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Economy of style
Chaar Baj gaye lekin party abhi baaki hai…., the song from the movie F.A.L.T.U. mind you isn't faltu. Listen to it, you would realise the song epitomises the present day young party hopping generation. A generation, which gives a damn to recession, increase in the rate of interests, dwindling economy, share markets' ups ands downs, none of their business! But when it comes to fine tuning themselves from head to toe in designer clothes, glasses, belts, bags, footwear, nose ring, toe ring, watches to filthy expensive inner wears, the young blood is ready to pay whatever it costs. The Gen next this is the generation that survives on pocket money, courtesy a doting Mommy or Daddy or for the more self sufficient summer and winter jobs here and there. We talk to the youngsters who ask us what is the big deal is about spending Rs 20,000 a month on beauty care & more. Average damage (per month) No compromise on brands Vebhav adaan, Aakriti Kakkar and Deepanshu Bhatla engineering students Shop till you drop Deepika Puri GNIMT, Ludhiana 21 years What's the big deal? Manavjot Kaur, a law student, Get smarter! Amanjot Singh, BBA student, Ludhiana
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Following Gandhi
Be the change you want to see in the world, said Mahatma Gandhi. That's what Henrik Valeur, Danish architect-urbanist, awarded the prestigious Golden Lion at the Architecture Biennale in Venice, 2006, practices and preaches.
Having lived and worked as an architect in various cities around the world, Valeur came for Le Corbusier Memorial Lecture in Chandigarh in October 2010 and made the city his home ever since. A visiting faculty at Chandigarh College of Architecture till sometime back, working as a consultant for the new master plan of Chandigarh and involved with various project proposals with a local NGO, Valeur feels passionately for the future of the city. "Chandigarh is planned as a perfect city. Most interesting is how nature has been integrated in the city," shares Valeur. It's harmony with nature and amongst the city folks, which Valeur advocates, "The city is lovely place to live in, but the sad part is that there is hardly any interaction between people. Cities are supposed to be the drivers of development, not only economic, but also cultural, social, scientific and technological. It has been like that since the ancient Indus Valley civilisation." Valeur implores city folks to come out of their shells - the cars, the fenced houses - and take part in the development of the city together. Actively involved with Eco and Agro Resource Management, a local NGO, he has some valuable suggestions. "Community kitchen gardens, making bicycle paths within sectors and developing Le Corbusier 'master buildings' into tourist attractions are some of the steps that can bring about the positive change that's needed," says Valeur. He sites the example of Bilbao in Northern Spain, which has the same number of international tourists per month as Chandigarh. Just because of the Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry. "Before that Bilbao had even fewer tourists than here. Chandigarh has, however, some buildings, which are of at least the same architectural importance as Spanish city like the Capitol Complex. Unfortunately, these buildings are currently deteriorating, while they are also becoming unfit for the initial purpose for which they were constructed. Why not offer the government, the administration and the High Court some new modern buildings in the city and then transform the Capitol Complex into a Le Corbusier World Culture Centre, which could increase the number of tourists coming to the city by 20 times while also opening up this marvellous area to the public," he offers. Six months in the city, an Indian food buff, Valeur is now a pro at making palak paneer, dals and pulao, courtesy an Indian cook book, but he still gets surprised by some things that we are so used to. "Students spend too much time playing volleyball, I love it too but sometimes I wonder if they know that playing the game is not their primary vocation." He is also startled when people who are usually nice to him seem offended when they see him on a bike, which he uses to commute around the city. "I fail to understand why is it so. In Copenhagen, my hometown, which is pretty much an advanced city, a third of the population goes to work on bikes, which is good for one's health as well as environment," he says. What a pity, someone so gifted and passionately involved with the future of our country has not been paid his dues for all his efforts! Valeur is due to leave Chandigarh in a week's time but he wants to return to offer his services as he thinks, "The future of this country is an integral part of our world's future!"
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Men & mane matters!
