Couple chemistry
Chandrachur Singh is back, so is Deep Shikha. Upcoming Punjabi movie Just U & Me promises a lot sans the word Jatt…

Manpriya Singh

Gitaz Bindrakhiya & Priyal Gor
Gitaz Bindrakhiya & Priyal Gor

Production suddenly sounds like a gamble if you aren't making a film with the word Jatt in the title, the protagonist hasn't cut half a dozen music albums and the script doesn't stick to the all-pervasive genre of a romantic comedy! On a few counts, director Manduip Singh doesn't give into the herd mentality. "Whether we want to cast a Bollywood actress or a singer or anybody else is a decision that the casting team takes. Ideally, the person who fits into the role should be playing it. That is something we've tried achieving in this film," he shares during the announcement of his upcoming film Just U & Me.

So, the casting team decides on a list comprising Chandrachur Singh, Deep Shikha, Gitaz Bindrakhiya (son of famous Punjabi singer late Bindrakhiya) and Priyal Gor. He adds, "It's romantic comedy and although every maker calls their film different, I leave it to the audience to decide the level of difference. It's a journey of a boy and a girl." The credits also include promising names like Jaswinder Bhalla, Asrani, Shahbaz Khan, Himaani Shivpuri, Sanjay Mishra, Bhotu Shah, among others.

Back in limelight

It feels like ages since the name Chandrachur Singh rolled in the film credits. To cut the long story short, he disappeared for a long while. Nevertheless, the impact of Maachis and the character he portrayed remain firmly etched somewhere. "I've been a busy father to a six-year-old. I used to teach music before I became an actor and I got back to music. All this while, I learnt how to appreciate rock, caught up with classics of Indian and world cinema; read a lot," he explains his absence from the limelight. He adds, "All these things wouldn't have been possible with films. While you are doing commercial cinema, there's no time to breathe." As for the film in question, he plays, "A rich NRI businessman on the lookout for a match for his sister." Post Maachis, while playing a Punjabi might come easy but not the language. "I'll start learning now. My mother speaks fluent Punjabi."

Coming up are Zilla Ghaziabad, Reluctant Fundamentalist and Ranger Singh, each one with an interesting subject to boast of. "Fortunately, we are at that stage of Indian cinema where you don't get typecast."

Punjabi at heart

She belongs to an era of television when the celebrity took over the character they played and not the other way round. "Today's actresses are known by the character names they play and their shelf life depends on the duration of the serial. People still know me as Deep Shikha." We'd rather recall her as the girl in Dardi Rab Rab Kardi in one of Daler Mehndi's albums. The Punjab connection goes long back. "My father is a Punjabi and even though I'm a vegetarian, I love Punjabi food." Deep Shikha, the yesteryears television actress, plays Simran. "It's a very lovable, bubbly character. I liked the role and so am playing it."

Sing along

Finally the singer factor finds its way into the script. Gitaz Bindrakhiya, better known as late Punjabi singer Bindrakhiya's son, has tried striking a chord already. "I wanted to be a singer too, but hopefully, post this film, the audience accepts me as an actor too." He shares, "I play a spoilt brat; a teenage boy who doesn't listen to his parents."

Big break

Television viewers will know who we are referring to — the Priyal Gor, of Ram Milaye Jodi, Dekha Ek Khwab, among others. From the small screen to regional silver screen, isn't quite a switch for the actor. "I have had a few advertisement stints Down South as well. Punjabi is still somewhat connected to Hindi, while southern languages are tougher." She plays Geet, the upfront NRI, who's a tigress outside and a mouse back home.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Energy unlimited
Bollywood actor Kiran Kumar is on the Punjabi turf now, playing a role in upcoming movie Young Malang…
Jasmine Singh

"Ask me a place where I haven't been. I have been to Alaska as well. I haven't been to China though, otherwise I have traveled widely"… the man talking about his travels, his faith in the almighty, love for his family, regular sessions at the gymnasium…is the one who had sparked the silver screen with his innocently naughty looks in the movie Jungle Main Mangal. Actor Kiran Kumar, over the years of his career, meandered through various characters and established himself as a villain, rather a good-looking villain, which the good boys had to rub shoulders with.

