Amitabh Bachchan shares a throwback picture with Raj Kapoor and Shashi Kapoor

Amitabh Bachchan, who shared screen space with Shashi Kapoor in films like Deewar, Kabhi Kabhie and Shaan, posted a rare picture with the actor and his elder brother Raj Kapoor. Big B took to Twitter to give his a fans a glimpse of his camaraderie with the Kapoors.

The 73-year-old actor shared a throwback picture with the two actors from one of their trips to Tashkent. Reminiscing the good old times, Amitabh Bachchan posted a picture of the three singing 'Saare Jaahan Se Acha.'

The association between Shashi Kapoor and Big B started in the 70s, when the two went on to star together in a handful of films. Be it Trishul or Shaan, the two gave their fans some of the most memorable performances. They were last seen together on screen in the 1982 film Namak Halal.

On the work front, Amitabh Bachchan is awaiting the release of his upcoming film Wazir. The actor will play the role of a chess grandmaster in the Bejoy Nambiar film. Wazir, which also stars Farhan Akhtar and Aditi Rao Hydari, is set to hit the screens on January 7, 2016.

Source:http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/photo-of-the-day-amitabh-bachchan-shares-a-throwback-picture-with-raj-kapoor-and-shashi-kapoor/1/558552.html

Amitabh Bachchan praises 'Bajirao Mastani', curious to watch 'Dilwale'

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has lauded filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's latest release 'Bajirao Mastani' and is now curious to watch Rohit Shetty's 'Dilwale'.

Big B has called Bhansali a 'master behind the camera' and have labelled actors Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra, who are a part of the film as 'extraordinary talent'.

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has lauded filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's latest release 'Bajirao Mastani' and is now curious to watch Rohit Shetty's 'Dilwale'.

Blessed to be in times of 'BajiRao Mastani' the film by a master behind the camera and a host of extraordinary talent in front of it," the 73-year-old tweeted on Tuesday night.

He also shared that he is waiting to see filmmaker Rohit Shetty's 'Dilwale', which stars Bollywood's iconic couple Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol.

And I wait to see the other, delectable 'Dilwale' soon ... as promised to SRK and Kaajol last night," he added.

Meanwhile, the cinematic icon is currently shooting for "TE3N" along with actors Vidya Balan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in Kolkata. The film is slated to hit the screens in 2016.

He will next be seen in Bejoy Nambiar's forthcoming film 'Wazir', which also stars actor Farhan Akhtar, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Aditi Rao Hydari. 'Wazir' is slated to hit the screens on January 8.

Source:http://www.ibnlive.com/news/movies/amitabh-bachchan-praises-bajirao-mastani-curious-to-watch-dilwale-1180978.html

National Herald case: Amitabh Bachchan holds 1 lakh shares in Associated Journals Ltd?

According to an investigation done by Zee News, Abhim Investment (P) Ltd holds 1 lakh shares in Associated Journals Ltd (AJL).

Here, the interesting fact about this company is that its address has been listed as Pratiksha, Plot No 14, 10th Road, Juhu Scheme Mumbai, the same as the residence of Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan.

Most of the fans of Big B know Pratiksha as his address. 

When Zee News questioned Amitabh Bachchan about the Abhim Investment (P) Ltd's address registered as his bungalow Pratiksha, the Bollywood superstar gave no reply. Also, director Vidhu Vinod Chopra who was with Amitabh Bachchan asked the Zee News reporter to stick to the questions related to promotion of his upcoming film Wazir.

Also, the investigation reveals that most of the shareholders in Associated Journals Ltd were close and known to the Gandhi family.

Several shareholders of Associated Journals Ltd (AJL) have claimed that the company did not inform them or obtain their approval while deciding to transfer its entire equity to Young Indian Pvt Ltd (YIL) - a firm in which Sonia and Rahul Gandhi each own a 38 percent stake - in December 2010. 

On June 26, the trial court issued summons to the Congress leaders on BJP leader Subramanian Swamy's complaint about "cheating" in the acquisition of Associated Journals Ltd (AJL) by Young India Ltd. (YIL).

The BJP leader had claimed that Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, as majority shareholders of YIL, benefited from the acquisition of AJL. He alleged that AJL had received an interest-free loan of Rs 90.25 crore from the Congress and that the party transferred the debt to YIL for Rs 50 lakh.

Source:http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/national-herald-case-amitabh-bachchan-holds-1-lakh-shares-in-associated-journals-ltd_1834575.html

His performances are without fault': Amitabh Bachchan on the influence of Dilip Kumar

Amitabh Bachchan has hero-worshipped Dilip Kumar from the time he decided to become an actor. We can see traces of the Tragedy King's style in the Bachchan's early performances in Saat Hindustani, Anand and Parwaana. Later in Ramesh Sippy's historic Shakti, he got an opportunity to share screen space with his idol. In a chat withFirstpost, Bachchan talks about the actor who influenced him the most:

Dilip Saab turns 93. Your thoughts?
I wish him glorious health. I wish him peace of mind. I wish him this days’ celebration, countless years ahead.

