Revealing the Dark Secrets behind Bollywood Relationships

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

In India, we have a special connect with our B-town celebrities, as we all love to know about everything that is happening in their lives, on screen as well as off-screen. Away from their romantic personas and their love towards their better halves that makes us swoon over them, Bollywood time and again, presents a picture that makes us question their ideas of love, commitment and fidelity in their relationships!

Bollywood, which has been the centre of hero worship and dream girls for over a hundred years, has no dearth of affairs, linkups, infidelity, break-ups, scandals and controversies, when you dig beneath the beautiful, glamorous surface. Let us take a look at this unknown side of what love and marriages mean to our beloved Bollywood celebs.

Different Side of Love: Secret Affairs and Break-ups

Even today, the most interesting news is about “which actor hooked up with which actress” or “who broke up with whom”. This interest in the love life of celebrity couples began years ago, perhaps since the times when superstars like Nargis and Raj Kapoor, and Dilip Kumar and Madhubala were romantically linked. As Raj Kapoor was already married, he refused to divorce his wife. After waiting for 10 years for him, and even requesting, the then Politician, Morarji Desai to make provision of second marriage in the Hindu Marriage Act, Nargis went on to marry her Mother India co-star Sunil Dutt.

Well, it seems that already married men seem to have a special magnetic charm when it comes to wooing stunning Bollywood divas. Years later, the Disco Dancer Mithun Chakraborthy and Sridevi were linked together. There was a time when people believed that the two continued their affair even after Mithun da tied the knot with Yogita Bali. What’s more? There were numerous reports that suggested that the two stars had secretly tied the knot as well. But, when Yogita Bali attempted suicide, Mithun broke all ties with Sridevi, who went on to marry another already married man, Boney Kapoor.

Speaking of tying the knot secretly, how many of you know that even Hema Malini and Jeetendra almost got hitched in South India? Of course, no one ever confirmed the story, but it is believed that they were stopped in due time by Jeetendra’s wife (then, his girlfriend) Shobha, and Dharmendra.

The inner world of B-town has numerous tales of such second marriages, secret weddings, and alleged affairs over the years. From the infamously-famous Amitabh-Rekha, Shatrughan Sinha-Reena Roy, and Akshay Kumar- Raveena Tandon- Shilpa Shetty to the latest bunch, Hrithik Roshan- Kareena Kapoor and Aditya Chopra- Rani Mukerji, the list is ever growing.

The Newer Ones Keep the News Rolling

Talking about the new bunch, we fast forward a couple of years to throw some light on the famous second marriage and linkups that have rocked Bollywood in the last decade. Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor, Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao, Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra, and many more, joined the list of those who “married the already married”.

Latest, to join this list are Rani Mukerji and Aditya Chopra, who shocked their ‘not-so-surprised” fans by secretly tying the knot in Italy in March, this year.

The break-ups of B-town couples too have been no less than a shock for their fans, because you never know when an “in love” couple will suddenly spring the surprise of being no longer together. Of course, there could not have been a split worse than Karisma Kapoor and Abhishek Bachchan. While everyone hoped that the first families of Bollywood would become one big happy family, things went amiss. No one ever knew the real reason, although some rumours blamed the Kapoor ladies for the fiasco. But, who knows?

One of the latest news of break-ups that shook the nation was that of Hrithik and Sussanne Roshan, who decided to go separate ways after a 13-year-long relationship. Well, this love marriage was one that most B-town and other couples swore by while professing their love, but then what happened between the two, again, who knows?

News of devoted Bollywood husbands cheating on and divorcing their wives are also things that leave their fans startled about the truth behind their ‘love stories’ and idea of ‘devotion and commitment’.

Underworld Connections and Illegitimate Affairs

We all know of Sanjay Dutt’s alleged underworld connections. But apart from that, even love affairs between Bollywood divas and underworld dons have been doing the rounds time and again. The Ram Teri Ganga Maili star, Mandakini had caught the attention of the most wanted, Dawood Ibrahim. The two were linked up extensively and the reports of a secret marriage surfaced too. And, not to forget, the more recent love affair of Monica Bedi and Abu Salem.

Monica was even rumoured to be living in with the don in Portugal, before the two were deported to India. Even the 90s diva Mamta Kulkari was allegedly in a relationship with underworld don Chhota Rajan, and even used the connection to intimidate big producers to sign her for their films.

Love and Children

Stepping up on the scandal quotient are stars who introduce their love children to shock their “traditional” fans and countrymen. Aamir Khan, it was rumored, had a love child with British Journalist, Jessica Hines.