Are you sick with the same haircut that you have sported since years? And are you looking for someone to guide you on the latest men's hairstyles? Here are a few hip, rugged, intelligent and sexy pointers. Gone are the days when men preferred sober hairstyles with their hair well-oiled and set in clean parts. Youngsters today are more open to trying out the latest trends. Textured fronts
Mohawk The Mohawk cut is stylish and has become exceedingly trendy, thanks to the likes of David Beckham, David Villa, Colin Ferrel and Christiano Ronaldo. For guys who wish to flaunt a Mohawk without wanting to look exceedingly dramatic, the short and spiky Mohawk is the best bet. Rather it's bigger variant, the Faux Hawk, is also popular. Trimming the sides barring a strip of hair 2-3 inches long in the centre, and then spiking and twisting would give you the different look you had been longing for. However, if you want to stand out and make a statement then opt for longer hair in the centre, nearly 4-5 inches and style them into a fan using mousse or gel. Dreadlocks Want to go beyond bad boy spikes and crazy faux hawks, and create your own signature style? Then there is no cooler style than the mod and mean dreads. Immortalised by icons like Bob Marley and Sonny Sandoval, dreadlocks are definitely back in vogue from the Rasta days. "I always wanted dreadlocks and I finally have them. I am a drummer and dreadlocks help me stand out during performances. I did not shampoo or comb my hair for a year-and-a-half just to get these locks but it was worth it," announces Jonathan, drummer for a local band, flaunting his locks. Buzz Cut/Fade Cut Sported by Jason Statham, Justin Timberlake and David Beckham, the buzz cut is fast gaining popularity among youngsters as well as older men with receding hairlines. "The tonsured look is low on maintenance as it is a no-fuss hairstyle. I don't have to worry about how my hair look and moreover it complements my stubble," says Suchet, a journalism student at PU. Previously donned mostly by military men, hair is cut using a trimmer to about a quarter-of-an-inch all around the head. The Frodo Cut Popularised by Elijah wood in 'The Lord of the Rings' the cut is becoming exceedingly common among college-goers. "I love to see my hair grow longer day by day. All my favourite musicians have long hair and that is the biggest reason why I love the long unkempt look. I was never allowed to do so during my school days but now it is pretty cool. It has been nine months since I last visited a salon," says Mihir Raina, a city-based guitarist for the band Area 231. The style works best with fairly long hair that are dense and have natural curls. Don't comb your hair after stepping out of the shower to naturally get this look. Judge well "One should take into consideration both the hair type as well as the facial features before trying for a dramatic makeover. Your hair should do justice to your overall personality otherwise the chic look one longs for would remain a distant dream. Using the right hair products is also important," suggests Ali. Bieber's hair bid passes $12,000 n
London, March 3 (IANS) Teen sensation Justin Bieber's hair has reportedly become a hot item on auction website eBay.com as bids pass $12,000. n
The pop superstar had cut his famous hair last month and he is offering his locks to various charities in an effort to help them raise money, reports
contactmusic.com. n Bieber had handed his locks to chat show host Ellen DeGeneres, when he appeared on his show. |
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Stars galore at Comedy Circus party Sony TV’s bash to celebrate four successful years of their show Comedy Circus as well as the screening of the first episode of the new season-Comedy Ke Tansen at a lounge in Mumbai was a night to remember. Most contestants of Comedy Ke Tansen including singers Raja Hassan, Shibani Kashyap, rapper Hard Kaur and Sungandha Mishra were present. Comedians spotted at the party were Sudesh Lahiri, Bharti Singh, VIP and many more. Actresses Anjum Farookhi and Preeti Amin also made their presence felt while host Soumya Tandon looked radiant in a short blue dress. Besides the contestants the Sasural Genda Phool team-Jay Soni, Ragini Khanna and Pooja Kanwal were seen having a good time. Ragini kept here look simple by sporting a white shirt with jeans. The other popular faces from the small screen seen enjoying the party were actresses Parvati Sehgal and Sayantani Ghosh.
