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Interview : The cool side of me finally surfaces in 'Dhoom 2': Hrithik

After scaling new heights with 'Krrish', Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan recently walked the ramp for the first time for sister-in-law Farah Khan.

'I was very self-conscious. But once I took my first step, I was okay. With everyone cheering me, it was quite a high. Unfortunately, I couldn't do enough rehearsals for the event because I was shooting for 'Dhoom 2',' said Hrithik.

''Dhoom 2' is a welcome departure from my goody-goody image. That cool side of me finally surfaces. It features me as a very different me,' Hrithik told us.

The actor says he is a big fan of Vishal Bharadwaj's cinema. 'I'd like to do an adaptation and not a straightforward screen version of Shakespeare.'

He is also planning a world tour for 2007 or 2008.

Excerpts from the Interview:

You walked the ramp for Farah Khan's jewellery last week.

That was my first ramp walk for my sister-in-law Farah. It was great fun. I had never walked the ramp before. But anything for Farah. She's one of the most selfless and generous people I know.

She's like the Mother Teresa of our family. She's headstrong. She'll fight for what she thinks is right. And she'll fight even harder for what she thinks is right for others. She carries around this happy positive vibe. Just the fact that she got half the heroes of Bollywood to walk the ramp in jewellery shows how much she is loved by everyone.

Were you self-conscious walking the ramp?

Very. But once I took my first steps I was okay. With everyone cheering me, it was quite a high. Unfortunately, I couldn't do enough rehearsals for the event - I was shooting for 'Dhoom 2' -- although they did have rehearsals.

So, when I actually went on the ramp I was pretty much in the dark until I saw the crowd. Only then did I realise what I had got myself into.

Why not a world tour to cash in on 'Krrish'?

Yeah, we're planning one. Some of my friends from the industry are planning a tour for 2007 or 2008. But not right away.

The teaser trailer of 'Dhoom 2' has the nation in a grip.

It's definitely going to take me to another world away from 'Krrish'. I've never been hired to do something like this before. I was waiting for this chance.

I'm very calm, composed and cool in 'Dhoom 2'. So far I've played the devoted brother, obedient son, obliging friend and faithful lover. 'Dhoom 2' is a welcome departure from my goody-goody image. That cool side of me finally surfaces. 'Dhoom 2' features me as a very different me.

Onirban wants to cast you as Hamlet?

Hamlet! That's interesting. I'd love to hear what he has in mind. I'd like to do an adaptation and not a straightforward screen version of Shakespeare. 'Hamlet' has been done so many times in America - but something like what Vishal Bharadwaj has done in 'Omkara' is welcome. I'm a very big fan of Vishal's cinema. I really want to work with him.

Why are filmmakers afraid to approach you. Why do they think you and your dad are a hard team to break?

That's ridiculous, yaar! Here is an actor whose second film after 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' was directed by a film critic Khalid Mohamed in which I played the protagonist's brother.

Then I've gone on to do films with new directors like Arjun Sablok and Kunal Kohli. And now I'm doing a film with Zoya Akhtar, who is also a new director.

Zoya pairs you with Kareena Kapoor again.

Yes, we haven't been seen together for a while. But we keep bumping into each other socially.

Do you think Kareena has evolved as an actor?

She was already evolved when we started working together in Karan's 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'. I haven't seen her recent films. But I've heard good things about her in 'Omkara'.

Will there be awkwardness between the two of you?

Why? Because of the rumours about us? I'd be awkward if there was any truth to the rumours. If there was even the smallest discomfort, why would we agree to work together again and that too with a new director? The last thing Zoya needs is a stressed lead pair.

Zoya will be your first female director?

Yes. It'd be interesting. It's a completely different sensibility.

Interview : Rehaan Khan stepping into Bollywood

With 'Jaana – Let's Fall in Love' Rehaan Khan, son of filmmaker Sharukh Mirza is stepping into Bollywood. The film is his launch pad and he looks forward to carry the legacy of the Mirza clan in the film industry. He has already signed two more films. Here's a chat with him on his debut movie 'Jaana – Let's Fall in Love'.

Excerpts from the Interview:

Tell us about your debut film Jaana – Let's Fall in Love.

As the name says is all, it is a musical love story. In the past my father has delivered musical hits and this film is no different. The film basically tells that it's not wrong to do anything that is right.

What is your role in the film?

