Friday, August 27, 2010
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Bharti Airtel gets 3G licence in Kenya
Zain Kenya, now owned by Bharti Airtel, is set to roll out 3G services in Kenya after it was granted a vlicence by the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK).
According to ITP.net, Charles Njoroge, director general of the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK), said that he was optimistic that the introduction of a second 3G network would help lower the cost of mobile broadband and also lead to the development of new services.
Telkom Kenya also announced plans last week to set up a 3G network in the country, after the regulator reduced the cost of 3G licenses by 60% in a bid to encourage competition.
Zain Kenya, which is the country’s second biggest mobile operator after Safaricom, also competes with Orange Kenya and Essar Telecom Kenya.
According to ITP.net, Charles Njoroge, director general of the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK), said that he was optimistic that the introduction of a second 3G network would help lower the cost of mobile broadband and also lead to the development of new services.
Telkom Kenya also announced plans last week to set up a 3G network in the country, after the regulator reduced the cost of 3G licenses by 60% in a bid to encourage competition.
Zain Kenya, which is the country’s second biggest mobile operator after Safaricom, also competes with Orange Kenya and Essar Telecom Kenya.
No division in ICC over Howard: Pawar
Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, who took over as International Cricket Council (ICC) president on Thursday, has insisted that the rejection of former Australian prime minister John Howard's nomination for the vice president's post will not create a divide in the sport's governing body.
Howard's rejection has left Australia (CA) and New Zealand Cricket (NZC), which floated Howard's nomination seething in anger, as the strong Afro-Asian block, including the Indian cricket board, opposed the candidature at the ICC executive board meeting on Wednesday.
"No, I don't think so at all (that there will be a divide). We have discussed the matter individually and collectively with everybody including Australia, England and New Zealand also. We took a collective decision," Pawar, who took over from David Morgan on Thursday, said in an interview to a news channel.
"I'm not worried because it's a democratic organisation. According to the ICC constitution if any four members oppose to a proposal that cannot be passed. That's why we have requested Australia and New Zealand to give a second thought and come out with a new proposal."
Pawar, 69, said as ICC president, his job would be to introduce more countries to cricket, besides preserving all the three formats of the game.
"My efforts will be to expand the base of cricket to other countries. Today there are 105 countries who are the members of the ICC. But in the true sense, unless we expand the game to China, the USA, some parts of Eastern Europe and some parts of Africa, the game would not reach every corner of the world.
"There is also a lot of debate about the format. There are three formats and one person like me believes in Test matchs. There is also a sizable section who prefer One-Dayers and a section of the new fans feel for T20. I think all the formats have definite responses for different reasons. So we have to preserve all the forms."
On spreading T20 cricket across world, Pawar said: “It's not about T20. In the new area our efforts will be to encourage cricket. To set up cricket academies, to impart training and get the local people and fans involved in cricket."
Pawar assured he won't have any problem juggling his jobs as a minister minister and ICC president.
"Fortunately, the ICC HQ is in Dubai and Dubai works on Saturday and Sunday. So generally, I've to spend three to four days in a month on Sundays. So it's a matter of two-hour flight. So I think there won't be any difficulty.
"Secondly, I will discuss with the prime minister about my responsibilities and will take appropriate decisions so that my government work is not affected.
"I may suggest for more hands. I had asked for three ministers (of state) but they have given only one," Pawar said
Howard's rejection has left Australia (CA) and New Zealand Cricket (NZC), which floated Howard's nomination seething in anger, as the strong Afro-Asian block, including the Indian cricket board, opposed the candidature at the ICC executive board meeting on Wednesday.
"No, I don't think so at all (that there will be a divide). We have discussed the matter individually and collectively with everybody including Australia, England and New Zealand also. We took a collective decision," Pawar, who took over from David Morgan on Thursday, said in an interview to a news channel.
"I'm not worried because it's a democratic organisation. According to the ICC constitution if any four members oppose to a proposal that cannot be passed. That's why we have requested Australia and New Zealand to give a second thought and come out with a new proposal."
Pawar, 69, said as ICC president, his job would be to introduce more countries to cricket, besides preserving all the three formats of the game.
"My efforts will be to expand the base of cricket to other countries. Today there are 105 countries who are the members of the ICC. But in the true sense, unless we expand the game to China, the USA, some parts of Eastern Europe and some parts of Africa, the game would not reach every corner of the world.
"There is also a lot of debate about the format. There are three formats and one person like me believes in Test matchs. There is also a sizable section who prefer One-Dayers and a section of the new fans feel for T20. I think all the formats have definite responses for different reasons. So we have to preserve all the forms."
On spreading T20 cricket across world, Pawar said: “It's not about T20. In the new area our efforts will be to encourage cricket. To set up cricket academies, to impart training and get the local people and fans involved in cricket."
Pawar assured he won't have any problem juggling his jobs as a minister minister and ICC president.
"Fortunately, the ICC HQ is in Dubai and Dubai works on Saturday and Sunday. So generally, I've to spend three to four days in a month on Sundays. So it's a matter of two-hour flight. So I think there won't be any difficulty.
"Secondly, I will discuss with the prime minister about my responsibilities and will take appropriate decisions so that my government work is not affected.
"I may suggest for more hands. I had asked for three ministers (of state) but they have given only one," Pawar said
Airtel to launch 3G services by year-end
Country's leading telecom service provider Bharti Airtel will launch the 3G services by the year-end.
"Our core network is 3G ready, billing, application and content ready. Once bids are through services will take six to eight months after that," Bharti Airtel CEO (India and South Asia) Sanjay Kapoor said while launching a HTC smartphone exclusively on Airtel network.
The auction for 3G spectrum is scheduled to take place on April 9, 2010. But as per the Department of Telecom (DoT) guidelines, operators can only start commercial launch post September 1, 2010. By this consideration, Bharti should be able to start services from October onwards.
Bharti Airtel had put in bids for both 3G and BWA spectrum. Besides, Bharti mostly all the major service providers have also put in their bids.
Vodafone, RCom, Tatas, Idea Cellular have also bid for both 3G as well as BWA spectrum. While Etisalat and Videocon have bid for 3G spectrum only, US-based chip maker Qualcomm, HFCL, Tikona and Spice are understood to have put in their applications for BWA.
The government has fixed Rs 3,500 crore as reserve price for pan-India 3G spectrum and Rs 1,750 crore for Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) services.
However, the bid price may go quite high as the number of operators in the fray far outweighs the number of slots available in both the services.
The government will be selling spectrum to three players across the nation with exception of a few states where four slots will be on offer.
The 3G mobile services will allow high-speed content download and broadband services.
Airtel, which has a subscriber base of 124.6 million, has already have devices which are 3G ready.
The telco earlier this month had reached a deal with Apple Inc to sell the iPhone 3GS in India.
Besides, it has launched HTC Smart phone priced at Rs 9,990 in partnership with HTC
"Our core network is 3G ready, billing, application and content ready. Once bids are through services will take six to eight months after that," Bharti Airtel CEO (India and South Asia) Sanjay Kapoor said while launching a HTC smartphone exclusively on Airtel network.
