• The Gods of Rock come alive on The History Channel


    Submitted by ITV Production on May 28, 2007

    NEW DELHI: The gods of rock are coming to shake you up. Join The History Channel this May to witness some of the greatest moments of rock in its entertaining new offering, History Rocks.With decades of multi-platinum success and sold-out tours, some of the greatest musical icons like Queen, Deep Purple, The Doors, The Who, Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Santana are featured in this one-of-its-kind series that fuses music and history together. Starting May 28, tune-in every Monday to Thursday at 10 pm onwards till June 7 for a slice of the glory that marks these legendary performers.

    An eight-part series, History Rocks brings together great concerts, rare documentaries and interviews featuring these gods of music and offers a unique glimpse into the life of these rock legends. "History Rocks gives viewers a chance to be up, close and personal with the legends of rock we love, adore and revere," said Rajesh Sheshadri, Vice President, Marketing, The History Channel.

    Be it Deep Purple or The Doors, this May relive the magic of their music and rock on with The History Channel!

    History Rocks includes the following episodes:

    Queen-Live in Budapest - Monday, 28 May - Aside from showcasing Queen‘s largest ever stadium performance, ‘Live In Budapest‘ includes montages of highlights of band‘s legendary visit and allows a unique insight into the Hungarian film making style adapted to western Rock ‘n‘ Roll.

    The Who - Live at the Isle of Wight Festival - Tuesday, 29 May - In 1970, 6,00,000 people came to the Isle of Wight Festival to attend a music festival at 2 am on August 30. The Who appeared and gave one of their most memorable performances featuring hits like Water, Magic bus, Eyesight to the blind, Heaven and hell, The acid queen, Pinball wizard, Fiddle about, We‘re not going to take it and many more classic numbers.

    Santana - Live At Montreux 2004 - Wednesday, 30 May - On 15 July 2004, Santana took to the stage in Montreux accompanied by a stunning line-up of guests to perform a concert of songs about peace and understanding that they dubbed "Hymns for Peace".

    Deep Purple - Live at Montreux - Thursday, 31 May - Deep Purple needs no introduction as they are one of the all-time great British rock bands. Their association with Montreux goes back to the early seventies, when their attempt to record their album "Machine Head" at the Montreux Casino was thwarted when it promptly burnt down, forcing them to make the album in the rooms and corridors of the Grand Hotel instead.

    The Doors: Soundstage Performances - Monday, 4 June - These performances are a truly unique compilation of three different Doors concerts at three distinct stages in their career; from their early days, a concert in Toronto in 1967, from their only European tour in 1968 and then from New York in 1969. Also included is Jim Morrison‘s only on camera interview.

    Rolling Stones - Truth & Lies - Tuesday, 5 June - They are the greatest Rock and Roll band in the world. They have inspired wild yells from musical millions and gasps of horror from the establishment. This lively episode showcases what their contemporaries, fans and critics said about the songs, the scandals, the crises and the excesses. Also features news footage and interviews from the band.

    Beatles - From Liverpool to San Francisco - Wednesday, 6 June- This one hour special witnesses the adulation and hysteria that gripped the world wherever The Beatles traveled. Through their extensive and open interviews with the world‘s media and archive footage of their journeys, the program gives an insight into what it was like for the Beatles inside the bubble of Beatlemania.

    Led Zepplin - Thursday, 7 June - The story of the top rock band that got its name when drummer Keith Moon predicted how the band would go over with audiences after hearing their demo tapes. Led Zeppelin‘s first album reached number 10 on the charts in 1969, and their popularity continued to grow with each subsequent album.

  • Masterstroke celebrates with Brand Ambassador Shah Rukh Khan at a star studded Masterstroke concert

    Submitted by ITV Production on May 26, 2007

    MUMBAI: Mumbai witnessed a gala evening at a concert organized by Masterstroke at the MMRDA grounds. Titled the Masterstroke concert, the evening saw a packed house with thousands of people jiving and grooving to the tunes of Bombay Vikings, Indian Idol finalist Prajakta Shukre and swinging with the moves of Bollywood starlet Amrita Arora. However, the highlight of the evening remained the Badshah of Bollywood, Shahrukh Khan.

