The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

Hats off!
Stylish sun shields: Caps and bandannas are the must-have accessories this summer
Jasmine Singh

It’s that time of the year when you cannot go out in the sun without dabbing yourself with a strong sunscreen, throwing on a pair of thick shades and certainly not without a baseball cap or a bandanna. This summer, throw on a cap and a pair of loop earrings, a casual tee and jeans and beat the heat in style.

“Baseball caps are not just for boys. In fact they look better on girls because they can carry it with style,” offers city-based designer Tarika Mehta. She recommends the caps with rounded front flaps for girls. You can get these in all sizes, shapes and designs. A hat too, whether a baseball one or a wide brimmed sun hat, looks fabulous when worn with a casual outfit.

“Do not wear it with formals, lest you want heads to turn,” tells Tarika. Girls can team up these caps with short denim skirts and even capris. Coloured printed caps and washed ones in denims are quiet in demand. In addition to these, you can also go in for designer caps with work done on them or the local ones. These are priced somewhere between Rs 150 and 600.

Neha, a student from GCG-11, would rather go in for branded caps. “They are simple yet sporty. The only drawback is that you have only selected colours to choose from,” she says. But then, they look quiet chic. This girl has loads of them, one to go with each tee. “They also protect my hair from getting damaged in the sun,” she adds. Lacoste and Addidas have a good collection of baseball caps.

Must-have summer accessories, caps and hats, provide 100 per cent protection from the sun. “The headgear works as a shield against harmful ultraviolet rays, which can damage the hair leaving them dry and discoloured,” tells Zahid Khan
from Zahid’s Signature Salon. Girls with both short as well as long hair should wear caps. “Girls with long hair can tie up the hair in a neat pony. It looks really cool,” tells Zahid.

If baseball cap is too manly an accessory for you, then try on the bandannas in different patterns. Available in summery cool colours like blue, red, yellow, green, and pink these can be tied up in many different ways. Says INIFD-8 director corporate Ritu Kochhar, “For a smart trendy look, you can tie a bandanna in different styles, depending on what you can carry off well. It can be tied up backwards, a very common style, or you can let some portion of it fall on the shoulders. Else try the hair band style, like a scarf.“ What’s important to remember is that bandannas should be worn only with casuals.

This very MTV Roadies style accessory is available in graphics, checks and polka dots. Adds Ritu, “Girls go in for crochet bandannas or the ones, which have some work done on it. It’s a unisex accessory and looks equally sporty on both boys
and girls.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Make the cut
Forget about admission lists that cut you to pieces. This one will jazz up your look
Manpriya Khurana

Remember boys, the times when you had to go to school with neatly cut hair, oiled and combed with side parting. The simple haircut, which sadly has no takers. The word is experimentation. You can do some whacky things to your hair to look stylish and in. Better still; go for a haircut that matches your attitude and style.

Sounds too good to be true. Not really. Aamir Khan has it; Robin Uthhapa has had it for quite sometime now. And now lots of boys in the city are going ga ga over it. Yes, it’s the new fundoo hairstyle that looks like a football; short-cropped hair with lines in between called the American Grass.

And what’s this hairstyle all about? “It’s basically very short spiked hair, explains Arshad Khan of Oleega, Sector 11. There are a lot of trimmers, in this we use trimmer no 2.”

Also known as American Grass or crew cut, this stylised cut has captured the imagination of city youngsters and onlookers. No wonder, many are getting it done. Nikhil Joshi, a management student from Mohali, says, “It’s new, different and yet not too funky and over the top.”

As per Shahid, who recently got it done from a saloon in Sector-11 says, “It’s a nice change. I had it done very casually because I felt like getting it done”. Even Indian cricketer Uthappa feels it’s a cut that he just wanted to try.

With young icons sporting this style, college and University boys too are jumping onto the bandwagon. This isn’t it; school kids too are in the fray. Eastkar Ali, popularly known as Sunny of Headmaster’s-8 puts in, “ we have a lot of school kids coming to us for this haircut because its vacation time. He further adds, during holidays kids want to have their own way, which is why parents don’t object to it most of the times.”

But what is it that makes this style so sought after? Explains Sunny, “One, it’s different. Boys who go in for this cut are looking for a rough rugged look. Most of them think it goes well with a trimmed beard. Second, it’s a low maintenance cut that does not require combing. Just run your fingers through it and you are ready.”