You've never concealed our admiration for Dilip Kumar. What makes him a role model for you and generations of other actors?
I have admired his performances, for to me they have remained beyond any fault. I have admired his intellect, and the way he has translated that into his work. And I have admired his clarity of speech in whichever language he speaks. Clarity in speech is to me the greatest acumen for an actor. You cannot have clarity of speech without the understanding of its graph and tenor. You cannot be a great actor without the benefit of these two elements in your expression – graph and tenor !

Amitabh Bachchan and Dilip Kumar. Image from IBN Live.

Which of your performances, scenes, have been most directly inspired by Dilip Saab?
None. That would be a sacrilege! I should be inspired by ‘the person’, to inspire me to perform or deliver what is asked of me professionally.

Please tell us about your first meeting with him
Our first shooting scene in Shakti was in a jail sequence, where the police official, but also my Father in film, comes to visit me and tries to convince me that I was taking a wrong path in life and I disagree. It was tough to stand in front of one whom you have admired for ages, and disagree with. But it was a job I had to do.

What were you thoughts when Ramesh Sippy offered you a chance to work with him in Shakti?
It was not Ramesh ji that offered me the chance to work with him; it was Salim-Javed who thought up the idea and the story.

What was the experience like? Did the two of you hit it off instantaneously? How easy/difficult was it fir you to adapt yourself to his method of working?
For me it was a moment of disbelief, until professional exigencies took over. He is a considerate colleague and senior, and never failed in those attributes when we worked together. I would one day share the same screen space with this tremendous talent that would explode in front of me. Never. And it still remains a illusion in my life to have actually been a part of a project which was headed by this thespian. God has been kind, very kind .

You did only one film with him. Any regrets about that?
We seek a moment of Godliness often in our life; it seldom comes, but when it does, you cherish it and remain in gratitude and satisfaction.

Which are your favourite films of Dilip Saab? And why?
All. And why? That would be insolent.

Many of his admirers feel he didn't do enough work, that he retired too early. Your comments?
Describe 'enough'. Can you ? No one has the ability to describe it for another. Our individual capacity gives us the liberty to describe it for ourselves. We need to respect that.

If you had the chance to do one of Yusuf Saab's roles which one would it be?
I would never dare to even think of doing that .

Source:http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/his-performances-remain-without-fault-amitabh-bachchan-on-the-influence-of-dilip-kumar-on-his-93rd-birthday-2541866.html

Chennai rains: Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and other stars pray for residents' safety

Shah Rukh Khan: May God look after all our brothers & sisters in Chennai. Nature’s fury is strong may we all have the strength to fight it. Insha Allah

Amitabh Bachchan: Chennai deluged! Prayers for safety and calm soon... So heart-warming to see immense voluntary help coming by.

Anil Kapoor: As #ChennaiFloods continue to wreak havoc, stories of brave folks opening up their homes and hearts to save others offer a sliver of hope.

Abhishek Bachchan: Thank you all for the concern. Am safe and dry. Thoughts and prayers with the people more severely affected. #ChennaiFloods

Riteish Deshmukh: Pained to see the images on the news channels. Prayers with the people severely affected. #ChennaiFloods

Varun Dhawan: My heart goes out to all the victims of the #ChennaiFloods. Praying for them and their families.

Raveena Tandon: #chennaifloods and to encourage rainwater harvesting, even though we ruined lake cities like Bangalore, now faces water shortage, with overdevelopment.

Sonakshi Sinha: Praying for all affected in the #ChennaiFloods... Hope all gets ok soon!.

Mallika Sherawat: Praying for all affected in #ChennaiFloods. Hope it gets ok soon.

Daisy Shah: Prayers for those who are severely affected #ChennaiFloods.

Source:http://www.ibnlive.com/news/movies/chennai-rains-amitabh-bachchan-shah-rukh-khan-and-other-stars-pray-for-residents-safety-1171857.html

Ranveer Singh's Bajirao Line by Amitabh Bachchan in 'Epic' Dubsmash

We'd have to agree with Ranveer Singh when he describes the video he's attached in his tweet below as 'epic.' You know you've scored what's essentially the Holy Grail of Bollywood Dubsmashes when it's Amitabh Bachchan mouthing your dialogue from your next movie:
Big B, 73, is feted for his booming baritone and his own dialogues from films over the years are much in demand for enthusiastic Dubsmashers. So move over Sonakshi Sinha and fellow celebrity lip-syncers, it doesn't get any bigger than this.

The line Big B was Dubsmashing is from Ranveer's new film Bajirao Mastani. Ranveer and hisLadies Vs Ricky Bahl co-star Parineeti Chopra were on Aaj Ki Raat Hai Zindagi, the TV talk show Amitabh Bachchan hosts.

Bajirao Mastani, a period piece directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, also stars Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra and releases on December 18.

