Actor Ali Asgar says he fails to understand the reason behind him being offered a woman's role in comedy shows even though he has maintained a distance from such characters for almost a year.

Ali played the role of a woman in the TV show "Comedy Circus" and is again seen essaying the role of an old woman in Colors' comedy show "Comedy Nights with Kapil".

"There is no dearth of male roles. I am doing this woman's role after a year. I am surprised why people keep offering me women's roles. Maybe it is because I am good at it," Ali told IANS.

Ali plays the role of comedian and producer of the show Kapil Sharma's grandmother in "Comedy Nights with Kapil".

And it was his friendship with Kapil that made him accept the offer.

"I agreed this time because I couldn't say no to Kapil (Kapil Sharma). I am also not keen on doing women's role every time," he said.

"This character is something which I have not done before. There is a very lively character. The dadi is very energetic. It is a Punjabi family so there are larger than life characters. The dadi has so many stories, she is romantic and mad," he added.

Ali is also currently seen in the show "Jeannie Aur Juju" and is in no hurry to bag more projects.

"Right now, my hands are full with these two shows. There is no time for anything else," he said.

Stand-up comedian Kapil Sharma, who has tickled the funny bone of audiences with his classic acts, admits to getting scared before going up on the stage but says it is this fear that brings out the best in him.

The 32-year-old has been part of comedy shows like "The Great Indian Laughter Challenge", "Jubilee Comedy Circus" and "Comedy Circus Ke Taansen" in the past.

"I am always scared before going on stage, this is the fear which makes me do well," Kapil told IANS.

Kapil, who started his journey from a regional stand up comedy show and has made his way up the ladder, has now produced a show "Comedy Nights with Kapil", which went on air June 22 on Colors television show.

He is also currently seen co-hosting dance reality show "Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa" with anchor Manish Paul.

Asked if managing "Jhalak..." with his new production will be a problem, Kapil said: "I am not having any problem balancing both the shows. The channel is supporting me a lot and both the shows belong to the same channel."

Meanwhile, Kapil will also start working on a Punjabi movie soon.

"My focus is on this show ('Comedy Nights With Kapil') till September. Then I have a Punjabi film. I don't plan much," he said.

Film: Bhaag Milkha Bhaag; Music Composers: Ehsaan Noorani, Loy Mendonsa, Shankar Mahadevan; Singers: Daler Mehndi, Shankar, Ehsaan, Loy, Suhas Sawant, Raman Mahadevan, Mani Mahadevan, Siddharth Mahadevan, Javed Bashir, Divya Kumar, Arif Lohar, Loy Mendonsa, Sukhwinder Singh, Arshad Khan, Israj Khan, Tapas Roy, Vajid Ali, Yusuf Mohammed, Shreya Ghoshal

Ratings: **1/2

The music of Rakesh Omprakash Mehra's "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" has eight tracks, including a Gurbani rendition. While a lot of the songs are inclined towards fun and passion, the romantic tracks also manage to steal a bit of limelight in the album.

The album starts with a "Gurbani", soulfully rendered by Daler Mehndi to create a mood of peace.

"Zinda", sung by multiple singers like Suhas Sawant, Raman Mahadevan, Mani Mahadevan and Siddharth Mahadevan, has an inspiring passion and intensity. The guitar riffs at the song's beginning are impressive, while the background music along with tough lyrics make the song very encouraging. From hard rock music in the background, the song gradually takes a turn towards a soft, smooth melody.

Javed Bashir has sung the next track "Mera Yaar" beautifully. Unlike usual romantic numbers, this one stands apart with Sufi music blended into the melody seamlessly. The lyrics prove to be a rare phenomenon with poetry being given a lot of space and the track is one of the high points of the album.

"Maston ka jhund" has already become the favourite of many youngsters. With singer Divya Kumar crooning in the track, it can be easily tagged as a boys' number. The beats are rhythmic and foot tapping.

