“Bombay Angel” is a triumph of layering. You start off thinking that you’re just getting some good old house music. Initially the foot is tapping, but the sound quickly escalates to a full on raging party. As the drum machines chime in quietly, the deep vocals fake you out into wondering if Young Archie is going dubstep. The twittering Bombay sample is an exciting, unexpected surprise that doesn’t box the song into the “Desi Remix” category. Smartly, Archie made the decision not to venture into the lyrical portions of the iconic Rahman track giving it more of an international vibe. The last layer establishes that Young Archie is a hardcore dance DJ. The added thumping beat is sure get fists pumping and drinks spilling across the dance floor.

The track takes a lot of known sounds and mashes them together, creating something very original and fresh. For that, we thank Young Archie.

The video for “Bombay Angel” is as refreshing as the sound. Archie keeps his identity on the DL. He’s not an artist obsessed with showing himself in videos or detracting from the music with flashy visuals. Instead of massive club scenes, “Bombay Angel” follows a guy on and possibly shows where Archie gets his inspiration. We see a lot of street performers and shots of a record store. The video is humble and artistic and can be called anti-pretentious.

Whether you are in L.A., New York, Dubai, London, Mumbai or Amsterdam; this track will get people on the dance floor and keep them there.

We are! Tired of the bad ones at least. Luckily, our super smart community continues to over achieve and come up with videos that are hilarious!

So that you don’t have to waste your time on YouTube weeding through the lame attempts at Johnny Lever-ness (we know that you don’t have that much time between studying for your MCATS and receiving your Nobel Peace Prize), we put together a list of our favorite videos and their best one liners!

Happy husna!
He’s F%^&$(* Hideous…But He Got Into Med School
Ooh Desi girls! How disillusioned you are with life! Nerdy b*^%&#@ take a beating here, but when watched in succession, it kind of seems warranted.

Does The Color Of Your Turban Represent Your Mood?
Jus Reign does it again! We may like him as a stoner white boy almost as much as when he acts like an uncle.

Can You Pin Me?
If you know anyone hardcore on the Desi dance circuit, you’ve heard these phrases. The shout out to scene celebs is hilarious if you know the community. If not, maybe you should check out the competition this video was made for.

Jay Sean Is Not Indian!
Gotta love an Indo-phile. That’s it.

Tutti Kha…Tutti Khaani Hai? HAAAIN?
There’s nothing like the unconditional love — and death stare — of a Punjabi mother. Move over Kiron Kher, this girl has the acting DOWN!

How Much Nair Do You Have?
Ignorance is bliss. No one wants to know about Desi girls and their Nair needs.

Give Me Back My Virginity! I Want A Refund!
Why does this guy think that Desi girls sound like Miss Piggy? So that’s why he’s single and bitter…

But, not only is the frenemies turned bed-mates a story that audiences love, the travels that Ali Zafar and Aditi Rao Hydari embark on represent the global South Asian. Upwardly mobile globe trotters are a reality for the Diaspora, no?

Aside from a new (hopefully) spin on a well recognized and time tested plot, London Paris New York has an it factor that even the Khans and Mukherjees couldn’t bring. This film’s actors can also sing.

Lead actor, Ali Zafar (Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Tere Bin Laden) is a former Pakistani pop star who found he had some chops on screen as well. Not only has he lent his vocals to the movie with co-actor, Aditi Rao Hydari (Rockstar), Zafar was also the music director for the film.  Impressive, huh?

We should probably wait to hear the entire soundrack before getting too excited and claiming the cast should play Iqbal Theba‘s children on Glee, but based on the trailer, they could have a shot.

Photo Credit: Getty

When we found out Oprah was going to be in India, we weren’t sure what to expect. Was she going to spend her time hobnobbing with the glitterati, spend time in the Slumdog parts of town, or just get some touristy photographs clicked at the usual venues?

It turns out that, on the trip for her new show, The Next Chapter Oprah did all of everything. Trips to the Taj Mahal, parties with the Bachchans decked out in Sabyasachi saris, visited widow ashrams and had tea with regular folks. In addition, Oprah sat for one of her most in depth interviews. But this time she was put in the hot seat and was asked all the questions!

She talked about her philanthropic work, success, The OWN Network and her Indian experience. It was a little disturbing to hear that Oprah’s main image of India was of a camel. In hopes of visiting the country, she placed a photo of the animal on her vision board. Stereotypical or not, she made her dream of visiting India come true. Before she landed in the country where, she says, driving is like being in a video game, her view may have been narrow, but with friend, Deepak Chopra by her side, she seems to have discovered a lot of what India has to offer.

So, will she be back? There’s a good chance. Oprah revealed that she has found so many stories that she wants to share from India. She will have to come back in order to tell them all.

Check out Oprah’s interview with NDTV’s Barkha Dutt where she says: “My life has been a Taj Mahal.” Jai hOprah!

Photo Credit: Raine Music Management

In case the magnum opus film and prematurely leaked song have slipped your mind, SRK outsourced this anthem to US based R&B star, Akon. The lyrics of “Chammak Chalo,” though seductive and playful, lost some impact because of the cacophonous percussion and up beat tempo. SRK’s robotic bharatnatyam dancing didn’t help the seductive cause either. In the hands of Vishal-Shekhar the track took on a club/dance vibe that was appreciated — although now slightly over played.

Arjun reignites the song’s romantic lyrical vibe by slowing down the tempo, adding a guitar, more melody and dropping English lines in his effervescent but powerful baritone. The chorus lines are intact but rearranged, giving the track a raw, almost acoustic extempo, live quality. He totally replaces Akon’s brash, forceful delivery with slick almost Boys2Men like smoothness.

What Arjun delivers is the adult version of Ra.One‘s adolescent track. One is full of pumping hormones, the other — baby making music.

Let us know which one you like best!

Photo Credit: Getty

We know that SRK likes to do his own stunts, but the dishoom-dishoom-ness got a little too real. Why would the superstar get involved in a situation that could damage the face that has stolen the hearts of a billion people? He must have been really ticked off.

We don’t know much about Shirish, other than the fact that he’s an editor turned husband of Farah Khan turned director turned angry tweeter (he hated on SRK’s Ra.One. If he’s anything like his Tees Maar Khan director wife; he’s loud, obnoxious and talks s^*% about everyone in the biz. Mix that personality with some booze and you’re just asking for real life drama.

The relationship between SRK and Farah’s crew soured when she decided to producer her Tees Maar Khan outside of SRK’s production house, Red Chillies. Since then, rumors of back biting and ill feelings have been flying in the industry. The two were once best friends and produced amazing films like Om Shanti Om and Main Hoon Na together — films edited by Kunder.

According to Business of Cinema, SRK arrived to Sanjay’s party after hosting the Filmfare Awards. It was already very late, Kunder was drunk as a skunk and sloppy with the other guests. An eye-witness told the reliable news source that, “SRK was provoked no less than 5 times, before he was given the go ahead by Sanjay Dutt, and SRK landed his first punch.” Apparently Sanjay threw some punches in the mix as well — which probably isn’t a good idea with his whole criminal record thing.

It may not have been “Love Mera”…but there was a lot of hit hitt-ing going on this weekend. Coming from the usually composed and zen, SRK, this was a surprise for fans and party go-ers.

Will anything every be the same in tinsel town…hai!

Photo Credit: Getty

The trailer reveals posh car chases, suave mode and dishoom–dishoom punches being thrown from Agent Khan, but the plot itself is still a little fuzzy. From the looks of it, Agent Vinod is a Bond-esq film with a hint of Clark Kent-age. We know that Saif’s character never reveals his asli name.

Maybe what seems like a good career move is actually a rare Bollywood infused amnesia. When asked who he is, Saif spurts out names like: Mahinder Sandhu (who played the original Agent Vinod), Anthony Gonzalves (remember the song?) and Vinod Khanna. If nothing else, the film will serve up some old school Bolly-memories.

In the trailer there’s no direct interaction between Saif and Kareena. Do you think there’s an actual love story or they’re just partners in crime?

Watch the trailer and let us know your thoughts!

Photo: Getty Images

Oops, did we just offend every Bollywood music lover on Earth? Well that wasn’t our intention. Without meaning any disrespect to Lataji, it’s surprising to see her back on an album in 2012. At the age of 83, is her voice suited for 30 year old, Kareena Kapoor?

Obviously, we don’t think so, but she is an icon, so it will be interesting to see how things pan out.

So what’s the deal with this song? According to the Times of India, the song in question, “Kyun Yahan Hota Hai/Jo Yahan Hota Hai” was recorded in 2006 for Bhandarkar’s Bipasha Basu starring film, Corporate. It apparently didn’t end up making the cut to be synched by Bips, so Bhandarkar decided to save the song for a more relevant film.

