Key witness in the 26/11 case goes 'missing'

The witness, Nurudin Shaikh, yesterday told the court that the accused -- Faheem and Sabauddin -- had met him in Nepal and in his presence they discussed about the maps of some locations in Mumbai, which were later targeted by militants during the November 26 attacks last year.

The court had called the witness today for cross-examination at 11 AM but he failed to turn up.

Special public prosecutor Ujjawal Nikam told the court that crime branch officials had gone to Goregaon residence of the witness to fetch him but his wife had said that Shaikh had left home early morning, saying that he has to go to the court.

"This is a serious matter," judge M L Tahaliyani observed and said he would decide later on what steps the court should take in the matter.

Nikam also said that the identity of the witness had been kept secret earlier and was disclosed to the defence lawyer only Thursday for cross-examination.

According to crime branch, the witness is a childhood friend of Faheem and is staying in the same locality where Fahim stayed in the city.

Faheem and Sabauddin, both Indian nationals, are facing trial along with Pakistani national Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab.

Shaikh Thursday had told the court that maps of some locations in Mumbai were made by the duo at the instance of wanted accused Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakh

After SRK episode, Salman Khan cancels his US trip

Organisers and promoters associated with the event cited Shahrukh Khan's episode at Newark Airport early this month, where he was questioned by immigration officials and taken for a second screening, as a major reason for Salman to cancel his New York trip scheduled in early September.

The event was scheduled for September 3 in New York.

The promoters were also in talks with local organisers in cities like Chicago, Houston and Dallas for his other events.

"However, after the Shahrukh Khan event, Salman informed us that he would not like to take the risk of coming to the US at this point," an informed source involved with the planning and organising the September 3 event told PTI.

Somdev a victory away from US Open main draw

India's Somdev Devvarman is one victory away from making the US Open main draw as he won his second round in the qualifiers against Dutchman Igor Sijsling 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-3 at Flushing Meadows here.Somdev, a two-time US collegiate winner from University of Virginia, next plays Poland's Jerzy Janowicz who beat Frenchman Alexandfre Sidorenko, 7-6 (5), 6-3 to get to the final round.

Somdev took the first set with little difficulty, but Sijsling waged a relentless battle to win the second-set tie-break. The set - the best of the match with no service break -was replete with long rallies and Somdev came up with some crisp volleying.

The tiebreaker was furiously fought with neither player willing to budge. One of the points was of 21 strokes and Somdev was under pressure. The Indian saved five set points before giving in.

Unmindful of the reverse, Somdev came back strongly to gain control of the decider very early and went through without any more hiccups.

Off track: Sales of i-pill zoom, a $1 kiss & more

"Earlier, medicine shops in Lucknow used to sell seven-eight tablets a day. This has now shot up to even 25 tablets on some days. In the past six months, the demand has gone up up nearly 40 percent," said Chemists and Drug Association (CDA)president Giriraj Rastogi.

The main reason, Rastogi told IANS, is the increased frequency of advertisements promoting such products.

"Sexually active couples and teenagers are gradually making the emergency pills a part of their life which is wrong. This is a very irresponsible way to avoid pregnancy and steps should be taken to spread awareness among the masses," a doctor said.

"Be it print or electronic media, the frequency has increased in the past few months. You switch on the television set and you can see such ads within 10 minutes."

According to the CDA, a majority of the buyers are women in the 16-35 age group

‘Rakta Charitra’ after ‘Singam’ for Suriya

Shall we say ‘They are back’? As we know Suriya and Hari are now coupled for the third time in ‘Singam’ after ‘Aaru’ and ‘Vel’. We heard that Hari plans to complete ‘Singam’ in a single schedule of 50 days and 10 extra days for the patch work. Sources say that the shoot started in Courtallam of late, and ‘Singam’ will be Suriya’s big summer release, next year. This action-packed family mass entertainer has the sultry Anushka paired opposite Suriya for the first time.

Produced by Suriya’s cousin Gnanavel Raja under the banner of Studio Greens, ‘Singam’ will have its music done Devi Sri Prasad. Suriya the handsome hunk of southern circuit is slowly making his way into Bollywood.

After ‘Singam’ Suriya will be working with Ram Gopal Varma for ‘Rakta Charitra’. The film is based on the life on criminal Parithala Ravi who has been worshipped by his town people till date. Suriya will be enacting the role of Maatal Seruvu Suri alias Suri, the close associate of Parithala Ravi who is now accused in Ravi’s murder case. The film will be made in Two Parts and Suriya will be introduced during penultimate section of the first part. While the first part shows the rise of Parithala Ravi from forest to ballot, the second part deals with how he was trapped in the conspiracies of opponents. The second part will have a lot of space for Suriya’s character. We hear that Suriya has given 20 days of his call sheet for ‘Rakta Charitra’ which will be made simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu.

That’s a dream start for any star!

Mahesh Babu to move to Rajasthan

Prince Mahesh Babu is currently busy with the shooting of his next flick. The movie is being directed by Trivikram Srinivas.

According to sources, the crew is expected to travel to Rajasthan for the next schedule. This is supposed to be a 45 day non-stop schedule from September. The most sought after heroine Anushka is playing the lady lead in this one.

Singanamala Ramesh is producing this flick which has all the ingredients to be a super hit. It has been a while since prince has been seen on the silver screen so his fans have been waiting eagerly for this project to wrap up and arrive.

Slated to be a commercial entertainer with all ingredients, the film has been shaping up well.

Aascar Ravichandran’s plan for Hollywood!

These days not many producers present audiences film with good themes. Maybe, it’s merely for profits, they produce some pointless flicks. Producer Aascar Ravichandran has always made it a point that he delivers something refreshing and also takes home good revenue. After the success of ‘Dasavatharam’ he is too busy shuttling between Hong Kong, Shanghai and Los Angeles. As this matter troubled our brains we decided to get the reason behind the frequent journey.

As a relief our sources had the answer. It appears that Aascar Ravichandran travels often to visit his friend Jackie Chan, who is busy with his next Hollywood project. People, it is not a friendly trip there is a big business motif behind this visit. And no, the producer is not after the Indian rights of this film, but he is the one who produces the film. Yeah, you heard it right! Aascar Ravichandran is producing the Hollywood film that has Jackie Chan in the lead.