However, there are only a few who ever truly accepted to have a child out of wedlock or were pregnant before marriage. It was Sridevi who acknowledge that she was expecting her first child before she got hitched to Boney Kapoor. Apart from her, it was Neena Gupta who had a child, Masaba Gupta, with cricketer, Sir Vivian Richards out of the wedlock. Even actress Sarika had two daughters with superstar Kamal Hassan while they were in a live-in relationship, before officially getting married. Well, we do certainly wonder if there are more.

Kiss and Tell

Another thing that Bollywood celebrities are fast becoming famous for are their “kiss and tell tales”, that is the secret MMS and sting tapes of their private moments coming out in public. Well, who remembers the infamous Kareena and Shahid lip lock MMS? The question actually is who doesn’t remember!

If all this wasn’t enough, starlets like Ashmit Patel and Riya Sen were caught amidst MMS controversies. It seemed like ‘kiss and tell’ became a style with many younger lot of strugglers and starlets, who were either looking for quick publicity or just met with the case of “bad timing”.

While the celebs continue to make all sorts of headlines, there is one thing that we can expect irrespective of the degree of truth- Entertainment, Entertainment, Entertainment!

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

11 Famous Bollywood And Television Celebrities Who Had An Arranged Marriage

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

We have told you about many celebrity love stories, be it Bollywood or television stars. But, this time, we bring to you the love stories that are quite hatke from those. We bring to you love stories of famous Indian celebs who met their better halves through the traditional “arranged marriage” route.

Yes, there are many Bollywood and TV stars, who were introduced to their better halves courtesy their parents or siblings. So, here are those Bollywood and TV couples who had an arranged marriage. And, let us just say, had some of these jodis not been introduced to each other by their parents or family members, we would have lost out on some amazing love stories and inspiring weddings!

#1. Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput

Let us start with the latest jodi on the block, Shahid and Mira. Yes, Bollywood’s quintessential chocolate boy, who made us fall in love with his “lover boy” roles time and again, is getting hitched the traditional arranged marriage way. Shahid and Mira met through the religious group, Radha Soami Satsang Beas. Both Shahid and his father, Pankaj Kapur, are followers of this group. And, it was papa Kapur who was instrumental in making this match happen. So, yes ladies, this is one of those arranged-cum-love marriages coming from Bollywood.

#2. Karan Patel and Ankita Bhargava

Moving from ‘might-be’ to ‘is’! The Yeh Hai Mohabbatein star Karan Patel, who just got married to TV actress Ankita Bhargava, has quite openly confessed about his match being an ‘arranged one’. The two were introduced by Karan’s co-star and friend, Aly Goni.

What’s more? Ankita’s father, Abhay Bhargava, incidentally plays Karan’s on-screen father-in-law in the show, Yeh Hai Mohabbatein. Talking about this marriage, Abhay Bhargava, in an interview to Daily Bhaskar, revealed:

“On 4th March 2015, I had thrown a party at my place and had invited Karan for it. In the party, Ankita and Karan saw each other and just in two days, they expressed their view on getting married to each other to their parents. It’s not at all a love marriage; in fact arranged by both the families.”

#3. Vivek Oberoi and Priyanka Alva

After falling in and out of love with Sallu Bhai’s ex- and Abhishek Bachchan’s present, Vivek Oberoi found his “happily ever after” with some help from his dad, Suresh Oberoi. Yes, Vivek and Priyanka had an arranged marriage. Even Priyanka’s mother, renowned dancer Nandini Alva, in an interview had said, “It is an arranged marriage and we are very happy.” A while before his wedding was announced, Vivek himself had said that he is absolutely game for an arranged marriage. In an interview in 2009, Vivek confessed:

“I don’t mind an arranged marriage. The girl my parents choose could be the girl of my dreams.”

And, he found that perfect girl, thanks to his parents!

#4. Madhuri Dixit and Dr. Shriram Nene

From all the men out there, to the ultimate diva of Bollywood! Madhuri Dixit too had an arranged marriage. She found her life partner, thanks to her brother, Ajit Dixit, who introduced her to her real-life hero, Dr. Shriram Nene. After suffering a heartbreak when her relationship with Sanjay Dutt failed to materialise, Madhuri took a small break in 1999, to visit her brother in USA. And, that is when she was introduced to Dr. Nene, who not only wooed her, but also stole her away from Bollywood for quite a while. Well, who could have thought that the Dhak Dhak girl of Bollywood would be losing her heart to a ‘dil ka doctor’ at the dinner table in her brother’s home! This is definitely a made-for-each-other jodi!

#5. Dhanush and Aishwarya

The actor who asked girls Kolaveri Di, and stalked Sonam Kapoor throughout Raanjhanaa, had an arranged marriage as well. And, that too with none other than another South Indian superstar, Rajinikanth’s daughter, Aishwarya. Dhanush himself is the son of a well-known Tamil director and producer, Kasthuri Raja. In an interview, the actor himself revealed the details of this match and confessed:

“It is an arranged marriage and both our parents have accepted the proposal.”

