Saturday 8 April 2017

Sussanne Khan, Gauri Shinde feted as women achievers

Entrepreneur #Sussanne_Khan and film director #Gauri_Shinde were on Friday honoured as young women achievers by Union Minister #Smriti_Irani on behalf of Young FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO) at an event here that also witnessed a mesmerising fashion show by ace fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee.

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Besides Sussanne and Shinde, Malvika Poddar (fashion), Simran Lal (business), Kalli Purie (media), Shaina NC (politics), Deepa Malik (sports), Chiki Sarkar (literature), Preeti Chandra (community service), Bhavna Kakkar (art) and Vidha Lal (performing arts) were conferred with the awards.

The annual YFLO Achiever Awards 2016-17 were held at Hotel Lalit here.

"I am the third child of my parents and while growing up I know that I was lucky as my parents brought me up like a boy. There was no difference between me and my brothers. That is one lesson I learnt very young that children should always be treated equal," Sussanne, who is former wife of actor Hrithik Roshan, said on the stage.
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Kamal Haasan narrowly escapes fire tragedy

Actor-filmmaker #Kamal_Haasan on Saturday said he escaped a fire accident at his residence here on Friday night. He also clarified that no one got hurt.

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"Thanks to my staff. Escaped a fire at my house. Lungs full of smoke; I climbed down from the third floor. I am safe, No one hurt. Goodnight," Haasan tweeted early on Saturday.

He also thanked his fans for their "love and concern".

Haasan is currently mourning the death of his elder brother Chandrahasan who passed away in March.

Was never Spice Girls' best singer: Victoria Beckham

Former Spice Girls member #Victoria_Beckham, now a designer, says she was never the best singer or dancer in the group, which also consisted of Mel B, Emma Bunton, Geri Horner and Melanie C.

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Talking on why working in fashion makes her happier than her career pop, she told elleuk.com: "Being in the Spice Girls was so much fun, but I was never the best singer or dancer.

"I learned an enormous amount during that time, though: the staging, the lighting, the costumes - the package excited me. But I love fashion - this is what I'm genuinely interested in.
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Bella Hadid unfollows The Weeknd on Instagram

Supermodel #Bella_Hadid has unfollowed her fomer beau #The_Weeknd on Instagram.

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She was reportedly waiting for a quiet moment and trying to unfollow the "Starboy" crooner, though fans were quick to notice her action, reports aceshowbiz.com.

The fact that Hadid decided to unfollow The Weeknd came after the Canadian heartthrob and his current girlfriend Selena Gomez both unfollowed Hadid, who had posted a slew of her photos in bikini, on March 23. 
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Hrithik Roshan becomes brand ambassador of global meet up app

Bollywood superstar #Hrithik_Roshan has become the brand ambassador of digital global meet up application named #Happn.

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The announcement was made here on Friday in the presence of CEO and co-founder of the company Didier Rappaport. 

Dressed in white and grey, Hrithik looked dashing and said he was excited to be a part of the app that connects people.

Though there are many dating apps available online these days, the intention of this France-based company's app is to connect people with whom we often cross paths in daily life.
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Sandra Bullock spotted with beau during family vacation

Actress #Sandra_Bullock was spotted with her beau #Bryan_Randall stepping out arm-in-arm during their visit to Jackson Hole, Wyoming for a private family getaway.

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In photos obtained by eonline.com, the couple was spotted enjoying a trip to Whole Foods where they walked arm-in-arm to their car. 

The actress kept things casual with ripped denim jeans, a plaid jacket and black Ugg boots. As for Randall, he wore three layers and a beanie.

During their outing, the couple also headed to Teton Toys.

"They seemed very normal. It was just a normal, happy day," a source said.

"They were both smiling and having a good time."

According to eonline.com, the couple bought a pink PlasmaCar before leaving the local store.

'Pink' reached so many people because of Amitabh: Director

Director of #Pink Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury on Friday credited megastar #Amitabh_Bachchan for the wide reach and spread of the film among the people.

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"The film spread so far and wide, and reached so many people, because of Amitabh Bachchan," Roy Chowdhury said after "Pink" was adjudged "the best film on other social issues" in the National Film Awards announced earlier during the day.

Bachchan essayed the role of a retired lawyer in the movie that created a flutter with its content that challenged rigid social concepts and underscored sensitively the rights and dignity of women.

Praising the entire team, he said "Pink" was made with of love and belief.

Chowdhury recalled that he had originally wanted to do the film in Bengali but producer Shoojit Sircar and Ronnie Lahiri suggested it be made in Hindi.
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Tamannaah releases first look of 'Sketch'

Actress #Tamannaah_Bhatia on Friday unveiled the first look of her upcoming Tamil film #Sketch which also stars Vikram in the lead.