The film is set in the milieu of Nainital and my character is called Raju. He doesn't like living there and aspires to do something in life. He meets a girl and he feels that he can make his dreams come true. But God has something else in store for him.

How was it to work with veteran stars like Rajesh Khanna and Zeenat Aman in the film?

After a long time they'll be on screen again and this makes the film special. Rajesh Khanna is a special person to our family as my parents got married at his house. My father was a writer then and he wrote Dhanwan for Rajesh Khanna. It feels great that today I'm working with him. He has seen be as a kid and was amazed to see me now. He will be singing and dancing in the film and also looks different. Zeenat Aman at this age is also very gorgeous and beautiful. She plays my mother here.

How was it working with co-star Anjana?

She is a very sweet and homely girl. She is very co-operative, hard working and humble. She used to do lots of rehearsals before a shot and is very dedicated towards her work. It was a good experience shooting for the film. We started shooting in November and completed in January. The film is expected to release soon.

Are you professionally trained in acting?

I've taken acting classes for three months in Kishore Namit Kapoor's acting academy. I've also trained myself in dancing and have learnt Salsa and rock-n-roll. I'm also well groomed in action, skate boarding and horse riding. To be a star today you've to be good in everything. Its not that just because I'm a producer's son things are very easy for me.

Will this film carry on the legacy of Mirza brothers for delivering a musical hit?

No stones have been left unturned in terms of the music of the film. There are five music directors with Anand-Milind and new comers Guru, Rajendra and Shiv. The soundtrack is a musical variety and it will cater to all kinds of audience. There is 'Ola Ola' which is a dance number, 'Kalma Kalma' is a qawwali, and the title track is a romantic song. We have remixed his four or five old songs.

How is your brother Farhaan as a director?

This film is an acid test for both of us, as it is my first film as an actor and his as a director. He has supposed to be an actor and my father was willing to launch him but he was not inclined towards acting. He is also coming with a solo film.

Have you signed any other films?

Yes I've signed two other films. But I can't reveal much about the projects now. What I'm looking forward to do here is quality work. I want to play young college-goer role that will suit my age not the serious role of a police inspector at this age.

What is the USP of the film according to you?

It is not one of those films that we see regularly in Bollywood. It's a romantic film meant for every boy and girl in love. The highlight of the film is the comeback of Mr. Rajesh Khanna and Zeenat Aman. Elderly people can also look forward to this film. Also there is a very big social message that needs to reach everyone.

Interview : Fairy Tale - Milind Soman

National swimmer, India's first male supermodel and actor producer Milind Soman's latest film Katputtli opens this week. But he is more in the news for his sudden and quiet wedding with his Valley of Flowers co-star, French actor Mylene Jampanoi ...

Excerpts from the Interview:

You had quite an unusual announcement of marriage at Delhi's audience-packed Siri Fort auditorium during the screening of your film Valley of Flowers starring you and your co-star French actor Mylene Jampanoi who is now your wife.

Mylene and I were married on July 12 and the screening was on July 15, just three days later. Since it was during the making of this film that we first met, worked, fell in love and got married and as it was also our first public appearance together, we decided to make an official announ- cement of the nuptials to the Delhi audience.

Besides similar sounding names, what else do you have in common?

Our dreams for each other, I guess. More things we have yet to discover. (laughs)

What is your role in the soon-to-be released Katputtli?

Katputtli is an interesting film that explores human weaknesses. Nobody is totally good or bad it is only certain situation that makes a person weak. I play a doctor in the film. I enjoyed working with Mink and Punnu, her brother who, for a debut production, have made a real good film.

You have a fairly good experience working with first-time makers, don't you?

Yes. And I have never had any problems working with newcomers. 16 December was IDream Productions' first film, Arjun Sajnani began his career with Agni Varsha while Parvati Balago-palan made her directorial debut with Rules - Pyaar Ka Super Hit Formula. My forthcoming film Bheja Fry is Sagar Bellary's entry into films.

How inspirational was your first international project Valley of Flowers for you?

It was an eye-opener for me. Since the entire crew was from overseas, their working style was poles apart from ours. They are such professionals.Each one is specialised in his work. Every-thing is planned meticulously before the actual execution. Not everyone can understand philosophy but Valley of Flowers was certainly adventurous and an appealing venture. It was also my first visit to Ladakh. We were shooting at a height of 17000-18000 feet above sea level and most of the time we were on horseback. It was quite a different feeling all the time. And I was destined to meet my wife there.

Since your debut film Tarkieb, you have had very few films to your credit?

