Shahrukh Khan coming back to Twitter

Shahrukh Khan returned on Twitter: The Bollywood King Shahrukh Khan returned on twitter the (social networking site) after a long time and its a huge exciting moments for all of his fans.

The buzz is that the director of Ra. One Abhinav Sinha convinced Shahrukh to return to twitter.

King Khan posted on twitter after return:

“Back home after outdoor stints. Nice to be back to familiarity...and also with my familiar twitter friends. As promised a big HELLO!”

“Yes nice to be back...like bad habits even you all are difficult to quit...so here's to a new round of bad habiting between u and me.”

Shahrukh in Hollywood Movie Xtreme City with co-starring Leonardo DiCaprio

Shahrukh Khan team up with Leonardo DiCaprio!: Shahrukh Khan, the superstar of Hindi cinema, is finally set to make a foray into Hollywood with a film titled Xtrme City, co-starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

The project will be jointly produced by Shahrukh and the acclaimed producer-director Martin Scorsese. Paul Schrader, the screenwriter of films like Taxi Driver and Raging Bull, will direct the movie.

The film’s screenplay is penned jointly by Schrader and SRK’s good friend and author Mushtaq Sheikh. Sheikh also confirms that Scorsese has gone through the script and liked it very much.

The project was discussed at length last year during the Berlin Film Festival where Shahrukh had gone with Mushtaq for the premiere of his film My Name Is Khan. Scorsese and DiCaprio too were there for their film Shutter Island.

The quartet, along with Schrader, met on the sidelines of the festival and discussed a possible collaboration between two of the biggest film producing industries in the world.

The result is Xtrme City that will have Shahrukh sharing the screen space with the Titanic star, DiCaprio.

Shahrukh Khan's 'Zor Ka Jhatka' show rejected

Shahrukh Khan's 'Zor Ka Jhatka' show rejected: It’s Shahrukh Khan who has got Zor Ka Jhatka, that too for the second time on boob tube.

The television show Zor Ka Jhatka hosted by Shahrukh and shot in Argentina has been getting dismally low TRPs ever since it went on air on Feb 1. It’s TVR on the opening day was 2.6, which is shockingly low for any show hosted by a major Bollywood star on TV. But more shocking is how the show’s TVR has dipped steadily to the range of 1.3 to 0.8.

This is the second time Shahrukh has faced rejection on the small screen after his show Kya Aap Panchvi Paas Se Tez Hai flopped three years ago.

In fact, Zor Ka Jhatka has got even lesser viewership than Rakhi Ka Insaaf.

Some feel that Shahrukh has not fully committed himself to the show. He did not fly to Argentina to shoot with the contestants but rather shot his portions in a studio. His shots were added to the Argentina shoot on the editing table to give the impression that he was on location.

Shah Rukh’s home Mannat attacked with flaming bottle

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan said on Friday (Feb 13) he was worried for the safety of his wife and two children after his house Mannat was attacked by unknown people who had apparently misinterpreted the lyrics of a song in just-released "Billu" and reacted.

"I got scared. I got worried about my children and wife, but they are fine. I don't think there is any place safer than my home. I'm in London for a check up. I will be back home the day after tomorrow," Shah Rukh told a TV channel over phone from London.

Clarifying the confusion about the lyrics, the actor said: "They thought we are referring to the Prophet in the song. But it has been sorted out. They have seen the film and now it’s clear to them that the lyrics weren't referring to the Prophet."

A burning kerosene bottle had been thrown in the premises of his sea facing house Mannat early in the morning.

According to an officer of Bandra Police station, two men came to Shah Rukh's bungalow, at Bandra Bandstand around 2.30 a.m. They lit a bottle full of kerosene and flung it over the gates before fleeing. The security guards were caught unawares, the police said.

The police said a case was registered and they are searching for the culprits.

There was no damage to property as the flaming missile landed in the garden.

Meanwhile, Shah Rukh will ask you to "wish more" with Dish TV as the company has decided to retain the actor as its brand ambassador for another 18 months.

The company had first tied up with Shah Rukh in 2007.

"Shah Rukh is the undisputed king of Bollywood - the best in his field. He is someone who personifies style, entertainment and popularity and these values resonate perfectly with our brand attributes as well," said Salil Kapoor, COO, Dish TV.

While Dish TV, direct-to-home (DTH) service provider, has renewed its contract with the actor, media reports indicate that soft drink giant Pepsico has decided to drop him as their brand ambassador and find a new face.

SRK: I am becoming narcissistic!

No other actor is Bollywood has the amount of dedication and energy that Shah Rukh Khan possesses. The actor, who is due for surgery soon, attended four functions back-to-back in order to promote the film Billu. In fact, he was so busy that he had no time to attend his good friend Farah Khan's birthday party for her triplets.

