Two years after Fanah, Kajol lights up the screen once more in U Me Aur Hum. Entertainment Editor, CNN-IBN Rajeev Masand caught up with the actress. ... Rajeev Masand: We are going to see you in U Me Aur Hum that your husband Ajay Devgan has directed. Did he talk to you about this project when he was developing it just as a project that he wanted to direct and that you come on board later, how did he put it into play? Kajol: We were just talking about it and I thought that the script sounded really exciting. I asked him what the basic idea was and it was superb. And that was what really got the ball rolling. It just evolved after that. Actually speaking the script that we heard and what we eventually made came out to be totally different. ...
Chaitanya Padukone Monday, February 18, 2008 23:59 IST
The Shava Shava winner will cut an album of the late singer’s numbers
Actor-model-singer Sumeet Raghavan (Sarabhai vs Sarabhai), who emerged winner in the show Shaava Shaava judged by Karan Johar and Simi Garewal, now plans to launch an album as a tribute to the legendary singer Mohammed Rafi. “Yes, it’s my mission to record an album with some of my favourite Rafi numbers. Possibly, there could be duets too with the Shaava Shaava female contestants,” enthuses Sumeet who had actually given up hopes that he would ever win.
But what was the rationale behind his pessimistic thinking? “All the other contestants were immensely popular thanks to their respective characters in the daily soaps. But I am known for acting mainly in sitcoms or thrillers. I have never been identified with a specific TV character.” He adds, “But I guess the audiences observed singing potential in me and eventually catapulted me to victory.”
Sumeet is also thrilled about sharing screen space with a actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ajay Devgan. “It’s strange that I am playing a doctor in both Ajay Devgan’s U Me Aur Hum and also in In Such Times directed by Nandita Das.”
He says of his role in U, Me aur Hum, “I play Ajay’s buddy in the first half. The film is also about male bonding and we are shown cracking naughty jokes. I am paired opposite Divya Dutta to whom I am unhappily married,” says Sumeet who can’t stop praising Devgan as a director. “It was amazing to observe director Ajay in command. When one plan would fizzle out, he would have two more back-up plans ready,” he insists. Sumeet is also shown playing student to ustaad Naseeruddin Shah, in In Such Times, which is set against the backdrop of the Gujarat riots. “Working with Naseersaab, helped me imbibe so much. I realised that I am nothing compared to him,” signs off Sumeet who is a trained classical singer and as a kid had recorded over 150 jingles.
Harry Baweja's desi version of Sean Connery-Nicholas Cage flick, The Rock turned out to be nothing like his previous kerchief capers like Dilwale and Imtihan.
Instead, the Ajay Devgan-Suniel Shetty-Neha Dhupia-Riya Sen starring hostage drama, in Hollywood tradition, delivered a high dose of slick action, peachy camera work and gadget-friendly moments.
Like it's original, the copy, too, met with a swell response at the ticket counters.
Actor Kajol is the favourite of many. So as she returns to the silver screen with hubby's U, Me Aur Hum, her fans look forward to it all. But who is her fave actress and who does she think should make a comeback on the n big screen? "It would have to be Sridevi," says Kads. Well, with husband Ajay Devgan having turned director-producer, we're sure the Devgans themselves can make this possible. And the title could well be U, Me Aur Sri!
Ajay Devgan once touted to be the next Big B or rather the guy who was capable of portraying emotions through his eyes has seen plenty of flops when it comes to romance.
Ishq was quite forgettable, Ajay. Stick to hard hitting films like Gangajal or Apaharan.. you are the best..
Tusshar is extra-kicked about reprising his role as the mute and deaf in Golmaal Returns. This time it's his old pal Kareena with whom Tusshar gets to share screen space. "And we're playing siblings. That's right. Kareena plays my sister in Golmaal Returns! Isn't that cool?" Well, not quite cool because audiences will now expect Kareena to be Tusshar's onscreen Ekta.
