movie”. This gem is the epitome of what Bollywood films are, encompassing all that makes it great: brilliant actors, spectacular musical numbers, outstanding scenery and costumes and a wonderful moving story. The plot centers around the classic boy meets girl, girl hates boy, boy falls in love with girl and she does too but does not realize it storyline ... I would tell you more but I really want you to see this film and don’t want to give too much away. Let’s just say this film began my wonderful journey into the world of Bollywood and forever will be one of my favorite films.
But enough about me - let me whet your Bolly-appetite some more. Bollywood covers every genre: drama, comedy, action and, of course, romance. A single film can even have all of that rolled into one; in Bollywood that film is called a masala, which means, “spice mixture” in Hindi. (Yes, I have begun Hindi lessons.) Many stories revolve around forbidden relationships but can also be about crime, betrayal, friendship, war, fate and did I mention romance yet? Family and cultural traditions play an immense role in the films, especially in the older movies. In most of the films you will never see the boy and girl kiss, however times are a changing and in some of the newer films it is starting to happen more. These thoroughly entertaining movies can run anywhere from 2 hours to 4 hours, but no matter what the length, you always wish they did not end. Let me warn you, though many are happy endings, you do not find out if they end up together until the very last second: it is maddening!! The movies are filmed all around India, with frequent location shoots in Switzerland, England, Australia and, more recently, the United States. All the films are in Hindi but if seen on DVD or in a theater here in the States they will have subtitles. You will also notice that they do speak some “Hindlish”: a mixture of Hindi and English. For example, “Woh actor, Vivek Oberoi, bahut handsome hai!” (That actor is very handsome.)
An integral part of the films and what makes Bollywood, well, Bollywood, are the song and dance numbers. Most films will have 4 to 6 songs and the numbers fit perfectly within the movie; they serve both to entertain and to move the story along. The music encompasses every musical style, not only Indian, and in one album you can hear a ballad, a hip/hop song, a pure Punjabi Bhangra, and some songs even have a mix of all them. The music is brilliant, the singers incredible, and, as they would say, “it is just too good!” The soundtracks for the movies release a month or so before the films open in theaters, and sometimes the albums are more eagerly anticipated than the films. Even though I only understand a word or two, my iTunes and iPod are full of the songs - in fact it is about the only thing I listen to now.
A little fun fact that I did not find out until after watching a few films films is that the actors and actresses are not actually doing the singing: they are lip-synching to what are called “playback singers”. For the biggest stars, it can be the same playback singer for each film, but sometimes it is someone else, and it can seem odd when you have to match different voices to the same face. The singers, who you might expect to be uncredited, are actually famous in their own right in Bollywood, and after a bit you recognize when you hear a certain singer even if they are singing playback for different actors. Fans have their favorites as well, and at award shows there are categories for Best Song and Best Playback singer, male and female. Some of the more famous are Sonu Nigam and Sunidhi Chauhan.
The fantastic choreography encompasses all types of dance including: classical Indian dance, jazz/hip hop, modern and sometimes a fusion of all these styles. Often there is also one number called an “item number” which has a special guest appearance of a star, usually doing a very sexy number. Like in many stylized films, sometimes you have to suspend reality a bit - during some songs, the city-bound hero and heroine are suddenly in the snow on a mountain in Switzerland, bounding through blooming sunflower fields, or riding on the top of a bus surrounded with singing people (you will see this kind of thing a lot). Just go with it, enjoy it, and hey, if you can escape into another world, that is one of the joys of watching movies hai na? (Hindi: Right?) Though not a part of what we are used to in Hollywood films, the song and dance sequences are one of my favorite things. They enrich the film and make the movies even better. I know you will love them!
On to movie recommendations. I will just list a few here, but believe me I have many many more favorite films. For your first Bollywoodish film I would definitely recommend Bride and Prejudice (2005, dir. Gurinder Chadha). The language is English, but will give you a taste of what Bollywood is like. It is not a “true Bollywood film”, and many of my Indian friends and fellow bolly buffs would gasp at me suggesting this but watching this movie is what hooked me and made me want to see more!!
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995, dir. Aditya Chopra, lit. “The Brave Heart Will Take the Bride”) is another must-see. Starring two of the superstars of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, it is everything that makes a Bollywood film wonderful. Remember the lead pair’s names if you continue on your journey, because you will be seeing them a lot. In fact, another great film with the two of them is Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998, dir. Karan Johar, lit. “Something Is Happening”): add that to your list of Bollywood movies to see.
Parineeta (2005, dir, Pradeep Sarkar, lit. “The Married Woman”) is one of my top-of-the-list favorites. It is another love story, but old-fashioned, based on a classic Indian novel. The hero and heroine are brilliant in their roles as Shekhar and Lolita (not that Lolita!). The music for this film is also one of my very favorites. It is a good “introduction to Bollywood” film and, at only just under 2 hours, it’s a good one to get used to reading subtitles!
Two of my favorite actors, Rani Mukerji and Vivek Oberoi, starred opposite each other in a film called Saathiya (2002, dir. Shaad Ali, lit. “Partner”). This is an intriguing film from a Bollywood perspective, because it takes the couple-in-love beyond marriage and into the rough waters beyond. Definitely add this one to your list. Doesn’t hurt that they are both absolutely gorgeous!
Chori Chori (2003, dir. Milan Luthria, lit. “Stealthily Stealthily”) is a remake of the film Hollywood film Housesitter, which starred Goldie Hawn and Steve Martin. I think Chori Chori is the better film, although I enjoyed both, because it adds in the music and a few extra facets to the story. A great performance by the lead pair, Rani Mukerji and Ajay Devgan, makes the movie really enjoyable. Have watched this one many times!
Mujhse Dosti Karoge (2003, dir. Kunal Kohli, lit. “Will you be my friend”) is another favorite film of mine, starring the gorgeous Hrithik Roshan, Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor. I have watched this movie over and over again and never tire of it. If you like him (which I am sure you will) he was also in India’s first ever Superhero movie, Krrish (2006, dir. Rakesh Roshan, name of character) A great film, that is full of romance, action and coolness. One of 2006 biggest hits!
Jab We Met (2007, dir. Imtiaz Ali, lit. “When We Met”) just came out last year and it was one of the most popular movies of 2007. The lead actress Kareena Kapoor won a Filmfare award (along the same lines as an Oscar) for her portrayal as Geet and her co-star Shahid Kapoor was also nominated! Brilliant romantic fun film!
