Any regrets Sonam?

It wasn't a dream start for Sonam Kapoor in Bollywood, with most of her films only doing average business at the box office. The unfazed actress, however, looks at everything in a positive way and considers it all a part of her growth. 

"There are no regrets, it is all about looking at things positively and regarding everything as a part of your growth. I don't think anyone should have regrets, whether it is your personal decisions or your career choices, as you learn from them," Sonam told in an exclusive interview.

"Being a human is about learning from your life and that's why we have been put in this world...to gain knowledge," she added. 

Daughter of veteran actor Anil Kapoor, Sonam made her Bollywood debut with 2007 film "Saawariya" and has since been part of movies like "Delhi 6", "Aisha", "I Hate Luv Storys", "Thank You", "Mausam" and "Players", though most of them failed to garner their expected success at the box office.

The actress is, however, undeterred and is now eagerly looking forward to her two new films, "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" and "Raanjhnaa". Both the films release next year.

"I think it is better than getting no reactions. Next year is a good year; so I am looking forward to 'Raanjhnaa' and 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag'," she said. 

Though the 25-year-old got a chance to play diverse roles in a career span of five years, Sonam feels none of them was even close to her real life personality.

"I am too complicated a character to be incorporated in a film. I don't think anyone would be able to write such a complicated character like me," she said.
"Unfortunately I have been stereotyped as a de-glam actress. All my friends are in fashion; so they ask 'When are you doing a glamorous film? When can we give you glamorous clothes?' So I guess, other than 'Aisha' and 'Players', my movies didn't have much of fashion involved," added the actress, who is otherwise known as the fashion icon of Bollywood. 

"I played very simple girls. It is completely the opposite of my image and what people perceive me to be." 

She will once again be seen playing a simple Indian girl in "Raanjhnaa" too. 

"In 'Raanjhnaa', I play a Banarsi girl, who joins JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University). I think it is important to have an Indian touch, as we have been doing a lot of films influenced by the west. I like the language, story and everything of the film. I had the best time working on this film," she said. 

Sonam is also keen on getting an opportunity to work with the three Khans of Bollywood - Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan.

"I would love to work with all three...maybe at the same time. Whatever comes my way is good. I would like Aamir to direct me. One of my favourite films is 'Taare Zameen Par'," she said. 

"For me, I love him as a director. I think he has a keen eye when it comes to performances; so I would like him to give me that knowledge," she added.

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Sonam Kapoor to be Santa Claus

Sonam Kapoor is known for her eclectic collection of clothes. And this Christmas the actress will do her bit for underprivileged children by donating her clothes for charity

Miss Kapoor will partner with Delhi-based fashionista Pernia Qureshi for an online auction.

The proceeds from the sale will go to The Smile Foundation to help underprivileged children and youth across 25 states in India. So from a collection of indigenous and international brands, some of Sonam's most exquisite ensembles that she has flaunted on the red carpet or on events will be up for grabs.

Talking about this collaboration, Pernia says, We are delighted to partner with Sonam for a great cause and a charity that is striving to make a difference in India. Sonam's spokesperson confirms the news.

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Sonam Kapoor's clothes on auction for charity

Actress Sonam Kapoor, known for her stylish and uber cool dressing, announced Saturday that she will auction some of her clothes online for charity this Christmas.

She will auction her clothes on her friend, stylist Pernia Qureshi's online fashion boutique, Pernia's Pop-Up Shop. The proceeds will go towards Smile Foundation, an NGO which works to support poor children.

"Pernia and I wanted to do something for children this season. So we thought it would be great if I give like 50 pieces from my wardrobe and the proceeds go to Smile Foundation, " Sonam told.

The actress wants this money to be used to provide education to children.

"Pernia wanted to associate this with charity and I wanted to do something for education. This will go towards Smile Foundation to educate kids, " she said.

Sonam has been involved in charitable acts earlier as well. But this is the first time she has announced to give away some of her clothes.

"Pernia and me really believe in this. It is a great idea for people to go and check it out. We are waiting for the traffic for all the social networking sites to come there, " she said.

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Masaba thanks Sonam for endless support

Young and talented designer Masaba Gupta, who has been signed up as fashion director for Satya Paul, has thanked Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor for popularising her work.

"At this new beginning, always thanking my lucky mascot Sonam Kapoor first - for her endless support. My sari wouldn't be what it is without her," tweeted Masaba.