It does make sense when you think about it. Every major actress until recently ran around trees on screen as Lata crooned. If Bhandarkar wants to capture the essence of a female actress’ success, Lata’s is the voice to use and Heroine is the film.

What’s scary though, is that Lata’s last major contribution to a film was the horrendous song from the even worse film, Dunno Y Na Jaane Kyun… They tried to take Lataji’s voice and mod it up by adding English lyrics. The film, which was supposed to be the first gay Bollywood movie, and Lata’s title song were both hot, uncomfortable messes of awkwardness that were painful to experience.

Just for fun, take a listen to “Dunno Y Na Jaane Kyun…” for a train wreck you won’t be able to look away from:

Photo Credit: Getty

There’s a new show starting on the pop culture channel, Bravo TV. Known for reality TV shows like Top Chef (starring the fabulous Padma Lakshmi), The Rachel Zoe Project and the Real Housewives franchise, the channel is going into a new community of rich folk and launching The Shahs of Sunset.

Hold up. Did they say The Shahs? If you’re like us, you got prematurely excited and thought Bravo TV had finally discovered that Desi drama would make the kind of television programming that would put Snooki and her crew to shame. But instead of being about a bunch of Patel Motel owners who made it big, The Shah’s of Sunset actually refers immigrants and second generation immigrants of Middle Eastern descent.

Oops. Well, we’re all brown, right? Um — well, we all definitely have similar drama. The characters on the show are mostly from Iran and Persia. They’re heirs and heiresses to big fortunes that seem to mostly come from real estate. They all seem to be dealing with incestuous dating relations within their community. The guys are looking to settle down and bring home an appropriate girl to mom after years of whoring around. The girls are on the search for mister will-pay-for-my-Chanel. There are, of course, token black sheep of the group who are the subjects of idle gossip: a musician and a heavily mustached gay man.

What do you think? Will Shah’s make even better TV than Chowpatty Shore?

Academy Awards” width=”195″ height=”300″ class=”size-medium wp-image-68228″ />

Photo Credit: Getty

The first project, Saving Face, is nominated in the Documentary, Short Film category. Driected by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Daniel Junge, the film centers around a British-Pakistani doctor who donates his to aid acid victims. Saving Face marks the first nomination for a Pakistani. Karachi based Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy already has an Emmy Award to her name for her documentary Pakistan: Children of the Taliban.

The Short Film Live Action category also gets a Desi infusion with Raju. This film, made by student director, Max Zähle, is about about a German couple who adopt a child in Kolkata, India. Raju has received a slew of awards from various festivals. Check out the moving trailer for Raju

If he can make other artists sound so dope, can you imagine what music he makes with his own artistic flow is going to be like? We want to hear tracks he’s recorded to represent himself. And guess what — the wait for a full album of Flawless-ness is almost over. The DJ will release a free download of his EP, Waseem Stark E.P on January 21st.

Talking about the music, Flawless reveals: “The 5-track E.P. has a sound that is a cross between Tron, Michael Jackson & Skrillex. Let me disappoint a few people and say that this isn’t mindless synth-pop fist pumping music. There is a level of sonic intelligence to the structure of each track and you will hear the difference in the sound.”

Flawless shared the first track, “Mr. Stark,” with us as a sneak peak to his full project. From what we can gather, the album is going to be very electro, kind of dubby, and all sorts of dope. The beats are layered in complex patterns that will course through your body and make you sway in ways you wouldn’t normally expect, while still keeping you on beat. If “Mr. Stark” is the “Lunar” to David Guetta’s Nothing But the Beat, there’s no telling what surprises will be in store for the rest of the album.

So who else is featured on the album? Flawless brought on relatively unknown artists Sam Hasan, Shilpa Narayan and Shawn Cayce. They are artist who Flawless says who can hold their own in his “futuristic, digitized world.”

Flawless will unveil his album at New York’s 5th Annual Aquarius Charity Affair (The Birthday Party for a Cause) which benefits: Childhood Leukemia Foundation, Clean Water Projects through Convey, and SAMAR (South Asian Marrow Association of Recruiters). If you want to check out Flawless’ much anticipated reveal, try and RSVP, but tickets for the free event are hard to come by.

Check out “Mr. Stark” below and tell us what you think. Excited to hear more from who could possibly be the Desi world’s answer to David Guetta? Stay tuned for an in depth review.

Photo Credit: Getty

We’re not talking about the Sheila, Shalu, Munni, Razia, Jalebi Bai, Channo name titled hit item number factor either. We’re talking about dropping a star’s names in songs to add cachce to films?

The latest Bollywood chika to blatantly whore her name out for the sake of a film is Bipasha Basu. The leggy actress (who we thought would end up Mrs. John Abraham until he flew to LA and eloped with some rando within a year of the model couple’s break-up) stars in the upcoming movie Jodi Breakers with Madhavan. The song, composed by Salim-Sulaiman has the actress lip synch-ing about teaching people about the language of love. Get it? Bipasha rhymes with bhasha (language). Kinda? No.

Well, Bips isn’t the only celeb who producers have used to give their films a little extra buzz. Don’t believe us? We’ve got some sabooth for you.

Kareena KapoorKambakkht Ishq
Horrible movie. Horrible song. Kareena Kapoor flits around seducing Akshay Kumar. The producers may have thought that using their star’s name in a song may save them from them from the pathetic script and deplorable acting. No such luck.

Kareena Kapoor, Shilpa Shetty Dabaang
Did they actually give their permission here? Who knows? But the song compliments both actresses and since “Munni” was one of the biggest songs of the year, we doubt either is complaining. As Mallaika Arora Khan shimmies around talking about how she’s been defamed for the sake of her love, she equates her body to Shilpa Shetty’s and her style to Kareena. Did the Bollywood name dropping contribute to the “Munni” success?

ShakiraNo Problem
Shakira is known for her belly dancing moves. Unintentionally, “Shakira” from No Problem drags the “Hips Don’t Lie” singer’s name through the mud. Maybe if one of them knew how to body roll, this song wouldn’t be so fail.

Sridevi Nakaabandi
Damn! Talk about a narcissist! Sridevi sings about all of the old school actresses: Nargis, Hema Malini, Rekha and Nutan. But in the end calls herself out as the hottest one! Hopefully that confidence holds through for her comeback film, English Vinglish

Michael JacksonGangaa Jamunaa Saraswathi
MJ + Disc — maybe. MJ + Bhangra — What!? In this very old school song, Sri Amitabh Bachchan tries to feign that MJ was the King of Disco instead of the King of Pop. I think we just found the silliest example of using a celeb’s name to try and elevate a song.

Beyonce, Jessica Alba, Alyssa Milano — Bikram Singh
Ok, this isn’t a Bollywood track, but it feels necessary to include. Bikram Singh is a US based bhangra artist. His new album, Bik.i.Am features a song called “Beyonce” which tells girls to dance like Queen B. The song’s lyrics, beat and electro vibe wrap up into a little package of fun. Check out the video here.

Manisha Koirala, Madhuri Dixit, Kajol, Pooja Bhatt — Ninaithaen Vandhaai
Individuality seems to be lost on the boys of this song. They ask if a girl is going to be an actress like Manisha, smile like Madhuri, or be like Kajol or Pooja Bhatt. Can’t a girl just be who she is? Come on boys, channel your Cindy Lauper: “Girls just wanna have fun.”

Madhubala — Mere Brother Ki Dulhan
Talk about taking it old school. In the hit film < em>Mere Brother Ki Dulhan,Ali Zafar sings (and acts. Yes– he’s one actor who does both) about the legendary actress Madhubala. Although he’s high on bhang, it’s no bother. He still respectfully calls out just how mesmerizing it is to watch the actress dance.

Photo Credit Gods Robot

If some supreme being were to send robots to Earth in order to reform human and our hegemonic ways, we’d expect that instead of talking, the droids would blare Gods Robot’s music.

The group, that embodies the essence of fusion by combining Hindustani and Carnatic classical music with electronica, dubstep, rock and some reggae, makes music that defies cultural, genre and geographical boundaries. Their sound (perhaps) unintentionally promotes a sense of acceptance and global synergy. So who is Gods Robot?