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Tamannaah shared the film's poster via her Twitter page.

Being directed by Vijay Chandar, the film is currently being shot and its story is set against the backdrop of North Chennai.

The film brings Vikram and Tamannaah together for the first time.
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Hema Malini wields broom, launches clean water service

BJP MP and veteran actress #Hema_Malini on Friday picked up a broomstick here to drive the message of cleanliness, and launched a service for home delivery of drinking water.

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She launched a "Home delivery water supply service" in Sonkh, which is a dark block and suffers from toxic underground reserves -- considered a health hazard.

The water to the town will be brought from a tube well some 6 km away in cans and jars and supplied to people at their homes at a nominal price.

Hema said supply of safe potable drinking water was a need of the town.

"Now RO water would be available to all," she said.
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Ed Sheeran not to be killed off in GoT

Singer #Ed_Sheeran has confirmed that he is not killed during his 'five minute' role in #GameOfThrones, saying he would prefer to "have sex than die" in the fantasy series.

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It was announced last month that he had filmed a cameo appearance for the hit HBO series, as a surprise for actress Maisie Williams.

"I do know which role I am going to play. I don't die in it, I don't die. I'd probably prefer to have sex than die in the show. I'm sure a lot of people are into that (have sex and die) but I'm not. I'm only in it for like five minutes," dailystar.co.uk quoted Sheeran as saying. 

Sheeran added that he got inspiration to join the show after seeing his friend Gary Lightbody, lead singer of Snow Patrol, do the same back in 2012.
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Education has become a business, says Irrfan

Internationally acclaimed star #Irrfan_Khan, who launched the trailer of his upcoming film #Hindi_Medium, feels that education has become a business in the country.

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"Through our film you will realise education has become a business now. It is absolutely important to have education, but at the same time it should flourish the capabilities of a person and it should evolve the personality of the human being," Irrfan said at the trailer launch on Thursday. 

The "Piku" star feels that "education now has become more of a tool to fix a human being into a corporate system or a particular profession".

The film deals with the stereotype of sending the children to an English medium school as the language has become a class nowadays from just being a language. 

Irrfan says the film gives a subtle message that language cannot be a unit to measure and judge an individual's worthiness. 
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64th National Film Awards: Regional cinema outshines Bollywood

In a turnaround from last year, regional cinema talent dominated Bollywood presence in the winners' list of the #64thNationalFilmAwards announced here on Friday.

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Only one top honour -- Best Actor -- went to Akshay Kumar for Hindi movie "Rustom", leaving much of Bollywood wondering why movies like "Dangal" and "Aligarh" were left out. 

The Best Hindi film award went to "Neerja".

"Bollywood films have not lost, but the regional cinema has excelled," the feature films' jury chairperson Priyadarshan told here.

"'Dangal' missed out because of the powerful regional films. It's not because of anything else. Some of the Marathi and Bengali films were brilliant and better," he added.
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USIBC joins iCreate entrepreneur incubation initiative in Ahmedabad

The US-India Business Council #USIBC on Friday announced to partner the International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology #iCreate, an entrepreneur incubation centre in Ahmedabad.

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The USIBC will support the iCreate's work in areas such as sharing of mentorship programme, research and startup collaboration, establishing centres of excellence and innovation, labs for pilot programmes and exploring funding opportunities for entrepreneurs and other allied activities, the council said in a statement.

"Following Cisco's partnership with iCreate, I am pleased to be part of the innovation and entrepreneurship dialogue between USIBC and iCreate. An institution like iCreate taps in to the entrepreneurial spirit of Gujarat, providing the younger generation with opportunities for employment and financial prosperity," said John Chambers,USIBC Chairman and Cisco Executive Chairman.

Friday 7 April 2017

Tiger Shroff to endorse new kids channel

Actor #Tiger_Shroff has been signed on to endorse Sony YAY!, a new children's entertainment channel by Sony Pictures Network.

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This is Tiger's debut association on television, and he shot for the brand film and theme song with children a few days ago.

"I am very excited to be part of this channel," the "Heropanti" and "Baaghi" actor said in a statement.

Tiger is the right fit for the channel, says Leena Lele Dutta, Business Head, Sony Pictures Network Kids Genre.

"Kids across the country relate to him and consider Tiger as their icon. Given his affinity with kids, we could not have found a better representative for our channel," Dutta added.
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Richa Chadha's 'anecdotal' book to be out this year

Actress #Richa_Chadha says her debut book will be anecdotal in nature and she hopes she does a good job.

