Anushka Sharma, Ranveer Singh to shine at DFF

First it was Tom Cruise who created a frenzy when news got out that the Hollywood heartthrob will visit our shores for the world premiere of his film, “Mission Impossible 4: Ghost Protocol.”

And even though that news has yet to be confirmed though official channels, what can be revealed is Bollywood’s turn in the spotlight at the Dubai International Film Festival.

Kicking off the ‘Celebration of Indian Cinema’ segment will be the Yash Raj film, “Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl”, which will have its world premiere in Dubai.

Produced by the same filmmakers who gave us the exceptional “Band Baaja Baraat” last year, the film reprises the on-screen pairing of Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma, who are expected to walk the red carpet at Madinat Jumeirah on December 8.

The romcom depicts the story of suave and charismatic conman Ricky Bahl (Singh), who makes a living by deceiving women until he meets his match in the form of Sharma’s character.

In a statement, Dorothee Wenner, Consultant for the Subcontinent Programme, Dubai International Film Festival, said: “The premiere of “Ladies vs Ricky Bahl” is a scoop for DIFF, and will appeal not just to the expatriate community but also to Arabs who have a strong affinity for Bollywood films.

“The trio’s earlier film stood out for finely balancing Bollywood’s song-dance conventions with youthful sensibilities. “Ladies vs Ricky Bahl” is billed to be another wholesome entertainer that will appeal to all fans of Indian cinema.”

Nelson D’Souza, Head of Operations, Middle East and North Africa, Yash Raj Films, said: “We are delighted to continue our long-standing association with the Dubai International Film Festival, which has previously hosted the star-studded world premieres of Yash Raj films including “Kabul Express” and “Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year”. ”

Speculation is rife around the making of this new film, with Sharma’s and Singh’s rumoured affair being the talk of tinseltown since last year. Neither has ever confirmed their relationship.

However, the same year has also heard stories of innumerable fights between the duo, with Sharma having been also paired up with Shahid Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor, while Singh has been linked with newcomer Sonakshi Sinha.

Of late, the UAE has become a regular stop for Bollywood film premieres, with earlier this year seeing Salman Khan's “Ready” and Katrina Kaif’s “Mere Brother Ki Dulhan”, hold their first screenings in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, respectively. More recently was the star-studded red carpet event of “Ra.One”, which saw Shah Rukh Khan, Arjun Rampal and Kareena Kapoor walk the red carpet on October 24 in the city.

The eighth edition of DIFF will run from December 7 until 14.

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