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Kareena Kapoor unplugged

Gattu Tales from Baa Bahu aur Baby

Aamir Khan Exclusive Interview

Telephonic interview with Madhuri Dixit

High Life Dubai - Shahrukh khan interview

Madhuri Dixit

Bollywood Actress

Birthname: Madhuri Shankar Dixit

DOB: 15th May, 1967

Status: Married toSriram Nene.

Has Dated: Sanjay Dutt

Debut movie: Abodh in 1986

No. of marriages: One

Most remembered for: Nisha Choudhary in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun

Litigations: None

Jail term served: None

Famous pairing: Anil Kapoor

Biography: Madhuri Dixit was born in a Maharashtrian family in Mumbai, on May 15th 1967. Alongwith being a certified micro- biologist, Madhuri is also trained in Kathak. The actress made her debut in Abodh which failed miserably.Thereafter she made appearances in various supporting roles but to no avail till Tezaab came her way. Her song ek do teen from Tezaab in 1988 went on to become a rage of its time and the actress is still associated with it.

Her career’s turning point was the role of Nisha in Sooraj Barjatya’s Hum Aapke Hain Kaun in 1994 after which Madhuri Dixit became a household name. She moved on to give great performances like in Mrityudand which got her a lot of critical acclaim and various awards at international film festivals.

She got married to a Colorado based surgeon, Shriram Nene, in 1999 and has 2 children with him, Arin and Ryan. The actress has reduced her work after marriage and was seen after a gap of four years in Sanjay leela Bhansali's Devdas in 2002. She worked in another movie after a span of 5 years - Aaja Nachle - but the film failed to response at the box office.

Favourites

Designer: Manish Malhotra

Holiday Destination: Denver, Mauritius

Endorsements: Emami, Lux

Shefali Shah

Birth Name: Shefali Shetty

DOB: May, 1969

Status: Married to Vipul Shah
Ex-wife of Harsh Chhaya

Debut film: Rangeela in 1995

Famous pairing: with Manoj Bajpai in Satya

Marriages: Two - Shefali's first husband is Harsh Chhaya. Vipul Shah is her second husband.

Most remembered for: Her brilliant performance in Monsoon Wedding

Litigations involved: None

Jail Term Served: None

Biography: Shefali Shah, also known as Shefali Chhaya, is a critically acclaimed versatile actress. She has not done too many movies, but she has made an indelible impact with the roles she has done. She was also a part of tv serials like banegi Apni Baat, Kabhie Kabhie, Raahein, Hasratein and Raahein. Though all her performances are brilliant and she mainly does supporting roles, her best loved performances are those of kasturba Gandhi in Gandhi My Father, physically abused Riya in Monsoon wedding and Pyaari Mhatre in Satya.

On the personal front, Shefali was married to TV actor harsh Chhaya but after they divorced, she got married to director Vipul Amrutlal Shah. She has two kids with him and her father is a banker and mother is a homoeopath.

Favourites:
Clothes: Jeans and white t-shirt
Actresses: Rani, Tabu and Konkona

Causes Associated with: None

Endorsements: None

Katrina Kaif

Bollywood Actress

Birth Name: Katrina Kaif

DOB: July 16, 1984

Status: Dating- Salman Khan

Debut Movie: Boom (2003)

Marriages None

Most Remembered For Jasmeet Singh- Namaste London

Litigations None

Jail Term None

Famous Pairing Akshay Kumar

Biography: Born to a mother of British origin and a father of Kashmiri Indian origin, one of 8 siblings, Katrina Kaif was born in Hong Kong. She lived most of her life in Hawaii after which she moved to London during her early teens. She started off her modeling career at 14, with a jewellery campaign and soon became the face of Lakme. And not too long after that Kaizad Gustad offered her Boom in 2003.

Katrina Kaif has transformed herself from a non hindi speaking model to one of the busiest actoresses today. She's certainly worked hard, from dubbing for Namaste London herself, to learning Kathak and practicing the dance everyday for 7 hours nonstop - the actress has been working very hard at her Bollywood career! In her relatively short career in the film industry, Katrina is already working with some of the biggest banners and filmmakers in the industry.
Although controversy has occasionally dogged her, with Salman Khan's trial cases and her having worn a skirt at a place of worship which created a lot of furore.

Favourite Designers: Vikram Phadnis, Gucci, Valentino, Versace

Causes associated with: None

Endorsements: Veet, Dyna.

Kareena Kapoor

Bollywood Actress

Birth name: Kareena Randhir Kapoor

DOB: 21 September, 1980

Staus: Dating Saif Ali Khan

Ex- Boyfriend: Shahid Kapoor

Debut movie: Refugee

No of Marriages: None

Most Remembered For: Kissing case with Shahid Kapoor

Litigations involved: None

Jail term served: None

Biography: Kareena comes from the country’s first acting family and is the daughter of actor Randhir Kappor. Her elder sister Karisma Kapoor is also a well-known actress. Her mom separated from her dad because her dad would not allow them to become actresses.
She did her schooling in Bombay and at Dehra Dun’s prestigious Welham Girls’ School. She was also at Harvard for a very brief period.

Kareena made her debut with ‘Refugee’ in 2000. It was also the film that launched Abhishek Bachchan’s career. Kareena was actually slated to star in the biggest hit of that year Kaho Naa Pyar Hai, but for some reason dropped out. She says she is glad to have done so. Today after more than 30 films to her kitty, Kareena is one of the most influential actresses in Bollywood.

She makes headlines regarding who she is with……

Favourites
Food: Chinese cuisine

Destination: She loves holidaying in London and never fails to have the thin crust pizza at "HARRODS" or visit "CHINA TOWN" in Piccadilly.