#6. Raj Kapoor and Krishna Raj Kapoor

The ultimate showman of Bollywood, Raj Kapoor, too had an arranged marriage, and that too at a very early age. Though Raj Kapoor and Nargis’ on- and off-screen chemistry was undeniable, Raj Kapoor never left his wife, Krishnawas Prithvi Raj Kapoor’s (Raj Kapoor’s father) maternal uncle’s daughter. In the book, Kapoors: The First Family Of Indian Cinema, by Madhu Jain, there is a quote by Raj Kapoor, where he states:

“Mine was the only arranged marriage among us brothers. Actually Krishna is my bua, my father’s second cousin. One fine day my father said, “You are getting married,” and I said, “Yes father”. That was in 1946 when I was 22 years old.”

 

#7. Govinda and Sunita

Yes, the 90s heartthrob too had an arranged marriage. He might have wowed many ladies with his on-screen antics, but when it came to finding a real-life life partner, this maa da ladla, went with his mom’s choice. He got married to Sunita in 1987, who was just 18 years old at that time. In the article, “The Loveable Hero”, by Anupama Chopra, in India Today, Govinda himself confessed:

“I came home one day from shooting and my mother said it’s high time I got married. Sunita and I were married the next morning at 4.30 a.m.” Govinda describes it as a love-cum-arranged marriage, “I never questioned my mother. I just tried to give her all the happiness that was in my hands.”

And, his marriage to Sunita was one such happiness he gave to his family and found himself too, thanks to them!

#8. Rakesh Roshan and Pinky

Yes, Rakesh Roshan too met his better half, Pinky, through the webs of a traditional arranged marriage. Though it has never been officially acknowledged by the Roshan couple, it was an article on Rakesh Roshan in Filmfare that revealed this bit. Pinky is the daughter of known Bollywood director-producer, J. Om Prakash, who has movies like Aap Ki Kasam and Arpan to his credit among others.

#9. Nikitin Dheer and Kratika Sengar

Coming from the heroes to the latest villain in Bollywood! “Tangaballi” of Chennai Express, too found his soulmate, TV actress, Kratika Sengar, thanks to his dad, Pankaj Dheer. When Nikitin’s father met Kratika for the first time during an audition for a short film, he had an instant liking for her. He even went on to say that he would love her to be his daughter-in-law. And, as luck would have it, Nikitin and Kratika did end up falling in love with each other, and got married in September, 2014.

Image Courtesy: The Wedding Salad

#10. Jay Soni and Pooja Shah

Jay Soni, who left many a hearts fluttering for him after his show, Sasural Genda Phool, also chose to settle down with a girl chosen for him by his parents. Gujarati boy, Jay himself revealed this detail and confessed:

“Our parents set-up this meeting but once we spent some time together it felt like I have known her for years. Even though it’s an arranged marriage, I am completely in love with her.”

Well, looking at their cute jodi and sweet chemistry on Nach Baliye 7, we definitely believe the last bit of that statement.

Image Courtesy: Busy Bee Photography

#11. Shraddha Musale and Deepak Tomar

Dr. Tarika, from CID, is another TV celeb, who found her life partner, thanks to her mom. Shraddha Musale, tied the knot to Lucknow-based, Deepak Tomar, in 2012. And, in an interview she revealed:

“We were introduced to each other by my mom a year back. We took our own time to know each other. Waise dekha jaye toh yeh arranged marriage hai, but over this one year, love ho gaya tha humein.”

Shraddha has also acted in the hit TV serial, Miley Jab Hum Tum.

Well, we love the fact that not only are these celebs fine with letting their family find them their life partners, most of them have been quite open about accepting this as well, quite positively! Cheers to love, be it found by “you” or by “your’s truly’s”!

Picture Abhi Baaki Hai Mere Dost!

Well, if you think that these are the only names that we have up our sleeves of Indian celebs who went for an arranged marriage, you are way off the mark then! We believe in creating some suspense, so stay tuned with us as we bring you two more of our special guides on Indian celebrities and their arranged marriages. And for now, all we would leave you with this preview of what is to follow… soon!

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

20 Famous Bollywood Divas And Their Wedding Day Look

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

(P.S.: This is one of my favourite articles, the amount of research I put in getting these images together was so exhilarating and kind of my first brush with Bollywood bridal fashion trend writing 🙂 )

Every girl loves to follow her favourite Bollywood diva when it comes to taking ideas on fashion and style, whether it is on-screen or off it. Especially, when it comes to choosing a perfect wedding day outfit, many brides-to-be still continue to look towards B-town for inspiration, before finding out what is trending in the fashion circles. Our Bollywood divas make stunning brides when they don their bridal fineries, and their wedding photographs are a proof of that.