Getting down to business, King Khan narrated the synopsis of his latest film first at a press conference. He said, “There is a saying that goes ‘east is east and west is west and never the twain shall meet’. What we wanted to ask is ‘can the twain meet?’ Whether this is possible or not, that’s what the film is centered around. Billu and Bindya are played by Irrfan and Lara respectively. An alien played by me then enters their lives.”

You started a portal called srkworld .com. Do you think that it is the right time to revive it?
I would actually like to because I want to start a site related to me. That and I am becoming more narcissistic by the day. Everywhere, there should be me and no one else! After my surgery is done with, I will get started on this.

You do a lot of promotions for you films through brands. How does this association help your film?
It’s all about give and take. If the film fits into the category of an existing product or one which is going to be launched then media buyers and media sellers will associate that product with the film and both are promoted. For example, Om Shanti Om fits a musical product while Billu suits earthy products- hence plywood.

We heard that you edited two of your scenes so that the focus would be on Irrfan Khan?
We have reedited some scenes- eight to be specific. We felt that the length of the film was too much. If you’re saying the same thing in two scenes then it doesn’t make sense to keep both of them. Editing was not done to promote any actor. It happens with all films. It is called postproduction. The media, however, likes to put its own spin on things.

What’s your take on blogging?
It’s a very connective and vast medium where you can share your thoughts- many stars are into it and it is all very well written. But I think that for me, the media conveys 90% of my thoughts. So what would I write about if I started? I don’t want to talk about my films or where I am shooting. Rather, when I start my portal I will talk about nature and human beings. I would like to talk to the youth and tell them that anything is possible if you work hard.

The word ‘barber’ had to be removed from the title of your film. Do you think it is fair?
Life is not about being fair or unfair. I make films for people. The audience should like it. I have made films which have hurt a few elderly stars and I have personally said sorry to them because it was not intentional. With Billu, the barber’s union told me very emotionally that the Hindi translation of the word ‘barber’ may be misused. I felt the same way so we removed the word. Legally, there was no problem keeping it but we often tease people with the Hindi word- think about it. Anyway, I feel that if a film is good, you can call it Ullu or Billu, people will still come and watch it.

You said that you would like to do an ordinary role in a realistic film. Why didn't you play the lead in Billu?
My director said that no one could play the lead in Billu except for Irrfan. He didn’t want any other big stars, just Irrfan because we all know that he is a brilliant actor. I thought that I should go and fight for the role but then I just let it be because I get to play a superstar- which I am (laughs).

Aamir Khan recently said that you are good at PR but not at marketing. Do you want to prove him wrong?
I don’t take compliments from people very seriously. I know what I have to do when it comes to my job and I don’t need to hear about it from other people. I want people to go watch my film so I promote it. Since I am producing it, it is my responsibility. I don’t think I need to explain myself. People like me, that is why I endorse so many products. Do you think that I have worked hard for 20 years just to make a film to prove to someone that I am also good at marketing? Aamir is a smart guy. I would like to know more about marketing from him.

You have removed ‘barber’ from your film because of protests. In your next film, My Name Is Khan, will you remove the word ‘Khan’ if the public had a problem with it?
I am just hoping that I don't have to remove the word ‘Billu’ from the film too! A man can suddenly come and say ‘My name is Billu’ and I will have to remove it. I really don't want my film to release without name! Then it will be just me, Irrfan and Lara posing for a film without a name.

Madly-in-love Married Couples

Here's celebrating wedded couples who have been together forever but still look like madly-in-love sweethearts. From Gauri and Shah Rukh to Arjun and Mehr and Arbaaz and Malaika, we take a look at them all.

Shah Rukh and Gauri Khan: They have been married since 1991, even before SRK became the superstar he is. Gauri is his anchor, someone who keeps him grounded and she has stuck with him through thick and thin. Their children Aryan and Suhana are being raised to follow Hinduism and Islam. Gauri maintains a low profile; she produces his movies and hosts his parties but doesn't accompany SRK to every second event. She is one of the warmest, most stylish and most hospitable wives in B-town. Together they make a couple that completes each other.

Hrithik and Susanne Roshan: Ah, young love. Hrithik and Susanne are childhood sweethearts. Apparently, he decided to marry her at the age of twelve and finally married her after he became a superstar and became an interior designer. Like SRK and Gauri, this is another interfaith marriage. They have two young sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan. With his Greek God looks and her delicate beauty and grace, they are one of the most beautiful couples in Bollywood.

Arjun and Mehr Rampal: They were both supermodels at the top of their game so being attracted to each other was only expected. Mehr and Arjun are usually seen hand-in-hand at concerts, premieres and parties. The perfectly paired couple have two daughters, Maahika and Myra. Mehr is Arjun's biggest fan; her prayers and love have helped Arjun go from Bollywood struggler to Bollywood biggie. Their compatibility is amazing.

