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Sahnewal lad is 72 The heartthrob for many decades, Dharmendra, turns 72 today. Nirupama Dutt pays a fond tribute to the most durable hero to have emerged from the Punjabi heartland.
Village
roots
The presence of Dharmendra Bhaji in a film meant sure-shot
success among the Punjabis, inviting claps, catcalls, whistles and
general exuberance. Born on December 8, 1935, in Sahnewal off Ludhiana,
arrived in Bombay town as a winner of the Filmfare talent contest with
nothing to speak for him but macho good looks and confidence galore.
Film journalist describes him as an ‘awfully’ nice guy to know and
remarks: "I remember Garam Dharam, as he came to be known
later, as a humble,sincere and conscientious young man." To begin
with, he met with flop after flop but his presence as the earnest doctor
in Bimal Roy’s Bandini, gallantly offering to Nutan,who had
served imprisonment for murder, brought him notice. In the early 1960s
he featured in heroine-dominated films but made his presence felt even
when he was pitted against major histrionics of a Mala Sinha or a Meena
Kumari. There were murmurs of a romance with the declining Meena and
their film Phool aur Pathar in 1966 proved to be a great
hit.
Remarkable roles
Look back and one is reminded of many remarkable
roles that the Sahnewal lad played but one of them still has the power
to have one rocking with laughter. It was the drunken scene in which he
threatens to kill himself if the heartless aunt of Basanti, the tongewali
played by Hema Malini, of course, did not give her niece’s hand in
marriage to him. The dialogue chakki peesing and peesing had
everyone in splits. Two decades later Anupam Kher re-enacted the scene
in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun and had everyone laughing still. It is not
easy to keep the spell going generation after generation but our Dharam Bhaji
had it in him.
Serious cinema
Dharmendra came onto the scene when the
ruling stars were Dilip Kumar, Ashok Kumar, Devanand, Sunil Dutt and of
course the Kapoor brothers. All of them barring Shammi had a romantic and
classy image. Garam Dharam, on the other hand, exuded a raw sensuality
that was to be vulgarised later by a Govinda and turned into a bare-all
act by John Abraham in these times. Dharmendra went straight to the
hearts of the cine goers playing the fool as he sang Main jat yamla
pagla diwaana But this is not to say that he did not get his
share of serious cinema. Dharmendra gave evocative performances in films
like Anupama, Devar, Baharein Phir Bhi Aayeingi, Satyakam and
others. Some of the best songs of Bollywood were picturised on him like Pukar
Lo in Khamoshi and Ya dil ki suno in Anupama.
His second marriage to Hema Malini was raked up when he stood
for elections for the 14th Lok Sabha on a BJP ticket. However, his
supporters just brushed away the scandal that he had converted to Islam
and named himself Dilawar Khan because all is fair in love and war. His
various guffaws including demanding a dictator for the Indian democracy
and coming in support of apni kudhi Sonia Gandhi, embarrassed the
Party but he was elected nevertheless.
Face to face
One came face to
face with Dharmendra in 1994 when late Beant Singh, Punjab CM, decided
to honour Bombay Punjabis. He was drunk at the afternoon press
conference and incredibly handsome. He kept making a face and saying:
"Aine sallan baad mile ho, koyi prem-payar di gal karo. Ai ki
swal puchhi jaande ho!!" And wasn’t it not endearing!
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Cool Mum
Vivacious, lively and young at heart Kirron Kher swept everyone off their feet with her theth Punjabi accent and demeanour. Clad in a red and white polka dots salwar-kameez, Kiron looked every inch a punjaban. Perhaps the most sought after ‘urban mum’ in Bollywood, Kirron relates to the script of ‘Mummy ji’, for which she is currently shooting in the city in more ways than one. Firstly, the project belong her close friend from Chandigarh, Pammi’s directorial debut and of course the obvious one, Chandigarh. So how different is Mummy ji’s character from the ones that she has already played? “Well, Mummy ji is a Punjabi mum who speaks English in Punjabi accent, has big ambitions for her kids, is very lively and computer savvy and has diverse marriage plans for her son and daughter,” reveals Kirron. For Kirron who believes that Bollywood heroines have a shelf life of 10 years, it’s only because of the revival of Hindi cinema that actresses like her have managed a come back. And what a comeback it is! From Praminder Parkash, aka ‘Bobby’ in Hum Tum to ‘Mitro’ in Rang De Basanti and of course ‘Chandramukhi’s’ mother in Devdas and Shahrukh’s mum in Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna to the more serious ones like that in Khamosh Paani and Sardaari Begum, Kirron has added flavours to the characters. But a real life mum is definitely a strict mum than a reel life one. A fact that Kirron swears by, who is like any other worried mother for her children in real life. Of all her reel motherly roles which one is close to her heart? Mitro in Rang De Basanti, comes as a reply. “The backdrop of the film reminded me of my old aunts and my ancestors and I feel that is the place I belong to,” reasons Kirron. However, her affinity to do a ‘Punjabi Mummy ji’ ends with just the character for when she was asked about doing Punjabi films, she replied that it would be akin to do a medium-grade Hindi film. At the same time she believes as an actor what interests her is the role she plays, irrespective of the language. “I want to portray ethnically deep-rooted characters irrespective of the fact that whether it’s a South Indian or a Bangla film. Only then I would be able to add shades to the character,” avers Kirron. But there is another side as well to this otherwise cool and understanding mum on screen. It’s the plight of old people being neglected by their kids and the special children that shakes Kirron Kher. “As a woman, a mother, I feel I don’t have the emotional strength to see the quandary of special children,” says a visibly disturbed Kirron. Kirron also happens to be the ambassador of an NGO, Ladli, working towards the declining sex ratio and female infanticide. Kirron would be seen as a screen mother once again in her soon to be released film, Apney, Just Married directed by Meghna Gulzar and also in an English flick titled It Could Be You where in she plays the role of a sardarni based at Southall in London along with Nasserudin Shah. So folks, watch out for this coolest mum on screen!
