|
|
|
|
|
To see or not to see...
WhatsApp decided to let you know if your message has been read by blue ticks. Twitter went abuzz. So did some Chandigarh youngsters
As jokes about relationships being at serious risk now float on social media, we get Chandigarh youngsters to speak their mind. Ishan Chouhan, 22, a BTech student at Chitkara University, is dreading opening chats on WhatsApp now. "This new feature is absolutely, totally unnecessary! I mean, it was enough that we could see 'Last seen at'; did they really need to go ahead and burst our bubble? When you're ignoring someone, it's for a reason. Now, it will be a compulsion to reply to every message I read!" says Ishan. There are, however, those who don't think their social life is going to be altered by the change. "I like the new feature; it's definitely an upgrade. I like knowing that the other person has read my message. I mean, we send messages so that they can be read, right? Then why dread the notification? Whatsapp is just following the trend of BBM (Blackberry Messenger)," says Canadian citizen and Panjab University student, 21-year-old Komal. Ticks or no ticks, technology continues to tread the fine line between convenience and privacy. But it's really up to us if we let it define our relationships, isn't it?
When Twitter went aflutter
@the_bongrel -- If there's unholier than the two red lines on your pregnancy test, it's the two blue ticks on your WhatsApp. #JustWhy @mojorojo — WhatsApp is the opposite of Tinder. It's as if its entire point is to break people up. @9GAG -- Double Blue Ticks because "Last Seen" isn't evil enough. #WhatsApp @AyeshaSaeedb -- "Sorry, I didn't check #WhatsApp" Dear, I saw that
#BlueTicks.. ;) :p The game has officially begun. @rogerloayza -- There will be a before and after November 5. #BlueTicks #WhatsApp @husnainb -- #whatsapp blue ticks, the newest weapon in the #stalkers handbag @10_dye -- " baby you haven't replied my message for weeks now! " " oh you didnt get the blue ticks? Its over " #whatsapp @MrShaunMcDonagh -- What's with these mental blue ticks on #whatsapp does it mean you've read it and I can't pull the ain't seen it yet card no more @Sirlancethedj -- i got 99 problems 2 blue ticks aint 1 #whatsapp
somya@tribunemail.com
|
|
Straight to the goal post
While B-town is in a mood to court biopics, the well intentioned film-makers grab the opportunity to put the spotlight on stories that ought to be narrated and lives that should have been celebrated.
Upcoming Hindi film Prithipal Singh brings to the fore the life of Indian field hockey player Prithipal Singh. Very few know about the life of deadliest penalty corner specialist of his generation. The man with steely wrists slammed an astounding 22 goals and helped India claim three Olympic medals; in Rome, Tokyo and Mexico. "I did read up on him, about his life before we started filming. Moreover, my team briefed me about it the story as well," shares Chandigarh girl Jassi Kaur, who plays one of the lead roles in the movie. "I play a girl called Aakrity, who lives abroad. She is in awe of Prithipal Singh and wants to make a film on him. She is dissuaded by her family, boyfriend but she overlooks everything and lands up in India." It was only a matter of time, when the celluloid realities, even onscreen ones hit her. "She meets these film-makers who laugh at her. Nevertheless, she approaches several production houses and the story takes on from there." Little known that he was later employed as a deputy director for youth welfare in Punjab Agricultural University, he was gunned down by his students in 1983. The film, to be released nationwide next year, is currently being showcased at the ongoing All Sports Los Angeles Film Festival. Role models
Having done films like Rangeelay, Naughty Jatts, Chak Jawaana and as an anchor with Zee Punjabi, there was little difficulty in getting acquainted with the context and set up of the film. "I didn't have to work too much because I could relate to this character. Moreover, I loved the fact that it has been a performance oriented role. One where I could show my talent and act and not let boys take the limelight." Which is why there's been no jumping onto the comedy movies bandwagon. "I really emulate and admire Divya Dutta. I would love to do every role that she has done. I want to be known as an actress and not a heroine. I hanker for performance-oriented roles." In real life though if she were to get behind the lens and make a film, it would be nothing less than Oprah Winfrey. "She amazes me. The life she has led and how she started from a broken home and to where she has reached is an example of sheer grit and resilience." manpriya@tribunemail.com
|
|
History in the making
