Madhuri charms audience in "Aaja Nachle"

MUMBAI: Nimble-footed Madhuri Dixit danced her way into the hearts of Indian audiences who heaped praises on the diva for her performance in the musical "Aaja Nachle".

"Our actors should learn from her how to remain beautiful and graceful," Anil Prabhakar, an enthusiastic 36-year-old fan of Dixit said. "She is over 40 but look at her acting and her dancing. It is still mind-blowing. She is the best."

Looked upon as the Indian film industry’s dancing queen, audiences feel Dixit is at her best in "Aaja Nachle" where she plays the role of a divorced choreographer who returns to India to save a theatre where she had first learnt to dance.

"The story is very good, very new," housewife Nimisha Patel said. "Everyone has acted really really well but Madhuri rocks."

Playing the protagonist in the film by director Anil Mehta, Dixit makes a comeback to cinema after six years.

"After a long time I have seen a woman protagonist in an Indian film. I hope it does well,” Ashutosh Rane, 32, said.

The film, which opened to audiences today, shows Dixit getting a call from India asking her to return to her native town, Shamli, as her mentor was critically ill.

She returns to India only to find that her mentor had died and 'Ajanta', the theatre where she learnt dancing, was about to be demolished and a shopping mall constructed in its place.

She decides to save the theatre by staging a romantic musical with the help of locals who can neither sing nor dance.

Dixit successfully stages the musical with help from some of the quirky characters of the town and saves 'Ajanta' from demolition before returning to the U.S.

"Watching her dance is fulfilling," business professional Shweta Sharma said. "She is magical." "We want to see her in many more films," another fan, Ashish Chowdhry, said and added, "I hope 'Aaja Nachle' is not her last film."

Prithwish Ganguly, Reuters India

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Aaja Nachle - Movie Review

A 'comeback' film always holds significance. Dilip Kumar [KRANTI], Amitabh Bachchan [MRITYUDAATA], Vinod Khanna [INSAAF], Dimple Kapadia [SAAGAR], Mumtaz [AANDHIYAAN] and Kajol [FANAA] are names you cannot erase from your memory since the celebrated actors returned to the big screen after a hiatus.

With AAJA NACHLE, Madhuri Dixit, who reigned supreme, is back to the studios with the Numero Uno production house of the country. Does the actress still possess the charisma to ignite fire in water? Also, does the vehicle she chooses to make a comeback with, have the fuel to reach the winning post?

Sadly, AAJA NACHLE is below the mediocre mark and doesn't meet the humungous expectations that you associate with the Yashraj - Madhuri combo. What's the problem? Without a doubt, the script! What starts off as a story that seems real and identifiable becomes a fairy tale in the latter hour. Also, with a title like AAJA NACHLE and the story harping on music, the songs had to be chartbusters. That's just not the case here!

In short, AAJA NACHLE fails in the two vital departments -- writing and music. The film doesn't make your heart go dhak-dhak, nor does it prompt you to break into a nach at the end of the show.

After nearly a decade, an unexpected phone call shakes Dia [Madhuri Dixit] out of her dance rehearsal in New York. Makarand [Darshan Zariwala], her guru, is dying and she must return to Shamli, a town in India. The town where she grew up, the town where she learnt to live and to dance. Also the town she left on an impulse, severing ties with her parents and her people.

It is a poignant and troubled return; not only has her guru passed away but the institution that he so lovingly nurtured is in decay and under threat of demolition. Ajanta theatre, the once vibrant hub of the community, the place where Dia's fondest memories are embedded, must now be brought down because the local political authorities feel it a waste of prime real estate.

With the help of Doctor [Raghuvir Yadav], the caretaker of Ajanta, Dia sets out on a mission to prevent the destruction and resurrect the spirit of Ajanta. In an atmosphere of mistrust, ridicule and active hostility, Dia picks up the gauntlet and agrees to achieve the near impossible task of putting together a theatrical production. She must also ensure that every member of the production is from Shamli town. She has only two months to prove her point or the bulldozers will be waiting.

Bearing a striking similarity to the Brazilian film XUXA REQUEBRA, Jaideep Sahni's screenplay is the biggest culprit here. The protagonist [Madhuri] knows that there would be hurdles galore on her way, as she embarks on a journey to realize her guru's dreams. But she hardly struggles to achieve the impossible. Even the corrupt politician [Akhilendra Mishra] or the shrewd businessman [Irrfan], who could've proved to be tough nuts to crack, give in so easily.

Besides, the goings-on get too unbelievable. The first question that crosses your mind is, how does Madhuri raise the funds to put up this spectacular event [the set design in the penultimate song is marvellous]? Okay, that's a cinematic liberty, but, seriously, there should've been at least some reference to where the money would flow in to fund this mammoth, lavish and extravagant event. What starts off as a 'real' film, drifts into a 'surreal' world as it moves ahead.

Debutante director Anil Mehta knows the importance of frames/visuals since he's an accomplished cinematographer. But Mehta ought to know by now that it's the content that does the talking eventually. The writing is too commonplace to make any impact whatsoever. In an effort to strike a balance between believable and make-believe, AAJA NACHLE falls like a pack of cards.

Salim-Sulaiman's music is another minus point. You expect the songs to linger in your memory even after the show has ended… that's what makes a musical tick, right? It's not the case here. Dialogues are wonderful at places, especially the ones delivered by Akshaye Khanna and Madhuri. Cinematography [Mohanan] is splendid.

Madhuri has always delivered qualitative performances and the fire continues to burn to this date. She's top notch, but how one wishes the script would've done justice to her talent. It doesn't offer her a pedestal to take that big leap. The loyal Madhuri fans would surely feel disillusioned and saddened.

Akshaye Khanna is tremendous. In fact, it's a treat to watch Madhuri and Akshaye together, after a hiatus. Kunal Kapoor is likable; he enacts his part with natural ease. Konkona is nice, but when compared to her previous work, it's definitely not in that league.