    Speaking at the occasion, Shah Rukh Khan the brand ambassador of Master Stroke said, "It gives me great pleasure to be associated with a brand that has made a mark and stands among the best."

    The concert kicked off with a groovy performance by Amrita Arora, followed by a medley of songs by Prajakta Shukre. The crowd went crazy when the band Bombay Vikings took control of the stage and started belting out some of their most popular chart-topping numbers.

    The fantastic theme of the evening ‘Its cool to be hot‘ was given artistic expression in the performances of Amrita Arora, Bombay Vikings and Prajakta Shukre in a scintillating medley. Amrita‘s stunningly ‘hot‘ moves and Bombay Vikings‘s ‘cool‘ attitude made the evening a showstopper, perfectly articulating the belief that every one has both hot and cool aspects to his personality. The heady mix of Bollywood songs by Prajakta Shukre provided some unbelievable entertainment.

    Dr. Lalit Khaitan, Chairman, Mr. Raju Vaziraney, CEO, Mr Abhishek Khaitan and Mr. Asif Adil, Managing Director Diageo Radico Distilleries Pvt Ltd expressed their happiness over the fruitful relationship and the brand Masterstroke.

  • Watch Miss USA 2007 and Miss Universe 2007 only on Star World

    Submitted by ITV Production on May 25, 2007

    MUMBAI: As May comes to an end, Star World turns up the heat with two ogle-worthy specials! Tune in to Miss USA 2007 this Saturday, May 26th at 9 pm and watch American beauties sashay their way into the judges‘ hearts ad they compete for the coveted title.On Tuesday, May 29th at 6 30 am, watch the world‘s most glamorous goddesses steal the spotlight on Star World with the live telecast of Miss UNIVERSE 2007.

    MISS USA 2007

    Hosted by talk-show veteran Nancy O‘Dell, the Miss USA 2007 airs on STAR WORLD on Saturday, May 26th at 9pm.

    From the swimsuit parade to the interview section and evening-gown segment, the 51 contestants will be doing their best to exhibit poise under pressure. The leggy lovelies will parade before a panel of celebrity judges that includes talk-show host Jerry Springer, Blow Out star Jonathan Antin, E! News co-host Giuliana De Pandi, NFL star Vince Young, and former Miss Teen USA Vanessa Minnillo.

    Held at LA‘s famed Kodak Theatre, this year‘s pageant also marks the end of the scandal-scarred reign of Tara Conner. In the last 12 months, Miss USA 2006 has been a tabloid target after it was revealed that she had spent more time partying than performing good deeds and was admitted to a rehab clinic. Once she passes her tarnished crown to her successor, Miss USA 2007 will then step onto the international stage to compete in Miss Universe 2007.

    On May 26th at 9pm, share the excitement and behind-the-scenes drama as 51 dazzling divas take to the stage in the hope of being named Miss USA 2007!

    Miss USA 2007 premieres Sat (May 26) at 9pm.
    Encore Telecasts air Sun at 1.30am & 7am and Mon at 1pm

    MISS UNIVERSE 2007 Live on STAR WORLD

    On Tuesday, May 29th at 6 30 am, the world‘s most glamorous goddesses steal the spotlight on Star World with the live telecast of Miss Universe 2007.

    Held at the National Auditorium in Mexico, over 70 beauty queens from around the globe will parade their assets and display their charms before a panel of celebrity judges. Viewed in 170 countries, the two-hour spectacular is recognized as the world‘s most prestigious beauty pageant. Last year, millions of viewers saw Puerto Rican beauty Zuleyka Rivera crowned Miss Universe 2006.

    While the contestants represent the epitome of beauty and grace, they also reflect the missions and goals of women worldwide. This year‘s winner, for example, will travel the world to raise awareness of HIV and AIDS.

    Tune in on Tuesday, May 29th at 6 30 am for the live telecast of the world‘s most anticipated beauty pageant, Miss Universe 2007.

    Miss Universe 2007 premieres Tuesday (May 29th) at 6 30 am (Live), 8pm (Primetime Encore Telecast)
    Encore Telecasts air Wed at 1.30am & Sun at 3 pm

    So don‘t forget to tune in to the most prestigious beauty pageants only on Star World!