From Neetu Singh and Jaya Badhuri to Madhuri Dixit and Kajol, right up to the younger lot, Kareena and Genelia, we decided to revisit the bridal look of our gorgeous Bollywood actresses. So, take a look at the most stunning Bollywood brides of all time.

#1. Sharmila Tagore

Let us begin with the royal bride, Sharmila Tagore. She broke her fans’ hearts when she got married to cricketer and the Nawab of Pataudi, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. She wore a stunning golden coloured gharara for her nikah. It was the same outfit that her daughter-in-law, Kareena Kapoor, wore on her D-day. Sharmila wore stunning bridal jewellery that not only matched with her outfit, but also added a royal charm to her look.

#2. Saira Banu

Saira Banu and Dilip Kumar are one of the most inspiring couples of B-town, who have stood by each other through thick and thin. For her wedding, Saira wore an elaborate gharara-style bridal outfit, with a simple dupatta, which she firmly kept in place on her head. The best part of the couple’s wedding photos are their twinkling eyes and bubbly smiles, which reveal a lot about their happiness and excitement that is simply hard to miss!

#3. Jaya Bhaduri

Jaya Bachchan nee Bhaduri, looked every bit charming, coy and ravishing in a red bridal saree, complete with traditional Indian wedding jewellery.

#4. Neetu Singh

The bubbly Neetu Singh, and debonair Rishi Kapoor, make a perfect couple, both on- and off-screen. Though there is certainly a dearth of good quality photographs from Neetu Singh and Rishi Kapoor’s wedding on the Internet, we made special efforts to gather the best of the lot.

#5. Hema Malini

Hema Malini and Dharmendra had quite a private wedding. It was a typical South Indian ceremony, where Hema wore a saree. She kept her look minimal, with a simple bridal jewellery set.

#6. Dimple Kapadia

When Dimple Kapadia and superstar Rajesh Khanna tied the knot, it was a wedding that stayed in everyone’s mind for a long time. Keeping true to the most preferred bridal outfit of those days, Dimple too opted for a saree. Dimple’s bridal jewellery definitely stood out, and it was her stunning nath that took the centre stage!

#7. Madhuri Dixit

Madhuri Dixit and Dr. Sriram Nene got married in a hush-hush ceremony, but we have their wedding reception photographs here for you. Madhuri, looked stunning in golden ethnic wear, with elaborate and intricate work on it. She matched it with a net dupatta. This minimal look, combined with matching gold jewellery, made the diva look like a million bucks. What stood out in her look were those beautiful bangles that adorned her wrists.

#8. Kajol

Kajol and Ajay Devgn tied the knot in a typical Maharashtrian ceremony, and Kajol look every bit traditional in a green saree. Her look was complete with traditional bridal jewellery of the region, along with a nath, green chooda, and vaaki (armlet).

#9. Sridevi

Here (on the left, in the below image) is the only photo of Sridevi and Boney Kapoor’s wedding, which is to be found on the Internet. Sridevi looked like a traditional South Indian bride, given her bright saree and minimal jewellery. What stood out in her look, apart from her bubbly smile, was her deep red lip colour that just looks perfect with this traditional look.

#10. Twinkle Khanna

Elder daughter of superstar Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia, got married to casanova Akshay Kumar, in 2001. The actress stuck to a bride’s favourite colours- red and gold. She kept her bridal avatar minimal with simple jewellery, and just a statement maang tikka stole the limelight!

#11. Raveena Tandon

Raveena, who was known for her whirlwind romance with Akshay Kumar, tied the knot with producer, Anil Thadani, in 2004. She too stuck to traditional Indian colours, but what stood out of her whole look was a full-sleeves choli. Given that the wedding took place in winters, it seemed like a smart decision, and a style statement for other brides to steal as well. She also wore a Punjabi chooda, and a deep red lip colour that looked stunning on her fair skin.

#12. Karisma Kapoor

Karisma’s bridal look gets a thumbs-up for her choice of colour for her outfit. The pink bridal wear definitely made her stand out from most of her contemporary brides who might or might not have made it to our list. Though, the ever-so-fair Karisma looked heavily decked up in the intricately embroideredlehenga choli, matching jewellery, traditional chooda and kalire, she carried it off so effortlessly and beautifully.

#13. Kareena Kapoor

We know that we are jumping a little way too ahead, but the Kapoor sisters deserve to be mentioned together. Unlike her elder sister, Bebo had a number of wardrobe changes on her wedding day. In the morning of the wedding registration, Kareena opted for a comfortable green churidar kurta and a contrasting red dupatta. In the evening, she wore her mother-in-law, Sharmila Tagore’s wedding gharara, which was restored by Ritu Kumar. For the reception, she slipped into a burgundy lehenga with a maroon dupatta designed by Manish Malhotra. Kareena wore heavy gold and kundan jewellery on both the occasions that took place in the evening.