"Bhaag milkha bhaag", the title track of the movie, is a little disappointing. Even though the lyrics are very powerful, the regular pace of the song makes it a little uninteresting for the listener. While singer Arif Lohar's voice is a treat for everyone, the listener keeps on waiting for a high adrenaline rushing twist, which never comes.

The rock version of title track makes up for the missing element in the previous number. Sung by Siddharth Mahadevan, it is really hard-hitting and inspirational. Not just the singer's voice but the music also compliments the feel of the track. A very good hear.

If there is one song in the album, which can be termed as simply "amazing", it is "Slow motion angreza". The song begins with singer Loy Mendosa singing in English. It has the style of country singing and is very catchy. The best part comes when Sukhwinder Singh comes behind the mike. His entry is commendable and is sure to have the listeners hooked on to it.

The last track is "O Rangrez", which again has an ensemble of singers like Arshad Khan, Israj Khan, Tapas Roy, Vajid Ali, Yusuf Mohammed, Javed Bashir and Shreya Ghoshal contributing to the song. A romantic number, it also has some spiritual essence attached to its music. This is the only slow paced song in the album and has very beautiful lyrics. A listener might not be able to get attached to the rhythm initially, but it gradually grows on you. The beauty of the track might not be appealing to all as it is a low profiled song.

Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy have tried to infuse life and story in every track. While the tracks, which are peppy, score high, certain tracks may fail to meet expectations of the listeners. But, nonetheless, the music of "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" does not disappoint.

Southern actress Anushka Shetty, who is busy shooting for upcoming Telugu period-drama "Rudhramadevi", is expected to shed as much as 15 kg for her role in the film.

"She (Anushka) has been advised to shed at least 10 to 15 kg for the film. In the next two months, she will undergo a strict weight regime to perfect the look for the film," a source from the film's unit told IANS.

Anushka, however, will not lose too much of weight.

"She has another period flick lined up. It is important that the weight loss is under control. To ensure that she stays in shape, she will spend more time on yoga than on physical workout," the source added.

"Rudhramadevi" is being directed and produced by Gunasekhar, and Anushka will essay the role of Rani Rudhramadevi of Kakatiya dynasty.

The film features an ensemble cast of Rana Daggubati, Aditi Chengappa, Vikramjeet Virk, Nathalia Kaur, Hamsa Nandhini, Prakash Raj, Baba Sehegal, Krishnam Raju, Ahuti Prasad, Jayaprakash Reddy and Adithya Menon.

Illayaraja will compose the music for the film, which will have cinematography by Ajay Vincent.

Meanwhile, Anushka will soon start working on Telugu period-drama "Baahubali" with filmmaker S.S Rajamouli.

Grapevine was abuzz with news that Salman Khan-starrer "Mental" will be made in 3D. But if director Sohail Khan is to be believed, the reports appear premature and misguided.

"We are shooting the film in 2D. Some technicians in our crew have suggested that we do some 3D portions. First, let me complete my film in the normal format. Then I'll take a call," said Sohail.

A source close to the project said that at the moment, the unit's top priority is to complete the film for release Jan 24.

"Salman wanted to do a film in 3D for the longest time. In fact, when Sohail was making 'Sher Khan' instead of 'Mental', the plan was to make a big spectacular epic in 3D. But 'Sher Khan' didn't happen.

"Salman is now interested in converting parts of 'Mental' to 3D. But this is on condition that the process doesn't dent the new release date," the source added.

Three popular Tamil composers - Shankar Ganesh, Deva and A.R Reihana - have come together to sing a number in upcoming Tamil-Telugu bilingual "Win", which has music by U.K Murali.

"For the first time, three composers have crooned a song for another composer. The trio has crooned the number in both the languages," the film's director Vinod Kumar said in a statement.

The film, currently in post-production stage, features Jai Akash, Angel Jitendra, Subas, Kavya, Nikita, Kousalya, Dinesh Nair, Ganja Karuppu, Manobala and Nasser.

"Win" will be released under the banner of Rahmath Productions in Telugu and Jai Balaji Movie Makers in Tamil.

