South Africa: I'm Too Busy for Romance, Says Baby B

BOLLYWOOD heartthrob Abhishek Bach-chan is amazed at the growth of Durban since he last visited the city as a 14-year-old with his famous father, Amitabh, in 1990.

Bachchan, who is in Durban shooting scenes for the $170-million movie Dhoom 2, said he was hoping to extend his stay to take in some sightseeing.

"Since I haven't been on holiday for about eight years, I'm trying to stay an extra day after shooting, but we'll see how that goes," he said.

"It's wonderful to see all these big buildings and the massive construction that is taking place."

On the subject of romance, he said he was too busy working and had "no time for anyone special in my life".

He said the shooting schedule was hectic and his days began at 4.30am.

With him in the city are Hrithik Roshan, Rimmi Sen, childhood friend Uday Chopra and screen goddess Aishwarya Rai.

Sex siren Bipasha Basu, who also stars in the film, left Durban on Thursday.

In Dhoom 2, which will feature a host of action sequences, the stars will also be seen riding superbikes specially imported from Japan.

Shooting is taking place until the end of July in Howick, Oribi Gorge and central Durban.

The stars are tight-lipped about the plot, but according to producer Yash Chopra, the film will be bigger and more lavish than its predecessor, Doom.

Chopra said he was looking forward to dining at a local steakhouse.

"I'm not much of a party person, so the nightclub scene is not for me, but I'll be looking for some good food," he said.

Well-toned Roshan, who is starring with Rai for the first time, said it was fantastic working with the former Miss World.

The two will pair up again in the historical epic Akbar Jodha, to be shot in Rajasthan.

"It's been really hectic since we got here, but we are very comfortable, thanks to the fabulous hospitality by the Avalon Group. Especially the food, it's been really great," said Roshan.

The MD of the Avalon Group, AB Moosa, who is playing host to the stars, said he was honoured to work with Yash Raj Films.

Dhoom 2 is slated for release during Diwali.