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Ladies in Red
Sibling spat Ekta Kapoor and Tusshar Kapoor are appearing together on Koffee with Karan. Ekta expressed her displeasure over Tusshar's apparent fondness for his attractive co-star in Shor in The City, Radhika Apte. Nobody cares, really! It will be something if any girl can fall for Tusshar! Addict Shraddha Kapoor loves all things fashionable. She buys plenty of stuff from FashionandYou at great discounts. She is into Indian and international designers and brands and has a weakness for shoes.
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Chhote Ustad
India's ICC World Cup win after as many as 28 years has left everyone ecstatic. Ustad Mazhar Ali Khan and Ustad Jawaad Ali Khan, classical singers belonging to the Patiala Gharana and descendents of Padama Bhushan Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, are no exception to the national euphoria.
In Chandigarh on Sunday to perform at Triveni Sangeet Sabha's fourth jugulbandi, sponsored by Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi, the duo opened up on what it means to carry a legacy forward. "Life is a constant struggle for artistes and even more as patrons of art, kings are no more," says Ustad Jawaad Ali Khan. But even more difficult than that is the audiences' expectation to hear music to the level of their grandfather Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan. "It is challenging to match him, but, by God's grace, we haven't disappointed our listeners ever," says Ustad Mazhar Ali Khan. Celebrated around the world for their command over and control over swara and laya, all this duo asks for is that they sing in 'sur' whenever on stage. Regular with their riyaz, they ensure the dignity that their inheritance deserves even if it means compromising a lot of other things. "Many times, we get offers to sing a Punjabi song or a ghazal, but we stick to the legacy we carry," shares Ustad Jawaad Ali Khan. Classical music is the root of all other forms of music, and to make any music flourish, it is important to keep roots healthy, they say. Confident of Patiala Gharana's future, Ustad Mazhar Ali Khan says, "Some of the young singers are really working hard and doing really well and but there are very few." "It's heartening to see westerners taking interest in classical music. Now we have Dhrupad being taught in Italy. If India remains indifferent to its classical legacy, in no time we will have to import it from abroad," says concerned Ustad Jawaad. The concern which is topmost in their mind is exposing the young to classical music. "We are in favour of all kinds of music but we do need the younger lot to know what classical music is," says Ustad Mazhar Ali Khan. They hold the media responsible for classical music not getting the glory it deserves. "Why is classical music stashed away from prime time," questions Ustad Jawaad. "Let it also rub shoulders with Munnis and Sheelas and let the audience make their choice," he offers. Pleased at technology making music accessible around the world, Ustad Mazhar says, "Youtube is doing great in promoting music. Just write raag Malkauns, a click and one can gets to see the raag by 100 singers from different times." "There might be endless software that replicate ragas but to learn one needs to be face to face with a guru," says Ustad Jawaad. Back to the topic of the day, "India's win has left us elated. Dhoni performed like a true leader, played the best game of the whole tournament last night," says Ustad Mazhar Ali Khan. And, we agree! Expose the young to classical and popular music alike, say custodians of Patiala gharana Ustad Jawaad Ali Khan and Ustad Mazhar Ali Khan
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Future Shot
With health experts sharing reports of ill affects of technology on health, a gadget that promises health benefits would definitely make you look up and notice. Among the latest entries companies like Samsung offers customers an experience in digital technology, which is 'health-wise'.