In Chandigarh along with Tej and Aryaman Sapru, and the director of his first Punjabi film Young Malang Rajdeep Singh, Kiran Kumar is a bundle of infectious energy. He talks at the speed of Shatabdi, refusing to slow down…but offering the best he has.

The Lotiay Pathaan of Tezaab is keen on doing a Punjabi film and he sure doesn't feel like an outsider. "I am married to a Punjabi, so if you ask me whether I like Punjabi food, I would have to tell you this is what is made at our home," shares Kiran.

He has his own reasons of entering into Punjabi cinema. "I feel at home; I am comfortable working with the producer, director and my co-actors. Besides, for an actor, it is the role that decides! "In Young Malang, I have a good role to play," he adds.

It wouldn't be possible to place his movies in chronological order; Kiran Kumar is busy with a number of projects. Slowing down is something he is yet to learn.

"Cinema is going through a lovely phase whether it is Bollywood or regional cinema; I am doing substantial roles with many more to come. As far as Punjabi cinema is concerned, you will notice the difference in acting. It would be more real and touching," shares the actor, who will soon be launching his production house.

"I am back in circulation; I was doing a lot of television, two-three Hollywood projects, movies… I am enjoying the journey." Isn't this what matters?

Short take
Tej Sparu, who plays a father in Young Malang, "Regional cinema has evolved with time. Punjabi cinema is at par with Bollywood; the standards have become better with fresh directors and script writers," he says. Tej is the light-eyed actor seen in many Bollywood films and television. He is popular due to the recent show on Zee TV Qubool Hai. As for Aryaman Sapru, who plays a negative role in the film, "I am very excited."

Getaway gateway
Tired of the city din? Pack your bags and head to one of these charming destinations
Manpriya Singh


Clouds form a colourful canopy over the Norwood Greens in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
GREEN HAVEN: Clouds form a colourful canopy over the Norwood Greens in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh

Do we really need to go far to be far from the madding crowd? Or venture during a godforsaken hour or a rainy month to avoid brushing shoulders with random people from similar backgrounds? Those who'd rather go off the charts and land nowhere than to one of the myriad commercialised, tourist flocked, clichéd destinations; there's some hope and a host of alternatives.

Nestled in tea-gardens

A picturesque view of the mountains from amid the trees
GREEN HAVEN: A picturesque view of the mountains from amid the trees

Palampur, in Himachal Pradesh, sounds exotic or at least exciting enough! And there's Norwood Green out to change the image of the place; not to forget the entire experience that you might associate with it. "We only entertain guests who want to relax. The property is set amidst tea gardens and yet is easily accessible. There are stand-alone villas with around four bedrooms in each of them," shares Karan Singh, the proprietor. Picture the trees, the greens, the tea leaves, sulphur springs and host of activities. He adds, "It is nestled in one of the villages of Palampur, so one can go and explore the native life. Around the cottages, there are streams coming down. Even if you spend ten days, everyday will be a new day," he adds.

Charm of the farm

A tea garden
rural flavour: A tea garden

One wouldn't really spell tourism and the state of Punjab in the same breath because no matter how far are you coming from, you are only coming home! We might yet need to explore the farm tourism concept; there are some that already see vision and promise.

Citrus Country Farm Stays, Hoshiarpur, promises a farm stay getaway, in the middle of acres of kinnow and popular plantations. Picture traditional Punjabi food, a host other activities and nearness to Anandpur Sahib - the hub of heritage and cultural activities - and experience true-blue Punjab, first-hand. Says Dilbagh Pahwa, city-based travel consultant, "One of the latest trends in tourism is to treat a property as a destination. There are various sprawling properties that give you the feel of the place, apart from activities to pursue in the area." He adds, "This trend was, perhaps, started by Ananda Spa, in the Himalayas. That is a destination in itself rather than the place that it is situated in."

Neighbourhood hills

We always have our neighbours to fall back upon, if nothing else works. No paperwork, zero ground work, just head and explore — the hills, the mountain and the wonderful valleys.

"There are so many lesser-known options in nearby Himachal. There's Tirthan Valley in district Kullu, then there's Kasol and if you have only one night, there's Shogi in district Solan," shares Bijender Gahlyan, operations manager, Make My Trip India Pvt Ltd.