Irrfan, in a brief role, is okay. Divya Dutta too is relegated to the backseat. Ranvir Shorey is first-rate. Ditto for Raghuvir Yadav. Darshan Zariwala does a fine job. Yashpal Sharma is alright. Vinay Pathak and Sushmita Mukherjee are adequate. Akhilendra Mishra is as usual. Jugal Hansraj gets no scope. Vinod Nagpal and Uttara Baokar, as Madhuri's parents, have nothing much to do. Felix D'Alviella [as Steve -- Madhuri's lover] is passable.

On the whole, AAJA NACHLE disappoints big time. At the box-office, the film has embarked on a poor start and coupled with weak merits will only emerge as one of the major disappointments of the year.

IndiaFM

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Madhuri Dixit's Grand Evening: Aaja Nachle Premiere

By now the whole world and its favourite tv channels know Madhuri Dixit is back in Mumbai to promote her latest film.

Unfortunately her two sons Arin and Ryan are not here. And they won't be attending Mama's Grand Evening later this week when her new film is premiered.

"My husband is flying down for the premiere. But my children aren't coming. For them this long journey from Denver to Mumbai for just a fortnight would've been too tedious.

In fact I had synchronized the shooting of my film with their holidays so they could be with me for the summer. That's why I could work in such a relaxed atmosphere over my new movie."

Madhuri's mother-in-law who lives in LA is currently in Denver too look after the two boys. The doting mom admits she's tense about her children not being with her.

Suabash K Jha, Santabanta

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''I never thought that marriage ends anyone's career." - Madhuri Dixit

Bollywood diva Madhuri Dixit, who scorched celluloid with her sheer elegance and histrionics till her marriage to an Indian doctor in the US five years ago, is on a comebak trail, ready to sizzle the screen once again.

''I never thought that marriage ends anyone's career. I got married, I never thought I was going to leave films or I am going to give up anything. I got married and had kids and so I had to take that break.

''And when I found a good script and the time to do it, then I said yes, went ahead and I did it. But I don’t think marriage should end anybody’s career,'' she told NDTV in an interview.

The 42-year-old actress is to renew her liaison with Bollywood by starring in 'Aa Ja Nach Le', featuring Kunal Kapoor in the lead.

During the interview, given to Mr Pranab Roy, a glowing Madhuri Dixit speaks about her life in America, her kids, her take on Bollywood and her favourite actors.

The interview is to be telecast tomorrow at 2200 hrs and repeat telecast on December 2 at 1000 hrs.

Looking fit, young and vibrant, Madhuri said she was all praise for the Khan trio -- Shah Rukh, Aamir and Salman -- the reigning superstars, with whom she paired while she was the indubitable empress of Bollywood.

''Shah Rukh Khan is full of energy and he is someone you can talk to on any topic in the world as he has a lot to say and he knows about a lot of stuff. He is not just a one-sided kind of personality, he is very rounded. He knows about everything; from computers to anything you have.

He is very intelligent and has a lot of ideas, and I like the way he comes up with all these ideas and that he is never sitting still.'' About Aamir Khan, she said she had done just two films with him and enjoyed working with the actor.

''He is a very good actor and is always energetic. Aamir is slightly different from others; he takes his time and wants to make everything sure. He is very methodic and likes to do things in his own way. So that makes him very different.'' She was also full of praises for Salman Khan.

''I have worked with Salman and he is also a good actor. You never know with him, when he is on the sets, whether he is paying attention to what you are doing, but he just carries the roles so well. When it comes to the work, he knows what he is doing.''

Asked whether she wanted to act in Hollywood, she said: ''Not really, not yet. Though, I was asked for a few projects. There was a serial called ‘West Wing’ and they had something in there. But I could not do it, because I was pregnant with my second son at that time and so I said, sorry.''

Dixit has made a much-awaited comeback to Bollywood after a five year hiatus.

Asked about kissing on screen, she quipped: ''No, No, No. And that's a personal choice. I don't know, if it's an Indian thing or not. I won't be comfortable you know. No, I don’t have anything against it. It's ok, you know. But not now...no.''

About her family and life in America, the actress said it was just wonderful. ''Everybody has dreams about what they are going to do and their ambitions and so on. For me, because we come from a big family, where we are four siblings and grew up together, family has been very important to me.

Family was a big part of my dream that I dreamt for myself. Having my own family, having kids, and stuff like that.'' She said she was living in a place where the mountains were just 90 minutes away.

''We go to the mountains and get my son to ski. My husband skies very well. So, this winter, I am thinking that I am going to learn skiing.'' To a query whether she would allow her sons to become actors, she said she would not mind.

''I wouldn't mind if my kids want to be actors, they can be actors; if they want to be doctors, they can be doctors and even if they want to do a 9 to 5 job and say I am happy doing this.'' She said her husband is ''very relaxed and very chilled out''.

''He loves sport and the outdoors and there is lot of mountain biking that we do together and we go snorkeling and we do all that kind of stuff. We don’t get to party a lot because he is on call every other day, but we still have fun with our kids when we go out.''

NDTV

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Madhuri Dixit Judges at Nach Baliye 3 - Images

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CNN-IBN contest winners to meet Madhuri Dixit

MUMBAI: CNN-IBN and IBN 7 along with their online entertainment web portal, Buzz18.com have come up with 'Aaja Nachle – Madhuri Makeover Contest'.

The initiative aims to give female viewers a chance to win a makeover by fashion designer Manish Malhotra and Subbu, the stylist who were responsible for Madhuri's look in Yash Raj's Aaja Nachle. The three finalists will also get the opportunity to meet Madhuri in person.

All the happenings will be telecast in a half-hour special, ' Main Madhuri Bana Chahati Hoon', on 1 December at 9.30 pm on IBN 7 and 3 December at 11.30 pm on CNN-IBN.

To enter the contest, one needs to answer a question – 'Who is the star of Aaja Nachle?' and send in the entry either through sms or online. 50 contestants, selected randomly from all correct entries, will be asked to complete the slogan – 'Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon because …', accompanied by their photograph and contact details. The short-listed entries will then be put up on the website along with their photographs and slogans. Viewers will then vote for their favourite contestants via Buzz18.com or through sms to 52622 and those to receive the maximum number of votes will then make it to the top. The chosen finalists will then be flown to Mumbai to receive a complete makeover.