If you love dance then a must see is Aaja Nachle, (2007, dir. Anil Mehta, lit. “Come Dance with Me”). It is my personal favorite film of 2007. This one has an ensemble cast, with each actor portraying their role perfectly. A dancer makes it in America, but comes home to India to save her teacher’s school. The highlight of the film is the 30-minute play at the end, put on by the townspeople; brilliant, stunning and lots of other adjectives!
I have many more to recommend but I will stop there...oh wait you must see Bunty aur Babli (2005, dir, Shaad Ali, lit. Bunty and Babli are the names of the two main characters) which is a Bonnie-and-Clyde-with-hearts-of-gold comedy that has disguises, cons, music, a cool, neck-cracking cop, one of the best item numbers ever done, and, of course, love.
Those should get you started for the romances; there are also a few dramas that will show you the depth and outstanding talent of these actors.
Black (2005, dir. Sanjay Leela Bhansali), pure art. I sat stunned at the end of this movie; the actors’ performances are some of the best I have ever seen in any film.
Veer Zaara (2004, dir. Yash Chopra, Veer and Zaara are the names of the hero and heroine), is another love story but not in the classic sense, just one you really should experience. (It is my husband’s favorite Bollywood movie.)
Devdas (2002, dir. Sanjay Leela Bhansali, name of title character) a sad but brilliant film again based on a classic Indian novel.
Rang De Basanti’s (2006, dir. Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra, lit. “Paint it Saffron”) ensemble cast is incredible, released in 2006 this film was India’s entry for both the Oscars and the Golden Globes. This movie tops the list of many people’s Must See Bollywood films.
Jodhaa Akbar (2008, dir. Ashutosh Gowariker, names of lead characters) is an epic along the lines of Cleopatra. It stars two of the biggest names in Bollywood, the gorgeous Hrithik Roshan and the beautiful Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The majesty of the film is truly amazing and the performances WAH! (Bravo!) This one has to go on your I must see this film list!
Again, I have many many more recommendations; these will just give you a taste. Ooh I have to mention that when this film comes out on DVD it is a MUST see Taare Zameen Par (2007, dir. Aamir Khan, lit. “Stars on Earth”).
So how can you see one of these films? Netflix has a full library - they have all of the films I have recommended to you and the many more I would if I could go on and on and on. I believe Blockbuster is getting more and more titles as well. A visit to your friendly neighborhood or perhaps across town Indian grocery store will surely have films to rent. If you follow in my footsteps and come to love these films you will begin to eagerly await new releases, and fortunately many of Bollywood’s new releases are now being shown in movie theaters all over the US and the world. However, if you can’t get to the theater, or if like me you live in a small town, Netflix usually gets them a few weeks after they release on DVD so you can get your fix!
I could praise Bollywood for many more pages but I hope I have given you a glimpse into this exciting genre of movies. If you want a night of really good entertainment I can highly recommend getting lost in a Bollywood film! If you love unique stories, colorful pageantry, real human emotion, music, seeing and learning about other cultures, and great films containing some of the best actors and actresses in the world, then be sure to GO BOLLYWOOD!
When you first saw the word Bollywood you probably thought, “Bollywood”? What is that, a typo? But do not worry, you read correctly. The Indian (aka Hindi) Film Industry is more commonly known as “Bollywood”. Many of the big film production companies are based in Mumbai, India, formerly known as Bombay, and the “B” was borrowed along with an homage to Hollywood, and we have Bollywood! It is the largest film industry in the world, producing over 800 films a year, with ticket sales in the billions. Bollywood productions are mostly romantic musicals, much like the old Hollywood classics with absolutely beautiful costumes, photography and scenery. They have great stories, excellent performances, and the music and dance sequences are so wonderful to watch. But I am getting ahead of myself.
To share my love, some would call obsession, with Bollywood movies, I need to give you a bit of background on how I first learned about them. With a lot of time on my hands because of an illness, I was catching up on some movies I had missed and one of those was Bend It Like Beckham. After seeing and really enjoying it, I thought I would like to see other films by the director Gurinder Chadha. I went to the Internet and read that her next film was going to be a version of Pride and Prejudice, one of my absolute favorite books. The film, called Bride and Prejudice, is a musical Indian-infused version of the book. I rented it and within the first few moments I was entranced. About halfway through I was ready to start watching it again. (To me, that is a sign of a movie to go on my all-time-favorite-I-must-buy-now list!). The colors were gorgeous, the music wonderful, the story so well done. The songs enhanced the movie and made it so different from the many films I had seen. The film starred Aishwarya Rai and Martin Henderson. As a matter of interest, Aishwarya Rai is one of the biggest stars in Bollywood today. I loved it so much that I watched the DVD extras, and in “the making of” segment the director said that it was her tribute to Bollywood. Since I had never heard of Bollywood before I went to the Internet again to find out more information. To make a long story short, I found out that Netflix had just bought a Bollywood library so I logged on, searched for Bollywood, picked a film and the rest as they say is history.
That film was Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and one of the reasons I chose it was that it said it is the longest running film in Bollywood history. In fact, it is still running in theaters today after debuting in 1995. Again, halfway through I was ready to start watching the film from the beginning - I called my husband and told him I had found the “perfect movie”. This gem is the epitome of what Bollywood films are, encompassing all that makes it great: brilliant actors, spectacular musical numbers, outstanding scenery and costumes and a wonderful moving story. The plot centers around the classic boy meets girl, girl hates boy, boy falls in love with girl and she does too but does not realize it storyline ... I would tell you more but I really want you to see this film and don’t want to give too much away. Let’s just say this film began my wonderful journey into the world of Bollywood and forever will be one of my favorite films.
But enough about me - let me whet your Bolly-appetite some more. Bollywood covers every genre: drama, comedy, action and, of course, romance. A single film can even have all of that rolled into one; in Bollywood that film is called a masala, which means, “spice mixture” in Hindi. (Yes, I have begun Hindi lessons.) Many stories revolve around forbidden relationships but can also be about crime, betrayal, friendship, war, fate and did I mention romance yet? Family and cultural traditions play an immense role in the films, especially in the older movies. In most of the films you will never see the boy and girl kiss, however times are a changing and in some of the newer films it is starting to happen more. These thoroughly entertaining movies can run anywhere from 2 hours to 4 hours, but no matter what the length, you always wish they did not end. Let me warn you, though many are happy endings, you do not find out if they end up together until the very last second: it is maddening!! The movies are filmed all around India, with frequent location shoots in Switzerland, England, Australia and, more recently, the United States. All the films are in Hindi but if seen on DVD or in a theater here in the States they will have subtitles. You will also notice that they do speak some “Hindlish”: a mixture of Hindi and English. For example, “Woh actor, Vivek Oberoi, bahut handsome hai!” (That actor is very handsome.)