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French interiors are certainly not limited to stiff formal living replete with rich grandeur and exceedingly luxurious furniture and accessories. French rustic sensibilities are equally charming and refreshing. Let’s entice a little bit of French designs into our homes. A stunning arched window will invite any visitor to sit and enjoy the view from the bay window or a low height window. Don’t forget to include a coffee table and deep sofa along with a few porcelains and a beaten old needlepoint rug opposite a live fireplace. Put a lace tablecloth or tapestry runner over a coffee table to add a quintessential charm to your living room. Have fully upholstered dining chairs with French polished legs gleaning underneath along with a magnificent walnut or chestnut table. The Provence style chest could also serve as the buffet cabinet. Let Colorful red and yellow pottery fill the shelves of Country French style open faced china cabinet. Original mustard color paint finish on walls will resplendently brighten up any dull interior. Alternatively, an antique mahogany table and ladder-back chairs lend an inviting look to the dining room. Use small motifs on the walls to complement the exposed wood tones. Each detail including rush seats, vintage chest, rooster-themed accessories, plants, and sunflowers will underscore the French theme Red, white, and black is a classic French color scheme. Pair patterned fabrics and an area rug with golden walls and solid green upholstery. French pottery on the mantel and wooden ceiling beams add texture and character. Copper pans hanging over the kitchen cooker and a terracotta tile floor is immensely practical surface with style. Let the kitchen glean its personality from detailed limestone countertops and flooring, as well as vintage accessories. A glass-front cabinet sitting on the counter, will be reminiscent of a French bakery. Classic porcelain designs translate into an artistic display when hung symmetrically on the wall. A skirted table echoes the look with an arrangement of more blue-and-white pieces. Golden sconces, candles, and antique chairs give the space its French feel. A pair of lanterns hung in place of a traditional chandelier, giving a more casual feel to your dining room. Long drapery panels and striped wallpaper will visually increase ceiling height. In the master bedroom, new furnishings, painted black, will fit well with vintage accessories, including a blanket chest with its original finish. Keep a linen chaise nestling in front of a window for lounging. Near the end of the bed, a set of doors may be dressed in a striking black checked fabric, accented with a smaller check and plain black borders. Why not add character to your home office too? A painted library table may be used as a desk, paired with a linen covered slipper chair in blue and white. Blue accessories on the walls and desk will reinforce the theme. The windows may also be dressed in complementary patterns of blue stripes. Cuddly chenille-covered sofas may be piled high with tapestry accent pillows, but the real star of the room could be the warm coloured floor tiles, preferably underneath the magnificent oversize arched windows. Touches of pottery, along with a scheme of red and gold, add Country French flair. Have a look around your room and check how French are you. Courtsey: A.P. Singh Besten & Co
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Britney needs sorting out
Britney Spears mum, Lynne, has apparently decided to sort her girl out, before it’s too late. Sources say that while Lynee “was relieved when Spears dumped husband Kevin Federline,” she is devastated over her daughter’s recent behaviour that has included flashing her crotch and generally behaving like a party animal. According to the Mirror, she’s worried Britney’s partying antics might influence judge’s decision to grant her custody of her two young sons, and has hence ordered her pop star daughter to stop clubbing, and come home to Louisiana. However, Lynne Spears is always on the other end of the phone in Louisiana to bring Britney back down to ground and remind her of her responsibilities as a mother. “She has seen Britney showing off her backside, displaying her boobs and par tying up a storm with Paris, and thinks it’s tacky,” revealed Britney’s pal Marina Watts. No regret over porn past
Meanwhile Chan has launched his own line of cosmetic products in his native Hong Kong. The actor started his new venture in partnership with Chinese businesswoman Maggie Chu. According to China Daily, the skincare products at ‘The Jackie Chan Organic Skin Care Line’ are packaged with recycled materials, and are made from “natural ingredients that don’t pollute.” The launch of Chan’s cosmetic line was announced by him on his website. He already runs a diverse range of businesses, including fitness clubs, restaurants, a clothing label and cookies. Paltrow ‘proud to be an American’
Oscar winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow is “deeply upset” over stories claiming she made anti-American remarks, insisting that she did not say anything against her native country.