Jasmine Singh Film: Chaar Sahibzaade (animation) Yes, they say, in history lies all the secrets of statecraft. And if it is a chapter that has been a part of your growing up; a chapter that you often go back to for inspiration, a chapter that has been presented sensitively and beautifully on the silver screen…then of course this history is worth a watch. After a long, in fact a very long time, comes an animation film, Chaar Sahibzaade, which will go down in history as a grand affair. Directed by Harry Baweja, the animation film is the story of sacrifice and valour of four sons of Guru Gobind Singh — Sahibzaada Ajit Singh, Sahibzaada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzaada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzaada Fateh Singh. Those who know this chapter of history will relate to every bit of the story; as for those who want to know, this is like is short and trustworthy presentation. Chaar Sahibzaade, which is presented in 3 D format first time in Punjabi, will actually surprise you with its fine animation quality. Everything in this film is made extremely close to reality. The heavy baritone voice of the narrator of the film Om Puri, in fact, brings in a deep impact, taking us through the story of bravery of the Chaar Sahibzaade. The animation has been kept as real as it can get. Harry Baweja has been saying that he took almost five years to put this film together, and when you see it on screen, you know what took him so long! The beautiful part of the film is that it doesn't hurt any sentiments. The director has only used images of Guru Gobind Singh; he hasn't animated it due to religious reasons. Nevertheless, you feel his presence so strong as though he is conversing in his own way. Despite this, all the characters spell life. The dialogues will melt your heart; you will feel a lump in your throat at one moment and at the other get inspired. Given that it is an animation film never attempted before, it is a wonderful affair. The songs in the film are extremely heart-warming, especially the track Veyla aa gaya hai (Jaspinder Narula and Shipra Goyal) where Sahibzaada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzaada Fateh Singh hug their grandmother Mata Gujri for the last time. Another track Mitar pyarey nu by Amrinder Gill will warm up your heart. The film is a realistic portrayal from the chapter of history that will create another history in Punjabi cinema! jasmine@tribunemail.com
|
|||
|
Writing on the wall
A graffiti competition at Panjab University brings the best out of local artists, as they paint the walls of the dry pool on the campus...
Inked in the colours of revolution, the student centre at Panjab University stood witness to an event that clearly dismissed quite a few stigmas attached to the right of freedom of expression. While the walls got talking at the second edition of Sprite Till I Die, a competition comprising three main sections, including dance, art and music, as many as seven graffiti artists painted the walls of the dry pool at the University on the theme, Teen spirit and youth, an eight-hour long competition. Advertised mainly through social media, on Facebook and YouTube, the competition called for entries from artists across the country and is taking place across Delhi, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Mumbai, Agra and Lucknow. As we get talking to the contestants, we get to know their views on the right to expression, with a special reference to the Indian version of Banksy, named Daku, who also briefs them about their themes. "We are actually indulging in the act of official vandalism, which is quite boring as most of the graffiti that one sees abroad is politically influenced. But I like the idea of at least being able to paint the walls while beautifying them," says Aiman Verma, a student of 11th class, who is presently pursuing humanities in Ahmedabad. Sumit Chauhan, a B Tech student of Chandigarh Group of Colleges, who is an established graffiti artist, shares that he is quite influenced by Daku, a Delhi-based graffiti artist and considers graffiti as his expression of creativity. "I like the idea of painting the empty spaces with meaningful art and perspective while beautifying it; I don't see how that should be considered as an act of vandalism," he shares. As they continue working on the theme Teen Spirit and Youth, they are taped on YouTube with an aim that the graffiti video with maximum views will be declared the winner. Delhi-based graffiti artist Aakash Suri, a third-year student from the College of Art, Delhi, says graffiti should be legalised, "I really think that the graffiti should be legalised, for instance, in Haus Khas Village, Delhi, graffiti is legal and it's only a way to express ourselves. Just that one should be careful about the content that is being painted on the walls." Sharing his likes, Abhineet Kumar, a student of NIFT, Delhi, says that graffiti is like any other art and it should be legalised. Well, a little bit of colour spray never killed anyone, or did it? amarjot@tribunemail.com
|
|||
|
A worthy tribute
After producing a Marathi television serial Mahanayak, another one for Sahara One titled Chubhan and a Bhojpuri movie, singer-producer Shashi Khanna has recently launched her first music album Nach Di Ve Nach Di, which she has dedicated to her late son Vikas Khanna. She shares excerpts from her journey so far.
