Family business in the WEB!
Amitabh Bachchan shared the news of his daughter-in-law Aishwarya’s pregnancy on Twitter, but is it right to share too much personal information on social networking sites? 
Jasmine Singh

Holidaying in Brussels, a mocktail dress from Dubai, Mercedes sports model, short red dress, Harry’s new Saint Bernard, mothers-in-law new jewellery set, Sakshi’s new flat in Colaba (Mumbai), a new boss in the office…or Aishwarya Rai’s ‘oh finally’ pregnant news, whatever and wherever in the world happens, you will surely find it in the tweets!

No closely guarded secrets, no hushed whispers making rounds in the colony; Twitter is a place where nothing is a secret. At least for Amitabh Bachchan it isn’t! The actor put all rumours about Aishwarya Rai’s weight to rest by tweeting and also writing on his microblogging site: @SrBachchan: T 410 - NEWS NEWS NEWS !! I AM GOING TO BECOME A GRANDFATHER ... AISHWARYA EXPECTING ... SO HAPPY AND THRILLED!!!”

Thrilled Big B could not control his excitement and spilled it on the social networking site for which he also received a lot of flak! Why share your ‘inside’ news with the world? Why lay your emotions threadbare? Why tell the world what you have and what you saw? In the end, who is interested, by the way? We toss up the debate on using a social networking medium as your family mail!
jasmine@tribunemail.com

Be judicious

Like anything else, Twitter is also a tool, which should be used judiciously. I have been following Twitter, and trust me people blabber about all kinds of things on it. Some use it as a device to draw attention and get popular through uncanny tweets. I would use it to share information on snakes and photography; however, others might use it to share personal news. As far as privacy is concerned, it’s up to an individual to decide what to share and what not to. Big B has millions of fans and maybe he loves to share the news, at least. And it is not possible to send mails to all.
Capt Suresh Sharma, freelance photographer

No big deal

What is the big deal in Amitabh Bachchan sharing the good news with the world? He is an icon and his fans expect a slice from his life. This comes as a price a celebrity pays for being immensely popular, but why criticise Big B when everyone else does the same thing? Don’t people tweet about their personal lives, places they go in holidays, new phones they buy to just about everything? Twitter is a medium to express yourself; as long as someone is okay writing about their lives, it shouldn’t be an issue!
Jonita Doda, actor

Nothing wrong

I would never share any personal information on Twitter about my friends and family. Twitter is a medium to speak out your mind, to express views on certain issues, and not talking about stuffing the closet with new dresses or a new Chihuhaha! However, there is nothing wrong with what Big B has done. He is a regular blogger who has been sharing information with the rest of the world.
Jassi, Chandigarh anchor

All’s well

I think it is fine. Father-in-law is happy for his daughter-in-law, besides Big B blogs about other things happening in his life. But this must be his happiest moment and if he wants to share it with his fans, what's wrong in it? I wouldn’t mind sharing any good information with my fans as well. It feels nice.
Mahie Gill, actor

More to discuss

Celebrities normally tweet personal information, everything about their assignments, travel holidays…everything indeed. Not everyone is interested in it, people have a lot more to talk and discuss. I do share my happiness or concerns on Twitter, but nothing related to my family. Who would be interested in knowing about my family if they are non-celebrities!

Gavie Chahal, actor 

SUCCESS MANTRA
In the right frame
Mona

Naveen Gupta is a dynamic business leader who forayed into IT education in the year 2000 and later into animation and visual effects education with a major training brand, Frameboxx. Here he grew from a business partner to a master franchise and is currently the CEO.

From being a mechanical engineer to building India’s leading animation and visual effects training studio, Naveen has come a long way. In the journey over the years he has helped Frameboxx venture into many pioneering initiatives like the Incubation Centre, Frameflixx Awards and Clickboxx.tv for online training, among others. He is a firm believer of growth and innovation.

Apart from building a highly respectable team, Naveen was instrumental in building brand identities and alleviating the standards of computer graphics education as well as training in the country. As they say ‘Success is not a matter of chance’, there are no shortcuts to success and there is no substitute for hardwork. One needs to have concrete goals and the passion to achieve them. Here Naveen shares his success mantra.

Focus

The most important thing for anybody in life is to first visualise what one wants to achieve and everything else follows. One should be clear with one’s goals and targets.

Perseverance

If you firmly believe in your idea and dream, then all you have to do is take the plunge and not fear the obstacles that might come your way. Challenges will always be a part of life and it is all about how well you tackle them.

Believe in your team

Being able to identify the strengths of the team and empowering them with the right resources, so that they drive growth and take up initiatives on their own, is the work philosophy that we follow at Frameboxx.

Innovation

For success of any business, a dynamic approach is must. In the ever-growing market, one needs to innovate and reinforce strategies to build brand USP.

