Can social TV pay?

It was billed as a television blockbuster, with a Bollywood superstar positioned as India’s Oprah Winfrey in a heart-tugging chat show, with matching promotions. Satyamev Jayate’s debut episode, at 11 am on Sunday, May 6, hosted by Aamir Khan, was simulcast across nine channels, including Doordarshan, with language subtitles for Star’s regional channels.

On a first look at viewership response, there was a good amount of confusion since the show bucked the TAM television rating (TVR) norm because of its simulcasting, making it very difficult to judge performance. TVR represents the share of viewers watching that show of all viewers watching TV at a given point in time. Each channel would have seen viewership fragmentation due to the simulcasts.

Just on Star Plus, Satyamev Jayate got a TVR of 3.02% (cable and satellite homes, Hindi speaking market), which was much lower than Kaun Banega Crorepati’s season 5 opening TVR on Sony of 5.34%, Bigg Boss season 5 on Colors (4.25%), India’s Got Talent season 3 (Colors, 3.91%) and Star Plus’s Just Dance (3.68%).

On an all-India basis (cable and satellite plus DD), the first episode garnered a 4.1% TVR. The next episode on May 13 saw a dip in TVR, made up somewhat by the third episode on May 20.

But for a programme that has broken a number of norms and new ground, a performance evaluation based on just TVRs may not really give us the correct picture.

As Meenakshi Menon (Madhwani), managing partner, Spatial Access, said: “When an episode runs for an hour-and-a-half, the TVR, which involves time and reach, is bound to get depressed. But we are calculating the numbers at Spatial Access and find that the audience actually tuning into the show is significantly larger than for blockbuster programmes.”

Star India’s CEO, Uday Shankar, talked reach (the number of people who watch a show for more than a minute). “The show has delivered a historic reach of 33 crore people over the first three episodes. The content has galvanised the slot.

While there are some minor criticisms, viewers are almost unanimous in praising the content. “Why does Aamir need to cry on stage? The content is really good and doesn’t need that,” said Mumbai-based hair salon owner, Coleen Khan.

“I would love to be invited to be in the show’s audience – I would like to say some significant things too,” said Margaret Prasad, an informal social activist.

“I was in Delhi with potential business partners and the conversation started with Satyamev Jayate. The show has created quite a buzz,” said Marzin Shroff, CEO direct sales and senior VP marketing, Eureka Forbes, a key show sponsor which has pumped in over R 12 crore into the sponsorship. It saw a match in its brand intent of purity with that of the show’s aim to discuss social issues to improve lives.

Lead sponsor Airtel is also happy. Bharat Bambawale, director global brands, Bharti Airtel, said, “Sunday morning on TV was defunct, but not any longer. We’re committed to this show’s 13 episodes. Its philosophy fits with Airtel’s – responsibility with leadership.”

For Star India, Satyamev Jayate is strategically important. “We believe that as leaders of broadcasting, we have got to be the chief innovators constantly working towards renewing TV’s social contract with society. Satyamev Jayate is one of the biggest leaps that we have taken in many years. With it, we are trying to establish a very eclectic, contemporary definition of what entertainment content can be,” said Shankar.

“The use of TV to trigger social change in a planned way is where the real success of Satyamev Jayate lies. To the cynics it would seem to be a smart ploy by a shrewd player of emotions; to the beneficiaries it would be the emergence of their long awaited benefactors,” said Ashish Mishra, head of Water and Interbrand India operations.

“Satyamev Jayate has the beginnings of becoming a movement,” said Menon.

Shankar couldn’t agree more, asserting: “Since its launch, every day we hear stories of change inspired by it at a personal and societal level.” On the other side, the Indian Medical Association is demanding an apology for defamation of all doctors in one episode.