Twinkle and Akshay Kumar: We all know what a playboy Akshay Kumar was before he got married. Twinkle Khanna tamed him and got him to commit to her. They have one young son, Aarav. Akshay may be a superstar today but when Twinkle married him, he wasn't. She keeps him grounded through success and failure. The interior designer with an elite clientele is one of the most stylish and gorgeous star wives in B-town.

Abhishek and Aishwarya Bachchan: Bollywood newest couple (they married in April, 2006) is totally in love. Ash and Abhi are hand-in-hand wherever they go and the newlyweds have eyes only for each other. Luckily for them, they are even doing films together, so they get a chance to mix business with pleasure. We can't wait to hear when the stork will visit this perfect-for-each-other twosome.

Arbaaz and Malaika Khan: This is one of the strongest marriages in B-Town in spite of the wife being more popular than the husband. They have a school-going son, Arhaan and are extremely supportive and secure about each other's career choices. Arbaaz and Malaika have been married for ten years but looking at them, you wouldn't be able to tell because they are still so smitten by each other.

Billu Barber - Movie Review

Priyadarshan is synonymous with ha-ha-thons, but the talented storyteller has been equally proficient while handling intense dramas like SAZA-E-KALA PANI, GARDISH and VIRASAT. Like VIRASAT and MALAMAAL WEEKLY, BILLU, the accomplished director's new outing, is also set in a hamlet.

Although the story has been attempted in Malayalam [KADHA PARAYUMBOL] and Tamil [KUSELAN] earlier, the story actually takes its inspiration from the legendary friendship between Lord Krishna and Sudama. In this case, the story talks of the friendship between a superstar and an ordinary mortal who runs a salon.

BILLU is a simple story about simple people, told in the most simplistic manner. There's a generous dose of glamour as well, given the fact that the protagonist's friend happens to be a superstar, but what actually works for the film is the simpleton's story. He wages a daily battle to make ends meet.

Although the film is engaging, Priyadarshan reserves the best for the finale this time, when the superstar reminisces about his childhood friend and the deep bond that they shared. The end is remarkable and is sure to strike a chord with all sections of moviegoers.

Final word? BILLU is amongst Priyadarshan's finest works. And also Irrfan and SRK's. This tale of friendship is sure to steal your heart!

BILLU tells the story of a simple ordinary man, Bilas Rao Pardesi [Irrfan Khan], living in a small town with his wife Bindiya [Lara Dutta] and two kids. His life undergoes a drastic change as superstar Sahir Khan [Shah Rukh Khan] visits the village for a film shoot. Everything changes. Things go from good to bad to worse to good again.

Ten minutes into the film and you get absorbed into Billu's small world. The salon is in bad shape, the family is facing tough times, the neighbours and acquaintances are fair-weather friends... Billu's life gets grim with each passing day.

The story takes an interesting turn when Billu's life collides with the superstar's. And the assorted characters -- right from an aspiring poet/lyricist [Rajpal Yadav], to a stingy money lender [Om Puri], to the principal of the school [Rasika Joshi] -- everyone wants favours from Billu. These characters only make BILLU more interesting.

SRK's track is equally fascinating and only spices up the proceedings. In fact, Priyadarshan has amalgamated the three songs [featuring SRK with Deepika, Priyanka and Kareena] in the narrative smartly. Not once do you feel that you're watching two stories concurrently.

The best part of the enterprise is its climax. The superstar recalls his humble beginning and how his friend stood by him in times of crisis. The writing is brilliant and SRK only takes the scene to greater heights with his terrific portrayal.

Priyadarshan is adept at handling relationships and with BILLU, he proves he can handle emotions with as much flourish as comedy. To tell a simple, uncomplicated story, without the usual frills, is an arduous task indeed and Priyadarshan tackles the material with remarkable ease. The humour here is subtle, not loud, and a constant smile remains on your face all through.

Mushtaq Shiekh and Priyadarshan's screenplay is foolproof. In fact, the writing never loses focus and the highs and the lows in Billu's life are sensitively penned by the duo. Manisha Korde's dialogues are simple, gelling with the mood of the film.

Pritam's music is energetic. The songs, promoted aggressively prior to the release, only get an impetus thanks to the presence of the three actresses. 'Mar Jaani' and 'Love Mera Hit Hit' are, of course, the pick of the lot. V. Manikandan's cinematography is top notch. The locales [Pollachi] are breath-taking.

In the recent years, Irrfan has emerged as a force to reckon with, his performances have appealed to all strata of moviegoers and his work in BILLU will only cement his status as a remarkable actor. Shah Rukh Khan needs to be admired for two reasons. The show belongs to Irrfan, although SRK could've forced himself in every scene. Also, he has chosen to opt for a film that's not one of those run-of-the-mill types. In terms of performance, SRK shows his true potential towards the finale.

Lara Dutta springs a pleasant surprise. She goes through her part with complete understanding. Om Puri is excellent. Rasika Joshi is too good. Rajpal Yadav is really funny in the penultimate scene, when he recites a film song of an SRK film. Asrani and Manoj Joshi are passable.