Aspire

A desire to do well and hold a positive attitude will surely bring success. 

mona@tribunemail.com

Kids’ PLAY
Want your children to be fair, co-operative, committed and responsible? Engage them in household chores
Mona

Kids cleaning the playroom, making tea for a mom just back from work, chopping salad for dinner or helping in shopping groceries? Might seem frivolous to some, but is indeed a great way to prepare your kids for larger responsibilities in life.

Helping out in household chores instills the much-needed life-skills. In today’s nuclear set up, it is needed more than ever before but sadly it is on the decline. “Kids need to be treated like pots and put in the fire to make them strong,” says Sheena Harjani, mother to nine-year-old Deveshi and five-year-old Khushmita. “Though my daughters are young, I ensure they clean their room, put away their clothes and help in other chores,” says this mom. Her daughters are appreciated in her friends’ circle, as they are well-behaved. “I feel that it’s in the childhood that one lays the foundation of a secure future. Instilling values and making them independent starts from the very beginning,” says Sheena, who runs Pitara for Kids, a social grooming workshop in Panchkula.

Enlisting kids’ help can start early. Even two or three year-olds can help put away toys and books, wipe up the mess or take laundry to the room. “These little acts give a sense of belonging to the kid,” says Punita Singh, a counsellor. “Studies are important and so is this. When children move out to a hostel or live on one’s own, these little things that they don’t know can create a lot of problems,” she says.

Shabnam Sharma, mother to two, Digvijay and Sharad, is happy that she taught her sons well in time. “Like it or not, kids have to move out and be on their own. My elder one is working in London and younger one is staying in a hostel in Hyderabad. By god’s grace they are managing pretty well,” smiles Shabnam. Helping at home, makes children responsible, disciplined and fair. They learn to value time. “Sadly, today, parents say it with pride that their girls don’t know a thing at home, but how to run a house is one thing that both boys as well as girls should know,” says sociologist Ranjay Vardhan.

When kids are assigned duties at home, they learn to manage time between study, work and play - make them part of the monthly budget, take them along shopping. It makes them financially aware. Shower praise on kids when they bring a glass of water for you next, see them flower into mature human beings.

mona@tribunemail.com

Dos /Don’ts Start early

Most toddlers love to do ‘something’. Make it a routine that they put away their toys, keep their books neatly and wipe the mess.

Show how to do it

Set an example. Don’t just say it but demonstrate as well. Also, don’t expect them to master tasks instantly. Guide gently where they falter.

Don’t nag or negotiate

Once you have assigned the responsibilities, let the kids become responsible for it. Don’t remind them time and again, and never do it for them.

Encourage the efforts

When your children make an effort to do chores at home, ensure you shower them with praise. 

A boring job can make you vulnerable to burn-out

Psychiatrists have said that having a boring job can leave you just as vulnerable to 'burn-out' than one which leaves you rushed off your feet. They believe there is a distinct category of "underchallenged" employees who end up finding they simply cannot take any more of the "monotonous and unstimulating" tasks that they are expected to perform.

Such people "have to cope with the disenchantment caused by feeling trapped in an occupational activity to which they are indifferent, which bores them and produces no gratification" the Telegraph quoted Jesus Montero-Marín, of the University of Zaragoza in Spain, as saying.

"These employees present a cynical attitude and are invaded by guilty feelings due to the ambivalence they feel for their work and by their desire for change." People working in administrative and service roles were most likely to be bored in their jobs, while men were more likely to suffer this type of burn-out than women. — ANI

PREVIOUS COLUMNS

Par Excellence

Putting-Grip & set up
June 21, 2011

Putting - Rhythm and speed control
June 14, 2011

Select your putter with care
June 7, 2011

The Art of Putting
May 31, 2011

The Three key clubs
May 24, 2011

The body turn
May 17, 2011

The long & shot of it
May 10, 2011

Follow through
May 3, 2011

Get the right plane
April 19, 2011

All about impact
April 12, 2011

Improve your ball flight
April 5, 2011

Putt your problems out
March 22, 2011

 

Par Excellence
Putting — Get the ball rolling
Jesse Grewal

One of the important objectives in 'Putting' is to get the ball rolling as soon as it leaves the face of the putter. The ball in some cases can be airborne for the first foot or could be skidding the first bit before beginning to roll. To understand the need for the ball to roll take a ball and throw it on the green. It would bounce a few times and then begin to roll. If we add some top spin or over spin to the ball it would hug the green as soon as it hits it and roll for a much longer distance. So putts hit with top spin hug the green and therefore stay on line and roll further. Players who leave their putts short generally have backspin on them which makes the ball lose speed quickly.

