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Remembering Dev Anand.

2011-12-05T04:09:00.000-08:00

I first met Dev Sahab in 2001, which was also the last time, for the music launch of his film Censor, in Ashoka Hotel, Delhi.
At 1pm I got a call from Pooja Kashyap of HMV, who needed last minute help to organize the media for the music launch. I told her ‘I’d love to help you as I am a great fan of Dev Anand, and this is the best chance to meet and interact with him’. Though the time given was very short to invite the media, but I took this challenge and my entire team for this music launch, without giving it a second thought.
Press conference was around 4 or 5 pm and the chief guest was the then IB minister Sushma Swaraj. More than 100 media was present at that time for which I wouldn’t take the credit as this is Dev Anand’s charisma that all the media were there.
Press conference got over in an hour but the media was eager to talk with him one to one. Anyhow I managed a few interviews and by 7 he told me ‘Harish this would be the last one, and if there’s anything left then I’d like to do it in my suite around 8 pm’. And around 8 he was in the lounge of the hotel as fresh as ever, ready for another set of interviews with Aaj tak and NDTV. After these couple of interviews I got a chance to interact with him personally and his first sentence was “Good job Harish, but I have never done so many interviews at one time”. During that interaction I learnt that whatever you’d ask him, he’d reply, and if you don’t start anything he would keep mum. I asked him, about his great health and fitness at this age, for which he said, I try to avoid grains most of the time, I survive on water and fruits whenever I’m hungry.
And then I asked him how he finds Delhi. He said ‘Delhi is very hot!...because of central politics, and at the same time very pleasant’. Talking about his favorite pass time he told me ‘though I am never free, I spend my time in writing and reading, besides making films’.
I told him that it’s my dream to become a director to which he said, ‘If you dream about it then it will be fulfilled, because this is dreaming with open eyes and not with closed ones.’ During that time I got a call from Kaveri Bamzai from IndiaToday saying that she wanted good enough time for an interview with Dev Anand Sahab. I asked him about it, he asked me to call her the next morning around 8:30-9.
The next day by 8:30 sharp he was in the lounge and within half an hour that interview got done and when I asked him to take a leave he remembered about my direction and said ‘Harish when you become a Director, give me a call’. After that I never got a chance to meet him and now as I just completed my first film as a director, his lines still ring in my mind, and I thought I’d call him when my film would release. The film is now in the process of being released but before that, sadly enough, he suddenly left us one day. And my dream to tell him about my directorial venture remains a dream. I miss you Dev Sahab. May you Rest in Peace.
-Harish Sharma.

2 Nights in Soul Valley makes it to NFDC Film Bazaar Market

2011-11-29T00:09:00.000-08:00

2 Nights in Soul Valley makes it to NFDC Film Bazaar Market

Aparna Sen makes a comeback with “The Japanese Wife - A Love poem”

2010-02-23T23:53:00.001-08:00

Aparna Sen makes a comeback with “The Japanese Wife - A Love poem”

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Sufiana Kailash Kher celebrates 1st Marriage Anniversary

2010-02-18T05:39:00.000-08:00

Recently in a plush hotel of Mumbai, Kailash Kher celebrated his 1^st Marriage Anniversary with wife Sheetal Kher and baby Kabir Kher. The glittery party was witnessed by a no. of celebrities of the Music Industry.

Set by the beach, the night was made more special as a troupe of traditional Rajasthani folk singers and dancers gave a mesmerizing stage performance which is hardly seen in any bollywood parties. Holding his new born baby Kabir Kher, an ecstatic Kailash Kher said, “Whatever I’ve achieved so far is because of my family and Sheetal. They are my strength and weakness and I’m nothing without them.” Dressed in a beautiful green Sari, Sheetal Kher made a late entry and joined her husband. The happy family was mobbed by the media and baby Kher was more than happy to give a perfect pose.

The party started with a warm welcome of guests by traditional Rajasthani folk singers performing at the entrance with drums and flute. The attendees of the party were Anupum Kher who came to wish the family a happy prosperous life and went away in no time. The long list of guests includes gorgeous Poonam Dhillon, Quiz Master Siddhartha Basu along with wife Anita Kaul Basu, Anu Malik, Prasoon Joshi, Raju Srivastava, Shaan with wife Radhika, Vasundhara Das, duo composers Salim – Suleman Merchant with wives, member of Kailash Kher’s band Paresh and Naresh, Prakash Jha, Bhajan Samraat Anup Jalota with wife Medha, Jagmohan Mundhra, Singer Richa Sharma, Shilpa Rao, Madhoo, Shweta Pandit, Tanvi Azmi with husband Baba Azmi, Sapna Bhavnani, Sameer Tandon, VJ Bani, Rukhsaar, Sona Mohapatra, Sonal Sehgal, Manmohan Shetty and Hans Raj Hans.

The party went on till wee hours and ended with the infectious sound of Kailash Kher who sang the popular song “Kaise Bataoon” from film “Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani” followed by a scrumptious dinner for the guests.

- H.S Communication Pvt. Ltd.

The credit of a good suspense film always goes to the director” – Sameer Kochhar

2010-02-18T05:12:00.001-08:00

TV anchor turned actor Sameer Kochhar who made his bollywood debut in film Zeher is now again coming back on the screen in the forthcoming film “Hide & Seek”. Moser Baer Entertainment and Idiot Box’s film “Hide & Seek” is a directorial debut of Shawn Arranha and produced cojointly by Apoorva Lakhia and Laxmi Singh. The film stars Sameer Kochhar, Purab Kohli, Arjan Bajwa, Ayaz Khan, Mrinalini Sharma and former Miss Earth Amruta Patki. We had a brief chat with Sameer, here are some excerpts –

Tell us something about “Hide & Seek”. What’s your character like in the film?

I’m playing the role of “Abhimanyu” in the film who’s the son of a famous industrialist and brother of Om (Purab Kohli). Abhimanyu is a neglected older son, always jealous of Om as he’s the apple of his parents’ eye. Basically the films is based on 6 childhood friends who start playing the game of hide & seek on a cold x’mas night but as they grow up, they find themselves playing the same game in a fatal way which changes their lives forever.

How does it change their lives forever?

Haha you want me to tell you the climax of my film? Seriously watch it! It’s a mindboggling film.

All your co-stars in the film are more or less of the same age including director Shawn Arranha. How was it working with Shawn?

I think Shawn is fantastic with his directorial skills. After a long time, audience would be able to see a good suspense flick and obviously the credit of a good suspense film always goes to the director.

From a TV anchor to actor, which one do you enjoy the most; small screen or big screen?

Well both TV and Films have a different charm and you cannot compare the two! I was 17 when I started off my career in Jain TV but people started recognizing me only when I hosted a sex talk show along with Kamal Siddhu on Zoom TV.