But then this plan is still in its early stage. The producer is planning to make the film with minimum budget of 500 crores. He is all busy in planning for financial assistance from all over the world and that is the main reason behind his frequent flights.

Aascar Ravichandran had distributed Jackie Chan's movies in India for a number of years now. Let’s wish he should soon produce this movie and reach the Oscar award as per his vision.

Nag’s movie with Kamakshi banner gearing up

The new movie which has ‘King’ Nagarjuna in the lead is currently in the making and this is made under the Kamakshi Kala Movies banner. The film is produced by D Shivaprasad Reddy and shooting is progressing briskly.

This marks the debut of Kiran as the director and the producer said that a month’s schedule has been planned in Goa. They are looking at proceeding with the shoot continuously upto November 20th and wrap the canning.

The release would be happening in December and this is a proper commercial entertainer.

Music- Sandeep Chowta, photography – Sarvesh Murari, story, screenplay, dialogues – Kiran. Get ready for this one folks!!!

Salman’s Towel becomes famous

Farah Khan’s talk show that recently started had Salman Khan and his mother Salma Khan as her first guests. The episode kick started an exciting auction. The product on sale was Salman’s towel! The yellow coloured towel was used by the actor himself in a song ‘Jeene Ke Hain Chaar Din’ from the movie ‘Mujhse Shaadi Karogi’. The song was choreographed by the host of the show, Farah. The sale went on Live on the popular portal eBay India and the bid amount of the towel has touched Rs. 1.42 lacs!

Sallu miya had performed few popular steps from the song with the towel and had said, “I got this since it has memories with Farah.”

Similarly, Priyanka Chopra and Olympic gold medallist Vijendra Singh who were the next guests on the show, have also put up their personal belongings on sale. An evening dress by Priyanka and boxing gloves by Vijendra are on the auction. While others stars like Bipasha Basu and Shilpa Shetty who are going to appear on the show have their own stuffs to put on the bid. The collections will be donated to the NGO, Sneha.

Shilpa going to be Dulhan soon!?!

The news has caught the headlines like a raging fire. Tall-slim beauty Shilpa Shetty is said to be tying the knot soon. The news is out that our diva will get married to the notable businessman Raj Kundra.

Though the news was not confirmed from the actress side, it came through her father. Her father has been approached the passport officials, demanding his and his wife’s passport stating his daughter’s marriage as the reason. The marriage was said to be held in London at the end of this year. Shilpa’s parent’s passports were withheld by the court due to a legal case. And now the actress’s father had gone to get the passports back and had stated about Shilpa’s wedding in the application.

But the latest is that the actress is really annoyed with all these shaadi rumours and stated that she is not getting married this year. In her site, Shilpa has blogged, “No, I am not getting married this year, yes I am looking at next year, but date not decided.” She has also pleaded the media to leave her dad alone – “My poor dad is already having a tough time every time he has to travel abroad and has to apply for his passport, and as always....To top it all to be hounded by journalists when he went to visit the temple made it worse. My dad's 67 and aging, please let the poor man live in peace and dignity, it's annoying.”

Hmm, now when the wedding takes place it surely will be a big-time ceremony! As for her fans, they still have time before they sing – “Churake dil hamara goriya chali!”

Triple world record holder Bolt sets his eyes on long jump

Following his world record breaking efforts, Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt has expressed a desire to set records in long jump to acquire the legend statu“I tell my coach I'd love to try the long jump before I retire. Definitely. Hopefully, I can do this before I retire because I think I''d be very good,” The Guardian quoted Bolt, as saying.

On being asked whether he would compete in 400m races on, Bolt said that he would run the one-lap distance as a season''s opener next year, but insisted that he was not keen on the event.

“I don't know. I don't want to do it, but if my coach decides I'm dominant over the 100 and 200 and let''s try something new, I''ll definitely try to put my heart into it also,” Bolt said.

Earlier, former American track and field athlete Mike Powell, holder of the long jump world record, had said that Bolt could be the first to crack nine-metres.

“With his height [6ft 5in] he is the type who would scare me. He is tall and fast. We are dealing with a freak-of-nature athlete. He is off the charts. He is destroying other athletes, making them look like kids,” Powell said.

Strauss savours Ashes win as England captain

Andrew Strauss admitted Sunday's 2-1 Ashes series triumph over Australia was more satisfying than the series win in 2005 when England won the urn for the first time in 18 years.England defeated the Australians by 197 runs at The Oval as Strauss's opposite number Ricky Ponting became the first Australian captain to lose two Ashes series in England for 119 years.

"For me personally I suppose this is more satisfying because I've captained the side, we've moved forward from 2005," he told reporters on Sunday.

"There are different personalities involved, a different management team as well and any time you win an Ashes series it's an unbelievably special moment for all of us."

Strauss led from the front by finishing as the top run-scorer in the series with 474 runs at an average of 52.66, including a best innings of 161 at Lord's where England claimed victory by 115 runs.

That was his sixth test century since the India tour in December when he compiled twin hundreds in Chennai. Such form is a far cry from the time when he struggled for runs in 2006 and 2007 that ultimately led to him being dropped for the Sri Lanka series in the English winter of 2007-08.

He saved his Test career with an innings of 177 in Napier against New Zealand in March 2008 and has not looked back since.

"It seems such a long way off," Strauss said. "I was struggling with my game, I was kind of in a pretty negative mindset about worrying about my place in the side and all that sort of stuff."

"I came back and was determined to enjoy every test match I played and that was a bit of a catalyst for me turning my form around. I suppose the captaincy has helped me with my batting. As we've demonstrated, six or seven months in cricket is a long time and things can change pretty quickly."

And the Miss Universe 2009 is...

Miss Venezuela Stefania Fernandez has been crowned as the new Miss Universe. The pageant kicked off in Bahamas early on Monday morning. The girls were judged according to three categories - swimsuit, evening gown and interview. The pageant was hosted by Access Hollywood co-anchor Billy Bush and model, actress and former Miss Rhode Island USA Claudia Jordan. The contest has been watched in over 180 countries. Three beauties from Latin America were among the top five finalists chosen to vie for the Miss Universe crown. The five finalists were from Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Kosovo, Australia and Venezuela.Stefania will be crowned by the reigning Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza of Venezuela.