Musicians, Taamara and DJ Janaka Selekta are a duo who, for a significant duration of their partnership never met face to face. Instead of jamming in a studio, they made music by recording on their own and sending samples back and forth from Mumbai to San Francisco via online file transfers and Skype conversations. Though new age in their approach to collaborating, Taamara and Janaka aren’t necessarily new to the music scene. Vocalist, Taamara, who has a diploma in Carnatic music and lyrically busts out anthems in English and Hindi was a part of the progressive electronica group, Tatva Kundalini. Producer, DJ Janaka Selekta, who is San Francisco based, has worked with everyone from Midevil Punditz to Asian Dub Foundation and Karsh Kale.

The fruit of their online labor is the four-track EP, Stormy Weather which released this past November. The eclectic styles that blend and bend cultures can be thought of as the sound track for Generation Now South Asians and the Diaspora. One culture’s sound can’t define us. We like sarod with our electro beats and tabla bol in our chorus.

The first video to release from the EP (there are more coming soon) is “Stay.” The setting reminds us of a futuristic elementary science classroom and features scenarios as diverse as the influences that bind the song together. But, like their music, everything fits together harmoniously.

Check out the music video and visit the Gods Robot Facebook page for free giveaways of their new track, “Falling.”

Photo Credit: Raine Music Management

Here’s the truth: There are a lot of Desi artists trying to make a name for themselves. But, not a lot of them are recognized for their talent against the backdrop of of shiny cars and flashy club scenes.

That’s not the case with Arjun. The British based Sri Lankan singer’s latest track, “With Us Or Against Us” featuring Jay Mo, establishes his worth as a rare treasure in the sea of wanna-be Jay Sean’s.

There’s a lot that sets Arjun apart as an artist. His voice, for starters, is breathy but powerful. He’s not reaching for out-of-his-range notes in a falsetto like so many pop stars. His sound is authentic, fresh and makes for easy listening.

Arjun demonstrates diversity and his artistic range in each track produces. He started out with the mid tempo smooth R&B crooners, “Remember The Night” and “Stargazer” that will turn any romantic to mush. He moved on to release the grittier, urban sounding “Vampire” which gave him a sexier edge. While it seems like his sound is completely mainstream, Arjun dips into his Desi-ness from time to time. He released “Kabhi Kabhi” sampling the iconic Bollywood song and mixed it with his hip hop flow. Most recently Arjun created a sublime rendition of “Kolaveri Di” that has over 3 million hits on YouTube.

“With Us Or Against Us,” his latest track, will absolutely make Arjun a staple on the club scene. The thumping dance beat and his velvety voice draw you in to bump and grind up against that special someone (for the night). Jay Mo’s rap is chill and flows into the track with ease. It seems like Jay Mo tries to give the track a little reggae vibe towards the end but comes succeed. The video could be classified as just another “Desi in the club” production until you take a second look at Arjun’s style. There’s an ease and realistic vibe that Arjun exudes in his fashion and interaction with others that doesn’t make him look like a baller wanna-be douche bag. The video is reminiscent of a modern day Dirty Dancing. Who doesn’t want to be at that party?

Recently Arjun got through two rounds of MTV UK’s competition trying to find the best unsigned talent in the country. If you are feeling his swagger, go ahead and vote for him.

Check out “With Us Or Against Us” below. Do you agree? Is Arjun the real deal?

Your mind isn’t playing tricks on you, you have heard of him before. Drega has been featured on TBK’s tracks like “O Meri Rani (Spanish Fly)”, and their other street remixes like “Nothing But a Loser,” “This is Why We Hot” and “Candy Girl.”

His collaborations with TBK started after he released several mix-tape projects. He’s also released his own album, Man of the Year which has over 50,000 downloads to date. The album of 10 tracks is impressive in its variety of themes, beats, musical genres and vocal flow. There are tracks like “Batshit” that is light, comical and perfect for the club; “Feeling Amazing,” that has a Caribbean — almost electro-reggaeton vibe; and “Overcome” that bears a heavy message about bullying and flexes his rapping skills. Drega gives TBK’s smooth electro-pop sound and Bilz Music a grittier, more urban edge.

Drega was scooped up by label manager, Vishal Urva who says that Drega fills a void that exists in South Asian music. What is that it factor Drega posses? Urva says it’s a stellar combination of individual personality and creativity that hasn’t been seen on the Urban Desi platform. Drega’s hustle was apparent to Urva. His hustle is an obvious extension the passion he has to change people’s perception about rap.

“My goal with signing with to Bilz Music is to change the status quo. I want people to question what they think a normal rapper should look, sound, and act like. I want to show people you can’t generalize anyone, especially us young people. We’re all complex. Were all fighting against the old ways of doing things. I’m not concerned with making a bunch of money and retiring, I just want to make history and add to the culture rather than saturate it,” says Drega.

Hopefully Drega’s talent does make him that bunch of that dough that he’s not worried about so his projects keep on coming. Bilz Music will release Drega’s new album Let’s Go Nice early on in 2012. They will be documenting the making of his album and sharing it with fans.

Check out Drega’s “Overcome” for a sample of what’s to come from Bilz Music’s newest protegee.

It took us a second, but a couple of Desis took a break from reading their MCAT books and made videos about what brown people say! Have you seen them? No? Well, here they are!

The first video, “S^!& Indian Girls Say” is all about the drama factor — and rightfully so. When you combine Bollywood culture with The Jersey Shore going girls (come on — if you’re reading this you are or at least you know 50 people from Jersey), that’s what you’re going to get: straight up drama. The video also touches on Desi girls thinking that they are super hot, entitled princesses, drinking — but not wanting mom and dad to know and mean girl-esq friendships. Our favorite line is: ‎”He’s f*^&!$g hideous, but he got into medical school.” Ladies, take a look at the ridiculous s%& that comes out of your mouth:

Possibly the funniest “S$%^ [insert type of people] Say” video is “S$!& Sri Lankan Mothers Say.” The video could easily be titled “S#!^ Aunties Say” and apply to the entire sub continent. Who has not been told to bundle up, to come eat, or been accused of being ungrateful by some aunty-ish figure? The video captures an aunty’s inability to let you leave the house without asking 1000000 questions, auntys’ inability to work the simplest technology and their consistent use of emotional blackmail. If you thought that the Indian girls were all about the drama, the aunties may be even worse. Regardless of how annoying they are, you have to love these aunties for their weird nuances. And for their cooking.

Photo Credit: Getty

Who can dance like a champ at 38? Hrithik Roshan, that’s who. The actor has been charming audiences with his green eyes, extra thumb, six-pack abs and killer moves since his first film, Kaho Na Pyaar Hai in 2000. In these 12 years he’s become part of an unshakable power couple, produced two beautiful sons, picked up a Filmfare Award or two, judged a dance competition reality show and kept us smiling with his twinkle toes.

What better way to say Happy Birthday to the perfectionist actor, Hirthik Roshan, than to revisit 10 of his best dance performances?

Take a look and let us know which one is your favorite. Happy Birthday Duggu!

#10: “Baaware” — Luck By Chance
The latest of Hrithik’s most iconic songs is from Luck By Chance, a film that he was in for all of ten minutes. Well those few scenes of him as the snooty actor made an impact, as did the song “Baaware.” (click to watch the song) Hrithik found a way to make a thumka masculine. Any male Bollywood dancer will tell you: it’s hard to do. In this circus number, Hrithik is able to body roll to traditional Rajasthani music, but still make it look authentic. Is he just that hot that we can’t see him do wrong?

#9: “Khawja Mere Khwaja” — Jodha Akbar
By far, “Khwaja Mere Khwaja” is Hrithik Roshan’s most graceful performance. He doesn’t do much, just some Dervish whirls, as Emperor Akbar. Hrithik’s face, fully intoxicated by the pseudo prayer is lost in the moment. There is a softness in his body as he twirls with his head against his arm that is holding up a limp wrist and flat hand. It takes a great actor to not only say his lines, but to fully emote with his body the way Hrithik does in “Khwaja”

#8: “Dhoom Again” — Dhoom: 2
Talk about super energy! “Dhoom Again” is the ultimate modern Bollywood number. Who else could match his moves other than the sublime Aishwarya Rai? She’s also the only one beautiful enough to match Hrithik’s handsomeness. Choreographed by Shiamik Davar, “Dhoom Again” has Hrithik doing all sorts of body contortions, thrusts and rolls. He’s able to, through the grit of his surroundings, still look effortless and sexy.

#7: “Main Aisa Kyun Hoon” — Lakshya
Here’s the ultimate song for someone trying to figure out their life. “Main Asia Kyun Hoon” (Click to watch) is choreographed by India’s very own Michael Jackson, Prabhudeva. Prabhudeva utilized very unique costuming and moves to project Hrithik’s character’s plight. From straight jackets to brief cases, Hrithik was able to carry off all of the crazy extensions and body rolls, but still keep his confused look.