“First of all I feel so lucky to be American. When you look at the rest of the world, we’re so lucky, and that’s something my dad always instilled in me. I feel so proud to be American,” Paltrow was quoted by People Magazine as saying. The actress has recently been criticized for her remarks about the US in a Portuguese newspaper Diario De Noticias, which quoted her as saying, “The British are much more intelligent and civilised than the Americans.” However Paltrow says that she was misunderstood and her real message was lost in translation. “I felt so upset to be completely misconstrued and I never, ever would have said that. I definitely did not say that I think the British are more intelligent and civilized than Americans. I am a New York girl, that’s how I always think of myself and see myself,” she added.
The actress, who lives part-time in London with her British husband, Coldplay singer Chris Martin, and their two children, Apple, 2, and Moses, 7 months, says: “I live in England half the time because I’m married to a British guy. It’s not like I’ve left America.” As for the origin of the quotes, Paltrow says she did not give an interview to the Portuguese daily newspaper, though she did give a press conference - in Spanish - for an endorsement she did in Spain.
“This is what I said. I said that Europe is a much older culture and there’s a difference. I always say in America, people live to work and in Europe, people work to live. There are positives in both. Obviously I need to go back to seventh-grade Spanish!” she said. Miller the
perfect choice
Heather Mills considers Sienna Miller as the ‘perfect’ choice to play her in a movie adaptation of her life.
Film production company ‘Working Title’ have reportedly approached the estranged wife of Sir Paul McCartney to obtain movie rights of bringing her story to life on the big screen, and the proposed project will focus on Heather’s marriage to the ex Beatle, followed by separation and acrimonious divorce battle. And the former model, 38, is keen on the Alfie star portraying her because she believes they both share similar traits. “Heather has been approached by someone at Working Title about a movie based on her life. It will cover her version of being married to Paul and focus on her charity work. Heather sees herself in Sienna Miller. She thinks Sienna is great and gutsy,” The Post Chronicle quoted a source, as telling Britain’s Daily Star newspaper. Meanwhile, Heather is desperate to land a part in her favourite TV show - Desperate Housewives, and has contacted the producer of the series pleading for a part.
“Desperate Housewives is her favourite programme and she really believes she would be ideal in the show. She has emailed the producer and is waiting for a response,” said a source.
— ANI
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Aesthetically Asia These “emerging” Asian artists have come together under the unusual moniker, ‘Flux Asia’ and as the name suggests, this exhibition is about the constant ebb and flow of impressions, cultures and aesthetic values that these fourteen young people gathered from all over the world, to bring their art. Seeped in the traditional influences that art school in Shantiniketan exerts on them, each still brings his own influences into the fray making for an exhibition that is delightfully idiosyncratic. Hardeep Singh’s work is marked by what he refers to as “photo-realistic work”. Working with objects like flowers, vegetables, fruits, he makes them so large that they lose their identity and take on an abstract appearance. “In this way you enjoy the colour and form alone,” he explains. His rendition of a tomato, an orange in negative image and even a cabbage are all manifestations of his unique style. Also playing with photo-realism is Surdarshan
Rajpuri. His acrylics on canvas bring to the fore the forces of urban development and western cultural influences on our lives and environment in striking colours and strong images. “A visual has to be strong. What is behind it or beyond it is for later,” he insists. Playing with shadows, albeit in different ways are Preeti Mahajan and Randeep
Kranti. Preeti works with terracotta, metal and fibre glass creating sculptures where shadows occupy pride of place. A leaf stretched out its contours broken up and the shadows of men find reflection in glass are to Preeti manifestations of ‘a positive impact since shadows are formed of light’. Similarly Randeep finds his poetry in photographs where light and shadow play teasingly, cunningly and alluringly with one another in a series of beautiful pictures. Bringing a totally different dimension to the exhibition is Pritpal Singh’s lithographs which are simply an extension of a daily-diary he writes in his mind’s eye. “I make whatever I think of,” he says and his mastery over his medium is a result of deep exploration evident in the contrasts he manages to achieve where black is pitch black and grey is formless. Peer carefully and you will see glimpses of his yearning for his home in Punjab in the images. Art for Binu Thomas is the way to achieve a ‘state of calm’. He does not believe suffering can create true art, “because without calmness nothing can be shaped.” Searching for his personal truth through art is one way of finding that state of bliss of absolute void or