'Unnaipol Oruvan' music from Aug 31

The audio of Kamal Haasan’s ‘Unnaipol Oruvan’ will be released on August 31 in Chennai. A press release from the actor's production house Raaj Kamal Films said the event would be a simple yet different affair.

A remake of Hindi hit ‘A Wednesday’, the movie with Kamal Haasan and Mohanlal in lead roles, has musical score by Shruthi Haasan. Produced by Raaj Kamal Films International in association with UTV, the film is directed by Chakri Toleti, a debutant.

According to Kamal, the movie speaks about the travails of ordinary man due to terrorist attacks. 'Terrorism is a major concern today. It is threatening to destroy our lives. The film talks about the agony and anger of an individual towards terrorism.'

Noted Tamil writer Ee Raa Murugan will make his debut as a dialogue writer, while writer Manushya Puthiran has penned the lyrics along with Kamal. The movie was shot using state-of-the-art technology.

Shriya at Toronto International Film Fest

We all know that the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) stands next to Cannes. This is definitely the most momentous fest globally and to have one’s film participate in it is a glory enough. Shriya Saran will be there, gracing the red carpet for her film ‘Cooking With Stella’. And know what? Her film will not just participate in the fest, but will also have a Gala screening!

Approximately 3000 plus films are submitted for TIFF. Of these 350- plus films are selected for the festival of which 15 will have the distinction of a Gala screening at the Roy Thomson Hall.

‘Cooking With Stella’ is a narrative that looks at a classic Indian tragedy, that of servants and employers. The film is made by Bollywood director Dilip Mehta. TIFF begins on September 10thand ‘Cooking With Stella’ will be screened on September 16th.

Let wait a little more to see our diva walking the red carpet proudly!

Abhi-Aish in ‘Dhun’

The young couple are going to follow the steps of the older couple. Can’t figure it out? Well, we meant to say that Bollywood’s hot couple Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai are going to do the famous movie ‘Abhimaan’, which starred Big B and Jaya Bachchan.

The new version is titled ‘Dhun’ and will be directed by Rajiv Menon. But the Jr. Bachchan revealed that the movie won’t be an exact remake of ‘Abhimaan’, though it is very similar to the original. When the directed had approached the sizzling couple with the project, both the actors seemed to have given their approval. Rajiv Menon had directed Aishwarya earlier in the Tamil film ‘Kandukondain Kandukondain’.

Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan are well remembered for their roles in ‘Abhimaan’ and the movie was a well acclaimed one of 1973.

Let’s see how their younger ones fare in the new versioThe young couple are going to follow the steps of the older couple. Can’t figure it out? Well, we meant to say that Bollywood’s hot couple Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai are going to do the famous movie ‘Abhimaan’, which starred Big B and Jaya Bachchan.

The new version is titled ‘Dhun’ and will be directed by Rajiv Menon. But the Jr. Bachchan revealed that the movie won’t be an exact remake of ‘Abhimaan’, though it is very similar to the original. When the directed had approached the sizzling couple with the project, both the actors seemed to have given their approval. Rajiv Menon had directed Aishwarya earlier in the Tamil film ‘Kandukondain Kandukondain’.

Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan are well remembered for their roles in ‘Abhimaan’ and the movie was a well acclaimed one of 1973.

Let’s see how their younger ones fare in the new versio

In Trott, England unearths a South African diamond

When his hundred came up, it mattered not a jot to The Oval's cheering crowd that Jonathan Trott was born and learned his crHe's as English as a cream tea now, proving it by kissing the three white lions on his England helmet to celebrate his century.

And what a knock it was. In his debut Test, Trott has not so much as exceeded expectations but entirely blown them away, proving as valuable at crunch-time against Australia as a diamond dug from a South African mine.

Trott's selection for this deciding Test was a gamble, one of several that England took and which have paid off big. Another was playing Stuart Broad, instead of spinner Monty Panesar. Given Broad's first innings demolition of Australia, with a master class of controlled swing bowling that put the Ashes within England's grasp, that selection decision ranked up there with E=mc2 for genius.

As much as many hoped that Trott would prove to be the batsman that England so badly needed to shore up its struggling middle order, few surely bet on it. There are few baptisms by fire more scorching than starting a Test career in the deciding game of the Ashes. Trott would have been excused had he wilted. Instead, he proved unflappable, playing with all the patience and control of a level-headed veteran as he notched up his century Saturday.

"He showed great composure," said Australian batsman Marcus North, who has been lumbered with much of the bowling responsibilities here because of his side's failure to field another spinner. "He applied himself exceptionally well."

Trott's 119 runs off 193 balls was the keystone in England's second innings total of 373/9. That left Australia needing a world-record 546 runs to win.

Although the Australians were refusing to concede defeat Saturday evening, the only real question now is how England will celebrate? Another open-top bus tour through downtown London, with MBEs from the queen, like in 2005? Seems a bit old hat, but also so much more than many expected going into this Test. icket in South Africa.

Sehwag to meet Jaitley on Tuesday

The crucial meeting between Virender Sehwag, who has triggered a virtual players' revolt against Delhi adminstrators, and DDCA president Arun Jaitley will be held on Tuesday to try and resolve the issues raised by the senior cricketers. Sehwag has threatened to quit the Delhi Ranji team in protest against alleged nepotism and corruption in the DDCA's sports committee but has been told to keep his decision on hold till the meeting with Jaitley.

The star Indian opener has received support from his senior Delhi teammates like Gautam Gambhir, Ishant Sharma and Ashish Nehra, who have also threatened to play for some other state in the upcoming domestic season if their grievances were not addressed. Former Delhi players have also backed the revolting cricketers.

Since both Sehwag and Jaitley were out of town, the meeting could not be scheduled earlier.

According to Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) sources, Jaitley will also talk to the top office bearers before meeting Sehwag on Tuesday.

Sources said the DDCA office-bearers were supposed to meet today to discuss the players' resentment but will now meet early next week because of Jaitley's busy schedule.

Reshuffle of the selection committee tops the agenda with the possibility of two selectors being sacked from the panel.

The agenda also includes offering BCCI-style contracts to players to provide them a sense of security

Honda to introduce electric vehicle in US in 2010

Honda Motor Co. Will join two domestic rivals in introducing electric cars, seeking to market the environmentally friendly vehicles in the United States in the first half of the 2010s, sources said today.