#14. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Aishwarya wore a traditional, golden yellow Kanjeevaram saree on her D-day, complete with Swarovski crystals and gold threadwork. The bridal saree was designed by Neeta Lulla. She kept her hair braided, and covered with flowers. She wore 22 karat gold jewellery, which included a gold and emerald armband.

#15. Malaika Arora Khan

We just could not miss out on this stunning white bride while talking about beautiful brides from B-town. Malaika, true to her image, chose an off-shoulder wedding gown, with a plunging neckline. The simple string of pearls added the right amount of oomph to her look.

#16. Konkona Sen Sharma

This is one couple whose relationship status, both before and after marriage, has given enough fodder to the rumour mills. But, keeping all aside, when this dusky Bengali beauty tied the knot with Ranvir Shorey, she made a resplendent bride. She chose to wear her grandmother’s traditional gold jewellery, which matched her golden bridal outfit.

#17. Gul Panag

Gul Panag had a traditional Sikh wedding ceremony in a Gurudwara, in Chandigarh. She opted for an onion pink lehenga for her D-day, which was designed by JJ Valaya. Her bridal look was complete with a heavy gold neckpiece, earrings and maang tikka, studded with contrasting green stones. And, she even added cool glares to comfort her eyes during the daytime wedding. She looked like a truly cool bride, we say!

#18. Genelia D’Souza

The much-in-love couple, Genelia and Riteish Deshmukh, tied the knot on February 3, 2012. For the Maharashtrian wedding, Genelia wore a bridal saree, designed by the Bollywood brides’ favourite designer, Neeta Lulla. The saree had a gold kundan border. Traditional Maharashtrian jewellery completed Genelia’s wedding day look.

#19. Esha Deol

The elder daughter of yesteryear superstars Hema Malini and Dharmendra, wore a bright red and gold lehenga, designed by Neeta Lulla, for her D-day. Her lehenga was made by combining three heavy Kanjeevaram sarees, which were specially ordered from South India. The dress was complemented by heavy traditional temple jewellery in gold.

#20. Aamna Sharif

Aamna looked as stunning as ever when she donned a bridal look that simply left her fans (and, we are sure, her fiance too!) floored. With a stunning colour combination of red, orange and gold in her lehenga choli, Aamna opted for traditional gold bridal jewellery. And, with chooda and kalire, she looked like a true Punjabi bride.

So, don’t you think that these Bollywood divas look as stunning off-screen brides as they do in their movies? We think they all looked simply beautiful, especially when they donned their bridal look, and married the man of their dreams!

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

This Epic Proposal Scene From Bollywood Will Surely Leave You Inspired And Laughing

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

There is so much that Bollywood films tell us about love, relationships and marriages. They don’t just entertain us; they also leave us inspired at times. Yes, whether it comes to wooing or expressing your love, you can rely on a Bollywood movie to steal an idea or two. Well, we can say the same thing when it comes to proposing your sweetheart for marriage. And, we are not talking about Shah Rukh Khan or Salman Khan-style of proposing. We are going to go way back… way back to the Showman of Bollywood- Raj Kapoor! Yes, it is time to learn the art of making a perfect marriage proposal from the master himself. To know what we are talking about, you have to see this scene from the 1960 classic, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, starring Raj Kapoor and Padmini.

WATCH: MOST EPIC BOLLYWOOD PROPOSAL SCENE!

Well, after seeing this one we are sure you would forget SRK’s izhaar-e-mohabbat (expression of love) in Dil Toh Pagal Hai or Aamir Khan’s proposal in Dil Chahta Hai. Guys, it is time to go classic and steal some wooing tips from the Raj Kapoor. After all, he did make his lady blush like none other, right?

Why to go for such proposal?

Well, this is how a true gentleman would propose. Get your intentions straight out, and let the lady know that you have already chosen the names of future kids, and now all that is left is finding a mother for them.

There is no beating around the bush like, “jab se maine tumhe dekha hai…”, or “jab tum aati ho toh meri saanse rukk jaati hain”. You come straight to the topic at hand and get over with it, “kammo ji…aap mere uss lalle ki maa banengi?” (Will you become the mother of my future son?). Now, how can anyone refuse such an innocent offer?

Step-by-step guide to ace such a proposal

Firstly, find a name for your future kid… your lalla!
Our suggestion: Please skip Shri Ganga Prasad, because it was already taken at least a few good decades back.

Ok, sorry that was the only joke we are going to crack here; so, coming back to the serious business! How to make a proposal in the style of the showman of Bollywood- Raj Kapoor:

Find an innocent and sweet girl (P.S.: someone who would blush and not hit you).

