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Naturally Punjabi
A Punjabi can't be aam aadmi; wherever he might be, he will always be khaas." Of course, the original showman of Bollywood Subhash Ghai, who proffers this pearl of wisdom, is more khaas than most Punjabis! It might have taken him decades to move to the Punjabi turf, but as he is all set to make his debut as the producer of Punjabi film Double Di Trouble, the entry can only be in inimitable Ghai style. And in the same 'no holds barred' manner, he parries a volley of questions. A lesser producer would have been a bundle of nerves a day prior to the release of his film. However, Ghai is almost unflappable, living up to the maxim what is a Punjabi sans a sense of humour! Over to the man who has given us blockbusters like Karz and Ram Lakhan, who might be on the verge of showing a new way to Punjabi film industry.
The Punjabi ground
Comedy caper a safer bet
You could say that. Double Di Trouble has cost me Rs 10 crores and you couldn't have expected me to make Do Beegah Zameen after investing so much.
Typical Ghai stamp
Frankly, I have not interfered with the making of the film at all; only funded it. My contribution has been restricted to signing cheques and my brother Ashok Ghai has taken over thereafter. Whether the film has higher production values or not because of my association, all I can say is every film can't be a Dhoom. One can't have 200 dancers dancing around in a story of a farmer for instance; having said that Double Di Trouble has big stars like Dharmendra and Gippy Grewal and great music too. Plus the production values are in sync with the storyline.
Business of making movies
Cinema is not the art of business, but certainly business of creative arts. Making films not only requires passion, but a lion-hearted approach as well.
Unfailing magic
Indeed, Shakespeare's Comedy of Errors has been adapted on screen many times and has been made in Hindi cinema as well and is the basis of our film too. If it is recreated in 126 languages the chances are it will be a hit in 125.
Hit hai toh fit hai
Certainly I would be happy if it does well and I get back my money. But whether my films are a hit or flop, I don't go into a reflective mode. If the film fails, I simply put the poster of the film in the backyard of my studio and move on to what's next.
Next on the anvil
Well, for the time being I am on a sabbatical as far as direction goes. I am devoting all my energies to Whistling Woods, which is a Rs 100 crore film institute and a dream project of mine. I want it to be the best in the world for this is my way of giving back to society. Education might be business, but film education still isn't.
Being proud
Punjabi enterprise is unparalleled. Punjabis are never complacent; they love to be in a flux and thrive on crisis. So much so, that if one endeavour succeeds they are ready with another project and yet another. I have the same Punjabi DNA and have been a pioneer in many fields — be it film distribution or film education. Oh yes, I share the same foibles as my Punjabi brethren too. In short, he lives life king-size and be it making of the film or everyday routine, he treats it like a big party. nonika@tribunemail.com
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Cut to the screen
Hailing the new era of independent Indian cinema, the Chandigarh Creative Cinema Circle in association with Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi announces the third edition of Chandigarh Cinema Festival. Commencing on August 29, the three-day festival aims to engage the youngsters’ interest in independent film-making while screening films that have won the National Award.
"The basic aim behind organising this festival is to promote independent films among the youth, thereby giving them a break from the commercial cinema, which looks at the audience as a customer who, at best, sells popcorns at the cinema halls," says Sudarshan Jayal, a pass-out from NSD and Film Institute of Pune. While talking about the festival and their choice, AP Mishra, who has been associated with the festival right from its inception, shares that he, along with Suradshan and Gurpal Singh —who has done several shows on television, including Chashme Baddoor on Zee TV — wanted to give the Chandigarh youth an insight into realistic cinema. "In over 20 films that we will be screening at the Government Museum auditorium, Sector 10, one would realise that this kind of cinema is crude in the sense that it does not sugarcoat the reality and therefore triggers the sensibilities of the masses, as humans and not customers," he says. At the festival, National Award-winning films, including Candles In The Wind, Biswaprakash and Gulabi Gang will be screened in the presence of its filmmakers. "It is imperative that the filmmakers be present while the film is being screened and we treat that as a priority issue," says AP Mishra. While Candles In The Wind and Dammed will be screened on the first day of the festival at 4.30pm, on the second day short films will be screened from 2 pm to 5pm, including A Ride Through The Heart by Pankaj Trivedi and Biswaprakash by Sushant Mishra. On the third day, Udeek by Gaurav Rana, The Merchant of Death by Rishav Rastogi, Taakat ki Forklore and Delhi NCR Ki Folklore, The Sunflower, Six Strands, Phoring and Gulabi Gang by Nishtha Jain will be screened from 11 am onwards. amarjot@tribunemail.com
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All for speed!