Think it’s early days yet, as the skeptics would say? Let’s wait and watch then – there are eight more episodes to go. Source:http://www.hindustantimes.com

Aamir Khan stole the concept of my show: Rakhi Sawant

Rakhi Sawant has done it again! This time she claims that Aamir Khan's much talked about show, Satyamev Jayate, is a copy of her show, Rakhi ka Insaaf. Excerpts from the interview:

You have been saying that Satyamev Jayate is a copy of Rakhi Ka Insaaf? The show is a complete copy of Rakhi ka Insaaf. They (the production house) have stolen our concept. The format of my show was similar. There was a point when I was so disturbed after meeting the various people who came on the show with their problems, that I had to be hospitalised, since I was suffering from depression. My show was shifted to a late night slot because of its mature content, but it still registered good TRPs. On the other hand, just because Satyamev Jayate has Aamir Khan, the show is being aired in the morning slot and people are talking about it.

How do you like Aamir's show? I have nothing against Aamir. He is a great guy and I am indebted to him for life. He stood up for me at a time when there was nothing good going for me. In fact, he should be made PM of the country. Seriously, he is genuine and does intelligent work. My only issue is that if Aamir Khan decides to do a show like this, it is termed social work, but if Rakhi Sawant anchors a similar show it is termed as business and a means to garner TRPs. The courts will interfere in my show and say that 'Lets solve these issues' we don't need a show for this. Aren't these double standards? I don't have problems with the remuneration, - Aamir Khan gets Rs three crore for doing this show and I got Rs five lakh for it! Many news channels have earlier hit on these subjects but there was no fast track code set up by the government and I am no one to comment on this. There is nothing original about Aamir's show, because Rakhi ka Insaaf had already done all that. Logon ko rulaana bahot aasan hai, but to take corrective action and

bring about a change in society is difficult! Such shows only play with people's emotions. When Aamir does a show like this, he is applauded and when I do a show like this, they say item girl kya insaaf dilayegi? Having said that, I want my show to be brought back with a sequel.

Are you aware that after this, people will call you a publicity hound? Rakhi sabko buri lagti hai kyunki main hamesha sach bolti hoon. But I am not afraid of anyone, because at the end of the day, truth finally comes out. My plea to the masses and authorities is only about creating objections and issues when I anchor a show like this. The industry will never cease to show double standards. Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Aamir in a film on AIDS?

Superstar Aamir Khan is likely to feature in Priyadarshan's much-awaited film based on AIDS.

"The project on AIDS is on, but the script is not yet ready... (I had) too many schedules and things to do so couldn't finish the script. I had discussed it with Aamir earlier and that time he wanted to do the film," the director.

The 55-year-old filmmaker has been talking about this project since 2009. It has been learnt that after Priyadarshan wraps up his current project, 'Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal', he would start work on the untitled AIDS film, which will be without songs, comedy and free of commercial trappings.

"I will complete the script first and approach him (Aamir) again. If he has time he will do it," the National Award winning director said.

Earlier, filmmakers Revathy and Onir had explored this subject (AIDS) in their films 'Phir Milenge' (2004) and `My Brother Nikhil' (2005), respectively.

While 'Phir Milenge' had a star-studded cast that included Salman Khan, Shilpa Shetty and Abhishek Bachchan, 'My Brother Nikhil' featured Sanjay Suri, Juhi Chawla and Purab Kohli. Both films did not have a successful run at the box office but they received critical acclaim.

Credit: Mid-Day.com

Aamir Khan attends rickshaw puller son’s wedding

VARANASI: Perfectionist Aamir Khan kept his promise and attended rickshaw driver Nathuni's son's wedding in Varanasi on Wednesday.

Aamir especially came down to Varanasi to attend Rajeev's wedding, son of Ramlakhan Paswan aka Nathuni, an auto-rickshaw driver. When Aamir toured the country in various disguises while promoting his 2009 film, 3 Idiots, he had met Lakhan in Varanasi, and bonded with him over three days, says a member of Aamir’s entourage.

It’s been almost three years but Lakhan hadn't forgotten the bond, and he recently arrived in Mumbai with a wedding invitation for the actor.