The auction for 3G spectrum is scheduled to take place on April 9, 2010. But as per the Department of Telecom (DoT) guidelines, operators can only start commercial launch post September 1, 2010. By this consideration, Bharti should be able to start services from October onwards.
Bharti Airtel had put in bids for both 3G and BWA spectrum. Besides, Bharti mostly all the major service providers have also put in their bids.
Vodafone, RCom, Tatas, Idea Cellular have also bid for both 3G as well as BWA spectrum. While Etisalat and Videocon have bid for 3G spectrum only, US-based chip maker Qualcomm, HFCL, Tikona and Spice are understood to have put in their applications for BWA.
The government has fixed Rs 3,500 crore as reserve price for pan-India 3G spectrum and Rs 1,750 crore for Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) services.
However, the bid price may go quite high as the number of operators in the fray far outweighs the number of slots available in both the services.
The government will be selling spectrum to three players across the nation with exception of a few states where four slots will be on offer.
The 3G mobile services will allow high-speed content download and broadband services.
Airtel, which has a subscriber base of 124.6 million, has already have devices which are 3G ready.
The telco earlier this month had reached a deal with Apple Inc to sell the iPhone 3GS in India.
Besides, it has launched HTC Smart phone priced at Rs 9,990 in partnership with HTC
Zvonareva aims to upset Williams in Wimbledon final
Title holder Serena Williams and Russian Vera Zvonareva saw off challenges from youngsters on Thursday to meet in the Wimbledon women's final.
The top seed Williams will be bidding for a fourth trophy on the grass on Saturday after defeating 62nd-ranked Czech Petra Kvitova 7-6(5), 6-2.
Zvonareva posted a 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 defeat of Bulgarian Tsvetana Pironkova, preventing an upset which would have seen the first unseeded finalist in history at the All England club.
Williams, who went down an early first-set break against Kvitova but got it back to take full control until the end of the one-hour, 23-minute win, claimed she never expected to reach the final.
"It wasn't easy, I worked hard," said the 12-time Grand Slam winner. "I didn't expect to get this far considering how I started at beginning of the tournament. I'm happy to still be here.
"Vera's a great player, really tough. I feel like I have nothing to lose going into the final and neither does she."
Zvonareva, who trails the series against Williams 2-5, is expecting to rise to the occasion on Saturday.
"Serena is great player, defending champion, and very tough to play against.
"But I always believe in myself. I'll just have to go out there and try to play my best, like I did in previous matches. We will see what's going to happen then."
Zvonareva's best previous result at a major was the Australian Open semi-finals two years ago. The number 21 has been unable to maintain a place in the top 10 due to a lack of consistent results.
"It's one of my dreams to be out there on the Centre Court, and playing in the finals of Wimbledon," said the 21st-ranked Russian who once stood as high as fifth on the WTA.
I'm thinking too much about my final, but I'm sure when the tournament finishes, finally I will realise that one of my dreams came true."
Pironkova, ranked 82nd, was bidding to become the first unseeded women's finalist at the All England Club as she rode the confidence of a quarter-final knockout of five-time champion Venus Williams.
Pironkova had never played in any tournament final but had exploded into form at Wimbledon.
I tried my best, I tried every point, every game," said an upbeat Pironkova. "But she was playing very aggressive and she was pushing me all the time, and I just couldn't do it."
"This is a huge experience for me," said the Bulgarian. "Reaching the semi-finals in Wimbledon, it's like a dream. Of course I wanted to go to the final, but I guess didn't happen this year.
"I learned a lot, I learned that you just have to play relaxed. You just have to go for every point, to fight, never give up."
Zvonareva was playing in her second semi-final at a major after Australia last year. The Williams win insure at least one of the two sisters placing in 10 of the last 11 Wimbledon finals. One or the other have won the trophy on eight of 10 occasions.
The top seed Williams will be bidding for a fourth trophy on the grass on Saturday after defeating 62nd-ranked Czech Petra Kvitova 7-6(5), 6-2.
Zvonareva posted a 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 defeat of Bulgarian Tsvetana Pironkova, preventing an upset which would have seen the first unseeded finalist in history at the All England club.
Williams, who went down an early first-set break against Kvitova but got it back to take full control until the end of the one-hour, 23-minute win, claimed she never expected to reach the final.
"It wasn't easy, I worked hard," said the 12-time Grand Slam winner. "I didn't expect to get this far considering how I started at beginning of the tournament. I'm happy to still be here.
"Vera's a great player, really tough. I feel like I have nothing to lose going into the final and neither does she."
Zvonareva, who trails the series against Williams 2-5, is expecting to rise to the occasion on Saturday.
"Serena is great player, defending champion, and very tough to play against.
"But I always believe in myself. I'll just have to go out there and try to play my best, like I did in previous matches. We will see what's going to happen then."
Zvonareva's best previous result at a major was the Australian Open semi-finals two years ago. The number 21 has been unable to maintain a place in the top 10 due to a lack of consistent results.
"It's one of my dreams to be out there on the Centre Court, and playing in the finals of Wimbledon," said the 21st-ranked Russian who once stood as high as fifth on the WTA.
I'm thinking too much about my final, but I'm sure when the tournament finishes, finally I will realise that one of my dreams came true."
Pironkova, ranked 82nd, was bidding to become the first unseeded women's finalist at the All England Club as she rode the confidence of a quarter-final knockout of five-time champion Venus Williams.
Pironkova had never played in any tournament final but had exploded into form at Wimbledon.
I tried my best, I tried every point, every game," said an upbeat Pironkova. "But she was playing very aggressive and she was pushing me all the time, and I just couldn't do it."
"This is a huge experience for me," said the Bulgarian. "Reaching the semi-finals in Wimbledon, it's like a dream. Of course I wanted to go to the final, but I guess didn't happen this year.
"I learned a lot, I learned that you just have to play relaxed. You just have to go for every point, to fight, never give up."
Zvonareva was playing in her second semi-final at a major after Australia last year. The Williams win insure at least one of the two sisters placing in 10 of the last 11 Wimbledon finals. One or the other have won the trophy on eight of 10 occasions.
Amir Khan is promoting upcoming movie Peepli Live by poking fun at himself
Aamir Khan is a busy man these days. The actor is occupied with promotions for his upcoming flick Peepli Live. Aamir Khan has always been very innovative, be it in his movies, acting or even in his productions. Aamir Khan carries this distinctness even in his movie promotions. As expected, the actor has been using new unique techniques to promote his movie. This time he is seen poking fun at none other than his own self!