shunya. The other is to follow the heart and so this intense artist also dabbles in Sanskrit studies and has recently submitted his research on tantrik mandalas which also find expression in his art. His wife, Kathrin K. Binu combines her installations with her paintings to create different textures and meanings to her art as a process of conscious meditation—to reach a state of self-realisation, “a mirror” which shows her who she is. However, diversely beautiful are the works of the three Thai artists. Krisana Chavanakunakorn draws from traditional temple art of Thailand (derived from the Ramayana) drawing on the darker side of man through his prints while Wasana Srisang celebrates the rural villages around Shantiniketan in a miniature style infused with her own traditional art background. Lovely forms and colours create their own language that is indeed lyrical. Similarly Verapat Sitipol’s delightfully vibrant works are influenced by the mythologies and rituals of India with even the Buddha finding form in one of his paintings. Finally Japanese artist Ai Nakagawa’s explorations of the abundance of clay in Indian life is evident through the lamps, mushrooms and glazed tiles she creates (traditionally she says, Japan uses clay for table-ware and not craft work) while Misato Shimizu’s acrylics on canvas tries to capture the spirit of nature in India. “The feel of the wind, the colours from nature there is so much to sense. Here I see so much red all around, in saris and even the earth beneath us. Similarly the green is so deep, so lush,” she smiles and indeed her works do capture this essence. The exhibition is on at the Museum of Fine Arts, Panjab University till December 9. |
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Spark of wisdom Even before we put forward our question on what exactly kindled a spark in him to compile the book, Kindle the Spark, which was released amid much fanfare at the Rotary Zone Institute recently, Shaju Peter makes his stand clear, “I am not a writer. All I have written for this book is the acknowledgement bit that appears on the back cover.” But why was he chosen for the task? “I had a little writing experience during my school and college days.” Nice to know the other side of this otherwise hard-core businessman who runs Daftech Engineers Pvt. Ltd. that deals with industrial waste-water treatment all over the world. Stories and the sayings came to him easily, some from his friends all over the globe and some from the Internet. “People were too willing to share those stories,” he let us know. Not only that, he and his team managed to get sponsors for each piece. “We manage to rope in plenty of sponsors for the articles. One had to pay Rs 7, 500 for one piece. In fact we raised about Rs 3.9 lakh which was used to hold that gigantic event,” he informs. “It was an enriching experience, going through these stories and finding out more about them,” he says, naming Mother Teresa’s piece ‘Do It Anyway’ being one of his favourite ones. “This was a piece which was not written by the Mother but was attributed to her,” he shares. True he did not derive much literary satisfaction from the whole exercise as there was hardly any editing or re-writing to be done. But the high point came from the pat he got on his back from none other than Rotary International President Bill Boyd who released the book. Time to change the subject. So we ask him about his interest in
Vaastu. “From where I come from (he comes from Kerala, but in his own wordes he is now more Punjabi than a Punjabi), Vaastu was always a way of life and that was way before it became a rage in the North.” Taking it from his hometown Cochin (he learnt it from the carpenters), he did a little research and now gives tips when he is asked, but that only for friends. “It’s not always practical to apply all elements described in Vaastu while building a house in a small area, but a few aspects like the direction of air and sunlight can always be looked into,’ he says. A man of many
facetes! So if you need a little advice either on friendship and service or
Vaastu, now you know where to look. |
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The use of art has been extensively researched and applied world wide for its power to positively affect cortical arousal, cognition, psychosocial states, emotions, social skills, communication, physical and language rehabilitation, besides stress and anxiety relief and strengthening of immune system. The therapeutic powers of work are all too well known. Music is prescribed for the depressed. Painting and clay modelling are considered good for the hyperactive. Dance often drives away inertia and drama can well turn into psychodrama with the tormented releasing bottled up emotions. This, of course, is not to say that all art is of the sick, by the sick, for the sick as the non-artistic would like to have it. But art can come to the aid of sickness and be used as effective therapy. Revealing lines
Psychologist Kishwar Ahmed Shirali has been getting people who come for counselling to make drawings, which help her in diagnosis. Kishwar says: “The lines drawn by a person can be very revealing because these are done spontaneously without too much of premeditation. More often than not I work with women and I make them draw a woman.” In the process, the person reveals various kinds of emotions, including fears and desires. Kishwar has worked thus with native Indian women in the US, women in the terror-ruled Kashmir, sex-workers in Kathmandu and has always learnt a lot from the images. Formal training
The World Centre for Creative Learning
(WCCL) Foundation in Pune is devoted to the cause WCCL creates ARTS-BASED THERAPY