Did you also host the IPL matches?

Yes that’s true! I’ve hosted both the seasons of IPL matches and I thoroughly enjoyed as I’m a huge cricket buff! My first cricket show was for kids on Hungama TV called “Indoor Cricket Tournament”.

Tell us about your upcoming films?

My upcoming films are Chase, Chargesheet and Gandhi Se Pehle Gandhi.

- H.S Communication Pvt. Ltd

Moser Baer’s thriller film “Hide and Seek” set to release on 19th Feb

2010-02-18T05:04:00.000-08:00

Moser Baer Entertainment Ltd. and Idiot Box presents forthcoming film Hide and Seek starring actors Purab Kohli, Mrinalini Sharma, Samir Kochhar, Ayaz Khan, Arjan Bajwa and Amruta Patki. The film “Hide and Seek” is a suspense film produced by Apoorva Lakhia and Laxmi Singh and directed by Shawn Arranha and is set to release on 19^th Feb 2010. The music of the film is given by Gourav Dasgupta and Chirantan Bhatt together.

“Hide and Seek” is a suspense flick and is based on the story of 6 friends who start playing a game of Hide and Seek on a cold Christmas night. But little do they expect that night and that game would change Om, Abhi, Jaideep, Imran, Gunita and Jyotika’s lives forever.

Twelve years later, while some still wrestled with memories of that fateful night and others left it buried deep within them, it was a past that came back to haunt them again.

This time it all starts with a mysterious message – a catchphrase from their past – which results in Om, just out of asylum, getting a surprise visit from childhood sweetheart Jyotika!

While the same message distracts Abhi, Om’s estranged brother and business tycoon, in a corporate boardroom, it disturbs Gunita, the damsel in financial distress, sends chills down the spine of Imran, the fat kid grown up into a muscular movie star, and intrigues Jaideep, the bully who’s graduated into a political hooligan. Twelve years later, someone was bringing them all together to play that game all over again but this time it will cost them their lives!

Haunted by the past, trapped in a shopping mall - Six best friends turn into worst enemies as they play HIDE & SEEK!

The film “Hide and Seek” is a debut film of director Shawn Arranha who started out his career with first box office film “Saathiya” as an Assistant Director.

- H. S. Communication Pvt. Ltd

I love suspense flicks and I’m glad to be a part of one – Amruta Patki

2010-02-18T04:43:00.000-08:00

Former Miss India Earth 2006 Amruta Patki has finally entered Bollywood and will be shortly seen in Moser Baer Entertainment and Idiot Box’s forthcoming film “Hide & Seek”. The film is releasing on 12^th March and is a maiden venture of Apoorva Lakhia and co – produced by Lakshmi Singh. A directorial debut of Shawn Arranha, the film has a huge star-cast including Amruta Patki, Purab Kohli, Arjan Bajwa, Ayaz Khan, Mrinalini Sharma and Sameer Kochhar.

Amruta Patki who took the modeling world in a storm and appeared almost everywhere, be it on the ramp or in the advertising campaigns of big names will be now seen playing the role of filthy rich girl “Gunita Sodhi” in “Hide & Seek”. We met up with our Marathi mulgi to share her experience of her debut film. Here are some excerpts’ -

How did you bag this role?

Apoorva Lakhia was auditioning a dozen new girls for this film and I got lucky.

So what’s the character of “Gunita Sodhi” in Hide & Seek?

I’m playing the character of Gunita who belongs to a filthy rich family which eventually makes her a snob (Laughs). Nothing else matters to this girl until, of course she falls in love with Om Jaiswal (Purab Kohli). This makes an interesting love triangle with me, Purab Kohli and Mrinalini Sharma who is playing Jyotika and Om’s love interest. So along with this love triangle, “Hide & Seek” is a suspense flick which is based on 6 best friends whose terrible past catches up with them due to a fun game they played as kids called “hide & seek” on a x’mas night.

We heard that you fainted during the shoot of “Hide & Seek”. How did that happen?

Well I’ll tell you something, acting in a film is not a cakewalk! We were shooting in Ahmedabad for “Hide & Seek” and the temperature touched a 50 degree Celsius so the heat caught on to me and I fainted.

So how was the experience to work in a film for the first time?

As I said it was not a cake walk but it wasn’t that bad either because in every field, one has to struggle in some way or the other. Anyway I love watching suspense films and I’m more than glad to be a part of one.

What kind of films do you want to do in future?

As a debutant, I’ve no limitations on what genres of films I would like to do as this is a learning phase. I want to grow as an actress instead of being a celebrity and do all kinds of films like comedy, romance, serious etc.

Tell us about your experience with the cast and crew of “Hide & Seek?”

I got a lot of support from both Apoorva Lakhia and Shawn and the rest 6 of us had a lot of fun during our shoots. It will be a memorable experience forever.

What do you do in your free time?

I like listening to good music and reading books.

- H.S Communication Pvt. Ltd.

Piano Maestro Brian Silas’s launches 27th album on his Birthday

2010-02-18T04:24:00.000-08:00

It was a special birthday for Piano maestro Brian Silas as he launched his 27^th album “Tumsa Nahin Dekha” released under the Saregama label recently in New Delhi. Renowned Piano king Brian Silas’s 10 years tryst with the piano has got him fame and accolades from audiences in India and all over the world.

The memorable evening started with Brian Silas’s rhapsodic instrumental performance where he played a few tracks from his new album. The music was so breath taking that the audience didn’t want him to stop and Brian continued playing some old songs by Kishore Kumar, Md. Rafi creating nostalgia for the audience and the media. Brian Silas’s new album “Tumsa Nahi Dekha” is a collection of 15 instrumental songs coaxing a magical melody that mesmerizes and creates an ambience that enthralls.

After a soothing live performance, Brian launched his new album along with his mother and wife Ravindra Kaur. Followed by the launch, a special cake cutting ceremony was arranged by Brian’s better half and his mother who showered him with blessings.

Brian Silas’s romance with the piano began at quite an early age, it was his deep desire to master the instrument and he succeeded in doing so. Brian's early years were spent in Kanpur in a family steeped in music and tradition. Despite his parent's insistence, he didn’t take any formal training in music and plays the piano from sheer instinct. He evokes the nostalgia of great music directors like Khayyam, Salil Choudhary, O.P. Nayyar, S.D. Burman, Laxmi Kant Pyare Lal, Ravi and the inimitable Madan Mohan, leaving his audience spell bound.

- H. S. Communication (P) Ltd.

New Hero in the Block Birthday Boy Harsh Nagar signed up by SRK’s Red Chillies Entertainment

2010-02-01T07:10:00.000-08:00

A new kid on the block, Harsh Nagar who is signed up by Shahrukh Khan's production house 'Red Chillies Entertainment' celebrated his birthday recently with reality show 'Bigg Boss's contestant Claudia.