Situated besides the Tirthan River in Himachal Pradesh, the valley is a wonderful getaway to the Great Himalayan National Park. Think nature walks, woods, river…bliss.

Exotic view

For those who can head a little further and go the distance, there's the Chambal Safari Lodge near Agra. Shares travel writer Puneetinder Kaur, "It is an experience in itself and highly recommended. The place is a bird-watching destination with great hospitality and amazing food to go with." She adds, "There's also Kalpa in Kinnaur, which hasa the most awesome views of the Kinner Kailash, especially on a full-moon night."

manpriya@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side
A greener option
Home-made cleaners work as well as the chemical ones available in the market and what’s more, these are cheaper too...
Sukhmani

Thinking of cleaning up your house? Ditch the chemical cleaners this year and make some equally effective homemade cleaners. Studies show that the chemicals in the conventional cleaning supplies are bad for your health, your children's health as well as the planet's health. Homemade cleaners work just as well and are a cheaper option too. This is the first step you can take in your homes to going green. Use homemade cleaners for a cleaner indoor air quality and a healthier you.

A few things you need to make homemade cleansers - table salt, white vinegar, baking soda, fresh lemons, organic essential oils like eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender etc.

Windows/Glass: Mix 3 tbl spoons of vinegar in 2 cups of water and watch the glass sparkle. If you don't like the smell of vinegar, then use fresh lemon juice, baking soda or club soda instead.

All-purpose disinfectant: Mix 2 cups water, a few drops of natural soap and 15 drops each of tea tree and lavender organic essential oil. You can spray this on all kinds of home surfaces.

Air freshener: Baking soda or vinegar with lemon juice in small dishes absorbs odors around the house. Having houseplants helps reduce odors as well. Place bowls of fragrant dried herbs and flowers in room or simmer cinnamon or essential oils on small burners around the house.

Mold: Mold in bathroom tile grouts is a common problem and can be a health concern. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide (3 per cent) with two parts water in a spray bottle and spray on areas with mold. Wait at least one hour before rinsing. Once a week, spray your walls with a mixture of two cups of water and three drops of pure organic tea tree essential oil.

Marks on walls: Spots on walls and pencil/crayon marks can be removed by applying baking soda on a wet sponge. Rub gently and then wipe or rinse.

Mothballs: Replace using mothballs with dried neem leaves, dried lemon peels, cedar chips or cedar oil in an absorbent cloth.

Rust: Sprinkle a little salt on the rust, squeeze a lime over the salt until it is well soaked. Leave the mixture on for 2 - 3 hours. Use leftover rind to scrub residue.

Toilets: Drizzle your toilet bowl with vinegar, lemon juice, or spray on some all-purpose disinfectant. Sprinkle with baking soda. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Scrub with a toilet brush. This mix will also clean sinks perfectly.

Drain cleaner: Pour ½ cup baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup vinegar. Let it stand for a few minutes, and then flush the pipes with hot water.

(Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

Master Chef
Amazing maize
Manju Dewan

The golden colour and its crunchiness make maize a versatile ingredient for any dish. Our own 'roti' with makki ka atta is a dish relished by all North Indians and has become a delicacy for special occasions too. This innovative dish with maize flour is a sure winner.

Polenta concia
Ingredients
1 cup makki ka atta
1½ cup boiling water
¼ tsp soda bi carb
2 tsp oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper powder to taste
1 cheese cube (grated)

For topping
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tomatoes (chopped)
2 onions (chopped)
1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
½ tsp black pepper powder
½ tsp oregano
½ tbsp basil

Method
Mix boiled water, salt, black pepper powder, oil and soda bi-carb.
Mix makki ka atta with little water and mix it in the boiling water. Cook it until it starts to thicken.
For the tomato topping, heat oil in a pan and sauté onions and tomato for 2-3 minutes. Then add remaining ingredients and cook for 3-4 minutes.
Pour makki mixture in a greased baking dish.
Pour the tomato mixture over it. Spread the grated cheese over it and bake in a preheated oven for ½ hour.

(Dewan is a Ludhiana-based culinary chef)

—As told to Poonam Bindra

A whiff of Delhi
Tanya Malhotra

Indi Spice offers mouthwatering delicacies.
Spicy treat: Indi Spice offers mouthwatering delicacies.