An integral part of the films and what makes Bollywood, well, Bollywood, are the song and dance numbers. Most films will have 4 to 6 songs and the numbers fit perfectly within the movie; they serve both to entertain and to move the story along. The music encompasses every musical style, not only Indian, and in one album you can hear a ballad, a hip/hop song, a pure Punjabi Bhangra, and some songs even have a mix of all them. The music is brilliant, the singers incredible, and, as they would say, “it is just too good!” The soundtracks for the movies release a month or so before the films open in theaters, and sometimes the albums are more eagerly anticipated than the films. Even though I only understand a word or two, my iTunes and iPod are full of the songs - in fact it is about the only thing I listen to now.
A little fun fact that I did not find out until after watching a few films films is that the actors and actresses are not actually doing the singing: they are lip-synching to what are called “playback singers”. For the biggest stars, it can be the same playback singer for each film, but sometimes it is someone else, and it can seem odd when you have to match different voices to the same face. The singers, who you might expect to be uncredited, are actually famous in their own right in Bollywood, and after a bit you recognize when you hear a certain singer even if they are singing playback for different actors. Fans have their favorites as well, and at award shows there are categories for Best Song and Best Playback singer, male and female. Some of the more famous are Sonu Nigam and Sunidhi Chauhan.
The fantastic choreography encompasses all types of dance including: classical Indian dance, jazz/hip hop, modern and sometimes a fusion of all these styles. Often there is also one number called an “item number” which has a special guest appearance of a star, usually doing a very sexy number. Like in many stylized films, sometimes you have to suspend reality a bit - during some songs, the city-bound hero and heroine are suddenly in the snow on a mountain in Switzerland, bounding through blooming sunflower fields, or riding on the top of a bus surrounded with singing people (you will see this kind of thing a lot). Just go with it, enjoy it, and hey, if you can escape into another world, that is one of the joys of watching movies hai na? (Hindi: Right?) Though not a part of what we are used to in Hollywood films, the song and dance sequences are one of my favorite things. They enrich the film and make the movies even better. I know you will love them!
On to movie recommendations. I will just list a few here, but believe me I have many many more favorite films. For your first Bollywoodish film I would definitely recommend Bride and Prejudice (2005, dir. Gurinder Chadha). The language is English, but will give you a taste of what Bollywood is like. It is not a “true Bollywood film”, and many of my Indian friends and fellow bolly buffs would gasp at me suggesting this but watching this movie is what hooked me and made me want to see more!!
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995, dir. Aditya Chopra, lit. “The Brave Heart Will Take the Bride”) is another must-see. Starring two of the superstars of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, it is everything that makes a Bollywood film wonderful. Remember the lead pair’s names if you continue on your journey, because you will be seeing them a lot. In fact, another great film with the two of them is Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998, dir. Karan Johar, lit. “Something Is Happening”): add that to your list of Bollywood movies to see.
Parineeta (2005, dir, Pradeep Sarkar, lit. “The Married Woman”) is one of my top-of-the-list favorites. It is another love story, but old-fashioned, based on a classic Indian novel. The hero and heroine are brilliant in their roles as Shekhar and Lolita (not that Lolita!). The music for this film is also one of my very favorites. It is a good “introduction to Bollywood” film and, at only just under 2 hours, it’s a good one to get used to reading subtitles!
Two of my favorite actors, Rani Mukerji and Vivek Oberoi, starred opposite each other in a film called Saathiya (2002, dir. Shaad Ali, lit. “Partner”). This is an intriguing film from a Bollywood perspective, because it takes the couple-in-love beyond marriage and into the rough waters beyond. Definitely add this one to your list. Doesn’t hurt that they are both absolutely gorgeous!
Chori Chori (2003, dir. Milan Luthria, lit. “Stealthily Stealthily”) is a remake of the film Hollywood film Housesitter, which starred Goldie Hawn and Steve Martin. I think Chori Chori is the better film, although I enjoyed both, because it adds in the music and a few extra facets to the story. A great performance by the lead pair, Rani Mukerji and Ajay Devgan, makes the movie really enjoyable. Have watched this one many times!
Mujhse Dosti Karoge (2003, dir. Kunal Kohli, lit. “Will you be my friend”) is another favorite film of mine, starring the gorgeous Hrithik Roshan, Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor. I have watched this movie over and over again and never tire of it. If you like him (which I am sure you will) he was also in India’s first ever Superhero movie, Krrish (2006, dir. Rakesh Roshan, name of character) A great film, that is full of romance, action and coolness. One of 2006 biggest hits!
Jab We Met (2007, dir. Imtiaz Ali, lit. “When We Met”) just came out last year and it was one of the most popular movies of 2007. The lead actress Kareena Kapoor won a Filmfare award (along the same lines as an Oscar) for her portrayal as Geet and her co-star Shahid Kapoor was also nominated! Brilliant romantic fun film!
If you love dance then a must see is Aaja Nachle, (2007, dir. Anil Mehta, lit. “Come Dance with Me”). It is my personal favorite film of 2007. This one has an ensemble cast, with each actor portraying their role perfectly. A dancer makes it in America, but comes home to India to save her teacher’s school. The highlight of the film is the 30-minute play at the end, put on by the townspeople; brilliant, stunning and lots of other adjectives!
I have many more to recommend but I will stop there...oh wait you must see Bunty aur Babli (2005, dir, Shaad Ali, lit. Bunty and Babli are the names of the two main characters) which is a Bonnie-and-Clyde-with-hearts-of-gold comedy that has disguises, cons, music, a cool, neck-cracking cop, one of the best item numbers ever done, and, of course, love.
Those should get you started for the romances; there are also a few dramas that will show you the depth and outstanding talent of these actors.
Black (2005, dir. Sanjay Leela Bhansali), pure art. I sat stunned at the end of this movie; the actors’ performances are some of the best I have ever seen in any film.
Veer Zaara (2004, dir. Yash Chopra, Veer and Zaara are the names of the hero and heroine), is another love story but not in the classic sense, just one you really should experience. (It is my husband’s favorite Bollywood movie.)
Devdas (2002, dir. Sanjay Leela Bhansali, name of title character) a sad but brilliant film again based on a classic Indian novel.
Rang De Basanti’s (2006, dir. Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra, lit. “Paint it Saffron”) ensemble cast is incredible, released in 2006 this film was India’s entry for both the Oscars and the Golden Globes. This movie tops the list of many people’s Must See Bollywood films.
Jodhaa Akbar (2008, dir. Ashutosh Gowariker, names of lead characters) is an epic along the lines of Cleopatra. It stars two of the biggest names in Bollywood, the gorgeous Hrithik Roshan and the beautiful Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The majesty of the film is truly amazing and the performances WAH! (Bravo!) This one has to go on your I must see this film list!