The Madhuri Makeover Show will showcase the journey of these three contestants, their entire makeover experience and the excitement they experienced before meeting Madhuri.

"Madhuri Dixit's nation-wide popularity combined with the opportunity to be dressed by some of the top stylists is bound to make the 'Aaja Nachle Contest' a big hit! Through this initiative we hope to give our viewers a chance to experience the glitzy lifestyle of the star herself, "said CNN-IBN & IBN 7, Editor-in-Chief, Rajdeep Sardesai.

"The year's next big release - Aaja Nachle has created a buzz around the country as it heralds Madhuri Dixit's comeback to the silver screen. Our contest provides her female fan club the chance to realise their dreams of meeting the actress and experiencing what it's like to be her," added IBN 7, Managing Editor, Ashutosh.

"A contest involving one of the biggest names in Bollywood will certainly generate a great deal of interest from the viewers. We are happy to offer our advertisers the opportunity to be associated with this contest and tap into the massive exposure and excitement that it will create," stated CNN-IBN & IBN 7, National Sales Head, Sanjay Dua.

Business Of Cinema

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Madhuri Dixit unplugged on NDTV 24x7

MUMBAI: Making a comeback after a five year hiatus, Madhuri Dixit is all over the town busy promoting her upcoming Yash Raj flick, Aaja Nachle.

The actress can be caught on air in an interview with Dr. Prannoy Roy on NDTV 24x7 on 29 November at 10 pm and repeat telecast on 2 December, 10 am. Here she speaks about her life in America, her kids, her take on Bollywood, her favourite actors and a lot more.

Business Of Cinema

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Return to the Eden: comeback of Madhuri Dixit

Were Madhuri Dixit was around when the advertisement for Happy Dent was created in the campaign of lighting the palace with dental shine after eating Happy Dent the creators of the advertisement would have been in an envious position to light the whole palace with the million-dollar smile of Madhuri Dixit. Apart from the immediate registration of the brand with her dazzle small the value proposition that would have been created for the brand would have been enormous, as she is one actor who is still considered to have a smile that can light millions of hearts.

When she makes her re-launch with AAJA NACHLE, it would be probably one of the rare instances in the Hindi film industry where a heroine who left the industry at the time when her career had still not started going down the hill, is coming back again as a heroine to claim her mantle. Normally, and conventionally in the Indian set up, a heroine after her marriage when she again is besotted with the desire to dazzle the screen has to satisfy her creative urges either by graduating to maternal or sisterly roles, or has to take recourse to regional films to satisfy her image of being the lead in the female category. Not for Madhuri Dixit, as she gets the opportunity to be re-launched in the role of the main female lead and it would be a easy job for her, as it is the dance which is being used as the vehicle to promote Madhuri, which is a passion for her. Even to this day, Madhuri makes it a point to dance one hour on a daily basis.

While she has picked a slight Yankee accent in her voice, the role would suit her as she is portraying this character that comes back from her foreign sojourn to her native place to revive the dance school. In the past also there have been films made which have revolved around theme of dance, and Madhuri incidentally has been party to two of such films, one being DIL TO PAAGAL HAI and other is DEVDAS.

History has been replete with examples of films of these varieties, which have hit bull's eye whenever they have used dance as a theme contextualize it in the situation of the times. JHANAK JHANAK PAAYAL BAAJE, produced by V Shantaram is a prime example. NAACHE MAYURI made a career for Sudha Chandran only owing to her prowess for dance.



View 'Voice of India' finals Picture Gallery

However the difference in the films in which all others have acted and in AAJA NACHLE lays in the fact that AAJA NACHLE is more of a modern dance, which is a mix of the entire European feature, while all the other films, which have hit the bull's eyes, have had classical Indian dance as the key component. For the masses, and the youth of the country it is easy to identify with the dance of western variety as it has a relative ease, and also manifest from the popularity that the various dance based TV programmes prospering on multiple television channels.

May the dance of AAJA NACHLE create a new feeling for dance in the country, and encourage more number of people to adapt dance as the career as dance has now emerged as one of the most potent form to exercise all the forms of the body. The people of the country may thank Madhuri for having rekindled the passion for some, and ignited it for others.

Enkayaar, Bollywood Trade News Network

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I'm not part of the numbers game: Madhuri Dixit

Bollywood has never been very kind to comeback heroines. However, actor Madhuri Dixit, who is all set to return to the silver screen with 'Aaja Nachle', says she is not bothered about whether she will make it to the top or not.

'I have never been a part of the numbers game. We are not racing horses, who should be numbered. Either the work you do is good or bad,' Madhuri told IANS.

'I have come back not because I missed being written about or media arc lights...it's secondary. I missed my craft!' she said Tuesday while in the national capital to promote her new film.

The actress, who last appeared in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus 'Devdas', agrees that she was a little unsure about making a comeback.

'When Adi (Aditya Chopra) came up with this film the first thing I asked him was 'Is the audience still interesting in watching me?' But when I came here the way my friends in the industry and fans responded was heart warming.

'The best compliment I have received so far is 'It feels you never went away and now that you've returned don't ever go back',' said Madhuri.

The Dhak Dhak girl, as she has been fondly named, started her stint in Bollywood with 'Abodh' and gave hits like 'Tezaab', 'Dil', 'Beta', 'Khalnayak', 'Hum Aapke Hain Kaun' and 'Dil To Pagal Hai', to name some.

Asked how she felt while facing the camera after a gap of five years, Madhuri said: 'My heart was racing. I was afraid that I would forget the dialogues. Thankfully nothing of this sort happened and once the camera rolled every hesitations and fear of mine just melted.'

The versatile actress is playing the role of a choreographer called Dia in the film and feels there could have been no better launch vehicle than this one.

'This film is really close to my heart as it imparts a very important message apart from being an out an out entertainer.