Actor: Shahrukh Khan. She thought of him as God!

Films: Awaara, Sangam, Bobby, Kal Aaj Aur Kal.

Colours: Black and Red

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Bollywood Actress

Profile

Birth name: Aishwarya Krishnaraj Rai

DOB: 1 November, 1973

Status: Married to Abhishek Bachchan

Former boyfriends: Salman Khan, Vivek Oberoi

Debut movie: Iruvaar

No. of Marriages: One

Most remembered for: Miss World, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanaam, Devdas

Litigations involved: None (In 2006, an obscenity case was filed against Aishwarya and Hrithik for Dhoom 2.)

Jail terms served: None

Famous pairing: Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan

Clothes: Structure jackets, form-fitting gown for formal wear and chikan salwar kameez for casual or jeans and T-shirt for casual wear

Movie: Casablanca

Perfumes: Happy by Clinique

Star endorses: L ‘Oreal, Longines, Lux, Coke

Biography: A former Miss World, Aishwarya Rai (Ash) is one of Bollywood's most sought after ladies. Her film career began with Mani Rathnam's 'Iruvar' (1997) for which she received critical acclaim and her performance in Aur Paar Ho Gaya' (1997) fetched her the Best Female Debutante Award. She delivered a series of stunning performances in her initial years, like in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanaam and Devdas. In 2003 she became the first Indian actor to be a member of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival. She is also the latest member of the elite L'Oreal Dream Team, joining beauties Catherine Deneuve & Andie MacDowell as their international ambassador. In 2004, Aishwarya starred in her first English language film for Gurinder Chadha in "Bride & Prejudice". She also became the first Indian female to be immortalized in wax at the world famous Madame Tussaud's wax museum in London. Presently she is the daughter-in-law of Amitabh Bachchan.

Amitabh Bachchan

Bollywood Actor

Birth Name: Amitabh Harivansh Srivastav

DOB: 11 Oct 1942

Status: Married to Jaya Bachchan

Debut Movie: Saat Hindustani

No of Marriages: One

Most Remembered For: Sholay, Deewar, Don

Famous Pairing: Rekha

Litigations Involved: He was named in the Bofors’ scandal but was later cleared

Biography: The son of a well known Hindi poet, Amitabh Bachchan was a well educated young man before he stepped into filmdom. His mother had always wanted him to become an actor, though never did she imagine that one day her son would rose on to become the biggest name in Bollywood that is the Big B. During the Seventies, Amitabh Bachchan delivered blockbusters after blockbusters and by the end of that decade, had become a “one-man-industry.” The iconic star had a brush with death during shooting in 1982, quit films for a while to take up politics alongside his longtime friend Rajiv Gandhi. Three years later he came to filmdom but could never achieve the success he was associated with during the Seventies. Lately, he has been working hard for a revival, with some success too. But no doubt, the septuagenarian can never be the Angry Young Man again.

Causes Associated with: Prevention of Polio

Brands Endorsed: Cadbury, Chawanprash, Reid & Taylor

Shah Rukh Khan

Bollywood Actor

Date of Birth: 2 November 1965, New Delhi, India.

Nickname: King Khan, SRK, Badshah of Bollywood.

Height: 5'8" (1.73 m)

Married to: Gauri Khan,
Date of Birth: 8 October 1970, India.
Birth Name: Gauri Chibber

No of marriages: One ( Gauri Khan, son- Aryan & daughter- Suhaana)

Most Remembered For: Baazigar, Daar, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai

Litigations involved: None

Jail term served: None

Biography: Shah Rukh is born to Pathan ethnicity. Shah Rukh's father came to Gurgaon from Kissa Kahani Bazaar in Peshawar before the Partition of India, while his mother's family came from Rawalpindi, which is also in present-day Pakistan. Shah Rukh has a sister named Shehnaz, who is lovingly known as Lalarukh. He attended St Columba's School where he was excelld in sports, drama and academics. He won the Sword of Honour, an annual award bequeathed to the student who embodies the spirit of the school. He later attended the Hansraj College (1985-1988) to earn an Honors degree in Economics. After this, he studied for a Masters Degree in Mass Communications at Jamia Millia Islamia University.

After the death of his parents, Shah Rukh moved from Gurgaon to Mumbai in 1991. He then married Gauri Khan in a Hindu wedding ceremony. They have two children, son Aryan (born in 1997) and daughter Suhana (born in 2000).

Shah Rukh's life-size wax statue is kept in the famous Madame Tussauds wax museum, London. It was made public on April 2007. Shah Rukh has been chosen for the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Order of the Arts and Literature) award of the French government for his "exceptional career".

Career

Shah Rukh started his acting career in 1988 appearing in a television series called Fauji playing the role of Commando Abhimanyu Rai. He went on to appear in several other television serials most notably appearing in the 1989 serial Circus, which depicted the life of circus performers and was directed by Aziz Mirza. That same year he also had a minor role in the English language made-for-television film In Which Annie Gives it Those Ones, which was written by Arundhati Roy and based on life at Delhi University. He made his Bollywood film debut in Deewana (1992), which was a box office hit and launched his career in Bollywood. His debut performance won him a Filmfare Best Male Debut Award. His second release Maya Memsaab was known for its controversial issues as Khan appeared in what was an "explicit scene in Bollywood" sex scene for the film.

In 1993 he won acclaim for his performances as a murderer and an obsessive lover in the box office hits Baazigar and Darr. He won his first Filmfare Best Actor Award for his performance in Baazigar. He was also appreciated for his role as a young loser in Kundan Shah's Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, which earned him the Filmfare Best Actor Award (critics) that same year. In 1994 Khan once again played an obsessive lover/psycho role in Anjaam. Even though the movie was not a box office success, Khan's performance in a negative role earned him the Filmfare Best Villain Award.