No matter where we eat in Delhi, there is always a distinctive flavour. Little wonder that places are even named after the specialty, like the Paranthewali gali! Trust us when we say this, it is difficult to resist the temptation that Delhi offers in terms of food. If you haven’t yet tasted it, worry not. You don’t have to drop everything and travel to Delhi just to savour all those delicacies. For, Indi Spice, Park Plaza-17 brings you the taste of Delhi-6 yet again after the huge response they received last year.

On the menu

The menu includes the best of finger food from Sweety Singh ka Dhaba, street food from Sitaram Bazaar and Jama Masjid, soups, the famous paranthas from Paranthewali Gali, biryanis from Asaf Ali Road, the veg delicacies from Chawr Bazaar and the best of the desserts of Lal Quila. The price of the unlimited food menu starts from Rs 1,000 plus tax and Rs1, 400 with hard drinks. Presented in a rustic platter, the ambience truly complements the food.

Something new

Gagandeep Singh, general manager, Park Plaza, says, “Previously we had arranged fiestas like GT Road Food Festival, Kashmiri Food, Chinese Bowl and Macchi Bazaar and more. Next month, we are hoping to bring in the international delicacies named Around the World in $15’.”

On till May 11.

Celebrate Sunday
Jasmine Singh

Chef Ashish Bali takes you on a culinary journey.
brunch out : Chef Ashish Bali takes you on a culinary journey.

There are better ways of spending a Sunday than catching up on all the repeat telecast on television, than re-arranging your wardrobe, or deciding what to eat, whether a brunch should be good enough or supper should be fine. There are definitely better ways to spend a Sunday. Like for instance if you stay in Chandigarh, Panchkula, Mohali or Ambala, you can gather your family together, pack them in a car, grab your swimming costumes and head straight for the recently- opened Aloft, Zirakpur.

From the house of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Aloft offers the best option to spend an ideal Sunday with a Sunday brunch, and the executive chef at Aloft, Ashish Bali is more than happy to take you around the property (if you are interested); and finally to area where the brunch is laid.

On the menu

The concept of brunch is a regular Sunday feature at every Indian home! Giving it a contemporary spin, Aloft creates a Sunday brunch package that is interesting and worth every penny spent. The area where the brunch is laid is the bar area which is pretty much set for the families and couples. On the menu is an assortment of continental, Mexican, Chinese and Indian cuisines.

“The menu changes every Sunday,” Chef Bali is takes us through the line-up. A multi- cuisine brunch that is healthy and appetizing is what the place provides.

Start with the starters; choose from the vegetarian and non-veg ones. You can go with Mexican chicken, which is neither too spicy nor too bland. “Just the way you want,” adds the chef. Amritsari Fish, the regular spring rolls, corn karaari tikki can get your tastebuds rolling.

If you want to dig into sea food, the live counter of Aloft is where you should head. Other than this, this is the counter where you can make your own salad, chaat paapri, bhel puri and salami sausages. You can let the chefs do the serving for you, if all you want to do is chill on a Sunday. Sum up the brunch with something sweet like maalpura, rabri or ice cream.

The word package comes naturally to the hospitality industry. Aloft too creates one for you for a Sunday. For Rs 600 per person you can enjoy four pints of beer, a dip in the swimming pool and the Sunday brunch too!

Timings for the Sunday brunch: 12.30-3.30 pm

first-day-first show
Action and reaction
Shootout at Wadala

John Abraham in Shootout at Wadala
John Abraham in Shootout at Wadala

Written and directed by Sanjay Gupta, Shootout at Wadala is a Bollywood crime and action flick and it is a prequel to the film, Shootout at Lokhandwala that was released in 2007. The film features John Abraham, Kangna Ranaut, Anil Kapoor, Tusshar Kapoor, and Sonu Sood in lead roles. Meanwhile, the film dramatises the first-ever registered encounter by Mumbai police, where gangster Manya Surve was shot dead at the junction next to Dr Ambedkar College in Wadala, Mumbai on January 11, 1982.