Again, I have many many more recommendations; these will just give you a taste. Ooh I have to mention that when this film comes out on DVD it is a MUST see Taare Zameen Par (2007, dir. Aamir Khan, lit. “Stars on Earth”).
So how can you see one of these films? Netflix has a full library - they have all of the films I have recommended to you and the many more I would if I could go on and on and on. I believe Blockbuster is getting more and more titles as well. A visit to your friendly neighborhood or perhaps across town Indian grocery store will surely have films to rent. If you follow in my footsteps and come to love these films you will begin to eagerly await new releases, and fortunately many of Bollywood’s new releases are now being shown in movie theaters all over the US and the world. However, if you can’t get to the theater, or if like me you live in a small town, Netflix usually gets them a few weeks after they release on DVD so you can get your fix!
I could praise Bollywood for many more pages but I hope I have given you a glimpse into this exciting genre of movies. If you want a night of really good entertainment I can highly recommend getting lost in a Bollywood film! If you love unique stories, colorful pageantry, real human emotion, music, seeing and learning about other cultures, and great films containing some of the best actors and actresses in the world, then be sure to GO BOLLYWOOD!
Raavan Music Review
Mani Ratnam's upcoming bilingual venture Raavan hardly needs an introduction. Nor does the composer of the album, A R Rahman. The name conjures expectations in the highest amount possible. Not to mention, every time the cinematic genius and the music maestro join hands for a venture nothing short of 'amazing' is the end product, be it Dil Se, Yuva or Bombay. So, does Raavan's soundtrack live up to its enormous expectations? Read on to find out.
Beera
Vijay Prakash, Mustafa Kutoane and Keerthi Sagathia commence the album with a track that can be described as being supremely rich. 'Beera' is rich in its vocals, its instruments and its melody. Rahman is known to experiment with a range of instruments. In 'Beera', he keeps up this unique style of his and uses a variety of peculiar percussion to give an almost tribal feel to the song. This use of percussion is a highlight of the album. Point to note is that one of the most celebrated musical maestros of the nation, the Late RD Burman, was well known for his use of odd instruments in attaining the sound he envisioned, a sign of a musical genius perhaps. Along with the peculiar percussion, there is the presence of the classic acoustics which create a great blend with the other instruments. Lyrics are given by Gulzar, who is perhaps the only lyricists in the industry at present who can match up to the brilliance of Rahman's composition. The moment you hear the song you know that it's describing the inherent qualities of Raavan (who guessing by the lyrics has been renamed 'Beera') that we've heard from Valmiki's Ramayan such as his ten heads/ten foreheads and his character defining ego. One doesn't expect a song describing the villain of all villains, Raavan, to be so enjoyable and catchy but the magic of Rahman makes the impossible possible. This one you'll be singing along with just seconds into the song!
Behne Do
The next track is equally impressive and innovative. 'Behne Do' features Karthik in a totally divine avatar as usual. The singer has been hiding down South for way too long, so its great to see his talent finally getting more exposure. Additional vocals are given by Mohamed Irfan. The creating of a fusion with two vocals is quite impressive and enhances the track immensely. The beauty of the song is its ability to transform in various genres. From soft contemporary, it changes to rock beat at the chorus - the ability to transform compositions in this way has always been a strong trait of Rahman's. Lyrics are once again by Gulzaar and are the highlight of this one. The lyricist uses the most creative ways to describe mad love, love that simply cannot be contained anymore. This song is likely to be used to set the scene of Raavan's attraction. It's a beautiful number that surely will bring a lot of acclaim for all those involved.
Thok De Killi
Sukhwinder Singh enters next with Am'Nico in a fusion rock number and once again Rahman uses a variety of percussion to create the track's desired feel. Rahman creates a track that is loud without being noisy. It's loud, but with a distinct melody, which 99% of composers fail to do these days. Gulzar's lyrics are specific to the situation in which this song will be picturised, so you'll surely be eager to see how this song is shown onscreen. It's shame that we have been accustomed to such poorly crafted lyrics in recent times that a song like 'Thok De Killi' leaves us baffled because of the calibre of writing of Gulzar's lyrics. When a lyricist gives us such profound words we struggle to understand - perhaps following the lyrics written in the album handouts will bring more clarity and understanding of the song. Sukhwinder Singh and Am'Nico are the highlight of this track because their distinct voices are the essential ingredients in creating a number like this. Another flawless number on the album.
Ranjha Ranjha
At last a lady enters the album, Rekha Bhardwaj of 'Genda Phool' (Delhi 6) fame, and along with her is Javed Ali. This is another track that cannot be put in a specific genre. It strongly boasts of techno styled beats throughout the track, but at the same time it makes full use of electric guitars and has a melody and vocals that is very Indian. Gulzar's lyrics are Punjabi predominantly - Punjabi perhaps because the song uses the story of Heer and Ranjha as its foundation. What's most interesting about this number is that it seems to be a different rendition to 'Pal Pal' from Swades in that it also is conversation between Sita and Raavan in which Sita is waiting for Ram to rescue her and Raavan keeps intercepting her pleas to say that she should accept him instead. 'Ranjha Ranjha' is a brilliantly crafted song - this conversation is so engrossing you simply get sucked into their world. Rekha and Javed are outstanding to say the least!
Khilli Re
Reena Bhardwaj ('Yeh Rishta', 'Meenaxi' & 'Main Vari Vari' - Mangal Pandey) brings in the one and only solo female track of the album, 'Khilli Re'. This one is a traditional classical Indian track that makes full use of a variety of Indian instruments. Reena, despite being so underused, is nothing less than singers like Shreya Ghosal. Composers really have no reason to not use her more often. It's been a while since we heard an out and out classical Indian number from Rahman, so this one is a nice change. Of course, this genre is one that is established and not a fusion of, which is what the rest of the tracks in the album are and in that way it's the lesser innovative of the other tracks. Gulzar'd elaborate Hindi is perfect for the genre.
Katta Katta
After the very gentle and soft 'Khilli Re' brace yourself for 'Katta Katta', which is along the lines 'Beera' as it is also another track that has that tribal feel. 'Katta Katta' is no doubt a celebratory number in Raavan's kingdom when he successfully abducts Sita. The track is loads of fun to listen to because Gulzaar's lyrics are just so innovative and truly give you an insight into the world of Raavan. The way the words describe Sita are especially intriguing - in particular the line "hawaayan pe chalti hai yeh chori parron se bhi halki hai" steals your attention as it seem to be saying to Raavan in a creative way "what a catch you've gotten". Goes to show that the power of this beautiful language is so great to give a poetic take on the simplest of emotions. Now if only more of our lyricists wake up to this fact music in Indian cinema would be far more impressive. Give this one multiple listens as it's got many things to discover in each listen.
