Jo Ishq Ki Marzi Woh Rab Ki Marzi finally to launch..

Sagar Arts and Sahara One's show Jo Ishq Ki Marzi Woh Rab Ki Marzi is all set to go on air in March. The show was supposed to go on air in November, but due to strike the dates had been postponed.

"The show is going on air in the first or second week of March. Though we are still deciding on the dates, the shooting has been resumed," says Shakti Sagar, one of the Series Directors of Sagar Arts.

The look of the show is grand and opulent and focuses on the lifestyle of the zamindars in that era. The story is about two zamindar families who turn from friends to foes, and there blooms the love story of Sumer and Sunaina amidst all the hatred. Neil Bhatt and Neha Marda are the lead pair in the show.

As per our khabroo, "The show will go on air in the second week of March, tentatively on 9th of the same month."

The show will be aired from Monday to Friday at 8:30 pm.

Daljeet Kaur and Shaleen sizzle on stage...

Daljeet Kaur and Shaleen Bhanot share a superb on screen as well as off screen chemistry!!

We are here talking about off screen chemistry because they both share their birthday which falls on November 15th… Many of their attributes are similar and this is why they get along so well like a house on fire, so much so that there is a buzz that they are a couple.

The cute Daljeet is not unfamiliar at all with this buzz as she says, “Almost everyone asks me if I am seeing him. But the truth is that I am not!!”. Daljeet clarifies that, “I think we have similar planetary position or something which makes us so alike. It can be really scary because a lot of times I start a sentence and he ends it!”

Well, in Sahara One’s Saas V/s Bahu today, they together create magic as they so very elegantly perform on ‘Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai’ number and what more, as they get applauded by the judges for their performance!!

This is one Jodi that is really ‘Bindaas’!!!

Saas V/s. Bahu - Kaun Kisse Nachayega...

It couldn’t get better than this! Truly, the stage on Indian Television is set for the biggest and the largest reality show ever. They say, Siachen is the world’s highest battlefield under extreme conditions but Saas V/S Bahu will draw a parallel war zone right on your television screens by taking the eternal arch rivalry between them to the highest domain. Keeping the fighting spirit alive and taking it to the the next level of enemity, Saas V/S Bahu promises all the Saas and Bahu’s, dead or alive that the tashan between them can cross all limits and break all barriers to finally prove their supremacy over one another. Coming out of the kitchen politics and the battle for reigning supremacy on the house, Saas and Bahu’s will now take a unusual floor test by challenging each other on the….hold your breath….a dance floor. This August 25, SaharaOne and Swastik Pictures is set to unveil some very famous television personalities who have made their mark as successful actors and are also talented dancers! Dancing is one such talent that most people wish, they command for the mere joy of expressing poetic rhythm in music! Get ready to meet some of your favorite celebrities on a show that’ll let people live this desire.

SaharaOne Television will provide a platform to artistes across the television soaps who will prove their mettle as determined dancers after being successful actors for a long time! Viewers will now be treated to performances by the popular television Saasumaa’s and Bahu’s where they get together to challenge each other on the dance floor and take the rivalry further. This reality show will offer viewers much beyond just the dance between the competing teams of Saas and Bahu’s and will engage upon identifying the best Bahu and the talented Saas of Indian Television. While most of the shows stress upon the chemistry between the Saas and Bahu, SaharaOne’s reality show Saas V/S Bahu will engross viewers in understanding the matrix of actually being a Saas and a bahu.

Commenting on her association with the first big venture, Business Head of SaharaOne Television, Ms. Nilanjana Purkayestha said, “The key to any reality show is the concept, the premise that gives the audience a reason to watch. While conceiving of a reality show we were pretty sure that it was not going to be just another of those song – and – dance shows where TV stars get together and shake a leg. The premise of Saas – Bahu conflict has become so deeply rooted in our audience’s psyche that it has become a genre of its own – “ The Saas – Bahu drama”! We thought why not take this premise, this conflict to the next level and settle the debate once and for all. Our show Saas V/S Bahu combines the best of fiction with the best of reality. While the dance floor is the ‘Karamyudh’, each team has at stake not only its reputation but is also fighting for honour of every Saas and Bahu who are rooting for them. As a show we hope to ignite passions in every living room, unite the family in debating the great Saas – Bahu divide and most of all, entertain the young and old with great dancing and drama every weeknight in the weeks to come.”

Two teams, each comprising of 15 Saas and 15 Bahu’s will be challenging each other by rolling out power-packed dance performances for five days a week and will be judged by a team of 2 juries consisting of some big names in the entertainment industry. A set resembling the ‘angaan’ of a house will allow these 2 teams of Saas and Bahu’s to call each of their on-screen family member to compete and be their saviour if they lag behind in the scores in a particular week. Saas v/s Bahu will follow a unique voting procedure and to keep the voting system totally fair and aboveboard the elimination will be the result of the judges points combined with those of the Live Studio Audience. This live studio audience in the form of real life Saas and Bahu’s will be playing a crucial role in the show by acting as the fourth jury or the third umpire as they say in cricketing terms and who’s votes combined with the team of 2 juries will finally decide the scores of the respective Saas and Bahu teams.