Team Chandigarh Adventure Sports (TCAS) and Northern Motorsport are all set to bring to Chandigarh Round 1 of The Solo Challenge National Championship on August 30 and 31. Round 2 of the championship will be organised at Jaipur in November. The final round will be held over the Formula 1 racing track at Buddh International Circuit, Noida, in January 2015.
The Solo Challenge is a highly popular format of motorsport worldwide. It is a single driver, single stage and single day event in its particular category. This is the only event of its kind in the country being held as a national championship. In the US, most states organise their own solo motorsport challenge. Northern Motorsport is part of the organising team for the Indian Grand Prix — the Formula 1 Race held at the Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida. Northern Motorsport organizes all the other motorsport events held on the Formula 1 track. The Delhi-based motorsport club is also the organizer of The Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm, which completed its 12th edition in 2014. The event is divided in two categories: Moto and Auto. — TNS
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Sari special
Taj’s in-house lifestyle store Taj Khazana will present its collection of Varanasi weaves in an exclusive 'Trunk Show' at Taj Chandigarh on August 29-30. Taj Khazana will have a collection of meticulously hand-woven saris, salwar dress material and dupattas. Benarasi saris have historically been considered among the finest saris in India. Known for their gold and silver brocade or zari, intricate design and opulent embroidery these saris take anywhere from 15 days to a year to weave.
Some classic designs that will be on display include: Jamawar: Each Jamawar sari is a shimmering tapestry of intricate design, in colours that range from the traditionally deep, rich shades to delicate pastels. Jaangla: As the word implies, it borrows motifs from the rich foliage of a jungle. Several other motifs or booti such as Bagh Boota (bunch of flowers), Pankha Booti (fans), Kairee motif, Phool booti and Jaal booti can be incorporated to enhance or reinvent the style quotient. — TNS (There will be a special festive offers of up to 30% off)
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One for the bride
Blushing Bride, a two-day Wedding Lifestyle Exhibition & Interior Expo, will open at Hotel Bella Vista on August 30. The exhibition will be on till August 31 and have as many as 40 exhibitors who will bring the best in wedding couture, fashion, accessories and interiors under one roof.
This was announced at a media meet organised to give a feel about what is in store for fashion enthusiasts at the exhibition. Said Anjali and Rakesh Makin of Sparkle Event & Management, "We have tried to make the two-day exhibition a one-stop shop for all types of fashion, be it formal or even casual-wear. Apart from the tri-city, fashion designers are also coming from Delhi, Kolkata and Ludhiana. The unique aspect of the exhibition is that it will showcase a wide array of home interior products."
— TNS
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The clean chit
While some may argue that the word 'superfood' is yet another marketing invention, there's no denying the fact that some foods are indeed more beneficial for our bodies than others. We've taken the onus, thus, of making more informed citizens out of you and here we present a list of superfoods that have changed people's outlooks over the years.
What's different about our list? All of the foods listed below were, at one point of time or the other in history, touted to be harmful for the body! Latest research, however, leads us to believe otherwise.
Choco cheer
Fungi flavour
Natural remedy
Generous garlic |
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Kids should not watch Mardaani because of its language: Aamir
Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, who had praised actress Rani Mukherjee for her work in Mardaani, has said young children should not watch the film, primarily because of "kind of language" used in it. "There are some words in the film that I will not want children to watch. I don't want young children to see it because of the kind of language it has and I don't want very small children to see violence (on screen)," Aamir told reporters here at an event. Rani had said that she wanted to send the film to the Censor Board for re-certification and wanted to campaign for a new category that allows children above 12 years to watch a film like Mardaani. Asked about this, Aamir disagreed and said the film should not be shown to children, primarily because of the kind of language it has. "Rani may have a different opinion and I respect Rani highly. I have seen the film and the film has certain amount of violence," he said. Mardaani is an intense police drama and it tackles the sensitive subject of trafficking, wherein Rani plays the role of a police officer. Mardani was awarded an A-certificate and has managed to get a good opening. Aamir said children should not be exposed to violence and adult content through films. "Now, I am not talking about Mardaani. I think most absurd and strange things are shown in some films which are U or U/A. I cannot believe how it is shown in the film. I think we should be careful about what we are exposing our children to," he said. — PTI
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Rani Mukerji is keen on revising the "A" certificate of Mardaani not because she wants more footfalls but because the film needs to be seen by 12 year-olds and teenagers so that they understand the dangers that surround them. Many parents and NGOs have written to her that they want their children to see the movie.