Actress Divya Dutta, who has proved herself as an actor with movies like "Veer-Zaara" and "Delhi-6", says she now wants to try her hands at film direction.

"I would love to direct films and it's certainly on the cards," Divya told IANS.

However, there's still some time before she dons the director's hat.

"I am lucky that I have worked with some wonderful directors so far -- Madhur Bhandarkar and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, among others. I am planning to direct films in the future, but nothing right now," she added.

Divya believes assisting a director before taking up the task single-handedly is not necessary.

"You don't need to assist anybody to become director," said Divya, who is busy writing her first book in the meantime.

"Writing is something I am doing right now. I was always passionate about writing. I am writing a novel right now. Writing comes naturally to me like acting,"

Acclaimed actor Irrfan, who won a National Award for his performance in "Paan Singh Tomar", says he hopes many more such "unique" projects come his way.

"There have been few turning points (in my life) and 'Paan Singh Tomar' was one of them. It was made in a unique way, and the way it was made was commercially successful. I wish I had many more 'Paan Singh Tomars' in my life," Irrfan told IANS.

Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, the film saw Irrfan playing Paan Singh Tomar, a former national steeplechase champion-turned-bandit.

The versatile actor says it is a great time to be in the industry as a director, "but I don't plan to direct films".

In a new coffee table book “Reflections”, double Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman looks back at memorable moments spent with those who have worked with him through the years. The book also shares singers' tributes to the Mozart of Madras.

“The book is a tribute by A.R. Rahman to singers who have influenced his music. It is also a heartwarming tribute by the singers to the composer, the special man who shared with them his unique and compassionate style of working and who helped them to tap into and discover musical potential which sometimes they did not even know they possessed,” professional photographer T. Selvakumar, the author of the book, said in a statement.

Published by Audio Media Inc., “Reflections” will be on sale from July. The proceeds from the book will go to support the charitable work of A.R. Foundation.

Touched by the book, Rahman said: “Twenty years after my first film, I am pausing to reflect on the people who have contributed so richly to my music. I am happy that these wonderful individuals have been so beautifully photographed by Selva."

“Through arduous long nights and day-long rehearsals and recordings, my half-sleepy and tired, unassuming and self-effacing musicians and colleagues stood tall by me, sharing and celebrating my success,” he added.

Rahman has scored for music for a string of Bollywood, southern and international films. He made a mark globally with the soundtrack of Danny Boyle's "Slumdog Millionaire", which won him two Academy Awards.

Following the worldwide critical and popular acclaim of "Stanley Ka Dabba", Fox Star Studios has sealed a deal for yet another movie with filmmaker Amole Gupte for his next untitled directorial venture.

The film is expected to bring alive yet another heartwarming story with a universal appeal. Gupte is "thankful" to the studio for "keeping the faith and travelling with me".

"In this land of a billion dreams, it will always be a challenge to record the spirit and energy of dreamers that move mountains. This summer, I have set off on this exciting trail," Gupte said in a statement.

His "Stanley Ka Dabba", a sensitive tale surrounding school-going children, released in 2011. It is now debuting in newer international markets. The film, which has already travelled to 15 international markets, including the US and Europe, will be releasing in Japan June 29.

For Fox Star Studios, Gupte's new venture will be another example of its commitment towards supporting and creating clutter-breaking cinema.

"Amole brings a unique vision to filmmaking and his philosophy of 'ethical cinema with a heart' is inspiring and path-breaking," said Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios.

"We are committed to nurturing and developing high concept films -be it 'Stanley Ka Dabba' or 'Jolly LLB' - and Amole's next film is definitely the one that will tug at our hearts," Singh added.

Actress Shruti Haasan says her role in forthcoming movie "D-Day" can be described as sensuous, but not bold.

The 27-year-old shares screen space with actor Arjun Rampal in the movie, and she says he made her feel comfortable during intimate scenes.

"I won't say (my role is) bold, but it's a very sensual role and Arjun Rampal made me feel very comfortable. Arjun is a wonderful co-star to work with," Shruti said.