The Verdict
Reviewing Raavan's soundtrack almost seems pointless because honestly the review should just be one word "Brilliant". Music lovers who've been pining for quality music, your prayers have been answered. It's also relieving to know that because the film is being handled by a name such as Mani Ratnam, the songs will be done justice to on-screen. There's nothing more hurtful than seeing a brilliant soundtrack destroyed in a film. Go buy this album with full confidence that it'll be worth more than anything you can ever pay for it. It rises above any expectations you could have possibly set for it.
Beera
Vijay Prakash, Mustafa Kutoane and Keerthi Sagathia commence the album with a track that can be described as being supremely rich. 'Beera' is rich in its vocals, its instruments and its melody. Rahman is known to experiment with a range of instruments. In 'Beera', he keeps up this unique style of his and uses a variety of peculiar percussion to give an almost tribal feel to the song. This use of percussion is a highlight of the album. Point to note is that one of the most celebrated musical maestros of the nation, the Late RD Burman, was well known for his use of odd instruments in attaining the sound he envisioned, a sign of a musical genius perhaps. Along with the peculiar percussion, there is the presence of the classic acoustics which create a great blend with the other instruments. Lyrics are given by Gulzar, who is perhaps the only lyricists in the industry at present who can match up to the brilliance of Rahman's composition. The moment you hear the song you know that it's describing the inherent qualities of Raavan (who guessing by the lyrics has been renamed 'Beera') that we've heard from Valmiki's Ramayan such as his ten heads/ten foreheads and his character defining ego. One doesn't expect a song describing the villain of all villains, Raavan, to be so enjoyable and catchy but the magic of Rahman makes the impossible possible. This one you'll be singing along with just seconds into the song!
Behne DoThe next track is equally impressive and innovative. 'Behne Do' features Karthik in a totally divine avatar as usual. The singer has been hiding down South for way too long, so its great to see his talent finally getting more exposure. Additional vocals are given by Mohamed Irfan. The creating of a fusion with two vocals is quite impressive and enhances the track immensely. The beauty of the song is its ability to transform in various genres. From soft contemporary, it changes to rock beat at the chorus - the ability to transform compositions in this way has always been a strong trait of Rahman's. Lyrics are once again by Gulzaar and are the highlight of this one. The lyricist uses the most creative ways to describe mad love, love that simply cannot be contained anymore. This song is likely to be used to set the scene of Raavan's attraction. It's a beautiful number that surely will bring a lot of acclaim for all those involved.
Thok De KilliSukhwinder Singh enters next with Am'Nico in a fusion rock number and once again Rahman uses a variety of percussion to create the track's desired feel. Rahman creates a track that is loud without being noisy. It's loud, but with a distinct melody, which 99% of composers fail to do these days. Gulzar's lyrics are specific to the situation in which this song will be picturised, so you'll surely be eager to see how this song is shown onscreen. It's shame that we have been accustomed to such poorly crafted lyrics in recent times that a song like 'Thok De Killi' leaves us baffled because of the calibre of writing of Gulzar's lyrics. When a lyricist gives us such profound words we struggle to understand - perhaps following the lyrics written in the album handouts will bring more clarity and understanding of the song. Sukhwinder Singh and Am'Nico are the highlight of this track because their distinct voices are the essential ingredients in creating a number like this. Another flawless number on the album.
Ranjha RanjhaAt last a lady enters the album, Rekha Bhardwaj of 'Genda Phool' (Delhi 6) fame, and along with her is Javed Ali. This is another track that cannot be put in a specific genre. It strongly boasts of techno styled beats throughout the track, but at the same time it makes full use of electric guitars and has a melody and vocals that is very Indian. Gulzar's lyrics are Punjabi predominantly - Punjabi perhaps because the song uses the story of Heer and Ranjha as its foundation. What's most interesting about this number is that it seems to be a different rendition to 'Pal Pal' from Swades in that it also is conversation between Sita and Raavan in which Sita is waiting for Ram to rescue her and Raavan keeps intercepting her pleas to say that she should accept him instead. 'Ranjha Ranjha' is a brilliantly crafted song - this conversation is so engrossing you simply get sucked into their world. Rekha and Javed are outstanding to say the least!
Khilli ReReena Bhardwaj ('Yeh Rishta', 'Meenaxi' & 'Main Vari Vari' - Mangal Pandey) brings in the one and only solo female track of the album, 'Khilli Re'. This one is a traditional classical Indian track that makes full use of a variety of Indian instruments. Reena, despite being so underused, is nothing less than singers like Shreya Ghosal. Composers really have no reason to not use her more often. It's been a while since we heard an out and out classical Indian number from Rahman, so this one is a nice change. Of course, this genre is one that is established and not a fusion of, which is what the rest of the tracks in the album are and in that way it's the lesser innovative of the other tracks. Gulzar'd elaborate Hindi is perfect for the genre.
Katta Katta
After the very gentle and soft 'Khilli Re' brace yourself for 'Katta Katta', which is along the lines 'Beera' as it is also another track that has that tribal feel. 'Katta Katta' is no doubt a celebratory number in Raavan's kingdom when he successfully abducts Sita. The track is loads of fun to listen to because Gulzaar's lyrics are just so innovative and truly give you an insight into the world of Raavan. The way the words describe Sita are especially intriguing - in particular the line "hawaayan pe chalti hai yeh chori parron se bhi halki hai" steals your attention as it seem to be saying to Raavan in a creative way "what a catch you've gotten". Goes to show that the power of this beautiful language is so great to give a poetic take on the simplest of emotions. Now if only more of our lyricists wake up to this fact music in Indian cinema would be far more impressive. Give this one multiple listens as it's got many things to discover in each listen. The Verdict
Reviewing Raavan's soundtrack almost seems pointless because honestly the review should just be one word "Brilliant". Music lovers who've been pining for quality music, your prayers have been answered. It's also relieving to know that because the film is being handled by a name such as Mani Ratnam, the songs will be done justice to on-screen. There's nothing more hurtful than seeing a brilliant soundtrack destroyed in a film. Go buy this album with full confidence that it'll be worth more than anything you can ever pay for it. It rises above any expectations you could have possibly set for it.