Aamir Khan’s promotional strategies for Peepli Live have been awe inspiring before as well. His shaven head for promotion of the movie Ghajini is still fresh in audiences’ minds. This time the actor has come up with a different concept. The promo will not have any mention of the movie! The promo was launched at promo at Intercontinental, The Lalit in Mumbai. However there are a series of 10 to 12 promos coming up and each of them
Aamir Khan’s promotional strategies for Peepli Live have been awe inspiring before as well. His shaven head for promotion of the movie Ghajini is still fresh in audiences’ minds. This time the actor has come up with a different concept. The promo will not have any mention of the movie! The promo was launched at promo at Intercontinental, The Lalit in Mumbai. However there are a series of 10 to 12 promos coming up and each of them
I Hate Luv Storys Review
Story: Jay Dhingra (Imran Khan) is an aaj ka chokra. He turns up his nose at anything that remotely resembles soppy sentimentality, even though he works as an assistant to a film maker (Samir Soni) who peddles the most improbable mush on screen.
Enter, the new art director, Simran Sharma (Sonam Kapoor) who eats, sleeps and is drunk heady on ishq-vishq and all that goes with it. A diehard romantic, she even has a perfect boyfriend called Raj (Samir Dattani) who gifts her a white chrysanthemum, each time he meets her. But will the pristine white flowers score over Jay's crazy red roses, and crazier ways? Keep guessing....
Movie Review: First things first. Imran Khan and Sonam Kapoor make an interesting pair. After the Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif coupling, this seems to be the most refreshing jodi that's jaunting and jiving on screen. Nice chemistry. Nice tu-tu-main-main (sparring). Nice physical compatibility. And a well-balanced emotional quotient. Kudos to the two of them to carry forth a film which once again doesn't really have anything to boast about in the `storys' department.
Thematically, I Hate Luv Storys, is extremely simplistic, uni-layered and terribly predictable. Imran and Sonam do begin on the we-hate-each-other note, with Imran squirming at any and everything that's filmy while Sonam swears by it all: pink teddys, bunches of blooms, candle-light dinners, Karan Johar films, cuddly Cupid's bows, shooting stars, soppy dialogues and all that made-for-each-other mush. But we all know the way the wind blows, from the word go. Mush shall rule, and how! For all the digs that producer Karan Johar allows on himself (filmmaker Samir Soni is actually a spoof on KJo), we know the film's going to end up reiterating KJo -- and all he translates into onscreen -- as king.
So, Jay Dhingra, who likes girls, but hates girly stuff, is gonna end up crying like a girl very soon. Of course, first he must ridicule Simran for all her `stoopid' misconceptions about lurrrv, including her boyfriend Raj who besides being a frumpish bore, wears `fugly' shirts too. But it doesn't take long for the tables to be turned, twice over. On the one hand, Simran discovers her penchant for Mr Wrong (quirky, irreverent Imran), rather than Mr Right (politically correct Samir). And on the other hand, sceptic Imran succumbs to the love bug, red roses, rain-drenched songs, airport encounters, et all. Only, their turn-overs are mistimed. So that, when Simran says `haan', jokey Jay says `nah!' and when Jay wanna say `yes, yes, yes!', it's a punctilious let's-be-just-friends from the sobered Simran.
Kya khali-peeli confusion, all this babalog blah. But hey, blah can be timepass too. Specially when it has loads of icing on it. Debutant director Punit Malhotra layers his first film with oodles of sugar coating: great locales, mast music (Vishal-Shekhar), a yummy 'n yuppy lead pair, some laugh-out-loud moments and a lot of laugh-on-ourself sequences that ridicule the romcoms that roll out of the Bollywood factory (there are jibes on almost all of Karan Johar films), only to finally reiterate them as pills the public wants. On the performance front, watch out for Imran's endless emoticons (eyebrow lifts, smirks, smileys) and his pronounced pout. And for Sonam's svelte form and pleasant screen presence.
Candy floss floats. Popcorn rules. Go, chew on it.
A word about:
Performances: Cool. Nothing to boast about, but quite watchable, both Sonam and Imran. Together, they share a lively chemistry that keeps the fun rolling. Samir Soni's spoof on Karan Johar-Sanjay Leela Bhansali is cute. Samir Dattani is suitably stiff. He's supposed to be a bore, no.
Story: Punit Malhotra's story is ekdum simple and predictable. But then, when was romance supposed to be rocket science!
Dialogues: Very ordinary. Sometimes corny.
Cinematography: Ayananka Bose creates a visually pretty film.
Music: Vishal-Shekhar create a peppy score that goes well with the pop tenor of the film. Watch out for the title track, Bin Tere and Bahara.
Styling: Manish Malhotra's costumes are the high point: uber cool and urban chic. Lot's of `fugly' shirts juxtaposed against fundoo Tees, with crazy graffiti.
Inspiration: All of Karan Johar films!
Enter, the new art director, Simran Sharma (Sonam Kapoor) who eats, sleeps and is drunk heady on ishq-vishq and all that goes with it. A diehard romantic, she even has a perfect boyfriend called Raj (Samir Dattani) who gifts her a white chrysanthemum, each time he meets her. But will the pristine white flowers score over Jay's crazy red roses, and crazier ways? Keep guessing....
Movie Review: First things first. Imran Khan and Sonam Kapoor make an interesting pair. After the Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif coupling, this seems to be the most refreshing jodi that's jaunting and jiving on screen. Nice chemistry. Nice tu-tu-main-main (sparring). Nice physical compatibility. And a well-balanced emotional quotient. Kudos to the two of them to carry forth a film which once again doesn't really have anything to boast about in the `storys' department.
Thematically, I Hate Luv Storys, is extremely simplistic, uni-layered and terribly predictable. Imran and Sonam do begin on the we-hate-each-other note, with Imran squirming at any and everything that's filmy while Sonam swears by it all: pink teddys, bunches of blooms, candle-light dinners, Karan Johar films, cuddly Cupid's bows, shooting stars, soppy dialogues and all that made-for-each-other mush. But we all know the way the wind blows, from the word go. Mush shall rule, and how! For all the digs that producer Karan Johar allows on himself (filmmaker Samir Soni is actually a spoof on KJo), we know the film's going to end up reiterating KJo -- and all he translates into onscreen -- as king.
So, Jay Dhingra, who likes girls, but hates girly stuff, is gonna end up crying like a girl very soon. Of course, first he must ridicule Simran for all her `stoopid' misconceptions about lurrrv, including her boyfriend Raj who besides being a frumpish bore, wears `fugly' shirts too. But it doesn't take long for the tables to be turned, twice over. On the one hand, Simran discovers her penchant for Mr Wrong (quirky, irreverent Imran), rather than Mr Right (politically correct Samir). And on the other hand, sceptic Imran succumbs to the love bug, red roses, rain-drenched songs, airport encounters, et all. Only, their turn-overs are mistimed. So that, when Simran says `haan', jokey Jay says `nah!' and when Jay wanna say `yes, yes, yes!', it's a punctilious let's-be-just-friends from the sobered Simran.
