Bhansali's Ram Leela to clash with SRK's Chennai Express next Dussehra

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is likely to release his Ranveer Singh-Deepika Padukone film in Dassera 2013

Shah Rukh Khan's film with Rohit Shetty is also due to release on the same date. Will it be a clash like the 2007 clash of Bhansali's Saawariya and SRK's Om Shanti Om?

Imran Khan's brother-in-law Vedant Malik will make his B-Town debut. His mum Vandana Malik is greenlighting the project. Vedant has done an acting course and worked as an assistant for the Imran-Kareena starrer Ek Main aur Ekk Tu.

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Sanjay Leela Bhansali opens up in a never-before tete-a-tete

Sanjay Leela Bhansali opens up on the agony of watching his sister's directorial debut being delayed

It has take your sister Bela a good ten years to direct her first film. A lot of people blame you for the delay?
Things happen when they are destined to happen. I am aware that people thought I was the banyan tree which doesn't allow any other tree to grow in its shade. The thought that people held me responsible for my sister's career not taking off killed me from inside. 

You'd be surprised to know that she held my hand and introduced me to the wonders of cinema. She took me to the FTII and she introduced into the film industry.

I owe everything I am today to her. Maybe I was fortunate to have directed a film before her. But rightfully she should have directed before me. 

You could have prodded her to direct her film long before? 
At times I used to wonder if she was taking so long to direct a film because she spent so much time editing my films. But there was nothing I could do. Bela was always part of my creativity. 

She edited all my films until Black and then she decided it was time for her to direct her own film. She was always very clear that she wanted to start as an editor and then direct a film. 

She wanted to direct a film only after I made Devdas. Still, there was a nagging feeling inside me that I may be slowing down her creative journey by holding on to her in the capacity of an editor for my films. I really missed her editing in Saawariya and Guzaarish. 
I believe you and Bela had violent physical fights over the editing of your films? 
Oh yes (laughs). I was like a tiger protecting inch of my footage. She was ruthless. She would tell me on my face that certain things had to go. She ceased to be a sister and became an editor. 

We've gone at each other like two cats, with our horrified assistants trying to separate us from both sides. We were obnoxious in the editing room. But she made the right decisions. And now you can see that same ruthless economy of expression in her own film. 

Her film is just 1 hour 45 minutes long, not a minute longer than it needed to be. I miss her in the editing room. But when I saw what she had directed I am glad she has moved on. 

How do you feel when she is finally ready with her film? 
Bela's film is infinitely superior to my first film Khamoshi: The Musical. I wish I had made Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi. I am too numb to react. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of activities. I am in the process of starting my own film too. So it's like the birth of twins.

I am super-excited, super-happy, super-nervous. We were planning Bela's film Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi for 8 years. Only I know what I agony I've suffered in these 8 years. The delay wasn't only because she is my sister. Some actors walked out of Shirin Farhad...I'd rather not talk about these ugly things. 

Because we finally succeeded in getting the perfect cast. We all worked with the courage of conviction, so no grudges against those who let us down. I can't imagine Shirin Farhad happening with any other two actors except Boman Irani and Farah Khan. 

They are so entertaining that I was tempted to cast them as my Romeo and Juliet, if only Rome and Juliet were a little older. 
You're also producing a film on Mary Kom? 
This is my first biographical film. And it's the story of someone very special, someone who has done our country very proud. Even cinematically no Indian film on a woman boxer has been made so far, though in the West Clint Eastwood directed that wonderful film Million Dollar Baby. 

So I am really looking forward to it. My art director Omang Kumar came to me with the subject. He had been researching Mary Kom's life for over a year. She is phenomenal. A female boxing world champion, a housewife and a mother of two. It's amazing how many roles women can juggle with. 

I've seen my mother play so many roles. Mary's story is very inspiring. When I read Omang's script I connected to it immediately. But it would be very difficult to cast any actress as Mary Kom. 
Your sister's film releases just when you're ready to direct your next film Ram Leela? 
First, the title is not final. Secondly, yes it is a hectic. And I am over-worked. But I am enjoying every minute of me. And Bela's film is as much hers as mine. But yeah, I'm also working on my film. And that's not easy when my sister is venturing out with her first film. 