Source:http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/ranveer-singhs-bajirao-line-by-amitabh-bachchan-in-epic-dubsmash-1247753

Amitabh Bachchan's powerful mind sets him apart from the rest: Anil Kapoor

Actor Anil Kapoor considers megastar Amitabh Bachchan as his inspiration and feels that he has the greatest and the "most powerful mind" which sets him apart from the rest.

"Amitji (Bachchan) has been my inspiration. I've always said that and I still maintain it because I feel it's his mind. I feel the greatest mind and the most powerful mind in past, present or future is of Amitji," Anil said about Big B at the launch of Shilpa Shetty's book "The Great Indian Diet" here.

Anil also said he is "excited" to learn from Big B.

"I'm more excited to learn something from him that how he has looked and performed professionally, personally in society. We have to ask him what's been his secret. All the events that he goes, he's one of our greatest examples and there's so much to learn from you sir," he added.

The "Slumdog Millionaire" actor is often complimented for his looks and the fact that he doesn't look 58 years old.

But despite that, he still says that "there's a long way to go" as far as fitness is concerned.

"Of course, I'm ageing. Everybody knows it and I know it. I'm not delusional about it. Of course with age you get emotional and that's the first sign of old age that you get very sentimental."

"For me, it's very simple; it's the mind and your lifestyle. I'm a good listener, I just want to listen. I'm a learner, I want to learn and I want to educate myself." he added.

Source:http://www.ibnlive.com/news/movies/amitabh-bachchans-powerful-mind-sets-him-apart-from-the-rest-anil-kapoor-1166861.html

Prejudices against communities are dividing the world: Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan spoke about the contribution of India cinema in creating an environment of communal amity and love when "cultures are being questioned and prejudices against communities are dividing the world".

"The Indian cinema from its beginning has taught us the lessons of finding love, justice and social unity. And most importantly the banishment of communal prejudices and hatred," Bachchan said in his speech at the 21st Kolkata International Film Festival.

Amitabh Bachchan's comments come when there is an ongoing debate on intolerance in the country which has led to several eminent artists returning their awards.

"It is essential to recall the lessons of equality and cultural diversity taught by Rabindranath Tagore at a time when cultures are being questioned and prejudices against communities are dividing the world," Bachchan said.

He quoted Tagore's poetry and said the Bard's lines should be remembered for "signifying Mother India's unconditional love for all children and are relevant in holding together India's diversity and the spirit of equality."

Source:http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/prejudices-against-communities-are-dividing-the-world-amitabh-bachchan/1/523198.html

Amitabh Bachchan Loves Video Chatting With Aaradhya

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan said that he loves video chatting with his granddaughter Aaradhya whenever she is travelling.

Big B, whose latest initiative to connect with his fans and well-wishers across the globe is Wakau - a celebrity video blogging application - which he launched last month, said that he is not very conversant with video chatting applications like Skype and FaceTime.

"I still have not been able to get very acquainted with FaceTime or Skype and I have problems with them," Mr Bachchan told IANS.

But the 73-year-old star said that that his son, actor Abhishek Bachchan helps him stay connected to Aaradhya whenever she is on the move.

"But every time my family travels, particularly my granddaughter, it's a joy for Abhishek to come to me and say, 'Hey when did you speak to Aaradhya last?' so I said, 'When she left'. So he'd FaceTime with her. It's just these little things that children or grandchildren do for you, which makes life a lot easier helpful," he added.

On the silver screen, Big B will next be seen in Bijoy Nambiar's Wazir along with actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar.

Mr Bachchan will also be seen doing a cameo with his wife Jaya in R Balki's upcoming romantic film Ki And Ka, starring Arjun Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Source:http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-loves-video-chatting-with-aaradhya-1241594

Amitabh Bachchan defaulted on US summons: Separatist Sikh body

A New York-based Sikh advocacy group has claimed that Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has failed to respond to summons issued by a US court on allegation of human rights violations in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and sought a verdict in absentia against him. "We have asked Hollywood Federal Court to issue a default judgment against Bachchan because he failed to respond within days after receiving summons as prescribed by the Federal Rules," said attorney Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, legal advisor to Sikh For Justice (SFJ). "It is our resolve to invoke every provision of international law to hold perpetrators of violence against Sikhs accountable in international forums," he said. SFJ filed motion for default judgment against Bachchan on October 28 after it said that he did not respond to the Los Angeles Court summons in 1984 anti-Sikh violence case. The group claims that the court motion was duly served to the Bollywood star through proper channel. In support of its claims, SFJ submitted a communication from Indian Ministry of Law and Justice that acknowledges receipt of summons from US Court for service on Bachchan pursuant to the Hague Service Convention.

Source: http://www.oneindia.com/india/amitabh-bachchan-defaulted-on-us-summons-separatist-sikh-body-1917027.html

Amitabh Bachchan Launches Video Blogging App

In a quest to constantly keep his fans abreast of his activities and surroundings, megastar Amitabh Bachchan will now let his "extended family" into his candid thoughts and moments via freemium celebrity video blogging app Wakau.