The party was held at a posh five star hotel, where bigwigs from the industry came to give their blessing to the birthday boy. Harsh cut the cake along with film star Jitendra and his father B.S Nagar.

Mulak Nagar (Industrialist and Politician) and his brother Lakhiram Nagar (Irrigation Minister of U.P Govt.) said, ''We have a wish to make a film with Tusshar and Harsh together.''

During the cake-cutting ceremony, it was also announced that Harsh is doing a film by Shahrukh Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment titled 'Always Kabhi Kabhi', which is directed by Roshan Abbas.

Harsh Nagar says, "I am very happy that I have got the chance to work for a Big banner like Red Chillies and director Roshan Abbas in my very first film."

Other guest in the peppy party were Charanjeet Singh Sapra (President of Mumbai Pradesh Youth Congress), Big Boss Fame Pravesh Rana, Claudia, Vishwajeet Pradhan, South Indian film actress Aasheeka, Meenakshi and entrepreneur- Ajai Gupta, Mahender Jain.

Party continued till late night and people enjoyed the food and drinks.

- H. S. Communication Pvt. Ltd

Double celebration at “The Hangman” Premiere

2010-01-29T06:19:00.000-08:00

After a long hiatus, NRI producer Bipin Patel’s film “The Hangman” was finally premiered in Cinemax, Andheri. Akshar Media Production’s forthcoming film “The Hangman” is directed by debutant Vishal Bhandari starring Om Puri, Shreyas Talpade, Gulshan Grover, Smita Jayakar, Tom Alter etc. The music of the film is composed by trio Siddharth, Suhas and Chandresh.

The premiere of the film was a special one for Shreyas Talpade as “The Hangman” is Shreyas’s debut film that too in English language and it was his birthday too. The release of the film got stuck and hence, Shreyas made his debut in “Iqbal”. Dressed in casuals, Shreyas Talpade came for the premiere with his wife Deepti who was looking gorgeous in a purple dress.

The star-studded premiere was also attended by the “unlikely hero” Om Puri who came along with his wife Nandita Puri. The veteran actor was sporting an interesting T-shirt probably hinting at the current Marathi-North Indian issues in Mumbai. Bollywood’s “bad man” Gulshan Grover who is playing the “good man” in “The Hangman” was mobbed by the media for the role he is playing in the upcoming film.

Tom Alter came along with his daughter while producer Bipin Patel was spotted with his family and with more than 20 friends who especially come from USA. Smita Jayakar who is playing Shreyas’s mother (Parvati) in the film made a late entry. Seems like her on-going soap “Main Ghar Ghar Kheli” is keeping her too busy. Amrita Bedi who is making her debut in the film was also seen in the premiere dressed up simply.

A story of 1970, “The Hangman” is an unusual drama film set which deals with the emotional impact of a hangman's profession on the protagonist, his wife and his son.

- H.S Communication Pvt. Ltd

Birthday boy Shreyas Talpade

2010-01-29T06:15:00.000-08:00

The charming actor, Shreyas Talpade recently celebrated his birthday at Kino Cottage with the glitterati of bollywood. The actor was hounded by media as the celebration was not just his b’day but a pre-release party of his first debut film “The Hangman”. The party was thrown in by his better half Deepti Talpade along with producer of “The Hangman” Bipin Patel.

The birthday party was attended by beau monde of tinsel town like Amrita Rao who was dressed up in her little black dress. Mughda Godse looking like a diva as always and Celina Jaitely was sporting a punk look in her ed hardy tee teamed with boots.

The other attendees of the party were Suniel Shetty, Tusshar Kapoor, Sohail Khan, David Dhawan, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Javed Jaffrey, Rohit Shetty, Vatsal Sheth, Vikram Chopra and Piyu Sheth. Farah Khan made a late entry along with beau Shirish Kunder looking all pale and drowsy. The party went on till wee hours with the guests dancing the night away.

- H.S Communication Pvt. Ltd

“Simple story with a universal theme that’s “The Hangman”- Bipin Patel

2010-01-24T23:08:00.000-08:00

New Jersey based Bipin Patel is making his Bollywood debut as a Producer in forthcoming film “The Hangman” which is releasing on 29^th Jan. A textile engineer by qualification, Bipin Patel is the President and CEO of Speedy Mart Food Stores; NJ-based chain of convenience stores and gas stations in the tri-state area. He is also the Chairman of Indus American Bank and has established his own production company named “Akshar Media Production”.

We had a brief chat with Bipin on his new venture i.e. a Bollywood film –

P· President, Ceo and Chairman; how did you land up in Bollywood?

Well, frankly it was a childhood dream to do something in Bollywood. I had no connection in Bollywood before but I was looking out for some projects. I had started my first film with “American Desi” director but something went kaput then I finally came across “The Hangman” and I loved the story.

· Tell us something about “The Hangman”.

The story of “The Hangman” revolves around a guilt ridden executioner who struggles between the mandates of his profession and his desire to create a better life for his son. But a series of ill-fated events results in a startling tragedy. It’s a simple story with a universal theme.

· What made you choose “The Hangman” as your maiden film?

I feel the story of “The Hangman” is bold and rich with Indian culture and at the same time maintains a worldwide appeal. I want to produce movies which are different and “The Hangman” is an amazing dramatic film with such great actors. I’m so fortunate to have internationally acclaimed actor Om Puri in my film.

· These days we see Shreyas Talpade mostly in comic roles which is well-appreciated by the audience. Do you think the audience will like him in a serious role?

Shreyas played an intense role in “Iqbal” too and it was a super hit. Considering that, this movie will work too as Shreyas can mould himself into any character and give the same commendable performance.

· Why did you make the film in English for the Indian audience? Wouldn’t it restrict the audience to watch the film?

Well, this film hasn’t been made only for Indian cinema but for all audiences from all around the world. We do plan to release it in Hindi the following week and a release in USA and Canada in February.

· What is your next venture?

My next film will be a comedy flick on NRI’s and it will be shot in USA.

- H.S Communication

The other side of Om Puri..

2010-01-23T03:46:00.000-08:00

Whether it’s the role of a tough cop or playing a terrorist, versatile Om Puri has got accolades in almost all characters he has played. Om Puri will be now seen playing the role of a hangman in “The Hangman” and a fundamentalist Muslim in “Road to Sangam”. Both the films are set to release on 29^th Jan.

Despite a major back operation during the shooting of “The Hangman”, Om Puri was regular with his shooting schedule and kept up with his dates. Even though it was quite a painful period for him, the promo of “The Hangman” seems promising and brandishes Om Puri’s hard work.