Shruti, who made her Bollywood debut with 2009 movie "Luck", says she took up "D-Day" as she felt it was a challenging project.

"When I was approached for this film, I couln't say no to it. It's the most challenging role so far. I am glad I am part of this film," she said.

Directed by Nikhil Advani, "D-Day" also stars Rishi Kapoor, Huma Qureshi and Irrfan in prominent roles. It is slated to release July 19.

Shruti will also be seen in "Ramaiya Vastavaiya", which will release on the same date.

Filmmaker Anand Gandhi, whose short movie "Right Here, Right Now" was appreciated at various film festivals, has a word of advice for budding filmmakers. He says it is important to look beyond the usual brand of cinema and watch works from other countries.

"I would recommend for all of you to start exploring, start going beyond what you have seen and what you have been seeing. So start watching cinema from around the world, start watching films from Iran, Romania, Scandinavia, Russia... from different parts of the world," the 32-year-old said at an event held here Sunday to promote short films.

Gandhi believes "these parts of the world are producing extremely amazing and beautiful cinema".

"They have completely different idioms and paradigms which are not your mainstream Indian or American cinema which you currently consume," said the filmmaker, whose 2003 movie "Right Here, Right Now" was named the best short film at the Syracuse International Film Festival (2004) and Shnit International Short Film Festival.

His latest film "Ship of Theseus" won the 2012 BFI Jury Special Mention at the BFI London Film Festival, 2012 Enlighten Award at the Naya Cinema Festival, 2013 Best Screenplay nomination at the Asian Film Awards and the 2013 Transylvania Trophy at the Transylvania International Film Festival.

The movie, presented by Kiran Rao in association with UTV Motion Pictures, will release in India July 19.

Tamil actor Dhanush's Bollywood debut "Raanjhanaa", which also features Sonam Kapoor, has minted Rs.20.08 crore on its opening weekend in the country.

The film, reportedly made at a budget of Rs.35 crore, released worldwide Friday.

"The total weekend collection of 'Raanjhanaa' in India is Rs.20.08 crore," said a statement from Eros International, the producers of the film.

The love story of a Hindu boy and a Muslim girl, "Raanjhanaa" also features Swara Bhaskar, Abhay Deol and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayub in important role.

The film is directed by Anand L. Rai, and has music by A.R Rahman.

The Tamil dubbed version of the film titled "Ambikapathy" is scheduled to release in Tamil Nadu June 28 in more than 200 screens.

The fourth edition of Jagran Film Festival, to be held July 5-9, will celebrate 100 glorious years of Indian cinema. As many as 20 classics, including "Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro" and "Madhumati", will be screened for movie buffs.

The fest, scheduled at the Siri Fort Auditorium here, will also screen films like Satyajit Ray's Apu Trilogy, Ramesh Sippy's "Sholay", Bimal Roy's "Do Biga Zameen", Guru Dutt's "Pyaasa", Mani Ratnam's "Nayagan", Hrishikesh Mukherjee's "Anand", Vijay Anand's "Guide" and K. Asif's "Mughal-e-Azam".

The movies will be showcased under categories like World Panorama, Indian Showcase, Indian Premiers, Jagran Shorts and Cinema of the Sellers.

One can also attend the panel discussions and master classes to get a chance to speak with film critics and experts. You can learn about the process of filmmaking too.

The fest is organised by the Directorate of Film Festival of India, Film Federation Of India, Film and Television Institute of India, Prasad Institute, Korean Cultural Centre and Berlinale Shorts.

The fiesta will cover seven states and 16 cities. Starting from Delhi, it will go on to places like Kanpur, Lucknow, Allahabad, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Agra, Meerut, Dehradun, Patna, Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Indore, Bhopal and Mumbai.

Actress Sonam Kapoor, whose latest film "Raanjhanaa" has set the cash registers ringing, now wants something as challenging as Nawazuddin Siddiqui's role in "Bombay Talkies".