#6: “Krazzy 4″ — Krazzy 4
This dance was a favor for his dad, Rakesh Roshan. Rakesh needed an item number to sell a somewhat dismal film. Actually, he needed three. “Krazzy 4″ was performed by Hrithik for the promo of the film and then by SRK. The film also featured Rakhi Sawant dancing to “Dekhta Hai Tu Kya.”

#5: “You Are My Soniya” — Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham
Who doesn’t love a good pleather outfit on a buff man? You will find Hrithik wearing one in this typical Karan Johar club song. “You Are My Soniya” was one of the first Hinglish songs to make it big on the Bollywood front. Hrithik courts Kareena Kapoor with very bombastic movements. Who could say no to him?

#4: “Chamakti Shaam Hai” — Yaadein
While Yaadein is a film that Hrithik may want to forget, it doesn’t change the fact that he danced his a$$ off. Even at a beautiful Jaipur palace, it’s hard to focus on the surroundings when Hrithik is gettin’ jiggy with it.

#3: “Bhumbro” — Mission Kashmir
There’s really nothing cuter than a good looking Desi boy in a pathani salwar, right? Hrithik is the boy next door who can dance in “Bhumbro.” This song is iconic for its Kashmiri influence, versatile lyrics and the memory of Hrithik and Preity Zinta‘s moves. “Bhumbro” was one of the first song where Hrithik had to act out a lot of lyrics.

#2: “Dil Ne Pukara” — Kaho Na Pyaar Hai
After people saw Hrithik’s amazing body roll in “Dil Ne Pukara,” everyone thought he had reached his dance potential. It may be true. There hasn’t been a song so intensely choreographed since his first film, but he still melts hearts with each flick of the foot.

#1: “Ek Pal Ka Jeena” — Kaho Na Pyaar Hai
We saved his most iconic for the last. Hrithik’s arm thrusting moves have become a staple in Bollywood. If you’re trying to act out Hrithik Roshan in a game of charades, you do the move from this song — or at least try.

She’s known best for her role on NBC’s The Office — a show she also writes for. (Who doesn’t remember the Diwali episode?) She added a great dry humor to the Ashton Kutcher, Natalie Portman starrer, No Strings Attached where we wanted to get more attached to her than the main characters. Another claim to fame is her extremely successful book: Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) after which the New York Times described her as: “Tina Fey’s cool little sister. Or perhaps… the next Nora Ephron.”

If that wasn’t enough on her plate, Mindy has another job as spokeswoman for Healthy Choice. Why? Well, why not? Being busy can be fun if your projects are all as cool as Mindy’s. But really, she did grow up eating Healthy Choice meals with her mom. And she claims she really likes them. Anyone who is a FFA (former fat a@#) knows that it’s good to have a healthful meal around. With her schedule as busy as it must be, and with her history of being a chubster, Kaling may very well be in need of an easy option to feed her face!

Check out Mindy’s Healthy Choice commercial below:

Photo Credit: Kandisa

Kailash Kher’s latest track, “Rangeele” is a call to action for all of us to follow our hearts to the fullest. The video’s official description says that we should all “live a little more freely, bravely and happily. Live in technicolour not black and white!”

When you hear the song and watch the story that unfolds in the video, you won’t be able to sit idly by for another second.

The video opens with three separate vignettes of different people. As the story unfolds, we see how the least assuming people go on to create something together. How do a music store attendant, director and chai-wallah come together to make beautiful music? Watch the video and see.

Lyrically, the song is an anthem for how to live a fulfilled life. Kailash croons that problems can always be solved. He tells the audience to listen to the tune of the heart. Figure out what is true and what is a lie. Once you embrace your truth, you will find meaning and color in places you may not have expected.

“Rangeele” is another example of why audiences love Kailash Kher’s music. Aside from the positive, bordering-on-self-help lyrics, musically, and vocally, “Rangeele” is a treat. Kher’s voice is assuring and powerful. He envelops you in his magical world where we are free to live life without a thought of bills, responsibilities and strife. Unlike many of his songs, Kher keeps this track low key throughout. We don’t hear a lot of the vibrato or many riffs he is known for. Instead, Kher adds his flare by bending and sliding certain notes to keep the song interesting. The simplicity of his vocals and the music is comforting and elicits an inner strength.

Positivity. Courage. Adventure. Are these not not the best thoughts to imbibe this new year?

Photo Credit: Getty

Well, if you haven’t seen Dirty Picture yet, you have no idea how amazing Vidy Balan is an actress. Never fear, even though DP is out of the theaters, we are already catching glimpses of Balan’s next flick, Kahaani.

It seem that Balan is found of the South since this is the second film set in and shot in South India. From the film, we can gather that a very pregnant Balan heads to Calcutta to find her husband who is missing. When she arrives to file a missing persons report, it looks like she gets bogged down by red tape. Taking it upon herself to search for the father of her about-to-be-born child, Balan visits the places she thinks that her husband has been but no one has heard of him.

At the very last moment of the trailer we see Balan getting pushed in front of an oncoming train. How will this movie end if our protagonist dies too!?

Musically, it seems like we are going to get a full immersion into the sounds of Bengal. Immediately, with the conch, the percussion: drums, cymbals and vocal howling are typical of a Bengali celebration. Perhaps we will enjoy a festive item song or two? But based on the serious tone of the trailer that doesn’t seem likely.

Are you going to check out “Kahaani”?

Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif Photo Credit: Getty

As soon as we heard the tracks for Agneepath, we shared them and hoped you would fall in love as hard as we did.

Two of the tracks that we mentioned as standout were “Chikini Chameli” and “Gun Gun Guna.” Well, videos from both songs have been released and we can’t decide which one we like better. Help!

Decisions, Decisions. On the one hand we have “Chikini Chameli’ — a sizzling hot item number performed by Katrina Kaif. The song is set in what rural India may call a club. The dudes are all over Katrina as she thrusts, shakes and gives face to the camera. Her moves are pretty slick and give other actresses who have attempted Maharashrian dances a run for their paisa. The song’s vocals and melody drip sex and heat and the beat makes it impossible not to tap along. But is the song better than “Gun Gun Gun?”

It’s hard to choose! Where “Chikini Chameli” is all about sensuality, “Gun Gun Guna” is sweet and romantic. In this song, Priyanka Chopra is celebrating the birthday of Hrithik Roshan. Even though he’s resisting her efforts to make him feel special, Priyanka doesn’t give up. With the help of the entire community Hrithk puts some fat on those abs with a bite of cake and finally smiles by the end of the song. Priyanka’s dancing is seriously on point. (That’s what happens when Saroj Khan choreographs.) Everything from her facial expressions to her super hip shaking is a joy to watch and makes you feel warm and gooey inside. Priyanka’s interaction with Hrithik is almost too cute for words.

So, which is it? The sex bomb or the chori next door? Who delivers a better performance in this intra-film battle. Check out both the videos below and drop us a line on our Facebook page about which song you prefer!

Photo Credit: Getty

AR Rahman has Filmfare Awards, Golden Globes and Oscars. What could anyone get him to upstage those gifts? India’s Mozart turns 46 today. No matter how many candles line his cake, Rahman’s music is always as fresh and innovative as when he first bounded on the music scene with Roja at the age of 26.

With a full 20 years in the music industry, we thought about the gargantuan scope of work he has produced as a music director in hopes of coming up with a list of our favorites. That was too hard. So we decided to commemorate Rahman’s Birthday by celebrating our favorite tracks Rahman has sung! What gave these songs an edge to make the cut? It’s Rahmans vocal ability to elevate his compositions with his signature chorus, iconic riffs and breath taking alaaps.

Happy Birthday Rahman sahib! Cheers to many more years of ground breaking music.

#10: “Jai Ho” — Slumdog Millionaire
As Desi’s, “Jai Ho” is a track that we all love. Do we think it’s his best work and what we wish was seen by the west as Oscar worthy? Debatable. If Slumdog got an Oscar nod, what about the gorgeous Lagan soundtrack, which was also a Rahman film?

#9: “Khwaja Mere Khwaja” — Jodhaa Akbar
“Khwaja Mere Khwaja” is the kind of song that you can have on repeat for hours and not get tired of. The only way to make this song better is to watch Hrithik dancing to the song. His soft, graceful twirls brilliantly match Rahman’s powerful, yet understated composition.

#8: “Tere Bina” — Guru
Audiences fell in love with “Tere Bina.” Guess who else did? Abhishek and Aishwarya. The leading pair from Guru made their relationship official and got engaged during the promotion of the film. If there’s anyone who you want composing the soundtrack to your love story, it’s AR Rahman. Lucky Abhi and Ash probably couldn’t help but fall in love as they shot this romantic tune.