The story of “The Hangman” is based on Shiva the hangman (Om Puri) who’s competent in his profession. Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, his family has been following this trade for generations. Shiva is conflicted, however, by the nature of his job and hopes that his son Ganesh (Shreyas Talpade) will have a better life in a different profession.

- H.S Communication

Shreyas Talpade’s first debut film “The Hangman” is finally set to release

2010-01-23T03:44:00.000-08:00

Akshar Media Productions forthcoming film “The Hangman” stars Om Puri, Shreyas Talpade and Gulshan Grover. “The Hangman” would’ve marked Shreyas’s debut in the film but the release of the film got stuck. Shreyas Talpade then rose to fame with “Iqbal” where he was featured as a debutant; however, “The Hangman” is Shreyas Talpade’s first English film. Like “Iqbal”, Shreyas will be again seen playing an intense role in “The Hangman” which is set to release on 29^th Jan.

“The Hangman” is an unconventional drama film based on the trauma of a man Shiva (Om Puri) who is subjected to social wrath and hatred because of his profession. Most of the people around him detest him as a result of which he is forced to live a lonely life. His only hope is his son Ganesh (Shreyas Talpade) and Shiva sends him away for higher studies. As luck would have it, an accident takes place and plagues Shiva's life again. He prepares for a hanging but this one would prove to be like none of the hundred, which he had performed before.

- H.S Communication

Junior Bachchan and Vivek Oberoi at Music Launch of film “Hide & Seek”

2010-01-22T00:32:00.000-08:00

The title of upcoming film “Hide & Seek” suits aptly as Abhishek Bachchan and Vivek Oberoi played hide and seek at the Music Launch of the film held recently in JW Marriott. Moser Baer Entertainment Ltd. and Idiotbox’s forthcoming film “Hide & Seek” is produced by Apoorva Lakhia and co-produced by Laxmi Singh. The film is a suspense thriller directed by debutant Shawn Arranha.

The glittery launch witnessed big celebs starting from Abhishek Bachchan to Vivek Oberoi who perfectly timed their arrival to avoid bumping into each other. The entire star cast of the film marked their presence with Purab Kohli, Arjan Bajwa, Samir Kochchar, Ayaz Khan wearing their perfect suits. The lead actresses Mrinalini Sharma was dressed in a dazzling white gown and debutant Amruta Patki, former Miss India was wearing a sparkling navy blue gown. The evening started with cocktails as the cast and crew cheered the live performance of Gaurav Dasgupta and Chirantan Bhatt who have composed the music of “Hide & Seek”. They played the title track “Hide & Seek”, “Maula..Kaise Jiyu and “Friday Night”. The music album was launched by Harish Dayani, COO of Moser Baer and G. Dhananjay of Moser Baer along with the cast and crew.

The media present in hordes, mobbed each celebrity including Sunil Shetty, Riteish Deshmukh, producer Vashu Bhagnani, Gulshan Grover, Zayad Khan, Aftab Shivdasani, Kunal Kapoor, Pooja Bedi, Shabbir

Ahluwalia, Dino Morea, Ashima Sawhney, Zoya Akhtar, Neetu Chandra, Ramesh Taurani of tips, Ramesh Jain of Venus films, Karan Oberoi, yoga guru Bikram Choudhary, Shweta Salve, Raj Zutshi, Deepak Tijori, Pravesh Rana of the Bigg Boss fame. The party went on till wee hours and ended with a scrumptious dinner for the guests.

Film “Hide & Seek” is about 6 childhood friends who play a game of hide and seek on a cold Christmas night and as they grow up, they find themselves playing the same game unknowingly in a deadly way.

- H.S Communication

Wherever he goes..He brings silence – “THE HANGMAN”

2010-01-21T01:16:00.000-08:00

Akshar Media Productions forthcoming film “The Hangman” stars perfectionist Om Puri, Gulshan Grover, Shreyas Talpade, Smita Jayakar, Tom Alter and Nazneen Ghani. “The Hangman” is prod uced by Bipin Patel and directed by Vishal Bhandari.

“The Hangman” is an unconventional film on crime and punishment in English language. It’s a story of a man (Shiva) who has executed hundreds of criminals as he was forced into this work due to the family tradition. Shiva (Om Puri) battles the social stigmatism which surrounds his unique profession. “The Hangman” portrays the guilt-ridden executioner who wants his only son to don the uniform of a policeman.

The film is set in the 1970s and deals with the emotional impact of the hangman's profession on the protagonist, his wife and his son." The film features Gulshan Grover as an upright jailor who goes out of his way to help Shiva, and Shreyas Talpade of "Iqbal" fame, in the role of the executioner's son.

Inspired by a true story, “The Hangman” is a debut film of Vishal Bhandari who used to work as a journalist in one of the leading national newspaper. The producer of the film, Bipin Patel of the USA based Akshar Media Productions is a resident of New Jersey. He is the President and CEO of Speedy Mart Food Stores, NJ-based chain of convenience stores and gas stations in the tri-state area in Springfield.

- H.S Communication

Hemant Pandey turns “Ghasita” from popular “Pandey ji”

2010-01-20T02:15:00.000-08:00

One of the most recognized theatrical and television actor, Hemant Pandey rose to fame as “Pandey Ji” in India’s most popular serials “Office Office”. Hemant Pandey got his first break in Delhi by an NGO for women and ever since he has been flooded with offers.

Hemant has been an all rounder in the industry with many theatre, television shows and movies to his credit. A few of his accomplishments are “Bandit Queen” (movie), “Krissh” (movie), “Sankat City” (movie), “Office Office” (TV show), “Mrs. Malinee Iyer” (TV show).

Hemant is now seen in a completely different image in NDTV Imagine's new soap “Neer Bhare Tere Naina – Devi” which commenced on 18^th January. Describing this drastic change, Hemant reveals that getting work in the film industry was easy for him but he started to feel stagnant with his routine. “I feel my role in Devi is quite challenging and I’m actually enjoying working in a serial even though it’s a little tough”, he claims.

Hemant is playing the character of “Ghasita” who’s a common villager and like many in his village; he too is burdened by poverty. Being the sole bread-winner of the family, he does not think twice the moment he gets a chance to become rich even at the cost of his daughter Laxmi being exploited. He fools the villagers by projecting his daughter as a Devi and pockets the money he earns in the name of God. As the wealth starts pouring in, his stature in the village and his lifestyle changes. He starts believing that he is now the most powerful man of the village eventually becoming cunning, shrewd and greedy.