Kya khali-peeli confusion, all this babalog blah. But hey, blah can be timepass too. Specially when it has loads of icing on it. Debutant director Punit Malhotra layers his first film with oodles of sugar coating: great locales, mast music (Vishal-Shekhar), a yummy 'n yuppy lead pair, some laugh-out-loud moments and a lot of laugh-on-ourself sequences that ridicule the romcoms that roll out of the Bollywood factory (there are jibes on almost all of Karan Johar films), only to finally reiterate them as pills the public wants. On the performance front, watch out for Imran's endless emoticons (eyebrow lifts, smirks, smileys) and his pronounced pout. And for Sonam's svelte form and pleasant screen presence.
Candy floss floats. Popcorn rules. Go, chew on it.
A word about:
Performances: Cool. Nothing to boast about, but quite watchable, both Sonam and Imran. Together, they share a lively chemistry that keeps the fun rolling. Samir Soni's spoof on Karan Johar-Sanjay Leela Bhansali is cute. Samir Dattani is suitably stiff. He's supposed to be a bore, no.
Story: Punit Malhotra's story is ekdum simple and predictable. But then, when was romance supposed to be rocket science!
Dialogues: Very ordinary. Sometimes corny.
Cinematography: Ayananka Bose creates a visually pretty film.
Music: Vishal-Shekhar create a peppy score that goes well with the pop tenor of the film. Watch out for the title track, Bin Tere and Bahara.
Styling: Manish Malhotra's costumes are the high point: uber cool and urban chic. Lot's of `fugly' shirts juxtaposed against fundoo Tees, with crazy graffiti.
Inspiration: All of Karan Johar films!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
All is well between Salman and Katrina
For those who think Katrina Kaif has severed all relations with Salman Khan and his family, there is news. Recently she arranged a show of her latest hit "Raajneeti" for Salim Khan who is proud of the actress.
Talking about arranging the show for Salman's family after they've apparently split, Katrina said: "I wish all these speculations on my personal life would end. Salman's family is the only family I've known in Mumbai. That can't change.
"Of course, I wanted Salim saab to see 'Raajneeti' for very special reason. He has seen my struggle in Bollywood from the start. He's very proud of me."
"Raajneeti" director Prakash Jha said: "Salim saab was full of praise for 'Raajneeti'. He specially praised the dialogues which, coming from him, was a great compliment. Earlier, Salim saab had said what he and Javed Akhtar saab wrote as a cops story in 'Zanjeer' was nowhere near the authenticity of my cops story in 'Gangaa Jal'. He's a generous man."
Salim Khan's generosity was also evident in the call he made to Katrina praising her mature and restrained performance in "Raajneeti".
After tweeting to the entire world that he would definitely like to see "Raajneeti" and raising Katrina's hopes that he'd finally watch one of her films, Salman stayed away from the special screening of "Raajneeti". Salman has not seen a single film of Katrina.
Talking about arranging the show for Salman's family after they've apparently split, Katrina said: "I wish all these speculations on my personal life would end. Salman's family is the only family I've known in Mumbai. That can't change.
"Of course, I wanted Salim saab to see 'Raajneeti' for very special reason. He has seen my struggle in Bollywood from the start. He's very proud of me."
"Raajneeti" director Prakash Jha said: "Salim saab was full of praise for 'Raajneeti'. He specially praised the dialogues which, coming from him, was a great compliment. Earlier, Salim saab had said what he and Javed Akhtar saab wrote as a cops story in 'Zanjeer' was nowhere near the authenticity of my cops story in 'Gangaa Jal'. He's a generous man."
Salim Khan's generosity was also evident in the call he made to Katrina praising her mature and restrained performance in "Raajneeti".
After tweeting to the entire world that he would definitely like to see "Raajneeti" and raising Katrina's hopes that he'd finally watch one of her films, Salman stayed away from the special screening of "Raajneeti". Salman has not seen a single film of Katrina.
Rafael Nadal into Wimbledon semi-finals
Spain's world number one Rafael Nadal beat Swedish sixth seed Robin Soderling 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 in the men's singles quarter-finals at Wimbledon on Wednesday.
"I started so slow but Robin was playing very long, very powerful shots so it was very difficult for me," Nadal said.
"I am feeling great. For me, another time in the semi-finals of this tournament is a dream.
"I always try my best and I think I am playing better and better every day. In my opinion there is no one favourite right now in the tournament."
"I started so slow but Robin was playing very long, very powerful shots so it was very difficult for me," Nadal said.
"I am feeling great. For me, another time in the semi-finals of this tournament is a dream.
"I always try my best and I think I am playing better and better every day. In my opinion there is no one favourite right now in the tournament."
What's brewing KJo, Vidya?
Vidya Balan and Karan Johar have often been meeting up either at work or home
Recently, Vidya was seen at Karan’s office in Khar, which is incidentally diagonally opposite to her new house. She was living in Chembur earlier. A couple of days ago, she even went to Karan’s house at Union Park for dinner and was there for four hours. If all goes well, Vidya may soon find herself in one of Karan Johar’s forthcoming productions.
A friend of Vidya’s says, “Vidya’s fine performances in Paa and Ishqiya, which were very different from each other, has made Karan sit up and take notice. Apparently, they are talking about working together.”
The friend confirmed that Karan had invited Vidya to many of his parties even earlier and that Vidya has always loved Karan’s films.
At Karan’s house the two of them spoke about everything under the sun. Karan confirmed that Vidya came to his house for dinner. He said, “A couple of other friends were there too. Vidya is a tremendously talented actress. My company, Dharma Productions, is very keen on working with her. But there is no film as yet. Right now, there’s only I Hate Luv Storys (which releases this Friday) in my mind.
What’s brewing between Karan Johar and Vidya Balan? The latest is that the two have struck a new friendship after meeting and interacting at a recent function. Vidya was spotted sitting next to Karan there.
I am running around all over the place. Then I’ll be working on Dostana 2, which I am producing. I have become more of a producer now. As for a script, which I was supposed to pen in London for my next directorial venture, I wasn’t able to structure it much. In fact, I ended up having five different ideas.”
Recounting her meeting with Karan, Vidya too was gushing praises for the filmmaker, “Karan Johar is one of the wittiest people I have met. He had me in splits. No wonder, he writes beautifully.”
Recently, Vidya was seen at Karan’s office in Khar, which is incidentally diagonally opposite to her new house. She was living in Chembur earlier. A couple of days ago, she even went to Karan’s house at Union Park for dinner and was there for four hours. If all goes well, Vidya may soon find herself in one of Karan Johar’s forthcoming productions.
A friend of Vidya’s says, “Vidya’s fine performances in Paa and Ishqiya, which were very different from each other, has made Karan sit up and take notice. Apparently, they are talking about working together.”
The friend confirmed that Karan had invited Vidya to many of his parties even earlier and that Vidya has always loved Karan’s films.
At Karan’s house the two of them spoke about everything under the sun. Karan confirmed that Vidya came to his house for dinner. He said, “A couple of other friends were there too. Vidya is a tremendously talented actress. My company, Dharma Productions, is very keen on working with her. But there is no film as yet. Right now, there’s only I Hate Luv Storys (which releases this Friday) in my mind.