Sounds healthy, but it requires an up close and personal experience! However, other things like Samsung's Purista Plus series combines breakthrough innovation like VirusDoctor with SPI (S-Plasma ion) technology that eliminates more than 99 per cent of harmful micro organisms including SARS and H1N1 to guarantee contamination-free indoor air. The answer- SPI technology has been proven as the most effective purification technology, as it generates activated hydrogen and oxygen ions which transform toxins from the air into harmless water vapour while covering a larger area compared to other technologies thus creating a good, clean, healthy environment. Lastly, the company's internationally patented technology Ceramic Enamel used in the Samsung Microwave ovens produces less oxidation which helps retain significantly greater amounts of vitamin C and F (an essential fatty acid that helps reduce cholesterol and blood pressure) than food cooked in conventional microwave ovens. (Verma is a documentary filmmaker ) |
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Relax your body and mind
Renee Singh Highly motivated people overcome setbacks injuries and barriers because their motivation carries then though their rough spots. Motivation is the drive towards goals. But stress if accumulated works against motivation. Experiencing too much stress corrodes our happiness. Some people say they work better under stress but they don't seem to realise that they are heading for a burn out. High performance is only achieved by people who have focus and direction and a powerful sense of meaning in their work. In order to keep this level going such people see to it that stress stays away from them by working on them at a certain pace. Stress detracts from the energy and stamina that it takes to maintain a high level of motivation. TECHNIQUES nBody - to - Mind This is called Progressive Relaxation. This is physical relaxation involving alternately tensing then relaxing major muscle groups in the body. n Mind - to - BodyThis involves breathing practices. A variety of breathing practices work towards achieving relaxation. Deep breathing reduces tension from the body. You should practice it for 10 minutes in the day n ImageryVisualisation of a lake or a calm scenic view will relax the mind. n BiofeedbackThis is a feedback technique that involves monitoring the heart rate and focusing on lowering the rate of the heart. I the category of relaxation methods, Mind to Muscle relaxation is the most popular way as here we use all the constructive and creative faculties of the mind to de-stress. We reduce the stimulation of the mind. n Reducing stimulation of the brainThis produces a mental state of quiet and calm. Once we are here we learn to completely relax and whatever we want to do in life as far as our performance is concerned happens just naturally. Quiet mind always creates a state of physical relaxation. Sometimes we overlook our stress levels until they seem to reach an optimum level but chronic stress affects the quality of life. So the symptoms must be checked when we start having headaches, sleeping problems nervousness and anxiety. They detract from a person's sense of enjoyment and wellbeing. So beat the stress, with good technique and perform at your highest capability. (Singh is a Chandigarh-based
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A new UK study has found that a mother's happiness in her partnership is more important to the child than the father's. The findings are based on a sample of 6,441 women, 5,384 men and 1,268 young people. The Understanding Society research examined the relationships between married or cohabiting partners, and relationships between parents and their children. Overall, 60 per cent of young people said they were 'completely satisfied' with their family situation but in families where the child's mother is unhappy in her partnership, only 55 percent of young people said they were 'completely happy' with their family situation - compared with 73 percent of young people whose mothers are 'perfectly happy' in their relationships. Prof John Ermisch, Maria Iacovou, and Alexandra Skew from the Institute for Social and Economic Research found that the happiest children are those living with two parents - either biological or step - with no younger siblings, who don’t quarrel with their parents regularly, who eat at least three evening meals per week with their family and whose mother is happy in her own relationship. Only 28 per cent of children who quarrel more than once a week with their parents, and don't discuss important matters with their parents are happy with their families. — ANI
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Stars galore at Comedy Circus party
Sony TV’s bash to celebrate four successful years of their show Comedy Circus as well as the screening of the first episode of the new season-Comedy Ke Tansen at a lounge in Mumbai was a night to remember. Most contestants of Comedy Ke Tansen including singers Raja Hassan, Shibani Kashyap, rapper Hard Kaur and Sungandha Mishra were present. Comedians spotted at the party were Sudesh Lahiri, Bharti Singh, VIP and many more. Actresses Anjum Farookhi and Preeti Amin also made their presence felt while host Soumya Tandon looked radiant in a short blue dress. Besides the contestants the Sasural Genda Phool team-Jay Soni, Ragini Khanna and Pooja Kanwal were seen having a good time. Ragini kept here look simple by sporting a white shirt with jeans. The other popular faces from the small screen seen enjoying the party were actresses Parvati Sehgal and Sayantani Ghosh.
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Mahi Re Mahi
Opposites attract Both are extremes in their behaviour yet they love each other. Even the audiences love this sweet Jodi as they supported Ishaan's one sided love for Suhana, then wanted her to realise he was her one true love. And now they just want them to stay happily married through their true innocence love and crackling chemistry.
Colour No bar
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A curious mix…
Actor Kulraj Randhawa is 'experimental' when it comes to what she reads Mona A sucker for books is how Kulraj Randhawa, actor, describes herself. When it comes to genres, 'experimental' is her type.
