Resplendent ramp
It’s time for sleek designs and enthusiastic designers at the Kingfisher Ultra Chandigarh Style Week, which kicked-off on Thursday… 
Ashima Batish

It’s a usual scene prior to a fashion show — flurry in the green room, smell of burning hair as irons roll them in or out and make-up kits spread out. You can also hear retro Bollywood music in the background, mixed with thumping sound of the hammer as the ramp is fixed. Meanwhile, models gear up for fittings and fashion designers take account of the situation, besides stealing a few minutes from their busy evening to share the inspiration behind their collection and other details at the Kingfisher Ultra Chandigarh Style Week, which kicked-off on Thursday.

Together we can

They started reviving the traditional embroideries like Kantha work; using worli and madhubani artwork on their creations, when most of the fashion designers were busy minting money by making and selling the usual bridal-wear. Mona and Pali, the sister designers, in all these years haven’t compromised with the basic ideology behind creating designs. There is use of zari but minimal and crystals are hardly there, “Our creations are more about fabric and if bling is there at all, it is understated,” comes from the sister duo, who gave WIFW a miss this time. “We had a lot of buyers flying to India to buy our designs this season; they are always a priority.”

For their show in Chandigarh they have got two collections, dramatically different from each other. One is an ethnic collection, with kurtis and lehangas in mul, “Done in fabric running into 40 to 100 metres, adding to the volume of the lowers, it also has plazzos and salwars.” Titled Brahma Kamal, the collection primarily has a lot of lotus motifs and embroideries, with jute-work done in abundance. The other is a capsule set of eight sarees, which is dedicated to the democratic set up of the country and is named Election Fever. “Each saree has the symbol of a political party - Congress, BJP, BSP, AAP, CPM, TCP, AIADMK and Akali Dal,” says Mona, who asserts that the collection is still very practical and wearable.

ashima@tribunemail.com

Familiar face

Chandigarh is a favourite destination for fashion designer Jatin Kochar, for it is here that he finds a virgin market where buyers are eager to try designer-wear but don’t have as much access. He prefers the city even over Delhi and Mumbai, which, he says, are saturated markets now. This time, he has brought diffusion wear in black, white silver and gold to the city. Also there is a segment of quirky prints, something that Jatin is known for. “I have got cows and dogs; having fun on the fabric.” As for the show-stopper, he is not ready to share as yet.

Back again

After a sabbatical of two years Aslam Khan is raring to make a comeback. And he is beginning with his fashion show in Chandigarh. But on the agenda are bigger events — spring-summer edition of WIFW and autumn-winter edition of LFW. The collection he will present includes brocade salwars, sarees and suits for men. 

Surprise element!
You have known him as the innocent boy lost in the world, making you laugh with his antics. But Diljit Dosanjh, our singer actor, is much more than that 
Jasmine Singh

The moment we think we have understood singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, he comes up with something that puts us back to square one. What do you do then? Start unraveling him all over again. The desi star, dressed up in true Punjabi attire, chooses to talk in crisp English. And mind you, the grammar, sentence formation—everything well in place. Not that this is a criteria to judge anyone, but the Diljit we knew, always preferred to interact in people’s language. What’s new today? He laughs, “Nothing, just surprising you,” removing the crease from his kurta.

Surprise is what he brings for us today at the music launch of his upcoming film Disco Singh, releasing on April 11. “The music of the film is a big surprise; each and every track is according to the situation. Disco Singh is the director’s vision and the each and every song holds value,” says this singer actor.

After two successful hits with Jatt & Juliet and Jatt & Juliet 2, Diljit now has to live up to the audience’s expectations. “I don’t know about the audience, but I am expecting a lot from the film. I only want people to like it, this is all for me. The entire team has worked hard on it and now is the time to show the work,” he adds.

Do we see any Friday jitters? “Kithey ji,” he says in a sing song manner, “I don’t have the time to feel anything. Right now we are promoting the film everywhere. In the night when the battery of my phone dies, along with my phone I hit the sack and sleep like a log.”

Diljit has proved himself in the genre of comedy, but as he shares that the real test will be his upcoming Punjabi film 1984. “This is a different concept and a different film. It will completely take the audiences by surprise who have seen me in only comedy,” adds Diljit. Today is his day to throw in surprises! 