Aamir Khan was touched by his behaviour and was trying his best to make it to the wedding.

The actor's spokesperson had said at the time, “It’s not yet confirmed but he is trying to make time for it.” And the actor did make it to the wedding!

Aamir's another landmark

"Satyamev Jayate" is Aamir Khan's first television project and the star says that the reality show will create history by becoming the first ever programme to go live simultaneously on a private channel and national broadcaster DD1.

"This is for the first time in the Indian history that a show will also be showcased simultaneously on national television channel DD1. Besides, the show will be dubbed in four southern languages - Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada. This show is being launched on a large scale," Aamir told reporters Friday here at the launch of the show's promo song.

"Satyamev Jayate" will go on air on Star Plus May 6.

"I don't understand TRPs (Television Rating Points) and GRPs (Gross Rating Points). I have no idea how to calculate it! I don't care about TRPs. It is important to reach out to the Indian audiences. If viewers want to see, they will see or else it is up to them," added the 47-year-old.

Aamir feels that TV is a very powerful medium and added: "I had to make complete use of this medium. This is a baby step towards it."

"I cannot say I understand TV completely. I was earlier scared to go ahead with the project. I can only say I have made this show with complete honesty and without compromising on anything."

The promo song of "Satyameva Jayate" is a love song.

"Earlier, we were planning to compose a national song or like one anthem. Later, I realised, why am I doing this show? I have love in my heart for my country, like each Indian who love their country. Then we went with a romantic song. We thought, it should be a love song that reflects the love for my country and relate with each Indian," he said.

Composed by Ram Sampath and written by Prasoon Joshi, the song is sung by Keerthi Sagathia.

The show has got the famous "Ramayana" and "Mahabharta" slot - Sunday 11 a.m.

"I wanted to telecast my show on Sunday morning. I want each family to watch the show and connect with it. We have watched 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabarata' and it used to come on Sunday morning. The shows created a different atmosphere. I am not scared of the saas or bahus. My thought was 'Bharat jodo abhiyaan'."

"I am not attempting to change anybody's life. I don't have the strength to change anyone's life. When I speak about change, it's about changing myself. I am not interested in changing the world. Who am I to change anyone's life? I can only connect to them emotionally and empathise."

The actor spoke about everything, except the concept of the show and said: "I can't talk much about the show."

Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao blessed with a baby boy

MUMBAI: Actor Aamir Khan and his wife Kiran Rao have been blessed with a baby boy.

The baby was born through IVF to a surrogate mother on December 1 at a private clinic in Mumbai.

"Due to medical complications, we were advised to go for IVF-Surrogacy. We are absolutely delighted. This baby is very dear to us as we've got him after a lot of difficulty. We are so happy and would like to thank all our well wishers." said Aamir Khan.

Aamir Khan produced a successful Delhi Belly this year, directed by Abhinay Deo, starring Imran Khan, Kunaal Roy Kapur, Vir Das, Poorna Jagannathan and Shenaz Treasurywala. Coming up next is Reema Kagti's suspense thriller.

Aamir Khan appointed UNICEF Ambassador

Actor Aamir Khan has become a UNICEF India Ambassador.

The Dhoom 3 star will support the organisation's work in promoting children's rights and nutrition, as half of all children in India are malnourished.

Khan said: "I am honoured to formalise my association with UNICEF as their Ambassador to help raise awareness on the issue of malnutrition amongst children.

"I realise there is a lot to be done and I hope that by lending my voice I can make a difference to the lives of children and hereby to the future of our country. Partnering with UNICEF will enable me to advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and marginalised children in India."

UNICEF representative Karin Hulshof welcomed the appointment.

"We know Aamir Khan as a leading star of Indian cinema," she said. "He is also a compelling advocate, with an enormous drive and commitment, to transform and improve the situation of children in the country."