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Penguin India will publish the "Fukrey" actress' book later this year.

"I am writing an anecdotal kind of piece. I wanted to go beyond social media and get a little more in-depth," Richa said in a statement.

"My interest in writing is not new. I hope I can do a good job. This year is special, my debut production and book both come out in 2017," added the actress, who has stepped into production with short film "Khoon Aali Chithi".

In her book, she journals her personal journey towards ideal health amid travels to distant cultures and hectic shoots, a source close to the actress said.
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Hugh Jackman kisses Michelle Williams on set

Actors #Hugh_Jackman and #Michelle_Williams, who are currently busy shooting for "The Greatest Showman", were spotted kissing each other on the upcoming films set here.

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Jackman and Williams were photographed kissing each other on Wednesday, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Dressed in traditional 1940s clothing, the pair looked nice together.

Jackman, 48, donned a grey three-piece suit and top hat, while Williams, 36, was elegant in a fur coat fastened with a delicate pearl brooch at the neck.

"The Greatest Showman" is Jackman's first musical since "Les Miserables" in 2012, and he has said that it has been his dream project since 2009.
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I don't look at the cup as half full: Brosnan

Opening up about life after the death of both his first wife and daughter, Hollywood star #Pierce_Brosnan says he still believes in looking for positive things in life.

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Brosnan's wife of 11 years Cassandra Harris died in 1991 due to ovarian cancer at the age of 43, and then he lost his daughter Charlotte to the same disease in 2013 when she was 42. 

"I don't look at the cup as half full, believe me. The dark, melancholy Irish black dog sits beside me from time to time," Brosnan told esquire.com. 

Theron not a bad kissing partner: Vin Diesel

Actor #Vin_Diesel, who will be seen locking lips with #Charlize_Theron in the forthcoming action film "The Fate of the Furious", says the actress is not a bad kissing partner.

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Diesel says when director F. Gary Gray told him he would be smooching Theron he was very happy, and he was even more pleased when Gray made them re-enact the kiss over and over again.

"I was definitely not complaining... Charlize Theron is not a bad kissing partner to have. There are worse things that can happen to you," Diesel told usatoday.com.

Diesel even shared that Theron enjoyed every minute of their onscreen kiss.
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Kate Hudson inspired by Oprah Winfrey

Actress #Kate_Hudson finds media mogul #Oprah_Winfrey inspiring when it comes to body positivity.

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During an interview with vogue.com, she was asked who stands out to her as an inspiration in terms of body positivity?

The actress said: "I'm going to give the really obvious answer to that, which to me is Oprah. I just think she is forever, that woman. You want to do the healthy thing, but you know what? Women fluctuate."
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Jimmy Fallon, Dwayne Johnson go undercover

Host #Jimmy_Fallon and actor #Dwayne ‘The Rock Johnson went undercover at Universal Studios in Orlando.

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"The Tonight Show" host opened his new ride "Race Through New York" this week. To commemorate the special occasion, Fallon and Johnson did a special "Race Through Universal Studios" segment. 

They dressed up like mascot versions of themselves and greeted fans at the theme park, reports etonline.com.

First they competed to see who could get the most high fives, selfies, and hugs, which Fallon won. Then they decided to surprise some park-goers.
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Feel blessed to be a part of Gulzar's plays: Zoa Morani

Theatre and Bollywood actress #Zoa_Morani, who has worked in films like "Bhaag Johny" and "Always Kabhi Kabhi", is now experimenting in theatre circuit and feels blessed to be part of Gulzar's plays.

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"I am working in a play which is directed by Salim Arif and adapted by Gulzar. Earlier, I have worked in two plays written by Gulzar.A I feel blessed to be a part of the plays which are written by Gulzaar sahab, as I got the opportunity to learn about tehzeeb and language," she said.

"This play will feature in Prithvi Theatre's children's festival in May. The play is similar to Broad ay style which will include dancing, singing and acting," she added.

Zoa, daughter of Karim Morani, producer of films like "Chennai Express" and "Ra One", also shared her thoughts on the ongoing debate on nepotism. "Nepotism exists in every field. When your entire family is doing same business, then it is obvious that children will take that business forward but eventually it also depends on how focused and talented that person is at his task and the love from the audience is also deciding factor in actor's career."

Though coming from a very strong film background, Zoa wants to try things on her own and is open to try her hands at different genres.
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Amitabh misses book launch due to high fever

Megastar #Amitabh_Bachchan, who was supposed to launch book "Yesterday's Film For Tomorrow" by film archivist P.K. Nair here on Thursday, couldn't turn up as he is suffering from high fever.