All of 24, Masaba, daughter of actress Neena Gupta, is known for her modern, colourful and quirky designs.

"I am 24 and the possibilities are endless. Hoping for your continued support," she added.

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When Dalai Lama blessed Sonam and Anil Kapoor

Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor says he was once blessed by the Dalai Lama -- during a chance meeting on an airplane.

Anil spoke of his meeting with the Tibetan spiritual leader on the sidelines of an event on the occasion of World Compassion Day.

"I met him many years ago on a flight. I was going through one of my scripts and I was preparing for my role and the role required me to be kind, tolerant of religions and above all compassionate.

"I was reading my script and preparing, I just looked up and I saw a few monks sitting in front of. In the midst of them, I saw the Dalai Lama, " the 52-year-old actor said here.

"I thought I should not miss the opportunity. So I went up to him, knelt down and said 'Sir, please give me your blessings and please sign the script'. And of course, he readily obliged."

At the event, the Dalai Lama spoke on the importance of non-violence and vegetarianism.

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Sonam Kapoor in Daddy's 24

Actor Anil Kapoor, who is set to bring the Indian adaption of award-winning American TV series "24" to the small screen, says he is willing to cast daughter Sonam Kapoor if there is a role for her.

"If there is a character which suits Sonam or Sonam thinks will suit her, then why not? We will definitely pitch, these days we have to talk to Sonam's managers," the 52-year-old said here Tuesday at the launch of "24."

"24" is an American television series that started in 2001 and ran till 2010, with a total of 192 episodes.

Anil featured in the eighth season of the show as Omar Hassan, president of the fictional Islamic Republic of Kamistan.

Meanwhile, when asked about his personal favourite television show, he said, "I liked 'Buniyaad', which was directed by Ramesh Sippy ji. I loved that."

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Sonam is still in film industry because of critics

Sonam Kapoor admits that her films have not "done well" but critics always supported her work and that is why she is still part of the Hindi film industry.

The 27-year-old started her career with 2007 film "Saawariya" and went on to do movies like "Aisha","Mausam" and "Players", which failed to set the cash registers ringing at the box office. However, the actress feels her work was always appreciated by critics.

"Honestly, my films have not done very well but I am in the industry because of the critics. They have always liked me...," Sonam said at the launch of film critic Anna MM Vetticad's book - "The Adventures Of An Intrepid Film Critic".

Published by Om Books International in association with Scooter, the book talks about the author's account of films that she watched in 2011.

Sonam feels filmmakers need critics and vice-versa.

"I honestly feel that we need each other. We need somebody there. You need a referee at the end of the day. We need somebody's perspective who has an intelligent view about things. You need critics because you need a review of what has been done and how do you better your product," Sonam said.

The actress is currently busy shooting for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" and Anand L. Rai's "Raanjhana".

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Daddy wants to make Sonam Khoobsurat

A birdie chirps to say that Anil Kapoor is planning to remake the yesteryear flick 'Khoobsurat' 
The film starred Rekha in a pivotal role. Buzz is that he is keen to cast beti Sonam in Rekha's role. Hmmm... 

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Professional Sonam denies to take a break

Professionalism is on a high among B-Town folks nowadays! And Sonam Kapoor definitely seems one of them

The actress is scheduled to join the team of Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's upcoming biopic in Haryana after completing her shoot in Benaras for Anand L. Rai's forthcoming love story.

Interestingly, the holy city of UP at present is extremely hot and Sonam had been shooting in the scorching heat opposite Kolaveri Di South Indian singer-actor Dhanush. She apparently had a pretty good time despite the unfavourable weather.

`The 45-day filming was very tight and rigorous. Though the shoot was a little hectic than usual, she managed to enjoy her free time by exploring the art and culture of Benaras,' says a well-placed source.

However, Sonam is gung-ho about the shooting of her next in the chilly regions of Haryana and won't be taking a break between these two projects.

`Sonam could have flown back to Mumbai to take some time but she decided not to as she's raring to fly to Haryana for this film based on the life of Milkha Singh,` the source adds.

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Sonam keen to help Banaras weavers, working on details

Known for her impeccable fashion sense, Sonam Kapoor is on a new mission - the young actress wants to help Banarasi sari weavers by making sure that they get their due.