'I feel we are somewhere moving away from our roots. With the onslaught of so many cultures we are forgetting our own culture. It is our treasure and we must nurture it. This film gives the same message. I couldn't have got a much better role than this one,' Madhuri said.

'I hope people will like the film as everybody has poured their hearts into it. It is made with all honesty, with no gimmicks and calculations. Nothing has been overdone because it is Madhuri Dixit's film and no one has tried to act smart,' she added.

IANS

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MF Hussain books entire theatre to watch Madhuri Dixit's Aaja Nachle

Indian artist M F Hussain, a self-confessed fan of Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, has booked an entire show of her comeback film “Aaja Nachle”, releasing in theatres in the UAE on Thursday.

The famous painter, now living here, has reserved 194 seats for the 2 pm show at Lamcy cinema on the day for special guests from all walks of life.

Madhuri had been missing from the acting scene for quite some time after her marriage to US-based surgeon Dr Sriram Nene.

Hussain said movie tickets for Aaja Nachle would act as “invites” and would have his autograph and a sketch of the Bollywood diva.

“I`ll also be exhibiting paintings of Madhuri in the foyer of the theatre. I have made these paintings based on her great hits,” he told the Khaleej Times.

“In fact, the paintings are a part of a series I have undertaken and will be exhibited sometime next year as my tribute to Bollywood, the biggest and greatest movie industry in the world.”

Hussain is currently painting a series of huge panels that depict the glorious 100 year history of Indian cinema for the exhibition titled, `from the silver silence of Dadasaheb Phalke to the golden dazzle of Madhuri Dixit`.

Dixit told the paper that she was “overwhelmed by his gesture of booking a theatre for my comeback film. I feel very flattered indeed”.

Hussain said he felt Indian cinema is a great vehicle that can truly portray and carry the message of Indian culture.

About his muse, whose blockbuster “Hum Aapke Hain Kaun” he claims to have seen 67 times, the artist said, “she is the quintessence of classical Indian beauty and womanhood. I want others to enjoy the film with me.

“It`s a tribute to not only her beauty, but also her talent as an actress.”

Zee News

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Scripting a comeback for Madhuri

All-out promotions, a big banner and Madhuri Dixit's official comeback vehicle, Aaja Nachle has every reason to be under the spotlight.

But there are speculations that the film rests too much on Madhuri but debutant director Anil Mehta says it works both ways.

"I had to face a lot of challenges, it was Madhuri, my first film and of course working with her was good and bad," said Anil Mehta, Filmmaker.

Scriptwriter Jaideep Sahni on the other hand is quite comfortable with the song and dance sequences in Bollywood especially after his last film Chak De's success.

"I have grown watching Hindi films, songs and dance are a part of our films," said Sahni.

The dancing queen makes a comeback with Aaja Nachle after a hiatus of five years.

NDTV

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Manish Malhotra Dresses Up Madhuri Again After A Decade!

Not many will know this but it was well known designer Manish Malhotra who had designed Madhuri Dixit's dresses in the Yash Raj blockbuster, 'Dil To Pagal Hai', in 1997.

Well, as they say, History repeats itself and once again it is Manish Malhotra who has designed the queen's apparels in her comeback vehicle, 'Aaja Nachle', another Yash Raj project.

A tongue-in-cheek Malhotra quipped that it was more difficult this time around because Madhuri has gone slimmer!

Planet Bollywood

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Madhuri Dixit at Voice of India Grand Finale - Images

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Madhuri and Lata Mangeshkar on one stage

Madhuri Dixit has been a Lata Mangeshkar fan for as long as she can remember. And when the Nightingale sang for the Dixit in Hum Aapke Hain Koun and Ram Lakhan, the actress felt her career had come a complete circle.

The Nightingale, generous to the core, has often said Madhuri is one of her first actresses. The two come together on one platform tomorrow for the grand finale of Star’s Voice Of India on this evening (Saturday 24 Nov) where Madhuri will be dancing and also handing over the trophy for the winner to Lataji.

Says a Star source, "Lataji and Madhuri met after ages. The warm bonding between the two is something to be seen"

Subhash K. Jha, IndiaFM

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Madhuri's word on her comeback

There she sat talking on the phone (in the Yash Raj office), the face that has launched 66 movies and million dreams turned away. The interview to some London newspaper went on forever, making the wait seem endless.

And then she hung up and turned around. Just like her Chandramukhi had done to Shah Rukh’s Devdas. The long black tresses had been replaced by golden streaked locks. If you look closely you could even spot a few wrinkles. But the smile was the same,the one that had made her the queen of hearts from Dil to Dil To Pagal Hai.

Glowing in a green printed kurti, sipping her ‘light coffee’ and ignoring the calls on her Motorola, Madhuri Dixit spoke to t2 and got us dancing to her tune... When the first theatrical trailer of Aaja Nachle came on air, it announced “Madhuri Dixit is back”.

Would you call the film a comeback?

Comeback is a very strong word. But considering the years I have been away. My last film was in 2002 (Devdas). It must make people think that Madhuri Dixit is coming back to town after being away in the US all this while. In that sense it is like coming back. But for me, it was like... I was never away. Yes, there were butterflies in the stomach on the first day of shooting but once the camera came on, it all just flowed.

Why, of all movies, did you pick Aaja Nachle to start working again?

First of all, the script attracted me. It’s very nice, written in a very realistic kind of way. It’s about theatre yet it’s very contemporary because that’s what is happening in society today. You are imbibing a new culture but you are forgetting your own roots, your own identity. The film makes a comment on that. And there are parallels with my life. I can identify with this girl coming from New York and how she takes up this mission. And, of course, there’s dance.

How was the shooting experience different from what it used to be?

It’s very different because it is so professional now. Of course, with Yashji (Chopra) it was always professional. The greatest change that I see is sync-sound. I don’t have to dub for the movie again. It’s all on location. And I remember how we used to cry earlier in dubbing studios — why can’t we do this in one go? Sometimes it used to get very difficult to recreate the magic that you have already shot for. Here now you don’t have to do that. Also, today you have all the equipment in the world. Earlier it used to take one hour to put a trolley, now it’s like this (a snap of the fingers). We have bound scripts.