Rani Mukerji
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Jolie, Pitt wed in Chateau Miraval, France
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt were married on Saturday in Chateau Miraval, France, says a spokesman for the couple.
Jolie and Pitt wed in a small chapel in a private ceremony attended by family and friends. In advance of the nondenominational civil ceremony, Pitt and Jolie also obtained a marriage license from a local California judge. The judge also conducted the ceremony in France. The couple's children took part in the wedding. Jolie walked the aisle with her eldest sons Maddox and Pax. Zahara and Vivienne threw petals. Shiloh and Knox served as ring bearers, the spokesman says. —AP
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Big gain
Siddharth Malhotra has to get a new wardrobe as he has gained nearly ten kilos training for the remake of Warrior. He is also practicing martial arts.
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Vivek Oberoi to helm Guinness blood donation campaign
Vivek Oberoi has always been the first one to lend a hand when someone needs it the most! Here the actor is once again supporting the noble cause of blood donation. He is seen supporting the Mega Blood Donation drive organised by Akhil Bhartiya Terapanth Yuvak Parishad (ABTYP), and Oberoi Nation Building and Empowerment (ONE), the actor's maiden NGO.
The actor first donated blood in his late school days then continued donating blood through college. He also went ahead and became the brand ambassador for the Cancer Patients Aids Association in 2002. Vivek has realised that the dearth of blood is the reason for the increased number of deaths. Hence, his mega blood donation drive is being organised across 300 Indian cities on September 6, to spread awareness and educate people on how to go about donating blood and save life. Vivek goes about claiming that this blood donation drive is not only going to be the biggest camp in India, but also across the world. Adding to the claim, the actor said, "The officials of the Guinness Book will be there. I hope we make a world record because then it will inspire many other Indians to contribute to the cause." Vivek is not just all words, no action! On the D-day he and his wife Priyanka will be donating their blood together to give the drive some momentum.
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Return ticket
Ameesha Patel recently shot an ad in Thailand for a Pakistani cooking brand which was directed by Sohum Shah. She has returned to Mumbai and will resume work on her production, Desi Magic.
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Secret is out
For those who did not know, rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh is married. He had kept his wife and personal life under wraps but she stepped out on a reality show that he is part of and her name is Shalini. He got so nervous that he needed a doctor but we are happy for the couple.
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Big miss
Salman Khan is going to Los Angeles for his medical check-up and will not be in Mumbai during the Ganpati festival. He will be back on September 13.
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On the move
As a part of the promotion of Nautanki Films' Ekkees Toppon Ki Salaami, Neha Dhupia unveiled the autumn-winter collections of Reliance Footprints. Talking about the association Neha Dhupia said, "We did a wonderful tie-up for the film Ekkees Toppon Ki Salaami with Reliance Footprint, where I play the character of Jayaprabha and if I was not complaining a single day at work is not only because of the production quality but because of the wonderful shoes I got to wear. And I have to say not only as Jayaprabha but also as Neha, who is a person who is always on the move."
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Bobby makes a splash, again
Everyone who has watched the trailer of Finding Fanny has loved the way each character has been portrayed. For most people, it was Dimple Kapadia's character that brought a smile to their faces. Dimple, who plays a bottom heavy Goan lady in Homi Adajania's next, had to sport a prosthetic derriere to look the part. Dimple is not only a seasoned actress but also has a great sense of humour. When Homi approached her for the role, she teased him saying that she made a splash as Bobby and was considered one of the most beautiful actresses around.
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Failure taught me more than success: Emraan Hashmi
Actor Emraan Hashmi, who was last in 2013 comedy caper film Ghanchakkar, returns to silver-screen after a year with his latest film Raja Natwarlal. The 35-year-old actor talks about his upcoming films, completing 11 years in Bollywood and more...