If you notice, my films Tarkieb, Jurm, Roshni, Agni Varsha, 16 December, Rules-Pyaar ... are not typical mainstream films. I have tried to do very different projects every time. And now since I have ventured into production myself, I find it a very rewarding experience. Rules-Pyaar ... was my first production. On television, I received very good response for Just Pooja, anchored by Pooja Bedi. Nina Manuel is hosting After Show which is also doing well.

A swimmer, the first Indian male supermodel, actor, singer (you sang a track in Mani Shankar's film 16 December) and now producer, what role do you enjoy the most? And do you have any plans to take up direction?

I feel complete as a producer as there is so much creativity and interaction involved. Making films is a bigger canvas for creativity that reaches a wide section of audience. I have never thought of taking up direction as yet. Maybe sometime later but I feel, it is the most tough and responsible job. The role of a director is superlative. A producer just gives the director a platform, the rest is for him to deliver.

What else is happening in your life?

Besides, Bheja Fry, I have plans to produce two international projects soon. One will be a Hindi-English bilingual with only Indian actors while the other is an English-French film. There is also Nari Hira-produced Brahm, Magna Publishing's maiden film followed by a very interesting Tamil film titled Silandi which means spider coming up for release soon. It is directed by Gautam Menon and co-stars Jyotika.

So who is playing the title role of the spider?

(Chuckles) It would be either Jyotika or me. See the film and you will know.

Interview : Sandhya's big plans!

Sandhya Mridul is one of the great talents we've at the front. She has done terrific roles generally as a supporting actress in most of the films she has featured. But the career of this spunky star is going for a change as she gears to play the lead in a film. Also for the first time she is shedding her serious image and getting into glamorous show with the sexy item number in her role as bar dancer. 2006 surely looks up and roaring for her!

Excerpts from the Interview:

You're very popular in social circles. What makes you their favourite?

Actually I love to dance and imitate and this is great entertainment for many. My friends during their wedding invite me to have a rocking show. I also like to imitate many filmi people, except myself. (Laughs)

Whom have you been imitating lately?

It's Aishwarya Rai and I've been doing the Kajra Re act. She is also my favourite actress and I loved her Mistress of Spices. I liked Kareena Kapoor before her. I like all stars who have a distinct style.

And what is your style?

Ever since my childhood I was very particular that I wanted my individual identity and didn't wanted to be anybody else. My hair was cut like Vinod Khanna and when there was a ruffle with the boys I used to fight like him. I was really eccentric. In my career perspective too I make sure not to get typecast. I don't prefer looking the same all the time. That's the reason I'm ready to do the roles from a dancer to a nun, playing a 20-year-old or a 50-year-old, a mother, sister, daughter or brother – nothing matter as far its different.

Is that the reason why your films are so varied?

Yes I'm doing films but at the same time I'm also checking where exactly I fit in. Right now I'm pinning to do a mad David Dhawan comedy with Arshad Warsi. I'm always looking forward to add variety to my work. But it's also confusing and so I hope that people recognize me that it's the same girl doing different roles.

Tell us about your role in Deadline.

After playing many supporting roles, I'm happy that Deadline came my way, which is very different. So far I've been shown as a girl next door, but here I get to play a sensual character with a strong negative element.

You're also doing a glamorous role of a bar dancer?

In the film playing Chauki, I'm a bar dancer and I'm doing a hot dance number. Since I love dancing, the director wanted it in my style although the song was choreographed.

Other than this what are the other films that you're doing?

There is Honeymoon Tours. I play a girl there who doesn't know how to wear the right clothes, but knows how to wear her attitude. Then there is an English film with Arshad Warsi and Suneil Shetty 'Mr White and Mr Black'. It's a comedy but I've a negative role.

Any plans for the future?

I've decided not to make plans. God has a wicked sense of humour and the irony is that I get my sense of humour from God. I do have plan to learn jazz dancing in New York.

Reshammiya's 'Dil Diya Hai' worth a miss
By IANS
Aug 07, 2006, 08:51

It seems Himesh Reshammiya (give us a break) has run out of tricks. Another film score and the same mundane effort. Though he tries his best to be different - at times even trying to sound like a Sufi singer - he fails miserably.

One fails to understand why he refuses to change his style - he has been sounding the same in almost all his recent songs.

'Dil diya' by Reshammiya and Himani is the opening track of the album. Reshammiya is in his usual self - changing pitches all of a sudden while maintaining his nasal tone. Even Himani's husky voice fails to do any good to this number.