He further adds, boys out of their teens are also going in for this. Some are young businessmen as well. But these are not the only advantages. The fact remains that American Grass looks different, cool and is trendy too. Now what more can you ask for? Go ahead and change the way you look and also the way people look at you.

lifestyletribune@gmail.com

Luxury Redefined
Spain’s finest porcelain comes calling to city
Jasmine Singh

A thing of beauty is joy forever. And when it’s a tastefully done Lladro figurine from Spain, you bet it is! A handcrafted dancing Ganesha, a bansuri-playing Ganesha or for that matter, an exclusive Radha-Krishna figurine, reflecting the intricate beauty of Indian gods and goddesses, Lladro promises to offer an unforgettable shopping experience. And now you won’t have to fly to Spain, Mumbai or Chennai to get one of these masterpieces, which are available at Ethos-8.

“Lladro is synonymous with class and luxury and is a very popular gift,” offers Anisha Gaur, Manager-Retail Operations, Lladro. Known for high quality porcelain figurines, Lladro pieces are the result of a meticulous artistic process that preserves traditional craft skills. Each step is guided by master craftspeople. In fact, for the Radha-Krishna figurine, the craftsmen came down to Vrindavan to study the scriptures and culture! Adds Anisha, “This holds true for the rest of the figurines that depict various moods and emotions.”

A fantasy, a dream, a desire, an emotion — just about anything and Lladro will translate it for you into a beautiful figurine. Puts in Anisha, “Not only traditional but classic figurines are also doing pretty well. As of now, Europe is the strongest market, but Asia is catching up as well.”

What makes Lladro stand out is the minute detailing which goes in making these pieces? These pieces are done in three different looks, glazed, matt and gres (earthy), with special emphasis on detailing. So, be it the flowers of goddess Lakshmi’s necklace or Radha’s toe-rings, you’ll find all details intact. The end result is, of course, pieces of great artistic perfection that tell a story in their own language.

Agrees Rakesh Mohunta, Head Operations, Ethos, “Lladro pieces are retailed through exclusive boutiques in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and now at Ethos.” For Rakesh, Lladro is a piece of luxury and class, something that speaks volumes about an individual’s style and taste. “People in the tricity have huge and beautiful houses they like to do up tastefully. A Lladro figurine adds class to the decoration. In addition to this, it is also the best possible gift that you can give to someone,” he says. Of course, it comes with a price tag, but when it’s Lladro, price does not matter.

Dance with me!
Jasmine Singh

Dancing is a lot more than getting the right moves. It’s about enjoying, letting yourself loose and having a great time. And if you manage to get the steps right, well it’s a bonus. Anubhav Kumar, synonymous with salsa in Chandigarh, assures both at his weeklong workshop for children and adults at Planet Fitness.

The focus is on rhythmic choreography. “If you are able to catch the rhythm of a song, then you can dance to any number,” says Anubhav who is giving classes in salsa hip hop and jazz. “I teach a mixed kind of dancing, which rejuvenates your system. In fact, a one-hour dancing class burns 500 calories and improves body structure. Bollywood, too, is following a mixed kind of dancing style, with a little bit of salsa, filmi, rock and hip-hop.”

As compared to rest of the dance forms, Anubhav finds Hip-hop as an aggressive style of dancing. ?You need a lot of energy to do hip-hop. It’s a vigorous form that even helps you to vent your aggression, he smiles.

For those of you born with two left feet or those who fall in the category of Hrithik Roshan, this workshop is just for you.

For children, the seven-days workshop includes lessons in hip-hop and jazz ballet, which culminates in a show where kids give a performance. Price, Rs 1,500 per child. As for adults, you can enroll in a workshop designed especially for the beginners who want to learn to move and shake, followed by a dance event at Score. Price Rs 1,500 per person.

Double century

In a lively and emotional ceremony held at Fortis-Mohali, a large number of children who had been operated upon for life-saving heart surgeries by Dr T.S. Mahant (executive director, cardiac surgery) gathered to celebrate the completion of 200 surgeries by the world-renowned surgeon.

Children from Jalandhar, Rupnagar, Muktsar, Ambala, Fatehgarh and around were accompanied by their parents. Surjit Kaur, mother of one-year-old Mannat from Rupnagar, said, “My little daughter’s right side was not developing and we had given up hope. Then Dr Mahant took up her case. It was a difficult surgery, but he was very relaxed, positive and encouraging. My daughter is okay now and we are honoured to be a part of this celebration.” Each parent had a similar story to tell.

All praise for his team, Dr Mahant said, “Every day I witness nurses, physicians, pediatricians and others giving time and effort above and beyond the call of duty.” He recalled a time when an underprivileged baby suddenly needed blood transfusions. “At least five employees of Fortis volunteered. It’s a very special place, this hospital,” he ended. — TNS

Want legs like Lindsay?