All in the game

The shrewd game that changed the destiny of India and became the premise of one of the world's greatest epics — The Mahabharata — is about to unfold on Star Plus. The show that captured the hearts of viewers across the country is all set to showcase the infamous 'game of dice' between the Pandavas and Kauravas, which becomes the turning point. However, little is known about the game, its players and the bets at stake. Star Plus demystifies the game of dice, unravelling not only the rules that were laid but how the players were manipulated with words.

What were the rules of the game? What happened between Pandavas and Kauravas during the game of dice? Tune in to Mahabharat's to know more.

New Releases

Main Tera Hero
Producer: Balaji Motion Pictures
Director: David Dhawan

David Dhawan, who has given a string of blockbusters, is quite excited to direct his son Varun Dhawan for the first time in Main Tera Hero, which releases this Friday. From being a student to now becoming a hero, it has been quite a transition for this dashing star. Varun Dhawan will be seen romancing two actresses — Nargis Fakhri and Ileana D'Cruz. Main Tera Hero is Varun Dhawan's second film after Student Of The Year and the actor will be seen playing a popular college student. Arunoday Singh also plays an important character in this romantic comedy.

Jal
Producer: One World Films Pvt., Ltd.,
Director: Girish Malik

Jal, a movie directed by Girish Malik, talks about water problems in Kutch, Gujarat. Purab Kohli plays a water diviner (one who searches for water), who is gifted with a special ability to find water in the desert. Jal is high-octane action drama shot in the Rann of Kutch.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Producer: Kevin Feige
Director: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier, which stars Chris Evans, Scarlett Johnson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie and Frank Grillo, is expected to be a fast-paced film directed by Russo Bros.

— Dharam Pal

STAR TRACK
Age is just a number
Bollywood actors often play characters younger than their age and even pull them off. Check it out

Ranbir Kapoor: He is over 30 now and he plays a teenager in his upcoming spy film Jagga Jasoos. He also played a student in Rockstar when he was actually in his late 20s.

Hrithik Roshan: One of the finest roles in his career was that of Rohit, an intellectually disabled person in Koi Mil Gaya. He was 30 at the time and changed his body, body language and personality to fit the role.

Saif Ali Khan: In his 30s and now 40s, he has played characters who are essentially endearing pretty boys in rom-coms like Dil Chahta Hai, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Salaam Namaste, Hum Tum and Love Aaj Kal. He was the poster boy for romantic comedies with his string of hits.

Aamir Khan: He played a college student in both Rang De Basanti and in 3 Idiots when he was already in his 40s and we loved his transformation and acting in both the movies.

Dhanush: Dhanush won everyone's hearts when he debuted as a love struck boy in Raanjhanna in 2013. He was charming and convincing as the teenaged lover boy when he was nearly 30 during filming.

Boman returns:Boman Irani is the villain in Bhootnath Returns. He turned a scriptwriter for a scene in the movie. This movie is about elections and the like.

No divorce scene

If the latest rumours are anything to go by, adult star Sunny Leone is going to divorce her husband Daniel Weber. However, the Ragini MMS 2 actress vehemently denied the news and tweeted: "Absolutely unbelievable at how many lies are coming out this week. Don't believe everything you are reading. Loving my vacation with husband and family!" 

Leone, who is currently in Los Angeles for a family vacation, added, "I am completely and madly in love with @DanielWeber99. Sorry to disappoint all the guys out there. Lol."

Culinary journey
Neelu Kaura’s recipes have won her many accolades
Poonam Bindra

Chef’s corner: Neelu Kaura When Neelu Kaura, a Ludhiana resident, bagged a bronze medal at an international chefs’ meet and culinary exhibition recently, she set a glowing example for many a housewife to follow suit. Appreciation from the family and friends encouraged her to try various cuisines, fusion dishes and go in for more competitions. A simple hobby is now an avid passion.

Her real accolades started when she won the LG Mallika-E-Kitchen title for her recipe of Lasagne and Briyani Rolls, and then a bronze medal for the recipe ‘Bhurte de Nazare’. “Everybody was amazed at the combination of paneer and corn with bharta,” says Neelu. Actually the idea of innovative cooking came to her when she reworked Manchurian to suit her family’s palate!