She was in the Hindus' holy city for a 45-day shooting schedule for her upcoming film "Raanjhnaa", which is being directed by Anand L. Rai and marks Bollywood debut of southern star Dhanush. During her stay in the city, she came across hand woven saris, but was disappointed to see the condition of the weavers, said a source.

Now, after returning to Mumbai, she plans to ask her designer friends to use as much Banarasi weaves as they can, added the source.

Sonam apparently wants her friends to amalgamate Banarasi weavers' designs with their creations and lure the youths towards centuries-old rich heritage.

The 27-year-old is all set to meet suppliers and designers to discuss steps that can be taken to spread awareness about the Banarasi weaves.

The actress herself has been seen in beautiful saris in the past.

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Banaras Ganga aarti charms Sonam

Actress Sonam Kapoor, who is shooting for her upcoming film "Raanjhnaa" in Banaras, was mesmerised by the famous "Ganga aarti".

The 27-year-old was suggested by many to watch the evening ritual and hence the actress hired a boat to see the "aarti" from a distance.

"Sonam had a lovely ride on the boat and to see thousands of people doing the 'aarti' was something she had never experienced before," a source said.

The actress is enjoying the beauty of one of the oldest cities in the country.

"Raanjhnaa" marks the debut of southern star Dhanush in Hindi films and is directed by Anand L. Rai.

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Sonam, Stuck at 17

Sonam Kapoor who has turned 17 in Varanasi for her character in Raanjhanaa is trapped in a strange dilemma. Her character can't get older until a ghost voice is found for her. 

The director Aanand Rai is looking for a singer who can express the 17-year old Sonam's emotions as she falls in love for the first time. 

Says a source close to the director, Aanand has got a beautiful song written by Irshad Kamil about girl expressing her first love. A R Rahman has come up with a flawless melody. Now the hunt is on for a ghost voice for Sonam to express the tremulous exuberance of a girl in love for the first time.

The problem is, the director has put forward an incredibly daunting reference point. 

Says our source, Aanand wants a voice like Lataji in Raj Kapoor Saab's Bobby. In that film when Lataji sang Aksar koi ladki iss haal mein/kisi ladke se solve saal mein/Jo kehti hai wohmujhe kehna hai... she sounded like a 16-year girl experiencing the ecstacy of love. And mind you, Lataji was 40 when she sang for Bobby. Aanand wants the same feelings to emerge when Sonam sings of her first love. 

While the perfect voice is awaited, Aanand will wait. 
Says our source from Varanasi, The portions where Sonam and Dhanush play 17 are nearing completion. Now the two actors are expected to take a 5-year steep leap to play 23. But Aanand has put the transition on hold until he finds the voice for Sonam's 17-year old Sonam's love song. Until then she stands frozen in time. 

Adding to the voice crisis is the fact that composer Rahman never favours the director's suggestions on the choice of playback singers. 

Aanand sounded blissfully unconcerned in Varanasi. I am in no hurry. I am shooting here at my own pace, My actors Dhanush and Sonam are with me. And we're having fun. The voice that Rahman Saab and I are looking for may take time. That's okay. 

We don't need to rush. There is no one to express what Lata Mangeshkar did in Bobby. But I can proudly tell you my song about first love has been as beautifully written and composed as Mujhe kuch kehna hai in Bobby. Raj Kapoor Saab would have been proud of us.

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Sonam and Dhanush incognito in Varanasi

Playing 17 has it advantages. During the shooting of Aanand Rai's Ranjhaanaa which began in Vananasi this week, the notorious crowds of the Holy city known to descend on shooting units like a cyclone, kept away from Sonam and Dhanush simply because they couldn't be recognized in their school-going clothes.

Speaking from Varanasi director Aanand Rai said, The first few days of shooting have been a blessing. Sonam and Dhanush are so much in character even I have a hard time recognizing them in a crowd. I feel the wait to see them get into the skins of their character has been worth it.

We hear Dhanush and Sonam don't only dress and behave like school kids, they've even been reading books suitable for 17-year olds.

Because of their get-up the two are able to roam freely on the roads and in the bylanes of Varanasi enjoying local food and sightseeing places. We hear Sonam has freaked out on the local Varanasi paan.

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Quirky Sonam's Chaplin act

Actress who is known for her quirky style sense and her straight talk does an exclusive photoshoot as a mime artiste

Sonam Kapoor is known for her quirky style sense and her straight talk in the industry. Recently, the actress decided to combine the two for an exclusive photoshoot done by fashion photographer Rohan Shreshtha, where she posed as a mime artiste.