Having legs like Lindsay Lohan’s is not something all girls can azchieve, however, what they can easily get is her leggings and that too at a store nearby. Come August and Lohan’s leggings will hit Fred Segal stores under the actress’ 6126 fashion line, named after her heroine Marilyn Monroe’s birthday.

The 21-year-old star created her own fashion line with design partner Kristi Kaylor. Her collection includes footless tights, cashmere leg warmers and ankle gloves, which come in a range of patterns and materials.

Starting at 40 pounds, the line will go on sale at Fred Segal stores in Los Angeles on August 30. — ANI

Little Interview
Ishaan’s daddy
Vipin Sharma is back to acting and India after
more than a decade
Purva Grover

His eight-year-old son hates school and perpetually fails his exams. He can’t even throw a ball in a straight line. And, his top-shot executive father, who expects the best from his son, scolds him for that. Meet Ishaan Nandakishore Awasthi’s nasty father in Taare Zameen Par (TZP).

Well, that’s how Vipin Sharma is better known today. “He is not a completely detestable character, he does realise his mistake in the end,” Vipin corrects us. That explains why children did end up loving Ishaan’s daddy. We speak to this NSD passout and find out more on life before and after TZP.

Where were you before TZP?

I was in Toronto since ’91 and returned back only a year and a half back. I was involved with the editing side of mainstream Canadian TV and did a bit of experimental cinema.

So what made you come back after so many years?

I had started to miss acting and when I saw Maqbool, I felt Indian cinema was changing and this was the best time to return. Plus, my friends in the industry encouraged me.

How did TZP happen?

Amol (writer and creative director of TZP) is an old friend. I sat down with him and Aamir when they auditioned for the character of Ishaan. The father’s character got me interested and when Amol told me that there is redemption in the end for him, I instantly auditioned for the role.

What made TZP the hit it is?

Children are most misunderstood. And then, who hasn’t been through a phase when they feel that their mom or dad hates them or doesn’t understand them. It’s something each one, old or young could relate to.

Tell us about your role in the forthcoming Colours of Passion.

It’s quite a small role. I play the caretaker of the great Indian painter Raja Ravi Verma. He is not very educated, doesn’t know much about art and is a Mallu! And I’m looking quite Mallu in that get-up. (smiles…)

What’s in store for the future?

Nothing has been finalised yet. But, you’ll see me work with Shimit Amin, Rajat Kapoor, Anurag Kashyap and Anurag Basu. Also in the pipeline is a crossover flick to be shot in South Africa.

Sidelanes
To police or not?
Joyshri Lobo

The police in India is always encased in a murky aura and a bad odour. Even if they do anything right, we the people snigger, pass snide comments and generally shower contempt and suspicion. The media makes it worse.

A cop has thrashed Pappu as he is trying to take away a car that is not his. Mummyji calls the Press and Pappu is photographed with a black eye, blue bruises and a wailing mother by his innocent side. The cops become the rogues while
darling beta goes scot-free as there is likely to be a riot if he is incarcerated. Perhaps, it is time the Arm of the Law had a make over instead of being pictured as the Keystone Cops.

Of course, the worst scenario is when darling beta or beti declares, “Do you know who I am?” In the North, where bhai-bandhi reads clout, it becomes imperative to find out who they are. They are usually the spoilt brats of politicians, bureaucrats or worse still, other cops, which gives them the licence to kill, maim, bully, push, or just bluster.

With such antecedents can you blame our cops for avoiding policing? I would consider the following to improve their tarnished image. We want them to be friends of all senior citizens, the protectors (not mashers) of the poor and model, incorruptible humans. The improvements suggested are:

To regenerate public confidence, police stations are requested to lodge FIRs. Most discourage this, be it murder, theft or any other complaint against the infringement of our constitutional rights. The aim is to show reduced crime rate sheets at the end of the year. Recently, a US citizen living in Sector 8 lost his laptop with charger and mouse; a Discman; scanner cum printer and pen drive just before he left for home. As no locks seemed broken, the police are yet to file an FIR.

They did not check anything or take any fingerprints. When, a few days later, a kitchen window was found open, they said the tenants ought to have noticed it earlier. (Sounds like the Aarushi case where policemen and public stomped through the house destroying evidence.)

In Panchkula, a woman committed suicide as the cops who raped her were not punished. In 1984, some very polite constables plied my father and me with chai as the midnight hour crept past. Then it was too late to lodge an FIR. In January 2007, we lost all our garden chairs. The head honcho at the station told us it was a pleasure to talk to “decent people,” scribbled on a sheet minus a carbon or a complaint number and escorted us personally off the premises. Maybe, all complainants need to commit hara-kiri to be heard.