What made you accept Raja Natwarlal? How was it working with Humaima Malick? It was great. She is a natural. She has done films in Pakistan before. She knows how to face the camera. Her character is crucial in the film as she brings romance and then there's drama surrounding it. She's refreshing in the film. This is your first release of the year. Do you have a lot of expectations? Absolutely, we have been working on this film for the past year. It means a lot to us. From shooting to editing, we all have really worked hard on this film. Sometimes films are made with good intentions but still they don't turn out to be as good. But this film has it. I have seen it and I really like it. So I definitely have a lot of expectations. How do you stay fit and energized? I have started to stay fit now. Two years back I used to be very laidback. Now I try and watch what I eat. I avoid junk food and all unhealthy stuff. I keep my disciplined and I also workout from time to time. The trick is to maintain a balance. Do not be overly obsessive about things. It's okay to slip, let yourself binge some times. You will reunite with Vidya Balan for Humari Andhuri Kahani. After The Dirty Picture and Ghanchakkar, this will be our third film together. It is an interesting story and we are both are equally excited for it. I always enjoy new challenges and new ideas. So I am looking forward to working on this film. You recently completed 11 years in the industry. How would you describe your entire journey? Oh, it's been great and overwhelming. It's been high and low. Honestly, I never want to be an actor or get into Bollywood. But it so happened and the audience just accepted me. I have done many films in last 10 years and played many characters. Some films did well and some didn't. But I learn more from my failures than my success. I have learnt a lot. So it's been quite a journey. What's next? After this, I will start shooting with Vidya for Hamari Adhuri Kahaani. I shot for Mr. X in South Africa earlier this year and there are some parts left to finish so I will do that. I also have two films Ungli and White Lies which are in post-production stage. Both will release next year.
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Taking on a new role
Actor Arjun Bijlani, who got married to Neha Swamy in May 2013, is going to be a father in real life in January 2015. When contacted, Arjun said, "Yes, it's true, my wife is expecting. I hocked initially and didn't know how to react to the news. I was happy-nervous and excited and I am now only happy. We didn't plan as such, but we were sure we would like to be young parents, because things should happen at the right time and family planning is one of them. I don't think being a parent affects my life or career in any negative way. Instead, a child brings positivity in life. I am waiting to see how my son or daughter will look, but there is a long wait as of now. It doesn't matter if it's a boy or a girl; it's ours." About fatherhood, he adds, "I feel it will fill the vacuum in my life. I lost my father, Sudarshan Bijlani, when I was just 19. It was difficult to stand on my own feet, as my biggest guide wasn't there to tell me wrong from right. I had his blessings, and I have come up in life with a lot of struggle and hard work. The word papa has been missing from my life for so long. That will be back. My wife Neha is constantly reading books and searching for information on the net about pregnancy and what are the dos and don'ts." On being asked about doing TV, he says, "I am open to the idea of doing television. I can surely strike a balance between TV and films."
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More than friends
Vikas Manaktala, who did Main Naa Bhoolungi, has now admitted to being in love. He has been dating Gunjan Walia of Ghar Ki Laxmi Betiyaan fame for a while. They were friends for a long while before realising there was something special.
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Two’s company
Hiten Tejwani loves to share his food but apparently when his wife Gauri Pradhan visits him for lunch, his co-stars from Pavitra Rishta don't get to share his food. Gauri and Hiten are glad to be shooting in the same studio for different shows, as this way they get to spend time together.
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Mohit to play Krishna?
Buzz was that Life OK's long-running show Devon Ke Dev Mahadev is ending soon. Now rumours are that producer Nikhil Sinha is working on a new show called Krishna and it will star Mohit Raina in the lead. The channel will get new shows in October and a line-up is being considered.
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Making a debut
Singer Shibani Kashyap will make her acting debut in the TV show Ek Veer Ki Ardaas...Veera. She will play a famous but down on her luck singer Megha, who has an arrogant image. She will mentor Ranvi and make him a success.
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Alia unplugged
She is currently the most-talked about female actor, the face of many brands and a recent favourite of the nation. In just two years, Alia Bhatt is the most promising newcomer but that doesn't stop her from leading a normal life filled with concerns about career, life and love.