Top spin is created when the dynamic loft (loft of the putter at impact) is less than the rise angle of the stroke. During the putting stroke the ball is hit on the upswing and not at the bottom of the arc. To achieve this ball position in our stance is one or two balls left of our centre. The bottom of the arc is more or less in the centre and therefore the putter hits the ball when it is on the upward path. The optimum rise angle required is 3-4 degrees.

The loft of the putter can vary from 1 to 5 degrees. Traditional putters have 3-4 degrees of loft. With this kind of putter we have to de-loft the putter at impact ie reduce the loft. This is done by having the hands well ahead of the putter at impact. If we de-loft a 4 degree putter by 2 degrees we will have a dynamic loft of 2 degrees with a rise angle of 3-4 degrees which will impart top spin.

Take a tee and pace it in the butt end of the putter. At address it will be slightly closer to your left hand. On the backswing the right wrist hinges backwards very slightly to bring the tee closer to your left hand. Maintain this position through impact. At impact the tee will be closer to your left hand which is a 'de-lofted' putter (pictures 1, 2 and 3). If the tee moves backwards towards the right hand then we have added loft and would create backspin.

If one has a mallet style putter or a 'gel' or 'yes' putter with a loft of 2 degrees one does not need to de-loft the putter as the loft is less than the rise angle. The position or angle of the wrists has to be maintained from address to impact. Place a ball between the putter grip and the left wrist and make a stroke. The ball will make you maintain the same position of your wrists through the stroke (pictures 4, 5 and 6).

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently Director, National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

With a song in her heart
SD Sharma

It was 10 years back that the well-known folk and pop singer couple Subhash and Anjuman Goyal from Mansa in Punjab nudged their daughter Shipra to the world of singing as she performed in front of a large audience at Kalagram in Panchkula.

Now as she thrives in the limelight of her live performances with the likes of Mika, Labh Janjua the world over, she fondly remembers her first moment of glory. She took to the same stage at Kalagram on Sunday. She could only bow her head in all humility to the stage that gave her the wings.

Just 19 years of age, Shipra has already sung Punjabi boliyan with Mika Singh in the film Mitti and another duet song Aa mundeya for the film Kabaddi ikk mohaabat with Labh Janjua.

"I am singing two item songs for a film Hail Hitler, says Shipra.

She won hearts with her performances in South Africa and Ethiopia where she performed on the occasion of 150 years of Indians making South Africa their home. She has just come back from a tour of Thailand and Laos. She is also pursuing her graduation with a specialisation in Indian classical music from Hindu College, New Delhi.

Shipra has proved her versatility as she sings sufi, folk, pop, film numbers even has interest in Western music and dance. She does not stop at that as this youngster also leads a band Shipra Rockers in Delhi. "The foundation of my career in music was laid earlier in my childhood as my father Subhash Goyal a classical vocalist taught me the nuances of the art.

"I want to be a complete artist," says Shipra.

Heart Talk
Trust your heart
Parvesh Rana

I am suffering from anxiety neurosis for the last two years. I have a friend who is helping me but I feel she will exploit me in some way or the other. I don't trust anyone, do you think I can deal with it.

If your friend is helping you with your problem, you should be glad that you have someone to support you. Trust people and be open to those who lend a helping hand to you. At the same time, be cautious of saccharine sweet people.

This too shall pass

I am 21 years old and am attracted to an older man. I can't share my feelings with anyone. At the same time, I can't stop thinking about him.

This is a simple attraction and nothing else. You would get over it, don't worry.

Stop thinking about it and discuss it with someone close.

Girls in your age generally get attracted to older men but there is no point in taking it to your heart.

Trendsetter
Style is personal

Every person has a sense of style. Yet, there are only a few who'd attract a second glance or make heads turn. The magic could lie in tousled hair or it could lie in torn jeans! This week's face in the crowd is Anupreet Dhillon, a former student of MCM, Chandigarh.

Your sense of style is…

My sense of style depends on what I like. So the statement keeps changing. But there's one thing I stick to always and that is whatever you wear, you should be comfortable. I'm a very jeans and top kind of a person.

The latest addition to your wardrobe…

It's a little black dress from Versace.

Brand freak or street smart?

I am a brand freak

Choose one: Sporty, glamorous or chic

It would have to be chic.

Favourite style icon?

I admire Angelina Jolie for who she is and what she wears and how she carries herself.

Who's the worst dressed celebrity around?

Rakhi Sawant. I think Kiran Rao is a close second.

One fashion trend you don't understand…

When boys team up a white kurta with blue jeans.

Your take on accessories

Accessories undoubtedly add to your personality. They help you look trendy and funky at the same time. And it depends how you carry your accessories. But minimum is the best.

One thing that boosts your confidence

A sense of belief in your style and personality. If you know how to carry whatever you are wearing, you can never go wrong.

(As told to Manpriya Khurana)

If you think you too fit the profile, get in touch with us at lifestyletribune@gmail.com.