Find a right spot- a sunsaaan si jagah! Yes, a proposal should be a special moment that should stay between a couple only.

Next, stare at your lady love…

After she gets conscious of your stare and asks you “What’s up?” gear up, because this is it!

All you have to do is utter those magical words… “Kya tum mere bacchon ki maa banogi?”

And well, as they say… Rest is history!

Well, we always believe that almost every Bollywood movie has something worth taking inspiration from. That is why, here we are to collect such rare gems and bring them to you. And well, we are sure that if this proposal doesn’t make your life exciting and happening, it will certainly make your day all the more brighter, what say?

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

Katrina Kaif Tells You When Is The Right Time To Get Married And We Agree

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

Shaadi sahi time pe ho jaye toh aacha hai!

Shaadi ki umar ho gayi hai tumhari!

Abhi nahi karni kya hota hai? Umar nikal jayegi, tab karoge kya shaadi?

Logg kya kahenge, jawaan beti ko ghar mein baitha rakha hai?

Tumhare doston ki shaadi hone laggi hain, kuch ke toh bacche bhi hain. Tum kya akele rahogi humesha?

When is the ‘right time’ to get married? Or, why should I get married?

These are some questions that almost every Indian girl and guy comes face to face with as soon as they turn “the right age”. Well, according to our government, it is 18 and 21 respectively; and our society always follows what government says, right? (Did someone mention Sec. 377?)

P.S.: Seriously consider yourself lucky if you didn’t get faced by these things before turning 25 or 27!

Image Courtesy: Love Breakups Zindagi

What is this “right time” that everyone at home and in the society keep hammering, we wonder? Especially when it comes to Indian girls, “it is the right time”, is a sentence with which all marriage discussions start and end. Is it the time when I become “legally” adult? Is it the time when my friends start getting hitched? Is it the time when suddenly every single auntyji, who keeps their ears close enough to everyone’s family, hear my biological clock ticking away?

Image Courtesy: Rockstar

And, once you get out of the “it is the right time baby” (a-ah!) conversation, you are surrounded by lines like, “you have a younger sister as well, we have to think of her after settling you”, “old age mein dost saath nahi rehte, so get married”, “humare baad koi toh chahiye tumhara dhyan rakhne wala”, “tum humme kush dekhna chahti hoy a nahi?”, or the ever famous, “logg kya kehenge?”

Image Courtesy: Housefull 2

And, faced by all these things telling them of “right time” and “right reasons”, many women either land themselves in marriages that they are not ready for or can’t handle, or relationships that are not right for them.

So, when is the right time to get married, you may ask, just like us? Well, let’s hear it all from Katrina Kaif only, who herself is 31 years of age (looks 25, right?), and is happily unmarried. We don’t know if Katrina gets it right ‘when to get married’, but she certainly knows ‘when not to’! Just watch:

WATCH VIDEO: KATRINA TELLS YOU WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO MARRY!

Just like Katrina Kaif, we also believe that there is a right time and a right reason to get married, but it is not the one that everyone else says or thinks so. It is when you are sure you have met someone who deserves you! And well, we want to add just one more- it is when you feel sure that you are ready!

So, get married, but not because it would make everyone else happy. Do it by being selfish, do it to make yourself happy, do it because it is your choice, and do it only when you find someone who can be the “right reason” and can make you feel like it is the “right time”!

(This article was originally written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

10 Bollywood Songs For A Couple To Dance At Their Wedding

(This article was first written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

Weddings are an ocassion filled with a lot of beautiful moments and emotions. This is also a time that calls for celebrations and merriment. When we come to Indian weddings, dance and music are truly an integral part of it. In fact, Indian weddings are synonymous with foot-tapping music. However, there is one problem. There are so many songs from Indian movies and albums that it becomes a confusing task to choose some for a wedding.

This confusion, further becomes a challenge when it is the turn of the lovely couple to select a song for their special dance during the sangeet or sagan ceremony. Well, if you are all set to tie the knot, you too must be searching for that one perfect song that would set the right mood when you and your sweetheart come on the floor. Here is some help for you.