On the whole, BILLU is a sweet-n-simple film that lingers in your memory even after the show has concluded. The final 20 minutes are the highpoint of the enterprise and that elevates the status of the film to great heights. The film has the potential to grow with a strong word of mouth. Recommended... Take your family for this one

B.O. update: 'Billu' starts slow, but actual test on Sat./Sun.

The much-awaited BILLU opened to a tepid response of 25% to 35% at various screens across the nation. However, the silver lining is that the film is enjoying positive reports and the next two days [Saturday and Sunday] will be crucial. Most exhibitors aren't surprised with the slow start, since it was evident from the promotion that the story revolves around Irrfan and that it wasn't the conventional SRK film, like OM SHANTI OM.

The other two releases, THE STONEMAN MURDERS and JUGAAD, have also opened with dull collections.

Billu premiere for barbers and hairstylists

In a move to appease the Hairdressers' Associations of Mumbai, Shah Rukh Khan is planning to invite various barbers and hairstylists for the premiere of "Billu", which was earlier titled "Billu Barber".

"As far as I know, Shah Rukh is planning a premiere for the various barbers and hairdressers' associations, so they'd see and know that the film doesn't ridicule them in any way. In fact, the film is a homage to the hair-cutting technique. I can't understand how there can be a protest about the film or its title without anyone seeing the film," Priyadarshan told IANS.

According to Priyadarshan, Shah Rukh is not inviting friends from the industry for the screening.

The film was earlier titled "Billu Barber", but when Hairdressers' Associations of Mumbai objected to the use of the word "barber" in the title, Shah Rukh, who is producing the film and making a guest appearance, decided to change it.

"I'm in Chennai. Shah Rukh Khan tells me all the posters hoarding with credits will blacken out the word 'barber'. If it was hurting anyone's sentiments, I'm okay by it," Priyadarshan said.

He wonders how the word 'barber' could be okay in other languages and not in Hindi.

"Does it mean half the Indian population is not put off by the title and the other half is upset about it? I don't understand the controversy. And I've left it entirely to Shah Rukh to deal with it."

The director has no plans of being in Mumbai for the release of "Billu". "I've done my best. And Irrfan Khan in the title role is the best homage that can be paid to any profession."

Priyan does wonder, and so do we, if we as a collective nation protest too much.

Irrfan Khan plays the title role and is paired with Lara Dutta in the film, which is releasing on Friday (Feb 13). Shah Rukh will make a guest appearance along with Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone.

Miss India Worldwide 2009 contestants watch 'Billu'

Priyadarshan's comedy "Billu", which features a large number of top-notch Bollywood actresses, saw bevy of Indian origin beauties from 25 countries at its premiere in Durban, South Africa.

The 25 young women have assembled here to vie for the Miss India Worldwide 2009 title at the Suncoast Entertainment resort on Saturday (Feb 14) night. And they were excited to take a break from rehearsals on Tuesday (Feb 10) evening to join local celebrities at the premiere of "Billu", hosted by young South African Indian cinema magnate Abie Moosa.

While Lara Dutta is cast opposite Irrfan, who plays the title role, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone feature with Shah Rukh Khan in three different item numbers in the comedy.

"It will be delightful to have a complement of such lovely Indian ladies from across the globe to complement the Indian beauties on the screen," Moosa told IANS.

In keeping with the traditions of the Miss India Worldwide Pageant, started by Dharmatma Saran of the US nearly two decades ago, the contestants have been engaged in a series of visits to local communities and welfare projects for several days now.

On Monday, they were shown the massive Hare Krishna Temple in the huge Indian township of Chatsworth, which has become a popular tourist attraction.

Many of them expressed surprise that there were so many Indians in South Africa, and even that they had been here for nearly 150 years. "It is also wonderful to see the huge cultural diversity in South Africa," said Miss India Australia, Kanchan Verma, a health professional.

Miss India Oman, geneticist Shruti Dilip, said she had watched an impressive Indian dance by "a pint-sized" Indian dancer when they visited historic Gandhian sites in Pietermaritzburg, where the young lawyer Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi started his path to becoming the Mahatma after being kicked off a train by a white conductor.

Miss India Singapore, Asmaa Pandit, a business development consultant, and Miss India India Deepthi Varughese said that Durban with its large Indian population felt "just like being in India".

This is the second consecutive year that South Africa is hosting the Miss India Worldwide Pageant after Shagun Sarabhai of India was crowned the winner in Lenasia, the huge Indian township south of Johannesburg, at a gala event last year. Sarabhai will hand over the crown to her successor on Valentine's Day as another former winner from India, Fareisa Joemmanbaks of Suriname, looks on.

Saran said that he definitely had a soft spot for South Africa: "I have been coming here since 1991, when South Africa was just beginning to regain its international stature ahead of the first democratic elections, and the local franchisee for the Miss India Worldwide Pageant, Farook Khan, started it off here."