(ABT) projects in various institutions with special needs groups, and trains individuals to practise Arts-Based Therapy. In last years, WCCL has created and implemented eight projects in de-addiction centres, with adults with intellectual disabilities, autism, cancer patients and so on. A sustained long-term and affordable training to make ABT projects in institutions was not available in India. It is extremely expensive to travel and learn it in the West. With this in mind, the ABT certification Course was started – the first batch (2005-2006) was a great beginning. Now the Course for 2006-2007 is announced. Some features of ABT Certification Course 2007: Modular workshop-based and practical (projects and assignments) learning spread over nine months:
For professionals and institutions in care-giving, support, medical and mental health settings For non-artists to use an eclectic vocabulary of art forms to reach out therapeutically to clients and groups Short and long term supervision support, affordable and subsidised fees For prospectus and detailed information about the Course starting January 2007, contact: World Centre for Creative Learning Foundation, A/4, Hill View residency, New
Baner, Pune 411045. Maharashtra. India. Call: (020) 25899533 / 27290866 Email:
aanandc@vsnl.net Cross-border images
Akram Varraich, a painter and poet based in Lahore, keeps contact with his friends in this side of Punjab by constantly sending landscapes from the other side. And here one realises the power of art. So soothing are they to the eye and the soul. In this case tasvir se jee bahal jaata hai!
— Nirupama Dutt |
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Bonded in Art The title is ‘Pixel Perfection’ and as the couple takes its seats, ready to talk about their first-ever exhibition together, they paint the picture of a ‘perfect couple’. Guneeta Chadha is not an unfamiliar name in the art circle. As a member of “We”, city-based women’s art body, we have seen her paintings before. Hubby Rajesh Chadha, too, has made his name with a couple of shows on graphic paintings. But that was a separate story. With the ‘Pixel Perfect’, which will be inaugurated on December 11 at Government Museum and Art Gallery, their true amalgamation as artists and couple begins. “This is the beginning of us and we will carry it on further,” says Rajesh giving a glimpse of what is about to come. This exhibition will showcase 20 of Rajesh’s paintings and 20 of Guneeta’s acrylics on paper. And looking at their works, which are ready to be shipped from their Sector 37 studio to the gallery, one can safely say that both have evolved in their respective area. Rajesh’s frames are getting bigger and bolder and Guneeta’s are moving from figurative to abstract. “For the first time, I am experimenting with acrylic and I find it challenging. Even the shift from figurative works to abstract is exciting,” says
Guneeta. Though even for this series she remains true to her theme—exploring of the man-woman relationship. As for Rajesh, “My initial inhibitions have gone and I have gone bolder both in terms of my frames and colours.” Of course his passion for abstract theme remains the same, but this time minus his trademark footprints and birds. As they scurry around to give final touches to their paintings, we want to know if the element of competitiveness creeps into their off-canvas relationship sometimes? “We draw inspiration from each other and at the same time are the worst critics so far as each other’s work is concerned. But never ever the jealousy factor has come in for the nature of our work as well as the medium is completely different and, yes, we never step into each other’s territory.” Wise guys. While
Guneeta, a lecturer in fine arts at Government College, Sector 46, with a degree from Government College of Art is the certified artist here, Rajesh had stumbled into it quite by chance. “I had met Arpana Caur and showed her one of my graphic prints. She gave me seven out of 10 marks and that’s what ignited my interest,” he says. He was discouraged initially, for graphics at that time was not considered as pure art. “But look now, every great artist is turning to the computer.” Rajesh, a management guru and author of books Write a Letter to God and How to be a high profile performers’ manager, is now addicted to art. Says he, “Colours give you more freedom than words.” The next thing on his mind, rather on both of their minds, is another experiment, the amalgamation of Guneeta’s figures with Rajesh’s graphic forms on the same canvas. “You will get to see it sometime next year,” they add. Both looking dreamy and excited. And looking at them, we know art can be a great bonding factor in a relationship. |
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Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar play mum and dad in the play with aplomb in New York, reports Rabia Tewari Jannat ek aur hai
jo mard ke pahlu mein nahin Uski aazad ravish par bhi machalna hai
tujhe Uth meri jaan mere saath hi chalna hai tujhe Shabana
Azmi and Javed Akhtar enthralled the audience at Alice Tully Hall on
December 3 with their phenomenal performance as they brought to life
some of the most memorable moments from the lives of renowned Urdu poet
and film lyricist Kaifi Azmi and his wife, noted theatre and film
actress, Shaukat Kaifi. Kaifi Aur Main, a celebration of the life
and works of Kaifi Azmi, left the audience mesmerised, spellbound and
some even in tears. The sensitive narrative written by Javed Akhtar is