- HH.S Communication

"Hide and Seek is not a usual thriller flick, it will keep you glued!” – Purab Kohli

2010-01-18T22:11:00.000-08:00

One of the most popular VJ’s of India, Purab Kohli started his career as a model and became a popular face of “Channel V”. An aspiring pilot, Purab tried his hand in acting in the hit show “Hip Hip Hurray” which became a popular show amongst teenagers. Followed by “Hip Hip Hurray”, he acted in other serials like “Sangharsh” which was aired on B4U and “Chota Muh Badi Baat”. From Veejaying to acting in serials, Purab felt the need to take his acting skill seriously and his first Bollywood break was in film “Bas Yun Hi”. Soon he was seen in films like “Supari”, “Vaastu Shastra”, “My Brother Nikhil”, “Bas Ek Pal”, “Woh Lamhe”, “Awaarapan”, “Rock On” and “YMI” which gave him the immediate fame.
Purab is back again in the screen glamour for his new film “Hide and Seek” directed by Shawn Arranha. A joint venture film of Moser Baer Entertainment and Idiot Box, “Hide and Seek” is produced Apoorv Lakhia and Laxmi Singh and the film stars Purab Kohli, Arjan Bajwa, Ayaz Khan, Samir Kochchar and former Miss Earth Amruta Patki. We had a brief chat with Purab on his new film, here are some excerpts –

“Hide and Seek” is an interesting title. What kind of film is it?
It’s not just the title; I believe the movie is interesting too. It’s a dark and mysterious flick about 6 childhood friends who play a game of hide and seek on Christmas night and as they grow up, they find themselves playing the same game unknowingly in a deadly way!
Tell us about your role in the film.
I play the character of Om and I’m paired opposite Mrinalini Sharma who plays Jyotika in the film.
“Hide and Seek” has a huge star-cast. Did it have much scope for your character?
Definitely! Each character in the movie is significant and we had enough scope to play our roles as the story itself is of 6 friends.
“Hide and Seek” boasts of a thriller tag. Is this movie any different from what we’ve seen before?
Hide and Seek is not a usual thriller flick, it will keep you glued to your seats. Different techniques have been used in the film which makes the film quite mysterious. It’s Shawn’s debut and hats off to him for being so creative in first film.
You’ve always chosen very unconventional roles in your past films. What genre of films you exactly want to do?
Well, I always wanted to act in an action packed film but never got a chance. I’ve already worked in a serious film like “My Brother Nikhil” and now I’m working on a typical Bolly wood flick full of dance and songs.
You’ve worked with so many directors, whom did you like working with the most?
I’ll be brutally honest here, I really like working with Onir who made the film “My Brother Nikhil” and “Bas Ek Pal”. I think he’s extremely creative and I’m currently working with him in his upcoming film “I’am” which is based on a set of different stories.
Tell us about your upcoming films.
There is “I’am” with Onir as I mentioned before then a movie with the director of “Bheja Fry” and also “Geeta in Paradise”, “Rectangular Love Story” and “42 Kms”.
We’ve heard that you are planning a movie with Yash Raj banner?
Well, we’re discussing on that project. Let’s see!
- H.S Communication

Veer - Music Review

2010-01-16T04:01:00.000-08:00

Music – Eros Music

Price of the CD – Rs.149/-

Eros International presents in association with Vijay Galani Moviez Production film “Veer”. The film is directed by Anil Sharma and the music of the film is composed by duo Sajid – Wajid with beautiful lyrics written by lyricist Gulzar.
The music album of “Veer” consists of 8 mind blowing tracks. The first song of the film “Taali” is a powerful song sung by Sukhwinder Singh, Sonu Nigam, Wajid and Neuman Pinto. “Taali” is an energetic song which makes a good start for the album and has been repeated once more in a solo version sung by Sukhwinder Singh.
The next track “Surili Ankhiyon Wale” is a solo song by Rahet Fateh Ali Khan. It’s a romantic song sung at a low pitch tune which makes it’s extremely melodious. This soothing track is repeated once again in a duet form by Rahet Fateh Ali Khan and Sunidhi Chauhan and the English vocals are by Suzanne D’Mello in both the tracks.
The third song is “Salaam Aaya” which is a moderately paced love song sung by Roop Kumar Rathod, Shreya Goshal and Suzanne D’Mello. This one has a complete Indian appeal to it and is definitely one of the best compositions of “Veer”.
“Meherbaniyan” is the fourth solo song sung by soothing Sonu Nigam. The fifth song “Kanha” (Thumri) is a soft classical song and is amazingly blended with vocals by Rekha Bharadwaj, Shabab Sabri, Toshi and Sharib.
The last track is “Spirit of Veer” which is an instrumental song well composed by Sajid – Wajid.
The songs of “Veer” are a pleasant surprise which is a complete shift from fast paced songs these days. The songs of Veer takes you back to period of 90’s when songs used to be completely romantic and passionate and will be liked by all.
- H.S Communication

‘Kailasa Chaandan Mein’ comprises of romantic, soulful and love songs

2009-07-01T03:08:00.000-07:00

In short-span of time Kailash Kher has reached the heights of glory and success which can be termed impossible for everyone. He has gone through series of hardships and perseverance to achieve whatever he has in his career. He became famous after hit and popular number “Allah Ke Bande”. He has given his voice in 45 Bollywood films. Other than Hindi songs, he has even sung for Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam films.

Kailash Kher can be termed as multi-talented artist. He has even composed music of films like, “Dasvidaniya”, “Chandni Chowk toChina”. These days Kailash Kher is grabbing the attention because of his much-talked about album “Kailasa Chaandan Mein”. Before this album, Sony Music clutched success with two albums of Kailash Kher, “Kailasa” and “Kailasa Jhoomo Re”. Wherever Kailash Kher goes audience still wants him to sing the tuneful songs from these albums. Recently, Kailash Kher was in Capital for the promotion and publicity of his new album “Kailasa Chaandan Mein”. He interacted with media in Hotel Crown Plaza. Following is the discourse which went about:

· What makes “Kailasa Chaandan Mein” different from your previous ones?

-In “Kaliasa Chaandan Mein”, we haven’t used any electronic musical instrument. We exploited all Indian traditional musical instruments like, Morchang, Kartaal, Mandolin, Saaz, Udh,Bagal Baccha, Ravan Htta, Ektara, Chimta. That’s why; I will name this album as Organic one. There is one more thing that makes this album poles apart from others, it is going to be released on International front. First time, an Album of Indian artist will be at the same level of International stars. And I dedicate this album to my father, whose is unfortunately not amongst us.

· “Kailasa Chaandan Mein” comprises of what kind of songs and music?

-The album consists of 8 songs. The theme of this album is love and romance. The music is composed by as usual Paresh and Naresh who are part of my band. Brass band ‘Kawa’ has also played a very vital role in the composition of the songs.

· Which one is your favorite track from this album?