#7: “Dil Se Re” — Dil Se
While “Chaiyaa Chaiyaa” is known in the west as THE Bollywood song, it’s “Dil Se Re” that really captures the spirit of Hindi films. The syncopated beats that drop through the entire song, mixed with the anguish and drama of Rahman’s vocals sum it up. We like our films interesting, unexpected and passionate.

#6: “Ishq Bina” — Taal
Talk about a monstrous album. Taal not only gave Aishwarya Rai notoriety as an actress, it is also an album that has something for everyone. There are soft qawaali’s, folk songs, operas and rock. Who could turn all of those genres into a cohesive album? Only Rahman. His addition to the chorus on “Ishq Bina” is what sticks out about the track. There’s a rustic charm and unpolished elegance that comes through as he belts that life is nothing without love.

#5: “Khalbali” — Rang De Basanti
Speaking about Rahman’s youthfulness, there’s no better word to describe “Khalbali” from Rang De Basanti. His fire filled delivery captures the angst of chaos and revolution that the song is about.

#4: “Ma Tujhe Salaam” — Vande Matram
The world saw his patriotism when he dropped lines in Hindi and Tamil at the Oscars. India knew that Rahman was full of love for his country when he released the independent album, Vande Matram. While “Vande Matram” is also a well known patriotic song, it’s Rahman’s spin that turned a classic into a new classic. “Ma Tujhe Salam” is just as venerated as India’s National anthem.

#3: “Mere Yaar Mila De” — Saathiyaa
If you know anything about Yash Raj films, you know that they are extremely particular about their soundtracks. So of course they have worked with Rahman — but only once so far. Leader of the pack, Yash Chopra is actually coming out of retirement to direct a new film which is going to be scored by Rahman for their second collaboration. He’s told papers that everything Rahman sends to him is golden. So is the soundtrack from Saathiya. Rahman’s heart-broken rendition of “Mere Yaar Mil De” conveys the anguish of losing your love.

#2: “Rehna Tu” — Delhi 6
Delhi 6‘s soundtrack is full of all sorts of songs that wouldn’t seem to go together. While each track is appropriate for the situations, the film itself fails to piece the story together. As a breezy love song, it’s hard to not want to hold someone’s hand and confess your feelings while listening to “Rehna Tu.”

#1: “Yeh Jo Desh Hai Tera” — Swades
Another patriotic track that got the Rahman treatment is “Yeh Jo Desh Hai Tera” from Swades. He delivers an understated lust for his country in a track that reopens your eyes to the beauty that surrounds us daily.

She’s working with some of the best in the business. From getting her vocals in shape with Justin Timberlake‘s coach and working with some of the best producers on the scene including Timbaland, Carishma is on her way to making a splash.

She’s documenting her journey on her YouTube and Facebook Fan Page, giving fans an inside look at what goes into making a superstar. She sings acapella and without a track backing her up, which, for an attractive aspiring pop artist in the era of auto tune, is pretty impressive and proves her legitimacy.

In her conversations she describes the sound she’s looking for as somewhere between Britney and Rihanna with an edge like Janet Jackson — all for 2012. Well, the girl knows music and knows what she wants.

So what has she put out so far? We’ve heard two tracks: “Glow In The Dark” and “Keep Hangin’ On.” The track for “Keep Hangin’ On” is up on YouTube. The song is produced by Timbaland and features his signature “Tika-tika” embellishments. Carishma’s vocals are clean and not overpowered by crazy vibrato. There’s some similarity to “If We Ever Meet Again” ft. Katy Perry and we feel a “We Found Love in a Hopeless Place” vibe (yay for RiRi–Carishma is catching up).

The video for “Glow in the Dark” is set during a rogue beach party. In the making of video Carishma says that the song is about looking for a boy who makes you feel special. Well, she sure found a hottie. As they dance around at the beach-glow-in-the-dark-paint rager, we get to see a little bit of Carishma’s Desi swagger. Her jewelry — especially the oversized hand jewels looks like what a modern day maharani would rock. She also gives an avant garde sari drape look in her bikini top with the scarf over her left shoulder. And as we all know, Desi girls are known for their thumka. In the Beyonce “Naughty Boy” writhing dance recreation, her choreographer says that she brought some moves from her roots to the table. Represent!

Carishma is definitely on the rise. Keep up with her ascent to super stardom here!

According to her Tweets Oprah’s coming for more than just pleasure. She’s obviously going to be shooting for her OWN Network show, Next Chapter and visiting the beautiful city of Jaipur. But what else?

When Lady Gaga was in India she performed, went to parties with Bollywood elite and was even interviewed by Shah Rukh Khan. Tom Cruise also got the Bollywood treatment, met the industry and walked the red carpet for the Mission Impossible screening.

Photo Credit: Getty

Well, Oprah was invited by Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, the openly gay prince of Rajpipla, Gujarat, to stay at his palace when he was on the talk show host’s infamous couch. Gohil appeared on two episodes of Oprah talking about his experiences as an international gay royal. Maybe Oprah will her dandiya on. Hope she likes dhokla.

Do you remember who else’s fabulous bottom graced Oprah’s couch? None other than new gorgeous mummyji, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. For her first sit down, Ash dished on living with her parents, what it was like to be dubbed the most beautiful woman in the world and the lack of PDA in Bollywood. On her second stint, Ash brought along her hubby Abhishek Bachchan. They fessed up to what it’s like being the more famous version of Branjolina.

We’d expect that Oprah will spend some time with the Abhi and Ash — and maybe their uber famous parents as well. There have been rumors that the Bachchans have been waiting to release photos of Beti B, Abhi and Ash’s newly popped out daughter, to a foreign publication for some serious cash. Could Beti B’s first touch-up be for Oprah’s camera?

When O went off the air and crushed the souls of housewives everywhere, we listed her top Desi moments. It looks like we’ll have to put together a new list of Oprah’s moments in the desh!

While in India, who do you suspect Oprah will have chai with?

Photo Credit: Getty

It’s a Bolly-Birthday! Many happy returns of the day to Deepika Padukone. She’s got a body that doesn’t quit and a face that would launch a million films.

This actress is proof that you don’t need to be part of a filmi family to get your start in the biz. She grew up the daughter of a Badminton champ and modeled for years before venturing into films.

Famous for her love for and break up with Ranbir Kapoor, and current business heir boo, Sid Mallya, there’s never a moment we don’t want to know what’s going on with this girl. Unlike a lot of today’s actresses, Deepika comes off in interviews as genuine and grounded. Drama may follow her, but she’s an actress, that’s to be expected.

Here’s hoping that turning 26 brings in love, success and peace for Miss Om Shanti Om!

#13: “Dhoom Tana” — Om Shanti Om
Deepika busted on to the Bollywood scene with her double role in OSO opposite SRK. Not a bad way to start your career for sure. Her beauty was evident from day one, but it wasn’t until she proved her dancing chops that the world knew, a new Bollywood starlet had been born.

#12: “Khuda Jaane” — Bachna Ae Haseeno
There’s some serious chemistry in this video. Perhaps it has to do with the fact that during the shooting Deepika was seeing her co-star Ranbir Kapoor. She may have been fida over him at the time, but after their break up it was his reputation that was slightly destroyed. Rumor has it that they are coming back in a film together.

#11: “Chor Bazaari” — Love Aaj Kal
To date, Love Aaj Kal is one of Deepika’s best performances. As the hippy artist with a modern view of relationships, this role really solidified her as an actress. And she looks mad cute in all of her kurtis.

#10: “Uff Teri Ada” — Karthik Calling Karthik
“Uff” is one of the only Hinglish songs that really brings a smile on our face. The lyrics actually work and sound authentic versus so many Bollywood tracks that are full of pathetic, forced raps. We’re glad this beauty was able to make the song come to life. Who doesn’t want to be at a club where Deepika climbs up on the bar?

#9: “Adhoore” — Break Ke Baad
Super cute movie. Super cute couple. Super cute song. That’s really all there is to say about “Adhoore.”

#8: “Mit Jaaye Gham” — Dum Maro Dum
Work it, Deepika! Though she didn’t make herself a “Sheila,” she definitely looks hot. This broke her image as the quintessential “Indian” girl next door and took her to sex bomb status. If the song had been better, there’s no question that Deepika would have rocked the number.

#7: “Jhak Maar Ke” — Desi Boyz
Desi Boyz is about two hot guys who are making cash by stripping. How good are John Abraham and Akshay Kumar as exotic dancers? Our guess is not very skilled. Not that we hope Deepika ever has to resort to nangi-ness, but we know she has the moves.