Neelu has been acknowledged by renowned chefs in the industry for proper garnishing and presentation of dishes. At the Chandigarh Mallika–E-Kitchen Northern Chapter competition, she again won a bronze and then a consolation prize in Jaipur for the national competition of the same. Her medal in the “enthusiastic or hobby cooks category” was decided by master cooks like Chef Gissur Gudmundson, President, WACS, Manjit Singh Gill, President, IFCA and Soundarajan P, general secretary, IFCA.

Imparting her knowledge to citizens of Ludhiana, Neelu has conducted workshops with Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi at the Lakshmi Ladies Club and with renowned chef Asha Khatau at The Sutlej Club, besides taking regular classes under the banner of Mallika- e Kitchen.

“They are a good platform for anybody to showcase their skills,” she says. The young lady is all ready for forthcoming events in the culinary world.

Master Chef
Handvo handouts
Kandla Nijhowne

When daal-chaawal becomes dull and boring, a handvo can be a delightful avataar of the same! What more, handvo can be handed out as an anytime snack, warm or cold. A Gujarati delicacy, a handvo is simply a savoury cake. The list of ingredients is long but it comprises of all things easily within reach. The grated lauki lends the moist buttery texture to the handvo, making it crispy on the outside and tender within.

Ingredients

* ½ cup rice

* ¼ cup each chana, moong and urad daals

* ½ cup yogurt

* ¼ tsp haldi

* 1 cup grated lauki

* ½ cup each grated carrot and cabbage

* 1 tsp soda

* Finely chopped ginger and chillies to taste

* 1¼ tsp salt

* 1 tbsp lemon juice

* 1 tsp sugar

* ¼-½ tsp chilly powder (optional)

* 2 tbsp fresh dhaniya

For tempering (tadka)

* 3 tbsp oil

* 1½ mustard seeds

* 1 tsp jeera

* 1 tbsp sesame seeds ( til)

* A pinch of heeng

* 10-12 curry patta

Method

* Wash and soak the rice and daals separately for 4-6 hours. Drain and grind coarsely along with the ginger and green chillies.

* Add yogurt, mix well, cover and ferment overnight.

* Add the lauki, carrot and cabbage along with the lemon juice, 1 tsp oil, soda, sugar, chilli powder, haldi and salt. Mix again.

* Make the tadka by spluttering the mustard seeds and jeera in hot oil, then adding heeng, sesame seeds and curry leaves.

* Now you can make flat mini-handvos on a pan by ladling out small portions of batter one by one.

* You can also make a large batch in an oven by pouring the batter into a cake tin. The oven should be pre-heated to 200 degrees C. Baking time would be 30-40 minutes.

* Still another option is to steam the batter in a cake tin in a pressure cooker with an inch of water at the bottom of the vessel. Do not apply pressure valve.

* In all the above options, the tadka is to be pored over the batter, just prior to cooking.

* Cut handvo into squares and serve with a mint chutney. Spicy and delicious!

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert) 

Of memory & pain
A compilation of poems Rait Ka Ghar pays a tribute to Simmi Marwaha who lost her life at a young age
Mona

Rajinder Rosy Her family has kept Simmi Marwaha (Surinder Kaur) alive long after she left for heavenly abode. A young journalist, she was on duty when hit by a private bus driver. Eleven years on, Simmi has been kept alive by her well wishers in a unique manner. This year too her birthday on April 3 was celebrated by giving honours to young journalists. Also, a compilation of poems Rait Ka Ghar was released by her mother Rajinder Rosy who has done a couple of poetry collections and translations. The trust set in her name does charity works for sick and old and also provides assistance for those injured in road accidents. Rait Ka Ghar is a collection of 12 poems, nine written by the budding journalist herself.

While Mera Ghar is about the plight of a girl who finds home neither in her parent's or in-laws place; Tamasha is on a hit and run case. There are three poems dedicated to the girl too, capturing her sweet yet strong nature.

Preeto Sawhney, a colleague of Simmi, remembers her friend, "We were working together for a TV Channel. She would pick me up for office and drop me too. That fateful day she did drop me at work but didn't take me along on her journey," says Preeto who has continued to tie rakhi to her brothers ever since. Simmi Marwaha Memorial Charitable Trust continues to celebrate her birthday year after year and extending a helping hand to the needy in her memory!

Weight watch
A bad transaction
Renupreet Kaur

Trans fat is a type of unsaturated fat that behaves like a saturated fat because of its chemical structure. It increases the risk of heart disease by increasing the "bad" LDL cholesterol, while also lowering the "good" HDL cholesterol in our blood.