Ethnic chic, it is the tribal prints which are creating quite a stir this season
A tribal f(l)are
Deepali Sagar

The monsoon season is meant to wear your attitude and flaunt a sexy and toned body. Skirt is one piece of attire that you would definitely want to try on in summer, regardless of your figure.

Well, this summer fashion houses have come up with such a trendy skirts that would suit almost any figure and body. They are something that makes you different in a good modest way.

The tribal prints are creating quite a stir. "A tribal print is a perfectly modern take on a classic look and looks great on all body shapes. All you have to do it pair it with the correct top and nice tribal jewellery, those looks chic with the skirts," says Rajni Sinha, store manager Fabindia.

The tribal skirts have basically hailed from states like Rajasthan, Karnataka and Gujarat. "Earlier these skirts used have heavy antique embroidery on cotton. But in today's fast pacing world it's impossible to wear them. So a more chic and trendy look has been added to these skirts by lessening the embroidery and increasing the motifs and designs," says Shristi Kaul, store manager, Global Desi, DT Mall. Be it chic or classy, tribal skirts serve both the purposes. These skirts are available in both long and short length. These skirts are not bland but promise to fill your wardrobe with rich and vibrant colours. "One can explore vivid colour combinations. You can chose from subtle colours that support and steady you or strong colours that make you feel mysterious and dangerous," says Priya Verma, store manager, Anokhi, Sector 7, Chandigarh.

These can be worn as both formal and casual wear. "With a wide variety of colours and beautiful designs, these skirts serve well for both office as well as daily use. Moreover, the cotton material makes them perfect for this season," says Shristi.

"Team these skirts with either kurtis or spaghetti and wear on some street chic jewellery and you can create your own ethnic as well as trendy look," quips Priya. 

Styling tips

n Pair it with white tank top and flat sandals for an easy day out this summer.

n Wear a black blazer and heels and you are ready for a night party.

n Team them with tights and shoe boots also look good.

n Wear long chains and bangles in mix and match contrast.

n Kurtis and spaghettis work wonders with these skirts. 

Like father like son
Men are more likely to cheat on their wives if their fathers were unfaithful, a new study has found.

The study, carried out by a team led by Jan Havlicek of Charles University in Prague, has suggested that cheating does run in the family, at least as far as men are concerned.

It concludes that, while men and women both had affairs, men were more likely to stray if their fathers had been unfaithful as they were growing up. However, women were not affected in the same way by their mothers' infidelity.

Havlicek said as boys grew up by observing the world around them what was appropriate and what they could get away with. Their father was an obvious example to follow for good or for bad.

For their study, the researchers recruited 86 couples. They questioned the men and women individually and in confidence about their relationships, their attitudes towards sex, their family backgrounds and their infidelities.

The study backs the idea that men's affairs are more motivated by sex then women's. It found that whether or not a man was satisfied and happy in his main relationship had no effect on the likelihood that he would stray.

Men usually have affairs because they want sex and a greater number of sexual partners, not because they are fed up with their wives, Havlicek said, adding women were likely to stray if they were dissatisfied with their relationship. He believes women have affairs to find a new partner.

"It might be best to stay in your relationship because, in some cases, it's better to have someone who's not perfect than to be alone, particularly when you've children. Many of the women we interviewed said that's just what they were doing," he said. — PTI

Lean gene not enough

Lower body fat level may not always lower your risk for heart disease and diabetes, researchers say.

Douglas P Kiel and David Karasik, researchers at Harvard Medical School, identified a gene linked with less body fat, but also with a higher risk of 'type 2' diabetes and heart disease, examples of so-called "metabolic diseases".

"We've uncovered a truly fascinating genetic story and, when we found the effect of this gene, we were very intrigued by the unexpected finding," says Kiel, senior scientist and professor of medicine at Harvard.

"People, particularly men, with a specific form of the gene are both more likely to have lower percent body fat, but also to develop heart disease and type 2 diabetes," he said. All observations were more pronounced in men than in women. — IANS

Astro Turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: Your earning power could kick into high gear. Lookout for money making opportunities. Singles will attract someone new. An intimate connection with that special someone is worth pursuing, no matter how difficult it will be. Tarot Message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky Colour: Deep Red Magic Number: 46

TAURUS: A restless atmosphere could pervade the morning. You can achieve quite a lot once you get going. Follow through on unfinished projects. Don't let an opportunity pass you by as there may be untold benefits awaiting you. Tarot Message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky Colour: Pink Magic Number: 25.

GEMINI: Stick to your work and avoid new territory because this is not a day for making decisions. A journey can put you in emotional turmoil. These are unfounded fears. Let go of them and you will start to feel motivated. Tarot Message: Prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky Colour: Yellow. Magic Number: 39

CANCER: Nothing will seem too much and you are sure to help out those around you. Be careful not to over commit yourself. The emphasis is on fun, frolic and social activities. Your effort will not go unnoticed by superiors.