SAAS V/S BAHU will be produced by Swastik Pictures, who has recently produced the popular fiction show ‘MATA KI CHOWKI’ on SaharaOne Television.

'Kaisi Laagi Lagan' on Sahara One...

Sahara One and Cinevistas are coming up with a new serial ‘Intehaa Pyaar Ki…Kaisi Laagi Lagan’. The show is set to go on floors from 25th August.

According to our well-placed source, “This will be a college-based theme which will go on to be a cursed love story. The serial will be a daily from Monday to Friday, but the time slot has not been finalized yet”.

Speaking on the star cast, our source informs us “The cast includes a bunch of youngsters – Priyamvada Sawant who was earlier seen in Meri Doli Tere Angna, Romanchak, Mahi Vij the girl in DJ Akhil’s music video ‘Tu Hai Wohi’ and a newcomer Kaushik”.

The serial is slated to be launched in September…

TIMES NOW brings the Battle in Beijing to your living rooms!!

Ten thousand, five hundred athletes. Three hundred and two events in twenty eight sports, twenty one thousand eight hundred and eighty one torchbearers; All moving towards the same dream of making their country proud at the world’s largest sporting event: the Olympics. This year, TIMES NOW has introduced several initiatives to capture the spirit of the 29th Olympiad.

One of the key initiatives taken by TIMES NOW is to launch a focused show hosted by Charu Sharma on the 2008 Olympics – ‘GoldFest’. Expressing his enthusiasm, Charu Sharma said, “The Olympics is the mecca of all sport, and as a sports buff I couldn’t have asked for anything more. TIMES NOW’s initiative for comprehensive coverage of the Olympics ensures that Beijing Games receive the attention and prominence they deserve. Along with that, the analysis by our experts help in giving an all round perspective.”

The show reflects the nail biting excitement that surrounds the sporting event with reports from the venue,analysis by guests like former athletics star Ashwani Nachappa and world renowned shooter Morad Ali Khan, interviews with the Indian contingents, Olympics trivia, moments of the day and lots more. The show also offers the viewers a chance to exhibit their enthusiasm by participating in various quizzes and contest related to the current and past Olympiad Games. ‘Goldfest’ kicks off on August 7 and will be aired every night at 10:30 pm till the end of the Olympics, August 24.

Speaking on the unique initiative to provide comprehensive coverage of the Olympics, Arnab Goswami, Editor-in-Chief, TIMES NOW said, “As a channel, we have always given precedence to an event that impacts our audiences, irrespective of whether it is being held in India or elsewhere. The 2008 Olympics is a benchmark in history and with a prominent Indian presence at the games this year, TIMES NOW viewers have an opportunity to catch all the action from Beijing.”

TIMES NOW will also host an Olympics special in its comprehensive sports show ‘The Game’ with Boria Majumdar and incorporate regular updates on the Olympics as a part of their daily news bulletins to keep the viewers constantly updated about the latest happenings. Commenting on his involvement with TIMES NOW, Boria Majumdar said, “Olympics is the biggest spectacle in the world and I am really excited that it is taking place in Asia after such a long time. I truly appreciate TIMES NOW’s initiative for giving attention to a significant global event in a country that has focused entirely on cricket.”

So Tune into TIMES NOW to catch all the news, action and excitement of the 2008 Olympics.

Vande Mataram!

“At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new…India discovers herself again”.
- Jawaharlal Nehru

These are the words of our first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on Indian Independence Day, 1947. Now after 61 years we are celebrating the joy of our Freedom, with the same zest and enthusiasm!

But what exactly does Independence mean to us?? After 61 years of free-life, where do we stand?? The onus and responsibility lies on us to protect the motherland for which many have laid their lives…Let’s thank all those who have given their blood and soul for the motherland and Salute all the Martyrs and Leaders who had the dream to live in Independent India!

15th August signifies hope of an India where unity and peace will continue to prevail .On this, Television Stars shared their views...

Alok Nath:

The one thing that makes you proud to be an Indian: I feel that people like Abhinav Bindra make me proud to be an Indian.

The biggest threat to India and its unity, according to you: The pathetic politicians are a threat to India and its unity.

Your favorite leader in today’s era: Well what leaders? Who are they? I don’t see any leaders. I feel true leaders are people like Narayan Murthy, Ambani brothers and many others who have taken the nation a step ahead.