Saran said from just 12 countries participating in the initial event, this has now more than doubled, and the high standard of entries was most gratifying as young women in the Diaspora gained the international recognition denied to so many of their forebears.

Billu is a brand new movie

The buzz is that Shah Rukh Khan's "Billu Barber", now renamed "Billu", is inspired by Malayalam hit "Katha Parayumbol" (2007), which was later made in Tamil as "Kuselan" (2008). But the film's writer denies any similarity between the movies.

"'Billu' is a completely different film," said Mushtaq Sheikh, co-writer of "Billu" along with director Priyadarshan.

"When you will see 'Billu', you will know what I mean. The screenplay of 'Billu' does not follow the route followed by the predecessors," said Sheikh, who was also the co-writer of Shah Rukh's blockbuster "Om Shanti Om".

While Mammootty played a superstar in "Katha Parayumbol", its Tamil version starred Rajnikant in the same role.

So has the screenplay of "Billu" been tweaked to make it more suitable for an all-India audience?

"One did not have to tweak it, one had to change it completely. I repeat - this film is a re-birth of 'Billu' (the character in the film). It's a brand new film with no connection with any other film," Sheikh told IANS.

Unlike "Katha Parayumbol", "Kuselan" had bombed in spite of Rajnikant's presence.

"How does that affect our film?" asks Sheikh. "There wasn't any doubt or fear in us when we were working on 'Billu'. 'Kuselan' working or not working was never going to hamper the flow of 'Billu'."

Sheikh added that he and Priyadarshan had sat down to give the film a new "touch and feel".

"This movie was made before and here we wanted to make a brand new film keeping the ingrained soul intact. Also, making a Hindi film is a totally different ball game than the ones that are made in the south. The people, the emotions, the landscape, the conflict - everything changes when we make Hindi movies. We knew it was never going to be easy," he makes a candid confession.

He is particularly ecstatic about the fact that with 'Billu', he could work with his real-life friend Shah Rukh yet again.

"For me Shah Rukh is like a beacon of light that guides me and inspires me. He is like family. He brings in a certain strength to my presence," he said fondly.

Featuring Lara Dutta in the lead with special appearances by Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone, "Billu" also stars Priyadarshan regulars like Asrani, Om Puri, Rajpal Yadav, Manoj Joshi and Rasika Joshi. With music by Pritam, "Billu" is all set to arrive on Feb 13.

"SRK is planning a premiere for barber's associations" - Priyadarshan

It's final. Billu Barber will now be called Billu. And the director Priyadarshan seems resigned to the title's fate. "I'm in Chennai. Mr. Producer Shah Rukh tells me all the posters hoarding with credits will blacken out the word 'Barber'. If it was hurting anyone's sentiments I'm okay by it."

In a flash move to appease the hairdressers' associations of Mumbai, the premiere of Billu in Mumbai later this week will exclusively invite members of various barbers' and hairstylists' associations.

Priyadarshan reveals Billu's premiere plans. "As far as I know, Shah Rukh is planning a premiere for the various barbers and hairdressers' associations, so they'd see and know that the film doesn't ridicule them in any way. In fact Billu is homage to the hair-cutting technique. I can't understand how there can be a protest about the film or its title without anyone seeing the film."

The premiere, according to Priyan, won't invite Shah Rukh's friends from the industry, only members of the hair-cutting community. Priyadarshan wonders how the word 'Barber' could be okay in other languages and not in Hindi. "Does it mean half the Indian population is not put off by the title and the other half is upset about it? I don't understand the controversy. And I've left it entirely to my producer Shah Rukh Khan to deal with it."

Priyan has no plans of being in Mumbai for the release of Billu. "I've done my best. And Irrfan Khan in the title role is the best homage that can be paid to any profession." Priyan does wonder, and so do we, if we as a collective nation protest too much.

Title of SRK's Billu Barber changed

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan will undergo a shoulder surgery soon, but it is not slated for Valentine's Day.

"It is certainly not happening on Feb 14 because Shah Rukh will be in London on that day. The surgery would take place on a later date though that too is not yet fixed," says a source close to the actor.

Though Shah Rukh was advised to undergo the surgery some time ago, it has been postponed a few times already.

His shoulder was injured a long time ago but the condition aggravated on the sets of "Dulha Mil Gaya" in December.

He was suggested rest then, but he couldn't afford to do so since the Viveck Vaswani production had been delayed for about a year and Shah Rukh didn't want any more pain for his producer, sources said.

His condition was kept under control with physiotherapy sessions easing his pain for the time being. Later, he left for Los Angeles because of his prior commitment for Karan Johar's "My Name is Khan".

Adds the source: "For Shah Rukh, the last few months have been quite busy professionally. There was 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' promotion as well as the shoot of 'Dulha Mil Gaya'. Then he couldn't have backed out of 'My Name is Khan', which had anyways been pushed ahead by a few months."