Action packed

Well, as expected the movie has a lot of action infused with drama and I love the typical tapori language that has been used in the film. Also, the dialogues are very well crafted. In my opinion, Manoj Bajpai’s character has emerged out as a strong one. In fact, I really like the part where he turns down John Abraham’s proposal, where he asks him to join his gang. It’s a good movie.

Utpal Seda, student

Balanced action

What I really liked about the film is the fact that it does not just play upon the action scenes; instead it is the plot and the story line of the film, which drive the action. A movie, no matter how big its budget is, won’t work unless it has a good story to back it up with and Shootout at Wadala has not just a rich and intriguing plot, but it also has an ensemble of very talented actors, who have pulled off their roles brilliantly.

Neha Sharma, student

If you fancy violence

I think it is a nice movie, just that I am not too keen on violence and gore. In fact, I think men would really like the film. Also, Kangna’s role in the film is almost negligible. However, it definitely qualifies for a one-time watch.

Angisha Garg, student

Bombay Talkies

A still from  Zoya Akhtar’s film in Bombay talkies
A still from Zoya Akhtar’s film in Bombay talkies

Bombay Talkies is a Bollywood anthology film consisting of four short films, directed by Anurag Kashyap, Dibakar Banerjee, Zoya Akhtar and Karan Johar. Meanwhile, the film will mark the centenary year of Indian cinema. The music of the film has been composed by Amit Trivedi and it has already been selected for the 2013 Cannes Film Festival. While Karan Johar’s film revolves around a happily married urban couple, until the wife meets a new colleague at work, which changes her life forever, Dibakar Banerjee’s film is about a failed actor, struggling to make a living after his father’s death. Anurag Kashyap Film, Murabba, is about a man from a small town who comes to Mumbai to fulfil his ailing father’s last wish. Finally, Zoya Akhtar’s film features a 12-year-old boy from a middle-class family is inspired by a film star to break the conventions of society and follow his dreams.

Cherishing moments

This film definitely celebrates 100 glorious years of Indian cinema. As a whole, the movie has a lot of emotional moments. However, because the film has been divided into four segments, each belonging to one director, every segment depicts a different shade, a different story. Since I am a Karan Johar fan, I liked the first segment a lot.

Shyama Hari, housewife

All that matters

I really liked the film, especially Nawazuddin’s character and his acting. Also, the story telling in the film is commendable. One has to watch it to believe it.

Jaspreet Kaur, student

As told to Amarjot Kaur

star track
Goan celebrations

Anushka Sharma Anushka Sharma turned 25 in style by celebrating her birthday in Goa with her family members and close friends. She has been busy shooting for movies, endorsements and magazine covers back-to-back. She took only a day off to celebrate her birthday with her loved ones.

Birthday bumps: Anushka Sharma

Success story

Shraddha Kapoor Shakti Kapoor finally has a reason to smile. His children Shraddha and Siddhanth Kapoor are now in the news for the right reasons. Shraddha got good reviews for Aashique 2 and the movie has become a hit too. Siddhanth's debut film is Shootout at Wadala and he has been getting good reviews for his work.

happy time: Shraddha Kapoor

No show John Abraham at the opening show of Shootout...

The premiere of Shootout at Wadala was cancelled because of the recent income tax raids on the offices and homes of Ekta and Tusshar Kapoor and Balaji Telefilms. They do not want to show off and make their presence felt at the moment. Ekta has been so stressed about this and so she cancelled the grand theme premiere plans she had for the movie.
Thumbs up: John Abraham at the opening show of Shootout...

Wrap up in style

The cast and crew of Gulab Gang The shooting of Gulab Gang is now complete. The movie stars Madhuri Dixit and Juhi Chawla in the leading roles and is produced by Anubhav Sinha. He threw a lavish bash to mark the completion of the shooting. The movie will go into post-production. The party was attended by many filmmakers such as Shoojit Sircar and Sudhir Mishra.

The cast and crew of Gulab Gang

All for family

Vidya Balan Vidya Balan is already a favourite in her husband's family. Her brother-in-law Aditya Roy Kapoor had a hit with Aashique 2. So, she organised a special family dinner for him at her place in Juhu in suburban Mumbai.

She ensured that his favourite dishes like rajma chawal, aloo tikki, dahi boondi, and kulfi falooda were on the menu. It was a sweet family celebration.