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However at the book launch by the Film Heritage Foundation, the country's only non-government film archive, the other invited celebrities such as Naseeruddin Shah, Shyam Benegal and Vidhu Vinod Chopra were present and did the honours.

The Big B, who is also the foundation's brand ambassador, however sent a letter of apology to the organisers which the foundation's founder Shivendra Singh Dungarpur shared with the media.

The letter read: "I have suddenly and quite unexpectedly developed a high fever .. I regret profusely that I shall be unable to attend your event this evening .. a shame really because I was looking forward to it ..

I'm self-proclaimed afficiando of eyewear: Ranveer Singh

Known for his eclectic, quirky and eccentric fashion style, Bollywood actor #Ranveer_Singh can carry any ensemble with absolute panache. The actor says he is a self-proclaimed aficionado of #eyewear and feels more than happy about his fans and well-wishers following his trends.

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Ranveer, who endorses eyewear label Carrera, was here to launch the new campaign for the brand.

Talking about his love for sunglasses, Ranveer told here: "I'm a self- proclaimed aficionado of eyewear."

Be it bright colours, elaborate prints or out-of-the-box silhouettes, Ranveer has been praised for his bold looks. The actor says his style is not by intent.

As to how he feels about all the appreciation coming his way, Ranveer says: "It feels wonderful... it's not by intent or by design... it just happened that a couple of years into show business, I decided I'm not going to try and make an attempt... a futile attempt to sort of fit into some kind of expectations or moulds of looking or dressing."
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Vinod Khanna stable, says hospital

Veteran Bollywood actor #Vinod_Khanna, who was hospitalised last week due to severe dehydration, has responded positively to treatment and is stable, doctors treating him said on Thursday.

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The actor "was admitted to Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital on Friday with severe dehydration. He is under the care of our doctors and has responded positively to the treatment and is now stable," the hospital spokesperson said.

"His family thanks his well-wishers for the good wishes and requests to respect their privacy," he added.

Vinod Khanna's son Rahul told on Tuesday: "Dad was hospitalised on Friday (March 31) for severe dehydration. The situation was quickly brought under control, he's doing much better and the doctors are looking to discharge him soon."

Thursday 6 April 2017

Being an actor was never my dream: Parineeti Chopra

Actress #Parineeti_Chopra, whose next Bollywood outing is #MeriPyaariBindu, says she never dreamt of being in this field.

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Parineeti ventured into the Hindi film industry in 2011 with "Ladies vs Ricky Bahl", and she has featured in movies like "Ishaqzaade", "Shuddh Desi Romance", "Hasee Toh Phasee" and "Daawat-e-Ishq".

Talking about her journey, Parineeti said in a statement: "Being an actor or acting was never my dream but I knew I was living my dream when my first film released, and I saw thousands of people go out there, watch my films, love me and then mob me on the road."

The actress is one amongst those Bollywood celebrities who feature in Mark Bennington's photographic book titled "Living The Dream". 

The book has a photograph of Parineeti, captured at a fan meet after the release of "Ishaqzaade".

The 28-year-old actress says it was "awesome" to be captured by Bennington.

"My photograph in the book is very special," she added. 
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Music is important for environment too: Ayaan, Amaan

Sarod players #Ayaan and #Amaan_Ali_Bangash feel music is important for the environment too.

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The sons of legendary sarod player Amjad Ali Khan performed at the Network 18's ‘Global Natural Resources Conclave' here on Wednesday.

They said in a statement: "Music plays a very important role towards the environment. It is also scientifically proven that music has a positive effect on the mind, soul, and body and most importantly on plants."
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New chapter has started: Javed Akhtar on revamped IPRS

Veteran writer-lyricist #Javed_Akhtar, who has been elected as the Chairman of the revamped Indian Performing Right Society Ltd #IPRS, feels a new chapter has begun.

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Fresh elections were held after more than a decade in the revamped IPRS, in which both the authors (music composers and lyricists) and publishers (music labels) participated. 

"IPRS has turned over a new page and a new chapter has started, where there is no 'we' and 'them', only 'us'," Akhtar said in a statement on Thursday. 

"Writers, composers and publishers have risen above the past conflicts and have a taken a pledge to work together for the enhancement of Indian Music Industry's reach and prosperity."

The revamped IPRS has adopted a new working constitution and is fully in sync with the Amended Copyright Act. The primary objective of this constitution is to ensure rightful royalty flow to all the rights owners, while simplifying licensing process for the end users.