Tusshar laughs off the insinuations. "Nothing of the sort. Have you forgotten that Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya played siblings in Josh? They were soon after accepted as an intense couple in Mohabbatein. And what about Nana Patekar and Manisha Koirala? They played father-daughter and husband-wife in two films that were released during the same year (Khamoshi and Agni Sakshi). Earlier Sanjeevji and Jayaji were a married couple in Gulzar Saab's Koshish and father-daughter in Parichay during same year.
Considering these films came decades ago, surely today's generation would have no problem knowing Bebo and I are only acting as brother and sister. I'd love to do an intense love story with her immediately after this." Tusshar incidentally, feels very comforted by 'sister' Kareena's presence in Golmaal Returns.
"Earlier when we did Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai together, she was moody and into her own shell most of the time. Today she has mellowed down so much. And she's looking stunning these days," Tusshar ends appreciatively.
10 years ago Ajay Devgan and Kajol teamed up in a sugary romance called Pyar To Hona Hi Tha. 3 years later they again joined hands for Raju Chacha. And now the real life pati and patni are sharing screen space again in Ajay’s directorial debut U Me Aur Hum! The film’s promos first came out with Halla Bol, and ever since then they’ve been generating a lot of interest, for many different reasons. For starters, everyone’s wondering if Ajay’s directorial skills can match Aamir Khan’s. Apart from that, Kajol’s fans are already gearing up to see the actress back in action. Well, the film is scheduled to hit cinemas on the 11th of April, so keep an eye out for it! Right now, here’s a sneak peek!
Ajay Devgan is unbeaten in comedies. As the genre weaves magic in the box office, it makes the actor ponder on its success mantra. "There is so much stress in our lives and comedies help them unwind," says Devgan, whose last release Sunday, again a comedy, opened to poor box office reception.
"But as an actor, I hope genres to work as well, though I enjoy working in comedies as well," he adds. The actor has his directorial debut U, Me Aur Hum coming up next.
If all goes on well, Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif will act together in a new film titled London Dreams. It is said that filmmaker Vipul Shah has decided not to cast his favourite actor Akshay Kumar for this film. The news is doing the rounds that he will produce as well direct Rajkumar Santoshi's shelved film London Dreams with Salman and Katrina in the lead.
Sources said that Bobby Deol also has been signed to play Salman's friend in the film. Ajay Devgan was supposed to play Bobby Deol's role in Rajkumar Santoshi's film. However, Vipul Shah refused to reveal the cast of the film. He said that nobody has been finalised for the film. He added that he would announce the cast in a week's time.
It was also reported that Vipul needs special permission from Rajkumar Santoshi, as he has rights to the script. However, Vipul said that he has re-written the script, based on his take on Santoshi's script.
As Devgan’s directorial U, Me aur Hum, gears up for release, readers give their views on whether the jodi will dig gold at the box-office once more
YOU SAY But of course! An actor like Kajol always gives her best, no matter what role she portrays or who she is paired up with. More than anything else, I am looking forward to Kajol and Ajay (after Ishq and Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha) on the big screen. Sachin Rathod, gym instructor
Ajay and Kajol have chemistry that I wouldn’t say is the best, but definitely something that you would be interested in. Also, with age, I think Kajol looks all the more charming. Arun Nair, BPO employee
I am looking forward to seeing Kajol back on screen. Ajay never really left films but now that he is making a directorial debut, it will be very interesting to see what magic both of them can create once again. Sunita Lalwani, homemaker
Ajay and Kajol have always shared a great professional rapport and that’s something, which comes across easily. I still remember their chemistry in Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha. It made me fall in love with the two. Shweta Gulati, student
I am really looking forward to the movie—not for anything else but for Kajol. She has always proved herself to be a fine actor and with time has matured immensely. And it’s especially exciting to watch her with hubby Ajay! Sonam Kalra, photographer
WE SAY Nothing that Ajay Devgan attempts can be dismissed as trivial. Moreover, he is making his directorial debut with U, Me aur Hum, and has even cast his wife and actor Kajol opposite him. So you can bet that a lot of planning and involvement has gone in the project. While Ajay’s intensity and Kajol’s spontaneity has constituted the cornerstone of their chemistry, it’s to be watched whether marriage has kept this fire still fuelled! Vikas Hotwani
Ajay Devgan's U, Me Aur Hum Music launched on Valentine's Day Eve!! By MovieTalkies.com, 15 February 2008
After captivating the minds of audiences with teasers across channels, the music of Ajay Devgan's U, Me Aur Hum was launched recently on the eve of the romantic day of Valentine's at an exciting bash held at The Club, Andheri amidst a hot of stars and the cast and crew!!