Honda is planning to begin full-fledged development of electric vehicles for the US market, where environmental regulations are expected to be tightened, they said.

Two other major Japanese automakers have already announced plans to introduce electric cars. Toyota Motor Corp. Plans to sell electric vehicles in the United States from 2012 while Nissan Motor Co. Is seeking to begin mass-production of such vehicles in 2010 for release in the Japanese, Europe an and US markets.

Two of President's Bodyguard get life for 2003 rape

A city court Saturday awarded life imprisonment to two members of the President's Bodyguard in the sensational 2003 Buddha Jayanti Park gang rape case.

Assistant Sessions Judge S.K. Sarvaria awarded life imprisonment to Harpreet Singh and Satender Singh for raping a 17-year-old student of a Delhi University college, while two other members, Kuldeep Singh and Manish Kumar, were given 10 years' rigorous imprisonment each.

The four have been found guilty under sections 394 (robbery), 366 (kidnapping) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Harpreet and Satender have also been convicted for gangrape under section 376 (2G) of the IPC.

The victim, who had gone with her friend to the park near Rashtrapati Bhavan on Oct 6, 2003, was raped by Harpreet and Satender while the other two Kuldeep and Manish kept watch.

The prosecution examined 25 witnesses to establish the rape charge.

The four first roughed up the girl's friend and then took her to a secluded place inside the park where they raped her, the prosecution had maintained.

Hakimullah Mehsud appointed new chief of Pak Taliban

As authorities in Islamabad asserted that the militants on the country's soil were in disarray, Pakistani Taliban on Saturday announced Hakimullah Mehsud as their new chief, days after reports claimed that he was killed in a duel with a rival claimant.

The announcement of new Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan chief, who led a campaign to impose the 'jiziya' tax on the minority Sikh community, was made by militant commander Maulvi Faqir Muhammad, who just days back had appointed himself as the successor to Baitullah Mehsud.

Though the Taliban declared appointment of a new chief, they stuck to their claim that Baitullah was still alive, but was "seriously ill and hiding".

Maulvi Faqir said a 42-member 'shura' or supreme council selected Hakimullah as the new leader during a meeting held in South Waziristan tribal region.

Along with Hakimullah, Taliban also announced that they had appointed Azam Tariq as the new spokesman for the group, after their mouthpiece Maulvi Omar was nabbed by police in a raid in Bajaur area in Tribal areas in NWFP.

Faqir also claimed Baitullah wanted a new Taliban chief to be appointed in his lifetime.
Pakistani and American officials have said they are certain that Baitullah was killed with his second wife and several guards when a drone fired missiles at his father-in-laws house on August 5.

Recently, Interior Minister Rehman Malik had quoted reports to say infighting had broken out among various Taliban factions in which Hakimullah had been killed.

The new TTP chief Hakimullah hails from powerful Mehsud Pushtun tribe and is a cousin of Baitullah. He is in his late twenties and was a strong contender for the Taliban leadership.

Hakimullah has also served as spokesman for Baitullah and led Taliban militants in the Khyber and Orakzai tribal agencies, where he imposed jiziya on Sikhs, forcing them to flee the area.

He is also the cousin of Qari Hussain, known as trainer of suicide bombers, who is said to be responsible for dozens of attacks across Pakistan.

Hakimullah has good contacts with Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, a Sunni group that often targets the minority Shia community.

He also has good contacts in Punjab and Sindh and has trained a large number of Punjabi Taliban militants in South Waziristan. He has used the Punjabi militants to carry out suicide attacks outside the tribal belt.

Maulvi Faqir, who spoke to reporters in Peshawar on phone from an undisclosed location, said the Taliban are ready for a dialogue but the Pakistan government has no power to talk to the militants or to maintain peace as "foreign forces" are controlling it.

Taliban leaders from the tribal and settled regions of Pakistan attended the shura meeting, which selected a new chief in view of Baitullah's illness, he said

When will 'Eenadu' release?

'Eenadu' is the multilingual movie with lots of expectations. It is the remake of Bollywood hit “A Wednesday” and is being made in Tamil and Telugu.

It stars Kamal Haasan and Venkatesh in Telugu and is being directed by Chakri Toleti. Though it was earlier announced that the movie will release on August 12th, the movie is yet to be released.

Now sources claim that the movie might be released on September 18th. The Hindi version received positive acclaim from the critics.

Let us wait and see how the legends pull off the southern version since this is a new genre that the audience here is not much exposed to.

All the best for this folks!!!

It’s not about money: Anushka

After scoring one of the biggest hits of all times with 'Arundhathi', Anushka has become one of the most popular actresses in the circuit. The actress is the most sought after and one of the highest paid in the industry.

According to sources, she charges more than a crore for a movie. Meanwhile Anushka seems to have claimed that she is not a person who works for just money. She said that she balances between a good script and remuneration.

Just tempting remuneration alone cannot make her accept a movie, she added. Apparently, Anushka is known to be a very cooperative and flexible actress when it comes to her movie projects.

Keep it up pretty girl!!!

Heroines in the one crore club

The whole world is harping about recession which seems to have affected our film industry as well. The producers are trying their best to cut costs and make movies with certain budget constraints.

However our heroes do not seem to be affected by what is going on and they are remuneration packages are sky high. Even our heroines are not left far behind.

According to sources actresses like Ileana, Anushka and Genelia charge more than a crore for their movies. Actresses like Trisha, Nayanthara and Hansika are not far behind. Wonder how the producers are going to address this issue and before that, how do they even manage to generate such sort of amounts.

Ranbir had enough of his beard

One would have been aghast at Ranbir Kapoor’s bearded looks at the recent ‘Wake up Sid’ press meet. Well, it seems the actor himself was unhappy with his overgrown ‘dadi’. Ranbir who is acting in Shimit Amin's ‘Rocket Singh’ plays a Sardar complete with a turban and beard. But the beard is now becoming a problem for the actor as he is needed to have a clean shaven face for ‘Wake up Sid’ and Prakash Jha's ‘Rajneeti’.