The 73-year-old, an avid user of social media platforms that bring him closer to his fans, launched Wakau on Thursday.

Talking about this association, Amitabh told IANS: "It's very unique. It's an application that needs to be downloaded on your smartphone, and once you download the application, you get a list of various celebrities that are on Wakau.

"You can punch in your favourite celebrity and they will speak on various issues... they could be very intimate conversations, important moments in their lives, or they could do a tour of their house."

He said this "is just another fantastic facility for celebrities to be able to interact with well-wishers and fans".

Other celebrities who will connect with their fans via Wakau include names like Sachin Tendulkar, Arjun Kapoor, Ayushmann Khurrana, Nirahua, Shaan, Manju Warrier, Tamannaah Bhatia, Sophie Choudry, Arman Malik and Elli Avram.

Asked if this application will help in greater connect with the audience, the "Paa" actor said: "Yes, of course, how many fans get an opportunity to hear their celebrities in person... So here is an added advantage."

The video blogging application is available across iOS, Windows and Android formats.

Officials who have been involved in its development feel it will satiate cinema and sports buffs' desire to know more about the stars.

"Wakau is a great opportunity for celebrities to connect with their fans and share personal stories, interests, sepia moments and cherished thoughts through their video blogs," Rishi Negi, executive vice president - Operations, CA Media India, said in a statement.

Rajan Navani, vice chairman and managing director, Jetsynthesys, said: "With a deep focus on creating a personal connect with the consumer through leveraging analytics, the Wakau experience will eventually pave the way towards many firsts for the world."

Source:http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/hindi/Wakau-Amitabh-Bachchan-Launches-Video-Blogging-App/2015/10/29/article3103921.ece

Amitabh Bachchan: Singing Has Become Less Bothersome With Auto Tuners

Actor Amitabh Bachchan said that singing has become easy these days with the advent of auto tuners.

The 73-year-old actor, who is currently hosting the television show Aaj Ki Raat Hai Zindagi, has sung the title track of the show.

"It's a complex world -music. It's gaining knowledge of the electronics more than getting to hit the right notes, in this field. What could possibly go wrong is now being handled by computer intelligence and power. Singing is the least bothersome task with auto tuners around in abundance," Mr Bachchan wrote on his official blog.

The Piku star also said that music plays a vital role in one's life.

"It is a labour of love and feeling. That to me is more than what the outcome of such endeavour shall be. One forgets the time, the hour the desires of normal existence, food, water and temperature. It's just another world. 'Music if it had not been in our lives, then life would have been a mistake'," he added.

Meanwhile, Mr Bachchan is gearing up for the release of Bejoy Nambiar's Wazir, which will release on December 4.

Source:http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-singing-has-become-less-bothersome-with-auto-tuners-1236140

Amitabh Bachchan and Maharashtra Finance Minister Mugantiwar flag off tiger conservation bike rally

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchanand Maharashtra Finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar on Saturday flagged off a bike rally, covering four out of the six tiger reserves in the state, in support of the government's 'Save Tiger' campaign.

"Through this bike rally, the government wants to promote the concept of Tiger Conservation among people and make them realise the important role these animals play in the food chain.

The group of bikers will also instill among people our plans to enhance the number of tigers in Maharashtra and seek their assistance in doing so," Mungantiwar said on sidelines of flagging off the rally at Bachchan's office 'Janak' in suburban Juhu in Mumbai at 7 am. He further said the seven-day rally that will pass through Melghat, Pench, Navegaon-Nagzira and Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserves will also promote eco-tourism and thereby help in generating employment in the long run.

Source:http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-amitabh-bachchan-and-maharashtra-finance-minister-mugantiwar-flag-off-tiger-conservation-bike-rally-2138130

Amitabh Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan in Dhoom 4

Hrithik Roshan is coming back to the Dhoom franchise after he played the role of the master thief and disguise expert in Dhoom 2. To top it off, Amitabh Bachchan has also been reportedly signed on for the film . Will he play the role of ACP Jai Dikshit or some other character carved iut for him is yet to be known.

We would love to have John Abraham make a vengeful comeback to the franchise which he made famous as the baddie. We can try to get rid of Junior Bachchan if Senior Bachchan is in the movie. Or is Big B doing the film because his son is not a part of the film? Anyway, we hope the comic relief in the form of Uday Chopra as Ali who keeps dreaming of getting married to a hot woman and have more than a couple of kids while he keeps talking to his late mother in the heavens is definitely a part of the film.

According to a media report, Hrithik Roshan will be the main villain in the fourth installment of the film. Vijay Krishna Acharya aka Victor, the director of the film is all set to come back with a bang and a hotter plot. We hope the plot is made to be believable unlike the BMW motorbike that Aamir Khan rode which was capable of becoming a jet ski. Even Batman movies don’t have such crazy gadgets!