Take a look at the five most romantic numbers that would help you two to steal away some intimate moments even as you are crowded by your friends and family. Also, if you are looking for something more upbeat and groovy, then we also have the top five dance numbers for you. So, here you go:

Tum Se Hi (Jab We Met)

To start with, how can we not add this song from Jab We Met? Perfect for young lovers, especially those who share a beautiful friendship with each other. Shor mein khamoshi hai, thodi si behoshi hai…tum se hi. Just beautiful, isin’t it? (Click here to watch this song)

Khuda Jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno)

Ranbir and Deepika share a sizzling chemistry in this song, and if you and your would-be share a similar one, then this song is perfect for you lovebirds. It is a beautiful song with simple and melodious beats, which makes it quite an easy option for you to match your steps on. (Click here to watch this song)

Pehli Nazar (Race)

When you are looking for love songs, you just cannot ignore this romantic number by Atif Aslam. If you feel loved, then this song will touch your heart, and of all those around you too. Har dua mein shamil tera pyar hai…bin tere lamha bhi dusvaar hai…tujhse hai raahatein…tujhse hai chaahatein. This definitely spells love! (Click here to watch this song)

Main Waari Jaavan (Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya)

On-screen or off, this is one Bollywood couple that is always there to spread the words of romance and love. “Chupke nigaho nein dil se ishq ka wada koi kar liya.” So, promise each other your love and commitment with this romantic number. (Click here to watch this song)

Teri Ore (Singh is Kinng)

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Shreya Ghoshal’s voices just take you away to the land of love. This is a perfect song if you and your beloved wish to create a romantic and passionate memory to cherish always. “Rishta naya rabba, dil chuu raha hai, kheeche mujhe koi dor teri ore.” A great way to express your new relationship. (Click here to watch this song)

Chal Pyar Karegi (Jab Pyaar Kisise Hota Hai)

If you want a song that keeps the mood up and has some ched-chad in it, then this the song is for you. It is a beautiful number for a couple who loves to show off their dance moves and teasing chemistry. (Click here to watch this song)

Bole Chudiyan (Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham)

A dance number for the bride and the groom, where even their friends and family can join in. You can certainly trust on Karan Johar to give you a perfect mix of groove and romance, like he does in this song! (Click here to watch this song)

Saajanji Ghar Aaye (Kuch Kuch Hota Hota)

This movie is filled with beautiful songs for a couple to pick from. Our favourite, however, is this ched-chad number of Salman Khan and Kajol. This song has some romantic and emotional lines in it as well. What’s more? This song is picturised at a wedding itself and so, is perfect for one! (Click here to watch this song)

Tunne Maari Entriyaan (Gundey)

One latest number that we have loved and are adding to our list is this one. This is a high-on energy number for you both to show off some crazy Bollywood dance moves on. It is not about weddings, but it definitely a Bollywood number to add to your list! (Click here to watch this song)

Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (Mujhse Shaadi Karogi)

What can be a better way to groove at your own wedding than this number, which would help you to declare your love. We especially recommend this number for that couple who never really had an ‘official’ proposal. Guys, time to propose your lady love in front of everyone at your wedding, we say! (Click here to watch this song)

So, haven’t we made your song selection a whole lot easier? If there is song that you feel should be on our list then do let us know by leaving your comments below. And, don’t forget to share this list with your other to-be hitched friends as well!

(This article was first written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

(This article was first written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

What can be more fun than just shedding all your inhibitions and dancing to beats that gets the best out of you (or, maybe the worst). Guys, we are talking to all of you. Most Indian men are too shy to show off their dance moves, or rather their two left feet.

Well, for all you men, who are too shy to show off your true colours (we mean just the dance moves here!), look at this video and you will realise why you need to come out of your shell. Well, you never know what makes you the talk of the town, right?

(WATCH THE VIDEO)

Yes, this is for your eyes and enjoyment only! Who says only girls can groove to songs likeBaby Doll, these young men leave no stone unturned to show off their crazy (and scarily synchronised) dance moves.

The only time you can see Indian men dancing is during a wedding when they are surrounded by many more, and know that no one has their eyes on them. So, this one comes as a refreshing break when you see our desi boys dancing with “Sunny Leone” moves!

Our word to all you men out there, whether it is your bachelor party or your wedding, stop making excuses that you can’t dance and just come and groove with your buddies and better halves. As we said, who knows what makes you go “trending”?

(This article was first written and published for BollywoodShaadis.com)

Badman Ready To Bring Artist MF Hussain Alive On-screen?

A film is being planned around the life of MF Hussain, and who is touted to be the front-runner to play the artist in the film- its Bollywood badman, Gulshan Grover. The film is not a biopic, but artist M.F. Hussain’s art and life is said to be the inspiration behind it. The film is being directed by adman Shashank Shekhar. Gulshan Grover is all set to don the get up of the renowned artist, to get into the skin of the leading character of the film.

Gulshan Grover will be sporting long hair coupled with the trademark stubble, and will also be moving around bare-foot. The Bollywood actor is trying to be as authentic as possible for the role, borrowing heavily from his own personal interactions with the artist. Gulshan Grover has been quoted saying, “I’m in an interesting phase of my career with filmmakers putting greater faith in me as an actor. When I was offered the role, inspired by the legendary artist and woven in a touching story, I loved it and took it up.”