According to sources, ‘Rocket Singh’ has come to an end and was supposed to wrap up on August 14, but got delayed by a couple of days which has kept the actor's beard on. There is a video song left for ‘Wake up Sid’ so he has to make sure he finishes his shoot of ‘Rocket Singh’ to remove his beard. Sources further added, "The actor himself has got exhausted with the beard and wants to remove it as soon as possible. This is probably the first time Ranbir has kept such a grown beard on him for such a long period. He has been making public appearances too in this avtaar of his."

It seems Shimit Amin is very particular about Ranbir's natural beard and doesn't want him to don a fake beard either.

Poor Ranbir!

Bolt would have been in danger of nabbing a speeding ticket!

Berlin: Jamaican Usain Bolt, who broke the world 100 metre record on Monday, is said to have run so fast that he was in danger of getting a speeding ticket.Bolt set the world record at 9.58 seconds, a huge reduction from the old record of 9.69 he ran a year previously at the Beijing Olympics.

According to the Daily Express, no one has ever carved such a big chunk off the world’s fastest time since electronic timing was introduced.

Maurice Greene taking Donovan Bailey’s record from 9.84 to 9.79 10 years ago was thought a huge achievement – but it did not compare with this.

At his fastest Bolt clocked 30 mph.

Bolt begins again this morning in the 200m. He will be cool until the final, then let those long legs go in another explosion of pace. His world record at the Olympics was 19.30.

Bolt wants to finish his career as a legend.

"The first few chapters are going well. It’s getting there but two seasons can’t do it,” he said.

“I have to keep doing it year after year. I could go 9.4, but I think the world stops at 9.4. For me, 9.5 is definitely a big thing. I’m proud of myself because I’m the first man to have done that,”

Gambhir, Ishant and Nehra back Sehwag's anti-DDCA tirade

A day after Virender Sehwag levelled charges of nepotism against the Delhi District and Cricket Association (DDCA), three other prominent Delhi cricketers have come out in the dashing batsman's support. Indian opening batsman Gautam Gambhir as well as pace bowlers Ishant Sharma and Ashish Nehra have come out in full support of Sehwag. Gambhir has in fact said if things don't improve, he will move out of Delhi this year itself.

Gambhir is quoted as telling The Indian Express, "I am completely behind Sehwag. There is a need to bring about tranparency in the selection process. If things don't improve, I will not hesitate to move out of Delhi this year itself."

Ishant also echoed Gambhir's views and said, "I am in complete support of Viru Bhai. He is absolutely right about selection issues and things can definately be much better."

Nehra opines that this is probably the last chance the DDCA has to get things right. "The manner in which the DDCA functions, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to leave Delhi," he was quoted as saying.

On Monday, Sehwag hasd claimed that some selectors group together to force a player of their choice into the side, leaving the captain and selection committee chairman powerless. He has also alleged manipulation in the selection of Delhi under-16 and under-19 teams.

The Delhi team, which won the 2007-08 Ranji title, failed to even make the knock-out stage last season. Sehwag did not play a single match last season because of his engagements with the national team.

Sehwag, who is currently in Bangalore undergoing rehabilitation for his injured shoulder, has been told to put his decision to leave on hold till he meets DDCA President Arun Jaitley. The meeting is likely to take place on August 27 or 28 to discuss the matter.

Vettaikkaran Preview

The hype is high whenever Vijay starts a film. It’s double for Vettaikkaran, for the buzz is that the actor is in a mood to start a political party. Not just his fans, but those interested at cinema and politics too eagerly wait for the release of the movie, expecting some implicit message in it.

Directed by Babu Sivan, a former associate of Dharani, the film is being produced by AVM Balasubramanian and B Gurunath Meiyappan for AVM. After a role in the Tamil film ‘Rendu’ opposite Madhavan, Tollywood heroine Anushka is making her comeback in Kollywood with Vettaikaran.

She says, “I am a great fan of Vijay. I have seen his movies several times. I had no hesitation in accepting the offer when AVM and director Babu Sivan approached me. It is a breezy entertainer and acting with him is a delight.”

The debutant director, who promises that ‘Vettaikkaran’ will be a completely commercial film, with great songs, action sequences and a message, adds: “I am really excited. It is such an honour to work for an AVM production starring Vijay as hero. His appeal and reach are just amazing.”

Vijay Anthony, who is scoring music for the first time for a Vijay movie, says “Usually, people say my compositions are full of energy. But, when they combine with Vijay’s energetic steps, the effect is bound to be something else.”

Will the story come to an end without a quote from Vijay? Certainly not. The actor says: “The crew has a strong contingent of technicians, including cinematographer Ravivarman, music director Vijay Antony, art director Milan and editor V T Vijayan. Babu Sivan is a man of talents. So, I am sure about the success of Vettaikaran.

Dr. Kamal Haasan Road in Chennai soon!

A big milestone in Kalaignani Kamal Hassan's career was his golden jubilee in Indian film Industry, which was celebrated recently. The film Industry and his fans are glad and proud about this achievement. Every one has a different plan to celebrate this great occasion in a novel way and here is one of them.

Nadigar Sangam President Sarathkumar shared his thoughts on Kamal’s contributions in these 50 years, in a press meet recently. He also said that the big screen celebrities will initiate to rename the Eldams Road as Dr. Kamal Haasan Road soon. Director Murugadoss also announced this plan in another gathering that, “We should rename the Eldams road in Alwarpet as Kamal Haasan Road. We should honour him for giving us fifty years of grand cinema.”

We too wish the same, right people?

Sneha’s new shapes

Sneha is one of the few actresses who have a large number of women fans. The smiling beauty has been the most sought after actresses in terms of traditional and girl-next-door roles.

However these days she is making changes in her roles. She is acting in “Bhavani IPS” which is a women oriented action packed movie. She is already being compared to Vijayshanthi for her role.

Moreover, according to sources, she is also acting in a film titled “Goa” where she is playing a negative role supposedly. With glamour, action and also shades of villainy, this must indeed be a challenge for this sensuous beauty.

Watch out for the new and dashing Sneha folks!

Can Swetha help Vaibhav??

Young Vaibhav may not be a popular star but he is making steady progress in Kollywood. better known as the son of the veteran director Kodhandarami Reddy, Vaibhav is also trying to make his mark in Tollywood. He has acted in one Telugu movie ‘Godava’ which was a dud.

According to sources, he is currently busy with the new movie and it is at post production stage at the moment. After a long thought process it has been titled “Kasko”. The music for the movie has been composed by Premji Amaran.