Message on Independence Day: I feel that Independence is sacred. In jungles animals have all the independence but it is very unfortunate that people are bound with laws and restrictions. In these restrictions one has to find independence. Let’s make this world a better place to be in.

****

Sudha Shivpuri:

The one thing that makes you proud to be an Indian: I feel that from the time we got independence till now, every field has progressed a lot. The conditions of women have seen a drastic change and I am happy about this.

The biggest threat to India and its unity, according to you: The endless personal fights that happen on issues regarding caste and creed is very bad. Everyone has a position to hold in life and people who are in a higher position in society should take their job more seriously.

Your favorite leader in today’s era: I don’t think I can name one, sabi hi mere favorite hai i.e. all are my favorite. I like Sonia Gandhi . I really like her because she is one female who has got Congress to the forefront.

Message on Independence Day: I feel that we need to understand and value the sacrifice of our leaders for the nation. We should always be united and never get into personal fights.

****

Rahul Vaidya:

The one thing that makes you proud to be an Indian: I feel the love that people have towards each other and the sprit with which all the festivals are celebrated in this country is incredible.

The biggest threat to India and its unity, according to you: The ones who always try to divide people on the basis of caste and creed..

Your favorite leader in today’s era: My favorite leader is Rahul Gandhi without any doubt.

Message on Independence Day: I feel that each individual should do something that makes India proud. Like in sports Abhinav Bindra has made India proud; in the same way I feel that in each field some one should do something so that India is proud of that individual.

****

Aamir Ali:

The one thing that makes you proud to be an Indian: I think that there are lots of things that make me feel proud and can’t state one. Things like the way we adapt to various culture and the way we are growing as a nation makes me feel proud. I feel that every country has certain bad points and India is no exception. But leaving that aside, I would say that I am a hard core Indian!!

The biggest threat to India and its unity, according to you: I think it is dirty politics that screw up a lot of things. Just to get a vote bank, some people divide people on the basis of cast or creed which is very dangerous..

Your favorite leader in today’s era: I like Umar Abdullah for his honesty and Laloo Prasad Yadav for his smartness. Before I used to find Laloo ji funny and then I found him amazing and in couple of years I realized that he is a smart person who can turn losses into profits.

Message on Independence Day: Never think of dividing this country on the basis of caste, creed and culture. Just enjoy your freedom and live a happy life.

****

Jayati Bhatia:

The one thing that makes you proud to be an Indian: I think I am born in this country and I am brought up the way I was. I feel that today my country is on a threshold where I see some of the younger generation having cigarettes and on the other hand, I also see some going to places of worship. I am seeing an amalgamation of both modern and traditional.

The biggest threat to India and its unity, according to you: Population and lack of education are the biggest threats to India's unity.

Your favorite leader in today’s era: I am totally and absolutely excited about Rahul Gandhi and Sachin Pilot.

Message on Independence Day: I think Independence for me is something where I want to express my views on Getting rid of pretence and show-off is what people should do! I feel most of us speak only in our houses, now its the time to go out and talk about your views.

****

Dimple Jhangiani:

The one thing that makes you proud to be an Indian: I feel that India is very rich in culture. People live with unity and are always together.

The biggest threat to India and its unity, according to you: Westernization which might change Indian culture is the biggest threat..

Your favorite leader in today’s era: I can’t name any as I don't like any one. Everything is now full of corruption.

Message on Independence Day: Happy Independence Day!! Let’s stop corruption and be loyal to our nation!!

Solhah Singaarr to bid adieu!

Jai Productions’ Solhah Singaarr on Sahara One is to go off-air on August 22nd to make way for the Ultimate Clash – Saas V/s Bahu, the very first daily reality show!

Will Shagun emerge victorious in her battle? A well-placed source from the sets informs us, “After Ekta Sharma’s track gets over, the final and the very important track will be laid out between the main protagonists – Sumer, Shagun and Triveni. A major twist, the details of which cannot be disclosed will see Sumer (Sachin Tyagi) in the threshold of death! The manner in which he survives and pushes out all negativities from his house will be the dramatic climax. The serial will have a happy ending where Sumer and Shagun unite with the blessings of all elders”.

So all’s well that ends well in Sahara One’s Solhah Singaarr…

TIMES NOW announces the launch of 'No Full Stops'

Have you ever felt the need to relax your mind but didn’t know how? Have you ever looked for ways to stay fit but didn’t know where to start? Hold on! ‘No Full Stops’, a new wellness show by TIMES NOW is the answer to all your questions. In the fast paced world of today, every person is under pressure to perform better. At this juncture, we require simpler ways to access happiness and satisfaction in life. ‘No Full Stops!’ is the right medium which gives us solutions on how to cope with everyday stress. It helps one live life in a better way by enjoying good health through different forms like dance, games, yoga, martial arts and others.