"Moreover, he had to return to India for the publicity of 'Billu Barber', now titled just 'Billu'. Though doctors had suggested a surgery on an ASAP note, he didn't want 'Billu Barber' to suffer. So, even with a sling on, he went through the entire promotional campaign. It was painful but he is passionate about his films and kept smiling."

Since he didn't want to get under the knife before the release of 'Billu' on Feb 13, speculation was that the surgery would be immediately after the release, that is, on Valentine's Day.

However, Shah Rukh told a press conference: "The surgery is not happening on Valentine's Day. I would be in London then and the surgery would now be on a later date."

Apparently, he continues to be in some pain since he tore his tendons. He is able to move around with great difficulty but is trying to keep a brave face, especially since he is going all out for the promotion of "Billu".

The actor has earlier been operated upon for his back and his knees.

Meanwhile, the superstar has agreed to the request of some members of the profession who felt that the use of the word 'barber' was offensive to their community. Hence the film title has been changed.

"What's the harm in doing so when the community, on which the film is based, itself wants this change?" says Shah Rukh.

"I want it to be a happy situation for all and if a minor change to the title has to be made, then I don't see anything wrong in that."

Hairdressers have a problem with Billu Barber

The Salons and Beauty Parlours Association, which has 27000 members in Mumbai itself, has protested against the title of the film “Billu Barber”. They apparently want the title of the film to be changed to “Billu Hairdresser” as they feel the word 'barber' is derogatory.

Shah Rukh Khan meanwhile has tied up with over 400 beauty parlours across Mumbai and has sent them vinyl posters of the film and CDs as part of the promotional campaign.

However, the president of the association has said the word barber is a very insulting term as nowadays hairdressing is an art. He feels an art must be respected be it in any sector. He also said there are many women hairdressers, and imagine them being called barbers.

A special screening of the film has been promised for them and if there's anything objectionable in the film, the association can get it changed. But if it is not changed, the association has threatened to take to the streets to protest against the film.

SRK was shocked at the remarks and said the film is about love, friendship and relationships. He also said it is a very sweet and touching film and does not disrespect anyone.

Produced by SRK's wife Gauri, “Billu Barber” stars Shah Rukh, Irrfan Khan and Lara Dutta and is releasing on February 13, 2009.

SRK slams Slumdog critics

Shahrukh Khan feels there’s no reason for people to become cynical if a film made on Indian uniqueness has made a mark in the world.

It will open doors for people to understand that there is a lot of visual appeal to India. I hear a lot of people saying that India has been shown in bad light in Slumdog Millionaire. But then my logic to everyone is that why is it that somebody comes from outside and makes a film like Gandhi and Slumdog. All we can say about it is that it is showing India in a poor light,” said Khan.

Many critics including Amitabh Bachchan had said that that the film’s a hard-hitting but exuberant tale of life in a Mumbai slum and is being lauded because it has a Westerner at the helm. SRK also took the opportunity to slam the self-styled “moral policing” elements who object to Valentine’s Day. “We should see Valentine’s as a day of friendship and love and not as a western culture attack. I would say all youngsters should give roses to all the people they love in a good way,” said Khan.

Pics: What's been happening in tinseltown

Does Billu spell bad luck? Sharman is giving away 1 crore and feast your eyes on Deepika, Madhuri and Sonam.

Billu Bad Idea? Astro-numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi predicts that the movie will not do well.

"Originally the title of 'Billu Barber' added up to No.29 (2 ) which is also not a positive number but it is one of SRK's best numbers & would have done some damage control. But by now just calling the film 'Billu' is going to 'cut' down the film's prospects ( pun unintended ) further!. 'Billu' now adds up to No.15 (6). Generally, No.6 is harmless but the octave 15 of No.6 does not have a lasting effect & is often bad for people who are born on dates 4 & 8. The producer of the film Gauri Khan, is a No.8 (8th Oct.). Also No.6 represents Venus – the planet of love, peace, harmony etc. To call 'Billu' - a love story would be inappropriate," says Bhavikk

Mad about You: Madhuri looks dazzling in an elegant saree at a hair and make up event in Bandra


Pretty Face: Eesha Koppikhar at another hair event with children from the National Association for the Blind


Leggy Beauty: Sonam Kapoor looks sophisticated in her high waited pants, soft curls and purple clutch at the Russian Film Festival


Poker Face: That is Sharman's new show on Real Channel where he will give away 1 crore rupees


The Fast and the Gorgeous: Deepika arrives in a racing car at an MTV Force India event

Exclusive: SRK checks into Nanavati Hospital

At midnight Shah Rukh Khan made a quiet entry into Nanavati Hospital. The actor was ushered in through the backdoor away from the prying eyes of the public. Cardiologist Dr. R.G Bhagwat ushered the superstar into the hospital.

A source from the hospital says, “The actor will not be going under the knife immediately. He is undergoing preliminary tests at the moment which are essential for anyone before surgery.”