  • The Ultimate AMERICAN IDOL Showdown First and Live on STAR WORLD on 24th May at 8 p.m.

    Submitted by ITV Production on May 23, 2007

    MUMBAI:Two big talents. Two potential superstars. Who will take home the one coveted title? Be among the first to find out when STAR WORLD brings you the American Idol Season Finale LIVE on 24th May at 8 p.m.

    Held at LA‘s famed Kodak Theater, the two-hour finale is expected to produce one of the closest results in Idol‘s six-year history. In one corner is Jordin Sparks, the teen chanteuse who outlasted early frontrunners like Melinda Doolittle and Lakisha Jones. As she prepares to belt it out one last time on the Idol stage, will the voters continue to stick with her? Or will Blake Lewis, the show‘s hippest-ever finalist, beatbox his way into Idol glory?

    While Sparks and Lewis go head to head, fans can also look forward to seeing this year‘s top 12 reunite for the last time. From the controversial Sanjaya Malakar, to big-voiced diva Lakisha Jones and fan favorite Melinda Doolittle, this season will be remembered for its eclectic mix of colourful contestants.

    As well as crowning pop‘s new idol, Thursday‘s finale will also reveal the winner of the American Idol Songwriting Competition. For the first time ever, aspiring songwriters from around the nation were invited to submit a song that captured the spirit of American Idol. Once viewers have voted for their favourite tune, the winning song will be performed by this year‘s Idol champ.

    Who will strike a chord with viewers? Which finalist - Blake Lewis or Jordin Sparks - will be in tune with American tastes? On 24th May at 8 pm, be among the first to find out who is pop‘s newest superstar as STAR WORLD brings you the LIVE telecast of the American Idol Season Finale!

  • Tune in to an exciting episode this week, as Karan chats up with Ekta Kapoor and her favorite men on television

    Submitted by ITV Production on May 23, 2007

    MUMBAI: She?s a one-woman army. She?s single handedly revolutionized Indian television? They don?t call her the queen of prime time for absolutely nothing! She?s combated cricket, game shows, reality shows and always emerged victorious! Karan?s first guest this week is none other than Ekta Kapoor! Joining her are her favorite men and television?s blue-eyed boys? Ram Kapoor, Ronit Roy and Hiten Tejwani! Watch the people who have captured the hearts of millions of people in the country only on Koffee with Karan, this Sunday, May 27th at 9. 30 p.m. on Star One and at 9 p.m. on Star World.

    In this very exciting episode, watch Ekta talk about the winning streak which she has always possessed since she was a child- from a desire to win dance competitions at birthday parties to being numero uno in her field. She discusses the twists and turns, generation leaps, murders and comebacks, which are created in shows to combat competition! She also clears all speculation on her relationship with Smriti Irani and Rajeev Khandelwal! On the other hand, her favorite men- Ram, Ronit and Hiten talk about the warm bond they share with Ekta and how they deal with her temperamental nature. They admit on the show that they owe their success to her, along with hundreds of other actors who are now millionaires thanks to her! Also, watch an entertaining vox-pop in which the aam junta and members of the Balaji fraternity choose the perfect husband for Ekta. Who is the favorite contender? Is it Jai Walia, Rahul Bajaj, Karan Virani, Mihir Virani or Sujal? Or even better? is it Karan Johar!

    That?s not all, the tables turn this time round! In the much awaited rapid fire round, Karan hands the reigns to Ram, Ronit and Hiten who quiz Ekta on her likes and dislikes! Which Bollywood couple would win in Nach Baliye and who would lose? Who is the ?Amitabh Bachchan? of television? Who is the Ekta Kapoor of Bollywood? Who is the most over-rated actor on television? The one actor, whom she discovered, she is proud of? What is Ba?s real age? Is it 100+, 200+ or more than that? Does Ekta succeed in winning the hamper? Watch out in this week?s exciting episode of Koffee with Karan.

    Excerpts from the interview:

    Karan: Look at you? looking all glamorous! I look at you like this and get the visual of the same little podgy girl. Look at me talking, I was double your size then, dancing in Abhishek?s birthday party in a silver dress?you looked like a silver ball? like a silver disco ball.