In 1995 he starred in Aditya Chopra's directorial debut Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, which was a critical and commercial success and has entered its 12th year in Mumbai theaters, grossing over 12 billion rupees and making it as one of the biggest film blockbusters.

The year 1996 was a disappointing year for King Khan, as all his films released that year flopped. 1997 meant his diminutive comeback, as his first release, Yash Chopra's Dil to Pagal Hai went on to be the year's second highest grossing film. That same year he also had success with Subhash Ghai's Pardes, which was one of the biggest hits of the year and Aziz Mirza's moderately successful film Yes Boss.

Shah Rukh was welcomed with similar success in 1998 starring in Karan Johar's directional debut Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, which was the biggest hit of the year and won him his fourth Best Actor award at the Filmfare. He also won critical praise for his performance in Mani Ratnam's Dil Se, which did not do well at the box office in India, but earned good collections overseas.

The year 2000 saw good success, with Aditya Chopra's second directional film Mohabbatein doing well at the box office, and Mansoor Khan's hit Josh. He gained critical acclaim for his performance in the former, which won him his second award for Best Actor (critics) at the Filmfare. In that same year, he set up his own production house Dreamz Unlimited with Juhi Chawla. Both Shahrukh and Juhi starred in the first film from their production house Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani. He also played a supporting role in Kamal Hassan's Hey Ram, for which he received much acclaim although the film was a failure at the box office.

In 2001, he collaborated with Karan Johar for the second time in the family drama film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, which was one of the biggest hits of the year. He also received favorable reviews for his performance as Emperor Asoka in the historical epic Asoka. In 2002, SRK played the title role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's award-winning period romance Devdas and the romantic drama Chalte Chalte which was a semi-hit. He then made his third film with Karan Johar as the writer and Nikhil Advani as a director of the romantic drama Kal Ho Naa Ho. The movie was one of the year's biggest hits in India and in the overseas market as well. Shahrukh's performance in the film as a person with heart disease struck a chord with audiences everywhere

2004 proved to be a good year for Khan commercially as well as critically. He starred in Main Hoon Na, which was the directorial debut of choreographer Farah Khan. The movie did well at the box office, whilst Yash Chopra's Veer-Zaara was the biggest hit of that year. His performance in the latter was much appreciated and he won various awards at several award ceremonies. Khan also won critical praise for his performance in Ashutosh Gowariker's Swades, which won him the Filmfare Best Actor Award for the sixth time although the film was a box office failure. His only major film release in 2005 was the fantasy film Paheli, which was not as successful at the box office, but won him acclaim.

In 2006 he once again collaborated with Karan Johar for the melodrama film Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna, which did well in India and became the biggest hit in the overseas market. That same year he played the title role in Don, a remake of the 1978 hit film Don, which was also successful. His first release in 2007 was the sports film Chak De India, which released on August 10, 2007. Khan received good reviews for his performance as the coach of a girl's hockey team in the film. Despite a low start at the box office, the film has been declared blockbuster, simultaneously becoming one of the year's biggest hits. His upcoming film is Om Shanti Om, which is due to be released on November 9, 2007 and is already one of the most awaited films of the year.

As a Producer

Khan has also produced some of the films he has starred in, but has had mixed success as both the producer and the star of his films. He set up a production company called Dreamz Unlimited with Juhi Chawla and director Aziz Mirza in 1999. The first two of the films he produced and starred in: Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani (2000) and Asoka (2001) which unfortunately both box office failures. His third film, as a producer and star, Chalte Chalte (2003), was the first box office hit from his production house. In 2004 he set up another production company called Red Chillies Entertainment and produced and starred in Main Hoon Na, which was another hit at the box office. In 2005 he produced and starred in the fantasy film Paheli, which was a box office failure. It was India's selection for the Academy Awards (foreign films category) but did not win. That same year he also co-produced the supernatural horror film Kaal with Karan Johar and performed an item number for the film with Malaika Arora Khan. Kaal was moderately successful at the box office. The forthcoming film produced by his company Red Chillies Entertainment is Om Shanti Om, which he will also star in.

As Television Host

Khan was chosen as the host of the third series of the popular game show Kaun Banega Crorepati, the Indian version of Who wants to be a millionaire? In 2007 taking over from the original host Amitabh Bachchan who had hosted the show from 2000 to 2005. On Monday, January 22, 2007, "KBC" aired with Khan as the new host. The season ended on April 19 2007.

Favourites

Dish/ Recipes: Tandoori Chicken

Drink: Pepsi , Cola

Actor: Amitabh Bachchan , Dilip Kumar, Rishi Kapoor, AAmir Khan, Akshay Kumar

Actress: Mumtaz

Hobbies: Doing several things simultaneously, reading, playing computer Games

Causes associated with: Owns the Kolkata cricket team in the Indian Premier League

Star endorses: Emami, Pepsi, Hyundai, Nokia, Airtel, Videocon, Sun Feast, Tag Heur, Belmonte, Masterstroke

Salman Khan

Bollywood Actor

Birth Name: Abdul Rashid Salim Salman Khan

DOB: Dec 27 1965

Status: Currently dating Katrina Kaif,

Has dated: Aishwarya Rai, Somy Ali, Sangeeta Bijlani

Debut Movie: Biwi Ho To Aisi

Marriages: None

Most Remembered for: Getting rid of his top, Maine Pyar Kiya, Saajan, Hum Aap Ke Hain Kaun, Hum Dil De Chuki Sanaam, Tere Naam

Litigations involved: Two

Jail terms served: Six days in the Jodhpur jail

Biography: Bollywood’s most eligible bachelor, Salman is known for many reasons. Friends swear by his good heartedness, while others like the media have him as their whipping boy. Whatever it is, one just cannot ignore Salman Khan in Bollywood.