With an energetic and refreshingly charming anchor, Teejay Sidhu doing the honours, the show couldn’t be better. The anchor, who is a graduate from the University of British Columbia doesn’t drink or smoke and gets her relaxation from meditation and praying. The show adds a new dimension to the life of an urbane viewer. This show is also for people, who want to live a positive lifestyle, by adopting health tips and insights to experience a feel good factor in them. Many feel intimidated, to go to a spa or a gym or they don’t have the time to go, this show is the right place for them.

The show ‘No Full Stops!’ Is a 13 - part series, one- stop show on wellness for the young, busy and the bored. The show is meant for everyone, who wishes to break away from the monotony of life and indulge in pampering oneself through ‘accessible wellness, something which everyone can incorporate in the daily humdrum of existence. People would halt, sit back and feel this is a show finally, which would cater to their interest level and urge them to feel better about themselves. Arnab Goswami, Editor – in chief, TIMES NOW says,’Wellness is not just a state of mind today, but contemporary India wants to know more about it. ‘No Full Stops’ is just a step towards that. The show will arm the people with tips to achieve wellness amongst the not so good situation in todays life’ The show emphasizes and takes one through ways of de-stressing oneself, balancing ones physical, mental and spiritual needs and areas that are integral to looking after oneself. The viewer here have their choice, can identify a wellbeing issue and find a range of solutions given to it.

Every episode of the show, ‘No Full Stops!’ delves into something diverse and fresh. Episode 1 takes one through the world of dance which could do wonders to unwind and relax the mind and body. It also gives tips on how a little bit of fun could go a long way in adding spunk to ones mundane routine. The show promises to be youthful and full of energy.

The show thus gives a holistic approach to physical, mental and spiritual wellness. Every episode aims to bring a difference in people’s life. So tune into TIMES NOW, to give your life a new twist and get a weekly dose of health tips and insights to make a real difference in your life. The show will be shown on Saturdays at 7.30 PM and on Sunday at 12.30 and 6.30 PM..

It's the Ultimate Clash of Saas-Bahu on Sahara One

Saas-Bahus are known for their ‘Tu Tu Main Main’, but Sahara One’s Saas V/s Bahu produced by Swastik Productions will see them burning the dance floor for the very first time!! The show will be the first-ever reality show to be aired from Monday to Friday, and will see 15 Saas-Bahu Jodis getting together. The show is slated to go on air from the end of this month in a prime time slot.

Here is Telly Buzz giving you a list of the finalized Jodis…

Shoma Anand was reported to be paired with Shilpa Shinde, but she will now be seen with her Bahu from ‘Bhabhi’, Rucha Gujrathi (who was to be seen with Neelu Kohli earlier). Jayati Bhatia who was earlier to be paired with Simone Singh will now be seen with Chavi Mithal, while Krutika Desai who was paired with Chavi will now dance with Shoumya Tandon. Apart from these, the two new couples added to the list recently are Vaishnavi-Jasveer Kaur and Kitu Gidwani-Daljeet Kaur.

The other participants in the show include Neelam Mehra-Reena Kapoor, Kamalika Guha-Shilpa Saklani, Pratichi Mishra-Aanchal Dwivedi, Jaya Bhattacharya-Ritu Choudhury, Himani Shivpuri-Lataa Saberwal, Ketaki Dave-Tuhinaa Vohra, Kishori Shahane-Kirti Kelkar, Seema Kapoor-Preethi Puri.

Ashita Dhawan who was to dance with Vibha Chibber has now opted out of this show as she is part of Star One’s Zara Nach Ke Dikha.

According to our well-placed source, “The production house is looking for an anchor who is known as a good ‘Beta’ to his on screen mother and a good ‘Pati’ to his wife. The idea is to get an anchor who will balance it out well between the Saas and the Bahu”. Adding on, our source informs us, “Rajesh Kumar of Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai fame and Shaleen Bhanot have been approached for the anchor’s spot. But nothing has been finalized yet. Also, the judges on the show will most probably be well-known faces from Bollywood”.

Last but not the least, our source tell us that, “Longi, the very popular choreographer of Shweta Salve in the first season and Sonali Kulkarni in the second season of Sony’s Jhalak Dikhla Jaa will be the choreo here who will make the saas and the bahus to dance to his tune!!”If Sources are to be believed then Solah Singgar might be replaced by Saas Vs Bahu!

So here’s wishing all the Saas and Bahus a very happy time here!!

Snehal Sahay to quit Woh Rehne Wali

One of the long running shows of Sahara One Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki will be taking a time leap wherein Rani, the adopted daughter of Pari aka Reena Kapoor will play the main protagonist.