based on Shaukat Kaifi’s book, Yaad Ki Rehguzar, as well as on
Kaifi Azmi’s writings and interviews. It is a theatrical collage that
provides interesting glimpses into the life of the celebrity couple—Kaifi
Azmi’s early years growing up in his village Mijwan, Shaukat and Kaifi’s
romance which culminated in a marriage that lasted 55 years, their life
in Bombay in the 1950s, Kaifi Azmi’s social and cultural activism, his
path-breaking work as a lyricist in Hindi cinema, his battle against
life-threatening illness and his persistent fight to make his village an
example of progress. The theatrical collage is produced in the format
of Tumhari Amrita. Shabana Azmi, playing her mother, read
excerpts from Yaad Ki Rehguzar, while Javed Akhtar read thoughts
of Kaifi Azmi collected from his rare interviews. The performance took
the form of a mushaira as Jaswinder Singh’s melodious voice
interspersed these readings with excellent musical renditions of some of
Kaifi Azmi’s best-known ghazals and film songs. Shabana Azmi was
impressive as ever, her performance clearly conveying how wonderfully
moving it was for her to be playing her mother. Javed Akhtar, making his
debut as an actor, was in his element. Director Ramesh Talwar, a veteran
of IPTA, masterfully shaped this theatrical presentation. Yaad Ki
Rehguzar has received remarkable reviews from critics and has been
incorporated in nine US universities as recommended reading for South
Asian Studies. The most endearing part of the performance is Kaifi and
Shaukat’s romance. In today’s time when we seem to be romantically
challenged, the selfless and innocent love of Kaifi and Shaukat comes
across as a soothing breeze reminding us of the true, ethical roots of
romance. It was heart-warming to hear that as early as 1947, Shaukat’s
father, a conservative man by nature, respected her feelings for Kaifi
even though she was already engaged to someone else. Regardless of her
family’s strong opposition, he took her to Bombay, where Kaifi lived
at the Commune, and gave her the option to decide herself if she could
live with him. For poetry-loving Indians here, this evening was an
enriching experience. For many it was mixed with nostalgia. Javed Akhtar’s
marvellous rendition of Kaifi Azmi’s revolutionary poems Aurat,
Makaan and Daaera brought in hearty applause. The standing
ovation at the end was filled with emotion as Javed Akhtar paid tribute
in his own words for Kaifi—Mohabbaton ka geet tha, baghawaton ka
raag tha; Kabhi woh sirf phool tha, kabhi woh sirf aag tha.
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Cool Chrysanthemums Gunita Gill, who revels in cultivating the blooms in her beautiful home in Mansa Devi Complex, got together her female friends for an
annual round of a cuppa midst the flowers. This is the time when Gunita, a doctor by profession who has shed the anesthetist’s mask to pursue her hobbies, gets together her batchmates along with many other friends gathered down the years. Most of these ladies have behind them long and fruitful professional years as doctors, dentists, administrators and professors. Therefore, they have well earned their cuppa of tea midst the enchanting flowers. Of course, at Gunita’s the cuppa is high tea with cakes from Monica, pakodas of every possible kind and much more. This time the lady with green fingers was worried because the late rains had played havoc with “I was really in tears seeing the condition of the flowers,” lamented Gunita. She need not have worried for her blooms were the guests’ The dress code for the evening was silk and plenty of it in the most interesting Bhagalpur and Karnataka weaves, courtesy the silk exhibitions that have become most popular in the city for this region boasts of no silk of its own. One of the guests got carried away by the mood and came wearing chrysanthemums in her hair. Not pinched from Gunita’s garden, we hope! Flower facts
Chrysanthemums were cultivated in China as a flowering herb as far back as the 15th century BC. An ancient Chinese city was named Chu-Hsien, meaning “chrysanthemum city”. The flower was introduced into Japan probably in the 8th century CE, and the Emperor adopted the The Chrysanthemum Throne ( kikukamonsh?, or kikkamonsh?) is the common name given to the Imperial throne of Japan. The chrysanthemum (kiku in Japanese) is the monsh?, or crest, of the Emperor of Japan; therefore kikukamonsh? literally means the Chrysanthemum Crest. Chrysanthemums were recognised as the official flower of the city of Chicago in 1966. |
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Trendy family drama
After Baghban B.R. Films return with another eagerly awaited film Baabul. The film has a tagline A test of love…. It is a perfect family drama in which director Ravi Chopra brings into play the culture deep-rooted ethics of an Indian family with loads of superstars like Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini and Rani Mukherjee. Baabul also stars Salman Khan and John Abraham. It will be released today at Piccadily, Chandigarh, Fun Republic, Manimajra, and KC, Panchkula. Director Ravi Chopra promises a near-flawless script and direction in the much-anticipated multi-starrer. A trendy family drama with super hit music by Aadesh Shrivastava, it has the potential to grow big. Baabul has excellent music arrangements and fine lyrics penned by Sameer. B.R. Films, which is celebrating its 50th year in Bollywood, once again propagates family values it believes in. So Baabul is keenly awaited. — D.P.