Amitabh Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan were last seen together in Lakshya directed by Farhan Akhtar. It is being touted that the drama in the fourth film could be keeping these two actors in mind. Release dates, other actors, spoilers and a ton of information is yet to be released or ‘leaked’ so keep calm as we follow the news and bring you the latest updates.

Source:http://www.india.com/showbiz/amitabh-bachchan-hrithik-roshan-in-dhoom-4-634158/

Amitabh Bachchan's granddaughter Navya Naveli to make her debut in high-society Parisian ball

17-year-old Navya, who is also the great grand daughter of Raj Kapoor, has films in her lineage. But the young girl has till now been kept away from the limelight. Navya, who is currently in studying London, has already started preparing for the ball which, according to Forbes, is one of the hottest parties in world.

Created by Ophélie Renouard in 1992, the ball marks cosmopolitan girls’ entry into the worlds of couture and media, which they often are gaining access to for the first time. It is held each year on Thanksgiving weekend in Paris.

So how is Navya preparing for her grand debut? "I’m going to be taking some dance lessons, so that my dancing is up to the mark, and also I will be going to the fittings to make sure that my dresses are fine, and also practicing walking in heels, because that’s unusual for me. I shall be walking around my bedroom in heels and trying to make sure that I don’t fell over." A Parisian make up artist is also working with her and her mother Shweta Nanda closely to make her look absolutely perfect on the big day.

Will Amitabh Bachchan be attending his granddaughter's big day? ""He’s so busy. He’s doing so many things, but they are the apples of his eye, his grandchildren, so we hope he’ll be able to make it and to see her in this way. It’s a first for all of us and we’re all very excited."

Source:http://www.ibnlive.com/news/buzz/amitabh-bachchans-granddaughter-navya-naveli-to-make-her-debut-in-high-society-parisian-ball-1150747.html

Amitabh Bachchan to shoot for Kerala, in Kolkata

Bachchan Senior has allotted dates for Vibhu Puri’s next film, reportedly titled Kerala. The shoot for the movie will see him return to Kolkata, where he previously shot for Piku
It’s back to Kolkata for Amitabh Bachchan, who had previously shot a portion of Shoojit Sircar’s Piku in the city. We have learnt that the Big B, who has had several meetings with Sujoy Ghosh for an upcoming movie, has allotted his dates for the same. While Sujoy has penned the script of this film, Vibhu Puri will be directing it. Nawazuddin Siddiqui also stars in the movie.
A source connected to the film told us, “Sujoy will be meeting Mr Bachchan again this week and finalise the other details of the project. The fact is that Mr Bachchan has given his dates and the shooting will take place in Kolkata. Earlier, it was going to take place in Kerala but now it seems there is a change of plan.”
Reportedly it was Mr Bachchan’s idea to get Sujoy to write a story keeping him and Nawaz in mind. Our source says, “Mr Bachchan was keen to collaborate with Nawaz on screen and he trusted Sujoy to pen an engaging script. Now everything is finalised and the shooting will take place next month. Mr Bachchan is excited to go back to Kolkata again. Currently he is also committed to a TV show that requires him to shoot once in a week.”The film is reportedly titled Kerala.

Source:http://www.asianage.com/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-shoot-kerala-kolkata-616

When Amitabh Bachchan Was 'Chased' by a Tiger for 4 Km

On Facebook, he added: "In the company of the Big Cat, in the heart of the city. You cannot imagine the forests that abound in the heart of urban Mumbai. This tiger chased us for 4 kms, very unusual. They do not normally do this. It is in the SGNP Reserve, right within the Film City, where we work so often. Incredible!" 

Big B was at the reserve for the official launch of the Maharashtra government's tiger preservation campaign, of which he is the ambassador. 

"Driving to the functions to honour a week of this activity as a campaign, one passes through some of the thickest forest edifices that abound in the heart of the city. It is within the premises of the Film City. Many a time leopards have paid us a visit on our sets or our shootings. Many have been trapped and put back into the forest, if they were to wander beyond, but yes, they do stroll around a bit to catch a glimpse of the stars that work within. This has been a revelation. 45 years in the city and never seen the beauty of these natural habitats that abound within the heart of the city. Its lungs!," he wrote on his official blog. 

Amitabh Bachchan was last seen in Piku with Deepika Padukone and has Wazir with Farhan Akhtar coming up.

Source:http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/when-amitabh-bachchan-was-chased-by-a-tiger-for-4-km-1229151

Amitabh Bachchan to launch 2 safari buses in new role as tiger ambassador

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan will make his first public appearance at Sanjay Gandhi National Park on Tuesday, Oct 6 in his new role as the tiger ambassador of Maharashtra and launch two new safari buses. The buses, bearing the imprint of tigers and lions and to be used for separate wildlife tours of these big cats in the sprawling green belt located within the city limits, will be unveiled at an event being organised as part of the "Wildlife Week Celebrations" during October 1-7.