What about the new bunch of actors? Do you see anything special in the likes of Kunal Kapoor and Konkona Sensharma?

They are bright, they are raring to go, very good actors all of them. They are very easy going... wonderful to talk to... very aware of everything. I had seen Konkona’s work before... Mr and Mrs Iyer and Page 3... Also, Vinay Pathak in Bheja Fry.

Turning time back, did you stop working because of marriage?

It’s funny that people think that I gave up movies because of my marriage. Because it was after my marriage that I had done Devdas. But of course when you have babies you have to take time off. I didn’t want to work when I was pregnant. I wanted to enjoy my time, spend time with my children. Aditya Chopra got in touch with me at just the right time when I was thinking that maybe now it’s time to get back to work.

Did you miss working in Bollywood as much as we missed seeing you?

No. I had a wonderful time seeing my kids grow up. Seeing them speak their first words, take their first steps...I cannot tell you how I treasure these years. Films will come, films will go. Stardom will be there, stardom will not be there. Your fans will be there, your fans will not be there but my legacy is going to be my sons.

Have your kids seen your movies?

I have two kids, one a four-and-a-half-year old and the other two-and-a-half-year old. While the elder one knows a little bit, the smaller one knows that Aaja Nachle is Mama’s film. He would take my i-phone, watch the songs, watch the trailers. At least I have two solid fans now on my side!

Just a week to go for the Aaja Nachle release. Is there any pressure at all?

There’s pressure from outside. But I can’t let that bother me. It doesn’t matter if Aaja Nachle is a hit or flop. What will matter is what kind of scripts will be offered to me after this and what kind of script I want to do at what point of time. agencies

Daily Times - Pakistan

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Madhuri: I was feeling a little rusty!

The original diva of Bollywood talks about her career, kids and forthcoming film

Are you happy to be back home?

I have always said, I am a Mumbaichi mulgi and will remain the same. As far as coming to Mumbai is concerned, it's always a delight. I have been visiting the city regularly. It's just that I was not interacting with the media or giving any interviews. It's strange, people think if I am not giving interviews I am not visiting home (laughs).

How does it feel to working after a five-year break?

Oh, it was wonderful. Initially, I was a bit apprehensive on the first day, but once I was on the sets, it was fine. I was feeling a little rusty, but after shooting for two hours, I was back in form again.

Are you apprehensive about the fact that you don't have a male lead in Aaja Nachle?

I am not nervous at all. I think the story is unique and people will appreciate my performance. We must think positive.

It seems that you agreed to take up this film because you get to play a dancer. How far is it true?

Bingo! You would have won a jackpot if this had been the question. (Giggles) Jokes apart, I think you are correct. I play Diya in Aaja Nachle, an extremely strong and independent woman. She runs away from home with her boyfriend to New York. There she realises that the person she ran away with has changed. She is a choreographer by profession. When she returns, she finds people have changed. It’s the way she fights all odds that makes Divya so special.

You look the same Madhuri Dixit even after five years. Tell us about your look in the film?

I am playing the woman who has spent 10 years abroad. She is a choreographer who struggles in a man's world kind of a thing. She's not delicate so she has to look her part throughout the movie. I think that was the biggest challenge for Manish Malhotra to match my look with the character.

So how do your kids react when they see their mom's posters all over?

I think Yashraj has gone all out to promote the film, and that's the best part about working with a prestigious production house, which takes care of everything. Whenever my kids would travel with me, they would see the poster and scream, "Mom that's you!" This time I didn't get them with me, because they have their classes.

Considering that they spend most of the time in USA with Sreeram's family, how close are they to your family?

They are close to both the families. My mom keeps travelling and they are attached to both their nanima and dadima. In fact, both my kids understand that fact that they are the two pampered members in the family. That day, my elder son was asking my mother-in-law to buy him a spaceship! He is very chalu!

Do you cook for your kids?

Yes, I do that often. In fact, I enjoy making food for them. My kids love dosas, and most of the time I try and make different kinds of dosas. They also love the typical Marathi varan bhaat and in Punjabi cuisine they love chicken tikka. So, I make sure they taste all kinds of food. By the way, Chinese cuisine is something which everyone in our family loves!

Everyone is complimenting your look. Comment.

It’s motherhood and a strong marriage that make me a complete woman. I am a working woman, but family is important too. Besides, I eat healthy, think healthy and live a healthy life. And if you can take out some time for yoga, then nothing like it.

If you ever write an autobiography, what would you like to omit?

I will never write a book on myself.

What do you do on a Sunday when you are with your kids?

I try to be just another kid and join them in their badmashi!

Ram Kamal Mukherjee, Buzz18

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Bollywood star Madhuri Dixit returns to Indian cinema after 5-year break

MUMBAI, India: Denver homemaker and mother of two sons, Madhuri Dixit is back in India's vibrant movie industry after a five-year break with a film centered around her forte — dancing.

"It makes me a little nervous whether people will accept me again," Dixit said ahead of the worldwide release of her new movie "Aaja Nachle," or "Come Let's Dance," on Nov. 30. "It makes me nervous, but I'm excited."

Dixit plays a choreographer who after a decade in New York returns to India to save her dance teacher's school from being razed for a more lucrative development.

Dixit was last seen on the big screen in 2002, when she played a courtesan in a saga of doomed love in "Devdas." After that, she took a break from acting to raise her two sons with husband Shriram Nene, a surgeon, in Denver, Colorado.

Dixit, 42, said that moving to the United States was a refreshing change from her fishbowl existence in India, where she could never walk down a street or shop at a corner store.

Her brown eyes sparkled when she laughed and said that her anonymity was short-lived due to a large presence of Indians in the United States.

South Asian parents at her son's preschool soon began to recognize her, and curious American neighbors sought DVDs of her old movies.

"It's a novelty for them to know someone famous in India because they meet other Indians who tell them, 'Oh, we are great fans, could you please get us an autograph,'" Dixit told The Associated Press in an interview in Mumbai on Thursday. "The curiosity is very positive."