It's natural

Naturally occurring trans fats are found in small amounts in dairy products, beef, veal, lamb and mutton.

Artificial source

Artificial trans fats or synthetic, industrial or manufactured trans fats are caused by the way some fats and oils are processed. They are found in foods that use hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated vegetable fats, such as deep-fried and baked foods.

Trans-fats and obesity

Studies have shown a link between a diet high in trans-fatty acids and weight gain. Further trans-fat have been clinically proven to cause weight gain, even when the participants were consuming a diet that didn't include enough calories to maintain their weight.

Studies have further proved that trans-fat not only triggers weight gain but it also results in transferring the fat stored throughout the body to the abdominal region.

Recommended limits

The American Heart Association advises limiting saturated fat consumption to less than 7 per cent of daily calories and trans fat consumption to less than 1 per cent. Many food manufacturers and fast food chains have removed or reduced trans- fat.

Dos & Don'ts

* Carefully read the nutrition labels and chose brands that don't use trans-fats.

* Avoid products that list partially hydrogenated fat or oil on the label.

* Include lots of fruit and vegetables in your diet.

* Use fat-free or low-fat dairy products.

* Try to eat fewer biscuits, cakes and pastries.

*Use liquid vegetable oil for frying at home.

Poor choice

* Products that list partially hydrogenated fat or oil on the label.

* Fast food, soup and instant noodles.

* Packaged puddings, baking mixes like pre-mixed cake mixes, pancake mixes and chocolate drink mixes.

* Frozen food, frozen creamy foods or creamy beverages.

(Kaur is a Chandigarh-based diet therapist and obesity expert)

CHATTER BOX
Overcoming fear

Pooja Gor Actress Pooja Gor, who participated in reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi, is the first one to be evicted from the show. The actor, who is happy with the experience, talks about her journey and overcoming fear.

How was the experience of Khatron Ke Khiladi?

It was an awesome experience. I am genuinely glad that I took part in the show. I had a lot of fun. It was an adventure and I made good friends. It will be one of the unforgettable experiences of my life.

Are you disappointed to be evicted so early?

Yes I am, but it is fine. It is not the end of the world. My motive wasn't money or winning, but having fun and trying more stunts. My aim was to do adventurous stuff and I wish I could have done more.

Which fear did you overcome?

Earlier I was scared of needles, but now when I have get an injection I feel it's nothing as in KKK I faced snakes and crocodiles. My whole thinking has changed.

What else did you do in South Africa?

We used to have one day off in a week. The whole gang would go for lunches, clubbing, dinners and shopping. I enjoyed that.

What's next for you?

I am back and enjoying the show right now. I have no idea about the future. Will see whatever comes my way. — HRM

daring act: Pooja Gor 

Stroke of luck

Jeannie & Juju is a romantic comedy, which has Vicky and his genie that are in love with each other facing life's daily challenges. This time Ali Asgar, who essays the role of Vicky, has penned his thoughts for the upcoming track. Ali, who is a believer in luck, had some thoughts about how 'luck' could be shown as a game-changer in the series in a playful way.

Ali said. "I have deep faith in luck and its repercussions on our lives. Personally, I have faced some good and bad experiences that I would credit to the luck factor. This was a wonderful opportunity as it allowed me forward my ideology as a part of this show. The ongoing track will see a lot of funny incidents wherein even Jeannie's magic will not be of any help. It's going to be a hilarious take on how luck can change things instantly and am sure the viewers will definitely like this new twist in the tale." To catch all the fun and excitement, tune into SAB TV's Jeannie aur Juju, Monday to Friday at 9:30 pm only on SAB TV.

All in the game

The shrewd game that changed the destiny of India and became the premise of one of the world's greatest epics — The Mahabharata — is about to unfold on Star Plus. The show that captured the hearts of viewers across the country is all set to showcase the infamous 'game of dice' between the Pandavas and Kauravas, which becomes the turning point. However, little is known about the game, its players and the bets at stake. Star Plus demystifies the game of dice, unravelling not only the rules that were laid but how the players were manipulated with words.

What were the rules of the game? What happened between Pandavas and Kauravas during the game of dice? Tune in to Mahabharat's 'Game of Dice' to know more from Monday to Saturday at 8:30 pm.