Coincidentally you too are venturing out with a light-hearted film, very far removed from the grave issues of Devdas, Black and Guzaarish? 
My next film is very young, very breezy. It's a very different take on Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet. I am really looking forward to getting to it. But Devdas, Black and Guzaarish were not serious films. Yes they dealt with alcoholism, death and self-destruction.

But they were happy films. They raised serious issues but never forgot the laughter and sunshine. During Black Rani and I would laugh so much between shots we'd have tears rolling down our cheeks. 

Watching Bela shoot with Boman and Farah was equally entertaining. For all those who are wondering, why Farah Khan when she has no acting experience my answer is, 'Watch her comic timing with Boman'. Farah is as entertaining on screen as she's in person. 
Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi recommends love past an age not socially permissible in our society. Do you think love is possible after 45? 
Why not? I love Bela's concept of love striking two people who are seen as past the age of marriage. Love can strike at 45 or 85. I am 49, and I am still waiting for love to happen.

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Bhansali gets Farah for Free

Farah Khan unwittingly lets out that she has done Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi for free.

No money has been discussed. No contract has ben drawn up. Sanjay and I are just working together because we're friends. He was so encouraging. I was scared to look at myself on the monitor. 

Sanjay would drag me to see the rushes. In fact after I saw the full film recently I rushed to a doctor's clinic for a tummy tuck. I looked so fat! At 3pm the trial ended. At 4pm I was at the doctor's clinic. 

And now when he says I've given a brilliant performance in Shirin Farhad ...I feel like one of his heroines, right up there with Manisha Koirala, Madhu Dixit and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. If it's an acting assignment from Sanjay Bhansali, I don't mind. If he wants me to do Ram Leela I am game. Is the heroine's post still vacant? 

At the moment Farah is neckdeep in her promotions of her new film Shirin Farah Ki Toh Nikal Padi. As we spoke she received a call from her producer Sanjay Leela Bhansali that there would be a preview of the film on Thursday evening. 

Harrowed with overwork Farah cribs, We were not supposed to have a preview screening. Now I suddenly have 24 hours notice from my dear producer to invite all my friends. I am not even in Mumbai. Who will come at such a short notice? And I've nothing to wear. 

I am expected to change three times a day for three events, or else the media will print 'same-to-same' pictures. I am also, for some strange reason expected to perform dance steps at events to promote my film. But you know what? I'd do anything for Sanjay and the film. 
Farah has also done a cameo in her husband Shirish Kunder's Joker. And as luck would have it, Joker is releasing a week after Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi. So I'm promoting my own film and my husband's film. That too is my own baby, no? 

In Joker Farah plays herself. I play choreographer Farah Khan who comes to the fictional town of Pagalpur to shoot a song. I've played myself earlier in my own Main Hoon Na in one shot with the end-titles and also in Milap Jhaveri's Jaane Kahan Se Aayee Hai. 

Technically that's not acting. So all the awards jury who would want to disqualify me for the best debutante's award, please note Shirin Farhad...is my actual acting debut. 

It is also likely to be Farah's only acting assignment. No more acting for me. I don't see myself flooded with acting offers. I don't see producers running after me with fat signing amounts. 

Nor do I see myself lathering myself with Lux beauty soap in a bath tub after my film releases.Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi is going to be my only film as an actress. I've too much on the plate to give time to acting. 

My three kids need me more than anyone else. Every time I've to wrench myself away my children for shooting my heart breaks. Luckily I am taking them with me to Hyderbad when I shoot the Himmatwala song. 

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Sharad Kelkar's big break in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus?

Sources say that the television actor has been roped in for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus Ram Leela

Looks like one more TV actor is all set to make the big leap to the big screen. Sources say that Sharad Kelkar has been approached to play a pivotal role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus, starring Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone.

A source says, Sharad is expected to take part in the first schedule as well as the outdoor schedule, which will commence by end of this month in Mumbai.

Currently, Bhansali is busy working on the pre-production of his film. Our sources also add that the actor has signed the film but is now allowed to divulge details.