Born on December 27, 1965 to legendary scriptwriter Salim Khan, Salman started his acting carrier in 1988 with "Biwi Ho To Aisi". His next film Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) was to define his status in Bollywood— it was one of the highest grossing Bollywood movies ever. Over the next decade Salman delivered terrific versatile performances while his films did consistenly at the box office. Saajan (1991), Andaz Apna Apna (1994), Hum Aapke Hain Koun...! (1994), Karan Arjun (1995), Khamoshi: The Musical (1996), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Hum Dil De Chuki Sanaam (1999) were notable films during this period.

However, Salman has also been troubled by personal problems. His relationships with his girlfriends have made news headlines, while on the other he has been on the receiving end of the strong arm of the law.

In 1998 he was arrested in Jodhpur for killing protected wild animals and spent about a week behind the bars. In September 2002, he crashed his Land Cruiser near the American Express bakery in Bandra, killing one man and injuring others. He came back strongly at the box office with “Tere Naam” in 2003 and has since seemed to have regained his focus.

Favorites

Actor: Sylvester Stallone

Shopping: London

Holiday Destination: London

Designers: Armani, Versace

Cuisine: Home Biryani

Causes associated with: Frequently visits sick children in hospitals, and also goes often to donate blood.

Hrithik Roshan

Bollywood Actor

Birth Name: Hrithik Rakesh Roshan

DOB: 10 January 1974, Mumbai, India

Status: Married to Suzanne Khan

Debut Movie: Kaho Naa Pyar Hai

Biography: Having grown up as an assistant to his father Rakesh Roshan, Hrithik made a brilliant debut in Kaho Naa Pyar Hai in 2000, thereby spawning a term called “Hrithikmania.”
The stunning debut showcased a handsome macho actor as well as a dancer in Hrithik. He has even been called Bollywood’s Sylvester Stallone, Brad Pitt and Michael Jackson rolled into one. His subsequent performances in films like Koi Mil Gaya and Dhoom 2 made sure Hrithik is a name to reckon with. He almost quit films when his father was shot in 2000, but, luckily for fans, decided against it.

Marriages: One (Suzanne Khan)

Most Remembered for: Kaho Naa Pyar Hai, Dhoom 2

Litigations: None (In 2001, rumours that Hrithik made derogatory remarks about Nepal and its people led to riots in Kathmandu. It was quelled after the actor clarified that he said nothing of the sort.)

Jail Terms Served: None

Role Models: Raj Kapoor and Sanjeev Kumar

Favorites:
Shopping: London

Designers: Armani, Versace, Anahita Adajania Shroff

Causes associated with: Visits mentally-ill children often

Aamir Khan

Bollywood Actor

Birth Name: Aamir Hussain Khan

DOB: 14 March 1965

Status: Married to Kiran Rao

Ex-Partners: Reena Dutt 1986-2002, 2 children

Debut Film: Holi

No of Marriages: Two
Reena Dutta 1986-2002, 2 children
Kiran Rao 2005 - Present

Most Remembered For: QSQT, Raja Hindustani, Lagaan, Directing Taare Zameen Par

Litigations involved: His brother Faisal once caused a media scandal by accusing Khan of mistreating him and forcing him to take medication. Faisal was said to be mentally unstable. On 31 October, 2007, the Bombay high court granted temporary custody of Faisal to their father, Tahir Hussain. Khan's family came out in a public statement supporting him on all counts in this matter. The statement was also signed by his former wife and the mother of his children, Reena Dutta.

Jail term served: None

Famous pairing: Juhi Chawla

Biography: Truly the most critically acclaimed among his peers, Aamir made his mark in Bollywood with the massive hit Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988), which was released when he was 23. Aamir is one of the three Khans that ruled Bollywood in the Nineties, the other being Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. Known as perfectionist, he insists on getting a finished script before committing to a film and also refuses to work on more than one film at a time. He does this to create believable characters, rather than just playing himself in film after film. Aamir will go to great lengths to give a convincing portrayal - like, it is said, drinking heavily in order to play a drunken scene in Raja Hindustani (1996), even though he doesn't drink in real life. Some critics call him the most complete actor today for his ablility to do diverse roles. He refuses to attend awards ceremonies saying he doesn’t believe in the authenticity of the selection and winning process.

He has given sterling performances in a string of blockbustes inccliding Dil (1990), Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin (1990), Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander (1992), Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke (1993), Andaz Apna Apna (1994), Rangeela (1995), Raja Hindustani (1996), Ishq (1997), Ghulam (1998) and Sarfarosh (1999), Lagaan (2001) and Taare Zameen Par (2007).

Favourites:
Actors: Raghuvir Yadav, Om Puri, Naseer, Dilip Kumar
Actresses: Waheeda Rehman, Geeta Bali, Madhubala, Sreedevi
Author: Leo Tolstoy
Causes associated with: Supports Narmada Bachao Andolan, Saukat Khanum Cancer Hospital in Pakistan
Star endorses: Titan, Coca Cola, Samsung, Innova

Deven

Deven to launch Gattu Tales

Gattu, played by Deven Bhojani, of Baa Bahu Aur Baby (Star Plus) is already one of the most popular faces on television. He is a character who is loved by people of all ages. And now, kids will find him entertaining them on more than such his TV show. Gattu is soon to be launched in his own comic book.