-I love all the tracks. They are my babies, whether it is ‘Chaandan Mein’ or fast number ‘Na Batati Tu’; soulful ‘Teri Yaad Mein’ or ‘Rang Rang Ma’. All are distinctive from each other and are close to my heart. And I assure that this album is going to be well-appreciated by all. There is one track in the album; ‘Piya Ghar Aavenge’ has my own emotions embedded in it because I wrote this song after my father’s sad demise.

· You often use unique words and description in your songs. Is there any specific reason behind it?

-Since my childhood I use to listen to poems, devotional songs of Guru Nanak, Saint Kabir and Saint Raidas. I admire them. I always love to utilize such words in my songs which depict beauty of literature and Indian traditions. These words aren’t strange. It is just that today’s generation is not familiar with these words. And I always believe that songs should inbuilt values and colors of our country.

· “Chaandan Mein” (Aao ji) has exceptional video. Please brief about it.

-The video of the song has been directed at Pushkar, holy place of Rajasthan. Director Rajat Nagapal has stunningly directed the video. These days it’s been played in most of the music channels.

· You frequently pay visit and do several shows nationally and internationally. From the bunch, one moment you need to pick which still strikes you, which will be that one?

-All shows have fresh memories in my mind. But to pick one, I’ll say the one which was in Washington; there I performed for Doctor’s association. I felt that I won’t sing ‘Babam bam Lehari’ as it is dedicated to God Shiva, but I was electrified when they demanded me to sing this song and not once, again and again. And I went on singing this song and people were thriving on the song.

-H.S.Communication

Italian Bank joins hands with SBI

2009-07-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

Banca Popolare di Vicenza (BPVI) has been in alliance and has constant correspondent banking relationships with all major Indian banks dealing in export and import trade. In order to deepen relationship with India, the bank has signed a cooperation agreement i.e. MOU with State Bank of India for closer relationship with each other for development of Indo-Italian trade. BPVI has uprooted its base in Northeast part of Italy famously known for its immense development in food, furniture sectors, gold processing, glass, garments etc. BPVI Group today is a multi-regional bank now operating all over the country through a network of over 680 branches.

On other hand, SBI is one of the largest archive in banking sector with wide-spread network of more than 50,000 branches in India and around 92 offices across the world. Mr.Pradeep Chaudary,DMD of SBI quoted that this MOU perhaps will increase the investment, trade and commercial aspects. And it will also bring about the awareness about the Italy market in India.

This year, SBI expects moderate growth by next year, when Indian companies will increase their capital then it will surely fetch more profit.

On the occasion of signing the cooperation agreement with SBI, Mr. Samuele Sorta, CEO and General Manager, mentioned that BPVI is proud about the fact that it is the first Italian Bank to go ahead with this venture with the largest commercial bank, SBI. The bank expects that this will help in capturing customers and guide them in exploring opportunities in Indian and Italian market. He stated that BPVI’s focus is on small and medium size companies in Italy to grow and expand. It will focus in local banks of India

Mr.Fausto Maritian, BPVI’s Head of International Relations and Correspondent Banking who is accompanying the CEO on this mission that the bank is happy with the progress it has achieved in India in the last three years. The bank’s business has grown manifold in this period. He aspires that after signing the cooperation agreement with SBI, BPVI will be able to assist more than Indian and Italian entrepreneurs interested in tie-ups with Italian companies.

Mr. Pradeep Khanna, Chief Representative of BPVI mentioned that BPVI has assisted many large and small companies in India with trade finance facilities. He mentioned that in the present economic scenario in Europe, a lot of Italian companies are ready to forge ties with Indian companies.

Indeed this venture will increase economic tie-ups between both of the countries and widen the scope.

-H.S.Communication

INDIA HAI MERI JAAN marks Team India’s foray

2009-07-01T02:45:00.000-07:00

INDIA HAI MERI JAAN released by Saregama India Ltd, one of the largest music archive in India along with Young Turks Media released the music of ‘INDIA HAI MERI JAAN’ at Elevate, Centrestage Noida, UP .

The release of the album marks Team India’s foray in ICC T20 Cricket World Cup as the reigning champions. The album enthuses and cheers for national, cultural and sporting sentiments in the country. While doing so, the album has also achieved the distinction of featuring the maximum number of sportspersons and celebrities who bring laurels to the county.

The songs have been written, sung and composed by Padamjeet Sehrawat - a former national level cricketer, now a commentator and, also the first runner up of the talent hunt on ESPN ‘ Harsha Ki Khoj’ featured few years back. The album has 5 original tracks and 3 remix versions – India hai meri jaan, Aaagey badhte chalo, Mantra, Men in Blue, Mahi Ve and remix versions of Ruk jaana nahin, Hum Hindustani and, Tum bhi chalo.

India’s World Cup Winner Cricketer Kapil Dev marked the launch of the album with the other distinguished sportspersons like Maninder Singh, Sanaa Bhambri, Satish Babar, singer Shankar Sahni, among others. The national tennis player Sanaa Bhambri acted the Master of Ceremonies for the occasion. There was also live performance by the singer on some numbers from the album and other songs. Interestingly, as Virender Sehwag is in England as part of the Indian contingent, he tele-launched the album with a message for the album, singer and his fans on the occasion he could not be part of.

-H.S.Communication

Versatile persona of Anuj Saxena

2009-07-01T02:30:00.000-07:00

Anuj Saxena started his acting career with popular and much-liked daily-soaps “Kusum” and “KumKum”. The versatility of his personality is reflected with his acting career and his venture in production. Under his production house ‘Maverick’, there are several films lined-up in the year’2009. Along-side he runs company of pharmaceutical and cosmetics and also has put up restaurant.

Multi-talented Anuj Saxena’s production house Maverick is soon going to come up with independent film project ‘Chase’ directed by Jagmohan Mundhra. Before ‘Chase’ along with Adlabs and Insight production, Maverick is co-presenting “Dulha Mil Gaya starring superstar Shahrukh Khan, Sushmita Sen and Fardeen Khan.

A breezy comedy titled “Aloo Chaat”, starring Aftab Shivdasani and Aamna Shariff was released successfully in March’09 was co-produced by Maverick along with Mirchi Movies.

Anuj Saxena launched Maverick Production House in March 2007. Maverick had even produced first International Gold Awards along with Whiteleaf Entertainment, which was held in Mauritius in September 2007 and was a massive success.

Maverick has produced more than 20 advertising films, the prominent ones being Tiger Balm white, Blistix Lip care balm, A.M. Mouth Wash and Fair One fairness cream, TV soap Kulvaddhu for Sony which was most talked about for its production values, comedy show "Gupshup Coffee Shop" featuring Navniit Nisshan on SAB TV, game show KHILADI NO. 1 on Zee Smile and various documentaries; the most acclaimed one was on child birth. Maverick had forayed into Regional channels, the most popular program being Sa Re Ga Ma Pa on Zee Kananada and is also producing a Kannada film titled "Houseful". Maverick is also in distribution work and carried out distribution for films like ‘Om Shanti Om’, ‘Cash’ and many more. And indeed they are exploring more ways to expand their business.