'Mile ho tum to' is another forgettable duet sung by Reshammiya and Tulsi Kumar. Though the lyrics are of a happy number, it turns out to be one of agony and depression.

Reshammiya then croons a solo 'Yaadan teriyan', fusing keyboards with tabla but the result is the same.

The non-Reshammiya numbers - 'Chalo dildar chalo' by Hemchandra, Vinit and Himani, and 'Jabse aankh ladi' by Alisha Chinai and Jayesh - fails to break the monotony.

There is another Reshammiya-Tulsi number 'Afsana banake bhool na jaana' but nothing worthy can be said of this number either.

All the six songs have been remixed by DJ Akbar Sami.

The film, directed by Aaditya Datt, stars Emraan Hashmi (give us a break, you too), Ashmit Patel, Mithun Chakravorty and newcomer Geeta Basra.

Reshammiya seemed to be pretty okay in his compositions for 'Tere Naam', 'Jodi No. 1' or 'Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye'.

But post 'Aashiq Banaya Aapne' (he won the Filmfare and IIFA awards for best playback singer), his compositions have almost become unbearable. Also he began to sing regularly.

'Dil Diya Hai' is really a poor effort by Reshammiya. He can only but pray that at least the remix versions get some listening space in party circuits. Though essentially not dance numbers, party animals, who love to gyrate to anything on offer, may provide him some solace.

Or else, he can look up to passionate-kisser Hashmi to spring some magic on screen.

For listeners, 'Dil Diya Hai' is really worth giving a miss, except for those who have vouched to be loyal to Reshammiya, come whatever may.

Fest for Carnatic music lovers in capital
By IANS
Aug 08, 2006, 08:03

Music lovers in the capital will be treated to a daylong festival of Carnatic music on August 5. The festival promises to be an amalgamation of vocal and instrumental music, all in the ancient south Indian Carnatic style.

Organised by Banyan Tree Events, Dakshinayan will present an impressive line-up of music maestros - vocalist Bombay Jayashri, Mandolin artistes U. Srinivas and U. Rajesh and Ghatam aficionado Vikku Vinayakaram.

Dakshinayan, in its second year, is the brainchild of Mahesh Babu, Director Banyan Tree Events. The festival aims to celebrate, promote and popularise Carnatic music in India and abroad.

The organisation has been showcasing the talent of musical geniuses across India for over a decade now. Legends who have been part of such festivals in the past include M. Balamurali Krishna (vocal), K.J. Yesudas (vocal) and Umayalapuram K. Sivaraman (Mridangam).

Jayashri, who groomed under the guidance of maestro Lalgudi G. Jayaraman and T.R. Balamani, is the recipient of the Sangeetha Choodamani and Nadabhooshanam awards. Having dabbled in playback singing for regional and Bollywood films, she also has a Filmfare award to her credit.

Vikku Vinayakaram started off as an accompanist to music legends like Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, M.S. Subbulakshmi and Maharajapuram Santhanam. He has performed extensively in India and abroad and has experimented with fusion music. He is also the author of several books on percussion.

U. Srinivas and his brother U. Rajesh are renowned Carnatic musicians, known not just for their musical prowess but also for their choice of instrument - a mandolin. Awarded the Padma Shri in 1998, Srinivas has carved a niche for himself in the international music scenario as well, having performed with several acclaimed jazz artists.

Dakshinayan has organised events for a wide range of audiences comprising corporate heads of leading multinational and Indian companies, NRIs, foreign tourists and connoisseurs of the arts.

As versatile as Shubha Mudgal
By MIO Team
Aug 08, 2006, 08:03

Shubha Mudgal is more popularly hailed for Hindustani classical music. But as a singer she is always open to experiment and her versatility can be traced from the varied genre of songs she sings. Shubha is now fascinated by Sufi music and is escalading herself to do more towards that form of music. Her recent presentation of the Sufi music was the song 'Ghoom tana' along with Salman Ahmed of Pakistani band Junoon which was a blend of Sufi and Hindustani classical. Other than this her solo album 'The Awakening' also has several Sufi songs. She has rendered a high pitch Sufi track 'Main sutti raiyan', 'Ali o Ali' and 'Kar sajda' in the album. After 'Ghoom tana' she came up with the idea to render the album of Sufi genre.