#6: “Love Mera Hit Hit” — Billu Barber
When SRK calls and asks you to do a song in his movie, you do it! It seems like Deepika gets her best moves from choreographer, Farah Khan who also directed her in Om Shanti Om. When else has her dancing been so on point?

#5: “Mauka” — Aarakshan
Serious film. Serious acting. Serious flop. Sadly this one didn’t take off at the box office, but Aarakshan did give Deepika to act opposite Amitabh Bachchan. Lucky girl!

#4: “Man Lafanga” — Lafangay Parinda
Every modern Bollywood actress’ dream is to be in a Yash Raj production. Deepika performed well as the blind girl who trains to fight under the banner. Although, seeing Deepika in a modern Chandini would also be dope. We already know she can pull off a double role!

#3: “Tere Naina” — Chandni Chowk To China
Sometimes people just don’t know how to pick a film. This was Deepika’s big film after her debut. Sadly it did nothing for her career. If she hoped for a cat woman-esq role, she must have been deeply disappointed.

#2: “Aankhon Mein Teri Ajab Si ” — Om Shanti Om
Fun fact:Om Shanti Om‘s “Aankhon Se Teri” was not supposed to be a part of the film at all. When music directors, Vishal and Shekhar played it for director, Farah Khan, she insisted that it be included. The track then became the theme for Deepika’s film!

#1: “Sapne Saloney” — Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey
They were probably hoping for another Lagan Oscar worthy film, but alas, no such luck. Not many people saw the film, and even less had positive things to say about it. Oh well, at least we got a good song out of it.

Obviously it won’t do well, right? WRONG! Overnight Classic debuted on the iTunes World chart at number five on January 1, and is holding its place in the top ten.

What is it about Sabri’s album that is getting him noticed? It’s his lyrical prowess and dexterity that won us over. His words are smart, funny and have a way of hitting home. He is able to seamlessly flow from talking about fruit roll ups to General Motors and Brett Favre then alluding to his Desi-ness without missing a beat or sounding ridiculous.  There’s absolutely no lull on the album. Each line keeps the listener on their toes and excited for what’s coming next.

Sabri lists his musical influences on his Facebook fan page as Eminem, Blink-182, Kanye West, Blue Scholars and U2. Listening to the album — before we checked out the FB page — we penned Sabri’s angst and tenacious spitting is easily reminiscent of Eminem. The music and live instrumentation revive some Kanye classics. The choruses of Sabri’s “On and On” and Blink 182′s “All The Small Things” share the same ring. (“Na na na na na na na na na na” is stuck in our head)

But Sabri is in no way a copy cat. He’s taken what very diverse, stellar artists do well, made it his own for a very cohesive album. What strings Overnight Classic together? Sabri’s deep love for music. In “The Music,” “The Music, Part 2″ and “For You,” Sabri, a Tennessee native, raps about music as his Southern Belle and “consummating the marriage with beats, rhymes and lyrics.” This is clearly a focused, ambitious, talented young musician.

It’s hard to pick a favorite track off the album but we have to shout out “Hey I’m Mo (Desi Flow).” The sample of “Bardaasht” from the Bollywood film, Humraaz is completely unexpected, but fits in on the album brilliantly. You have to be pretty up to date on your Bolly-knowledge to pull that song out of the wood work. Like with all of the other influences, Sabri is able to make the Bollywood sound all his own and better than the original.

If you’re thinking, “aight, this kid is good for a Desi rapper,” think again. He’s not just dope for the brown music sphere — he’s like the Aziz Ansari of music. Talent is universal and hopefully will be recognized.

Mo Sabri’s chart position has proved that the world is ready for an album full of real music, Overnight Classic will inspire, make you smile and remember what it’s like to listen to genuine artistry.

We hope you enjoyed 2011 with MTV Desi. 2012 is going to be even more Desi-baller. Stay tuned!

#11: Thrust Your Way On The Dance Floor
“Chikini Chameli” closes out 2011 as the last item number of the year. The heavy beat, Marathi inspired number from Agneepath is sure to get your guests pelvic-thrusting on the dance floor. Watch out though, you don’t want any drunk uncles trying to pull a Katrina and light a match with his chest. No one likes the scent of burnt hair.

#10: CNN’s Pick
You can’t bid adieu to this year without mentioning “Kolaveri Di.” Even CNN is rocking out to the track. But if you’re looking to dance, you may want to steer clear of the original. Here’s a remix that’s a little more party friendly.

#9: Feeling On Top
If you’re looking to impress your friends with tracks that are going to be in vogue next year, look no rather than Raghav‘s “Top Of The World.” You’ll be lauded as a Desi music pundit and your guests, with enough booze, will ring in 2012 feeling on top of the world.

#8: Party Today, Party Tomorrow
It’s understandable if you still love Karan Johar‘s “Where’s The Party Tonight.” We all do. But how about a facelift for 2012? Work in “Aaj Bhi Party” from Jo Hum Chahein. If people haven’t heard the song before, it will give someone a chance to bust out the latest smart phone and show everyone the hot cast on YouTube.

#7: Bollykon
Sure you could throw on Akon‘s “I Wanna Love You,” but that ish is mad old, yo! Keep it fresh with “Chammak Chalo,” the global pop star’s collaboration with Bollywood superstar SRK! If you feel you’ve heard the track at every single party since last February when the track leaked, maybe you’ll enjoy “Criminal.” Regardless of which track you choose, booty’s will be poppin’.

#6: 2012 — A Whole New B*#$%
The topic of resolutions never fails to come up at a NYE party. For when one of your guests inevitably says, “I am going to be a whole new person,” make sure the DJ has Anjulie‘s “Brand New Bitch” cue’d up for a solo performance.

#5: A Piece of My Bolly-loving Heart
You’re going you have someone who is BOLLY-OBSESSED at your fete and they’re going to want to hear some tacky song. Instead of busting out “Dil Bole Hadippa” again this year, give them some “Jigar Da Tukda” from Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl. Cliched Bollywood at its best!

#4: New Year’s Baby Makin’ Music
Are you going to need a slow dance? Probably right after the ball drops and everyone is making out. Keep the tonsil tennis going by flooding the room with Shankar Tucker’s super cool and sexy clarinet. The right mix of champagne, hotties and “O Re Piya / Rolling In The Deep” will steam up the windows for the rest of the night.

#3: Williamsburg In Da Basement
Do you have hipsters at your party? Get them in the dancing mood with DJ Rekha‘s Bolly-Hip track, “Pyar Baile!” There’s no way anyone is staying still the sick beat and vocals by Zuzuka Poderosa and Meetu Chilana.

#2: Fantasies for 2012
Before the clock strikes midnight, you have to give people one of the best tracks that 2011 had to offer. Bollywood’s klasy film, Dirty Picture had a monstrous soundtrack. The pièce de résistance? “Ooh La La!” You can’t help but love it. How better to leave the year than to commemorate its greatness?

#1: Ring In The New Year
If you even have to ask what Desi track you need to play to usher in 2012 is, you’re clearly not “Down” with our boy, Jay Sean! His track, “2012 (It Aint The End)” may have been a premature release, but it’s the perfect anthem for 11:59PM on January 31st. Jay Sean says, “Turn it up, mash it up, it ain’t the end of the world!” Get ready to party!

Forget the 9 Nights of Navaratri
As ridiculous as this song is, it’s equally brilliant and reflective of South Asians. It’s actually common for someone to receive eight Bollywood films as a gift. And we’re not just talking about getting a DVD bundle. Budding actors whose families have been in Bollywood for generations gifted films as the way mere mortals receive Play Stations.

Balle Balle Bells
This video has been around for a the last couple Christmases, but it’s never fails to elicit a smirk on our faces. Do you think of your favorite drunk uncle at the family holiday party too? The shoulders definitely look familiar. Watch the video — you’ll get it!

Dandiya Jingle
As if a Punjabi version of “Jingle Bells” wasn’t enough, this year we came across (it may only be new to us) the Gujju-Tamil spun version of the classic Holiday chant. And we love it! Great animation, awesome lyrics and phenomenal women getting their garba on! What more could you ask for this Christmas?

SRK Santa
This Christmas, Desi will be belting out carols from SRK‘s new film Don 2. The action thriller starring Boman Irani, Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra releases this weekend and is where you will find most Desis who don’t light up a tree. Is there a better Christmas gift than a new SRK film? We didn’t think so!

Photo Courtesy of Nouman Khalid

The holidays are a time for food, fun, family and fermented fluids. Every year around this time, we take stock of what we have achieved over the last 365 days, and plan what we hope the next twelve months will amount to.