"Rohan is the boy your mother warned you about and yet secretly wants to date herself" - Kavi Shastri
Rohan Mehra, the character of Sony TV's show, Rishta.com needs no introduction for avid viewers of the show. Those that don't follow the show are missing out on a real treat. Born and bred in London, the extremely talented Kavi Shastri, who plays the role of Mehra, developed an almost instant fan following from the very first episode. Rishta.com is about a matrimonial service set up by two college friends and the goings-on within this business. Shastri, who also starred in Love Aaj Kal before making his Indian television debut, has seen his popularity sore to unforeseen heights. He also has done work on UK television programmes like The Bill and Holby City. BollySpice speaks to Kavi about his journey from London to India and his experiences in Bollywood and Rishta.com...
Did you always want to become an actor?
I always wanted to be a lawyer; acting is something that happened to me. I started acting and dancing after watching Michael Jackson on TV. I was a little hyperactive (little being an understatement, I was like a child who injected himself with E numbers every morning). So, I fell into acting. Also academically I was not sound enough, but found my mind was more motivated and better used in the arts.
Why do you love acting?
I am a child at heart. For me it's almost like playing cops and robbers as a child. Your imagination runs wild as you play with your friends, and you imagine you are the cop or robber, and you believe. That's what I do every day. I love it!
What, in particular, attracts you to a role?
It really depends. I don't really look at it in any other way than, if it excites me, I'm game!
Love Aaj Kal
How did you land the role in Love Aaj Kal? What was it like working with Saif Ali Khan on his first home production?
It happened by fluke. I headed home to London after spending 3 months in India and when I turned my phone on, I received a call from my agent. She told me in a very British accent 'a Mr Imtiaz Ali would like to meet you'. I went from the airport to the audition and 2 months later, there I was. Saif was brilliant to work with. It was his first production and my first Hindi feature so we both learnt on the job so to say.
What did you learn?
Patience is the key to success. I also picked up various things from Imtiaz as well.
Did you have to change your style of acting shooting on a Bollywood film like Love Aaj Kal, in comparison to working in UK television programmes like The Bill and Holby City?
You do have to change slightly. Really depends on you role. For me, I think I jus gelled with Imtiaz so I was able to be myself within my character, Jatt!
Rishta.com
When you first got the role of Rohan Mehra in the serial, did you anticipate that the show and your character would be as popular as it is?
I never did. After reading Rohan I honestly thought he would be loved, but not in such a huge way as he has. He has been written very well, so I don't have to do much, the dialogue seals his every move.
How much are you like Rohan?
There's a little bit of me. I think his blunt and yet compassionate side is me in reality. His Casanova side, is not me at all. I'm not too hot with that side of life. He is the boy your mother warned you about and yet secretly wants to date herself. I think there are bits of both in him.
What, in your eyes, is the most appealing aspect of a show like Rishta.com?
The dialogue is just so fresh. It doesn't leave room for anything else. I love the lines, the humour, it's very British.
What are your plans now that you've finished shooting for the first season?
First I need a holiday, then off to look for something else to sink my teeth into.
Are you going to be doing a second season?
At this moment nothing has been decided. Will keep you posted.
I Hate Love Stories
Tell us about your experience working on the film.
I would love to say it was fantastic but I can't, as I have no idea. I'm not in the film, it's a rumour. Kavin Dave (aka Husiefa Ali in Rishta.com) is in the film. According to Kavin and Imran its a blast to work on.
Do you have any funny stories that you can share?
Yes I do, I'm not in it.
How much do you now feel part of the industry coming into Bollywood from another culture?
I feel very much a part of and attached to the Indian film and television industry here. I think back in the UK we are generally exposed to the industry through various media. It's almost as if you know everyone before you even get here. It is a very small family here, so you never feel like an outsider.
What do you miss most about London?
Other than my family and Tesco, I think a good chip shop. Or a nice dirty kebab! Oh and of course the weather.
Which country do you now count as home: England or India?
They are both my homes. You make your home where ever you are in the world. When I'm in London, Mumbai is my holiday home and vice-versa.
The future
What kinds of projects will we be seeing you in next?
At the moment nothing is planned. I'm out looking for something fresh, so it's another waiting game.
Finally, is there anything you would like to say to your many fans?
I don't think I can say anything to even justify the love I have been given by my fans. I think ill just work harder for them, and try and deliver the best I can always.
Well, Kavi Shastri may have been known as the "new" heartthrob of Indian television but with his immense acting talent, humbleness, down-to-earth attitude and luring star quality are sure to guarantee that he is here to stay. We wish Kavi well with his forthcoming projects and hope that he will grace our screens for a long time to come - in TV or films.
Did you always want to become an actor?
I always wanted to be a lawyer; acting is something that happened to me. I started acting and dancing after watching Michael Jackson on TV. I was a little hyperactive (little being an understatement, I was like a child who injected himself with E numbers every morning). So, I fell into acting. Also academically I was not sound enough, but found my mind was more motivated and better used in the arts.
Why do you love acting?
I am a child at heart. For me it's almost like playing cops and robbers as a child. Your imagination runs wild as you play with your friends, and you imagine you are the cop or robber, and you believe. That's what I do every day. I love it!
What, in particular, attracts you to a role? It really depends. I don't really look at it in any other way than, if it excites me, I'm game!
Love Aaj Kal
How did you land the role in Love Aaj Kal? What was it like working with Saif Ali Khan on his first home production?
It happened by fluke. I headed home to London after spending 3 months in India and when I turned my phone on, I received a call from my agent. She told me in a very British accent 'a Mr Imtiaz Ali would like to meet you'. I went from the airport to the audition and 2 months later, there I was. Saif was brilliant to work with. It was his first production and my first Hindi feature so we both learnt on the job so to say.
What did you learn?
Patience is the key to success. I also picked up various things from Imtiaz as well.
Did you have to change your style of acting shooting on a Bollywood film like Love Aaj Kal, in comparison to working in UK television programmes like The Bill and Holby City?
You do have to change slightly. Really depends on you role. For me, I think I jus gelled with Imtiaz so I was able to be myself within my character, Jatt!
Rishta.com When you first got the role of Rohan Mehra in the serial, did you anticipate that the show and your character would be as popular as it is?
I never did. After reading Rohan I honestly thought he would be loved, but not in such a huge way as he has. He has been written very well, so I don't have to do much, the dialogue seals his every move.
How much are you like Rohan?
There's a little bit of me. I think his blunt and yet compassionate side is me in reality. His Casanova side, is not me at all. I'm not too hot with that side of life. He is the boy your mother warned you about and yet secretly wants to date herself. I think there are bits of both in him.
What, in your eyes, is the most appealing aspect of a show like Rishta.com?
The dialogue is just so fresh. It doesn't leave room for anything else. I love the lines, the humour, it's very British.
What are your plans now that you've finished shooting for the first season?