"Since I am a Hindustani classical singer, it does not mean I don't appreciate other genres. There is always a link among all the forms of music. Sufi is not only music. It is like a faith, a belief and deals with man-God relationship. All Sufi songs sound like love songs. I have always been an ardent admirer of this form," says Subha Mudgal.

Her next album is 'Tore sang' for Bickram Ghosh based on classical-folk mix.

Rendezvous with Ustad Rashid Ali khan
By MIO Team
Aug 09, 2006, 09:38

Padmashree Ustad Rashid Ali khan is synonymous with music for his love and contribution towards it. He hails from the Rampur Sahaswan Khayal Gharana of Gwalior, and is a prominent figure in Hindustani classical music. He learnt his learnt vocal music from Ustad Nisar Hussain Khan saheb. His singing abounds in warmth, charisma and takes the listener into an entirely different world with his honeyed voice. And this is evident in his concerts. He feels that music is his passion. He idolizes Ustad Ghulam Ali Khan and Bhimsen Joshi.

"Sangeet sadhna is a great medium to reach out to the Lord. Each time I render a performance, it's a soul stirring experience. I don't think I can ever live without music," says the maestro. Noted directors have approached him from Bollywood and he has done playbacking for the track 'Kaahe Ujade Mori Neend' in Kisna. And when he is not busy with sangeet sadhna, he promotes upcoming singers through his Shakri Begum Charitable Trust in Kolkata. "There's lot of promising talent in India. But unfortunately, it is not tapped. And if the government promotes it properly, there will be lot many who would be interested in pursuing classical music and other folk arts," says Rashid Khan.

A.R. Rehman launches his music company
By MIO Team
Aug 09, 2006, 09:38

Legendary A.R. Rehman takes another giant step in the realm of his musical career. The music maestro, who has been associated with singing and composing so far, has plans to get into the music production business as well. He has named the label as KM music and though it doesn't sound anything familiar to us, it supposedly stands for something holy and lucky for him. The sole concern of the company will be to find new talents including composers but mainly new voices who could go unnoticed otherwise. A.R. Rehman would however stick to only producing the music and not distributing it.

In a spirit of brotherhood for Sanu
By MIO Team
Aug 10, 2006, 07:23

Bollywood singers stand united for the sake of Kumar Sanu. Sonu Nigam, Alka Yagnik, Hema Sardesai and Asha Bhosle have all come forward for Kumar Sanu's first production 'Utthaan' starring Priyanshu Chatterjee and Neha Dhupia and have sung the songs of the film free of cost. It is a great deed indeed by these singers who have considered their relationship with him more important than money. It is an unusual gesture of camaraderie.

"I am overwhelmed by the love they showered on me. I only had to make a call and all of them offered to sing for my film, as always when I required them. They even refused to quote any remuneration for their endeavour. I am touched by their gesture. I had never imagined that my colleagues would be so kind and co-operative. Their action itself speaks volumes. They have become family for me now," says Sanu.

Sonu Nigam says that the music composed by Kumar Sanu is fantastic. "I respect Sanuda a lot. And money or no money, I will always stand by him," he puts down.

'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' entrenched at top
By IANS
Aug 10, 2006, 07:23

NEW DELHI: The fop five songs of last week are holding their respective positions. Apart from that, two new songs - "Aap ki khatir" and "Ishq kiya" - have entered the list.

The top 10 Hindi film songs of the week are:

1. "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" - Film: "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna"; singers: Alka Yagnik and Sonu Nigam; music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. Though director Karan Johar insists "Mitwa" is the best song in the album, this sad and touching number is more popular among music lovers.

2 "Bidee" - Film: "Omkara"; singers: Sunidhi Chauhan, Sukhwinder Singh; music: Vishal Bharadwaj. This rustic item number has hit the right chord with music lovers in the cow-belt area and is dominating all countdown shows on TV channels.

3. "Chand Sifarish" - Film: "Fanaa"; singers: Shaan and Kailash Kher; music: Jatin-Lalit. A naughty and romantic number, the song remained on top of the charts for months, but is slipping now.

4. "Ya Ali" - Film: "Gangster - A Love Story"; singer: Zubeen; music: Pritam. A hit Sufi song among listeners, it has entrenched itself properly on the music charts and is moving up.

5. "Golmaal" - Film: "Golmaal - Fun Unlimited"; singers: Anushka Manchandani, Vishal Dadlani; music: Vishal-Shekhar. This youthful song with a funky tune has taken a big leap and landed on number five from number nine.