Shah Rukh Khan will undergo surgery on his right shoulder later this week as he has a tear in his supraspintus ligament, which restricts his hand movements.

The actor was supposed to go under the knife only after the release of his film Billu. Speaking in Delhi earlier this week he had said that he would get himself admitted in a couple of days. With Billu set for release today (Friday, February 11), it would make sense for the actor to now get himself treated.

Following his operation King Khan will have to stay in hospital for three to four days and will have to stay away from any stunts or big movements for close to a month. He will have to give a minimum of three weeks of rest to the affected shoulder after which he will have to undergo atleast six weeks of intensive physiotherapy.

Shah Rukh injured his left shoulder while performing an action sequence duringt the shoot of Dulha Mil Gaya. He was recently in the US for a 45 day shoot of Karan Johar’s My Name Is Khan. But with his shoulder injury re-surfacing, Khan took the decision to come back home for surgery.

SRK postpones surgery for Billu Barber

Shah Rukh Khan has decided to postpone his shoulder surgery till the release of Billu Barber. The actor who had flown back to India mid way of his filming schedule for My Name is Khan in Los Angeles to treat his aggravated shoulder, will now only go under the knife once his film releases.

“Shah Rukh wanted to go all out to promote his film Billu Barber. The film has him in a small role but it is a Red Chillies production at the end of the day. So SRK made sure he had enough time to promote his film. Also with Irrfan being busy for the Oscars, SRK has taken it upon to ensure that his film is promoted well,” informs a source close to the actor.

When contacted, SRK’s spokesperson said, “He will go for surgery after the film releases. But the date has not been finalized.”

Speaking about his upcoming surgery at a promotional do for Tag Heuer in Delhi recently, Khan said that he would be going for surgery after wrapping up some commitments.

“My treatment has been delayed because of a few important commitments, one being the TAG Heuer event today, and another is ‘Billu Barber’. Once I’m done with my commitments to the film, I’ll get myself admitted to a hospital for the surgery,” said the actor at the event.

Khan said while he was managing, life was a bit restricted. “I can’t hug as hard as I could. But Vijender (Singh who was also at the event) has promised to train me once I come out of surgery and make me fit again,” signed off Khan with a smile.

SRK’s Billu Barber that also stars Irrfan Pathan and Lara Dutta will release on February 13th.

SRK's IPL Bangla shocker

Englishmen Kevin Pietersen and Andy Flintoff may have won the highest bids at the IPL auction on Friday, but the real jawdropper came from Shah Rukh Khan.

King Khan picked up Bangladeshi fast bowler Mashrafe Mortaza for about Rs 3 crore, 12 times his base price of Rs 25 lakh. Why would SRK do that? The answer is that he thinks neighbouring Bangladesh's TV audience will add value to his team. Brilliant. Fellow Bollywood stars Preity Zinta and Shilpa Shetty were also busy shopping for men. Here's how it played out for all of them.

Kolkata Knight Riders: Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla
New Additions: M Mortaza for 2.94 crores
SRK snapped up Bangladeshi pacer Mashrafe Mortaza this morning in Goa. Coming for just under 3 crores, SRK is hoping for Mortaza to strengthen his bowling line up. And while Mortaza has impressed critics in his international career, Khan will have to hope that he doesn't get plagued down my injuries – something that has hindered Mashrafe's career extensively so far.
Big Guns: Sourav Ganguly, Brad Hodge, Chris Gayle, David Hussey, Ricky Ponting, Tatenda Taibu
Point of Worry: With Pakistani players not being allowed to participate in the IPL, players like Mohammad Hafeez, Salman Butt, Umar Gul and Shoaib Akhtar will be no shows at this year's IPL.
Bollywood Charm: SRK, Juhi, Arjun Rampal, Sajid Khan, Farah Khan

Kings XI Punjab: Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia
New Additions: Ravi Bopara for 2.20 crores and Jerome Taylor for 73.5 lakhs
Preity has added two new players to her young team. Ravi Bopara who has been impressing domestic and international audiences with his form will join Yuvraj Singh's team. Also signed on is right handed fast West Indian bowler Jerome Taylor who will help back the young cricketers.
Big Guns: Yuvraj Singh, Brett Lee, Irfan Pathan, Kumar Sangakarra, Mahela Jayawardena, Shaun Marsh, Simon Katich and Sreesanth.
Bollywood Charm: Preity Zinta

Rajasthan Royals: Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra
New Additions: Shaun Tait for 1.83 crores and Tyron Andserson for 3.18 crores
Last year's winners Rajasthan Royals have further strengthened their team by adding Kiwi player Shaun Tait. Known for his strong bowling action, Tait is known to have brought the strongest international teams to their knees with his fast ones. Royals have also taken on Tyron Anderson for over 3 crores
Big Guns: Shane Warne, Shaun Tait, Darren Lehman, Mohammed Kaif, Shane Watson, Yusuf Pathan
Point of Worry: Like KKR, Rajasthan Royals had also signed on Pakistani cricketers like Kamran Akmal, Sohail Tanvir and Younus Khan. All these three will be unavailable this year.