The giggly beauty Swetha Basu Prasad will be the leading lady of the movie and given her streak of successes, many are hoping that she might just be the lucky mascot for Vaibhav to make his footing here.

Trisha’s link with Prabhu Deva

Petite beauty Trisha is one of the most sought after actresses in south. She is all set to make her debut in Bollywood as well. Though she is the ruling queen, she had her tough times as well.

In an interview she spoke about her initial days in the industry. She said that she was a ballet dancer which was not popular in India. However it was the dancing sensation Prabhu Deva who motivated her and made her confident. She said that she owes her success to Prabhu Deva and states that if she is able to get her moves right and that too with grace, the credit goes to that dancing master.

Trisha is currently busy with the wrapping up of her Telugu movie ‘Sankham’.

'Magadheera' Special Show For MLAs In INOX

Chiranjeevi has decided to screen a special show fore all MLAs of AP State Legislative Assembly at INOX theatre 7:30 PM today (Tuesday 18th Aug 2009). Chiranjeevi discussed on phone sitting in his PRP chamber inside Assembly Bhawan regarding the arrangements for special screening. This special show is being arranged on the pressure of all MLAs of all parties.

Vanga Geetha and Kanna Babu of PRP said that they are being ridiculed by other party MLAs for not being able to arrange tickets for the movie in which their party leader's son acted.

The tickets were issued for MLAs around 4-5 each to make them watch film with all of their family members.

Nag In Bilingual Film

Nagarjuna is the hero who is known for giving opportunities for proven directors. Now we are talking about Radha Mohan, the director of ‘Akasamantha’ starring Prakash Raj, Trisha and Jagapathi Babu. This talented director has attracted Nag with that film and hence bagged a chance to work with him.

On the other hand Nagarjuna’s son Naga Chaitanya is going busy with his second film in the direction of Goutham Menon. The pooja is already over on Saturday. Nag is going to get busy with this new film in the direction of Radha Mohan shortly.

The film with Nag is going to be a bilingual and this happens to be second time for him to hit Tamil screen after ‘Rachchagan’ (Rakshakudu in Telugu) with Sushmitha Sen.

26/11 trial: Mobiles used by terrorists were from China

In yet another evidence of Pakistan link to the 26/11 terror attacks, a witness today told the special court here that five mobile phones used by terrorists in the dastardly act were manufactured by Nokia Inc in China and shipped to Pakistan in June 2008.The witness, Enforcement Manager of Nokia in the US, whose name has been withheld, deposed through video conference from the FBI office in USA.

Five Nokia mobile phones were recovered by the Mumbai police from the nine slain terrorists and FBI's help was sought to determine from where they have procured.

She is the third witness to talk about Pakistan link in the case. Earlier, a forensic expert of FBI had told the court the terrorist had used GPS to arrive from Karachi to Mumbai by sea route.

Nehru, Patel 'conceded' Pakistan to Jinnah: Jaswant Singh

Mohammed Ali Jinnah did not win Pakistan as Congress leaders Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel "conceded" Pakistan to the Quaid-e-Azam with the British acting as an ever helpful midwife, sIn his new book "Jinnah - India, Partition, Independence", which will hit the stands on August 17, he recalls the events leading to Partition as well as the "epic journey of Jinnah from being the ambassador of Hindu-Muslim unity, the liberal constitutionalist and Indian nationalist to the Quaid-e-Azam of Pakistan".

Jaswant raises several questions on partition. "...How did you divide a geographic (also geo-political) unity? Through a 'surgical operation', Mountbatten (the last British viceroy) had said, and tragically Nehru and Patel and the Congress party had assented, Jinnah, in any event having demanded adopting to just a recourse," he writes in the book, excerpts from which have been reproduced by India Today magazine.

"...Jinnah did not win Pakistan, as the Congress leaders - Nehru and Patel finally conceded Pakistan to Jinnah, with the British acting as an ever helpful midwife," Singh says in his 669-page book.

"The cruel truth is that this partitioning of India has actually resulted in achieving the very reverse of the originally intended purpose; partition, instead of settling contention between communities has left us a legacy of markedly enhanced Hindu, Muslim, Sikh or other such denominational identities, hence differences...," the book says.ays senior BJP leader Jaswant Singh.

August 14, 1990 : Sachin Tendulkar scores his first Test century

Indian batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar has come a long way in international cricket since making his international debut against Pakistan as a teenager. Sir Don Bradman had said that Tendulkar is the one batsman who comes closest to his own batting style, and if one takes a look at the records of these two legends, it wouldn't be tough to understand the reason for the Don expressing that opinion. Tendulkar now has 42 Test centuries to his name and looks good for a few more, but he scored his maiden ton in the longest form of the game against England at Old Trafford in August 1990. Tendulkar, who was then the second youngest batsman behind Pakistan's Mushtaq Mohammad to score a Test century, remained unbeaten on 119 and it was his partnership with Manoj Prabhakar for the seventh wicket on the last day that saved the match for India. Mushtaq's record was broken by Bangladesh batsman Mohammad Ashraful in September 2001 against Sri Lanka.

In the Old Trafford Test from August 10-14, 1990, England captain Graham Gooch won the toss and elected to bat first. England spurred on by centuries from Gooch, Michael Atherton and Robin Smith made 519 in the first innings with Narendra Hirwani (62-10-174-4) being the most successful of the Indian bowlers. India's response was led by captain Mohammad Azharuddin, who made 179, with Sanjay Manjrekar (93) and Tendulkar (68) making useful contributions, as the tourists wre bowled out for 432 with Angus Fraser (5-124) being the pick of the English bowlers.

Allan Lamb (109), Atherton (74) and Smith (61*) led England's charge in the second innings as the home team declared after scoring 320 for 4, setting India a target of 408 runs to square the series.

Its Shankar for Suriya

Directed by KS Ravikumar, ‘Aadhavan’ is Suriya’s next film after his ‘Ayan’. ‘Aadhavan’ will feature Suriya with negative shades who woos Nayantara.

The film that kick-started in the month of February is ready to launch its music on this August 19th. The audio of this movie produced by Udhayanidhi Stalin on behalf of Red Giant Movies will be released by director Shankar and received by Sri. Rama Narayanan. Versatile actor Mohanlal will also grace the function among other VIPs of the industry.