"I recently watched 'Bombay Talkies' and Dibakar Banerjee's film in that is my favourite among the four (stories). The way the story was conveyed and it was performed so beautifully, I thought it must be so challenging for an actor to do something like that," the 28-year-old said here Sunday at an event held to promote short films.

"I love a challenge, so it would be great if I could do something like that," she added.

"Bombay Talkies" is an amalgamation of four short films by Karan Johar, Zoya Akhtar, Anurag Kashyap and Banerjee. Nawazuddin, who hails from Uttar Pradesh, had to learn a bit of Marathi for his part for the film. He attended workshops to perfect his accent.

Filmamker Amit Saxena, who is launching controversy queen Poonam Pandey in "Nasha", says he was apprehensive about casting her in the film.

"I had apprehensions because the kind of character the film has demanded a more experienced girl. But when I met Poonam during rehearsals, I was stunned. I was even more sure that nobody other than Poonam can pull off this role," Saxena told IANS.

"Nasha" has been called an erotic thriller, but Saxena clarifies it is more about sensuality.

"It's not an erotic film. I actually don't even know how to make an erotic film. It's an exploration of sensuality," he said.

"Nasha", releasing July 26, also features debutant Shivam opposite Poonam. The film is produced by Surender Suneja and Aditya Bhatia under the banner of Eagle Home Entertainment.

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan is keen to watch director Mrighdeep Singh Lamba's movie "Fukrey", which is running well on word-of-mouth.

Big B is specially looking forward to watch Richa Chadha's performance in the movie, which also features Pulkit Samrat, Manjot Singh, Ali Fazal, Varun Sharma, Priya Anand and Vishakha Singh.

"I wish to see 'Fukrey' which is garnering praise from all quarters. The performances are good, and one such comes from Richa Chaddha, who Anurag brought to meet me on the sets (of a TV show).

"She was so good in 'Gangs Of Wasseypur' and I believe has done very good work in ‘Fukrey’ too," Big B posted on his blog.

Big B will soon be seen in Prakash Jha's "Satyagraha", and he is busy shooting for his debut TV fiction show with Kashyap.

The trailer of director Shashant Shah's forthcoming revenge comedy "Bajatey Raho" has garnered a positive feedback.

The trailer was launched June 17, and has been tagged with "Raanjhanaa".

Actor Anil Kapoor is said to have told Shah that the movie "will be a super hit for sure", while actress Bipasha Basu tweeted: "This looks great, it is simply hilarious."

Even singer-actress Sophie Choudry congratulated Tusshar Kapoor by posting: "It's fabulous Tusshar! Can't wait to see the film!! Super cast!"

"Bajatey Raho", releasing July 26, features Ranvir Shorey, Vinay Pathak and Dolly Ahluwalia, apart from Tusshar.

One would have thought Jackky Bhagnani would be on a break after all the gruelling sessions he had to undergo for "Rangrezz". But the actor is said to be busy flying from one country to another, all for work!

If sources are to be believed, the actor flew to London a few weeks back to do recce for a film, and now he has left for Cape Town with a small team to research for an upcoming film.

The details of the project have been kept tightly under wraps, but it looks like he wants to give it his best shot.

Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh was so impressed with Vikramaditya Motwane's "Udaan" that he was instantly drawn towards accepting the director's new project "Lootera". He says Motwane is a special director who will go a long way in the film industry.

"My only creative interaction (for 'Lootera') was with Vikramaditya. He was the first thing which drew me into the film. My whole focus has been Vikramadtiya, who I feel is a special director. I know that in the years to come, he will be recognised as one of the best directors," Ranveer said here.

Ranveer has been receiving a positive response for his look in "Lootera", and he likes the fact that the trailer of the movie "stands out of the rest".

"I am very happy with the response," he said.

Talking about his character in the film, the actor said: "There is a charming quality to the guy, he looks like a good guy. Vikramaditya was very clear about what he wanted. I went with it. I had no input of my own."

"Lootera", a period romance, features Sonakshi Sinha opposite Ranveer. It releases July 5.