First I need a holiday, then off to look for something else to sink my teeth into.
Are you going to be doing a second season? At this moment nothing has been decided. Will keep you posted.
I Hate Love Stories
Tell us about your experience working on the film.
I would love to say it was fantastic but I can't, as I have no idea. I'm not in the film, it's a rumour. Kavin Dave (aka Husiefa Ali in Rishta.com) is in the film. According to Kavin and Imran its a blast to work on.
Do you have any funny stories that you can share?
Yes I do, I'm not in it.
How much do you now feel part of the industry coming into Bollywood from another culture?
I feel very much a part of and attached to the Indian film and television industry here. I think back in the UK we are generally exposed to the industry through various media. It's almost as if you know everyone before you even get here. It is a very small family here, so you never feel like an outsider.
What do you miss most about London? Other than my family and Tesco, I think a good chip shop. Or a nice dirty kebab! Oh and of course the weather.
Which country do you now count as home: England or India?
They are both my homes. You make your home where ever you are in the world. When I'm in London, Mumbai is my holiday home and vice-versa.
The future
What kinds of projects will we be seeing you in next?
At the moment nothing is planned. I'm out looking for something fresh, so it's another waiting game.
Finally, is there anything you would like to say to your many fans?
I don't think I can say anything to even justify the love I have been given by my fans. I think ill just work harder for them, and try and deliver the best I can always.
Well, Kavi Shastri may have been known as the "new" heartthrob of Indian television but with his immense acting talent, humbleness, down-to-earth attitude and luring star quality are sure to guarantee that he is here to stay. We wish Kavi well with his forthcoming projects and hope that he will grace our screens for a long time to come - in TV or films.
Modern Mums of Bollywood
They're just as normal as any other moms around the world with a single exception; they are popular Bollywood actresses. But this doesn't make them any different. In fact, our Bollywood moms are as normal as they get. They stay up late nights tending to their sick children, turn up at school events and even read them bedtime stories. Some of them are more modern moms and others prefer the traditional methods of upbringing. Whichever way they come, they are Maa's. On the beautiful occasion of Mother's Day, we salute and honor all Mother's around the world. Here's taking a look at some of our favorite Bollywood Moms.
Kajol: Already mom to the very cute Nysa, Kajol will be adding to her family by the end of the year. The award-winning mom has a number of films in the pipeline but has repeatedly claimed she prefers being a mom over any role in her life.
Mahima: Mahima Choudhary indulged in marriage rather quietly and gave birth even more silently. The Pardes actress has disappeared from the Bollywood scene as she is rather happy playing mom to her daughter, Aryana.
Karisma Kapoor: The Kapur nee Kapoor girl is mom to two beautiful children, Samaira and Kiaan Raj Kapoor. While Karisma plays the role of Mom incredibly well, we do hope she finally gets back to acting soon.
Madhuri Dixit: Madhuri Dixit moved to the States and gave birth to two adorable sons, Arin and Rayaan. The dancing queen's career may not have taken off post marriage, but her sons simply adore their famous mom.
Sridevi: Sridevi simply loves her two daughters, Jhanavi and Khushi. In fact, the family production house has used the girl's names in a number of films. It may take some time before we actually see the veteran actress on screen again but until then, she is quite the pretty mom!
Juhi Chawla: The giggly Juhi Chawla is probably one fun mom! She has a son, Arjun and a daughter, Jhanvi, both of whom she dotes on. The actress never completely gave up her career for a domestic lifestyle but has stated numerous times that her children come first!
Malaika Arora Khan: She has been officially crowned as India's yummiest mummy and there is no doubt about it. The svelte and sexy actress is mom to a very cute Arhaan and has declared that she is what she is because she is a hands-on mom.
Sushmita Sen: Unconventional, intelligent and sexy. One can only hope Sushmita Sen bestows the same traits to her own girls, Renee and Alisa, when they grow up. This ex-Miss Universe had no bones in adopting her girls and plays mom to them ever so beautifully.
Raveena Tandon: The mast-mast actress' post marriage may have not really kick-started but she has managed to stay fit and fine. Her daughter Rasha too possesses similar traits including owning a beautiful smile and this mom couldn't be happier.
Pooja Bedi: She has called herself a more "gypsy-like" mom and allows her children to just be. Aalia and Omar are both known as very bright children and Bedi loves playing mom to both of them.
Sonali Bendre: Sonali Bendre is known for being a doting mom to her son, Ranvir . In fact she has been named the most "Perfect Mom" within the fraternity.
Twinkle Khanna: Akshay Kumar's wife ensures that if she is a good mom, Akshay must be a better father. However, while Twinkle is the stricter of the two, son Aarav is said to be super attached to his mom.
Kajol: Already mom to the very cute Nysa, Kajol will be adding to her family by the end of the year. The award-winning mom has a number of films in the pipeline but has repeatedly claimed she prefers being a mom over any role in her life.
Mahima: Mahima Choudhary indulged in marriage rather quietly and gave birth even more silently. The Pardes actress has disappeared from the Bollywood scene as she is rather happy playing mom to her daughter, Aryana.
Karisma Kapoor: The Kapur nee Kapoor girl is mom to two beautiful children, Samaira and Kiaan Raj Kapoor. While Karisma plays the role of Mom incredibly well, we do hope she finally gets back to acting soon.
Madhuri Dixit: Madhuri Dixit moved to the States and gave birth to two adorable sons, Arin and Rayaan. The dancing queen's career may not have taken off post marriage, but her sons simply adore their famous mom.
Sridevi: Sridevi simply loves her two daughters, Jhanavi and Khushi. In fact, the family production house has used the girl's names in a number of films. It may take some time before we actually see the veteran actress on screen again but until then, she is quite the pretty mom!
Juhi Chawla: The giggly Juhi Chawla is probably one fun mom! She has a son, Arjun and a daughter, Jhanvi, both of whom she dotes on. The actress never completely gave up her career for a domestic lifestyle but has stated numerous times that her children come first!
Malaika Arora Khan: She has been officially crowned as India's yummiest mummy and there is no doubt about it. The svelte and sexy actress is mom to a very cute Arhaan and has declared that she is what she is because she is a hands-on mom.
Sushmita Sen: Unconventional, intelligent and sexy. One can only hope Sushmita Sen bestows the same traits to her own girls, Renee and Alisa, when they grow up. This ex-Miss Universe had no bones in adopting her girls and plays mom to them ever so beautifully.
Raveena Tandon: The mast-mast actress' post marriage may have not really kick-started but she has managed to stay fit and fine. Her daughter Rasha too possesses similar traits including owning a beautiful smile and this mom couldn't be happier.