Family ties: Vidya Balan

Birthday bashHrithik and Suzanne Roshan

Hrithik Roshan's son Hridaan Roshan turned a year older yesterday. The parents threw a lavish bash for him and ensured everybody had a super-duper time. Hridaan thinks May 1 is a national holiday because of his birthday. That is cute!

proud parents: Hrithik and Suzanne Roshan

Angry young man

Sonu Nigam Sonu Nigam is known for expressing his opinion. He is currently peeved with the makers of Bombay Talkies because he and other prominent singers have not been given credit on the CD cover of the album. All of them had sung for free for the title song but neither were they in the video nor were they given credit on the cover.

talk out:
Sonu Nigam

Full of beans

Karan Johar has had a huge role to play in the careers of Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Kajol and many other stars. He has directed a segment in Bombay Talkies. He talks about stardom, talk shows, and more.

New brew

I am so excited about the new season of Koffee with Karan. The people are the same but they all have a new lover, a new controversy or a new enemy. Then there is an entire batch of younger people that has come in and these new stars speak their mind. They are irreverent and take no caution and express their opinion. They do not have any baggage yet. So it should be fun.

The galaxy

I have worked with established stars and launched new talents. I feel the stardom of Shah Rukh, Salman, Ajay, Aamir, Saif, Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay and Hrihik is unattainable. Today's generation has too many stars and aspirants and they do not worship their heroes the way the older generation used to. There are so many young stars that the stardom and euphoria will be divided.

Then & now

I feel the new generation of cinema fans and actors are not loyal. They cheat on their actors. Earlier, there was a greater longevity and loyalty in their star worship. The Khans, Kumars and Kapoors will have their fan following for years to come but things are changing fast here. In Hollywood, there is a new teen idol every year and the erstwhile superstars are finding something new to do. 

Relationship blues

Karan JoharI liked the story in Bombay Talkies which is about the grey area in the relationship of a married couple. I find it intriguing that lies, deceit, and betrayal come up only in the marital relationship and we are more honest in our equations with our parents, friends and siblings. I tried to explore that in Kabhie Alvida Naa Kehna and this is one step ahead.

Techno challenge

The euphoria and enigma around a star has watered down. With smartphones and social media along with promotions, stars are literally at your fingertips, in your city, in your bedroom, bathroom, office, drawing room, wherever you are. I have to keep the young lot entertained in a way they would like so we introduce new talent every year at Dharma. It is the need of the hour.
direct act: Karan Johar

Is Imran acting pricey?

The latest Khan to join the bandwagon of signing films for crores is the chocolate boy Imran Khan. If the grapevine is to be believed then the Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na boy has signed Once Upon A Time In Mumbai 2 for Rs 11 crores.

With hit films to his credit like Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na (2008), I Hate Luv Storys (2010), Mere Brother Ki Dulhan (2011) and more recently Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu (2012), Imran has become the most sought after actor in Bollywood. His performance in off-beat cinema Delhi Belly also won him huge accolades. He is young, energetic and started off really well. His powerful performance and strong attitude have made him Imran Khan the 'youth icon. The actor is utilising his success quotient and has demanded Rs 1 crores for Once Upon A Time In Mumbai 2.

“Imran’s career has seen a steady growth, thanks to his fan following. His next big release is Milan Luthria’s OUATIMA that also stars Akshay Kumar. Imran is paired opposite Sonakshi Sinha in the film. The figure he is believed to be earning is Rs 11 crore,” says a source close to the actor.

Imran has bagged Siddharth Malhotra's Gori Tere Pyaar Mein opposite Kareena Kapoor and Tigmanshu Dhulia's Milan Talkies with Anushka Sharma.

million-dollar boy: Imran Khan

Milind, Shahana break-up!

Another relationship in Bollywood has gone kaput and this time it is of model turned actor Milind Soman and Rock On actress Shahana Goswami. After dating for six long years, finally Milind and Shahana called it a quits.

The reason of their break-up is said to be marriage. The couple had a difference of opinion on marriage. While Shahana is eager to settle down, Milind is showing no interest on settling down anytime soon.