The function will be presided over by Maharashtra Ministers Sudhir Mungantiwar (Forest), Vinod Tawde (Education) and Ramdas Kadam (Environment). During the event, a short film on the park in suburban Borivali will also be screened. A compendium of photographs of all the 35 leopards, which were recorded during a study conducted recently by using camera traps will be released, Mungantiwar told reporters today. While a study revealed a shocking dip in the tiger numbers in a few States, their population in Maharashtra has recorded a steady increase in the recent times. Tiger population in Maharashtra was 169 in 2010, which shot up to 190 in 2014, indicating the success of conservation measures initiated by the Forest Department. A fresh assessment made by the State during 2015 revealed an even higher count of 203, he said. The persistent efforts of the Forest Department towards tiger conservation have led to this increase, Mungantiwar said. In recognition of these efforts, Maharashtra was presented with the 'Best Tiger State Award' by Sanctuary Asia, he said. It is a known fact that the tiger is at the top of the forest ecosystem and a healthy increase in its population is indicative of the health of forests and overall ecosystem, the Minister. The appointment of an iconic figure like Bachchan as tiger ambassador is expected to give a tremendous boost to the conservation efforts and lift the morale of frontline staff of the Forest Department, he said.

Source: http://www.oneindia.com/india/amitabh-bachchan-to-launch-2-safari-buses-in-new-role-as-tiger-ambassador-1890427.html

Not Akshay Kumar, but Amitabh Bachchan to co-host 'Bigg Boss 9' with Salman Khan

Co-incidentally, the upcoming season of Bigg Boss will kick start on Amitabh's 73rd birthday which is on October 11 and if reports are to be believed ''Dabangg' Salman Khan and the whole team are willing to invite senior Bachchan for the show's premiere.

Earlier, there were rumours that Akshay Kumar will be co-hosting "Bigg Boss 9" with Salman Khan. However, the "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" actor denied the rumours.

The upcoming season will see Salman return as the host for the sixth time.

"Bigg Boss", an Indian version of international reality show "Bigg Brother", sees a number of celebrity contestants living in a house under the surveillance of 24-hour multi-cameras.

The 49-year-old "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" star, who had been hosting the show from past five seasons, quit after the last season was extended into a limited series called "Bigg Boss Halla Bol".

The show will go on air from October 11.

Source:http://www.abplive.in/tv/2015/10/03/article730643.ece/Not-Akshay-Kumar-but-Amitabh-Bachchan-to-co-host-Bigg-Boss-9-with-Salman-Khan

Is There Anything Amitabh Bachchan Cannot Do? Now, He Choreographs

Amitabh Bachchan, who will be seen in a "never-seen-before" persona in upcoming TV showAaj Ki Raat Hai Zindagi, was so excited about the project that he decided to choreograph the trailer himself. 

The newly launched trailer of the show features Mr Bachchan standing in an elevator and breaking into an impromptu jig.

The 72-year-old star, who is returning to Star Plus after over 15 years, is personally looking into every aspect of the show - be it the music or content.

"Big B has donned the hat of a choreographer for the show's trailer. He, along with a dance troupe created the clap dance moves. This has now become the signature step for the show and will be seen across all promos," a source said.

Source:http://movies.ndtv.com/television/is-there-anything-amitabh-bachchan-cannot-do-now-he-choreographs-1224409

Amitabh Bachchan, Lata Mangeshkar remember Yash Chopra on birth anniversary

Bollywood celebrities Amitabh Bachchan and Lata Mangeshkar today paid tribute to ace filmmaker Yash Chopra on his 83rd birth anniversary.

Yash Chopra, who was born in Lahore in 1932, worked with Bachchan, 72, in “Deewar”, “Kabhi Kabhie”, “Trishul”, “Kaala Patthar”, “Silsila”, “Mohabatein”, “Veera Zaara” and “Bunty Aur Babli”.

Bachchan shared several black-and-white pictures of them together on his Twitter page.

“Yash ji’s birth anniversary… Yash Chopra and the glorious times spent together…,” he captioned the pictures.
Mangeshkar, who lent her voice in most of Chopra’s films, shared that she always considered him as her elder brother.

“Today is Yash Chopra birth anniversary, He was like my elder brother. He was a famous director and producer but more than that he was a great person,” she said.

On the special day, Yash Chopra’s elder son Aditya announced that he is returning as a director with his upcoming project “Befikre – Those Who Dare To Love” after a gap of seven years.

His younger son Uday, the head of YRF Entertainment, their home banner’s international arm, wrote, “Happy birth anniversary dad!! And happy to see my brothers next movie being announced today #Befikre #TodayIsAGoodDay.”

Chopra began his career as an assistant director to his elder brother B R Chopra and directed his own first film ‘Dhool Ka Phool’ in 1959.

Director Karan Johar call Chopra him his “favourite filmmaker” and “a father figure”.

“Happy birthday Yash uncle….you sold dreams like no one else can,” Karan added.

Divya Dutta, who got the opportunity to work with the director in “Veer Zaara”, posted, “Remembering yash uncle on his bday!! He made sure he always called to wsh me on mine.. Warmth personified! You are missed Yash Chopra!!”