Tarot Message: Do not transact in uncertain matters. Lucky Colour: Sky Blue. Magic Number: 48.

LEO: Thoroughness will be your key to success. Avoid getting caught up in conversations that divert you from your course. Otherwise, you can chat away the time you have for work. There will be opportunities to show off your artistic flare. Tarot Message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky Colour: Peacock Green. Magic Number: 63

VIRGO: Conflict between your private and professional life can test your abilities. Strong views on politics or the environment might entice you to get up and speak at a public forum. Don't be shy. This could lead to bigger and better things. Tarot Message: Emphasis on spiritual needs Lucky Colour: Metallic Grey. Magic Number: 28

LIBRA: Your relationship can be shaken. Start worrying about what can go wrong. A temptation to overindulge might not be good for you. At work, do not expect co-operation from others. A small get together at home is expected. Tarot Message: Grab a new learning opportunity. Lucky Colour: Turquoise Magic Number: 56

SCORPIO: Follow a good routine of exercise up to the mark with health matters. Focus on the little thing that need to be done. You are probably better off at home tonight. Take things step-by-step. Tarot Message: Plan your life to avoid the in build delays that comes your way. Lucky Colour: Peach Magic Number: 27

SAGITTARIUS: You could have accidents simply because you forget to look before you leap. Do be careful with your financial situation. Working women must take complete rest today. Students: bury your nose in books. Be logical in your thoughts. Tarot Message: Minor difficulties at work. Lucky Colour: Rainbow Pastels. Magic Number: 30

CAPRICORN: Flattery, charm and a willingness to be bold will bring success. New people are moving into your sphere of relationships. Push routine to one side. You might fall madly in love during travel or attendance at a conference. Tarot Message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky Colour: Saffron. Magic Number: 50

AQUARIUS: Single? enjoy your dreams instead. Still, you might be about to meet that someone special. A great dayto socialise once you get going. Do your best to be welcomed warmly. Household affairs continue smoothlyTarot Message: Accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky Colour: Silver Grey Magic Number: 44

PISCES: The day promises self-confidence so, trust your instincts today. Opportunities to socialize and mix with people will put many choices in your path. Your partner could need your support and upset your own plans for the day. Tarot Message: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky Colour: Sea Green. Magic Number: 35 

Chatter Box
Sister concern 

Reality TV star Kim Kardashian says her engagement to Kris Humphries means there is less pressure on her elder sister Kourtney to get married.

The 30-year-old socialite, who is planning her wedding to Humphries, admits her elder sibling is particularly pleased about the nuptials because the focus is no longer on her relationship with Scott Disick. "Kourtney doesn't like all the big weddings and big ring thing so she said she's been relieved of a lot of pressure because my mom and everyone was pressuring her and Scott to get married," said Kim. Kim, who has been dating Humphries for six months will adopt his surname privately but is still unsure what to do in her professional life.

"I think at home and privately for sure I'll change my name. A lot of my brands have Kardashian in them. So maybe I'll make it Kim Kardashian-Humphries. I think I will always have Kardashian just for work. But at home it'll be Humphries." —PTI 

Mistaken identity

Colors' Na Aana Is Desh Laado has been quite dramatic in the last few weeks, but there is more drama in store. In the upcoming episodes Bhanupratap (Amar Verma) sent goons to kill Ammaji's son in law, who he doesn't know is his own son Shaurya. When his goons shoot Shaurya, the bullet accidentally hits Ammaji (Meghna Malik), who is also looking out for Diya (Simran Kaur) and Shaurya (Varun Kapoor).

What a loss!

Producer JD Majethia had lot of hopes from his new show Zee's Chhoti Si Zindagi but low TRPs have troubled him a lot. Now more trouble has come his way as the set of the show was demolished when the BMC claimed it was an illegal construction. The production unit was last heard shifting location to a new venue. Majethia has tried to spice up the show with popular actors Mihir and Maninee Misra, Ashish Kaul and Shweta Gautam so we hope it works for his sake.

Jack of many trades

Actor Vikrant Massey might have made a name as a talented actor with his stint in Balika Vadhu and currently as Murli in Imagine's Baba Aiso Varr Dhoondo, but he has other talents too. He is a great dancer and has learnt dance with Shaimak Davar for over three years. We hope to see him at a television award function soon or perhaps a dance reality show. 

Get well soon!

Ekta TiwariDakssh Ajit Singh aka Gaurav from Star Plus' Maryaada is down with malaria and as shooting demands he wasn't able to take few days off to rest. Ekta Tiwari aka Radha of Star Plus' Tere Mere Sapne too suffered from viral infection, low blood pressure and hypertension. The incessant shooting and no break, took a toll on her health and her condition worsened when she got wet in the rains. Though she was hospitalised for a day, she is recuperating. 