Shahana Goswami Milind SomanMilind, who was in news for numerous affairs, had a failed marriage with French actress Mylene Jampanoi. He married Mylene but in 2009, he got divorced.

Shahana Goswami, 26, entered Milind’s life after his failed marriage and both were head over heels in love but destiny has stored something else for them and they drifted apart. Things turned worse when Shahana expressed her desire to settle down and Milind expressed his dilemma over entering into wedlock so soon.
split up: Shahana Goswami & Milind Soman

chatter box
While mommies do the tango!

Dance India Dance, the show that redefined dance, is back again with yet another unique concept to enthrall the viewers. In all the seasons of DID, there has been one common factor, the families of all contestants on the show have never shied away from joining their sons/daughters on stage for a dance. Taking this ahead, Zee TV will soon bring a new show with a concept that has never been explored before! It is time for all mothers across India to take centre stage with DID Super Moms.

Dance India Dance Super Moms"Through every edition of Dance India Dance, be it for adults or kids, we have seen the mothers of all contestants expressing a desire to dance. After seeing them take to stage confidently, we thought of showcasing their talent. This show will give an opportunity to all those mothers who are passionate about dancing but have never got the chance to showcase their talent. Our criteria does not change for this series just because they are mothers… our audiences can be rest assured that their dancing will surely be of the high standard that DID contestants are synonymous with." says Ajay Bhalwankar, Zee content head (Hindi GEC). Auditions for the show have already started with Zee TV calling for entries in 15 cities across the country. If you are a mommy or if you know any mommies who dance, send them for the auditions of Dance India Dance Super Moms!

All about moves: Dance India Dance Super Moms

John's new Laila

While the nation is grooving to the beats of Laila aka Sunny Leone, John Abraham is busy matching steps with his new Laila. Now, before you get any thoughts here's the complete story. John Abraham made an appearance on Sony Entertainment's Comedy Circus Ke Ajoobe to promote his upcoming action flick, Shootout at Wadala. A still from Comedy Circus Ke Ajoobe The Bollywood hunk had a gala time with Archana and Arbaaz. Meanwhile, when it was Bharti's time to tickle the funny bone, she invited John on stage and they both grooved to the song Laila teri le gi, which set the stage on fire. John, Bharti and Krushna showed off their dance moves, which left the audience asking for more. Catch the madness this Saturday at 48:30pm.
Fun sake: A still from Comedy Circus Ke Ajoobe

Identity crisis

A still from Na Bole Tum…  While the makers of Na Bole Tum Na Meine Kuch Kaha, a show that is telecast on Colors are building up the suspense regarding who the real Addu is, they are also planning on bringing up some confusion too. It is suggested that Munna (Kanwar Dhillon) is the real Addu. Meanwhile, the entry of Manish Gandhi, who will essay the role of a man in a mental asylum, may also be projected as Addu. The two are childhood friends, but later in the story, it will be revealed that Munna (Kanwar Dhillon) is the real Addu and not Manish.
Real confusion: A still from Na Bole Tum… 

This Ammaji can dance

Meghna Malik will now be seen in the dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa after her powerful performance as Ammaji in Na aana iss Desh Meri Laado. is excited about it and talks on the same…

Why did you take up Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa?

After 15 years of acting, I wanted to come out of the comfort zone as I was feeling stagnant. This is a good chance to try something new. I can push myself to create some ripples in the water I was living in. It will be an adventure.

Have you danced ever professionally?

Every Indian is a dancer at heart. I have not taken any classes. I hope the audience loves and identifies with my style.

The bahus are always the favourite on the show…

When I learnt that there were so many good dancers in the show, I felt they would be good competition. Some are trained dancers while I have seen most of them Meghna Malik dancing at award functions.

What did you do post your show Na Aana Is Des Meri Laado ended?

I was on a break. I travelled a lot to South India and Amritsar. I also went to Zambia, Victoria Falls with my parents. Then the Haryana Election Commission made me the brand ambassador for an outreach activity to encourage women to come forward and get themselves to vote.

Not much is known about your personal life. Are you dating anyone or married?

No. I am waiting for someone.