Starting off the function was the witty Sumeet Raghvan, also starring in the film who invited the musical team on stage consisting of music director Vishal Bharadwaj, lyricist Munna Dhiman and the stars of the film: Ajay Devgan, Kajol- who spoke at length about the music and their hopes and expectations on the film, other cast members like Isha Sharvani, Karan Khanna and also Designer Anna Singh, Choreographer Ganesh Acharya and co-producer Kumar Mangat also joined them on stage
The event was livened up by the presence of Kajol's mother and illustrious actress Tanujaa and Ajay Devgan's father Veeru Devgan.
Also present to lend their support to the team were Dir Rohit Shetty, Rajkumar Santoshi, Kajol's sister Tanishaa, Vatshal Seth, Anees Bazmee, Mukesh Tiwari.
The melodious song's trailer was played before the audience and the entire team was host to a lively music launch which followed...and captivated everyone as the music could not have been launched on a better day that the day of love, personifying the film's romantic premise.
After the stupendous musical success of Omkara, music director 'Vishal Bharadwaj' is back with a heartfelt, moving, soulful and melodious compilation for U, Me Aur Hum, with lyrics by Munna Dhiman.
The album begins with "Jee Le", a song that is already creating waves as part of the film's trailer all across news and music channels. Produced by Ajay Devgan under his banner Devgan Films, this emotional love story stars Ajay Devgan and Kajol in the lead along with Divya Dutta, Sumeet Raghvan, Karan Khanna and Isha Sharvani.
Written by Robin Bhatt, Sutanu Gupta and Akarsh Khurana, the film has dialogues by Ashwani Dheer, Cinematography by Aseem Bajaj and is co-produced by Kumar Mangat.
U, Me Aur Hum is set for a release this April 11, and with a spectacular music launch like this, this film is definitely one of the most exciting films to release in 2008!
One rarely hears of disagreements between powerhouse couple Kajol and Ajay Devgan. However it now seems like trouble is brewing in the Devgan household whose love blossomed while shooting for a couple of films together.
The fiery Kajol is reportedly offended with hubby Ajay for discussing her personal messages with outsiders.
Kajol-Ajay is always considered to be an idle pair as very little can be heard about any mis-understanding between them. But recently, problems started brewing between this happily married couple. Report is that Kajol is miffed with Ajay because he had discussed some of their personal matter with an outsider.
Ajay talked with director and a good friend of his Kumar Mangat regarding the SMS that Kajol had sent to Shahrukh. Rajkumar Hirani had approached both Kajol and Shahrukh to act in his film and regarding that issue she had sent a message to SRK. When Kajol came to know that the message licked in the outer world, she turned furious.
On being asked, Ajay said that it was just a misunderstanding and it was not a major issue. He clarified everything to her and now the whole thing has been sorted out. Kumar Mangat too intervened on the issue and explained everything to her. Kajol’s anger has now cooled down and she is feeling fine. Now, it’s all well between Kajol and Ajay and again they started leading a blissful life.
Ajay Devgan and Kajol on a cruise with 'U Me Aur Hum' Posted on 19 February 2008 (EST) Ajay Devgan, we are sure, would like to put the year 2007 behind him. His performances lacked luster and his choice of films (Cash, RGV Ki Aag) absolutely inexplicable!