Aamir Khan to make TV debut with his 'most ambitious project'

Aamir Khan is preparing to make his TV debut in what he has described as his "most ambitious project" yet.

The show will bring the real-life stories of people across India to the small screen, and will be broadcast in eight different languages.

"This show is my most ambitious project," Khan told NDTV. "This began as a dream some three-four years ago. Uday [Shankar, CEO of Star India] coaxed me with the idea that I should think of dominating television now. That is how the spark ignited. After that meeting I actually started thinking about it passionately.

"I have been offered game shows before, but I didn't find them very exciting... Not that they were not good but personally doing the same thing every day didn't excite me much. So that is how I started to think and brainstorm for an innovative concept.

"Moreover, I have realised in all these years that TV is a very strong and powerful medium and I should make use of this platform to reach [a] larger audience."

Shankar said: "It's a pan-India show. The show has been woven around Aamir, it is his vision. He did not want language to act as a barrier, he said 'I want all your regional channels for this show'."

'Dhoom 3' release delayed till 2013

MUMBAI: Superstar Aamir Khan has delayed the release of his next movie Dhoom 3, which was earlier scheduled to hit the screens during Christmas in 2012. Now, the much-anticipated Bollywood film will grace the theatres in 2013.

According to reports, Salman requested Amir to delay the release so that it should not clash with Salman's Dabangg 2.

Dhoom 3 is being produced under the banner Yash Raj Films. Aamir Khan is playing a negative character, while Abhishek Bachchan and Uday Chopra will reprise their roles like Jai and Ali. Katrina Kaif will star opposite Aamir Khan.

Earlier, Salman had also honored Aamir’s request to postpone his film 'Ek Tha Tiger' so that it does not clash with Amir's 'Dhuan'.

3 Idiots' to team up again

A film's success depends more on off-screen liaisons than on-screen jodis these days.

No wonder, then, after the stupendous success of 3 Idiots, Aamir Khan had expressed a desire to work with director Rajkumar Hirani and producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra again.

Two years later, his wish apparently has come true.

A source tells us that Aamir has agreed to do Hirani's next movie, to be produced by Chopra.

"It's basically a slice-of-life story told in a satirical manner with the kind of comedy that Raju is known for, " reveals our informer, adding that Sharman Joshi has also been confirmed for it.

Sharman Joshi, too

Along with Aamir, Sharman too has endeared himself to Chopra's production house. Besides, he's also currently working on Ferrari Ki Sawari, helmed by Hirani's erstwhile assistant Rajesh Mapuskar.

"And not to forget, Aamir and Sharman are quite good friends having worked together in Rang De Basanti and 3 Idiots, " adds the source.

Interestingly, our source dismisses rumours of Hirani first working on the third edition of the successful Munnabhai franchise.

"Raju's the kind of director who won't begin his movie until he's sure of the script.

And since another script fell into place, they decided to go ahead with this for now. In the meanwhile, writing of the third Munnabhai film will continue till they lock the script, " adds the source.

However, Hirani's next film with Aamir and Sharman isn't likely to start so soon. Our source tells us that the director is planning to start this film in the latter half of 2012.

"Just like Sharman is busy, Aamir too is preoccupied with the Reema Kagti-directed suspense thriller. Besides, he's going to start working for Dhoom 3 around January next year.

Raju, too, is busy overseeing the direction of Ferrari... When all three are done with their prior commitments, they will start working on their next venture together, " the source adds.

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

Top-Grossing Bollywood Actors

Aamir Khan, Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn are the only Bollywood actors whose films have grossed 100 crores (around £14m) at the box office.

3 Idiots, Ghajini, Ready, Dabangg and Golmaal 3 are the only films to have made 100 crores in the domestic market. Aamir Khan's 3 Idiots is the highest grossing Bollywood film of all time. Salman Khan's Dabangg and Ready follow in second and third place.

Devgn is next with Golmaal 3, while his recent release - the critically acclaimed Singham - continues to draw record-breaking audiences.