Happy feet:
Meghna Malik

Singing out loud

Indian Idol Junior- the search for the new young voice that will enthrall millions of viewers across India has reached Mumbai. The auditions received an outstanding response from the city. With Mandira Bedi and Karan Wahi anchoring the audition, the excitement among aspiring singers who gathered at Andheri Sports complex was overwhelming. To ensure that Koi Bhi Talent Chhootne Na Paye, the three biggest Judges of Indian Idol Junior names of the music industry Shreya Ghoshal, Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani had the daunting task of picking the best talent amongst thousands of young aspirants. Though the show is in its seventh season, Indian Idol continues to be as exciting as it was when it first came to India. After presenting India with some of the most talented and loved voices, the hunt for the first Indian Idol Junior is on.

Auditions begin: Judges of Indian Idol Junior

On receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award

For the first time, TV actors, Disha Wakhani and Dilip Joshi, received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the best TV actor and actress in small screen category for their Disha Wakhani & Dilip Joshi performance in the popular show, Tarak Mehta Ka ooltah Chashmah. Dilip Joshi says, "Television awards are different from films. But it is truly a divine blessing to be chosen for such a prestigious award." Meanwhile, Disha Wakhani says, "Taarak Mehta is the platform that has given me recognition as an actor."


Honoured and blessed:
Disha Wakhani & Dilip Joshi

Suhasi Dhami Women and diamonds!

Suhasi Dhami, aka Sona of Zee TV's Housewife Hai...Sab Jaanti Hai, celebrated her birthday recently. She feels all birthdays are special and that the best birthday gift she ever received was a solitaire diamond from her husband Jaisheel Dhami, which was given to her last year on her birthday.

Birthday bash: Suhasi Dhami

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Someone at office will try to harm your reputation. Drive carefully, especially two wheelers. Socially, a few rumors and scandals will arise. Be patient and don't make hasty judgments. Tarot message: Stay vigilant. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Lucky number: 60

TAURUS: Finances and investments will take up a major chunk of the day. This is also a good time to deal with loans and credits. Do not stress yourself too much; take care of your health. Tarot message: Take limited risks. Lucky colour: Blue. Lucky number: 52

GEMINI: Many of you will receive a sound counsel from unexpected sources. Those of you facing a cash crunch will be helped out by a friend. You will face a conflict at work, be tactful and sensitive. Tarot message: Take care of your health. Lucky colour: Rainbow-pastels. Lucky number: 46

CANCER: This will be quite a surprising and rewarding day. Many of you will receive bonus, pay hike or appreciation for their hard work. You need to balance your work with your personal commitments. Tarot message: Leave things open-ended for best results. Lucky colour: White. Lucky number: 39

LEO: You will be able to achieve a lot in your personal and professional life. At work, your hardwork will be rewarded. Financial stability will ease the burden of rising expenses. Tarot message: You need to be more creative. Lucky colour: Green. Lucky number: 28

VIRGO: A hectic social life will keep you on your toes today and lead to some new and interesting associations. A special someone will not have enough time for you. Tarot message: Be patient. Lucky colour: Cream. Lucky number: 63

LIBRA: Most of you will be craving for something stimulating and entertaining today. You will be open to challenging assignments. Certain complications at work will test your patience. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Lucky number: 41

SCORPIO: Manage personal relationships with thoughtfulness. Think with your heart. Being vulnerable and open towards your partner will bring the two of you closer. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Orange. Lucky number: 32

SAGITTARIUS: You will receive good proposals today. A health problem is likely to bother you. Keep a close eye on your diet. At work, you will be open to feedback. Tarot message: Do not be over-optimistic. Lucky colour: Mauve. Lucky number: 30

CAPRICORN: Don't hesitate to seek help and guidance. You will be surprised by what you learn. Those who are married need to bring the spark back into their relationship. Tarot message: Investment in property will be fruitful. Lucky colour: Peach. Lucky number: 64

AQUARIUS: Traveling will be a part of the day along with an interest in religion and spirituality. A health problem will bother you. Stick to your resolutions about diet and nutrition. Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at work place. Lucky colour: Saffron. Lucky number: 50

PISCES: Adventure, fun, entertainment will be the highlight today and you will spend a good deal of time with your friends. Most of you will feel a strong desire to prove yourself. Tarot message: Involve yourself as much as possible in new projects. Lucky colour: Purple. Lucky number: 25





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