Glitter girl: Bipasha’s unusual photo shoot

Rarely do you hear Bipasha Basu’s name without the words hot or sexy in the same sentence. But recently, Bips appeared before the camera in a range of completely new looks. The objective was to not negate her sensual appeal (God no!), but merely to relate to the common woman through jewellery. “We’re working on different aspects of being a woman,” Bips explains, “So we have something for teenagers, something for corporate women. The jewellery is perfect for everything ranging from a party look to a traditional look.”

Bips tells us about the classy, minimalist jewellery she has on: “This is a very elegant, basic chain with beautiful earrings.” So, what jewellery does Bips consider most essential? “I don’t get out of the house without my diamond rings,” she says. “Also, I like hoops with little diamonds and hand accessories.”

Tanushree Dutta on Rama, The Savior

Tanushree Dutta is back in the limelight, and for all the right reasons for a change. The bong babe is busy working on her next film, Rama, The Savior. It’s a children’s film and has Sahil Khan playing the title role. Also, there are rumours of wrestling champion Khali being part of the film.

The success of Taare Zameen Par assured a steady flow of films based on children. This one also seems to be a full-fledged fun treat. Speaking about her role, Tanushree seemed mighty excited. She said, “Samara is an action girl who’s a bit grey in the beginning and goes on to play a positive role gradually. She’s a gadget freak, smart and fast with her moves.” She added, “The film was physically taxing. There were many action stunts, crossing rivers and mountains. But I am glad I did it.”

Looking quite gathered on the sets, ask her if all’s well on the personal front considering the recent tiff she had with the media and she chirps, “I am absolutely fine. The incident hasn’t changed me a bit. I am all smiles and have my work to concentrate on.” Let’s hope this bout of calmness lasts longer this time.

Jimmy Shergill: Kissing rules goodbye

Jimmy Shergill has broken his own rule of conduct! The actor apparently has a strict no-kissing policy when it comes to his co-stars. This titbit came to light when he downright refused to kiss Nandana Sen for a scene in Strangers. So, how come he has happily locked lips with Nisha Rawal in their upcoming release, Hastey Hastey? “Look closely and see if it’s really a kiss,” he smiles mysteriously.

At the film’s music launch, Jimmy and his debutant co-stars Nisha and Monishka, were in top form promoting the album. “Anu Malik has given us great music,” says Jimmy. “The album includes all kinds of songs.” Nisha adds, “The music will motivate everyone who hears it, especially the youth. The film itself is youth-oriented, of the candy-floss kind.”

Why Rozza wants to work with Govinda

Following reports of Rozza Catalano bagging the lead role in a film opposite Jackie Shroff, came reports of her new yearning. After split from Saif Ali Khan, Rozza had declared that she was looking forward to carving a Bollywood career for herself. She got her first break with a dance number in director Samar Khan’s recently released Shaurya. Now, she wants to work with comedy king Govinda.

Of late, Govinda is garnering attention for all the wrong reasons. Just a few days ago, he slapped a stranger on the sets of a film. Then, his security guard slapped a shopkeeper and Govinda got the flak for it. Chichi’s popularity chart is growing by leaps and bounds though. Perhaps, that’s one reason why the Italian beauty has expressed her desire to work with him.

Ironically, before splitting with superstar Saif, Rozza did try her best to get into Bollywood. Except for some brand endorsements though, nothing concrete came her way. Soon after their split, the lady seems to be amidst a barrage of film offers. Now that things are working her way, let’s wait and see if she actually gets to play Chichi’s lover.

Amrita-Kareena: Sab Zero!

Kareena Kapoor’s best friend Amrita Arora is looking fitter than ever these days. After spending hours at the gym and going on a strict diet, the spunky actress has shed three kilos — and it wasn’t even for a role! According to Amrita, Kareena’s slim new figure inspired her to become a size zero as well. In fact, boyfriend Saif is not the only one Bebo has been encouraging to keep fit with yoga; she has enrolled Amrita for yoga classes, too! Amrita and Bebo even have the same dietician. Now, all that remains is for Amrita to hit the big time in Bollywood like Kareena.

Sherlyn: More controversial than Rakhi?

Move over Rakhi Sawant, there’s a new controversial queen in town! Sherlyn Chopra has been in the news for all sorts of reasons lately, but she’s currently focusing on her music video, featuring hunky model Shavar Ali. Still, people can’t stop comparing her with bindaas babe Rakhi Sawant! “It really psyches me when I am compared to ‘brands’ with which I have nothing in common,” says Sherlyn. “I know these comparisons will continue. Some day, they will compare me to the likes of Angelina Jolie! I’m just waiting for that day to come.”

Soha-Sharmila: Finally co-stars!

After capturing hearts with her dazzling smile years ago, Sharmila Tagore just might brighten up the silver screen once again. Assuming director Janu Barua’s vision becomes a reality, Sharmila will play onscreen mommy to real-life daughter Soha Ali Khan in Barua’s English flick, Homing Pigeons. In the past, several directors have offered films to the beautiful mother-daughter duo, but they would consistently refuse. However, something about the script of Homing Pigeons caught their fancy and they enthusiastically accepted. Wonder if Soha’s big bro Saif will also find his way into the nest with a surprise cameo!

What’s behind Gayatri Joshi’s glow?

Raell Padamsee celebrated International Wish Day with her latest interactive drama ‘Murder on the Menu’ at a suburban five star. Whodunnit? That was the question on all the guests’ minds through the wonderful evening which was full of laughter, mystery and intrigue. As Anju Taraporvala displayed her acting skills with director Karla Singh on stage, her husband Farhad cheered her on in the audience.

It was a special evening even for children of Make-A-Wish Foundation India. It being International Wish Day, some of their wishes were granted, and the real-life smiles on their faces made up for the reel-life intrigue on the actors’ faces.

Dalip Tahil made sure he caught the play, and was glad he did. Designer Azeem Khan came along with his wife, Pradeep Hirani with his daughter and Pooja Bedi was spotted enjoying the fun evening with beau Hanif Hilal. Kunika Lall and Kadambari were also there, while Namrata Baruah and Gayatri Joshi chatted like schoolgirls. But why was Gayatri beaming throughout the event? Watch the video and find out.