Act of generosity

Gregarious Farah Khan is busy these days what with shooting two reality shows back to back. She is judging the ultimate dance reality show Just Dance on Star Plus and Sony's Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega. Maybe it was the interaction with various types of people and contestants that brought out her generous spirit. Farah surprised one and all on the sets of Entertainment Ke Liye, when she bought designer bags for the crew of the show. 

Star Track
Failure of Munnabhai MBBS would have ended my career: Arshad

Arshad Warsi
Past present: Arshad Warsi

Bollywood actor Arshad Warsi, who shot to fame after playing the role of the lovable goon Circuit in Munnabhai MBBS, feels failure of the film would have finished his career. Arshad, who made his debut under Amitabh Bachchan's production company ABCL's Tere Mere Sapne in 1996, was unable to make a mark for himself till Raju Hirani's Munnabhai MBBS came to give a boost to his fledging career.

"If one looks (only) at a role forget the character of Circuit and just look at that person...he is just a stupid role...there is nothing. He is a goon, side kick...he is someone who stands behind the hero. If that film wouldn't have worked, I would have been finished...over," Arshad said. "It was Raju's (Hirani) sheer talent of being a good director that's it. He is really talented, he works hard. He works for two-and-half years on a script," he said.

"I feel luck does play a huge factor role in your life. I feel luck comes first and then talent. There are so many talented actors who are definitely lacking luck and there are many mediocre actors who are really lucky. I am surviving on pure talent. I would be wrong if I say I am not been lucky...I have been lucky. Luck quotient has been tiny. I wish it was more," he added.

Munnabhai series follows the comic adventures of Munna Bhai or Murli Prasad Sharma played by Sanjay Dutt and his sidekick, Circuit or Cirkeshwar, essayed by Arshad. The actor will be seen along with Dutt in the third film of the Munna Bhai series - Munnabhai Chale Amerika - after Munna Bhai MBBS (2003) and Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006). The third film, which deals with the adventures of the two protagonists in America, is expected to release in 2012. — PTI

Roll of honour

Chillar Party may boast of biggies like Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor but Smile Foundation's film I am Kalam has none other than the Missile Man of India, former Indian President Dr. A P J Kalam as its inspiration. The fun and family entertainer has a social message and just like the feel of the film, the lead child actor Harsh Mayar has also had a story of grit and determination.

The actor Harsh, who is a slum kid from Delhi was first rejected by the makers of Chillar Party because he was a misfit for the rather urbane film. Needless to say, Harsh was disappointed by the rejection and returned to Delhi little knowing what was in store for him. He got selected for I Am Kalam. Not just that, he got an opportunity to meet A P J Kalam himself and even complimented the President for his hairstyle! The little boy left the great Kalam himself impressed.

Like it's said, it all happens for the best and being rejected for Chillar Party proved lucky for Harsh since he won the National Award for the film in the Child Actor category. The film is fast becoming a movement... The story is about Chhotu who in spite of abject poverty has an inventive mind and a never say die spirit. (There are 60 million Chhotus in India who are unfortunately involved in Child labour but dream of being educated.)

The film follows a fable like narrative, somewhat like The Prince and the Pauper friendship which adds to its universal appeal. It's also inspired from a true story.

Other than the Best Actor in Child Artiste Category, the film has won 12 national and international awards, including the best feature film in the Lucas International Film Festival (Germany), the Don Quixote Prize of the International Cine Club Federations (Germany), Young Jury Award at the International Film Festival of India in Goa; the Audience Favourite Award at the Barbican London Children's Film Festival Award; a Special Diploma for the Best Actor Work at Minsk International Film Festival Listapadzik; and the Best Debutant Director Award at the Chalachitra Film Society, Kerela. The film has also received a Special Mention at the Cinekid International Film Festival in Amsterdam and the Ale Kino International Film Festival in Poland, for its attempt to disseminate an important social message.— HRM 

Rascals to enter this festive season 

Sanjay Dutt Productions Pvt Ltd and Rupali Aum Entertainment Pvt Ltd's latest venture RASCALS is all set to release this Dussehra on 6th October, 2011. Starring Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Kangana Ranaut, Arjun Rampal, Chunky Pandey, Satish Kaushik and others, Rascals is an out and out comedy produced by Sanjay Dutt, Sanjay Ahluwalia and Vinay Choksey and is directed by David Dhawan. The film is presented by Bharat Shah.

The music is composed by the talented duo Vishal and Shekhar and the songs have been choreographed by Bosco-Ceaser. The screenplay has been written by Yunus Sajawal. The director of photography is Vikas Sivaraman, dialogues are written by Sanjay Chhel and the editor is Nitin Rokade. 

SRK's smoking habit 

Bollywood super star Shah Rukh Khan blames his initial days with theatre for his smoking habit.