The actor has even interacted with a lot of other artists to prepare for the role, and has started practicing painting as well. He further adds, “Art was a subject during my academic years. But for the role, I took lessons from my painter friends to get some nuances right for authenticity in my performance. Besides, of course, putting in from my experience of interacting with Husainsaab.” The other details in relation to the film or its makers is still being kept under wraps for now, which is understandable assuming the fact that a film exploring M.F. Hussain’s art and life, might not go down well with all sections of the society.

(this article was first written for www.popcracker.com )

Get Ready To Face French-Fry-Legged Bacon-Cheese-Spiders In Cloudy 2

It’s been raining sequels in Hollywood this year, and seems the showers are likely to continue in the future as well.Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs is coming back with Cloudy 2: Revenge of the Leftovers. The sequel will be picking up from right where the first one ended. After the town of Shallow Falls is cloaked by the food menace caused by Flint’s lip-smacking invention, now it is in dire needs of a clean-up crew. While the first film was directed by Chris Lord and Phil Miller, the sequel will be directed by Cody Cameron and Kris Pearn, both of whom were key members of Cloudy 1 team. Chirs and Phil remain a part of Cloudy 2 as the executive producers on the sequel. Cody Cameron was a story artist for Cloudy 1, and he has previously directed Open Season 3; while Kris Penn was the head of story for Cloudy 1 and a story supervisor on Arthur Christmas.

Want to know what’s going to happen in Cloudy 2? Here is a peek-a-boo. Cloudy 2 picks up soon after the events of the first film with the town of Swallow Falls in dire need of a clean-up crew.

Enter Chester V (Will Forte), a full-on odd-ball scientist, who runs the company Live Corp. Chester has a lip-stick wearing, talking orangutan, named Barb (Kristen Schaal). Live Corp has been charged with cleaning up the island after Flint’s contraption, that turned water into food, led to a mess of huge pancakes, pizza slices and, of course, meatballs garnishing the pulverized town in the original film. But what Chester doesn’t know is that the machine (FLDSMDFR, remember that) is still sputtering away somewhere — only now it’s pumping out living pickles, a walking, gibberish-talking strawberry named Barry, and creatures like the giant, french-fry-legged bacon cheese-spider which lords over the abandon town like a massive cholesterol-spiking tarantula. The sequel also see inventor Flint (Bill Hader) and his love-interest meteorologist Sam Sparks (Anna Faris), returning to the town of Shallow Fall to help the cleaning crew battle the edible monster that are a creation of Flint’s machine only.

 

In an interview, producer Kirk Bodyfelt joked about the sequel saying, “Magically, every creature is a combination of a food item and an animal that results in just a cringe-worthy pun.” The sequel also sees the return of many other characters from Cloudy 1, such as James Caan as Flint’s terse, unibrow-furrowing father, Andy Samberg as local celebrity Baby Brent, and Benjamin Bratt as Sam’s jack-of-all-trades cameraman Manny. Sony Pictures Animation will release Cloudy 2: Revenge of the Leftovers in 3-D on Feb. 7, 2014.

Boman Irani Wants To Call Shots

Seems like working with so many directors and even acting opposite one, has awakened a special love and respect for the art in actor Boman Irani. The actor, who is a professional photographer, is now looking forward to try his hand at direction as well. “I would like to make a movie; I’d like to direct the movie. I don’t know what time (when), but all I know is I would like to make a film about human spirit,” says Boman, who is out promoting his upcoming film, Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi. In the film he is seen romancing choreographer-turned-director Farah Khan.

Boman has said that after entering films, he has met a lot of people who taught him the nuances of working behind the camera. Though the actor is not yet clear of what project it will be or when, yet he knows what kind of film he would like to make. “I would like to make film about people, people interest me a lot. I like human beings, I don’t like too much violence, unfortunately,” says the 52-year-old actor. The progression from acting to direction has come quite naturally to many Bollywood and Hollywood film stars. Actors such as Clint Eastwood, George Clooney, Ben Affleck, Aamir Khan, Aparna Sen, Rakesh Roshan, Dev Anand, Raj Kapoor, and many more have had quite a successful stint at box office with the films that they have directed.

Boman is one of the most versatile actors of Bollywood, who has proved his acting talents in all sorts of films, be it art film, serious drama, or light-hearted comedies. On one hand while the actor has held audiences with his performances in Being Cyrus, Munnabhai series, Khosla Ka Ghosla, 3 Idiots, etc.; he has also acted in films such as Housefull, Shaadi Se Phele, Heyy Baby, Yuvraaj, etc. Based on the kind of films Boman has done, it will be difficult to assess what kind of film he will churn out, but going by his acting talent one can say that it will be interesting to see Boman take a stand behind camera, which might be as interesting as his acting. Now, wait and watch.

(This article was first published here)