Dixit said she missed her acting career at times, but not the celebrity that went with it.

"Well, I missed my craft," Dixit said. "I've never been part of the other paraphernalia that comes with it."

One of Bollywood's best known actresses, in the 1990s Dixit was ranked as the country's top actress by movie magazines.

Graceful Indian classical dancing, sizzling Western moves, and strong acting in largely romantic films were Dixit's ticket to fame.

She first danced her way to stardom in 1988 with the song "Ek, Do Teen" in the film "Tezaab," or "Acid."

Dixit went on to become India's highest paid actress with such hits as "Hum Apke Hain Kaun," or "What Am I To You," and "Dil To Pagal Hain," or "The Heart is Crazy."

Dixit, now slimmer, fitter and more radiant than in her younger days, said she is open to more movies as long as she can juggle her children's schedules with work.

With her new movie "Aaja Nachle," Dixit seeks to challenge a long-held view in Bollywood that female stars do not attract crowds after they get married and have children.

"Male chauvinism is everywhere, whether in society or in the movies," she said. "Women are fighting hard and they are trying hard to break through."

She will also challenge the Bollywood format of lead actor dominating the movies.

There is no male lead in her new movie, only a minor love angle with popular actor Akshaye Khanna.

"The film has a hero and heroine and that's Madhuri," said director Anil Mehta. "The love interest is not a major part since there are many other things she is preoccupied with."

Herald Tribune - International

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Madhuri Dixit says 'Dance With Me'

After making audience stand up and clap on her return with the title song 'Aaja Nachle' and then dance along as everyone asked her 'Show Me Your Jalwa', Madhuri Dixit is calling one and all with a cry of 'Dance With Me'.

Crooned by Sonia Saigal, this English track 'Dance With Me' is penned by Asif Ali Beg who in the past has written for films like NEAL N NIKKI, DHOOM 2 and VICTORIA NO. 203 amongst others.

A dance number choreographed with Madhuri Dixit holding center stage, 'Dance With Me' is set to showcase the Diva's prowess when it comes to Western dance format. If glimpses of the song are any indications, her fans would certain have their hands full when the film releases all over on 30th November.

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Madhuri Dixit Appeared at Nach Baliye - Images

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Madhuri Dixit Appeared in Nach Baliye 3

Madhuri Dixit, Kunal Kapoor, Konkona Sen Sharma, at Nach Baliye 3.Madhuri Dixit, the dancing sensation with a million dollar smile appeared in the episode of Nach Baliye-3 in Star Plus to dancing with the contestants.

Yes, that’s the magic of Madhuri Dixit, her name and smile itself will work wonders.

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Bollywood's Sensationl Dancer Madhuri Dixit Returns

MUMBAI: Madhuri Dixit, one of Bollywood's biggest stars whose dancing sizzled the screen for years, will play a choreographer who returns to her roots in a film marking her comeback to acting after six years.

At 42, Dixit's return is eagerly watched by an industry where men play romantic heroes well into their 50s but leading ladies start losing their appeal -- and roles -- by the time they reach 30 or get married.

Dixit's career began two decades ago and she quickly won recognition for her acting skills and nubile dancing.

Now married with two children and living in the United States, Dixit has lost none of her screen allure, says the director of her comeback film "Aaja Nachle", a musical with several dance scenes due to premiere next week.

"We thought it would take a little time for her to come back to her groove after six years but she proved us wrong," Anil Mehta told Reuters.

"She was always doing everything with perfection, a quality you associate Madhuri with."

Mehta said the actress, who began her career as a little-known model, is as nimble as ever, executing Western moves, Indian classical dancing or even raunchy Bollywood gyrations in mid-riff baring saris with ease.

The film tells the story of a passionate dancer who makes it big as a choreographer and moves to live in the United States.

She returns to India after hearing that her dance guru was on his deathbed and after he passes away, she devotes herself to saving a theatre where she learnt dancing as a child.

"It is her fight to save her roots from dying," Mehta said. "We could not think of any other actress to play the lead role of a film that had so many dance portions other than Madhuri."

Mehta said his team was so mesmerised with Dixit's dancing that all they did during post-production was watch the scenes of her dancing again and again.

"She is as graceful as she was and she is back with her best in the film," he said.

Reuters India

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A perfect chemistry of Sunidhi and Madhuri in Aaja Nachle

Aaja Nachle, which is tailor made for Madhuri who is an expert at dancing to classical with a combination of filmy matkas and jhatkas and that is exactly why this number works. The composition is the perfect mix of classical and Bollywood with a bit of a masti, Madhuri’s previous hits like Channe Ke Khet Mein (Anjaam), Baju Bandh (Prem Granth), Badi Mushkil (Lajja), Humko Aaj Kal Hai (Sailab) just to name a few. The song starts with the violin, which will easily become a signature tune for the film. Sunidhi Chauhan gets a chance to sing for Madhuri and she suits Madhuri’s voice to the tee.

Coincidentally, one of Sunidhi’s first experiences of singing on stage at a live performance was during Madhuri’s world tour, when Sunidhi was about 8 years old. It seems quite appropriate that she is singing this title track for Madhuri and Sunidhi gets the emotions and masti of the song so perfectly that her voice and Madhuri’s own ada’s match perfectly. In fact the way the line “aaja nachle nachle mere yaar tu nachle” has been sung, is the perfect invitation to get people up and dancing. Everything about this track has hit written over it and even the reprise version is different from conventional remixes, increasing the pace of the song but still keeping the composition pure.

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Madhuri Dixit's biggest gamble ever

Cinematographer-turned director Anil Mehta talks about his first film

She danced her way into our hearts with the ek do teen...number. Two decades later, this lady is still dancing her way back into our lives via cinematographer-turned filmmaker Anil Mehta's directorial debut Aaja Nachle. No wonder, the director is all praise for the actress.

Was Madhuri one of the reasons which enticed you to wield the megaphone?