Following the foot steps of Reena Kapoor who has decided to opt out of the show is Snehal Sahay, who plays the character of Dolly. “It is true that I am leaving the show. It has been a wonderful experience being part of this show. I must say that I have played various shades; when I started, my character was comic, later it got negative and then turned a positive shade and now I am playing a business tycoon”, says Snehal.

When asked the reason to quit a popular show as this, the actress quips, “I am just over 22 years and I am too young to play a forty year old”.

Talking about her new projects, Snehal says, “I have been approached by BAG for a weekly show. Let’s see what happens!!”

The new face to television, Neha Janpandit will be playing the role of Rani post leap and if the buzz is to be believed, there will be a parallel lead named Shikha who will be Rani’s first cousin. The leap is to take place in the next 10 days, informs our source.

Kalyug Mein Bhakti Ki Shakti

The Hindu shastras call this the age of Kalyug; an era where evil prevails over good and humanity seems to have lost all moral values & spirituality. Starting Monday, 9th June, ‘MATA KI CHOWKI’, from the SaharaOne stable will embark on a journey of the restitution of goodwill. The story revolves around Vaishnavi, an orphan girl who is found by the Pandit couple of Vaishno Devi shrine who are childless even after nine years of marriage.

As the story progresses, Vaishnavi develops immense interest and faith in Mata Vaishno Devi. She is popularly called “Katra Ki Beti” since she’s actively involved in preaching about Mata, sings Jagrata, motivates people to follow preachings of Mata and rescues people from pain and misery, all of which are seen as miracles by the masses. The story takes a drastic turn when her fate lands her on an unexpected path of life. In an unprecedented turn of events, Vaishnavi marries in to an house where she has to negotiate against all the evil misdeeds of her in - laws, in order to protect her loved ones.

Disaster after disaster seems to strike her life – being blamed for her mother’s early demise; taking on her younger sister’s responsibility by marrying a man who doesn’t love her in order to save her father’s pride & honor; horrified by the dark deeds and ills prevailing in big cities; and finally, threatened with becoming a martyr to fulfill someone’s greed. Her faith in Mata sees her sail through every possible hurdle that life throws at her while at the same time her good deeds towards enlightening the masses raises her divine personality amongst them. The journey of Vaishnavi in the enlightened path of Mata will go on forever and ever, even though she has to take another birth.



Says Nilanjana Purkayestha, Business Head, SaharaOne Television,“In today’s times of inhumanity,we often wonder where has god gone. The story of Mata Ki Chowki shows us how god is there in each one of us. If we have faith then god and god’s love will become apparent to us. Mata Ki Chowki is as much about Mata who lives in our hearts and always shows us the righteous path, as about Vaishnavi who adores Mata and follows her path righteously, even in these days of Kalyug. It is our endeavour, in our own small way, to rekindle faith in god and re-learn what we have always known – that no harm will come to those who follow the path of god, the path of right. A show like Mata Ki Chowki, that brings us the teachings of our scriptures tailored to our current social scenario, is very important and relevant in today’s times.”


Produced by Swastik Pictures, MATA KI CHOWKI has an spectacular star cast like actors Mona Ambegaonkar, Sudesh Berry, Usha Bacchani, Sheela Sharma and Bina. The lead character of VAISHNAVI will be essayed by the very innocent and beautiful Muskan Arora while the divine role of Mata Vaishno Devi is essayed by the southern superstar Shanti Priya.
Will the battle between good and evil make or change Vaishnavi’s destiny… and at what cost?


Watch “MATA KI CHOWKI”

Starting Monday, 9TH June, Every Monday – Friday, 10.30 p.m, only on SaharaOne Television.

Natasha Grover to enter Ajai Sinha's Ghar Ek Sapna..

Biggest Loser Jeetega, one of the most popular reality show on Sahara One with a unique concept of losing weight, has a star born out of it. Natasha Grover, the runner up of the realty not only gained immense popularity by losing a massive amount of weight but also bagged a role in Sahara One’s popular show Ghar Ek Sapna.

Talking about her debut in television, Natasha says, “It’s a dream come true for me. When I started out with Biggest Loser Jeetega, I was nearly 100 kilos, and I never thought I would be able to make it in this industry.” Giving an insight on her character in Ajai Sinha's serial, Natasha adds, “I play the role of Dr. Roshni in Ghar Ek Sapna. She has studied overseas yet has Indian values instilled in her. She is very emotional but at the same time is very professional when it comes to her work. She has come especially for the treatment of Trisha. I will be playing the love interest of Darshan Dave in the serial, but there is a twist to the tale here. Unfortunately, I cannot reveal anything right now".

Natasha is on a high getting her first break with such a talented director as she says, “It is an amazing experience for me to start my television career with such Ajai Sinha. I am very fortunate to get such an opportunity, but I am still in the learning stage. Currently, I am experimenting with my roles. But, I love the feeling of being in front of the camera, it gives a certain high.”