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Vijay Mallaya
New Additions: Kevin Pieterson for 7.5 crores and Jesse Ryder for 78.4 lakhs.
Vijay Mallaya had a very disappointing start to the IPL. And therefore we are not surprised to see him go all out and snap up the most expensive and also one of the most talented international players for his team. Kevin Pieterson has become the most expensive player to be bought superseding M S Dhoni's price.
Big Guns: Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Jacques Kallis, Mark Boucher, Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Zaheer Khan.
Point of Worry: Misbah-Ul-Haq from Pakistan has dropped out of the running.
Bollywood Charm: Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif

Chennai Super Kings: India Cements
New Additions: Andrew Flintoff for 7.5 crores, Thilan Thusara for 68.6 lakhs and George Bailey for 24.5 lakhs.
Headed by M S Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings have made also snapped up the most expensive player for this season. Andrew Flintoff from England has been taken over for 7.5 crores. Thilan on the other hand is a Sri Lankan all rounder.
Big Guns: Andrew Flintoff, M S Dhoni, Makhaya Ntini, Mathhew Hayden, Michael Hussey, Murali Murlitharan,
Bollywood Charm: Amrita Rao

Delhi Daredevils: GMR Holdings
New Additions: Owais Shah and Paul Collingwood for 1.34 crores
Delhi Daredevils have taken on a batsman in Owais and an all rounder in Paul Collingwood. Both English cricketers have been farely successful n the one day format and should therefore help back up Sehwag's team.
Big Guns: Virender Sehwag, Daniel Vettori, Gautam Gambhir, Glenn McGrath
Point of Worry: Mohammad Asif and Shoaib Malik won't be a part of the line up this year.

Mumbai Indians: Reliance Industries
New Additions: J P Duminy for 4.65 crores, Kyle Mills for 73.5 lakhs and Mohammad Ashraful for 36.75 lakhs
The Mumbai Indians have signed on South African batsman to help support the storng team that has the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Jayasuriya and Shaun Pollock as well.
Big Guns: Sachin Tendulkar, Andre Nel, Harbhajan Singh, Robin Uthappa, Sanath Jayasuriya, Shaun Pollock
Bollywood Charm: Hrithik Roshan

Deccan Chargers: India Cements
New Additions: Fidel Edwards for 75.3 lakhs and Dwayne Smith for 49 lakhs.
West Indian bowler has been picked up by V V S Laxman to help bowler R P Singh. Also signed up is Dwayne Smith who was earlier with the Mumbai Indians.
Big Guns: V V S Laxman, Adam Gilchrist, Andrew Symonds, Chaminda Vas, Herschelle Gibbs, Rohit Sharma and R P Singh
Point of Worry: All rounder Shahid Afridi is out of running.

I'd like to get my surgery done on V-day: SRK

Shah Rukh Khan has grand plans for Valentine’s Day, but not with wife Gauri. On a recent visit to Delhi, the actor said that it might be the perfect day to have his long delayed shoulder surgery.

I usually don’t do anything on Valentine’s Day, so I’d like to get my surgery done then. It’s just that there’s so much work – I can’t afford to be lying flat on a hospital bed for a month. I do need this surgery, but once my movie Billu Barber is placed well, I’ll have more time,” he explains.

It’s not only movies that are keeping SRK from getting that surgery done. There’s also IPL. “There’s some planning to be done. In fact, I had a meeting regarding that two days ago in Delhi. But I don’t think that recession is going to affect IPL. I don’t even think recession is the word for the situation India is in. I would call it a time for ‘correction of figures’.” A correction in the figure that he charges, too? “I don’t think I’ll have to make much modification. I’ve never overcharged or undercharged. In both the film industry and the IPL, I don’t think we should jump to conclusions,” Shah Rukh says. And what about Shilpa Shetty entering the IPL fray? “All the best to her. I’m sure she took this decision after great consideration. I’d like all the teams to win, but I’ll be backing my own, of course!” he smiles.

Of course, no session with SRK is complete without the man’s display of wit. To a female photographer, he said, “For you, darling, I can remove my jacket and even my shirt! However, I don’t have anything written across my chest.” Was that a dig at ‘good friend’ Aamir Khan? “I’m not taking a dig at him or anyone else. It was just a joke. He does it too. There are certain things that others say in public, though, and I don’t like it. So I guess I’ll meet him soon and have a talk with him,” he says.

What he has done, however, is make it to many star lists – the sexiest, the hottest, the most popular ... His take on the lists is, “I don’t understand these lists. I am on so many of them. Who makes these lists? I am the list!” And is he playing Mogambo in the new Mr India? “Mogambo, me? Come on, I’m a handsome young guy,” he laughs.