The music album of ‘Aadhavan’ has six songs, which are composed by Harris Jayaraj.

The film also has Saroja Devi playing a rich woman, who lives like a queen in a big palace like bungalow. Looks like Suriya plays a servant who wishes to take revenge on the family. However things change and he becomes the head of the family by falling in love with Nayantara, grand daughter of Saroja Devi.

Nitin with apple pie beauty

Youth star Nitin had his better days. However for a long time now, his movies have been bombing at the box office. With lots of expectations, he was looking forward to ‘Adavi’ to change his fortune but that has not worked.

He is currently acting in “Rechipo” which stars Ileana as the female lead. Meanwhile according to sources he has been offered to play the lead in another flick as well. The movie will be directed by Eswar Reddy of “Siddu from Seekakulam” fame.

However the highlight is that apple pie beauty Hansika Motwani will play the female lead in this flick.

Hamsa takes up martial arts

The tall and lanky beauty Hamsa Nandini has caught some attention with her movie “Adhineta”. She is slowly making her presence felt in the industry.

Now according to sources, the tall beauty is taking up martial arts. Sources claim that she has already learnt sword fighting. Meanwhile, the actress who hails from Pune is also learning Telugu. Well looks like she does not want to leave anything to chance and giving her best for her roles.

Even actresses Nayanthara and Anushka are said to have taken to martial arts and perhaps that is one reason for their perfect figures.

Ileana’s fitness secret

Ileana is popularly known as the ‘Andaala Khazana” heroine. Her last movie “Kick” was a big hit which has increased her popularity manifolds. The sexy doll is known for her well kept figure as well.

According to sources, she is in love with water. She unwinds herself from her busy schedule by swimming.

She claims that the best place in the world for her is her swimming pool at the backyard of her home in Goa and whenever she is home, she ensures that a lot of time is spent in the water. Looks like water gives Ileana the ‘kick’ of life.

Kajal’s Mr. Perfect

Kajal Agarwal who has been riding high with the success of ‘Magadheera’ is all set to set the screens on fire once again. She is about to make her mark with some big banner movies.

The saucy seductress recently spoke about her perfect man. She said that she does not give importance to looks but he should be taller than her. She also expects him to be good at heart.

She added that her man should have a good sense of humor and should make her laugh. Well, it will be interesting to see who that ‘Magadheera’ of her life would be.

Gopichand pairs with Anushka again

Aggressive hero Gopichand who has been scoring hit after hit is currently busy with the wrapping up of his new movie ‘Sankham’. Meanwhile, there is news that he has been roped in for a new venture by the famous RR Movie makers of ‘Kick’ fame.

The producer of this happens to be Venkat and he has announced that Gopi would be pairing up with none other than the luscious beauty Anushka. Both Gopi and Anushka have already delivered a hit with ‘Lakshyam’ and right now, the RR Team is working on deciding the other cast and crew for the film.

The movie is presented by K Atchi Reddy while Co- Producer is V Suresh Reddy.

Akriti Kakar goes Patriotic!

Young singer Akriti Kakar is exuberant! Well, she’s got a pretty good reason to be and that naturally gets her tickled pink! Akriti recently finished recording the revamped version of ‘Meri Desh Ki Dharti’ along with Daler Mehndi, for the up coming film ‘Kisaan’. The original being sung by Manoj Kumar in the film ‘Upkaar’, was a big hit and almost became as famous as our National Anthem!

We got in touch with the talented singer, who shared, “As a child when I was part of Kalyan ji Anand ji’s little wonder troupe, we use to sing this one song in all our trips abroad as well as India and I also remember meeting lyricist Gulshan Bawra, then. Today when I met the duo, I was so nostalgic. At the same time I feel privileged to have lent my voice to such a historic score.”

We bet that must have been one proud moment for you girl

Emraan Hashmi speaks out!

Actor Emraan Hashmi raised a storm about being discriminated as a Muslim. Here are some FAQs:

With Mahesh Bhatt’s help, you ran an entire campaign against the Pali Hill Society for discriminating against you for being a Muslim, only to pull out. Why?

I didn’t pull out. I have mentioned this earlier too. It is a clear example of how Chinese whispers operate. There is a certain section of the press that stated this.

After the Minority Commission’s meeting, you said that there was some miscommunication because of the agent and the Society did not discriminate against you.

I repeat that I did not say that there was any miscommunication. I stand by what I said. It was some media house that radically distorted what I said. I sat down for a small two minute press conference after we adjourned the meeting and said that the matter has been blown out of proportion. I also advised the press to speak to the Minority Commission representatives and my lawyer and take their legal comments. My silence was misconstrued as backtracking. The press divided itself. Some said that I am backtracking and some were fair and said that the decision was the Commission’s verdict.

When you were denied a No Objection Certificate by the Society, what gave you the impression that they are discriminating against you because you are a Muslim?

I don’t want to go back into what I said a week ago because it has already created a lot of controversy. I didn’t make a hue and cry out of thin air. I had reasons to believe that they discriminated against me on religious grounds.

The media alleges that you gave up the issue for peace. What was the pressure?

The best way to resolve the issue was to approach a legal body, which was the Minority Commission. They were a hearing and both the parties sat across the table. The Minority Commission felt that the issue had been blown out of the proportion and had been politicized. They wanted to reach a peaceful agreement. I respected the Commission’s stand and accepted their verdict. Having said that, when I was in the meeting I did not back out from my stand. I did raise the issue of discrimination against Muslims.

The Society residents now expect a public apology.

Nothing of that sort. A lot of these things were cleared up in the meeting. The press had written that my parents had barged in the Society meeting but the Society accepted that nothing like that had happened.

So will you be buying the flat now?

Right now, the seller has backed out. But the Society has told me that there will be no issues if I want to buy a flat.

It is alleged that this controversy was a publicity stunt.

There are people who are saying that it is a publicity stunt. As an actor, as a citizen of this country I have the right to speak up about my experiences. Rather than breathe down my throat and tell me that what I am doing is wrong, why not hear someone out.

Nobody from Bollywood, except Mahesh Bhatt, supported you. Salman Khan even said that the matter depends on a person’s character and not religion.