Ajay Devgan and Kajol at the music launch of U, Me Aur Hum. Photo Credit: Sawf News 19 February 2008 (Sawf News) - Ajay Devgan, we are sure, would like to put the year 2007 behind him. His performances lacked luster and his choice of films (Cash, RGV Ki Aag) absolutely inexplicable!
So far, Devgan's fortunes haven't changed this year. Both Sunday and Halla Bol have tanked at the box office, the latter despite being an out and right Devgan film.
It has been some time since we saw a memorable performance from Devgan. Either an intense performance like the one in Company (2002), Gangaajal (2003) or Omkara (2006), or a restrained romantic performance like the one in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) or Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha (1998).
We are sure Devgan is hoping his luck will change with the release of U Me Aur Hum on April 11. He not only plays lead with his wife Kajol in the film but also makes his official debut as a director.
The film is an unconventional love story, but then you wouldn't expect something conventional from Devgan!
Instead of starting with a courtship and ending with a marriage, the film spans 25 years of the couple's relationship, straddling courtship, marriage and the long journey that follows.
If you go to the site for U Me Aur Hum it is immediately evident that Devgan is making the film straight from his heart. Indeed, it made us wonder if the film is his tribute to his beautiful and charming wife.
Musical score for the film, which was extensively shot on a cruise liner, has been composed by Vishal Bhardwaj, a friend of Devgan.
Bhardwaj has also sung the title track for the film.
"When I sang the track to Ajay, he had tears rolling down his cheeks. I didn't know this spontaneously emotional side of Ajay. It's never happened before that someone has started crying after listening to the song. It's a compliment to me," Bhardwaj told Mid Day.
If Ajay's emotional investment in the film is not evident from his tears take a look at Devgan's blog. He posted the synopsis of the film in the forums there in December and invited his fans to tell him what they think of it!
So will a passionately told love story translate into good box office returns?
Ajay and Kajol together command a huge fan base. That and some aggressive promotion will make it easy for the film to recover its cost. But it could do a lot more.
However, despite his past success with them, we do not believe romantic roles are Devgan's forte. But then sticking to his forte is also not his forte! http://news.sawf.org/Bollywood/48249.aspx
Ajay Devgan breaks down Author: Upala KBR Date: 19 Feb 2008 Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj was shocked by the actor’s emotional outburst when he sang for him
Yeh Khushi Ke Aansoo Hai! Ajay Devgan in U, Me Aur Hum Tough men have been known to cry. Even so, filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj was shocked when Ajay Devgan broke down while listening to U, Me Aur Hum’s title track.
Roya re
The normally taciturn Ajay admits he broke into tears on hearing the title track of U, Me Aur Hum composed and sung by Vishal Bhardwaj. “When I heard the lyrics I had tears in my eyes. The song expresses all the emotions about the film — specially romance and the way I feel about it. It’s written by this lyricist from Punjab called Munna.”
Vishal Bhardwaj recalls, “When I sang the track to Ajay, he had tears rolling down his cheeks. I didn’t know this spontaneously emotional side of Ajay. It’s never happened before that someone has started crying after listening to the song. It’s a compliment to me.”
Last-minute addition
Vishal was not supposed to sing the song but Ajay and Kajol asked him to sing it and retained it in the album. “Initially, the track was to be sung by Shreya Ghoshal and a male singer. But Shreya sang it so beautifully that we decided to keep it as a solo. Then one day, I asked Ajay to hear the unplugged version, which I had recorded in my voice as an alternate. I played it to him and he said, ‘I have to keep it in the film and the album!’ ”
Getting choosy
Vishal doesn’t like to compose music for too many directors but Ajay was an exception. Vishal says, “With him, it’s a personal and professional relationship. It’s fun working with him and he gave me complete freedom. I am scared to work with outside directors as it becomes painful. Anyway, I don’t need to compose to run my kitchen any more. I am selective about music composing as it takes up a lot of time and I like to save my energy for my films.” http://www.mid-day.com/web/guest/enterta...XT_5_groupId=14