Deven tells us, “The book is titled ‘Gattu Tales’ and is divided into 5 volumes. Gattu tales will deal with stories picked from Gattu’s life; they will all be animal based stories. The stories will have certain parts which talk about Gattu’s friends too. His interaction with Baa can also be seen in small proportions.”

He explains further saying, “These five books will describe Gattu’s journey and will feature one animal in each book. For example, one book will be about Gattu and a monkey, another one is about Gattu and a squirrel, then Gattu and his parrot Tuii and similarly there are two more.”

Gattu Tales is published by Orient Blackswan Pvt. Ltd. and written by Esther David. It is created by Bookbox Indian Pvt. Ltd. Initially, it will be available in English, then in Hindi and Gujarati and later it will be available throughout the country in all languages.

Deven tells us that the reason the channel decided to take on this venture was because of the popularity of the character. He adds, “This book is launched with the association of the publisher and Star Plus. The book will have a cartoon of Gattu and there are many pictures too. Along with the book, a CD of the same is also available, so the kids can read it as well as see it in an animated form too.”

Deven told us that although he doesn’t contribute to this comic directly, he is very connected to it. “I am very close to this as it is about my character Gattu. It feels great when you realise that your character is so popular that something of this sort is being done for it. I didn’t know about this earlier. Even when JD came and told me, I couldn’t believe him. Then, when I realised it was happening, I was very excited about it,” he quips.

Deven says that this comic will serve as entertainment as well as have educational value for the kids. “These stories will be very unique and child friendly. It will be a little comical and along with that, kids can learn too. Every story will give a small message at the end to the kids. The language used will also help improve the vocabulary of the kids to an extent.”

Bhojani signs off saying, “I am sure the book will be a major hit as kids love Gattu and connect with him directly, they can enjoy as well as gain knowledge at the same time.”

Gattu

Director Deven

He is more than Gattu in Baa Bahu Aur Baby, or Raju in Ek Mahal Ho Sapno Ka, he was the man behind Sarabhai vs Sarabhai as the Diretor. With the show coming back, here are excerpts of an interview

One of the finest actors of Gujarati plays, Deven Bhojani is a name to be reckoned with in the Hindi television industry too. With his impeccable timing, he has made a huge name for himself as an actor who excels in comedy roles. Yet, it was in STAR One's Sarabhai vs Sarabhai that, he has created a fan following that is quite awesome. Deven is now not just as the lovable Gattu but also as the extremely talented director of this hugely successful serial.

Sarabhai vs Sarabhai that is currently is off the air now, will make its reappearance in another two months and naturally our very own Gattu will be an integral part of the serial. Both on camera and off it. Let's hear it out from the man online.

From Dekh Bhai Dekh to Baa Bahu aur Baby, it has been a long journey for you...
Yes, I started my career in 1986. That is exactly 20 years ago with a lovely serial called Malgudi Days. But though the serial was extremely popular, I had to struggle a lot. I've tried my hand doing lots of things. I learnt a few things during that period from different people. But right now, I am happy with my career. I know there is long way to go.

Of the various characters that you've done over the years, which has been your favourite character?
It's true that I have done comedy roles, mostly. But after 'Gattu', 'Raju' from Ek Mahal Ho Sapno Ka is my favorite character as it had various shades. I want to continue doing such roles.

How did Gattu's characterisation come about?
I discussed this role with writer Aatish Kapadia and JD. Over a period of four months we discussed lots of things about the character's gestures, posture, about his style of walking, talking and we experimented with them all.

I even watched some Hollywood movies but I didn't get anything out of it. So I went to visit a school for mentally challenged. When I saw them I was totally taken aback. I saw their work and it was amazing. I went over for the second time and observed about how they communicate what feel. But it took two months for Gattu's role to settle down in the serial.

What do you enjoy more - acting or directing?
Actually both. In acting you have to get into that character completely. You have to feel that role. Direction is a challenging job. You have to keep a check on the whole team. But I love to accept challenges.

I am happy about the awards which I received for Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. Awards give you the impetus which you require for work and it also increases your responsibilities.



Do you have any plans of directing the new episodes of Sarabhai vs. Sarabhai?
Yes, talks are on. If offered then I am definitely directing it. We are looking forward for freshness in the new episodes. There will be some one or two new faces in the series. But I will not reveal any details.

Meaning, Gattu will be upto new tricks and newer ways to entertain… Looking forward to seeing you around, Gattu!

Favourite Buzurg

Sarita Joshi as Baa
Serial : Ba Bahoo Aur Baby
Baa is 65yrs old. A good cook, she hails from a very rich family. She rules the house and has worked very hard to raise her children without any spport from her husband. A strict disciplinarian, she is the binding factor of the family. Baa is also very intelligent, sharp person. She has her own way of giving justice, sometimes she is point blank and ruthless, but does not mean any harm unless you have incurred it.

Meenakshi

Sucheta Trivedi as Meenakshi
Serial : Ba Bahoo Baby
An obedient, docile & domestic woman, very kind and emotional, always thinks about others. She has the capacity to judge people correctly and shares a very good relation with everyone in the house.

Favourite Bhabhi

Lubna Salim as Leela
Serial : Ba Bahoo Baby
Leela is arvind's beautiful wife, who always wanted to get married to a NRI from USA & settle there. But instaed she marries Arvind because of her father. She comes from a very rich family and cannot cope with the amount of work she has to do in a big joint family. She is very conscious about her looks and always laments about wanting imported & branded things.

Favourite Bhai

Deven Bhojani as Gattu
Serial : Ba Bahoo Baby
Gopal is the sixth son of Godavri and Labh. He is fondly called Gattu. Although physically grown, Gattu still has the mind of a child. He always makes senseless conversation and irritates others by chatting endlessly. He loves to give the reference of films. He is in love with Rani Mukherjee & wants to marry her. His other interests are playing with kids and eating all the time.