Trade analyst Vajir Singh told The Times of India: "Going by the extraordinary opening at single screens and a good opening at multiplexes, Singham will cross the 100 crore mark soon."

Speaking of his films' successes, Devgn said: "It feels great to have two films on the list of the biggest earners in Hindi cinema... that too through Golmaal 3 and Singham! It's unreal - much more than what we had hoped for. The flip side is that with great success comes a lot of pressure about your next film.

"Also, the success quotient changes every Friday. Today, it is my day; tomorrow it will be somebody else's. After 20 years of success and failure, it doesn't change or excite me much. Now I just try and make the audience happy. I am sure Salman and Aamir feel the same way."

Aamir, whose hit film 3 Idiots broke all opening day records, commented: "While I am very happy with the monetary success of both films, I have to confess that merely monetary success does not excite me.

"I think that films like Taare Zameen Par, Lagaan, Rang De Basanti and Dhobi Ghat enrich our emotions and have the ability to create a very positive, inspirational, happy and moving impact on us. What excites me is to be part of this life-changing experience for people and society. I thank my directors and writers for that."

Dabangg producer Arbaaz Khan said: "Salman enjoyed doing the films and the right music, action, characters and script worked for the films.

"But the business module is changing today along with a growing number of prints, theatres and multiplexes. What is a benchmark today will change with the economics of the business."

Aamir turns into item boy for Delhi Belly

MUMBAI: Producer-actor Aamir Khan, who has performed an item number titled I Hate You for his latest home production Delhi Belly, says it's time for "item boys" to rock Bollywood.

I want to become the number one item boy," Aamir told reporters here after unveiling the first look of the song on Wednesday.

Aamir, who will be seen in a retro look, aping veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty as 'Disco Fighter' in the much anticipated item number, says he is waiting for Salman's comments on it.

The 46-year-old actor will be seen in a new look that of a pass 80s disco dancer for the song.

Aamir said he had approached almost every actress and even item girl Rakhi Sawant but all of them avoided his calls and hence he decided to turn "item boy".

The film produced by Aamir Khan Productions stars Imran Khan, Vir Das, Kunal Roy Kapur, Poorna Jagannathan and Shenaz Treasurywala.

Directed by Abhinay Deo, Delhi Belly an adult comedy, releases on July 1.

Aamir Khan on lookout for item girl

Aamir Khan has revealed that he is on the lookout for a "fresh face" for an item number in the upcoming Delhi Belly.

The film, produced by the actor, depicts the adventures of three bachelors in the Indian capital.

He told Mumbai Mirror: "I'm looking out for someone. We have got quite a nice number, now we are thinking whom we can cast.

"It could be an established actor or a fresh face. If you have any suggestions, please let us know."

However, he added jokingly that he would be prepared to dance himself if they failed to find the right person for the role.

Khan said this week that he thought the film will hail a comeback for his nephew Imran Khan, who tackles the lead role in the ground-breaking Hinglish film.

Aamir Khan to host an Oprah-type talk show

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has been roped in to host a talk show, reveals Indian daily Mid-Day.

Yesteryear's quiz master Siddharth Basu's company Big Synergy is touted to produce it.

The daily says, Basu approached Khan a while ago with a show on the lines of The Oprah Winfrey Show.

The show aims to address common man's problems. The daily says, Khan warmed to 'this concept, as it deals with issues pertaining to the ordinary citizens of the country'.

One person will be picked per episode and the show host will pick and talk about any issue that the person is dealing with. The show will also include a documentary on the person's life and it will be shot in a packed studio, the paper said.

Khan is not tagged as Bollywood's Mr. Perfectionist for nothing. He not only plans to be involved in the making of each documentary but would like to meet and know his main guest before the shoot commences, the paper revealed.

Aamir Khan supports Anna Hazare's crusade against corruption

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has said the crusade against Corruption by eminent social activist Anna Hazare was extremely important and extended support to him, saying he is an inspiration to the youth of the country.