Alia says, "I prefer calling Karan (Johar) over my father for advice on my films. I even go to him for concerns related to relationships as my father thinks no man will ever be good enough for me." This week on Look Who's Talking with Niranjan Iyengar, Alia speaks about her relationships with the different men in her life and her dreams. And by the way, did you know Alia is scared of plants? When questioned about her link-ups, she quotes, "Two good-looking people are bound to get attracted to each other, who knows I may or may not have taken it forward."
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n the upcoming episodes of Maharana Pratap, having found love in Ajabde, Pratap tries his level best to convince her to accept his marriage proposal. Unfortunately, Ajabde's decision is highly influenced by Rani Dheerbai and Umadevi. They are keen on Pratap choosing Phoolkanwar as his life partner.
However, Pratap adamantly presses on his decision to get engaged to Ajabde. On the other hand, Bairam Khan is brought to Agra as a prisoner.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is August 29... Positive colors: Golden, red, brown, cream, aqua and teal Select days: Sunday and Monday Favourable numbers: 1, 4, 2 and 7 Gems recommended: Yellow sapphire, red coral, ruby. Charity on birthday: Donate yellow laddoos, maal pua, modak today.
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Astro turf
ARIES: It will be the minor pinpricks that provoke you. Workers in the factories will cause a number of delays. Home life will cause some interference. Newly married will find home atmosphere tense. Tarot message: Put your terms and conditions in writing.
Lucky colour: Pomegranate red Magic number: 32. TAURUS: Your card, Four of Wands, promises an excellent day. Fatigue, monotony! Take a break. Do not feel guilty about taking time out to look after your well-being both mental and physical. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 42. GEMINI: Charm, diplomacy, respect and cooperation are far better attributes to employ in dealing with people if you want positive results. Job applications yield good results. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 65. CANCER: Be prepared for multiple invitations to social events and gatherings. Your family may be having a get together to renew the spirit of the clan. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 36. LEO: Doing a spell of overtime or catching up with work at home would help pay the bills.Your desires seem to have no end, but your bank account will dry up before your wants. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy on others. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 33. VIRGO: A healthy competition instinct can be harnessed for greater accomplishment. There may be trouble brewing in the family that would benefit from a sensible voice of reason. Tarot message: Versatility will bail you out of a situation. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 64.
LIBRA: Doing overtime, an urgent job or dealing with a crisis are all possible reasons for being dragged back to the workplace. Make the best of it by doing what must be done quickly and effectively. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 24. SCORPIO: You should give a serious thought to your business. Decisions that need to be made, especially involving career, should not be put off. You have the courage to bite the bullet. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54. SAGITTARIUS:
A major domestic purchase can be made with confidence, but may not be available until next week. Be patient, though you want it immediately. Students: you can be successful in tests. Tarot message: Take limited risks with you capital. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 60. CAPRICORN: Put knowledge into practice or learn how to do something better. Working women: be careful while dealing with clients. Children may enjoy the company of their parents. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid in-build delays. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 29. AQUARIUS: Your card is, Fortune; this can be a good day on the financial front. Try your luck at a range of speculative possibilities. Women, take care of your health. Tarot message: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 61. PISCES: Schedule a group meeting today; they can be both productive and enjoyable. Selling big goals may seem unrealistic. If you shoot for what you really want, it just might happen. Tarot message: Work could pose minor difficulties; don't worry. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 55
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My tryst with Punjabi cinema goes back in time. Way back in 1974, I acted in a Punjabi film called Sherni. More recently we moved into regional cinema production and have made films in Bengali as well as Marathi. Being a Punjabi it was only natural that I would make a Punjabi film, but the atmosphere was not congenial. Besides, I had to first create Subhash Ghai.
The script was the main reason. It's a mainstream commercial film yet it has all the elements. It has comedy, drama, romance, thrill, suspense and a fantastic climax. When I read the script, I knew I had to do this film. There was no way I could have missed it. It's kind of film that will make you jump in your chair. You have to watch it to know it. It is really exciting.
You share your birthday with Akkineni Nagarjuna, popularly known as Nagarjuna (August 29, 1959, Chennai), who is a popular Telugu cinema actor and a successful producer. While working on Khuda Gawah in Afghanistan, Nagarjuna fell in love with the region so much that he bought a huge property there but later sold it after 9/11.