Source:http://www.financialexpress.com/article/lifestyle/showbiz/amitabh-bachchan-lata-mangeshkar-remember-yash-chopra-on-birth-anniversary/142211/

Amitabh Bachchan gives up LPG subsidy, joins the #GiveItUp movement

Heeding to Prime Minister Narendra Modis call, superstar Amitabh Bachchan has given up LPG subsidy and will from now on, buy cooking gas at market price. Bachchan is the latest to join the #GiveItUpMovement where users who can afford to pay market price, opt out of scheme to get LPG cylinders at subsidised rates.

Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said "such a noble gesture by Shri Bachchan would surely inspire many others to join #GiveItUp, a movement committed to bring smiles to millions of poor households by providing them access to clean fuel (LPG)." As on date, more than 30 lakh people have surrendered their LPG subsidy in response to the appeal made by Modi on March 27, an official statement said here.

Modi also promised that the money saved from this effort will be utilised to provide LPG connection to poor households. Assuming that each of these consume an average of 8 cylinders per annum and at the average subsidy rate of Rs 200 per bottle, the saving amounts to about Rs 480 crore. Presently, a household is entitled to receive subsidy to buy up to 12 cylinders of 14.2-kg each every year. Cash advance is transfered into the beneficiary account on first enrollment and another installment is given the moment it is used to buy a LPG refill. LPG subsidy payout from Union Budget in 2014-15 was Rs 40,591 crore as against a dole of Rs 52,231 crore in 2013-14.

Source:http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/amitabh-bachchan-gives-up-lpg-subsidy/1/482248.html

When Kangana Ranaut Pushed Her Luck With Amitabh Bachchan

She's one of Bollywood's biggest stars and has two National Awards to her credit, but when she's face-to-face with the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, Kangana Ranaut is just like any other fangirl.

Or so it seems, according to this new ad that showcases one of Bollywood's coolest casting coups yet.

The commercial shows Big B and Kangana hanging out in-between shots, when tinseltown's resident Queen makes him a special request. Here's how their conversation goes:

"Sir woh dialogue sunayi na, Shahenshah ka?" she asks.

"Kaunsa?" asks Big B, while fixing his imitation-beard.

"Rishte mein toh hum tumhare baap lagte hain," replies Kangana hopefully.

"Rishte mein toh hum tumhare baap lagte hain... naam hai Shahenshah," comes Big B's distracted reply.

Feeling cheated, Kangana urges him to say it the way he did in the movie, baritone and all. Once more with attitude please. This time, the Shahenshah delivers.

Encouraged by Big B's willingness, she then makes a few more requests - please sir, could you say this line from Amar Prem, that one from Deewar, and this other one from Mr India? So what if they weren't originally spoken by Big B at all, huh? 

So what does he do in this situation? We'll let you watch the video below to see what happens when Kangana pushes her luck.

Source:http://www.ndtv.com/offbeat/when-kangana-ranaut-pushed-her-luck-with-amitabh-bachchan-1220410

Amitabh Bachchan thanks both his fans and abusers after reaching 17 million Twitter followers

Bachchan continued the celebration by sharing the pictures of fans, who gather outside his house every Sunday.

File photo of Amitabh Bachchan. PTI

FYI, 'ef' refers to extended family, as that's what he calls his fans.

Bachchan has been the most popular face of Indian cinema since past four decades.

The actor is one of the most active celebrity on social media and tries to keep in touch with his followers on regular basis.

Superstar Shah Rukh lags behind Bachchan with 15.2 million followers, while Salman and Aamir settle with 13.9 14.6 million fan following respectively.

Source:http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-thanks-his-fans-and-abusers-after-reaching-17-million-twitter-followers-2440870.html

Amitabh Bachchan, Kangana Ranaut feature in new Boroplus ad film

This is a casting coup of many firsts but all happening at one time – a celluloid story that will unfurl a box full of surprises: 

• A never-seen-before pairing of the legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan and the super talented Kangana Ranaut sharing screen space together for the very first time

• Amitabh Bachchan to appear for the first time in a Rajkumar Hirani Productions 

• Kangana Ranaut also is cast for the first time by Rajkumar Hirani Productions 

Stringing these pearls together, this unique casting coup has been orchestrated by none other than BoroPlus Antiseptic Cream, a power brand from the house of Emami Limited, a major FMCG player in India, for its brand new TVC.  Produced by RajkumarHirani Productions and directed by Karan Narwekar, the TVC is slated to hit the air in the month of October, this year. 

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Priti Sureka, Director, Emami Limited said, “The new BoroPlus Antiseptic Cream TVC aims to capture one of the biggest talent pools that Bollywood can offer at this point of time and create a classic. With the star power of the versatile & legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan and the accomplished actor of the ‘Queen’ fame Kangana Ranaut put together under the banner of the talented Raj Kumar Hirani Productions, we are confident that we have a winner with us.  A very strong performance by both the actors in the new TVC, has the potential of reinforcing our consumers’ confidence to a greater height for the brand.  We are confident that the storyline of the ad film will resonate with every movie lovers irrespective of their age.” 