'Google Play Music' subscription now in India

Offering music lovers a fresh take on streaming that is easier and consumes little data, #GoogleIndia on Thursday launched #GooglePlayMusic subscription in India.

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'Google Play Music' is available across Android, iOS and web. By signing up at early stages, users can get a free trial on all three platforms, the company said in a statement.

"As an introductory offer, it is available for a discounted subscription offer of Rs 89 per month if you sign up within the first 45 days," it added.

'Google Play Music' offers a music catalogue of over 40 million local and international hits.

"With 'Google Play Music' subscription, Indian subscribers can listen to their favourite music across a variety of languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil and more," said Elias Roman, Lead Product Manager at Google Play Music.
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D & K Worldwide Planning To Launch Skin Care Products In India

D & K Worldwide a Korea based cosmetics and #skin_care_brand is planning to launch their multiple range of skin care products in India. Recently, they exhibited their products in Beauty India exhibition.

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Miss. Kim, representative of D & K worldwide talked about her products and their strategies to cater the Indian market, she said, “Indian market is one of the fastest growing market for cosmetics, skin care and all other beauty products. There is lot of business opportunities for us in this market. Bollywood is most well-known and happening thing in the world as compared to Hollywood. We are looking forward to expand our business in Bollywood and some of the fashion weeks”.

Talking about the company and various products of the brand she said, “This is our maiden venture in India. Basically, we are available in all kinds of skin make up products such as basic skin care to Premium skin care products also we have hair and Nail products.

One of our special product is “Donkey Milk Cream” which contains Protein, Casein, Vitamin C , Niacinamide, Adenosine that protects and provide skin nourishment and also effective for Whitening, Anti-Wrinkle & smoothing the skin, Donkey milk can be extracted only less than 1 liter a day for 6 months which is high scarcity. Donkey Milk bath is known for Cleopatra’s Beauty Secrets. Donkey Milk cream can be used for all ages and Skin types.

Tuesday 4 April 2017

Vin Diesel used student credit card to finance his dreams

Actor #Vin_Diesel has revealed he used a "student credit card" to finance his first films script.

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The 49-year-old, who is now among the A-list stars of Hollywood, says at the beginning of his career, he desperately needed finance to give shape to his ideas.

"To write my first script, I went to an early electronics store called the Wiz that was on 14th Street (in New York). They had a policy where you could return anything within 30 days, no questions asked," Diesel told nytimes.com.

"So I went to the Wiz and bought this $600 word processor on my student credit card. I stayed up all night, every night. And at the end of the 30 days, I returned it.

Demi Lovato likes to have women in her team

Singer-actress #Demi_Lovato says it is cool to be the only girl in a gang of boys, but she also knows what its like to be a part of something that has more women involved.

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"I remember being 15 and being on tour with my band that was made up of all guys, while touring with The Jonas Brothers," Lovato said in a statement. 

The actress, who has voiced the character Smurfette in forthcoming film "Smurfs-The Lost Village", added: "I now have a lot of women on my team. From my day-to-day manager to my hair and make-up artist, I have a lot of women around me. So, yes, I know what it's like to feel like the only girl. But I also know what it's like to be a part of something that has more women involved."

Directed by Kelly Asbury, the film -- being brought to India by Sony Pictures Entertainment India -- will release in India on April 21.
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Jessica Chastain has affinity towards animals: Niki Caro

"The Zookeeper's Wife" director #Niki_Caro says he was pleasantly surprised after seeing actress #Jessica_Chastain's affection towards animals on the film's set.

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Written by Angela Workman, the film features Chastain along with Johan Heldenbergh, Michael McElhatton and Daniel Bruhl. It features Chastain as historic figure Antonina Zabinska, a Polish woman who smuggled Jews out of the country when it was occupied during World War II.

"The combination of real creatures and an actress who has an otherworldly connection to them made for extraordinary moments. Jessica was critical to my vision for the movie, and when I met her the first thing she said was that she loved animals. But I had no idea of the depth of her affinity with them," Caro said in a statement provided by the film's publicist. 

He added: "In that regard, Jessica and Antonina share a very, very rare gift. Many times during shooting, Jessica would calm the animals, make them feel safe. This was a joy to watch and certainly a joy to shoot."

Inspired by a true story, the film is set directly after the Nazi invasion of Poland in 1939. Antonina runs the Warsaw Zoo along with her husband Jan Zabinski (Heldenbergh).
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Ali Fazal signs with international talent agency

Bollywood actor #Ali_Fazal, who will be seen in the title role of Stephen Frears' #Victoria_and_Abdul with Judi Dench, has signed with a talent management firm that looks into the work of the Hollywood veteran apart from Jude Law and Daniel Day Lewis.