6. "Ek kahani" - Film: "Krrish"; singer: Kunal Ganajawala; music: Rajesh Roshan. The album was not an instant hit but the success of the film has increased its sale and the song is constantly moving up on the chart.

7. "Junoon" - Film: "Rocky - The Rebel"; singers: Amrita Kak, Himesh Reshammiya; music: Himesh Reshammiya. The energetic and high-voltage song has entered the chart on the seventh position last week and is still there.

8. "Aashiqui Meri" - Film: "36 China Town"; singers: Himesh Reshammiya, Sunidhi Chauhan; music: Himesh Reshammiya. New releases have overshadowed this fast-paced number, which is losing its popularity.

9. "Aap ki khatir" - Film: "Aap Ki Khatir"; singer: Himesh Reshammiya; Music: Himesh Reshammiya. There are three versions of this song in the album and all of them are doing well.

10. "Ishq kiya"- Film: "Anthony Kaun Hai"; singers: Sunidhi Chauhan, Himesh Reshammiya; music: Himesh Reshammiya. Inspired by Arabian music, it is a spicy number.

Raageshwari to sing for the deaf
By MIO Team
Aug 11, 2006, 07:49

Do you think deaf can hear music? Well, singer Raageshwari Loomba is going to make what looks impossible possible. She wants to make the hearing-impaired feel and hear music. Taking a step further to make their lives brighter, she is going to feature a song for the deaf in her next album. She said that the lyrics of her new album would have sign language. She added that her next concert after the release of the album would incorporate sign language.

Raageshwari has come a long way ever since her debut in Govinda's 'Love 86'. She has matured as a professional and as a person. She was recently named the brand ambassador for Indiadeaf Expo 2006, an international event for the hearing impaired. She is excited to be a part of this noble cause and thanked everyone for having faith in her in spite of the presence of many big stars. She said that celebrities are always around to work for social cause.

She seems to have a heart of gold, as she is keen to make the deaf hear through her. She feels entertainment industry should come forward and add spice to the lives of these disabled people like Sanjay Leela Bhansali did in 'Black'. She said that music industry could make use of the talent of these people by providing them proper guidance. She added that simple steps like adding sub-titles to news shows, serials and movies, making TVP phones, fixed phones with the facility to type messages or teaching sign language can do wonders to the hearing-impaired in the country.

So what has happen to her career in Bollywood? Has she bid goodbye to films? Well, she is waiting for the right role to come her way. She said that she would step into another film only if someone comes with an offer like what Julie Andrews played in 'The Sound of Music'. She is not in the mood to act on small screens because of the time it consumes and has also decided to give teenagers a chance as far as Vjing is concerned.

Well, other celebrities can learn a lesson or two from Raageshwari and lend their ears to the voice of the less equals in the society. A little bit of love and a little bit of kindness can make a big difference to their lives.

Kailash Kher excited about singing with Eddie Vedder
By IANS
Aug 14, 2006, 10:09

New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) From singing on railway platforms to appearing on the cover page of international music magazine Rave, singer Kailash Kher has definitely come a long way and right now he is elated about his upcoming world concert with Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder.

'I am very excited about a collaboration with Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder. The live concert will be a tribute to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saheb who had teamed up with Vedder for the soundtrack of 'Dead Man Walking',' said Kailash who recently released his album 'Kailasa'.

The singer is quite upbeat about the album. 'We are very happy with the response received by 'Kailasa' and are planning a sequel,' Kailash told us in an interview.

Kailash is a fan of Himesh Reshammiya's abilities as a music director, but finds his singing 'monotonous'.

'Reshammiya's abilities as a music director are excellent but his capabilities as a singer are not equally promising. His singing is monotonous. Most of his songs sound the same.

'I'm still what I used to be. I only want to sing freely, nothing else matters,' said the singer who has sung for films like 'Fanaa', 'Corporate' and 'Waisa Bhi Hota Hai-II'.

He talks candidly about his recent professional success but does not want to share his childhood memories with anybody.

'There is nothing interesting to share about my early days. I can only tell you that I was born in Meerut and shifted to Delhi at the age of five.'

Talking about his first break, he said: 'Although my first break was a jingle for Nakshatra diamonds, it did not give me much recognition. My first big break was a jingle for a Hero Cycles commercial, shot specially for the cricket World Cup.

'The jingle 'Ab udana hai aasan' was telecast almost every over during commercial breaks of the matches. It gave me a lot of recognition,' he said.