How did you enter the world of music? My late son, Vikas, was a famous child artiste and acted in nineteen movies. In the film Love Story, he had played the childhood role of Kumar Gaurav. I used to go for film shoots with him and got to know many big artists, including Rajesh Khanna, Jeetendra and more. I was always fond of singing and in my free time on the sets, used to sing for these people. After my son passed away, I was lost in deep sorrow. But then one day, I realised that my son always used to say that he would cut a music album for me one day. So, this album is dedication to him. How did you prepare for this album? Singing was earlier only a hobby, but I used to practice with my harmonium regularly to master the nuances of this art. Even today I practice for two hours each in the morning and the evening. My daughter Sapan Soni has always encouraged me, so I was able to come up with this album. Tell us about your album… The album is titled Nach Di Ve Nach Di and includes six songs. Six songs are in Punjabi and one in Hindi. I have included Punjabi Boliyan in this album too. I have also launched the album on Youtube and garnered a very good response. It is a solo album and the music has been given by Gurcharan
ji. What are your upcoming projects? I have not planned any show yet, but have received offers for acting. However, I have not yet decided whether I will take up acting. Right now my entire focus is on this album. — Dharam Pal
|
|||
|
Astro turf
ARIES: Now is the time to try your luck in speculative deals. Those employed will be burdened with additional responsibility without incentive. Domestic compulsions will make your life uneasy.
Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding and humility. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 36. TAURUS: Social events will be a positive stimulus for you. Those in love will have an exciting day. Hobbies will gain extra momentum. Look for the answers to your dilemmas within you. Tarot message: Resolve conflicts through discussion. Lucky colour: Camel. Magic number: 29. GEMINI: This is a perfect time to start practicing independence and develop the art of letting go. Planning for investment? Push extra cash into a safe scheme. Circumstances take a turn in your
favour. Tarot message: Keep a close watch on any niggling health problems. Lucky colour: Copper. Magic number: 34. CANCER: Think twice before you start spending your cash on a whim. You will meet an interesting person today. Teenagers: love stars twinkle. Do not disturb jointly held fund without the consent of your partner. Tarot message: Boost your confidence with positive thinking. Lucky colour: Maroon. Magic number: 33. LEO: You need to honour yourself first and foremost. Your plans for the day can be changed by others. An opportunity to work unsupervised will enhance your performance and lead to a promotion. Tarot message: Impatience will lead to failure. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic number: 30. VIRGO: A most tiring day if you have to work. Be willing to change your behaviour. Think of the positives and you will finish the day with a smile on your face. Romantic luck will boost your spirits. Tarot message: Competition will push you to do your best. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 44.
LIBRA: Inspiration is kicking around in your brain waves today. An issue that is niggling at the back of your mind should be addressed. Love life sparkles. Health is fine. Tarot message: Concentrate on what is truly important. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 32. SCORPIO: Just remember that people will not be everything they say they are. Does that apply to you too? You will be in a mood to find fault with people who are dear to you; curb this habit. Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 46. SAGITTARIUS: No matter how much you love your partner, do not compromise things that are important to you. Relationships are based on give-and-take, so make sure you go both the ways. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 50. CAPRICORN: Recognise it from an unbiased perspective and you can make quite a decent profit in the long-term. Relatives will be difficult to get along with. Do not get involved in any land deal. Tarot message: Take limited risks with you capital. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 63. AQUARIUS: Gossip at the workplace can cause unexpected problems. If you work in an area where there are language barriers, be careful of misunderstandings. Health can cause some problems. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will-power. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 59. PISCES: Think wisely before you start spending extra cash. Politicians draw flak. Do not avoid responsibility. Keep travel plans off. Romantic life takes an upswing. Tarot message: Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 48.