Benaf

Date of Birth: 17th August, 1987.
TV Debut: Hello Dollie.
Film Debut: Santosh Sivan’s Halo as a child artist.

Profile:
Benaf has won an international award as a child artist for Halo dreams of hosting a travel show.

Sarita Joshi

Date of Birth: 17th October, 1941.
TV Debut: A Serial called Titliyan (1980) directed by Nadira Babbar.

Profile:
She is the renowned Gujarati stage artiste and wife of late actor-director Pravin Joshi and also mother of two of renowned television actresses Ketki Dave and Purvi Joshi. She started her acting career as a child artiste in gujarati theatre at the age of 8 and then when at the age of 15 she played the lead actrees of a gujarati play ‘Amaldaar’. Her play ‘Santu Rangeeli’ ran for almost 9 years in Gujarat. However, her role of abhishekh bachan’s mother in mani ratnam’s Guru brought her in limelight on the bigger screen.

Mandira Bedi

Birth Name: Mandira Bedi

DOB: 15 Apr, 1972

Status: Married to director Raj Kaushal

Debut Movie: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge

Marriages: One

Most Remembered for: Hosting Set Max World Cup Cricket Extra Innings

Litigations involved: None

Jail terms served: None

Biography: Mandira Bedi was born in a Punjabi-speaking Bedi family based in Mumbai and completed her schooling from Cathedral & John Connon High School. Mandira started her television career with serial Shanti, after which she became quite famous. However, her silver screen debut happened with YashRaj’s Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. But failed to make a mark in bollywood similar to that of television. Mandira even hosted Set Max’s World Cup Cricket Extra Innings which got a lot of criticism for her costumes but eventually Mandira managed to become a household name and continues to host many televison shows.
Mandira married Bollywood Film Director, Raj Kaushal and has also acted in his movie 'Shaadi Ka Ladoo'.

Favorites:
Actor/Actress: Preity Zinta
Holiday destination: Srilanka and Cape Town (S.A)
Cuisine: Chinese and Vegetarian Indian food

Shabbir Ahluwalia

Birth Name: Shabir Sebastian Ahluwalia

DOB: 10 Aug

Status: Currently, dating an television actress Panchi Bohra. Has dated Sangeeta Ghosh

Debut Movie: Shootout at Lokhandwala

Marriages: None

Most Remembered for: His character of a gangster in Shootout at Lokhandwala

Litigations involved: None

Jail terms served: None

Biography: Shabbir was born to a mixed parentage that of a catholic mother and Punjabi father and has one sister and one brother. Shabbir Ahluwalia started as an television actor with the serial Kahiin To Hoga and continues to do both television as well as films. However, last year he did his silver screen debut with Apoorva Lakhia’s Shootout at Lokhandwala in which he played the role of a ruthless gangster along with Vivek Oberoi, Tusshar Kapoor and Ronit Roy. Apart from acting he has also the job of hosting an television dance reality show called Nach Baliye.

Currently, Shabbir is dating his co-star Panchi Bohra from his on-going serial on Star Plus Kayamath. But has dated his co-host of Nach Baliye, Sangeeta Ghosh.

Favorites:
Actor/Actress: Al Pacino, Julia Roberts, Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukherjee

Pankaj Kapoor

Birth Name: Pankaj Kapoor

DOB: N/A

Status: Married to Supriya Pathak. Was married to Neelima Azim

Debut Movie: Arohan

Marriages: One

Most Remembered for: His role in Maqbool and even as an detective for his TV serial Karamchand

Litigations involved: None

Jail terms served: None

Biography: Pankaj Kapur hails from Punjab and after completing his engineering from New Delhi, then joined National School Of Drama and continued doing theatre till he got his first major role in Gandhi. Till date Pankaj Kapur , as a director has done over 74 plays and serials like Mohandas B.A.L.L.B, Wah Bhai Wah, Sahabji Biwiji Ghulamji and Drishtanth, Kanak Di Balli, Albert's Bridge and Panchvan Savaar. Pankaj has always done roles which have meaning to it and does not hesitate to do roles which are unconventional. Of late, Pankaj will be most remembered best for playing a Duncan (William Shakespeare's Macbeth) inspired character in the critically acclaimed 'Maqbool'.

Pankaj Kapur was married to Neelima Azim with whom he has one son, Shahid Kapur who is also now an renowned Bollywood actor. But after his divorce with Neelima, Pankaj is now married to Supriya Pathak and they are proud parents on one son Ishaan Kapur.

Favorites:
Actor/Actress: Kishore Kumar

Irrfan Khan

Birth Name: Irrfan Khan

Status: Married writer Sutapa Sikdar

Debut movie: Salaam Bombay

No of marriages with names of spouse: One, Married to Sutapa Sikdar

Most remembered for: His role in Life in a Metro

Litigations involved: None

Jail term served: None

Famous pairing: Tabu and Konkona Sen Sharma

Biography:
Irfan Khan hails from Jaipur, India. He was midway through studying for an M.A degree when he won a fellowship at the National School of Drama (NSD) 1984. After his graduation in 1987, he moved to Mumbai where he worked in theatre and television.he got his big break in Bollywood when Mira Nair offered him a cameo in "Salaam Bombay" however the part was left out of the final copy.

Unrelenting Irfan continued to do television serials and gain a lot of success with them. In order to break away from television Irfan again tried his hand at a few main stream Bollywood films none of which met with success at the box-office. London based director Asif Kapadia gave him his first major break as the lead in "The Warrior". An historical film based on thelives of the locals in Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan.