Pakistani singer, Nouman Khalid, has, in the past year released tracks like “Desi Thumka,” the 2011 equivalent to Imran Khan‘s “Ni Nachle.” As he gets ready to usher in 2012, he is calling on his fans to examine how they can make the world a better place with the song “Jaag Re Banday.”

Translated to “Wake up, friend,” “Jaag” explores why we always see the glass half empty.  Khalid essentially talks about how everyday is new and about how life is too short to sweat the small stuff. On his Facebook fan page, Khalid posted that this is dedicated to Pakistan. He wants to inspire his countrymen to be better individuals to improve the greater Pakistan.

If listening to affirmations isn’t enough of a draw for you, check out the track for Khalid’s rustic sounding voice in a breezy, mid tempo ballad. Drawing you into the Latin inspired song is the syncopate beat that we dare you not to clap along to.

Positive vibes and great music? It really is going to be a happy new year!

Photo Courtesy of: Nang Records

Typical hip hop-rap-Desi tracks are kind of tired, don’t you agree? There’s just no need to listen to the same formulaic track from different artists over and over again. (No, we’re not naming anyone.) If you missed great urban-desi fusion, you will love The Truth’s “Can’t Change Me.” Cross-cultural music feels cool again.

Hailing from The UK, The Truth is an artist, turned lawyer, turned back to artist/rapper. No objection, your honor. Although he had been on the scene for years, The Truth didn’t debut his solo work until 2010 with “Kya Karoon,” a track that laid raags and Hindustani classical alaaps over a sick dance beat. “Kya Karoon” was followed by “Sharabi,” a song about drinking and partying with a bhangra twist.

After several features, and a ballad he dropped earlier this fall, The Truth is back with a track that is anything but average.

The beat is so raw and powerful that it flirts with being being boxed into the drum and bass and dubstep category, but the unique layers of “Can’t Change Me” make un-categorize-able. On top of the truly monstrous beat, producer, Bobby Wonda has lightened the track with the smooth, quintessentially Indian bansuri flute. This unique combination is a fresh reminder that the dhol and bhangra are not the only things that come out of South Asian music. The sound makes us nostalgic for Rishi Rich’s “Tere Jeha Hor,” but is even better.

It’s common to get two artists to spit lyrics on a track. “Can’t Change Me” ups the game by featuring three very different vocalists who find a way to coexist harmoniously on this very rough track. First there is PropheC from Canada who is the melody of the song. His nasal, rustic Punjabi almost mimics the electronic dub sounds sounds. Also getting his Punjabi on is UK rapper, Kan D Man who seamlessly delivers rap sections without sounding contrived.

Of course, we have the man himself, The Truth rapping on the track. Setting himself apart from a lot of Desi acts, The Truth chooses to stray from the lyrical formula of party + alcohol + kudiyan = good track on “Can’t Change Me.” Instead, he raps about staying true to himself and his passion for music.

Look, I’m just doing me //Don’t try to change me// I’m not an anagram don’t try to rearrange me

If anyone does try to change The Truth, they’d be doing to world of music a serious disservice.

It’s painful to admit, but we do have to say that it would have helped if the video for “Can’t Change Me” wasn’t so trippy. Watching it could induce seizures – and not because the music is so good that you want to dance.

Although we recommend minimizing the screen when you click on the video, do listen and let us know what you think!

Photo Credit: Getty

If you’re waiting to see Dharma Production’s remake of the Amitabh Bachchan cult film, Agneepath to watch steamy scenes between Hrithik and Priyanka, we don’t blame you. But there’s another reason to get excited. Why, you ask? The film is going to have a stellar soundtrack.

The full album hasn’t been released yet, but we’ve heard snippets and it’s pretty clear that there are going to be some chart buster tracks.

“Chikini Chameli” has been talked about for the past couple of months as the new “Shelia Ki Jawani.” Katrina Kaif as the item girl won’t be the only repeat with this track. While “Sheila” was an original, fantastically sexy dance, we’re not sure how “Chikini Chameli” isa rehashed version of music director, Ajay Atul’s hit song, “Kombdi Palali” from the movie, Jatra. For Agneepath they have just slapped on Hindi lyrics from Amitabh Bhattacharya. But, the song’s beat, melody and energy is so outstanding that there’s no question it will be a hit the second time around. It would have been nice if could have come up with a new track.

A song that is totally fresh and that is going to be as beautiful to watch as it is to listen to is “Gun Gun Guna.” Based on the trailer and all the rest of the soundtrack, it seems like the moves that we have already seen Priyanka Chopra bust out will be to this track. The pairing of Sunidhi Chauhan and Udit Narayan is both welcomed and unexpected as he’s been off the scene for a while. Sunidhi’s chubuli rendering of the track is sure to add some sass.

Last listed on the album is “Deva Shree Ganesha.” It’s full of energetic Marathi percussion and praises the Hindu deity Ganpati. The vocals have a baritone strength but flow from note to note like butter. In Bollywood films, religious tracks often are the backdrop for violence. We’re hoping that the visuals match the beauty of the sound.  This track is going to get your foot tapping and turn you towards a temple.

To hear all of the snippets from Agneepath check out this link.

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station was taken over by hundreds of excited youth who busted out dance moves to the patriotic Hindi film song “Rang De Basanti” on a Sunday evening in November.

The organizers told the Wall Street Journal that they wanted to be a part of something spectacular and being a part of a flash mob happened to be on their bucket list. With the help viral emails and social media, young Mumbaikers learned the routines and flooded the station’s authorites with requests to use their space.

Who would have thought that one of Mumbai’s busiest spots could support hundreds of dancers charging through its terminal. Flash mobbers created a real-life Bollywood experience. Check it out:

It’s not just India that’s picked up on the Fash mob trend. Desis across the globe have used flash mobs to infuse some masla into an average day.

UK Bhangra artist,  Foji, shot his latest video, “Pumbeeri” as a flash mob. According to the video, it took four weeks of planning and 12 strategically placed cameras to surprise the unsuspecting Birmingham audience and capture the performance. Looks like efforts definitely paid off.

A Desi girl’s wedding is full of song and dance. Why shouldn’t the proposal start off the naach-gaan? This San Francisco groom had the right idea when popping the question. Now this is what we call a Bollywood Hero.

New York City’s Time Square often smells like masala with all of the kabab vendors. But one day the epicenter of Manhattan was taken over by Bollywood dancers promoting the film Bollywood Hero. Check out the film’s leads, Chris Kattan and Neha Dhupia watching on.

Shilpa Shetty‘s hot “Shut Up and Bounce” number from Dostana was taken from Miami to Chicago via Trikone, an organization creating visibility for LGBT people of South Asian descent, and Meher Dance Co. The two organizations turned Hollywood Beach into Bollywood beach and shot a Desi boy love story.

Before all of the protesters showed up, it was  Dhooyna Dance (remember them from Oprah?) of DC and New York who occupied Wall Street. Dhoonya’s dancers gathered right by the bull to show the Financial District their bolly-disco moves.

These aren’t the only videos out there. Check out Whole Food‘s hot line getting Bolly-fied, Nach Radio‘s flash mob in Canada, a Desi explosion under the Eiffel Tower and Oregon State University‘s staff’s surprise Bollywood performance.

Which flash mob is your favorite?

Photo Credit: Getty

First Louis Vuitton used vintage saris to create a custom dress for Diwali. Now Chanel revealed an entire collection inspired by India! The fashion gods have spoken. Desi couture is the rage.

Chanel unveiled their new line,”Paris-Bombay,” at the opulent Grand Palais in Paris on Tuesday. The runway cut down the middle of tables set for an equisite, crystal filled banquet. As guests enjoyed sweets and high tea snacks, and a train circulating with glasses of Indian alcohol, their eyes were treated to a far-east fashion feast.

Designer Karl Lagerfeld told the Wall Street Journal that his collection is “a fantastical idea of India.” The pictures from the fashion show prove to be both fantastical and just plain fantastic.

The South Asian influences were undeniable, but not overwhelming, forced or cliche.

The embroidered pearls and matte gold and silver strung the line together. The jewels, made of antique silver, kundan and an emerald or two were brilliantly showcased as traditional tikkas, gloves, hair pieces and anklets, brought in a regal touch to the already luxurious fashion. Structured nehru jackets, sari-style draped sweaters, light dresses, chiffon dupttas, chudidar inspired leggings, sari-inspired block dresses, turbans, sherwani suits and safari ties populated the line.