"Like the country supported the Indian cricket team in their struggle to win the World Cup, I hope and pray that your struggle, which is definitely more important and affects every one of us, will get even greater support", Aamir said in a letter to Hazare.

"I am among the thousands who are fully supportive of your effort", he wrote. Hazare has undertaken a fast unto death, demanding a joint committee to draft a strong Jan Lokpal bill.

Acclaimed director Shekhar Kapur said, "the test of the will of the nation is whether all the attention now goes to IPL or stays with Anna Hazare's patriotic movement" Actors Pyianka Chopra, Vivek Oberoi and Anupam Kher also pledged their support for Hazare's campaign.

Meanwhile, in Hazare's village Ralegaon Siddhi, a least 600 school children participated in a rally against corruption.

The village also observed a day-long shutdown in support of his cause.

The campaign for the Jan Lokpal bill saw strong support from corporate executives, students, traders and even government employees, who gathered here at the Azad maidan. They said the Bill was their only hope for a better and cleam government.

Aamir Khan is 'Maharashtrian of the Year'

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and Maharashtra Home Minister R.R.Patil received the 'Maharashtrian of the Year' award, instituted by leading Marathi daily Lokmat, at a function held recently.

While Aamir received the award in the entertainment category, Patil received it in the politics category. Others who received the award on the occasion include Kalpana JoshiSanjay Gaikwad (industry), Bhagwan Rampure (arts), Kavita Raut (sports), Dr Ravindra Kolhe and Smita Kolhe (social service). (science and technology),

Speaking on the occasion, Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan said, “Democratic systems and free media are true strengths of the state”. Delivering the welcome speech, Lokmat director and Rajya Sabha MP, Vijay Darda, voiced concerns about malnutrition, slow industrial progress rate, and farmers’ suicide among other aspects plaguing society.

The event also marked a social cause where Sanjeev Gupta of the leading outdoor branding agency Global Advertisers donated a sum for an adivasi (tribal) community clinic, earning applause from the audience.

The jury members included former High Court judge B.N.Deshmukh, Dr Raghunath Mashelkar, Anna Hazare, Lila Poonawala, Gulzar, Rajdeep Sardesai and Dilip Vengsarkar.

The event was also graced by Union Sports Minister Ajay Maken, state education minister Rajendra Darda, actors Jackie Shroff and Jeetendra and industrialist Gautam Singhania.

Rani excited about her reunion with Aamir & Kareena

Life has come full circle for Bollywood's feisty actress, Rani Mujherjee'>Rani Mukherjee with her upcoming film (tentatively titled THE ACT OF MURDER) being directed by Reema Kagti. The film is being touted as reunion of sorts as it not only marks the return of Rani with Aamir Khan, with whom she gave her first major hit in the form of GHULAM but also the coming together of Rani and Kareena, who last worked in MUJHSE DOSTI KAROGE (2002).

Rani gets nostalgic about her association with the superstar. 'It's always wonderful working with Aamir because I get to learn a lot from him. Aamir is one person who is a very close friend, with whom I began my career. I am looking forward to this film. Kareena and me both learn from him,' says Rani.

With respect to Kareena she says, 'It's great working with her! Kareena and I worked in the film MUJHSE DOSTI KAROGE about eight years back. And now we are back together so it is very exciting. We met recently and are really happy about the fact that we both are in the film'

It's quite surprising to know that the three highly talented actors of Bollywood Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor, who are known as powerhouse performers, who have acting in their blood, from whom people take their acting lessons, are attending acting workshops for their forthcoming film. 'We actors also keep studying. We have to keep going to our own finishing schools to refine our skills,' says the 32-year-old actor candidly.

When probed about the film title (THE ACT OF MURDER) Rani in her trademark style answered, 'Really is that the one? I am sorry I was not aware of the title.' 'I don't think this is true,' quips Rani.