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Prepare for World Cup
Cricket in India is more of a passion now than a sport. Millions of Indians watch the game with great enthusiasm. As usual, they sat glued to their TV sets when during the recent Mini World Cup. If the players don’t deliver, it hurts the sentiments of millions of their countrymen. In my opinion, the consistently poor performance of Indian cricket players can be attributed to their extensive involvement in the advertising world rather than concentrating on the game. Featuring in advertisements, no doubt, makes players rich, but they must not do it at the cost of the game that makes them celebrities in the first place. One of the remedies can be that the BCCI puts a ban on players endorsing products. If the players’ performance continues to be indifferent, cricket buffs may retaliate and boycott the products they endorse. Another reason for non-performance of players, I feel, is biased selection. Selectors choose undeserving players sometimes under political pressure. We also lag behind in hunting for new talent at the grassroot level and giving good exposure to the budding players so that they learn how not to succumb under pressure. India with a flourishing economy can afford to have world-class pitches and grounds and equipment. In view of the forthcoming World Cup, it’s high time that the BCCI got down to the business of improving the performance of the Indian team by evolving concrete strategies. — Gautam Sharma
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Shining brides and grooms
The onset of the wedding season brings along excitement, anxiety and loads of concerns especially for the bride and the groom. A lot of energy would go into bringing together the trousseau, jewellery and the decorations but the skin of the two most important faces of the day would come last. The city has found a specialised answer to the skin concerns of the bride and the groom with special treatments from Kaya skin clinic. Dr Kovina Puri has all the answers ready to ease those worry lines not only on the faces of the brides and the grooms but also on the faces of the entire family, getting them ready for the D-day. “The focus of our specialised treatments is on a healthy and glowing skin”, she says. “Most of the brides and grooms break down just before the most important day of their lives because of stress, anxiety and the shopping trips”, she says. “Men come lowest on the ladder because they usually do not take routine care of the skin as compared to women but on their wedding, realise its importance.” Chandigarh men are getting treatment for prim and proper beards, uneven skin tones and tanning mostly. For the ratio they are not far behind women and are coming in ratio of 35 per cent to 65 per cent to get their faces brightened up the specialised way, she says. With the time required for specialised derma-care being long how could it the fit into the tight wedding run-up schedules? Dr Kovina says the laser treatments require much greater time and the scheduling is done much in advance. Treatments like microderm abrasions, glow facials back shines, coupled with routine skin care, diet changes make perfect faces for the brides and grooms to be, says the doc. Most importantly, the doc also suggests crucial last-minute remedies on the D-day.
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A clarification
“Closer to heaven”, published in these columns on November 3, was accompanied by a photograph of children surrounding a glider. The children took lessons in gliding and not paragliding as was mentioned inadvertently. The error is regretted. |
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Health tip of the day
With age feet not only increase in length but the forefoot tends to widen. Therefore, old shoes should be changed with new ones that does not cramp or squeeze the foot. — Dr Ravinder Chadha |
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TAROT TALK
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He was never a superstar, yet Dharmendra or Dharam Singh Deol, proved to
be one of the most constant actors, a true son of the soil, who stood
his ground well and proper while other heroes came and went. He had the
resilience of Tennyson’s little brook and the quality to go on
forever. He exuded such youth and flamboyance that it comes as a
surprise that Garam Dharam is all of 72 today. Although it should
not be a surprise because even his star sons Sunny and Bobby are
middle-aged and even daughter Esha Deol is getting on. Visualise
Dharmendra and it is youth and sensuality that greets the eye.
Martial arts star Jackie Chan who once starred in an X-rated adult movie insists that he doesn’t regret his porn past. The Rush Hour star starred in the film ‘All in the Family’ years ago when he was a struggling actor.
“I had to do anything I could do to make a living but I don’t think it’s a big deal even Marlon Brando used to be exposed in his movies,” he was quoted by Contactmusic, as saying. “The porn movies at that time were more conservative that the current films,” he added.