|
|||
|
Piku’s story
Shoojit Sircar, director of movies like Yahaan, talks about Piku which is his next film starring Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan and Irrfan. Name game
Piku is an unusual name for a girl. It's her nickname. But everyone calls her Piku, which is common with Bengalis. It's a cute, unisex name, apt for Deepika's
(Padukone) character. Unusual cast
Actually, Piku is not a love story. It's a father and daughter story. It's Piku's story, and Irrfan is one of the characters around her. It's a significant role. We rehearse for almost half the day before going in for a take. The trio has never worked together and I can see the bonding happening off camera. Unconventional choice
When Juhi (Chaturvedi) and I work on a script together, sometimes we have certain actors in mind. While writing Vicky Donor, we knew we had to get Annu Kapoor to play Dr Baldev Chaddha and Dollyji (Ahluwalia) for Vicky's mother Dolly. In the case of Piku too, we wanted Bachchanji (Amitabh) and Irrfan (Khan) but casting Piku was a bit of a dilemma. Big B’s character
He plays an elderly Bengali gentleman who could have stepped out one of Hrishida's (Hrishikesh Mukherjee) films. Having lived in Kolkata and knowing a lot of Bengalis, Mr Bachchan worked on his get-up with me. The salt-and-pepper locks, the glasses, and the paunch.
Pooja turns RJ!
Currently settled in Los Angeles for the past few years, the actor has founded and launched USA's new Bollywood favourite radio station called Mera Sangeet. Albeit, being launched recently, the stream station already boasts of massive listeners.
In addition to running the operations of the radio station, Batra will also play RJ, engaging with listeners. Additionally Indian actors such as Deepti Bhatnagar, international photographer Ash Gupta and acclaimed writer, director Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla have also been roped in by Batra to be celebrity Radio Jockeys for the fast growing radio station.
"My friends Deepti and Ash and they graciously agreed to be RJs. I am thankful to them. It is going to be a wonderful journey that I am most excited about," adds
Batra.
Anshuvijay Rode of Anjaney Entertainment and Opie Singh, with whom Batra has collaborated on this venture, also will look into the operations of the venture. In the recent past, Batra introduced numerous Indian filmmakers to Hollywood A-listers for their upcoming projects, in addition to heading an LA-based casting agency. With the various hats donned by the supermodel-actress, Batra certainly seems to flying the Indian flag high internationally.
PeeCee, the ghost-buster
Priyanka Chopra, who was recently shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's period love story Bajirao Mastani, where she plays the queenly Kashibai, is now making heads turn in the US.
The actress jetted off to Los Angeles to attend a Halloween party hosted by an entertainment portal. She was eye-catching in a quirky outfit and retro make-up.
The persona she took on was Sasha. It was an alter-ego PeeCee came up with inspired by the heroines of pop artist Roy
Lichenstein. Her polka-dotted damsel was quite a treat for the revelers. During her stay there, she also met Emmy Award winning comedienne Kathy Griffin.
She is expected to be back in Mumbai by the end of the week and will join the second schedule of her film.
Sonam replaces Rekha
Rekha endorsed Snickers chocolate and now Sonam Kapoor has replaced her in the brand endorsement. Rekha did a commercial with Urmila Matondkar for the same and the commercial was inspired by the British commercial of the same brand. Both Sonam and Rekha have been very well paid it.
Being Salman
Salman Khan left Pulkit Samrat's wedding bash to pay his last respects to dance master Jay Borade, who passed away in Mumbai at the age of 77. Salman was taking care of his health expenses.
Hush hush affair
Vivaan Shah is reportedly dating Kamal Haasan's daughter Akshara but he is mum about it. He does not want to discuss his personal life. He feels privileged that at the age of 24, he has already been part of 7 Khoon Maaf and Happy New Year.