Will Omi And Heer will ever come together in Meri Sasural

It has been rightly said, when one is in the army, he is married to the country. Army life is most unpredictable and this is exactly what Sahara One’s Mera Sasural depicts wherein the protagonist Darshan Dave, who plays an army officer Omi faces when he has to leave his soul mate Heer, on the day of marriage as the country
calls him.

Explaining the twist in the tale, Darshan Dave says, "Actually Omi is an army officer and some terrorists catch him in Pakistan. While there, he loses his memory and lives with a different family. Sometimes he gets flashes of his past and is sure he has a past that he has forgotten. Today Omi and Heer fortunately come together at a religious place. There are some beautiful scenes of hit and miss!" So will Heer and Omi meet or will they miss each other yet again and will Omi remember that Heer is the one whom he loves? To which Darshan replies, "that is what the audience needs to wait and watch."

When asked the naughty and mischievous Darshan Dave if he regains his memory anytime soon, he laughs and replies, "Right now the serial is doing very well as far asthe TRPs go, due to my memory loss. So I won’t regain my memory at least for the next few upcoming episodes".

Veteran actor Sudhir Pandey, who plays the head of the family, commenting on this latest story track says, "Actually my son Omi stays with a family in Pakistan and has lost his memory. The family that he stays with comes at the same religious place of Jhande wali Mata in Jammu.
Fortunately, my family also goes at the same place to pray for our son. I have organized a Jagrata today, hence I sing religious songs, and since Omi is my son, he faintly remembers his dad’s voice i.e. my voice. So the drama today is how Heer and Omi miss each other every
time". But, do they meet? "Yeah, surely they do, but not right now", replies an optimistic Sudhir Pandey.

Well, life sure has a lot of tough surprises in store for the couple!!!

Author and Reporter: Binita Ramchandani

'My role has shades of Big B of seventies' - Gaurav Chopra

Gaurav Chopra has entered Sahara One’s Solhah Singaar recently where he plays a negative character Shiv Chopra, who is out to ruin Shagun's(Akangsha Ranawat) family. Her father-in-law had ruined his mother's life; hence he is out to seek revenge.

Accordingly, he seeks out Shagun who is sent to jail by her husband Sumer (Sachin Tyagi) on suspicion of murdering her brother-in-law. He gets her out of prison and gives her shelter as well. Both conspire to have the family thrown out from their house and take charge of business too. But it soon emerges that Shagun has not turned bad but is trying to protect her in-laws from Shiv's wrath. He not only wants to destroy them financially, but kill them as well. As it happens with all dailies soap, there will soon emerge a love triangle between Shagun, Shiv and Sumer. Shiv is already beginning to have feelings for her.

However Gaurav does not call his character negative. “He is an angry young man who wants to avenge the wrong done to his mother. I would say it has shades of the Big B of the seventies”, says Gaurav. He goes on, "I agree its not a different role, but i have attempted to play it as diffrently as possible. You will actually want to sympathize with him".

Besides this Sahara One show and Left Right Left, Gaurav also has an important international project (he had earlier acted Blood Diamond) lined up. "It’s too early to say anything. The moment any thing concrete emerges you will be the first to know”, he ends.

Ankur Nayyar replaces Ujjwal Rana In Ghar Ek Sapna

Ujjwal Rana, Samman of Ghar Ek Sapna has decided to call it quits due to creative differences between him and the producer. He is being replaced by Ankur Nayyar(seen in Kasauti Zindagi Kay and Left Right Left).

Although Ujjwal Rana is leaving the show by choice he is quite disappointed about leaving as he says, “I made the decision of leaving the serial with a very heavy heart. I had come to love the role I was playing and the audience had accepted me as Samman. For an actor there is nothing more than appreciation. I will definitely miss working in Ghar Ek Sapna but sometimes difficult decisions need to be made as an actor.” If Ujjwal was so comfortable with the role what prompted the decision for him to quit? Ujjwal says, “I was quite satisfied with the role as well as the script when the show started as the character was quite strong. But as time went by, few changes were made to the script changing the storyline completely. I wasn’t entirely happy with this change and voiced my opinion to the director but nothing was done about it. Hence I decided to quit the show.”

And is Ujjwal happy about Ankur replacing him? Does he think Ankur will do justice to the role of Samman? “It isn’t my place to comment on another actor’s ability and how the other person will portray a particular role. It was the production house’s decision to take me and now Ankur to play Samman.” says Ujjwal.

Ankur Nayyar confirms the news saying,“Yes I am replacing Ujjwal Rana in Ghar Ek Sapna. The audience will see me playing the character of Samman henceforth.” So does that mean there will be a change in the character too? “No”, says Ankur, “The character will not change. It’s only a replacement. The only difference will be the way in which the role will be essayed. Ujjwal performed differently, so will I and I will try and do justice to the role.”