Recalling his days as a theatre actor in Delhi, he said: "I remember when a fireplace was put up, the guys used to go behind the fireplace to smoke and put out the fire. That's how I also started smoking and it is not my fault. It has (this habit) got all to do with theatre."

The Badshah of Bollywood, who arrived in Toronto for the 12th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards ceremony, said he would love to return to theatre as it was his first love.

"I belong to theatre. I started off doing a lot of stage in Delhi... first small time and then a little on the streets. Always the desire was to be a theatre actor. I used to work with John Barry and even Sheilaji - a lot of wonderful producers, directors. We used to go out and perform in small little theatres and on stages."

He added, "The Kingdom of Dreams (in Gurgaon) wants me to come and perform under the tutelage of Shiamak Davar."

Challenging Dawar and making fun of his knee problem, he said, "My dance is better than yours even on one leg."

When a reporter asked him in lighter vein in Hindi, "Kya mard ko dard naahi hota: (whether a man like him doesn't feel pain) - Shah Rukh replied in the same vein - "Mard ko bahut dard hota hai" (the man feels a lot of pain).

The actor said he was advised two weeks ago not to perform, but he didn't want to go back on his commitment to Wizcraft "who have been very kind to me all these years".

He said his knee surgery is scheduled for July. — IANS

When nobody recognised Ritiesh Deshmukh!

Ritiesh Deshmukh The hilarious promos of comedy film Double Dhamaal shows the four jokers in some pretty unusual and funny costumes….and one of the most unusual ones is Ritiesh Deshmukh dressed as a typical Chinese man called Lee.

Well sources tell us quite an amusing incident behind the costume…

Apparently Ritiesh's Chinese avatar styling and make up was so perfect and authentic, that when he stepped onto the sets for the scenes shot in Hong Kong, not a soul recognised him! There were other Chinese actors from Hong Kong as extras on the set, and the entire crew took Ritiesh to be one of them…

And Ritiesh, who never lets an opportunity when it comes to pranks go by…went along with it and didn't tell anyone he was on the sets! He in fact went to the Chinese extras and started talking to them. Iit was only when director Indra Kumar who knew it was Ritiesh and called him for the scenes that the crew realised he was right there with them! The entire crew present burst out laughing at their folly and proceeded to film the scenes. 

I won't undergo cosmetic surgery: Julianne Moore 

Julianna MooreUnlike some of her contemporaries, Hollywood actress Julianne Moore says that she won't ever undergo cosmetic surgery to look more youthful.

The 50-year-old actress said that there are perks to letting the aging process happen naturally, reported a Us magazine. "My feeling is live and let live. Some of those procedures that make you look younger, I don't know that they really made anybody look younger. I think most of the time they make you look like you've had something done to your face.

"The big thing about being 50 is the bar is much lower. People are like, 'Oh my God, you look great!' So that's sort of good," she said. Though Moore is happy with the way she looks, she said that she often feels insecure at big Hollywood events.

"I never feel confident! I don't know that there's anybody who does," the actress, who has two children with husband Bart Freundlich, said. "I mean, you don't look around the red carpet thinking, 'There's a lot of confident people out here'," she added. — PTI

Time to takeover

Aamir KhanBollywood superstar Aamir Khan, who has done an item number in his ready-to-release adult comedy Delhi Belly, says the time for Bollywood item girls is over. "As far as the item dance done by me is concerned, it is a warning to Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone that the era of item girls is over... now it's time for item boys," Aamir said at a promotional event of Ke Hobe Banglar Kotipoti, the Bengali version of Kaun Banege Crorepati, being broadcast on Mahuaa Bangla.

Aamir pays tribute to the disco era of Indian cinema of the 1980s. "It is a tribute to the disco era of the 80s led by Bappida (Bappi Lahiri), Mithunda (Minthun Chakraborty) who was known as disco king and Govinda," he said. — IANS 

Spain calling

Pop star Cheryl Cole is reportedly thinking of starting a new life in Spain with former husband Ashley Cole. The 27-year-old is said to be "hugely intrigued" by the suggestion from the football player, who she split from following a string of cheating allegations, reported a publication online.

"Ashley has told friends he sees his future abroad and he wants to persuade Cheryl to come with him. It all boils down to what Cheryl wants, but the early signs are she would be up for the idea. "She's found living in the UK to be fraught especially with so much negativity towards her now. But abroad, she could lead her life at her own pace. That's appealing to say the least," a source said.

Ashley is also said to be planning to buy new rings for himself and Cheryl - who was sensationally sacked from the US X Factor after just a few weeks - to signify a "new start" if she agrees to his plans. "It's a lovely gesture that he thinks she will really appreciate. A lot has happened over the last few years which they are determined to draw a line under," the source added.