What’s brewing between Karan Johar and Vidya Balan? The latest is that the two have struck a new friendship after meeting and interacting at a recent function. Vidya was spotted sitting next to Karan there.
I am running around all over the place. Then I’ll be working on Dostana 2, which I am producing. I have become more of a producer now. As for a script, which I was supposed to pen in London for my next directorial venture, I wasn’t able to structure it much. In fact, I ended up having five different ideas.”
Recounting her meeting with Karan, Vidya too was gushing praises for the filmmaker, “Karan Johar is one of the wittiest people I have met. He had me in splits. No wonder, he writes beautifully.”
Roger federer looses to Tomas Berdych says right leg injury reason
Roger Federer said injuries to his back and right leg played a key role in his stunning Wimbledon quarter-final defeat by Tomas Berdych on Wednesday.
Federer's reign as Wimbledon champion was brought to a sensational end on Centre Centre as Czech 12th seed Berdych ensured the world number two would miss the Wimbledon final for the first time since 2002.
After seven years of almost uninterrupted success at the All England Club, Federer was unable to subdue the big-serving Berdych as he suffered his second successive Grand Slam quarter-final defeat.
It is worry trend for the six-time Wimbledon champion, but he puts his recent struggles down to the difficulties of dealing with two injuries at once.
"I am struggling with a little bit of a back and a leg issue," Federer said. "That just doesn't quite allow me to play the way I would like to play. So it's frustrating, to say the least.
"The leg injury came in the finals of Halle. That never really went away and the back's been feeling really badly stiff for the last five or six days.
"When you're hurting, it's just a combination of many things. You just don't feel as comfortable.
"You can't concentrate on each and every point because you do feel the pain sometimes. And then you tend to play differently than the way you want to play.
"Under the circumstances I think I played a decent match. But I've been feeling bad for the last two, three matches now. It's just not good and healthy to play under these kind of conditions.
"So if there's anything good about this it's I'm gonna get some rest, that's for sure."
Federer had won eight of his previous 10 meetings with Berdych, but he found it impossible to get to grips with his opponent's ferocious serve and precise, powerful ground-strokes.
The Swiss star never looked comfortable as Berdych went for broke on every point and he insisted the defeat was more a result of the Czech's excellent display than any failings in his own game.
"I don't think I played poorly but he went after it. I know Berdych. I think I've played him 10 times already before and that's the way he plays," Federer said.
"He's been able to play more consistent for the last year or so, and I was just not able to defend well enough and I didn't come up with the good stuff when I had to. So it was disappointing.
"I had my chances. I don't think I needed to change much. The way I returned, I could have won.
"But I was just not playing well enough. And when he had to, he was able to come up with some good stuff."
By his own high standards 2010 has been a forgettable year for Federer, who has now failed to win any of his eight tournaments since beating Andy Murray in the Australian Open final in January.
But, while Federer concedes he has been below his best in recent months, he has no intention of panicking and expects to return fit and revitalised in time for the American hard court season.
"Obviously people think (going out in the) quarters is shocking, but people would die to play in the quarter-final of a Grand Slam," he said.
"It's not something I'm used to doing, losing in quarter-finals, because it's not something I've done in the last six years.
"Obviously I'm unhappy with the way I'm playing. I'm definitely struggling at the moment.
"But I'm looking forward to a rest, and then attack again in North America."
Federer's reign as Wimbledon champion was brought to a sensational end on Centre Centre as Czech 12th seed Berdych ensured the world number two would miss the Wimbledon final for the first time since 2002.
After seven years of almost uninterrupted success at the All England Club, Federer was unable to subdue the big-serving Berdych as he suffered his second successive Grand Slam quarter-final defeat.
It is worry trend for the six-time Wimbledon champion, but he puts his recent struggles down to the difficulties of dealing with two injuries at once.
"I am struggling with a little bit of a back and a leg issue," Federer said. "That just doesn't quite allow me to play the way I would like to play. So it's frustrating, to say the least.
"The leg injury came in the finals of Halle. That never really went away and the back's been feeling really badly stiff for the last five or six days.
"When you're hurting, it's just a combination of many things. You just don't feel as comfortable.
"You can't concentrate on each and every point because you do feel the pain sometimes. And then you tend to play differently than the way you want to play.
"Under the circumstances I think I played a decent match. But I've been feeling bad for the last two, three matches now. It's just not good and healthy to play under these kind of conditions.
"So if there's anything good about this it's I'm gonna get some rest, that's for sure."
Federer had won eight of his previous 10 meetings with Berdych, but he found it impossible to get to grips with his opponent's ferocious serve and precise, powerful ground-strokes.
The Swiss star never looked comfortable as Berdych went for broke on every point and he insisted the defeat was more a result of the Czech's excellent display than any failings in his own game.
"I don't think I played poorly but he went after it. I know Berdych. I think I've played him 10 times already before and that's the way he plays," Federer said.
"He's been able to play more consistent for the last year or so, and I was just not able to defend well enough and I didn't come up with the good stuff when I had to. So it was disappointing.
"I had my chances. I don't think I needed to change much. The way I returned, I could have won.
"But I was just not playing well enough. And when he had to, he was able to come up with some good stuff."
By his own high standards 2010 has been a forgettable year for Federer, who has now failed to win any of his eight tournaments since beating Andy Murray in the Australian Open final in January.
But, while Federer concedes he has been below his best in recent months, he has no intention of panicking and expects to return fit and revitalised in time for the American hard court season.
"Obviously people think (going out in the) quarters is shocking, but people would die to play in the quarter-final of a Grand Slam," he said.
"It's not something I'm used to doing, losing in quarter-finals, because it's not something I've done in the last six years.
"Obviously I'm unhappy with the way I'm playing. I'm definitely struggling at the moment.
"But I'm looking forward to a rest, and then attack again in North America."
Larry King to stop his show
I have a style,'' Larry King told me in 1998. "If you don't like that style, I can't do anything about that.''
There were plenty who did not like King's style, but I did. And I'm going to miss this Average Joe with above-average curiosity, this virtuoso of the vernacular. His announcement that he is surrendering his perch at CNN after 25 years means the departure of a genuine TV character, one as idiosyncratic and memorable in his way as, say, John Locke on "Lost'' or Gregory House on "House.''
The difference, of course, was that Larry King was not a scriptwriter's creation, but real. With his suspenders, his oversized glasses, his bulbous noggin, and a gravelly voice with which he questioned guests or greeted call-ins from viewers ("Cedar Falls, hello!), he seemed to belong to another time.
Increasingly, that became a problem, and, at 76, with his ratings plummeting and his show often seeming unfocused, he's right to hang it up now. With its hiring of disgraced-but-feisty former New York governor Eliot Spitzer to cohost a "Crossfire''-style show in the 8 p.m. hour, CNN is clearly trying to play catch up with Fox News and MSNBC by providing a home for partisan combat.