-H.S.Communication

PARTY GIRLS ARE GOING TO SWING THE PARTY

2009-07-01T02:15:00.000-07:00

The concept of Item Girls is not new in India. And after IPL T20, Cheer Girls have grown popularity amongst the people. Now, LEO One Music has come up with entirely innovative concept of Party Girls in India and Mr.Sandeep Shukla the owner of Leo One Music thinks it would be well- accepted by the party lovers. This concept has up-rooted prevalence in Western countries. Party Girls concept comprise of four girls who are professional and will perform in parties and prove to be delight for party-lovers.

LEO One Music will also launch the music album of Party Girls with the voice of melodious Richa Sharma. Richa Sharma has several hit numbers under her belt. Taal, Zubedaa, Sathiya, Kal ho na ho, Gangajal, Omkara are few of the blockbusters which has been voiced by her. And now she is whole and soul part of Party Girls album. The husky and intense voice of Richa is well-suited to this album.

If RichaSharma is the soul then these four stunning girls are body of this concept. They are going display their moves on songs sung by Richa Sharma. Tanya, Seema, Mollira and Kelly are gorgeous girls hailing from Delhi, Allahabad, Assam and Goa respectively. According to them this innovative idea will be well-appreciated by people in India because occasions and celebrations are integral part of our society. The Lyrics is given by Saajan Agarwal, who is also the director of the Video and this Video has been choreographed by the famous Bollywood choreographer Jojo Khan

LEO One Music up-coming project includes Hindi feature film starring Anupam Kher, Rushad Rana, Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raj, Krishna Bhatt, Shehal Dhami and Rituparna Sengupta and Marathi film.

Undoubtedly, this album and their live performances will ensure absolute entertainment for party-animals.

-H.S.Communication

MY TARGET IAS HITS THE FLOOR OF DELHI

2009-07-01T02:11:00.000-07:00

The film ‘My Target IAS’ is based on a contemporary issue of the society. As the initial step, the film was released in Delhi on 18^th May. And eventually will be released all over India including Mumbai. The film is directed by Ajay Sood, he is even trying his hand in acting by playing the main lead in the film. The other star-cast of the film includes, well-known standup comedian Guggi, Raza Murad, Puneet Issar and Mitali and debutant Manisha.

As per Ajay Sood, the film is a reflection of contemporary society and attempts to present the Civil Services in a correct and positive perspective. It also attempts to impart valuable but little remembered facts relating to Indian contemporary history and the freedom movement while telling the delicate story of a young man’s struggle to get justice for a victimized woman. Manisha, the debut actress in Hindi film, she said that she was moved by the story narrated by Ajay Sood and took no time in agreeing to do the role. Guggi appears in a serious character quoted, he was greatly influenced by the story which had both a social and purposeful objective even as it entertains.

It is film which ensures to motivate and bring about awakening amongst youth to stand against the injustice and corruption.

-H.S.Communication

“Hues in Myriads”- Form and Formless

2009-07-01T02:07:00.000-07:00

Recently, Poonampratap hosted an exhibition of Paintings and Sculptures, presenting a collection of 26 renowned artists and India’s top 10 painters like Shamshad Hussain, Alka Raghuvanshi, Sudip Rop and the list continues at Habitat centre.

A reality/illusion that we perceive as a form in a time and space and portray it peppered with our own imagination or do we try to create a world that does not exist in our normal imagination or still do we use the world as it appears as a starting point to depict what is not seen/ is not visible and is felt only as an inner experience?. Do we need the cue of the familiar to arrive at the inner higher reality through art?

Platonic philosophy referred to a unique original of all the existent forms. The Greeks thus focussed more on creating the external forms and their expertise in rendering the perfect human and animal forms or even folds of cloth was marvellous. While in India and China efforts were made to capture the inner dimensions of a Being—human specially. Early Buddhist sculptures even refused to use human form of Buddha suggesting the ethereal can not be captured in a limiting human form.

The idea of limitless, going beyond the form leads one to the search for the formless infinite.

To view the form as totality of all viewing angles was the first step from form to formless. To arrive at the free float of formless not as an opposite of form but as mystical experience one requires looking at the Nirakar (the formless) in Indian philosophy.

So what is the quarrel between form based and formless or abstract art? This is what occupies svelte artist-curator Poonam Pratap Kohli. She has a cross section of artists like Shmshaad Hussain, Kanchan Chander, Vijendra Shaarma, Aradhana and many young faces. She presents artist Nilaudri Paul who floats thin languid acrylic like falling rain from soft monsoon clouds on his canvases. On his canvases appears the colourful cacophony of Meghdootam of Kalidas in which the naika is surrounded by liquid blooming colourful abstractions of space. Sudip Roy another artist who started his art journey in Delhi’s Sridharni gallery with watercolours of bottles reminded me of Italian artist Morandi, has been preoccupied with the long tradition of naika. His work is in consonance with poetics of romanticism going back to sensuousness of Gita Govinda.

Poonam has an alluring simplicity and innocence of expression in her art. She creates an underwater oasis where joy flourishes in free frolicsome gambolling of colour-textured fishes. Her use of light merging tones of crimson, blue and green enhances the softness and charm of underwater universe. Dilip has a ravishingly colourful world full of naively charming men and women while Pratap builds in relief a poetic sensuality of which I have spoken above. The bee-stung full lips, closed eyes like petals of a rose, the aquiline nose are all from the shilp shastra of yore.

Coming to the abstractionists Hem Raj, Alka and Viktor Vijay each have a very private personal expression. Hem Raj had been—right from the time he left College of Art Delhi—exploring the magic of line and thick heaped oily chromes on his vibrant canvases. The exhibition offers a cross section of form and formless expression adding to your aesthetic joy.

-H.S.Communication.

Mithun unveils the music of “Zor Lagaa Ke Haiya!”

2009-07-01T02:03:00.000-07:00

Recently, the music launch of film “Zor Lagaa Ke Haiya!” was held at The Club in Mumbai. The moment was glorified by charismatic Mithun Chakraborty, who is the lead star of the film of Gemini Motion Pictures. The other star-cast of the movie includes Mahesh Majrekar, Riya Sen, Seema Biswas, Glushan Grover and five amazing kids who play vital role in the movie. The movie is written and directed by Girish Girja Joshi and produced by Basant Talreja and Kartikeya Talreja. The music composed by duo Bapi -Tutul.