Ujjwal Rana had been playing the role of Samman for quite some time and the audience had accepted his persona, so will Ankur have a problem getting the viewers' appreciation for filling into shoes of Ujjwal? “It is challenging to replace someone whom the audience is familiar with for such a long time but the production house has the confidence that I can pull it off. And I think life is full of challenges and that we have to face as they come”, replies Ankur.

So let's hope Ankur Nayyar will enthrall the audience just as Ujjwal Rana did as Samman!!!

A Recap of 2007 Television

Even a decade ago, no one could have thought of writing an annual sum-up article on the television industry, which was limited to a Doordarshan and the odd Zee TV and Star World. Not only was acting in television industry considered to be the last resort of a wannabe star, but also like an old-age home for ageing, almost-retired stars.

Today not only are reams of newsprint used to let everyone know about the goings-on in the industry, you even have television production companies listed on the bourses. The year 2007 only contributed to making the position of the television industry stronger in India. New channels were launched, senior executives were poached from competitor channels and innumerable makeovers and transformations happened.

Here's a recap of what happened in the big world of the small screen.

The Return of Reality Shows:

If there was one phenomenon that marked the television world in India in 2007, it was the return of the reality shows with a bang. 2006 saw a steady decline in the interest in reality shows, main reason being the winners getting lost in the crowds. Though the Big Boss drama did manage to generate some interest, it was not enough to overtake the serials.

That is what Sa Re Ga Ma Pa managed to do in 2007. So much was the interest generated in this reality show that the audience preferred watching it over Kyun Ki…a serial that has been on top of the TRP charts for the last six years! But what was different in this year's shows that helped it overcome 'epics' like Kyun Ki? Nothing - except the fact that there was an overdose of them. If Zee had Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, Star came up with Voice of India, not to forget Indian Idol from Sony, which meant, even if you wanted to watch something else, you had little option but to lend your attention to these shows. Plus, there is also no denying the fact that the quality of singing improved amongst the contestants, thereby leading to more interest.

Last, but definitely not the least, the cell phone companies and other sponsors also let loose their purse strings to ensure enough publicity and media hype over the contestants. With the Chhote Ustaads also in play now, very soon you will see parents wanting their kids to become singers akin to the craze of becoming cricketers today!

The unnatural death of serials:

Not every year sees so many mega serials being launched on television. The first half of 2007 saw a plethora of serials being launched, only to be taken off air within a few months. In an age when any serial worth its salt completes 1000 episodes, a run for a few months is nothing short of a mega-flop.

Take Kulvadhu for instance. Launched amidst a lot of hype and hoopla and armed with biggies like Milind Gunanji, Kitu Gidwani, Kulvadhu was Anuj Saxena's (Maverik Productions) first television venture. But it died an unnatural death due to low TRPs. Same was the story for Rishton Ki Dor, Kabhi To Nazar Milao, Durgesh Nandini, Aisa Desh Hain Mera, Resham Dankh, Twinkle Beauty Parlour, Jeete Hain Jiske Liye – all of them launched with an army of promotional salvos, but failed when it came to standing the test of time. A weak script was the culprit in most of the cases. The Indian television audience, it seems, is tired of the run-of-the-mill family dramas and want something different.

Guess it's time television producers, like their Bollywood counterparts, need to get more creative and think out better storylines. They need to look at a Naya Office Office or Baa, Bahoo Aur Baby to hit the bulls eye.

New channels on the block:

If you thought, the traffic jam on air was limited to metropolitan airports, think again! The satellite situation is no better. And a large part of the blame can be attributed to the geometric progression at which television channels are growing.

The year 2007 saw channels like 9x, Bindaas, Zee Next and NDTV Imagine as the big ticket launches. While the general entertainment channel 9X (promoted by ex-STAR head honcho Peter Mukherjea's wife Indrani Mukherjea) is the latest kid to hit the block, all the others are specialized channels with a niche market. With so many channels aiming at various niche markets, one wonders whether the consolidation movement going on in the other industries (airlines, pharma etc) will start raising its head here as well. The year also saw many head honchos of television channels changing sides for greener prospects. Balaji creative whizkid Sandeep Sickand left Ekta Kapoor to join Sony, only to quit after few months. Sameer Nair, COO of Star TV India put in his papers to move on to greener pastures. Ditto for Peter Mukherjea, the man responsible for the stupendous success of Star channels in the subcontinent.

Mega Makevers:

What was unimaginable for the last six years happened in 2007 – the iconic Tulsi (played by Smriti Irani) changed! After a thorough search, and equally rampant rumours, Gautami Gadgil (better known as Ram Kapoor's wife till recently) replaced Smriti, who (officially!) went on a break only to form her own production house and act in newer serials. While, Kyunki's popularity did not nose-dive, it did come down from the numero uno position it was retaining for more than half a decade.