Rapping up
Varun Dhawan has rapped in his movies and now he has rapped for a Panasonic commercial too. He had a great time doing the rapping bit. He is currently shooting for ABCD 2.
Time management
Akshay Kumar knows how to manage his time. He shoots for 240 days in a year, making four films on an average and takes regular holidays every week, a break after a movie's completion, and an annual family vacation of 45 days. He could teach discipline and how!
Hrithik’s new address
Hrithik Roshan is designing his own bachelor pad in Juhu. Alan Abraham was associated with the decoration earlier. HR has made a special space for his kids in his new house.
Bhaijaan in Jama Masjid
Bollywood stars Kareena Kapoor and Salman Khan, who are currently shooting in Delhi for their upcoming film Bajrangi Bhaijaan, recently shot at Jama Masjid. This is the second time that Kabir Khan is teaming up with the Dabangg star. Earlier, the duo has delivered the box office hit Ek Tha Tiger. Bajrangi Bhaijaan will release next year on
Eid.
Concerned couple
Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor returned from Bangkok after shooting for Jagga Jasoos and they both went to his residence to visit Rishi Kapoor who is recovering at home from dengue. Katrina stayed at his place pretty much overnight.
|
|||
|
Welcome to the family
Twin blessing
Celebrity couple Ashish Chowdhry and Samita Bangargi were blessed with twin daughters on November 3. The two actors also have a son, Agastya. An excited Ashish says, "It's a proud moment for my wife and me. Both the daughters and Samita are absolutely fine. I am happy that God has blessed us with daughters. With two cute angels coming in our life, the family looks complete. My son Agastya is very happy to be an elder brother to protect his little sisters."
Halla Bol is back
After showcasing some of the most heart-wrenching tales of women taking a stand and fighting for their respect, Halla Bol is back with another season on
Bindass. According to sources, the show will air its second season from November 30, every Sunday at 6 pm. Karan Tacker will again host it and this time the show will also have a different
flavour. |
|||
|
Rang Rasiya
Producer: Deepa Sahi, Anand Mehendroo The keenly awaited writer- director Ketan Mehta's Rang Rasiya, presented by Jayantilal Gada (Pen), is finally slated for release this Friday. Based on the life of one of India's greatest 19th century painter Raja Ravi Varma, the movie was shot at heritage at sites like Jaisalmer Palace and Vadodra. The movie stars Randeep Hooda and Nandana Sen in the lead roles along with Triptha Prashar, Gaurav Dwivedi , Vipin Sharma, Paresh Rawal, Darshan Zariwala, Suhasini Muley, Vikram Gokhale and Aashish Vidyarthi. Rang Rasiya is based on the classic Indian novel written by the award-winning novelist and playwright Ranjit Desai. This period drama deals with religious tolerance and denial of freedom of expression by fundamentalists and hardliners. In Rang Rasiya, viewers will find a perfect blend of contemporary relevance, universal appeal and cinematic experience. The Shaukeens
Producer: Akshay Kumar, Ashwin Yarde, Murad Khetani Director:
Abhishek Sharma The Shaukeens, which is a remake of 1982 film Shaukeen (directed by Basu Chatterjee), stars Annu Kapoor, Piyush Mishra, Anupam Kher and Lisa Hayden. South African model Michelle also stars in this film. Akshay Kumar has a cameo in this film and has reportedly pulled a real plane while shooting in South Africa. Abhishek Bachchan, Yuvika Chaudhary, Dimple Kapadia and Suniel Shetty also appear in cameos. Shot in South Africa and Mauritius, The Shaukeens has wonderful comic sequences. There are some good tracks composed by Arko Mukherjee, Hard Kaur and Vikram Negi. The movie has been written by Tigmanshu Dhulia and Sai
Kabir. Chaar Sahibzaade
Producer: Pammi Baweja Director: Harry Baweja Filmmaker Harry Baweja has come up with Bollywood's first performance-capture-photo- realistic film Chaar Sahibzaade. The film was released on November 6 in Hindi, Punjabi and English in 3D and 2D format. This is Harry Baweja's — the maker of 18 award-winning blockbusters — first animation film. — Dharam Pal
|
|||
|
A colourful screen
Rang Rasiya