Not really...(laughs). Getting into direction was never on my agenda. It was Adi (Aditya Chiopra) who suggested I should try my hands at direction while we were shooting for Veer-Zaara. I thought it was just a passing phase and Adi would forget. But he insisted and kept harping on the subject whenever we met. He used to ask what kind of subjects I would like to handle etc etc. It was then I realised Adi was serious.

How was the transition from being a cinematographer to a filmmaker?

It was a rather difficult job for me. I know even as a cinematographer, one really needs to put in his best. And it is he who actually turns a filmmaker's vision into reality on celluloid. But personally, I enjoy cimematography more than filmmaking. I need my quota of sleep at the end of the day. As a filmmaker, I could never be at peace with myself. It was quite a roller-coaster ride but with Jaideep Sahani handling the screenplay and Adi on my side, I couldn't have asked for more.

What really prompted you to zero in on Madhuri Dixit?

Could you suggest me another name? It was during one of those initial scriptwriting sessions with Adi and Jaideep when Adi just floated the idea about casting Madhuri. Incidentally, Adi had met her a week before that. So, we decided to give it a try.

Was it difficult persuading the actress for a comeback?

As far as my knowledge goes, it wasn't that difficult. Adi went to talk to her during one of her stays in Mumbai and he came back to happily announce that Madhuri had agreed to do our film. And when you've got the best, why think about anyone else? When Adi gave her an outline of the plot, Madhuri just loved it. The film sees her as a dancer. The story develops during the making of a play, an ageing actress, her director (and ex-lover) and a young actress discuss love, life, ageing and their work. That's all I can reveal at the moment.

The grapevine has it that Madhuri is not very happy with the final outcome and has even refused to participate in the promotions. How far is it true?

Even I have heard that. But the reality is that Madhuri hasn't seen the film yet. So, how can she even dislike it? Let me also inform the media that since the time Madhuri landed in Mumbai, which is day before, she has been moving around like a whirlwind promoting the film.

The film doesn't have a so-called 'male lead' and looks like it's only Madhuri who is shouldering the film. Why so?

Why not? Now, you can't blame us for treading 'a little' different path. I won't call it unconventional though. Madhuri definitely shoulders the film, but with a fantastic screenplay and an ensemble cast of actors like Raghuveer Yadav, Vinay Pathak, Ranbir Shorey, Konkona Sensharma and Kunal Kapoor to go with her, the film certainly has an extra edge over others.

Aaja Nachle comes soon after the release of films like Om Shanti Om and Saawariya which boasted of powerful music. Do you think this is the right time for the film's release?

See, I am not really worried about all this, since I don't really understand the marketing policies. I am sure Yashraj Films is capable enough to handle that bit.

The 'Jalwa' song in the film resembles shots from films like Bunty Aur Babli and Laaga Chunari Mein Daag...What's your take on this co-incidence?

There might be resemblances which are quite possible because all the three films depict small town flavours. And I am not claiming that every shot in the film is unique. But I would also like to add that even if they look similar, it wasn't done with a conscious intent .

Finally, are you satisfied the way the film has shaped up? What are your expectations from the film?

Well, I have tried to put in my best as all filmmakers do. But then, I also believe that every film takes a life of its own when it hits the theatres. I am just waiting for the audience to give the final verdict.

Jaya Biswas | Buzz18

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"I am excited about Aaja Nachle" - Madhuri Dixit

The whole nation has been missing Madhuri Dixit for too long but now that she is back we are sure that she is going to be back with a bang.

Madhuri arrived in Mumbai late on Tuesday night looking as stunning as ever and NDTV caught up with the dancing queen at the airport.

NDTV: Are you excited about Aaja Nach Le? It is a big comeback for you?

Madhuri: I am excited about Aaja Nach Le, I haven't seen the movie as yet but I want to see it. This is what we had planned that we will start the publicity 15 days before the movie's release.

NDTV: With such a big gap are there any nerves about the movie?

Madhuri: Nothing like that, every time your film releases there are lots of nerves and there are butterflies in your tummy. It is always unpredictable because you don't know what is going to happen.

NDTV: There are reports here suggesting that you have seen the initial promos of the film and you have not appreciated the film. While some say that you have seen the film and not liked it, would you like to clarify that?

Madhuri: These are just rumours. I haven't seen the movie yet and now that I am back I am going to see it. I took on this project because I felt that it had something for me and also because I had liked it and I was also excited about it. So, I am still excited and I hope that the people like the movie.

Madhuri: What did your family think of the film?

NDTV: My kids loved the song Aaja Nach Le, they have enjoyed the film and now that they see and recognise me on the screen. So they are excited and I am excited too.

NDTV

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Madhuri arrives for Aaja Nachle

Early Wednesday morning, Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport had a special passenger land in Mumbai .The original ‘Dhak Dhak’ girl of Bollywood Madhuri Dixit Nene arrived from Denver, L.A. quietly in the city with just two weeks to go for the release of her comeback vehicle Yash Raj Films’ Aaja Nachle.

The girl with the million dollar smile, who was wearing a pink salwar kameez surely did send the crowds in frenzy who were pleasantly surprised to see their very own Maharashtrian Mulgi back in Mumbai.

The actress who has come alone to promote her film would be soon joined by hubby Dr. Sriram Nene in some time.

The promos of Aaja Nachle have been doing the rounds on television, and now the Diva herself has arrived in person to ‘Show you Her Jalwa’. Gear up all you Madhuri fans, the Queen has arrived.

IndiaFM

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Madhuri Dixit returns to Mumbai

Pune, Nov 14 - Madhuri Dixit who was apparently not satisfied with her comeback film 'Aaja Nachle' will nevertheless be in Mumbai to promote it after Yash Chopra persuaded her to do so.

The actor, who lives in the US, will be in Mumbai Wednesday to attend the promotional events for 'Aaja Nachle' that releases Nov 30, Chopra said here Tuesday during a visit to accept the Zenith Asia award for his contribution to cinema at a ceremony organised by the National Films Archives of India.