That’s wrong. Lots of people spoke up for me. That’s his point of view. Because it has not happened to them does not mean it cannot happen to me. At the same time, I don’t want to generalize and say that it happens with the entire country. I am talking about my individual experiences and I should be given a chance to speak about it. that what I am doing is wrong, why not hear someone out.

First International Film Festival in Vijayawada

In what is being seen as one of the most historic moments of the Indian film industry and also the Telugu folks, the first ever international film festival is said to be happening in the city of Vijayawada and this was announced by the Federation of Film Societies of India (FFSI).

The date has been decided as the 4th of October and it will carry on for about six days. The festival will have films from India and foreign countries and a total of 25 movies would be screened as part of it.

The FFSI members have also mentioned that this would be an ongoing process starting this year and they will also be concentrating on other places like Visakhapatnam, Coimbatore in Tamilnadu.

This is in coincidence with the 37th anniversary of the Vijayawada Film society.

Microsoft backs long life for IE6

Microsoft has underlined support for its Internet Explorer 6 web browser, despite acknowledging its flaws.

The software giant said it would support IE6 until 2014 - four years beyond the original deadline.

Critics - some of which have started an online campaign - want the eight-year-old browser mothballed because they claim it slows the online experience.

"Friends do not let friends use IE6," said Amy Barzdukas, Microsoft's general manager for Internet Explorer.

"If you are in my social set and I have been to your house for dinner, you are not using IE6," she said. "But it is much more complicated when you move into a business setting."

"It's hard to be cavalier in this economy and say 'oh it's been around for so long they need to upgrade,'" Ms Barzdukas told journalists in San Francisco..

Web monitoring firms estimate that 15-20% of people still use IE6 to browse the web.

Our headlines may sound strange, especially as it talks about one of Hindi cinema's most handsome hunk, John Abraham, who has girls swooning over his immaculate physique and charming personality. But the statement comes from his co-star of one of his upcoming and yet untitled film.

The actress in question is a star in her own rights, a well loved and admired television artist, Kavita Kaushik, more popularly known as Chandramukhi Chautala, whose lovable Haryanvi cop act (Sony's FIR) inspired Neetu Chandra's role in ONE TWO THREE.

BCCI allows ex-ICL players to play in IPL 3

In a major decision, the Cricket Board today paved the way for the entry of ex-Indian Cricket League players numbering over 75 in the third edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) starting on March 12 at Hyderabad.The Board took this decision at its all-powerful Working Committee meeting here that also approved a whopping increase in the prize money for Ranji Trophy champions and a grant of Rs 25 crore to the All India Football Federation spread over two years.

"The ex-ICL players who have been granted amnesty (numbering 79) are eligible to play the IPL in the next season (2010) with a cap on the payment being a maximum of Rs 20 lakh," BCCI Secretary N Srinivasan said in a media statement.

But apparently there's a rider to this green signal which has not been spelt out officially but was confirmed by other BCCI sources, who said no player against whom match- fixing charges have been levelled (by ICL), notably ex-international Dinesh Mongia of Punjab, would be allowed to take part in the cash-rich T20 event.

"Players against whom match-fixing chargers are there would not be allowed to play in IPL," the sources said after the meeting.

The winners of the Ranji Trophy in the coming season would get Rs two crore, Rs 1.4 crore more than what Mumbai got for clinching the title for the 38th time last season

Review: 'Kaminey'

A few monsoons ago, Farah Khan paid homage to the cinema of 1970s with Om Shanti Om. Now Bhardwaj picks up characters that we have witnessed on the Hindi screen before, but executes it like Tarantino and Guy Ritchie do. He creates a film that's so different from movies we've witnessed thus far.

'Kaminey' is bold, stark, funny and unpredictable and that's what works in its favour. There're two more reasons: Shahid Kapoor and of course, 'Dhan Te Nan'. Okay, we've seen Shahid pitching in a sincere act in his earlier films, but 'Kaminey' should catapult him to superstardom. His double role in 'Kaminey' is exemplary.

There's another star in 'Kaminey' and that's 'Dhan Te Nan'. Your heart starts beating faster every time you hear this in the background or also when Shahid breaks into the song. The track is as big a craze as 'Jumma Chumma' [Hum, 'Ek Do Teen' [Tezaab] and 'Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai' [Khal-Nayak] and will contribute enormously in attracting viewers in hordes.

Ileana’s love for pets

Actors and actresses are known for their love towards pets. Many of them have pets and there are some who have even different types of pets. Even the striking beauty Ileana is no different.

According to sources, the Goan beauty has 7 cats and 2 dogs at her home. Speaking about them, she said that they are her biggest stress busters. She seems to have even gifted a cat to her mom recently for her wedding anniversary.

The andala khazana girl is delighted with the success of her megahit “Kick” and is gearing up to arrive with her next venture ‘Rechchipo’ along with youth star Nithin.

‘I am not Hanuman in Raavan’ – Govinda

What started as a cameo role has been transcended into a full-length characterization. That’s really great news for Govinda, the self-aggrandizing actor, who has pinned more hopes on Mani Rathnam’s ‘Raavan’. Recently, there were buzzes that Govinda’s outlandishness had its impact on the filmmaker.

‘If that is the fact, why would Mani Rathnam offer me another project?’ says Govinda who promises that it’s been a great time working for this film. Adding more about buzzes relating his role with mythological character of Hanuman, the actor utters, “There isn’t anything to do with the role of Hanuman. I am enacting the role of man guiding a person (Vikram) badly running to save his wife (Aishwarya Rai) kidnapped by a notorious outcast (Abhishek Bacchan).”

Followed by mahout’s death, the entire crew has shifted to Ooty, where Govinda will join them on August 18. Also the actor has confirmed that he performs full-fledged prominent role that will be enacted by Kollywood's reigning actor Karthik in Tamil version

Trisha is tidy

Guess what’s the topmost priority of Trisha? The answer is cleanliness. For, keeping surroundings clean and tidy had always occupied the top position in the actress’s wishlist.

“It is a habit from my childhood. My first thing after coming from school was to take a broom and clean the home. My mother would appreciate me a lot for this habit of mine,” she says.

The actress adds: “The habit still continues. Whatever may be the time of my returning home, I would go to bed only after cleaning my room, laptop, music system and wardrobe.”