"The Warrior" stormed in international film festivals making Irfan Khan a noticed actor. His first Bollywood main lead role came in the movie "Rog".

He is married to writer Sutapa Sikdar who's also a NSD graduate and they have a son named Babil.

Shekhar Suman

Birth Name: Manjunath Shekhar Suman

DOB: 14 Jun, 1960

Status: Married to Alka Kapoor

Debut Movie: Utsav

Marriages: One

Most Remembered for: His show Movers & Shakers on TV.

Litigations involved: None

Jail terms served: None

Biography: Shekhar Suman started as an television actor with serial Wah Janab. After which he did his debut in Shashi Kapoor's Utsav for which his performance was appreciated by the critics although the film bombed at the box-office. However, after some time Shekhar disappeared from the entertainment industry and returned to television with Dekh Bhai Dekh in 2003, as Sameer, and also affectionately called "Chachu”. Shekhar has been quite successful as a TV actor and host since, hosting a few quiz shows like Movers and Shakers, Simply Shekar, The Great Indian Comedy Show, Dial One aur Jeeto,Bid Bid Boom, He-Man, Poll Khol. In 2004, he was one of the judges of The Great Indian Laughter Challenge along with Navjot Singh Sidhu, a former cricketer. The show was a stand-up comedy contest of its first kind on Indian television.

Recently, he made his debut in singing, with a music album named 'Kuch Khwaab Aise', and is now coming up his new album which is supposed to be a melodious collection of eight love ballads whose music has been composed by Aadesh Srivastava and lyrics is by Shyam Raj. It has Brazilian and Kingfisher model – Bruna and the choreography, designing and direction of the music video has been done by Rajiv Goswami and the music is on T-Series.

Shekhar Suman married Alka Kapoor on May 4, 1984 and they have a son, Adhyayan who is all set to make it big on silver screen. Shekhar is constructing a hospital in Patna in the late memory of his eldest son, Aayush.

Favorites:
Actor/Actress: Amitabh Bachhan and Rani Mukherji
Cuisine: Dal Chawal, Baked and Grilled dishes, Fish, Chicken and Vegetables

MILEY JAB HUM TUM

The coolest kids in Mumbai are all jet set to heat up this winter with zest, energy and oodles of fun… while the horizon is set ablaze for them with hopes and aspirations, circumstances seem to eclipse them when Diya (the college diva) finds out that she needs to host two cousins… cousins as in "small towners"… and that is so NOT HAPPENING!

Mumbai has been their Utopia and their march towards it has just begun. The glass domes and glass bubbles they envisioned are about to become real. Gunjan and Nupur are about to float on to the blissfully everlasting wondrous mists that engulf city of dreams for million Indians and while Gunjan wants to cautiously wet her feet into the water before plunging in; Nupur cant wait to dive in to this sea of opportunities.

Where the sisters are awaiting the challenge of the big city, we see Diya along with her brother Uday gearing up to ensure that this dive is one the sisters will never forget and may be even live to regret. And a gang of youngsters are seen planning a welcome for these unassuming sisters.

The mild and reclusive Gunjan will venture out to find a special place for herself in a congested world and find herself increasingly attracted towards the one guy she fears... the one guy the entire college loves... the one guy who becomes the bone of contention between her cousin Diya and her... the one guy for every girl and woman: Samrat!

For Nupur it is a journey that imposes a reality check on the way she views life. A shattering of the bubbly and vivacious façade that aims to keep every one happy... for Nupur it is meeting Mayank, which truly is the fusion of fire and ice... of the need for balance in one's life. For nupur it is about learning to love the man she abhors.

This series presents a spectacular journey for all. For some of us who driven down the lanes of insecurities - first love, heart breaks, dreams and ambitions - and for some of us it is a glimpse into what lies ahead on the road yet to be taken.

Uday

Jas Karan Singh / Uday

Jas Karan Singh was born in Indore (Madhya Pradesh), but was brought up in Chandigarh and Bhopal. Has been living in Mumbai for the past 8 years. Started off his television career with Nagin (Zee TV) but Miley Jab Hum Tum is the first big break. After graduation worked for a mobile company for 2 years. Wants to be recognized as a good actor more then being called a hero.

About the character: Uday is a slow-dumb witted comic relief for the show. He tries to put up this brave exterior, but somewhere inside he is a scary poo. He is actually scared of many things - his sister, cockroaches, Samrat (but doesn't show it), the dark etc. He has all kinds of paraphernalia for exercise. MORE BRAUN - LESS BRAIN.

Diya hates his sweat! His towels! She can be a super bitch even to him. When she gets hollered by the Dad…Uday will be thrilled to bits...maybe roll in laughter on the bed without any sound! Her problem is that at home he is the only soldier she has in this war against Nupur & Gunjan, so she must bear him.

Diya is elder to Uday by a minute and she has always been bullying him.So the first chance he gets to bully someone… he grabs it! That's where Nupur and Gunjan come into the picture. He can put up a front of being a bully but this can at a later stage be shattered bit by bit by the two girls. Diya calls him DODO.

Diya

Navina Bole / Diya

Born and brought up in Mumbai, she is a commerce grad and a trained bharat natyam dancer. She always wanted to act. Started with modeling and gradually eased into acting. Have appeared in a lot of TV commercials for brands like Fair & Lovely, Dabur Vatika, Fair one, Chevrolet, Reliance, Nokia etc. Her best work to date would be three videos, which she shot for Jagjit Singh, Ghulam ali and Abida Parveen directed by radhika rao and vinay sapru.