'I have sung for several upcoming Hindi movies, including Ravi Chopra's 'Baabul', Nikhil Advani's 'Salaam-e-Ishq', Sachin Bajaj's 'Naksha' and Dibakar Banerjee's 'Khosla ka Ghosla',' said Kher.

Queried on his first meeting with music maestro A.R. Rahman, he said: 'I got an unexpected call from Rahman's studios, asking me to take the next flight to Chennai. He wanted to meet me for some project and the rest is history.'

With Rahman, Kher has worked in M.F. Hussain's 'Meenaxi', Ketan Mehta's 'Mangal Pandey - A Rising' and Ashutosh Gowarikar's 'Swades'.

Bismillah Khan on liquid diet, suffering from weakness
By PTI
Aug 16, 2006, 06:45

Varanasi, Aug 16: Shehnai legend Ustad Bismillah Khan is suffering from age-related weakness and has been put on intra-venous drip on medical advice at his home in Harha Sarai locality here for the last two days but "his condition is otherwise stable." "Bismillah Khan is suffering from weakness because of his age and is not eating solid food for the past couple of days," the 91-year-old Bharat Ratna awardee's son Kazim Hussain said.

"But there was no threat to his life and his condition was otherwise stable," he said pointing out that Khan was put on intra-venous drip by his personal physician Nadeem Jaffri two days back and is being attended to at his home.

Hussain also discounted reports that his father's condition was serious.

Born on March 21, 1916, Khan is a recipient of numerous awards and comes from a family of professional shehnai players of the erstwhile princely state of Dumrao in Bihar.

The maestro, who had financial problems, had been given monetary help by the previous NDA government as also the ruling UPA alliance at the Centre.

Ya Ali/ Ya Ghali? Ask Pritam
By MIO Team
Aug 17, 2006, 08:08

Pritam is once again in the news for the charges of plagiarism on him. This time it's the song that did the best to his career 'Ya Ali' from 'Gangster'. As the nation crooned the song like an anthem, nobody was aware that it was a direct lift from an originally Arabic number called 'Ya Ghali' composed by a Kuwait based band called GuiTaRa and is one of their most popular composition. Now the band alleges that the Bollywood composer has used their song without their knowledge and haven't even given due credit to them. Bandleader Fahad Shammoh claims that the song is completely stolen and was eventually upset after he watched it on TV. He says that the laurel of 'Ya Ali' goes to 'Ya Ghali' and so he has the due to get the profit. The rights of the Arabic song is owned by Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia royal family and he now plans to sue Pritam over the issue and the case is in progress.

On this issue Pritam says that he had no knowledge about the original song and that he has not stolen it or has got inspired by it. He says that 'Ya Ali' is inspired by a Muslim folk song that has been prevalent for centuries now. But Zubeen Garg, the singer of 'Ya Ali' puts in that he had knowledge about the original song but insists that the Bollywood number is not completely copied. He further adds that at time the composer has to comply with the producer's demands and he is left with no choice.

Pop diva Anaida back with 'Nayaa'
By MIO Team
Aug 17, 2006, 08:08

Eurasian artiste and pop diva Anaida returns to the charts with her fifth album 'Nayaa'. After singing with equal ease with singers like Baba Sehgal and Petre Andre and delivering hit numbers like Arabic O Malu Malu and a pop Oova Oova, she took off to play back for some Bollywood flicks and Hakuna Matata (Lion King). With 'Nayaa' she opens a new page of her life. She collaborates with Karthik Raja, DJ Tushqa, Pakistani band Noori, and lyricist Abbas Tyrewala for the album. The songs have the essence of dance, club, lounge, commercial and R&B and contemporary beat. "Nayaa is a journey of love. It's about new sounds with an emotional flavour. There are songs I have written and composed," she puts in.

On the other works that she is doing, Anaida says, "I also did numerous projects abroad including a song for Buddha Bar. Time and again I have done lounge music but mainly on the international scene. Currently there is a song for Cafe Delmar compilation that I maybe doing. One of the producers I worked with before is keen to re do one of my existing compositions in a lounge style. I'd be open to doing songs for films the way it is done abroad - take the situation and create a song for them. But now and then I have sung for films and when I like the songs I still do," she tells.