“The History is a very informative read. Heard about our cultural roots from grandparents. But the book gives an in depth understanding of our inheritance,” says Kulraj. Is she a Khushwant Singh fan? "Well, I would say I have read only his selective works. No doubt he is a master with words but I am afraid I am not fond of all the themes he writes on," says Kulraj. Back to The History, "It is the most amazing journey into times of yore and is still accessible to commoner," says Kulraj. Fiction, books on psychology and naturopathy are something that Kulraj loves to read. “Naturopathy is all our Dadima ke nuskhe that we no more have much access to. I read books on naturopathy and get answers to many day to problems.” Her favourite naturopath? Dr James A Duke.
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Beat it
Song: Challa Tell me one person who hasn't heard the song. And if you haven't, you do not know what music is. Challa is one Punjabi track that has maximum versions. The song has everything that makes it a cult song. To start with lyrics, unbeatable, touching and very rooted. No other singer but Gurdas Maan could have sung this song. The song has small couplets, which Gurdas Maan keeps improvising at various live stage performances. The essence however remains the same. The track highlights the culture of Punjab. The remixed version is good, but if you have heard the original, you would not like any other version of it. Folk instruments used lift the song to a higher level. (As told to Jasmine Singh) |
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The year ahead
As per the Indian Calendar, the New Samvat 2068 begins today. Your basic number 4 repeats three times and coincides with that of 2011. The date, the month and total number of 2011-all are 4. This number will play a significant role in the future. You may make long-term investments. Do so only on the first day of New Year i.e. today. Begin looking for a life partner. If already a couple, addition in the family is expected. There's a good chance of promotion, no hindrance in going abroad. A period of romance begins today.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: The Fool infuses you with courage. If a family member is not cooperating, refrain from arguing. Find ways to express your creativity & emotions. Your personal interests are likely to be stagnant. Focus on health, meditation and yoga. Tarot message: Don't try to end all deadlocks in one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25
TAURUS: Ten of pentacles is good for relationship and romance. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you enhance your reputation. Strange undercurrents at home may give rise to all sorts of drama. Women should not hesitate to shop around for a better deal. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28 GEMINI: The karmic Wheel of Fortune turns in your favour. Do not put up with any pain; visit a doctor before it gets too late. Get a good night's sleep and cancel the late night party. Trust your intuitions. Beware of strangers. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 32. CANCER: The Prince of Pentacles infuses financial stability. Libra hosts will find appreciation for their culinary talents. Delays can be expected today. Relax; things will clear up by evening. A nice surprise awaits you. Love stars twinkle. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43. LEO:Like The Knight of Cups, you are emotional in personal relationships and graceful on social occasions. You are likely to find an ideal partner. A guest is expected in the evening. A new love affair will put you in a romantic frame of mind. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47. VIRGO: Do not get sucked into overtime. Plan some fun and relaxation. The Magus brings change and travel. A brief business cum pleasure trip is just on the cards. A Leo friend is supportive. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44. LIBRA: The Ace of Swords pulls you in opposite directions. Do not overlook a chance meeting that may lead to future romance. Kick old habits and adopt a healthier life style. A celebration is on the cards. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future as you do so. Lucky colour: Fiery red. Magic number: 28. SCORPIO: Some very interesting and unusual people come into your sphere of business and money. Avoid new debts or excessive spending. Loved ones may not fully understand your daily needs. Tonight, rest and pamper the body. Do not overlook physician's advice. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 33. SAGITTARIUS: The Prince of Cups brings you to your truths, hopes and desires that you mask. You are good at getting people to express their opinions. Do not bottle up your emotions. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36. CAPRICORN: The Lovers facilitate you to be open and inspired by new ideas. A surprise phone call could put you back in touch with a friend. Youngsters should be capable of entertaining themselves and they will be best left alone. Tarot message: Do not be in a rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54. AQUARIUS: The Priestess infuses promise & commitment in personal relationships. Bring up the sensitive issues that everybody is skirting around. Today a long cherished dream may come true. A date with your lover will at last come up. Short cuts may misfire. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37. PISCES:
The Prince of Wands comes riding with a promise of power & energy. Lots of secrets and undercover scenarios can make for an interesting day. This should be a pleasantly sociable day. Taurean people support you. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56. |
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This is a crime. We never compromise on brands. What if we are not working, we have all the right to look good and enjoy life.