The source adds, Sharad is in talks with Bhansali. Things will get clearer over the next two days.` Sharad remained unavailable for the comment.

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Did SRK, Bhansali call a truce?

Buzz is that Shah Rukh Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have buried their hatchet and could work together again in the near future

Post working in Devdas, Shah Rukh Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali's friendship went kaput, thanks to Om Shanti Om and Saawariya clashing at the box office. Angry words were exchanged and the two didn't speak to each other after that. But, buzz is that the past is all about to change.

Both SRK and SLB were present at the promotional event for Bela Sehgal's new film, where the two released its official poster.

Our sources say that post the event, Shah Rukh was whisked away by Bhansali to his new office. The source says, `The two reminisced about their old days together.`
In fact buzz is that both even discussed the prospects of doing a film together again. 

The source adds, `Both discussed the logistics and where it can be based and who all could be cast in the project. Their conversation went on till late night.` After all, in Bollywood it's never too late to start afresh! 

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Dildo-la spoof not aimed at Bhansali's Devdas: Tusshar

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali is said to be upset with a spoof on his movie "Devdas" in the film "Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum". However, actor Tusshar Kapoor says there was no intention of hurting anyone.

"I don't have any information about whether he is upset or not. But even if he is, when he sees the film, he'll get an idea that we have not made fun of the film," said Tusshar.

The adult-comedy has a scene where the actresses, Neha Sharma and Sarah Jane Dias are dressed as Chandramukhi and Paro, while Tusshar Kapoor is seen as Devdas. It is this scene which has reportedly rubbed Bhansali the wrong way.

But Tusshar says the scene is not a mockery of Bhansali's "Devdas" alone.

"It doesn't really connect to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Devdas'. The old ones ('Devdas' movies) also had Paro and Chandramukhi and the costumes were also the same, and Devdas even had a bottle in his hand. So this is no one's copyright.

"But I don't think he is upset. His 'Devdas' was a hit film, that's why we have imitated it. If it not had been a hit, there would not have been any mention of it. He should be happy and I am sure he is," added the 35-year-old.

"Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum", releasing Friday, also features Riteish Deshmukh.

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Is Sanjay miffed with Neha and Sarah's Devdas spoof ?

Sources say that the filmmaker is irritated with the spoofs on 'Devdas' in 'Kya Super Kool Hain Hum'

Ekta Kapoor’s upcoming comedy sequel has pulled a spoof on several films. But looks like the makers have now rubbed Sanjay Leela Bhansali the wrong way with their act on Devdas. Apparently, the filmmaker is not at all amused with this antic.

A source informs us, “Ekta’s upcoming film with Tusshar, Neha Sharma and Sarah Jane is a spoof on Bhansali with the song Dil dola re dola playing in the background. When the director learnt about it, he was not amused. 

Now the same is being used in the promos of the film and Bhansali is very irritated. It is a known fact that he does not take kindly to his films being ridiculed. Earlier too he was very upset with Rohit Shetty for making fun of him and his films in the Golmaal series.” 
Ekta Kapoor says, “A spoof is the best form of flattery. We’ve spoofed as many as five films including The Dirty Picture; so Devdas is no exception. And everyone knows that it’s all in light jest. I don’t think Sanjay will be upset.”

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Bela Sehgal will not be editing brother Sanjay Leela Bhansali's next

Bela Sehgal has very much been a part of brother Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s career. After having edited his Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Devdas and Black, we hear that bela will not be working on Bhansali’s upcoming project Ram Leela. 


The reason for it, as Bella tells us, is her next film. She says, “I want to start planning my own film. I will be busy with that.” 

Plus, Bela is also currently working on her recent film that stars Boman Irani and Farah Khan. Though she has bowed out of Bhansali’s next, she can’t help reminiscing about past projects they have worked together on. 

She recalls an incident, “While I was editing Devdas, we had a new editing machine and helper assisting me. When I got stuck at one point, Sanjay and I got into a fight. We even ended up abusing each other. But within no time, we patched up, ” and lovingly adds, “Those were the days…”

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Will Hrithik and SLB team up again?