We were floored by the entire collection, but here are the pieces that we really love:

• Dhoti pants fused with chudidar
• Iconic Chanel suits with a Desi twist
• Chappals you can wear to the market and to a black tie event

Would you wear Lagerfeld’s pieces to your next party-sharty? Check out the show and let us know what you think:

Did Malik think that she would do this without raising perfectly threaded eyebrows? She’s known for her scandals, but this time she’s claiming that the magazine pushed things too far. In statements from her lawyers, Malik had agreed to do the shoot topless, but wearing some sort of undergarment. She claims that the magazine has photoshopped her knickers out. Malik filed a $2 million law suit for printing the photos.

She gave the OK for the tattoo, but didn’t think that it would be a big deal as ISI could be an abbreviation for a lot of things (ex. Is She Insane).

FHM’s Editor, Kabeer Sharma, asserted that Malik was completely naked during the shoot, and that they have video to prove it. Sharma is quoted in the NY Post saying:

“It’s a considered effort on our part not to make the video public because of the nature of the video.”

“The allegations are entirely false and we are investigating various options, including a counter suit.”

Conservative Muslim’s in Pakistan, including Malik’s dad, have slammed the spread, calling it “a shame for all Muslims.” Abu Malik has gone so far as to disown his daughter and cut off all ties until Veena clears up the controversy and vows never to visit India again.

Here’s wishing the star luck cleaning up this mess — only so she’s not left without her family. If she did try and push the boundaries by posing nude, props to Veena for bringing the sexy. If not, we hope Daddy’s gussa subsides.

Photo Credit: Getty

16.5 million views on Facebook in just two weeks? We’d say that qualifies as a video gone viral! The latest Desi YouTube sensation is “Why This Kolaveri Di” (Why This Murderous Rage, Girl?), a track from the Tamil film, 3.

Recorded as a silly tribute to failed love, “Kolaveri” is being touted as a song of today’s youth. One has to wonder what it is about the song that has created such a buzz. Is it the catchy, nonsensical, Tanglish lyrics over a rustic melody and beat? Or is it the universal theme that has captured the world?

Perhaps it’s a mix of both. Either way, there’s no denying that everyone from the youngest school children to the oldest grandmothers are singing along. Since the video’s  YouTube debut, several new versions have popped up online. A female cover of “Kolaveri Di,” a rendition in Marathi, one in Gujarati and even one featuring Hitler’s reaction to the video are all raking in hits.

Our favorite version has to be Bollywood playback singer, Sonu Niigam‘s son, Nevaan prepubescently crooning about heartbreak. He may still needs to do a little bit of riaz (practice) to be as good as daddy, but he’s well on his way! Check out the munchkin’s rendition:

Would Nevaan’s version have gotten so much attention if his papa wasn’t Sonu Niigam? He’s pretty cute, so he may still have become the new fat “Dhinka Chika” kid, but there’s more filmy nepotism around “Kolaveri Di!”

3, the film for which “Kolaveri Di” was recorded, is directed by Aishwarya Rajnikanth Dhanush. She’s the daughter of South India’s legendary actor, Rajnikant. Her husband is the vocalist on the track and male lead of 3. Also sitting in the studio for the “Kolaveri Di” video is the film’s female lead, Shruti Hassan — daughter of Bollywood actors Kamal Hassan and Sarika.

Those are a lot of powerful film industry names. It’s easy to get a tweet about your film from Amitabh Bachchan when your dad is his South Indian counter part. Maybe there’s more behind this song’s success than meets the non-industry insider’s eye.

The Dirty Picture is the biopic of Silk Smita (Balan) who works her way up the film industry ladder to be known as a sultry South Indian superstar. She is known for her daring, bold person on and off screen. The film deals with all facets of sexual politics within the film industry. On her climb to the top she meets plenty of men including Shah – an aging hero, Kapoor – a script writer who loves Silk and Hashmi – a director and Silk’s nemesis.

Here’s what Bollywood film stalwarts had to say about the film!

Renowned Critic and trade analyst, Taran Adarsh, said that the film is “Well narrated and wonderfully executed, The Dirty Picture is sure to strike a chord with the avid moviegoer” on Bollywood Hungama.

Karan Johar, who is one of the most powerful directors/producers in Bollywood, took to Twitter to share his positive review.

Superstar author, Chetan Bhagat was also all praise for the film. He tweeted: “Few Indians make me proud of being Indian. Vidya Balan is one. She isnt just an actor, she is an artist. Superb performance. The movie breaks so many new grounds, and opens the door for Indian biopics. Congrats to Milan Luthria (director) and Rajat Aroraa (writer).

Film critic, Rajeev Masand was not as impressed as everyone else, but he still appreciated Vidya Balan’s work. On his blog, Masand wrote “Vidya Balan goes where few have gone before, putting it all out there, literally, for the sake of her art. Pity it’s for a film as unremarkable as The Dirty Picture”

Shobhaa De, notoriously Bolly-harsh pop culture journalist says, “Ooh-la-la Silk Balan secures her place at every 2012 award function.”

The Times of India – India’s leading English daily newspaper and DNA – a popular English daily paper along with film critics Taran Adarsh and Komal Natha gave The Dirty Picture a four out of five rating. So what made them hold out for the clean five out of five stars?

You’ll have to check out the film this weekend and see if you agree. Report back!

Today, December 1st, is World AIDS Day and the Desi community is coming out in droves to to promote awareness surrounding HIV and AIDS. Where are they gathering exactly? Nowhere physically — but on Twitter, they’ve been extremely vocal.

Why is HIV/AIDS a big deal in the Desi community? Here are some stats from The Banyan Tree Project — a US based organization striving to end the silence and shame surrounding HIV/AIDS in Asian and Pacific Islander (A&PI) communities:

• 1 in 3 Asians and Pacific Islanders living with HIV don’t know it
• Over half of Pacific Islanders have never been tested for HIV
• Over two-thirds of Asians have never been tested for HIV
• 80% of A&PI women living with HIV got it from sex with a man (heterosexual contact)
• A&PI women are four times more likely to have an STD than an A&PI man
• A&PI women had the largest rate of increase in new HIV infections, higher than any other racial/ethnic group

Those are some scary stats. Hopefully with their star power, our favorite actors, musicians, and designers can help raise people’s awareness and open up conversations about HIV/AIDS. Check out how Desi celebrities showed their support:

Photo Credit: Getty

It’s been just about a year since Katrina Kaif’s dance to “Sheila Ki Jawani” in the film Tees Maar Khan brought about the resurgence of the classic Bollywood item number. Since TMK, films like Thank You, Bodyguard, Buddah Ho Gaya Tera Baap, Chalo Dilli, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Bin Bulaya Baarati, Double Dhamaal and Dum Maro Dum have all tried to recreate the success of Kat’s iconic number — but they all sort-of failed.

Bollywood’s resident masala king, Karan Johar, is the latest producer all set to try and top “Sheila Ki Jawani” in his upcoming film Agneepath. He has even cast Katrina to shake what her momma gave her in the item number titled “Chikni Chameli.” What’s going to make this this song going so special?

It’s not news that audiences go weak in the knees every time Katrina appears on screen. The buzz is being built around the “fact” that “Chinki Chameli” will be Kat’s first Marathi styled song — something that every major actress has in her repertoire. [Think - Madhuri Dixit (Sailaab, Anjaam), Aishwarya Rai (Shakti), Sonali Bendre (Aga Bai Arechya), Helen (Inkaar), Shilpa Shetty (Rishtey)]

Hold up. Reports of this being her first Maharashtrian song are wrong. What about her song in Bodyguard and “Sheila Ki Jawani” itself? Both have strong Marathi influences! Her moves may not have been particularly fisher-woman-esq, but the sentiments definitely boast the erotocism that lavani (Marathi folk music) is famous for. The intense, sweeping percussion beats are undeniably reminiscent of music played during the Ganapti festival in Maharashtra. Her costume in “Sheila” was a derivative of a Maharashtrian sari (it was just missing the part that covers her bosom). Her blouses even had that cute little bow in the cleavage.

So, is “Chikini Chameli” her first Marathi inspired song? Well, we don’t think so. But maybe it will be the most traditional. Times of India reported two different stories about the inspiration for Agneepath’s song. The first theory is that the track will be a cross between “Mungda” and “Dhagala Lagli Kal.” The second is that the Agneepath song will be a remake of “Kombadi Palali” from Jatra. The melody is to stay the same, but the lyrics would be in Hindi.

Check out the three songs and let us know which one you want to see Kat dance to.

“Mangda” Inkaar (1977)

“Kombdi Palali” Jatra (2005)

“Dhagala Lagli Kal” Bai Bai Man Moracha (2004)