Based on the life of the 19th-century Indian painter, Raja Ravi Varma, Rang Rasiya is an Indian drama film directed Ketan Mehta, and produced by Deepa Sahi and Anand Mahendroo. The film features Randeep Hooda, Nandana Sen and a newcomer Triptha Parashar in the lead roles. Must watch
I like the film, especially Randeep Hooda and Nandana Sen, who look really good in the film. Also, I really like the concept as it questions the freedom of expression of an artist. It's a must watch. Anahita Singh, student Amazing idea
It's a very nice concept, but I think the actors could have done well. But I really appreciate the concept and the whole idea of the film is amazing. Nikita Sharma, student Okay affair
I quite like the film, but it gets diluted in the middle where there are traces of over-acting. However, the concept of the film is really
nice. Divya Negi, student
Trio gone wrong
The Shaukeens
A Hindi comedy film directed by Abhishek Sharma, The Shaukeens features Annu Kapoor, Piyush Mishra and Anupam Kher in the lead roles alongside Lisa Haydon. Akshay Kumar features in a cameo, playing himself. The project is a remake of the 1982 film Shaukeen directed by Basu Chatterjee, starring Ashok Kumar, Utpal Dutt, AK Hangal, Rati Agnihotri and Mithun
Chakraborty.
Useless affair
I did not like the film at all. If you really want to watch it, get a painkiller along to save yourself from a headache. The film is absolutely pointless.
Jagmeet Singh, student
Waste of time
It's a useless film with pointless comedy and is a sheer wastage of time. However, Lisa Haydon looks really cool in the film.
Rubal Bansal, student
(As told to Amarjot Kaur) |
|||
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is November 8...
Scorpios work hard all their life, so that they can enjoy during their old
age. The number 8 of Scorpio zodiac makes you most powerful and emotionally
intense. Number 8 is a strong, successful and material vibration. Ruled by
Saturn, you will be ambitious, business-minded, practical, leading,
authoritative, successful, courageous, accomplished and organised. Saturn has occupied your Scorpio sign on November 2, 2014. With this transit, three Moon ascendants would be under the impact of 'Sade Sati'. These three ascendants are Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius. This would be a testing period in life, so stay optimistic. Harmony and prosperity are expected to prevail in the family. Positive
colours: Dark-blue, Dark-grey. Select days: Saturday, Wednesday and Friday. Favourable numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8. Gems recommended: Diamond, Emerald. Charity on birthday: Donate utensils to the needy.
|
|
| HOME PAGE | |
Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir |
Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs |
Nation | Opinions | | Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi | | Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail | |
It's true. Your cover on WhatsApp has been blown. Try telling her 'I did not see the message'. Go ahead, try. We dare you.
The widely used instant messaging application, WhatsApp, has decided to further complicate modern relations by turning those little grey ticks blue when your message has been read by the receiver. 
According to 25-year-old software developer Akshay Sharma, this was an inevitable upgrade. "Since WhatsApp has been bought by Facebook, this upgrade was only waiting to happen. It's the same feature as Facebook Messenger's 'read at…' feature. I do, however, know some relationships that would be hampered by the change. But, if two blue ticks can create a riff in your relationship, isn't it time to review its foundation?"
It could be a hockey hero, a chequered life, a sports icon, a brave heart…anyone. 
Known for her stellar performances in films such as Virasat, Haseena Maan Jayegi, Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye and Chandralekha (Malyalam) and Kandukondain Kandukondain among others, former Miss India and acclaimed Bollywood actress Pooja Batra has donned the entrepreneurial cap.
Chidiya Ghar is ready to welcome a new member, Chuhiya Chauhan, to their special family. Like other family members, she portrays a unique trait of a rat. She is meek and has a lot of inhibitions that she tops with her signature catch-phrase, Darte darte. Played by actress Trishikha Tripathi, Chuhiya makes everyone laugh with her timid behaviour and antics.