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Ali has signed with Julian Belfrage Associates, read a statement.

He said: "My question to Victoria Belfrage (managing director) was why me and what did she see in me to sign me on. She got excited of all the footage she saw of 'Victoria and Abdul' and I guess she saw something in me which she thought had promise."

"I am really excited to be signed on by Julian Belfrage Associates who manage some of the best talent out there and I am really excited for this new dimension and beginning. It's a new market for me. I will be launching myself here and it's all very new," he added.
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Twinkle wants KJo to cast her in 'My Name is Khanna'

Writer-former actress #Twinkle_Khanna has suggested a sequel titled #MyNameisKhanna to filmmaker and friend #Karan_Johar, who made Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol-starrer "My Name is Khan" in 2010.

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Karan took to Twitter on Monday to praise her act in a campaign. "So...Mrs Funny Bones (Twinkle) you nail it with your words and now you are excelling in front of the camera...you go girl!"

To which, Twinkle joked: "Since you are so impressed can I suggest a sequel to 'My Name is Khan'? Add two alphabets and call it 'My Name is Khanna', and cast me."

Karan, who has often said that Twinkle turned down a role in his debut film "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai", said: "Darling you rejected my first offer ever! Now I am hurt forever... Lodging my emotional complaint to Google India."
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'Naam Shabana' packs a punch at box office

#Naam_Shabana, which shows actress #Taapsee_Pannu throwing punches at the baddies and breaking their bones, has garnered box office collection of Rs 18.76 crore in India.

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The Shivam Nair directorial has seen a good growth in the last three days. It minted Rs 5.12 crore on March 31, Rs 6.37 crore on April 1, and Rs 7.27 crore on April 2, the spokesperson of the film said in a statement. 

The film is getting significant demand from overseas market and has been released in 37 countries and over 354 screens worldwide.
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Fashion police bothers Amyra Dastur

Actress #Amyra_Dastur says she likes to experiment with her style, but doesn't appreciate fashion policing.

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Asked if the fashion police bothers her, Amyra told over phone from Mumbai: "It does. I am someone who loves fashion and when someone starts criticising I don't like it. I would be lying if I said it does not." 

The actress, who spoke about her love for denims in ‘Denim Atelier' -- a session hosted by French fashion label Promod -- with stylist Bornali Talukdar last week, added: "So at the end of the day, I dress like myself but have people you can call them fashion police or whatever at the back of my mind."

The "Kung Fu Yoga" star feels fashion is ever-changing. 

"Fashion is something which is not set in stone. For me, fashion in one word is experimentation." 

The actress also said that with time, she has become more casual with her style quotient. 

"I remember when I was young I always wanted to go for a red carpet look or something very formal. But now I love jeans. I cannot get out of my jeans. So, it has become more casual for me."
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Bollywood stars vs MPs: Cricket match for a cause

Bollywood celebrities like #Suniel_Shetty, #Sohail_Khan, #Jimmy_Shergill and #Sonu_Sood will compete with a team of members of Parliament at the picturesque cricket ground of Dharamsala as part of TB-Free India Summit later this week.

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It will be a two-day affair where the Mumbai Heroes and Members of Parliament XI will play a T20 game of cricket. Actor Bobby Deol will lead the team of Bollywood celebrities, and former BCCI President Anurag Thakur will captain the MPs' team.

The TB-Free India Summit and India vs TB cricket tournament is being organised under the initiative of Call to Action for a TB-Free India.

It aims to bring top government officials and members of Parliament together with film celebrities to raise awareness among key stakeholders and audience on tuberculosis and build the momentum to eradicate the disease from India by 2025.
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Cisco, RVCE launch 'Centre of Excellence' in IoT

Global networking giant #Cisco and RV College of Engineering (RVCE) on Monday announced the launch of a Centre of Excellence #CoE in Internet of Things #IoT for digital skills and training.

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The centre, located at the RVCE campus in Bengaluru, was inaugurated by Gaurav Gupta, Principal Secretary of Karnataka's Department of IT, BT and S&T, and VC Gopalratnam, SVP-IT and CIO-International, Cisco.

"With the Centre of Excellence here, we are giving students and working professionals across the state access to the skills and training to help them create startups and build successful technology careers," said Gopalratnam.

Over the next five years, the centre will provide a specialised curriculum, preparing up to 10,000 students from 50 colleges across the state for careers in the digital world.