While Cheryl's family and friends are said to be furious that she is considering reuniting with Ashley, the soccer star's mother Sue backs the reconciliation. "Sue consoled her broken son after Cheryl left him and was very unhappy at the time. But she's embraced the idea of the two of them getting back together. "She knows Cheryl was good for Ashley and has nothing but nice things to say about her because she makes him happy and is the most important thing in Ash's life bar his sport," the source said. — PTI

Remembering Pancham Da

Remembering the legendary Rahul Dev Burman on his 72nd birth anniversary, veteran playback singer Lata Mangeshkar today shared her fond memories with the late music director.

Son of the eminent music director Sachin Dev Burman, R D was fondly referred to as Pancham Da.

"Today, I remember, a 13-14 year old boy, wearing khaki shorts and a white shirt had come to take my autograph. I remember, I was recording a song with S D Burman sahab when the small boy came and Burman dada told me he was his son - Pancham...and that he is learning to play sarod. This was the first time I had met Pancham," Lata said on micro-blogging site Twitter.

"I was surprised when Mehmood (comedian-filmmaker) Sahab told me that Pancham is giving the music for the film Chhote Nawab and my song was Ghar Aaja Ghir Aayi. I felt good after listening to the song and I was thinking how this small boy has given such a good music. Since then we worked together several times," the melody queen said.

"He died at a young age. I feel very sad for it. Pancham was a very talented music director and today on his birth anniversary I just want to say that you will always remain alive in our memories," she said. — PTI

Not ready to mingle

Prince Harry has refuted rumours of an affair with Kate Middleton's younger sister Pippa since the royal wedding in April, saying that their friendship was "strictly platonic".

Admitting he is single again, the 26-year-old third- in-line to the British throne has said that he has no plans to start dating, even his brother Prince William's sister-in-law Pippa Middleton. "Pippa? Ha! No, I am not seeing anyone at the moment. I'm 100 per cent single. I'm working a lot at the moment, so dating and watching TV are the last things I have time for," a publication quoted Harry as telling guests at the Hard Rock Calling concert at Hyde Park in London.

Harry has also revealed that he hopes to enjoy a trip to South Africa this summer. "I am hoping to get a holiday in August. I haven't been to South Africa in a long time, so may be I'll go there," he said. A source was quoted as saying, "Harry spent much of the meal deep in conversation with a group of girls, including an American blonde."They were discussing his brother and Kate's forthcoming trip to the United States -- Harry said he thought they will get along famously there because the Americans are receptive and love confident people." — PTI 

The Year Ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 28...
Your birth date is combination of 2 plus 8 and on the 28th day of the June the sum of year comes to be 2 [ 2+8+6+2+0+1+1= 20]. It shows independence and extra energy in 2011-12. The number 1 suggest more executive ability and leadership qualities.Whatever you're working needs your undivided attention. Career:You are too demanding at work and expect too much from your employers so try to settle for what you have. Those born after 1980 will feel a little on edge. If you take up a challenge, you may be disappointed to see how few people are willing to help you. Family: Children appear to be a source of expense this year due to hefty fees in admissions. Friends are on solid ground and may be helpful when health care issues trouble you by either weakening you or taking up your time. Health will be well except backache. Love: If you are willing to pay heed to the needs of your partner, he or she will be grateful to you. State of Mind: Vulnerable if illness hits. Compatible Signs: Libra, Taurus. Lucky colours: Crimson, Dark Gray. Your lucky days this week will be Tuesday and Saturday. Lucky Numbers: 1 and 4.

Sabrina Ferilli was born on June 28, 1964 in Rome, Italy. She is a famous actress, especially in her homeland.and part of the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia in Rome and attended the local drama circuit. In 1990 she received a role in The Red American and in 1993 in Diary of a Maniac. Those two roles were a giant step for her as an actress. She became popular especially as a television star. One great role was in 1999 in the television series Commesse. She did many commercials and advertisements and one of them was for a famous spaghetti brand. She loves animals --dog and cat.

Sabrina Ferilli was born on June 28, 1964 in Rome, Italy. She is a famous actress, especially in her homeland.and part of the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia in Rome and attended the local drama circuit. In 1990 she received a role in The Red American and in 1993 in Diary of a Maniac. Those two roles were a giant step for her as an actress. She became popular especially as a television star. One great role was in 1999 in the television series Commesse. She did many commercials and advertisements and one of them was for a famous spaghetti brand. She loves animals --dog and cat.

Out of rhythm

 Adnana Sami & Kailash Kher (L-R)Judges of Zee's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li'l Champs were surprised and shocked to know that most kids on the show had learnt music via television or by hearing songs on the mobile phone. During the auditions, when the judges asked about the gurus, or where the kids learnt music, these answers flummoxed them. The judges were worried about the trend and hoped the parents get serious about teaching music to their kids and would enroll them in a school instead.





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