She has also done videos for Amaan & Ayaan Ali Bangash, DJ Jayanta Pathak & DJ Taral. She was a runner up in Gladrags 2006 and also won Ms. Elegant sub-title. Although she has dabbled in TV before in shows like CID, Sshh koi hai, Lucky, Bhago KK Aaya etc, she considers MJHT her actual debut in TV and is very excited with her role.

She says, "I am a typical scorpion and have all the main traits of the sign which makes me intense, sensitive, possessive, passionate and ambitious. I love reading, solving crosswords, surfing the net, gymming, music, watching movies, driving fast, dancing, occasionally partying and above all catching up on sleep whenever I can."

About her character: She is the Diva in her college. She is the most hot and happening girl in college. Most of the girls are jealous of her and those who are not, they are in her gang. All the boys in the college are just too fascinated by her. She is a trendsetter in looks and carries her clothes with great confidence.

Everyone likes Diya, but she likes Samrat. She hangs around with him most of the time giving others an impression that Samrat is her boy friend but samrat doesn't think like that. This equaton takes a sharp turn when Samrat falls for Gunjan. Diya uses even Uday to get her things done. She has a gang of three chamchas - A,B and C who follow her in every aspect.

Nupur

Rati Pandey / Nupur

Her friends say that she is a Practical, fun-loving, bubbly and chirpy person. Having studied commerce, Rati was always interested in doing business and acting happened to her by fluke. She came to Mumbai from Delhi to try her luck and got noticed by Ajai Sinha, but her project with him didn't work out. She stayed back and tried her luck with other production houses and offers started pouring in.

She made her debut with television with Deepti Bhatnaghar's show Shaadi Street and played one of the main leads in Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai. She has also worked in two South Indian films. She is passionate about music and arts.

About the character: In small town (Morena), Nupur was like a spark of electricity for the lazy town. Outspoken and extroverted Nupur has the uncanny ability to chat and yap with anyone and any language. According to small town standards atleast, Nupur is a style icon of sorts. She always manages to conjure up ways of standing out of the crowd. she wears little ghungroos on her footwear, carefully matches hairband with an interesting salwar suit. Whatever you may say this girl is a Diva in Morena or atleast she believes that she is!

She has all types of friends from school to college to canteen and net friends. Motto in life: Chin up! In the City, she faces just the opposite of what she experienced in Morena. She finds it really hard to make even acquaintances forget making friends. Her find for a smart, handsome, popular dream man ends on Mayank who is a simple and somber personality.

Mayank

Arjun Bijlani / Mayank

"Acting happened by chance and when it did I realized I didn't want to do anything else. It became a passion," says Arjun. He started modeling for pocket money and did lot of print ads for BPL Mobile, Sugar free, LG and Samsung Phone. He got his first break in TV for a cameo role in Remix and a big break with Left Right Left. Presently he is working in Mohe Rang De and MJHT.

His achievements:
Nominations for Best Debut 2006 (Indian Telly Awards)
Best Actor Supporting Role 2008 (Indian Telly, Sansui Awards)
Performed at ITAA 2008


About the character: Mayank is a straight and focused academic. He is witty, well read, smart and intelligent and understands that hard work is what is going to help achieve goals for him. He will finally get along with Nupur, a girl completely opposite his character.

Gunjan

Sanaya Irani / Gunjan

Born and brought up in Mumbai, Sanaya entered the glamour world with Ads and modeling. After her stint with modeling she decided to try something new and entered the world of acting. She hasn't taken any acting course but is a natural performer. She got her first break with Left Right Left show and was also a part of show Radha Ki Betiyan.... She also did a cameo in film Fanaa.
She likes - Eating, shopping, loves animals
She dislikes - Cockroaches and liars

About the character: If her elder sister Nupur is like an energetic river, the younger Gunjan is like a still lake. She has a calming effect because of her contemplative nature. Even though the elder Nupur thinks that bachchi, as she calls her fondly, thinks too much. Even if she has to decide which way to take for her new college, she would go through all the pros and cons much to the irritation of the elder one.She has her own sweet charm. She is shy and reclusive. A studious girl who always came home from school and did her homework before she ate her food. Likes to live a simple non-complicated life. Gunjan was very close to her mother. She oftens misses her and talks to her picture. She doesn't share her feelings about mother with her father or elder sister. Though being a simple and calm character she ends up being with the hottest boy in the college - Samrat.

Samrat

Mohit Sehgal / Samrat

He was born and brought up in Delhi. He says, "I always wanted to do something big in life and my attraction to fame and glamour world was always there. I also felt that as an actor one can live through different characters and understand their nuances. So I have always dreamt of being an actor and I wouldn't say that it happened by chance, but would say that I have been working hard towards my dream."

Also worked in:

First break in film: Delhi Heights with Jimmy Shergil and Neha Dhupia. He played the character called Vicky.

He did a commercial AD for Dr. Batra (ON AIR).

Corporate AD 4 Maruti - Zen Estilo.

Print AD for Gatsby Hair Gel, Reliance P.C.O , Virgin Mobile and few magazines.

He has done full time professional acting course from Barry John.

About the character: Our hero of the college. Cool Dude... Fun loving. He is famous because he is good looking as well as he is the top sportsman in the college. He likes to play pranks but he doesn't mean to hurt anybody. Little overconfident Basket ball star who has won many trophies for his college. Girls drool over him.

Samrat's character is one of "MASTI" and not of a "kameena". So very clearly he prides everything he does. he jokes and takes light hearted pot shots but can never be projected as mean. Though he hangs out with Diya but his relationship with Diya isn't a committed one. He likes hanging around with Diya, as she is gorgeous but it is from Diya's perspective a relationship that is meant to happen.