That's not what King was about. A radio guy originally, he brought that medium's appetite for sustained conversation to his work on television. He liked to talk to people and -- get this! -- he actually listened to what they said, unlike so many other cable blowhards in love with the sound of their own voice. In contrast with their bullying demeanor, King brought an old-school, gentlemanly quality even to his interviews of people with whom he disagreed.
He was a quirky original, and in any history that is written of television, Larry King will loom large.
There were plenty who did not like King's style, but I did. And I'm going to miss this Average Joe with above-average curiosity, this virtuoso of the vernacular. His announcement that he is surrendering his perch at CNN after 25 years means the departure of a genuine TV character, one as idiosyncratic and memorable in his way as, say, John Locke on "Lost'' or Gregory House on "House.''
The difference, of course, was that Larry King was not a scriptwriter's creation, but real. With his suspenders, his oversized glasses, his bulbous noggin, and a gravelly voice with which he questioned guests or greeted call-ins from viewers ("Cedar Falls, hello!), he seemed to belong to another time.
Increasingly, that became a problem, and, at 76, with his ratings plummeting and his show often seeming unfocused, he's right to hang it up now. With its hiring of disgraced-but-feisty former New York governor Eliot Spitzer to cohost a "Crossfire''-style show in the 8 p.m. hour, CNN is clearly trying to play catch up with Fox News and MSNBC by providing a home for partisan combat.
That's not what King was about. A radio guy originally, he brought that medium's appetite for sustained conversation to his work on television. He liked to talk to people and -- get this! -- he actually listened to what they said, unlike so many other cable blowhards in love with the sound of their own voice. In contrast with their bullying demeanor, King brought an old-school, gentlemanly quality even to his interviews of people with whom he disagreed.
He was a quirky original, and in any history that is written of television, Larry King will loom large.
Karan all set to kick start AGNEEPATH
Ever since Karan Johar announced the remake of this Amitabh Bachchan starrer cult modern day classic, audience has waited with bated breath to know more about its progress. Even though Karan hadn't announced any timelines for the shooting of the film and the subsequent release, there has been widespread excitement about AGNEEPATH for close to one year now.
"Well, the current status around AGNEEPATH is that the film's screenplay has been finalized. I am mighty excited about the work that has gone in because it is beyond anything that I have done in the past", says Karan who is currently deep neck involved in the promotional activities of his upcoming release I HATE LUV STORYS.
There have been speculations galore about the AGNEEPATH remake which would be directed by first timer Karan Malhotra. While names like Hrithik Roshan and Abhishek Bachchan have been thrown around, there is no announcement that has come from Karan Johar.
"I have maintained this earlier and I am stating this again, no one has been finalized yet for AGNEEPATH. When an announcement has to happen, it will be official", is all that Karan is willing to state around the casting.
However, he is happy to talk about the emotional process of making the film. "My father was quite attached to the film and he was truly disheartened when the film didn't work at the box office. It is such an irony that though it didn't connect with the audience then, today it is being hailed as a cult classic", he says with regret written all over his face.
The fact that AGNEEPATH is doing extremely well on home video and satellite circuits is heartening for Karan. However, that is not really enough for Johar junior who wishes to bring the story again in an all new avtar.
"It is my ambition and dream to fulfill my father's dream to ensure that the story reaches out to the widest possible audience through theaters", he says, "Keeping today's sensibilities in mind, we are tweaking it appropriately as well. Karan Malhotra is looking at the film differently and hence we wanted to invest a good amount of time in getting the screenplay perfect."
"Well, the current status around AGNEEPATH is that the film's screenplay has been finalized. I am mighty excited about the work that has gone in because it is beyond anything that I have done in the past", says Karan who is currently deep neck involved in the promotional activities of his upcoming release I HATE LUV STORYS.
There have been speculations galore about the AGNEEPATH remake which would be directed by first timer Karan Malhotra. While names like Hrithik Roshan and Abhishek Bachchan have been thrown around, there is no announcement that has come from Karan Johar.
"I have maintained this earlier and I am stating this again, no one has been finalized yet for AGNEEPATH. When an announcement has to happen, it will be official", is all that Karan is willing to state around the casting.
However, he is happy to talk about the emotional process of making the film. "My father was quite attached to the film and he was truly disheartened when the film didn't work at the box office. It is such an irony that though it didn't connect with the audience then, today it is being hailed as a cult classic", he says with regret written all over his face.
The fact that AGNEEPATH is doing extremely well on home video and satellite circuits is heartening for Karan. However, that is not really enough for Johar junior who wishes to bring the story again in an all new avtar.
"It is my ambition and dream to fulfill my father's dream to ensure that the story reaches out to the widest possible audience through theaters", he says, "Keeping today's sensibilities in mind, we are tweaking it appropriately as well. Karan Malhotra is looking at the film differently and hence we wanted to invest a good amount of time in getting the screenplay perfect."
ANJAANA ANJAANI to bring on 'Khuda Jaane' magic?
Ever since Vishal-Shekhar created 'Khuda Jaane' for BACHNA AE HASEENO, there have been speculations galore if the composer duo would be able to recreate the same magic all over again. Yes, they have delivered good music in subsequent films like DOSTANA and I HATE LUV STORYS as well. However, the magic of 'Khuda Jaane' is something which is waiting to enthrall audience all over again.
The melodious track picturised on Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone was a rage and now that director Siddharth Anand, Ranbir Kapoor and the composer duo Vishal-Shekhar are coming together all over again for ANJAANA ANJAANI, one looks forward to something spectacular.
"Of course the song went on to be truly phenomenal but then at the end of the day, it was meant for BACHNA AE HASEENO", smiles Shekhar, "We never compare our previous soundtracks, even though people keep coming back to us about JHANKAAR BEATS as well. For us ANJAANI ANJAANI is a new album and let's say that it may well bring in something huger than 'Khuda Jaane'."
CHECK OUT: Today, the trend is changing
With Sajid Nadiadwala, producer of ANJAANA ANJAANI, touting the film as his first true blue romantic musical entertainer, there are huge hopes nevertheless from the soundtrack here. No wonder, he can't be expected to have settled for anything lesser.
"The fact is that every composer has asked us how 'Khuda Jaane' was made. This is why, while making music of ANJAANA ANJAANI, we had to put ourselves in a challenging position to surpass our earlier effort", adds Vishal, "Whether we have managed to do that or not is something in the hands of audience and God. All we can say is that the title track of ANJAANA ANJAANI is totally new. The tune goes into many different places and emotions and comes to a very strong core of melody. Hopefully people will like it."
Well, we hope too!
The melodious track picturised on Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone was a rage and now that director Siddharth Anand, Ranbir Kapoor and the composer duo Vishal-Shekhar are coming together all over again for ANJAANA ANJAANI, one looks forward to something spectacular.