Raging rumours

After multiple sightings with Gaurav Chopra, rumours cropped up that something was cooking between Sumona Chakravarti and him. But she laughs off the rumours saying they are good friends and do hang out with a group of friends. Well all smoke and no fire?

Motherhood calling

Shruti Seth, who is the popular host of Comedy Circus, is pregnant. She got married to the Break Ke Baad director Danish Aslam in 2010. The actor is over the moon about her pregnancy and glowing too.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is April 4...

You are governed by the number 4 and the planet Uranus. Your life is marked by unexpected happenings. The coming year will bring changes, which will be beneficial for you. A change in job is likely and this will bring you success as well as recognition.

The year 2014 promises to deliver endless opportunities. Starting in April, the nodes of fate will move into your stars. Speaking of love, another major bonus arrives just in time for summer when lucky Jupiter moves into your sector of romance and pleasure for a year. Health-related problems can cause discomfort.

Positive colours: Blue, Grey.

Select days: Saturday.

Favourable numbers: 2, 4, 8.

Gems recommended: Gomed, Cats Eye, Tiger Stone.

Charity on birthday: Donate white sweets or fruits to the needy or at any religious place today.

Pallavi Joshi You share your birthday with Pallavi Joshi  (April 4, Mumbai), who is a National Award winning actress. She was nominated for 'Best Supporting Actress' at the Filmfare Awards for her role as a handicapped girl in Andha Yudh. She appeared as Kasturba Gandhi in Shyam Benegal's The Making of the Mahatma.

 

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: 'Six of wands' brings a gracious and aesthetic influence in your life. You are likely to face several interruptions and disruptions, which will make it difficult for you to stay on schedule. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky colour: Ebony.

Magic number: 27.

TAURUS: You draw 'Two of wands' to invoke mental power and intelligence, which will help achieve professional goals. Work will be smooth sailing. Do not become reckless.

Tarot message: Prevent trouble

by taking timely action.

Lucky colour: Red.

Magic number: 35.

GEMINI: You are awakened and energised by fiery 'Knight of Wands'. Your innovative ideas will gain recognition if you take the care to present them properly.

Tarot message: Don't reveal your plan of action to anyone.

Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 27.

CANCER: 'The Ace of Pentacles' leads to actualisation of personal and professional plans. You will be restless and contemplating changes to your routine. You can lose your temper with loved ones.

Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health.

Lucky colour: Jade.

Magic number: 29.

LEO: 'The Lovers' inspire you with love and creativity today. Now is the time to take the initiative to implement yout favourite plans.

Tarot message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 46.

VIRGO: 'Two of wands' spins in speculation luck. You will be in an irritable mood and react aggressively when faced with dissenting views. Chance

Tarot message: Take one step at a time.

Lucky colour: Purple.

Magic number: 55.

LIBRA: 'The Ace of Wands' puts you through a touching and transforming personal experience. Caring conversation and heart-to-heart talks flow easily. Control your emotions. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far.

Lucky colour: Green.

Magic number: 26.

SCORPIO: 'The Priestess' infuses pure and exalted influences in your life. Applying for a dream job? You might just get in with your track record and qualifications.

Tarot message: Do not expect too much from others.

Lucky colour: White.

Magic number: 52.

SAGITTARIUS: 'The Wheel of Fortune' spins in some good fortune and emotional abundance. You will be unable to concentrate on your tasks at work.

Tarot message: Lack of confidence or caution can leave you in losses; so be confident.

Lucky colour: Forest-green.

Magic number: 43.

CAPRICORN: You card 'The Strength' gives you self-esteem and a good feeling about yourself today. Work will be smooth sailing and your ability to get things done will be appreciated by colleagues.

Tarot message: Don't make

hasty decisions.

Lucky colour: Deep-red.

Magic number: 41.

AQUARIUS: Your card 'Judgment' is reversed, so be careful not to let public opinion go against you. You will be enthusiastic about developments at work, but take the time to listen to colleagues. Tarot message: Try to accomplish longterm tasks.

Lucky colour: Bottle-green.

Magic number: 32.

PISCES: 'The Magician' brings a day of change and mutation, whether you want it or not. You can feel irritable and lose your temper very fast. You are bored of your routine. 

Tarot message: A useful tip at the stock exchange can be put to profitable use.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 44.





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