Sources say that Hrithik Roshan is ready to forget the failure of 'Guzaarish' and work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Guzaarish might have been a much-hyped film before its release, but its extremely dismal performance at the box office was also widely discussed. And after that, not many expected Hrithik Roshan to want to work with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali again.

But looks like Hrithik is willing to let bygones be bygones and sources say the actor could be gearing up to work with Bhansali again.

Our sources tell us, “SLB’s film is a love story based in Europe where the hero is on a bicycle trip through Europe when he falls in love with a girl.

Hrithik has given a verbal ‘yes’ for the film. The project will go on floor only after he finishes his superhero film and Bhansali completes his next with Ranveer Singh and Kareena Kapoor. “

The source adds, “It also seems a right kind of break for Hrithik after two action packed roles in Agneepath and the superhero film.” Sanjay Leela Bhansali chose not to revert to our SMSes.

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Vidhu just showing concern for Sanjay: Bela Sehgal

Director Bela Sehgal is glad her brother Sanjay Leela Bhansali has touched masses with "Rowdy Rathore". She is unfazed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra's comments about the movie, and says his concern is most welcome as he happens to be Bhansali's mentor.

"I feel my brother has brought a change in his life. He is connecting with the masses and why not. Vidhu Vinod Chopra is his mentor. When a mentor shows his concern, he is allowed to do that," Sehgal told.

In a recent interview, Chopra was asked what he had to say of Bhansali producing "Rowdy Rathore", which has minted over Rs.100 crore at the box office.

He said: "I am not happy about it... He's seeking some kind of recognition and acceptance, and if it's coming through this kind of cinema, then it's sad."

Chopra even said rubbish films are making Rs.100 crore.

To this, Sehgal said: "There is nothing wrong if he is happy saying what he is saying and if he is showing concern, it's okay."

"Sanjay has got nothing against him and even I don't want to comment on it because I think everybody has their own thing to say. We don't want to comment on 'Ferrari Ki Sawaari' or Vidhu Vinod Chopra or what he has made."

"He is senior and we have learnt a lot from him and we respect him a lot. He is a wonderful man. We really think highly of them."

Sehgal, who has directed Bhansali's next production "Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi", is glad Bhansali's attempt at a different film like "Rowdy Rathore" has appealed to the masses.

"What my brother has done is wonderful. Even he should earn, even he should reach out to the masses and I think he has connected with the masses. 'Rowdy Rathore' is a very nice film," she said.

"When 'Saawariya' and 'Guzaarish' happened, people said something, when 'Rowdy Rathore' happened, people are saying something. Everybody has the right to say what they want to say. But Sanjay and me we don't want to say anything about anybody," she added.

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'We all want Sanjay to get married'

Editor-turned-director Bela Sehgal, who feels there is no expiry date for marriage and narrates the same story in her first directorial venture, says her family too wishes that filmmaker brother Sanjay Leela Bhansali gets married. 

"Sanjay himself has written the film and I feel it's for himself only. Of course, we all want Sanjay to get married and find the right partner for himself. Eventually, everyone wants a companion in their old age. So why not, to have someone with whom you can share everything," Bela told. 

Bhansali, who is 49 and still single, realises that the story that he has written for his sister's directorial debut - "Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi" - is actually happening in his own house. 

"Sanjay is saying, 'My god, this problem is with my family and my mother.' My mom keeps saying him (Sanjay) please have this, do this and Sanjay is like, yes mamma..Yes mamma.. It is there in each family and in my film also." 


Bela, who has edited her brother's all films except "Saawariya" and "Guzaarish", has made "Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi" with Farah Khan and Boman Irani in the lead and says she loves experimenting and took it as a challenge. 

"I am like this. I like to take challenges and experiment with my characters. It is not done for experimenting. I always had this thing in my mind that people can fall in love at any age. This is a subject which is a discussion in each house -- get married, get married, (umar beeth jayegi)," she said.

"Even my brother is not married. To get married is the perennial thing in every family and this film will give hope to 40-plus people who are not married. It can happen in any age. There is no expiry date for this," she added. 

"Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi'" is slated for a Aug 24 release.

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