If this was not enough, Balaji also replaced Cezanne Khan (as Anurag Basu) in its prime time serial Kasauti Zindagi Ki with Balaji loyal and Kyun Ki star Hiten Tejwani. With Hiten's popularity as Karan skyrocketing every day, acceptance in his new role was much smoother than Gautami Gadgil's. Kasauti also saw another replacement in the form of Vikas Sethi, replacing Manoj Bohra, who shot to fame with his role of Prem in the same serial.

But why suddenly so many changes in the cast? And why are people like Smriti Irani and Manoj Bohra who were comfortable in their roles and have cemented their positions opt to move ahead? Reasons vary from fights with producers to the quest for making it bigger. While Irani quit Kyunki due to a combination of both factors, Bohra quit purely because of a tiff with the producer. Ditto for Cezzanne Khan, who had infamous on and off set fights with Shweta Tiwari (Prerna).

Shows which are doing well in recent times are Chhoona Hai Aasmaan, Dill Mil Gayye, Mere Apne and ofcourse the reality shows. So what are we looking forward to in the year to come? More competition to Balaji, definitely, now that Smriti Irani's production house is providing serials to the newly-launched 9X. Also, with NDTV's foray into the entertainment world, Star and Times would be facing more competition. But whatever happens, the winner in all cases is the viewer!

The weepy bahu

Kirti Guckwad is happy to be back. The actress. who took a sabbatical after Saat Phere (where she played the lead actor's evil wife) is now in Sahara One's Solah Singarn Gaekwad would like to experiment with various genres."I've done episodies like Siddhanth and Hotel Kingston. They were fun. But in a longdrawn soap, I guess I have to be the weepy bahu," she says.

OSO or Saawariya? TV stars take their pick

As Om Shanti Om and Saawariya release this Diwali, we asked TV stars which one they would prefer to watch.

Divyanka Tripathi (Vidya from Dulhann)

“I’m looking forward to watch OSO as the promos are quite exciting compared to Saawariya. It looks like a complete masala entertainer - a total paisa vasool film. The chemistry between Deepika and SRK is looking great. I and my friends have already started looking for tickets for the film. I hope OSO does better than Saawariya.

Reshmii Ghosh (Bhoomi from Kyunki)

“Definitely OSO. I would love to see how SRK romances Deepika. I have heard a lot of things about her. I am also eager to watch how Farah has managed to blend drama, emotions, comedy and all in this flick and also the song with 31 stars. I am willing to buy a ticket in black if I don’t get it. Bhansali is also a good director and his films are grand with a very good concept but I will watch Saawariya later.”

Tasneem Sheikh (Mohini from Kyunki)

“I want to watch Saawariya because both the debutants are very cute. Also, the sets of the film are marvellous just like Black. When I watched Black I was moved to tears. I am hoping that the story of this film will also be very touching. About OSO, I like its songs but I will wait for feedback from my friends and then decide. I know how SRK acts but Deepika might be a surprise package.”

Sharad Kelkar (Nahar from Saat Phere)

“I want to watch both. Whichever movie ticket I get I will watch that. Kirti is behind me to buy tickets for any of the two films.”

Mouni Roy (KT from Kyunki)

“I will first attend the Diwali pooja and then go for OSO because it is an SRK film!!!”

Sandeep’s ‘loss’ surprises Sumeet

Sandeep’s ‘loss’ surprises Sumeet

Sumeet Sachdev, Gautam of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, got a pleasant surprise when he saw a much slimmer brother Sandeep winning Biggest Loser Jeetega.
Though Sumeet was confident of his brother’s victory, he is yet to come to terms with the amount of weight (50 kgs) Sandeep has shed.


Says the actor, “I missed the earlier episodes but when I eventually saw him on the show I was really surprised to see the changes. He used to jog for four hours and lost around 25 kgs in 8 episodes. The changes which have taken place in him are not gradual.”

Sumeet was candid enough to admit that another contestant Ajay lost more weight than Sandeep. “Unfortunately, Ajay got eliminated much earlier but we should all respect their efforts.”

Spilling the beans about his brother, Sumeet says, “He was thin when he was a child but started to put on weight from the age of 12 because of his bad eating habits and became really overweight. I am happy that he grabbed this chance to participate in the show.”

Why the secrecy over the relationship with Sandeep? “If I would have disclosed it earlier then people would have asked me for more information. And so I thought it would be best to keep quiet. Anyways I was in Dubai when he went to Amby Valley.”

On the celebration front, he reveals, “They have already begun. He is also going to Delhi but it will be a small and private party.”

Sandeep won a cash prize of Rs 50, 70,000 in grand finale of Biggest Loser and now talks are on for a film with him in the lead.