Bollywood hunk roars into Durbs
GIGGLING fans followed hunky Indian actor Shiney Ahuja around Durban this week as he shot scenes for a forthcoming Bollywood movie.
Armed with autograph books and cellphone cameras, they thronged barricades set up to prevent the public from encroaching on filming locations at the Marine Parade, Wilson's Wharf and Blue Lagoon.
A friendly Ahuja was more than happy to take time out to chat to his fans.
The 38-year-old star, who is in South Africa for the first time to shoot Black Diamond, said he was thrilled to be in the country and was enjoying the city sights.
The movie is about a Durban-born character, played by Ahuja, who grows up in the world of superbikes. It also features novice actress Ileana D'Cruz.
Similar to Dhoom 2, part of which was also shot in Durban and featured motorbikes, the film is packed with action scenes.
During one of the scenes this week, a stuntman was rushed to hospital after crashing while negotiating a ramp without a helmet. Two days later, however, he was back in action.
Ahuja said he had to learn to ride a motorbike for his role, and even though it was tough, it was an enjoyable experience.
"I had to learn to ride a motorbike for six months before coming here, but it was fun, because I rode the fastest bike in the world."
Ahuja, who has acted in seven movies, said he relished the adulation of his fans.
"Fame is not something I handle, it's just something I love."
Black Diamond is the third big Bollywood movie to be shot in the city in the past 18 months.
According to award- winning Bollywood director and journalist Indrajit Lankesh, Durban was chosen for its climate and because "filming bike races on the city's roads was ideal".
He said he would definitely want to film here again.
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