    Ekta: (Laughing) Disco Rani!

    Karan: And you were doing this little disco step and I remember you crying because you came third!

    Ekta: I came third and they gave the first prize to Adi and I wanted that prize.

    Karan: Now, it?s a lesser-known fact that Aditya Chopra won over Hrithik Roshan in the dance competition. Hrithik came second and Aditya Chopra came first and you came third and I remember you bawling and then Adi very magnanimously gave you the crown and made you get the first prize!

    Ekta: I think it was in his genes to be extremely gentlemanly.

    Karan: Now when I look at you I think life has taken a complete circle with him doing so well and you doing so well!

    Ekta: I hope in the future also he gives me something generously. (Laughs)

    Karan: But really today you are the queen of prime time. Two years ago I told you the same thing. Two years later you?re even beyond that. How does it feel to be the numero uno in your field?

    Ekta: You know what? It has been the same! There was a sense of complacency, which had come into the medium a couple of months ago when there was no competition and we were doing well. But now suddenly with Zee coming up, it?s becoming tougher to be on the top. But the fun, the aggression, and the competition that TV has now?it?s only going to get better and more fun!

    Karan: Ram, she has had a problem with you earlier during your bout with Ghar Ek Mandir

    Ram: Yeah! I have to say I was a very different person at that point of time. She gives all the credit to my wife for changing me and I have to agree with her because my first innings in television was more of discovery. I was deciding where I want to be.

    Ekta: And you know what happened? I didn?t know at that point of time that Gautami and he were seeing each other and I bitched him out to Gautami only!

    Karan: Ronit? you are the blue eyed boy of Balaji. You are practically in every show. With grey hair in some, without grey hair in the other! You play all kinds of ages, stages, rages, everything?How is it working with Ekta?

    Ronit: You know there was a point in my life where there was a lot of alcoholism. One evening, this friend of mine called Raj, who was looking after my work, he came back home after meeting a producer. I asked him, ?What did he say?? so he went and he fixed me a drink and said, ?Let it go, we just had a chat!? so I said, ?No, tell me! I am a big boy, I can handle it!? He said, ?You know Ronit? You are done! He said why should I take Ronit when I can cast any junior artist with more talent and less money!? and I thought, ?Yeah man! Maybe I am done!? and then Ekta came along and Balaji came along and I said to myself, ?No! I?m not!? At that point of time, Karan, I really did not know which way to go so that?s why I always thank her. She has brought a dead actor, a dead human being? she has resurrected me!

    Karan: Hiten, you are a young boy today. You are in your early 30?s but you are playing what? a 50 year old man in one show and who knows with another leap you will be 80 soon but you have the love and the regard of millions of people at such a young age. How does it feel?

    Hiten: It feels very nice. I never thought of it! I always wanted to be somebody somewhere and suddenly one day everything happened and it?s all her (Ekta) doing!

    So, don?t forget to tune in as Karan chats with Ekta Kapoor with her favorite leading men- Ram Kapoor, Ronit Roy and Hiten Tejwani on Koffee with Karan this Sunday, May 27th at 9 30 p.m. on Star One and at 9 p.m. on Star World

  • Bharti Airtel makes it to elite list: Wireless Intelligence

    Submitted by ITV Production on May 23, 2007

    MUMBAI: Bharti Airtel today announced that it has crossed the 40 million-mobile customer milestone.According to the Wireless Intelligence, it has become the first Indian mobile service provider and the tenth in the world to join a global list of telecom operators with more than 40 million mobile customers from a single country. This figure was reached in 12 years, making it one of the fastest companies to make it to the list.

    Bharti Airtel president for mobile services Sanjay Kapoor said, "This is indeed a remarkable achievement not only for us at Airtel, but also for the country as it clearly underscores the coming of age of Indian companies in the international telecom arena."

    The company‘s overall wireless market share increased to over 23.2 percent as of April 2007 from 20.4 percent as reported in FY 06. The company plans to aggressively roll out more than 30,000 cell sites in FY08 to increase its population coverage to 70 percent.

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