Pooja Bedi: She has called herself a more "gypsy-like" mom and allows her children to just be. Aalia and Omar are both known as very bright children and Bedi loves playing mom to both of them.
Sonali Bendre: Sonali Bendre is known for being a doting mom to her son, Ranvir . In fact she has been named the most "Perfect Mom" within the fraternity.
Twinkle Khanna: Akshay Kumar's wife ensures that if she is a good mom, Akshay must be a better father. However, while Twinkle is the stricter of the two, son Aarav is said to be super attached to his mom.
Rahat Hi Rahat: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan Concert Review
The singer,Rahat Fateh Ali Khan grew up around his uncle Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and with that heritage it basically puts immense pressure to perform and outdo himself every time. He was all of eleven when the singer toured with his uncle in the U.K. and from then on, there was no turning back. Rahat became a singer in the Qawwali, Ghazal and Classical music. It was in 2004 that he became immensely popular in Bollywood when he sang for Pooja Bhatt's film Paap. His song, 'Mann Ki Lagan' became an instant hit bringing Rahat to fame. From then on there was no looking back for this singer. Additional international accomplishments include working with Pearl Jam and Rahat was also heard in a number of Hollywood feature films including Mel Gibson's Apocalypto and Dead Man Walking.
Over the last few years, Rahat's unique and incredibly intense vocals have become popular amongst his fans locally and abroad. I, for one am a huge fan. The Bay Area in the U.S. was honored with a night of singer's outstanding music during a recent tour and you can bet your last dollar I was there. The extremely humble singer began his concert seeking blessings from his late uncle and sang his late Uncle's "Allahu" which bought the audiences to their feet as he filled the Oracle Arena with his intense singing. We were then blessed to hear him croon to yet another one of his hits, 'O Re Piya' from Aaja Nachle. As he switched between a song of his Uncles and one of his own, the crowd gained more and more momentum. His literally heavenly voice jutted out a number of the audiences’ favorites, 'Naina' from Omkara, 'Jiya Dhadak Dhadak' from Kalyug, 'Mann Ki Lagan' from Paap, 'Bol Na Halke Halke' from Jhoom Barabar Jhoom,'Jag Soona Soona Lage' from Om Shanti Om, 'Main Jahaan Rahoon' from Namaste London, 'Teri Ore' from Singh is Kinng, 'Ajj Din Chadheya' from Love Aaj Kal,'Surili Akhiyon Wale' from Veer, 'Sajda' from My Name is Khan and finally, 'Dil To Bachcha Hai Ji' from Ishqiya. The more he sang, the louder his fans seemed to get to the extent that they shooed away the promoters of the show with a thunderous noise demanding to hear more from the next maestro.
However, the highlight of the show came when the singer indulged in a jugalbandi with himself as he collaborated a medley of his Uncles most popular tracks, 'Tumhein Dillagi Bhool Jaani Paregi', 'Akhiyan Udeek Diyan' and 'Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai.' Wow was the word as his singing simply took over your soul and stopped your breath. If you ever missed the senior maestro Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, he was definitely the hall, spirit and soul, looking at the audiences dancing and throwing money at his nephew. He was honored in the most grand of ways possible.
Breathtaking was the exact adjective to describe the four-hour concert and you were simply left asking for more. The singer was in great spirits and delivered just what he had promised, a concert of a lifetime. His incredibly soft and humble nature was expressed through his dignified and unique deliverance with his music. As an artist, Rahat is clearly one who understands the sentiments of his audiences who ranged ages; no one left dissatisfied.
Just like his name, which means "relief", Rahat left you feeling a sense of respite when listening to him singing. It was a break from the usual useless meaningless music that is normally heard. Instead, you were treated to some intense music filled with thought provoking lyrics which made you laugh, cry, feel pain, reminisce and even dance. Definitely a concert of a lifetime and one not worth missing. If Rahat Fateh Ali Khan ever visits your city in the U.S. yet, I recommend you catch him in concert; it's worth every penny.
Over the last few years, Rahat's unique and incredibly intense vocals have become popular amongst his fans locally and abroad. I, for one am a huge fan. The Bay Area in the U.S. was honored with a night of singer's outstanding music during a recent tour and you can bet your last dollar I was there. The extremely humble singer began his concert seeking blessings from his late uncle and sang his late Uncle's "Allahu" which bought the audiences to their feet as he filled the Oracle Arena with his intense singing. We were then blessed to hear him croon to yet another one of his hits, 'O Re Piya' from Aaja Nachle. As he switched between a song of his Uncles and one of his own, the crowd gained more and more momentum. His literally heavenly voice jutted out a number of the audiences’ favorites, 'Naina' from Omkara, 'Jiya Dhadak Dhadak' from Kalyug, 'Mann Ki Lagan' from Paap, 'Bol Na Halke Halke' from Jhoom Barabar Jhoom,'Jag Soona Soona Lage' from Om Shanti Om, 'Main Jahaan Rahoon' from Namaste London, 'Teri Ore' from Singh is Kinng, 'Ajj Din Chadheya' from Love Aaj Kal,'Surili Akhiyon Wale' from Veer, 'Sajda' from My Name is Khan and finally, 'Dil To Bachcha Hai Ji' from Ishqiya. The more he sang, the louder his fans seemed to get to the extent that they shooed away the promoters of the show with a thunderous noise demanding to hear more from the next maestro.
However, the highlight of the show came when the singer indulged in a jugalbandi with himself as he collaborated a medley of his Uncles most popular tracks, 'Tumhein Dillagi Bhool Jaani Paregi', 'Akhiyan Udeek Diyan' and 'Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai.' Wow was the word as his singing simply took over your soul and stopped your breath. If you ever missed the senior maestro Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, he was definitely the hall, spirit and soul, looking at the audiences dancing and throwing money at his nephew. He was honored in the most grand of ways possible. Breathtaking was the exact adjective to describe the four-hour concert and you were simply left asking for more. The singer was in great spirits and delivered just what he had promised, a concert of a lifetime. His incredibly soft and humble nature was expressed through his dignified and unique deliverance with his music. As an artist, Rahat is clearly one who understands the sentiments of his audiences who ranged ages; no one left dissatisfied.
Just like his name, which means "relief", Rahat left you feeling a sense of respite when listening to him singing. It was a break from the usual useless meaningless music that is normally heard. Instead, you were treated to some intense music filled with thought provoking lyrics which made you laugh, cry, feel pain, reminisce and even dance. Definitely a concert of a lifetime and one not worth missing. If Rahat Fateh Ali Khan ever visits your city in the U.S. yet, I recommend you catch him in concert; it's worth every penny.
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