Monday 3 April 2017

Gomez's break reconnected her with life

#Selena_Gomez's three-month break from the spotlight last year helped her reconnect with "real" life, says the singer-actress' mother #Mandy_Teefey.

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Gomez looked radiant as she flaunted her orange dress by fashion designer Oscar De La Renta at the premiere of series "13 Reasons Why" here last week. 

When asked about Gomez, Teefey said her hiatus helped her to be more focused on her career.

"She looks like the sun. I was like, '(You're) a little sun'. I think it was actually (from) taking a break," Teefey told etonline.com.

Teefey shared that Gomez's break from the pressure of fame let her reconnect with her roots and "the real world".

Kat Graham to sell Hollywood Hills villa for $1.3 mn

Singer-actress #Kat_Graham is bidding adieu to her gated retreat in the Hollywood Hills here. The 27-year-old has put her Cahuenga Canyon compound is on sale for $1.3 million, reports pagesix.com.

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Graham purchased the home in 2012 for $849,000. 

It has only two bedrooms and two baths, but the house measures 2,174 sq ft and includes a meditation room, den and recording studio. There's also a tranquil stone courtyard with a fountain and bench.

The Spanish-style home was built in 1927 and has since been remodeled, with the original architecture intact. The kitchen has stainless-steel appliances, along with vintage Spanish tile work. It also includes a fireplace in the living room and vaulted ceilings with heavy wooden beams in many rooms.
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Olly Murs 'still broken' after Francesca Thomas breakup

Singer #Olly_Murs says his heart is "still broken" after splitting from #Francesca_Thomas over 18 months ago.

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While performing here at the O2 Arena last week, Murs told fans that he was struggling to move on from the "tough" breakup as he played the first gig of his 24 Hours tour, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Murs's three-year relationship with Thomas came to an end in September 2015.

"It's really tough going through a break up you know, we've all been through break ups right?" Murs said.

"It's not nice to have a broken heart, mine's still broken," he added.

Murs added that he knew his relationship needed work.

Indian singer Arko features on Billboard Charts

Indian singer-songwriter #Arko_Pravo_Mukherjee, who was launched by filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt in Bollywood with "Jism 2" in 2012, has featured on the #US_Billboard_Charts.

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His song "Reeva" has become the No.1 Break Out Song for the Billboard Dance Club 50 Charts. 

As per the April 1 reports, the track entered the Billboard Dance 50 Charts at Number 49. It has now climbed to number 45.

Arko said in a statement: "Since the past one year, my management team Sujit Tewari and Shehan Raj have been working on my parallel career in the West and we decided to independently launch the single and now we have major labels chasing us to tie up.
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Didn't use pitch corrector for Tendulkar: Sonu Nigam

Singer #Sonu_Nigam, who has collaborated with #Sachin_Tendulkar for the iconic cricketer's debut track #Cricket_waali_beat, says he is a very good singer.

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The song will have its world TV premiere on the grand finale of singing TV reality show "Indian Idol 9" on Sunday night on Sony Entertainment Television.

Talking about it, Sonu said here: "I am glad to be part of Sachin's new innings. The song that he has sung with me is called 'Cricket waali beat'. I was very surprised to see the way he was pitching right. That's why I believe that when God blesses someone with genius, it spills in other faculties too."

Sonu can now vouch for Tendulkar's singing skill.
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How to offer healthy diet to children

Pile on #nutrition on your childs plate and make it look yummy yet #healthy, say experts.

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Sujetha Shetty, nutritionist and diet expert at online fitness platform Gympik, and Gulneer Puri, dietician at tele-medicine platform Doctor Insta, suggest how:

* Grains: Choose whole grains such as whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, quinoa or brown bread. Whole grains are good sources of Vitamin B and fibre which fill your child's tummy and help improving digestion.

* Protein: Proteins are the building blocks which are important for maintaining and repairing tissues, making haemoglobin, improving immunity, and helping muscles grow. The sources of protein include seafood, eggs, lean meat and poultry, legumes, peas, beans, soy products, unsalted nuts and seeds.

* Fruits: Including fruits and vegetables in your child's diet is one of the major difficulties you might have already faced. Encourage your child to eat a variety of fresh fruits. Let fruit juice be the last option as the juice takes out the fibre that comes from the whole fruit. Also, fruit juices come with loads of added sugar that only contribute to empty calories sans nutrition. If your child drinks juice, make sure you make it at home without adding sugar.

Badshah dedicates new album to fans

Rapper #Badshah has dedicated his new album "O.N.E' to his fans to thank them for their support.

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Badshah, who is signed by Sony Music India, has released the first track from the album titled "MERCY" -- featuring Lauren Gottlieb.