The music launch marked the presence of Mithun Chakraborty. Mimoh entered in the initial stage of the launch and electrified people with his fresh, slim look. The director and the producers along with the music composers were present at the music launch. The liveliness of the event was static by the young guns of the film.

From the start of the event the songs of the film with visual clippings were constantly played. Mimoh interacted with media and shared his views on the film, his diet-regime and weight loss program and on his stalwart father.

And then came the most awaited moment of the event, the launch of the music. The music unveiled by Mithun along with the director and producer of the film. All shared their views, experience and cause behind doing this film. Mithun stated that, this movie has a message of saving the trees, environment and mother Earth. He narrated the brief of the story for the media by stating, “Zor Lagaa Ke Haiya! Is about how a group of children, with the help of a homeless man overcome all obstacles to save a tree from being razed by money-minded construction giant. Their quest mirrors the apathy of contemporary society to such types of environmental issues.”

He also added that this film has already won awards and rewards at prestigious international arena including ‘Silver Palm Award at Mexico International Film Festival of 2009’, ‘Silver Remi Award at Houstan Film Festival’09’, ‘Officially selected for the Competition at Big island Film Festival in Hawaii’09’ and lately it also got prominence at Las Vegas International Film Festval’09 by receiving Official Finalist Award.

-H.S.Communication

MUMBAI GIRL FEATURES IN BANGLA FILM

2009-07-01T01:59:00.000-07:00

A Mumbai girl named Maya Suryavanshi recently grabbed a role in Bengali film produced by one of the biggest Bengali's corporate house “Channel 8”. This corporate house had thousand of Bengali serials in there Kitty and their 5 of the films are on the Floor and two films are in the phase of post-production.

Maya’s Bengali film will be directed by controversial Hindi film Director Vinod Chabra who has more than 10 films under his belt. His latest film “My husband's wife” will be going to release soon. And the executive producer of the film is Tapash Mukerjee. Maya resides in Mumbai since long period time. She is trained under the acting school of Kishore Namit Kapoor Acting School. She even has bagged series of experience by featuring in number of Print ads of companies like Reliance, ICICI, Prudential, Kalazone Sarees, Utsav calendar shoot, Mr. and Mrs. Black hair Color. She even worked in T.V Commercials like Max New York life, earlier she did few TV serial also which is Shh.phir koi hai and Jai ma durga.

The reason behind her getting casted in this film was that Director Vinod Chabra was looking for new face for his untitled Bengali film. She got recommended by P.R consultant Harish Sharma of H. S Communication and the Director selected her at once. The shooting will commence in mid-May in Malaysia.

Resul Pookutty and Mahesh Bhatt to highlight the plight of homeless children in Delhi

2009-07-01T01:53:00.000-07:00

Recently, Slumdog Millionaire Oscar winner Resul Pookutty and Mahesh Bhatt was in the town for their continued commitment to keep the focus on the plight of homeless children in the country. Along with children, Resul Pookutty is associated with a NGO, Butterflies India, at Store 99, located in Pacific Mall, in Vashali in Ghaziabad.

Talking about his Delhi visit, Pookutty says “Much more than anything else, it’s the theme of Slumdog Millionaire, particularly its focus on the plight of children that touched everyone, and this is what keeps him committed to do everything that he can do to improve their situation”.

Considered as one of the best sound designers in the Indian film Industry, Pookutty has some outstanding films to his credit, which include Black, Musafir, Zinda, Traffic Signal, Gandhi, My Father, Saawariya, and Dus Kahaniyaan. However, the last one year has been one of remarkable successes for Pookutty – first he designed sound for the 2008 blockbuster Ghajini, starring Aamir Khan, which was followed by even bigger success when his first major international project Slumdog Millionaire won him an Academy award. He was absolutely ecstatic when he received the award and charmed one and all when he delivered his famous speech saying, “This is not just a sound award, this is history being handed over to me”.

While Mahesh Bhatt enjoyed the company of kids, laughed and chatted with them. He said, “The innocence of these kids makes you fall in for them.”

Also Javed Mohammad and Ajay Chanchan were to be seen there supporting the NGO and interacting with the kids.

Delhi-based NGO Butterflies has earned a worldwide recognition for its innovative, realistic and relevant programmes for street and working children and has been working to improve their situation since 1989. Its core belief is that every child has a right to have a full-fledged childhood, and rights of street and working children are no exception.

Store 99, one of the fastest growing retail chains in Delhi and NCR, has been constantly involved in charity works to help street children so that they can have a better tomorrow. The Group was one of the founding equity members of the INDIA EXPOMART, pioneered in extensive network of retail stores, under the brand ‘Home Store’ and Sabka-Bazar for many years. Terming Pookutty’s visit as a manifestation of their corporate social responsibility, Mr Javed Mohammad, CEO, Store 99, said “I am absolutely humbled by his gesture and his continued desire to work for improving the situation of children living in extremely difficult situation, which is our mission as well”.

-H.S.Communication

11-year-old andheri girl donates rs21k to bihar relief fund the money was taken from piggy bank savings

2008-10-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

eleven-year-old iha sharma, an andheri (w) resident, has donated rs 21,000 to the bihar relief fund collected by a news channel. this class vi student gave away all the savings from her piggy bank to help flood-affected people in bihar."i knew about the floods in bihar. i saw kids crying on tv and decided to give my piggy bank money to them," said the little girl,

who watches the news regularly with her parents. she thought she had about rs 5,000 in her piggy bank, which she decided to donate so that "they get water, food and clothes from this money", her hope and confidence shining through. as it turned out, iha had saved a princely sum of rs 21,000. "the more the money, the better," she says.iha studies in janki devi public school, andheri (w), and says science and hindi are her favourite subjects. "i love singing and dancing. i have learnt kathak and i want to be a dancer - i like classical and western dance. or, i might be a gynecologist, since i like science," iha says, outlining her dreams. she also fasts on the first and last day of navratri and is socially active. the sharmas shifted from delhi to mumbai only four months ago. meenakshi sharma, iha's mother, says, "the bihar floods were being shown a lot on news channels and we were discussing what we could do for relief. iha's piggy bank weighed 2.5 kg and we had thought we would invest her savings for her. but then she said she would like to help the flood victims too and wanted to donate her savings. we told her that it was nice of her to do it, but she shouldn't regret it later, the way kids generally do. but she was determined to donate her money. we also sent clothes and made contributions to the school's relief fund. we are really happy about what she did."iha's father, harish, adds, "even as a child, she has been giving her dolls, old toys and clothes to slum dwellers nearby. during summer vacation, she would put up a stall of juice, sell it to people in the building for rs 5, collect the money and give it to the less privileged. she has always been sensitive to issues around her."iha has a simpler explanation. "i like to do all this," she says, saying it all.v_ritika@dnaindia.net