Nevertheless, the conversation flows, from the stories he had collected and edited for the volume to his amateurish dabbling with
Vaastu. “The idea for the book came from Past Rotary International President Raja Saboo to do something different and after some brain storming session, we zeroed down on putting down an anthology of inspirational stories and sayings that jells with the basic tenets of Rotary which are nothing but friendship, ethics, service and understanding,” says Peter.
ARIES: “ The Chariot” brings light into darkness. Look at the overall cost of things and try to balance your budget. A Scorpio person influences your decision and moves in a progressive direction. A change in your family situation has made you realize where your true values lie. Your soul mate will be appreciative of your efforts. Lucky colour: peacock blue. TIP OF THE WEEK: Plan your life to avoid the inbuilt delays.
LIBRA: “The knight of wands” brings emotional impulses, moods, and childlike behavior or desires dominate you. Romantic invitations will be complicated. Key issues may involve divisions of time, social promises or past social histories. Don’t be drawn into an emotional competition this week. Lucky colour: Jade. TIP OF THE WEEK: Don’t get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time.
TAURUS: “The Moon” takes you through a difficult Karmic situation. Be prepared for all out combat with people. Even though this is pretty much the opposite of your normal style. In fact, “opposite” is pretty much the name of the game for you. Your success will come through deliberate effort and unexpected opportunities. Lucky colour: Silver grey. TIP OF THE WEEK: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power.
SCORPIO:
The Card “The Moon” brings a quickening, many changes and insights. Difficulties still exist in partnerships or relationships that you need to deal with. You have the capability of making positive changes, but the window of opportunity is not that wide, so act accordingly. You’ll breath a sigh of relief soon. Lucky colour: Scarlet. TIP OF THE WEEK: Do not let trival problems haunt you.
GEMINI: “ Nine of cups” interprets it as having ‘focused energy’ and concentration on a goal. You have come to a stage in your life where ‘karmic speed breakers’ and circumstances will compel you to put aside grey thoughts and aim for the sunbeam instead. Pets, children, home, gardens can take much of your time. Learn a lesson from past mistakes and get on with your life. Lucky Colour: Midnight blue. TIP OF THE WEEK : Emphasis on spiritual needs.
SAGITTARIUS: Family , funds , food & finace rule the week ahead. Your deepest desires, hopes and aspirations are actually available. Those involved in courtship may plan a romantic outgoing. Business person will make handsome profits. Working girls wishing to change job may receive good offers. A work related journey will prove fruitful. Responsibilities at home will increase on Thursday. Lucky Colour: Coffee. TIP OF THE WEEK: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action.
CANCER: “The High Pristess” reveal family pressure and responsibilities. You are sufficiently distracted to run into trouble if you don’t pay attention to what you are doing. It is important to look after hair, nails, skin, etc. Do not get tangled with an idle and superficially attractive person. Timely support from an Taurean friend surprises you. Fitness routines and healthy diets are prescribed for your well being. Lucky colour: Ebony TIP OF THE WEEK: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion.
CAPRICORN: “The Magus” blesses you sensitivity and creativity in whatever you do. You are ready to shatter old patterns and limitations that may have blocked you in the past. Monday is best day to express your plans, feelings and ideas. Do not repent as you cannot turn the clock back. A Scorpio person can be relied upon. Short journey and expeditions are likely for some. Lucky Colour: Yellow. TIP OF THE WEEK: Keep your eyes on the future as you do so. 
LEO: “ The Knight of Discs” supports you with healing and earthy energy. The emphasis this week is upon short trips, your home, and connecting with your roots. Perseverance is key to success. Use your intuitive powers. Join forces with powers greater than yourself. Being pushy or belligerent could spiral into a major power struggle. Lucky Colour: pink. TIP OF THE WEEK: Take limited risks while speculating.
AQUARIUS: The third eye of Lord Shiva blesses you with inner power. A get-together after work allows you to relax on Saturday. You may be traveling to visit friends or family that live a long distance away from you. There is a desire to control a negative situation with kids this Sunday. You tend to “dream the impossible dream” in this week. Lucky colour: Deep crimson. TIP OF THE WEEK: Handle your projects secretly and carefully.
VIRGO: “The Queen of Wands” allows you to achieve professional success. Do not ignore worthwhile friends, either. You are lucky concerning family matters. Projecting your best qualities and listening to well meaning colleagues and loved one will make the task easier. Focus on yoga & meditation which will relieve you from mental stress. Lucky Colour: Red. TIP OF THE WEEK: Be on guard against, duplicity, fraud or trickery.
PISCES: Look for a fresh way of doing your routine job. Be realistic and practical about your approach to financial matters. In a relationship you need to express yourself more openly, so that others around you know your true inner self. Weekend may come as a relief you can really get in syne with the fun others having. Lucky colour: old rose. TIP OF THE WEEK: Try not to get carried away by your initial success.