Rohan says,  I knew Sonam only socially and I had this concept in mind for the last two years. Though we have worked on other projects earlier, I never got the chance to explain my concept to Sonam. Finally, when I told it to her, she loved it!

In fact, it was during the shoot that the photographer came to know that Sonam had in fact trained in mime acting while she was abroad. Rohan adds, She nailed every shot like a pro.

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Sonam busy with Raanjhnaa

Actress Sonam Kapoor, who was last seen in "Players" in January this year, reveals she has been busy shooting for her next "Raanjhnaa".

"I am leaving in the next 3 days for 'Raanjhnaa'. I am shooting for 'Raanjhnaa' right now, I was shooting in Bombay and now in Banaras, " the 27-year-old said here Tuesday while inaugurating the smart series range of Electrolux.

Being directed by Anand L. Rai, "Raanjhnaa" stars southern star Dhanush opposite Sonam.

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I have time left to be sexy

Sonam Kapoor is hands down one of the most stylish actors in Bollywood. Sreya Basu catches up with the actor in Mumbai on style and her new film Raanjhnaa 

You have recently been voted as India's Most Stylish female by a leading magazine. How does it feel?
It's fun, it's a great tag to have. I enjoy myself, I enjoy wearing weird clothes and I am glad that people think it's stylish. 

What is more impactful - being stylish or being sexy?
So far, I have only been called stylish and hence can't answer your question. All I can say is that I have much time in hand to become sexy. I am yet to become one. It's not advisable to disclose all your qualities at the same time. I prefer to keep things under wraps and disclose one thing at a time. 

Who do you consider as the most stylish actress of all times?
I think the actress who paid most attention to what she was wearing was Meena Kumari. If you read about her, you will know, she was always clear about what exactly she wanted to wear, how she wanted to wear it. But besides her, the person who changed fashion in Bollywood quite a bit is Sharmila Tagore. She wore a bikini at one point for God's sake and till now she is seen. 
You used to be overweight before joining Bollywood.
Yes, I used to be fat and my dad (actor Anil Kapoor) used to urge me to loose weight. Also, when you are overweight, your health is not always the best. But I lost weight as I wanted to be a heroine and Sanjay (Leela Bhansali) has signed me (for Saawariya). And I felt really better about myself.

Is it always branded clothes and accessories that you wear?
It's not about brands but mix and match of vintage and even street clothes that I wear. I just enjoy myself, which is most important.

Apart from fashion, what draws your attention?
I love paintings and I collect art. 

You said you are walking extra miles for upcoming film Raanjhnaa opposite Dhanush. 
Yes, I am pushing myself for the film. I was in Delhi for 10 days working on screenplays. But it's a romantic commercial film at the end of the day and hopefully it will be different from all the films I have done so far. I work hard in every film. 

Tell us more about the film. 
Well, it has just started. So I can't tell you much about it. All I can say is, I have put in a lot of hard work and it is great working with Dhanush and Abhay (Deol). 

Dhanush is taking Hindi lessons for the film. Are you helping him out?
No, he is very good at whatever he does. 
There is news that you and Dhanush will be reviving the Raj Kapoor-Nargis romance in Raanjhnaa. What is your favourite Raj Kapoor-Nargis song?
Pyar Hua Ikraar Hua (from Shree 420) is an all-time favourite number. 

Your are also doing Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's Bhaag Milkha Bhaag that stars Farhan Akhtar in the lead. How is it working with Rakesysh for the second time after Delhi 6?
He gave me Delhi 6 and made me a household name and as I have always said, I am ready to do even a blink-and-miss role for him.

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B-Town's newest friends: Sonam and Jacqueline

Divas are so close that Sonam recently sent Jacqueline cupcakes on her birthday 

Sonam Kapoor and Jacqueline Fernandez have become true chums.

Their friendship traces back to the time when the Sri Lankan beauty got along really well with Anil Kapoor during the shoot of their upcoming action thriller. 
And by virtue of that, Sonam and her became friends as well. Turns out Jacqueline also admires Sonam for her sense of fashion. Great going, gals!

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Sonam, Shabana make their way to DCW

Bollywood's leading ladies are adding glamour to the Delhi Couture Week (DCW). After veteran actress Sharmila Tagore walked the ramp, young and stylish Sonam Kapoor along with elegant Shabana Azmi attened the fashion extravaganza to support designers Anamika Khanna and Gaurav Gupta. 