Tomorrow when we start earning, who knows we don't have time to spend. If our folks do not have a problem, we guess nobody else should. Besides, we know how to spend and save money. 
I would spend, spend and spend money on myself. It is important to look presentable, which comes at a price. I love my father for giving me the pocket money, and I don't waste it otherwise, I only shop for myself 
A good Louis Vitton Bag and a decent Tommy Hilfiger or Swatch watch does cost a good mount of money. For that matter, branded sneakers and clothes are also cost a lot. Now that everything is soo…. expensive, what is the big deal in spending on it. You can't just say youngsters spend too much money or they are spendthrifts- we are in sync with time and fashion, simple!
Everything is so expensive, and we can't help it. I have to look my best, I have to hang out with friends, and this is expensive affair. I have figured out the best thing is to get smarter, so, I help my father in work and also get a good pocket money! Problem solved. I don't know how but I end up spending a lot of money on clothes and eating out, nearly Rs 15,000 a month!
This style has gained immense popularity off late. It features a front (read bangs for men) that's brushed forward on to the forehead and textured for an irrelevant feel, with the back and sides remaining either short or long. "People tell me that my hairdo really suits me. I got it done sometime back and have it ever since. I love it because it's wacky and sets me apart," says Yashwant, an animator at Mad Art. "This is a very common hairstyles sported by youngsters these days. We have college-goers coming here every now and then asking for a similar haircut, and we oblige them," adds Ali, hairstylist, Tress Lounge.
Highlighted on a pamphlet was, 'Did you know that owning Samsung refrigerators could help you waste less? Curiosity gets the better off me. I want to know all and so do you! The pamphlet further had queries, which needed to be settled. 'Having to throw away food because it goes bad before it can be eaten is a habit that consumers can avoid. How many times have you stocked your full size refrigerator only to throw stuff away because it doesn't stay fresh long enough?' The answers-Refrigerator lineup comprises of models that are incorporated with Samsung's 'Cool Pack' in the freezer section, and the advanced Moisture Control Technology in the refrigerator, enables air to circulate whilst maintaining optimal humidity which helps retain the moisture content in vegetables, fruits and other natural products, keeping them rich in nutrients for a longer period of time, which in turn, helps keep your family healthier. 
We have seen evergreen jodis on the television like Mihir-Tulsi, Jai-Bani and numerous others, but in 2010 brought some fresh television jodis, already making waves among the television audiences. Here are some couples the audiences love to watch on the
telly.
This hot couple from Geet Hui Sabse Parayi has a huge fan following. They look good together irrespective of the fact that they are romancing, fighting or arguing. They share great chemistry. Their feelings and emotions are depicted via the hit song Mahi Re Mahi on the show which has a super connect with the audiences. Their chemistry and pairing is such a hit that the show is No 1 on Star One channel.
Don Dutta Patil falls in love with the not so beautiful Nakusha. Her love, care and respect for him loosens his harden heart and her loving nature brings back colours in his life. Later when he learns about her beauty secret, he can't stop loving her. — HRM
Their love story started with enemity, hate but slowly and gradually they understood their love for each other and their true feelings came to the fore. When they both parted ways recently, the audiences were hurting as much as them and soon the producers brought them together again. Both have done their best ways to woo each other with their love.
Just over with Where Eagles Dare by Alistair Stuart MacLean (he is her favourite author), it's The Illustrated History Of The Sikhs by Khushwant Singh, Kulraj is hooked on to.
Lisa Ray (April 4, 1972 at Toronto). Her high-profile career got her noticed by Indian filmmakers, but she refused many offers until the offbeat Kasoor. Deepa Mehta then cast her as the lead in a light-hearted romantic comedy Bollywood/Hollywood. She moved to London to study acting and concentrate on a serious career in the performing arts.