The Rs. 400+ crore Boroplus portfolio currently comprises brands-for-all-seasons: BoroPlus Antiseptic Cream, BoroPlus Total results Moisturizing Lotion and BoroPlus Prickly Heat Powder.   BoroPlus is India’s No.1 antiseptic cream and is also the highest selling antiseptic 

cream in Ukraine, Russia and Nepal.   Over the years, the brand BoroPlus has been endorsed by biggest celebrity names like Amitabh Bachchan, KanganaRanaut, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonakshi Sinha and Bipasha Basu. 

- See more at: http://www.orissadiary.com/ShowBussinessNews.asp?id=61584#sthash.VLaIqXfG.dpuf

This is a casting coup of many firsts but all happening at one time – a celluloid story that will unfurl a box full of surprises: • A never-seen-before pairing of the legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan and the super talented Kangana Ranaut sharing screen space together for the very first time • Amitabh Bachchan to appear for the first time in a Rajkumar Hirani Productions • Kangana Ranaut also is cast for the first time by Rajkumar Hirani Productions Stringing these pearls together, this unique casting coup has been orchestrated by none other than BoroPlus Antiseptic Cream, a power brand from the house of Emami Limited, a major FMCG player in India, for its brand new TVC. Produced by RajkumarHirani Productions and directed by Karan Narwekar, the TVC is slated to hit the air in the month of October, this year. Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Priti Sureka, Director, Emami Limited said, “The new BoroPlus Antiseptic Cream TVC aims to capture one of the biggest talent pools that Bollywood can offer at this point of time and create a classic. With the star power of the versatile & legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan and the accomplished actor of the ‘Queen’ fame Kangana Ranaut put together under the banner of the talented Raj Kumar Hirani Productions, we are confident that we have a winner with us. A very strong performance by both the actors in the new TVC, has the potential of reinforcing our consumers’ confidence to a greater height for the brand. We are confident that the storyline of the ad film will resonate with every movie lovers irrespective of their age.” The Rs. 400+ crore Boroplus portfolio currently comprises brands-for-all-seasons: BoroPlus Antiseptic Cream, BoroPlus Total results Moisturizing Lotion and BoroPlus Prickly Heat Powder. BoroPlus is India’s No.1 antiseptic cream and is also the highest selling antiseptic cream in Ukraine, Russia and Nepal. Over the years, the brand BoroPlus has been endorsed by biggest celebrity names like Amitabh Bachchan, KanganaRanaut, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonakshi Sinha and Bipasha Basu.

Source: http://www.orissadiary.com/ShowBussinessNews.asp?id=61584#sthash.VLaIqXfG.dpuf

Shahrukh, Amitabh Bachchan, Mukesh Ambani Will Not Undergo Security Checks At US Airports Anymore

For real. Shahrukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adnani and a few selected VVIPs in India will now get special treatment at US airports, and will no longer be frisked or go through long security checks.

As part of the Global Entry Program, the Indian government has prepared a list of 2000 Indians who will be exempted from frisking at US airports and will be allowed quick check-ins. The list includes the who’s who of Bollywood, politics, and business. Besides Shahrukh, Ambani, and Bachchan, former Indian president Pratibha Patil and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh are also on the list.

What Is This Global Entry Program?

The Global Entry Program is a program by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows a set of “pre-approved low-risk travelers” to get quick clearance by Customs at US airports. Entry into the program is not easy, and the applicants are required to undergo a thorough background-check and personal interviews.

How It’ll Work

The 2000 lucky Indians will no longer have to stand in long queues waiting for clearance by customs. Instead, there will be special counters for members of the Global Entry Program, and each member will be issued a special card to produce at these counters. So instead of the long-drawn check-in process, the VVIPs will:

a)      Produce their machine-readable passport at the counters,

b)      Place their fingers on the fingerprint scanner,

c)       Collect the transaction receipt issued by the kiosk, and head to baggage claim. 

My Name Is Khan And I Am Not A Terrorist

Beefed up security and a reflexive distrust of Indians, especially Muslims and, bearded and turbaned men, was a long-lasting consequence of the 9/11 tragedy. You’d recall how former president Late APJ Abdul Kalam and actor Shahrukh Khan faced embarrassing frisking at US airports a few years ago. It so happened that Shahrukh’s name coincided with a name on the airport security’s watch list. This happened around the time his film ‘My Name Is Khan’, that discussed racial discrimination against Indians in the aftermath of the 9/11 tragedy, was released, and the refrain “My name is Khan, and I am not a terrorist’ rang painfully true at this time.

Source:http://www.mensxp.com/special-features/today/27693-shahrukh-amitabh-bachchan-mukesh-ambani-will-not-undergo-security-checks-at-us-airports-anymore.html