Khanna and Gupta opted for an off-site show, away from the main Taj Palace venue. They showcased their respective collections Thursday at the Evoluzione store in Mehrauli. 

Clad in a sari-gown, Sonam was looking as fashionable as ever, while Shabana opted for a heavily embroidered maroon suit. 

The highlight of both collections was the different interpretation of the sari, which boasted of a modern touch. Sonam liked it and said "it was so incredible".

"They have taken something that was so traditional and so beautiful and presented it in a modern way, which I think was so wonderful. I think they both gave the sari a different outlook altogether. I am incredibly grateful that I could see something like this today," Sonam told after the show. 

Khanna's collection was an ode to the powerful Indian women. She said that her garments are "a modern take on traditional silhouettes".

Khanna impressed the audience by presenting sari-gowns with an asymmetrical hemline sans petticoats or underskirts. The colour palette comprised pink, blue, ivory, beige, red, gold and silver. 

Gupta, on the other hand, chose to present his interpretation of the "global Indian mindset" that according to him, "is the reflection of new confident India". 

Titled The Sylph Aviary, his show stunned many with the design aesthetics that he displayed on the runway. His couture comprised draped gowns, lehenga gowns, his signature sari gowns in reds, pinks, oranges, yellows and nudes. 

Sonam, who was mesmerised after watching the collection, said that designers like them have put India ahead of international fashion shows.
"I think Indian designers actually know the definition of couture because we know the embroidery, cuts and drapes. We have reached a standard, which is better than international standards because I saw some of the international shows and for me, this show is beautiful. It was a beautiful production," added the actress who attended Roberto Cavalli AW 2012 show at Milan Fashion Week. 

The 27-year-old was also invited by Italian shoe designer Salvatore Ferragamo for his show at his headquarter in Florence. 

Not only the collection, but the way these designers presented their outfits was also unique. 

A very selective audience was allowed to enter in the main show area that was transformed into a courtyard. 

From tables to special installation with the 'jaali' artwork, reminiscent of the Mughal symmetry, in the centre, helped in creating the Mughla era. 

There was a surprise performances by foreign artists. 

Also present at the show were designers Rohit Bal, Manav Gangwani, Rohit Gandhi-Rahul Khanna, Abraham-Thakore along with buyer Alka Nishar and model Pia Trivedi.

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Sonam compliments Chitrangada on her sizzling look

Actress recently sent her compliments for Chitrangada on her sizzling look in 'Joker' item song

Bollywood fashionista Sonam Kapoor recently sent her compliments for Chitrangada Singh on her sizzling look in her first ever item number in 'Joker' 

Sonam Kapoor is unarguably the reigning fashion queen in Bollywood. And praise from her about someone's style sense, is indeed big news. Sources say that Sonam recently rang up Chitrangada Singh to compliment her on her look in Shirish Kunder's next. 
Our source says, Sonam called Farah Khan to say how she loved Chitrangada's look in an item number for Shirish's film. For her first ever item number, designer Rick Roy has given the actress a smoking hot look.

The source adds, Sonam felt that Chitrangada really carried off the saree look very well, while performing complex moves draped in the six yards. That could have been very tricky.

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Sonam, Preity fighting to be Varanasi Ki Bahenji

Preity Zinta who has lately been brushing up her French etiquettes now goes straight into the role of a firebrand Varanasi-based wife in Neeraj Pathak’s Bhaiyyaji Superhit. 

Preity has been cast as a gangster’s daughter and Sunny Deol’s loud and aggressive wife, and she’d have to practise hard for her part. The role apparently requires her to talk fast in the local accent. 

Says director Neeraj Pathak, “Preity plays a Varanasi ki ladki with a local accent. She is super-excited about the role. ” 

We’re just super-excited that Sunny has finally found a leading lady befitting his stature. Sunny Paaji and Preity Mademoiselle go back a long way, to Anil Sharma’s The Hero where she had played a Kashmiri girl. 

Incidentally, if not interestingly, Sonam Kapoor is also playing a girl from Varanasi in Aanand Rai’s Raanjhanaa. 
With both Preity and Sonam Kapoor working hard on getting the Varanasi accent and body language right, the chic duo seem locked in quite a combat to get into the heart of a UP girl.

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