"It's been long since I have released something on my own. My last was 'DJ waley babu' which is still getting played at clubs and parties and since then, my fans have been consistently asking me for new music," Badshah said in a statement.

He added: "'O.N.E' is an intention to give them exactly that. I am where I am because of them and, therefore, I believe an entire album with my originals is my way of thanking them."
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Amjad Ali Khan praises Karan Johar's courage

Eyebrows were raised when #Karan_Johar, who has as much link with Hindustani classical music as the sarod maestro #Amjad_Ali_Khan has with tabloid gossip, released the latter's new book "Master On Masters". But the musician says has only good things to say about Karan, who he feels is not just multi-faceted, but courageous too.

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When asked why Karan, the softspoken sarod exponent became sentimental, and said: "My family I have always shared close ties with Karan's parents Yashji and Hirooji. All of us have in my family have the greatest regards for Karan Johar."

"In such a short time of his life, he has achieved so much. Barely in his 40s, he is a multi-dimensional, multi-faceted personality. He has produced and directed so many successful films, carrying his father's legacy forward."

Khan is all praise for Karan's autobiography "An Unsuitable Boy".

"You need tremendous courage to share your most private thoughts. He has tremendous courage of conviction. This is why we all love and respect him in our family. We wish a great life for his two children the angels Yash and Hiroo," he said, referring to Karan's newly-born surrogate twins.

Tyra Banks removes contestant age limit on show

Former supermodel #Tyra_Banks, also the host of #Americas_Next_Top_Model, has announced that she is doing away with an age limit for the show.

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Banks made the announcement via a video posted online on Saturday, reports variety.com.

She said: "There have been 23 cycles of ‘America's Next Top Model', and every single cycle we say you have to be 27 years old or younger."

"You know what I hear all the time? ‘Tyra, come on. Why have an age limit?' So, you know what? I'm taking that age limit off." 

"You want to audition for ‘America's Next Top Model'? I don't care how old you are, honey. You just need to know how to smize and be open to learning how to work the runway like a supermodel," she said.
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Kylie Jenner, Tyga living separate lives

Reality TV star #Kylie_Jenner and rapper #Tyga are reportedly living separate lives.

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"Kylie is sad as she and Tyga are living separate lives. Lately she has been spending more time with friends and less time with Tyga as things really are cooling off between them," a source told hollywoodlife.com. 

"Kylie is finding comfort in her friends as she deals with her relationship issues," the source added.

Tyga has even moved out of Kylie's Hidden Hills house, if the source is to be believed.

"Kylie feels like she needs a break from Tyga's mooching ways as well as all the baby mama drama with Chyna. Kylie saw what happened to Rob (Kardashian) and Chyna and now she is hitting the brakes on her and Tyga before she falls into a messy situation with him too," the source said.

Dilip Kumar doing well, says Saira Banu

Bollywood thespian #Dilip_Kumar is "well" and at home, his wife #Saira_Banu said on Sunday, clarifying buzz that the 94-year-old actor's health is not up to the mark.

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A post from Dilip Kumar's official Twitter handle read: "Message from Saira Banu: By the grace of God, Dilip Sahab is at home and doing well. God has been very kind."

She added that the love of his family, friends and fans keeps him going.

"Sahab believes that to be surrounded by family and friends who love him unconditionally is therapy by itself. He is blessed with the prayers and love of his millions of fans, admirers, friends and well wishers. Dilip sahab himself will be back on Twitter soon, Insha'Allah," the post read further.

Ajay Devgn turns 48, B-Town wishes good health, happiness

Bollywood celebrities including #Parineeti_Chopra, #Riteish_Deshmukh and #Bipasha_Basu on Sunday wished a happy birthday to actor #Ajay_Devgn, who has been tagged as a prankster.

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Ajay's colleagues, friends and well-wishers tweeted their wishes. 

The 48-year-old actor-producer began his professional career with "Phool Aur Kaante". He then starred in films like "Jigar", "Dilwale", "Suhaag", "Naajayaz", "Diljale" and "Ishq". In 1998, he featured in Mahesh Bhatt's drama "Zakhm", and won his first National Film Award for Best Actor for his role in the movie.

In 2016, he was honoured with the Padma Shri. Married to actress Kajol, he is a father of two.

Here's what the celebrities had to say: 

Parineeti Chopra: Happy birthdayyy Gopu! To one of the most amazing human beings - Happy birthday! Ajay Devgn...'Golmaal Again' wrap.

Bipasha Basu: Happy birthday dearest Ajay Devgn. Stay blessed and happy always. Hugs.