Composers cashing on their voices
By MIO Team
Aug 18, 2006, 09:20

In the recent times we've observed the on going trend when many music composers are taking their salability factor into account and are coming in front of the mike and the camera to claim their name to fame. And no one is complaining when the music sells! Composers believe that they shouldn't restrict their talent to one dimension only and should take plunge into different aspects of music if they've the talent to do so. We've seen Anu Mallik do it long go, singing and acting in music video. AR Rahman also followed the stint. Himesh Reshammiya has done it innumerable time. Aadesh Shrivastava also joins the bandwagon with the unreleased 'Husn, Love and Betrayal'.

Says Aadesh, "Music directors put in a lot of effort and toil but it's the singers who get the recognition. I don't grudge them their adulation at all, but I wonder why music directors should not get their day in the sun, as well? Besides, if a music composer can sing, the emotion that he can bring out, no singer can. If a person looks good, then there is no reason why he shouldn't face the camera."

Singer Poonam Bhatia agrees to it but adds, "A song's the composer's baby. No one understands it better. That said, however, I fear that the trend will put singers at a disadvantage. You see, it's the music director who takes a call on which song gets most airplay during the promo of the movie, and they often pick the ones they have sung."

Director Mani Shankar puts in, "I think it started when music companies saw the potential in Himesh Reshammiya. His manner of song rendition - sufiana with a nasal, super-emotional quality- was very different from the other stuff that was in the market. It kind of sold, and music companies decided to promote Himesh as the product. Now it's become a me-too phenomenon for the others."

SPB singing wonders even after four decades
By MIO Team
Aug 18, 2006, 09:20

Padma Shri S. P. Balasubrahmanyam has made a penchant for himself in the realm of music. He has been singing since the last four decades contributing immensely to the music industry with his delighting, mesmerizing and serene voice. And even after so much of achievement and accomplishment he continues his journey to the surreal world of singing. He is gifted with the ability of effortless singing, dubbing artiste, actor and composer and has carved a place in the hearts of people all over the globe. He has so far rendered over 36,000 songs in many languages and finds place in the Guinness Book of World Records as an artist with the maximum number of recorded songs. He has also been conferred with six national awards so far.

On his achievements he says, "Achievements and awards have been a part and parcel of my journey. Being part of the industry for three to four generations is due to luck, blessings and hard work. I have just been very sincere. I respect my profession but I also love life. Even today when I face the microphone, I feel it is my first song. Often, I have felt that I should have taken music lessons. But, there is more to music - the capacity to express, the way you feel the song, and putting your heart and soul into it. I have learnt my lessons right." He says that it was his destiny that made him become a singer. "There are very talented people who cannot become singers. And, there are very ordinary singers like me who have become singers. What I tell budding singers is, be original. I'm happy that singers now get opportunities easily. It's not only because of technology, but also because composers like A. R. Rahman want variety and introduce new voices."

But he has invariably cut down on his recordings now. "Instead of singing 500 songs, I now sing 100 a year. And, I don't miss out on not lending my voice to the kind of songs being composed now. Also in acting I am now choosy and accept only characters that suit me," he adds.

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Sonu Nigam's awareness about India
By MIO Team
Aug 19, 2006, 07:42

India is proud of a singer like Sonu Nigam and he in turn is proud of his country. "I remember when I was younger, the entire family used to gather in one place and we used to sing patriotic songs, and were so overwhelmed by it all that tears rolled down our cheeks. This country has borne much and survived it all – from the Moguls to the British. But that's not the end of it. We may have got our independence, but India is still not what it should be. We all, as citizens, must work towards making it a better place," says Sonu. May don't know that he is also an ace at history. He has a deep knowledge about his motherland and is affluent with all conquests and invasions. "It's a shame if people are not aware of the history of their country. It's completely their loss, and they should not take pride in it." This is a message from the great singer that we should bear in mind.

Anu Malik calls himself Aanuu Mallik.
By MIO Team
Aug 19, 2006, 07:42

Music composer Anu Malik joins the bandwagon of name change like most of the celebrities based in numerology and tarot cards. So the superstitions man has lengthened his name and changed his spelling from Anu Malik to Aanuu Mallik now after consulting numerologist Niraj Mancchanda. Neeraj offers his explaination saying, "His name now comes to number 33 which is Lakshmi's number. Earlier his name – Anu – came to number 12, which meant success after a long struggle. If you have noticed, he never got credit for the work he did, be it Border or even Murder. Though the music did well, credit eluded him. But no more! Aanuu is very talented and he can look forward to a great new phase November 2 onwards." Hope that the name change will give Aanuu all that he deserves!