Apparently, the actress felt Yash Raj Films did not deliver the promised goods and therefore refused to promote 'Aaja Nachle'.

Chopra, who gave her a makeover in his super hit 'Dil To Paagal Hai', had a tough time convincing her to change her mind.

The director said his son Aditya met Madhuri in Detroit last year and convinced her to make a comeback with their film. She accepted the offer and came to Mumbai from the US, where she lives with her husband Sriram Nene and their two children. She was in India for almost seven months to complete the film.

The actor had taken a sabbatical after 'Devdas' and will be seen in a film after five years.

Chopra, who hasn't directed any film after his cross-border love saga 'Veer-Zaara', also talked about his forthcoming venture which he plans to start in January next year.

'I don't direct too many films these days because I am short of ideas. I can only make romantic movies. I'm finalising the script for my next film. I cannot make action movies and that is why Yash Raj produces movies made by young and talented directors,' Chopra told IANS.

He is also looking forward to Yash Raj Films animation movie 'Road Side Romeo', which is being made in collaboration with Walt Disney. Chopra doesn't want to compromise on quality and has allocated a huge budget for the film, which is expected to release sometime in June next year.

He said: 'For the first time, we have an Indian animation movie with the quality of Disney animation.'

Earthtimes.org/IANS

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Madhuri Makeover Contest

Your Chance To Meet Madhuri and Look Like Her Too

That's right, if you are lucky you will be flown to Mumbai and given a makeover by the same experts who have created Madhuri's dazzling looks in Aaja Nachle. All of that and a chance to get up, close and personal with Madhuri herself. What's more? If you can't take part, nominate the women you know by leaving their contact details below. But before that, simply answer this question to enter this contest.

Click Here

Source: Buzz18

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Bollywood's all-time best dancer is back.

Madhuri Dixit returns this month with Aaja Nachle, and we thought it was about time we celebrated the finest dance numbers.

Lots has happened to the filmi dance floor over the years: Sridevi, Aishwarya Rai, Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan, Govinda... many have come and completely revamped Bollywood dancing.

Now we ask you, dear reader, which is Bollywood's all-time best dance number? Tell us your comment

Rediff News

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"I totally miss celebrating Diwali in Mumbai" - Madhuri Dixit

Madhuri Dixit, who absolutely loves Diwali says she pines for the crackers, the lights, and all the fun associated with it in Mumbai

“I love all festivals. Barring Holi, I try and celebrate all festivals, which even includes Onam and Baisakhi! I am a God loving person and I love attending poojas.

Diwali used to be loads of fun in childhood. The entire process leading up to Diwali, of spring cleaning, making savouries and other preparations used to be so much fun. There would be festive air all over the place and the aroma of chaklis and chivdas being made still makes me nostalgic. We as children used to visit houses
Diwali was so special during childhood because it was associated with the diwali vacation too. Diwali simply suggests unbounded joy and everything new.

I totally miss celebrating Diwali in Mumbai. Bursting crackers, meeting people, and even that ambience is so sorely missed by me. We do celebrate Diwali here, but it is obviously not like back home. We don’t even get crackers here in Denver! We try and make up for the lack of the atmosphere in Mumbai by wearing nice traditional clothes and having lot of sweets.

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Madhuri Dixit will woo audiences in her comeback vehicle, Aaja Nachle

MUMBAI: The Deepika-Ranbir-Sonam dust is just settling down. Come 30 November and the original Bollywood diva is all set to storm her way back.

After a 5-year hiatus, Madhuri Dixit will woo audiences in her comeback vehicle, the Yash Raj Film (YRF) Aaja Nachle.

A lot is at stake both for the actress and the production house, Barring the successful Chak De, YRF has not done too well in 2007.

As for Madhuri, her last release Devdas did well at the box office but the 5-year gap is a long one and to re-claim lost ground she will have to walk the extra mile.

For Aaja Nachle, she has worked hard at knocking off weight that she had accumulated post motherhood. And the hard work shows. She looks like a million bucks in the hoardings and in the trailers.

The theatrical trailers of the film were launched with Laaga Chunari Mein Daag and the teaser was released as early as with Chak de. Her star power is enormous and this is what the banner will be banking on.

The blogging community is gung-ho about her comeback. Eagerly awaiting the film's release most of them write they are positively going to catch the film in a theatre.

Talking about her charisma is her Aaja Nachle co-star Divya Dutta. "Looking at her one never felt she had ever gone away. She is the most talented actor in the industry and when one sees her perform she is just super. I was just watching the promos and she looks fantastic. She may have aged biologically but she looks as gorgeous as ever. We had a great time together - cracking jokes, playing dumb charades. When I watched her perform I didn't feel she had been away for 5 years. She is as exuberant as ever."

Roping in current favourite Vaibhavi Merchant to design the choreography will add a touch of novelty as Madhuri has more than often jived to Saroj Khan's dance moves.

Trade pundits predict that the masses will flock to theatres to have a dekko at their one-time-favourite actress. And this is good news for the film.

YRF spokesperson Monika Bhattacharya says, "The response to the promos has been very good right from the teaser stage."

As her fans await her return, this time around Madhuri may be as anxious as she was with her maiden film. After all she does not want Aaja Nachle to be her swan song.

IndianTelevision.Com

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Whatever happened to Madhuri's comeback vehicle ?

A month back there was a lot of fanfare around Madhuri Dixit's comeback film AAJA NACHLE. Now it is barely a fortnight to go for the film's release and there is absolutely no buzz in the film's promotion.

Yash Raj Films' principle / strategy of under promoting their films is all fine but somehow for a project like AAJA NACHLE, a much better plan was the need of the hour.

With OM SHANTI OM and SAAWARIYA hogging all the limelight, JAB WE MET and BHOOL BHULAIYAA still going strong and GOAL & DUS KAHANIYAAN looking terrific, there hardly seems to be any built up towards the 23rd November release of AAJA NACHLE.

Now would there be some increment in heat for the film in days to come before December releases like Aamir Khan's TAARE ZAMEEN PAR and Akshay Kumar's WELCOME take center stage?

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

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