Vanishing cultures of Himachal
Changing values and practices are threatening Pahari language, music, dance and lifestyle. Unless the authorities wake up to document the unique heritage, it may pass into oblivion without a trace, writes Vijay K. Stokes


Pahari musical instruments (from left) pairs of harnshinga, karnal, kaori, dhol, nagara, bhana and sarnai. Photos by the writer

What a Gul
Ervell E. Menezes catches up with Gul Panag, who is making waves at IFFI with her film Summer 2007
Tall, slim and ravishingly beautiful, Gul Panag needs no introduction. Her brilliant portrayal of a medico in Summer 2007 made her a top priority personality at IFFI. So catching up with her just before the presentation of her film at the VIP lounge was top priority for me.

Add funk to your nails
A crazy hairdo and wacky attire are striking, but what about your nails? Colour them in funky shades too to make a statement, says British nail technician Jacqui Jefford. Jefford says this is the right time to wear crazy nails with loads of attitude and confidence. “I have seen people carrying crazy hair styles and dresses with confidence, but most of them play it safe with nail colours. This is the right time to add funk to your nails and make a statement,” Jefford said.