"Of course the song went on to be truly phenomenal but then at the end of the day, it was meant for BACHNA AE HASEENO", smiles Shekhar, "We never compare our previous soundtracks, even though people keep coming back to us about JHANKAAR BEATS as well. For us ANJAANI ANJAANI is a new album and let's say that it may well bring in something huger than 'Khuda Jaane'."
CHECK OUT: Today, the trend is changing
With Sajid Nadiadwala, producer of ANJAANA ANJAANI, touting the film as his first true blue romantic musical entertainer, there are huge hopes nevertheless from the soundtrack here. No wonder, he can't be expected to have settled for anything lesser.
"The fact is that every composer has asked us how 'Khuda Jaane' was made. This is why, while making music of ANJAANA ANJAANI, we had to put ourselves in a challenging position to surpass our earlier effort", adds Vishal, "Whether we have managed to do that or not is something in the hands of audience and God. All we can say is that the title track of ANJAANA ANJAANI is totally new. The tune goes into many different places and emotions and comes to a very strong core of melody. Hopefully people will like it."
Well, we hope too!
SRK-Gauri get protective in Mannat
Talk to Shah Rukh Khan and if you happen to be a woman, there’s no way you will not end up going weak in the knees. The actor too obliges his female fans by flashing his dimpled smile at them, posing for pictures and signing autographs for them. Just like women shower special attention on Shah Rukh, the actor reciprocates by ensuring women, around him are never ill-treated either.
We recall, during one of the press conferences, Shah Rukh drove the photographers into absolute frenzy (the way it happens every time SRK steps out and attends an event). SRK’s bodyguards tried to control the paparazzi and even in this extreme chaos the actor warned his bodyguards not to hurt any female reporters who were also waiting for his bytes.
The actor is extremely protective of women and hates it when they are put though any form of abuse or discomfort. Shah Rukh and Gauri have thus introduced a norm in Mannat that ensures total comfort for the women workers in the house.
In a tv documentary made on him, the actor himself revealed, “Gauri and I want the female workers of the house to feel at ease when they are working. We thus make sure that on few floors the men workers of the house are not allowed as the women shouldn’t feel conscious when they get up in the morning and start working.”
We were charmed, awed and inspired by SRK all this while but this piece of news has made us realize how great a soul he indeed is other than being a great actor. Hats off to you Shah Rukh.
We recall, during one of the press conferences, Shah Rukh drove the photographers into absolute frenzy (the way it happens every time SRK steps out and attends an event). SRK’s bodyguards tried to control the paparazzi and even in this extreme chaos the actor warned his bodyguards not to hurt any female reporters who were also waiting for his bytes.
The actor is extremely protective of women and hates it when they are put though any form of abuse or discomfort. Shah Rukh and Gauri have thus introduced a norm in Mannat that ensures total comfort for the women workers in the house.
In a tv documentary made on him, the actor himself revealed, “Gauri and I want the female workers of the house to feel at ease when they are working. We thus make sure that on few floors the men workers of the house are not allowed as the women shouldn’t feel conscious when they get up in the morning and start working.”
We were charmed, awed and inspired by SRK all this while but this piece of news has made us realize how great a soul he indeed is other than being a great actor. Hats off to you Shah Rukh.
Salman won't watch Abhi-Ash together?
On Saturday evening after pack-up a part of Salman’s Ready crew in Sri Lanka took off to see Mani Ratnam’s Raavan. Salman was also asked to accompany the excited group of actors and technicians.
Says a source, “Initially Salman did show interest in the film. But then when it was time to accompany the rest of the Ready unit Salman opted out because of the controversial nature of the subject and also the fact that he has earned the wrath of the Tamilians by embracing endorsing and visiting Sri Lanka twice in a month.”
More importantly Raavan is worshipped by certain sections of the Sri Lankan people and the film did raise hackles when released in Sri Lanka. Understandably, Salman was advised against accompanying his friends for Raavan.
Mahesh Manjrekar who’s shooting with Salman in Sri Lanka confirms the fact that Salman did not accompany him and the others who saw Raavan on Saturday. “I went with my friends. But it went very peacefully. I had also heard that the Sri Lankans were offended by the way Raavan was depicted. But there were 500 people in the theatre and they watched in rapt attention.”
Since the movie theatres in Sri Lanka do not allow edibles Manjrekar and his friends had taken their own snacks. “We had a good time. Wish Salman accompanied us.”
Says a source, “Initially Salman did show interest in the film. But then when it was time to accompany the rest of the Ready unit Salman opted out because of the controversial nature of the subject and also the fact that he has earned the wrath of the Tamilians by embracing endorsing and visiting Sri Lanka twice in a month.”
More importantly Raavan is worshipped by certain sections of the Sri Lankan people and the film did raise hackles when released in Sri Lanka. Understandably, Salman was advised against accompanying his friends for Raavan.
Mahesh Manjrekar who’s shooting with Salman in Sri Lanka confirms the fact that Salman did not accompany him and the others who saw Raavan on Saturday. “I went with my friends. But it went very peacefully. I had also heard that the Sri Lankans were offended by the way Raavan was depicted. But there were 500 people in the theatre and they watched in rapt attention.”
Since the movie theatres in Sri Lanka do not allow edibles Manjrekar and his friends had taken their own snacks. “We had a good time. Wish Salman accompanied us.”
Genelia crowned brand ambassador of the year
Actress Genelia D’Souza has been crowned as the Brand Ambassador of the Year by CNBC AWAAZ Consumer Awards. Last year Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan had won the title.
The actress currently endorses nine brands including Cadbury's Perk, Fanta, Spinz, Dabur Vatika, LG Cookie, Virgin, Margo, Garnier and Fasttrack.
"It is an honour that CNBC AWAAZ and the Indian consumers have chosen to bestow upon me and I couldn't be happier. Stalwarts like Shah Rukh and Akshay Kumar have been awarded this prestigious title in the past and I'm only glad that people think I'm worthy of the same," Genelia said in a press statement.
"This award symbolises a bridge between the consumer and the brand and I consider it a huge responsibility. I hope I continue to do even better in the future and I'm sure I will as I have a very strong team with me that helps me build, grow and sustain. My success is as much theirs as it is mine," she added.
The award was announced late Monday evening.
The actress currently endorses nine brands including Cadbury's Perk, Fanta, Spinz, Dabur Vatika, LG Cookie, Virgin, Margo, Garnier and Fasttrack.
"It is an honour that CNBC AWAAZ and the Indian consumers have chosen to bestow upon me and I couldn't be happier. Stalwarts like Shah Rukh and Akshay Kumar have been awarded this prestigious title in the past and I'm only glad that people think I'm worthy of the same," Genelia said in a press statement.
"This award symbolises a bridge between the consumer and the brand and I consider it a huge responsibility. I hope I continue to do even better in the future and I'm sure I will as I have a very strong team with me that helps me build, grow and sustain. My success is as much theirs as it is mine," she added.
The award was announced late Monday evening.
Danny Boyle Featuring Aamir Khan in Bombay Velvet
Danny has chosen Anurag Kashyap as the director of this movie. According to Anurag Shahrukh Khan was never in the picture.