With the merging of three stalwarts, Rani, Kareena and Aamir surely expect fireworks at the Box-office when the film releases!

Aamir'll sing again in 'Dhoom 3' after Gulam

After singing 'Aati Kya Khandala' for Jatin-Lalit in Ghulam, Bollywood's Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan is all set to lend his voice to Dhoom 3 theme song. For this composer Pritam Chakraborty has been clearly instructed by producer Aditya Chopra to compose a tune, which will match Aamir's character in the movie. According to reports Pritam has also been asked to complete all his other assignments by June this year, so he can give all his attention to 'Dhoom 3'.

Aamir Khan to star in Dhoom 3

In an announcement likely to excite curiosity of cinegoers across the country, Yashraj Films today announced that Superstar Aamir Khan would star in 'Dhoom 3', the third in the 'Dhoom' Franchise which will go on floors shortly.

Making the announcement, filmmaker Yash Chopra said, ''It's a great pleasure to have Aamir working with YRF once again.

It is even more special that he will be doing 'Dhoom 3. I am terribly excited with what an actor like Aamir will bring to the Dhoom franchise with his unique star power and level of performance.'' Produced by Aditya Chopra, 'Dhoom 3' will be written and directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, popularly known as Victor, who has written 'Doom' 1 and 2. Victor has also written and directed Tashan.

The film will start its shooting from this year's end and is slated for a 2012 Christmas release.

Talking about the film, which is third in series of films under YRF's 'Dhoom' franchise, Yash Chopra said, ''Adi and Victor have worked over a year to bring out, what I can now confidently say, is possibly one of the best scripts coming out of YRF and I am sure that with Aamir and Adi together, they will both create magic to give our audience one of the most exciting films they have ever seen.'' This is Aamir's second film with Yash Raj, having worked with the banner in Kunal Kohli's 'Fanaa'.

On working in 'Dhoom 3', Aamir said, ''It is indeed a pleasure to be working with Yashraj once again. 'Dhoom' is a great franchise, most entertaining and full of fun. Every time I hear the theme tune of the movie, it brings a swing to my step. Victor's script really won me over and I look forward to working with him, sharing screen space with Jai and Ali, and, of course, working with Yashji and Adi once again.'' Both Abhishek Bachchan and Uday Chopra will continue in their new iconic roles of Jai Dixit and Ali.

Amir Khan on Berlin film fest jury

Bollywood star Aamir Khan will bring some Indian spice to the jury at the 61st Berlin film festival next month.

The seven-person jury, headed by Italian-American actress Isabella Rossellini, is tasked with picking the winner of the coveted Golden and Silver Bear prizes in the February 10 to 20 festival in the German capital.

Australian film producer Jan Chapman, German actress Nina Hoss, Canadian film-maker Guy Maddin, British costume designer Sandy Powell and Iranian director Jafar Panahi complete the line-up.

However, Panahi's place on the jury will be left symbolically empty, as he was handed six years in jail in December and banned from making films or leaving Iran for 20 years.

"There has been worldwide protest against this verdict that violates the right to freedom of opinion and expression," said the festival in a statement.

"The Berlinale is holding a place open in the Jury for Jafar Panahi and in doing so wants to signal its support for his struggle for freedom."

The festival features a financial crisis thriller starring Kevin Spacey and Demi Moore and a French 3D animated feature, amongst others.

In all, it features 22 films in its main programme including 16 in the running for the festival's prizes.

Khan, 44, has made a name for himself as one of the most bankable Bollywood stars on and off screen, shunning the conveyor belt of song and dance-laden films for more contemporary themes and unconventional subject matter.

As a producer, he is hoping it will be third time lucky at this year's Oscars, after his latest movie was chosen as India's entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category.

Two other films he produced have previously been selected as India's official Oscar entry.

The Berlinale, one of the world's top film festivals, will open with a remake of the classic Western "True Grit" by the Oscar-winning brothers Joel and Ethan Coen.