In fact, the makers have always believed that only Aamir Khan had the passion and profundity to perform the character and so there were no double thoughts of thinking for any other name (read Shahrukh Khan).
Anurag Kashyap has sheltered the script and would be visiting Aamir for narration and even if Aamir discarded the script they would go for an actor who’ll suit the script not a name.
However, Anurag is positive that known “the perfectionist” nature of Aamir Khan, he would be excited to take up the assignment which is tailor made for him. Bombay Velvet is being produced by Danny Boyle with Studio 18 and written-directed by Anurag Kashyap.
Earlier it was rumored that Aamir and SRK would be acting together in the movie, but now it has been made clear that there is only Amir Khan in the flick.
The murmurs in the industry are such that Shah Rukh Khan’s dismissal from the movie might be a result of his rejection of Danny Boyle’s ‘Slumdog Millionaire’.
SRK was approached for Anil Kapoor’s role in the movie at first and since then Danny Boyle and SRK are not on best of terms, and so there was no question of Danny offering this flick to King Khan.
In fact, the makers have always believed that only Aamir Khan had the passion and profundity to perform the character and so there were no double thoughts of thinking for any other name (read Shahrukh Khan).
Anurag Kashyap has sheltered the script and would be visiting Aamir for narration and even if Aamir discarded the script they would go for an actor who’ll suit the script not a name.
However, Anurag is positive that known “the perfectionist” nature of Aamir Khan, he would be excited to take up the assignment which is tailor made for him. Bombay Velvet is being produced by Danny Boyle with Studio 18 and written-directed by Anurag Kashyap.
Earlier it was rumored that Aamir and SRK would be acting together in the movie, but now it has been made clear that there is only Amir Khan in the flick.
The murmurs in the industry are such that Shah Rukh Khan’s dismissal from the movie might be a result of his rejection of Danny Boyle’s ‘Slumdog Millionaire’.
SRK was approached for Anil Kapoor’s role in the movie at first and since then Danny Boyle and SRK are not on best of terms, and so there was no question of Danny offering this flick to King Khan.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Spain,v Portugal set for high-voltage clash
The saliva is already pooling on the floor in Cape Town as mouths water ahead of the first-ever World Cup match between neighbours Spain and Portugal, who meet on Tuesday in the final round of 16 match.
Much is expected of the game, which will pit the likes of Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco against Xavi Hernandez and David Villa in Cape Town’s Green Point stadium.
But there is a chance that the free-flowing, high-scoring game the game promises on paper will fail to materialise.
Spain cast off their reputation as big tournament chokers when they won the 2008 European Championships, and came into the World Cup as joint-favourites with Brazil.
Yet their star-studded squad has so far not fulfilled its attacking potential, while Portugal has proven stingy in defence.
Wins over Honduras (2-0) and ten-man Chile (2-1) saw Spain through at the top of Group H despite a shock 1-0 defeat to Switzerland in the opening game.
Striker Fernando Torres has been a pale imitation of his old self, and Spain have had to rely on David Villa, who has scored three of their four goals so far.
Portugal has taken notice.
“We know that Spain had some difficulties in their first games,” Portuguese midfielder Raul Meireles said. “We have to play to win.”
If Torres has struggled to score against less-illustrious opposition, he is likely to find the going tougher against a Portuguese team yet to concede a goal despite being landed in this year’s Group of Death.
Neither Brazil, Ivory Coast nor North Korea could breach the rearguard of Portugal, who finished second in Group G.
Spain boss Vicente del Bosque, while wary of Ronaldo, feels this defensive strength is the biggest threat to his team’s progression to a quarterfinal tie against either Japan or Paraguay.
“Cristiano is one of their best players, but we mustn’t forget that the Portuguese are the only team that still haven’t conceded a goal at this World Cup,” he said.
“Their game is based around defensive solidity, pace and counter-attacking, as well as having very skilful players.” The flip side of the coin is that Portugal have struggled to score — which may seem an odd statement for a team with seven goals from three games.
But all of their goals came against lowly North Korea. The matches against Ivory Coast and Brazil were turgid 0-0 draws.
Nonetheless, Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz is convinced his team has not yet shown its true menace.
“Portugal’s best is still to come,” he said.
Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso, a key player, is likely to miss the game with an ankle injury sustained in the win over Chile.
The Spaniards have quality options aplenty on the bench with Cesc Fabregas and David Silva desperate for more playing time — although the rumour is that del Bosque will go with the more defensive Javi Martinez to nullify Portugal’s attacking threat.
Playmaker Deco missed Portugal’s matches against North Korea and Brazil, but is expected to return and bring some more creativity to the midfield.
Much is expected of the game, which will pit the likes of Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco against Xavi Hernandez and David Villa in Cape Town’s Green Point stadium.
But there is a chance that the free-flowing, high-scoring game the game promises on paper will fail to materialise.
Spain cast off their reputation as big tournament chokers when they won the 2008 European Championships, and came into the World Cup as joint-favourites with Brazil.
Yet their star-studded squad has so far not fulfilled its attacking potential, while Portugal has proven stingy in defence.
Wins over Honduras (2-0) and ten-man Chile (2-1) saw Spain through at the top of Group H despite a shock 1-0 defeat to Switzerland in the opening game.
Striker Fernando Torres has been a pale imitation of his old self, and Spain have had to rely on David Villa, who has scored three of their four goals so far.
Portugal has taken notice.
“We know that Spain had some difficulties in their first games,” Portuguese midfielder Raul Meireles said. “We have to play to win.”
If Torres has struggled to score against less-illustrious opposition, he is likely to find the going tougher against a Portuguese team yet to concede a goal despite being landed in this year’s Group of Death.
Neither Brazil, Ivory Coast nor North Korea could breach the rearguard of Portugal, who finished second in Group G.
Spain boss Vicente del Bosque, while wary of Ronaldo, feels this defensive strength is the biggest threat to his team’s progression to a quarterfinal tie against either Japan or Paraguay.
“Cristiano is one of their best players, but we mustn’t forget that the Portuguese are the only team that still haven’t conceded a goal at this World Cup,” he said.
“Their game is based around defensive solidity, pace and counter-attacking, as well as having very skilful players.” The flip side of the coin is that Portugal have struggled to score — which may seem an odd statement for a team with seven goals from three games.
But all of their goals came against lowly North Korea. The matches against Ivory Coast and Brazil were turgid 0-0 draws.
Nonetheless, Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz is convinced his team has not yet shown its true menace.
“Portugal’s best is still to come,” he said.
Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso, a key player, is likely to miss the game with an ankle injury sustained in the win over Chile.
The Spaniards have quality options aplenty on the bench with Cesc Fabregas and David Silva desperate for more playing time — although the rumour is that del Bosque will go with the more defensive Javi Martinez to nullify Portugal’s attacking threat.
Playmaker Deco missed Portugal’s matches against North Korea and Brazil, but is expected to return and bring some more creativity to the midfield.