Secondly, a lot of the cops seem unfit. They cannot run behind criminals because rosogulla-like stomachs come in the way. Maybe some of the gyms around town would be kind enough to give free training sessions to these wonderful people?

Lastly, cops, like their prototypes in Britain, need to exude kindliness and sympathy. Ossie and I went to ask about renewing our driving licences. As we had just arrived from Goa, we walked into the wrong department. The man incharge was large, icy, impolite, scary. I thought senior citizens welfare and safety was foremost in police personnel’s hearts. With the above-mentioned minimal improvements, our erstwhile icons may yet be restored to their pristine, pure stature and persona.

(This column appears weekly)

Rising Star
On the stage
S. D. Sharma

Theatre is his passion and he firmly believes that this is one medium of art that is capable of radiating energy. “A meaningful form of entertainment it works as a platform for debate on socially relevant issues,” says Hitender Kumar, director of Holy Theatre ensemble.

An actor, Hitender holds degrees in theatre and mass communication. He says, “I find satisfaction in staging plays on issues like environment, women empowerment, female foeticide, and more.” Hitender won laurels in debates and histrionics for his school. SD College. He maintained his tradition of excellence by winning at SD College too. Soon, winning medals in PU youth festivals became a habit with him.

He won the hearts of city audience with commendable theatre performances. However, his aesthetic potential blossomed under the guidance of theatre icon, Neelam Man Singh.

“ It was my roles in Kitchen Katha, Siboo in Super Market, and Nag Mandala that transformed my approach towards character portrayal,” he says. He will be next seen in Neelam’s The Suit. “Despite plenty of talent, the city is yet to achieve the desired level of professional competence,” he rues.

lifestyletribune@gmail.com

(This column appears fortnightly)

Symbolic Art

Designing logos is not new to him, he has previously designed logos for Chandigarh’s education department, Municipal Corporation, on the occasion of 25 years of Bhakra Dam and more.

So, when D.S. Kapoor, a senior faculty of Government College of Art-10, came across an advertisement in the paper last September for a national contest for designing a logo for B.P.S. Mahila Vishwavidyalya, Sonepat, he got thinking. Designing for an all women university gave him a chance to spread an important message and yes an award too!

On Wednesday, he was awarded an appreciation letter and prize money for his creation. Well so this city-based artist’s logo is now the university’s official logo and will find its place in all their publications, prospectus and more. We ask him to share the concept behind it.

“The line drawing of the woman against the rays stands for the woman grabbing knowledge from the university and spreading it to one and all,” he explains. And as for the colour red, it stands for inspiration. The yellow backdrop reminds one of the sun, source of light and the university, the source of education. Well, that’s what we call knowledge art! — TNS

Youth Speak
Reaching out
Himani Bahuguna

Today’s modern youth is choosing mass communication as a preferred option to get name and fame. Earlier, students used to take up either medical or non-medical stream as one of their preferred career options but now the trend has changed. Youngsters are desperately running towards journalism.

They find it more interesting to write and report about the three C’s of journalism - Crime, Cricket and Cinema. Famous media personalities like Barkha Dutt, Prabhu Chawla and Rajat Sharma are inspiring youngsters even more towards this field. Journalism generally demands a youth to be active with knowledge of the art of writing a crisp, interesting and witty script.

The youth think that field of journalism can give them fame as well as a good salary package. Every year hard competition to get admission in Jamia Milia Islamia is a shining example. Success of recently-held media fest in Panjab University is another example. Though print media is given first preference by the youth, some find electronic media more interesting.

Sitting in a high-class news studio or working in a well-known newspaper is a lucrative option for them. The young always want to give their own views about social, economic, political and cultural aspects, so they find media as the best way to express themselves. Also the creative mind of youth in media is changing the scenario of modern politics. It can be rightly said that media has become the crown and glory of modern youth.

New releases
Soul-searching

Starring: Sikander Kher, Uvika Chaudhary, Arjan Bajwa, Gul Panag, Alekh Sangal
Director: Suhail Tatari

Five medical students from a capitation fee college in India represent the youth hooked onto Xboxs and Formula 1 racing. That is the only India they have inherited and that is the only India they know. Till one day, a game they play goes too far.

As an outcome they land up in one of the most deprived villages in Maharashtra. Their rural posting turns into a soul-searching journey where they are forced to confront their own apathy, their own fears and their strange complicity in the circumstances of the village.

Before they can run from there, they get sucked into the whirlpool of counter currents. Each of the five undergo different kinds of catharsis and in the end have to make a choice. Do they leave the mess just as they had found it and get away from there or do they choose to get involved?

Showing at: Fun Republic, Batra

Queue of singles
Mere Baap Pehle Aap

Starring: Akshaye Khanna, Paresh Rawal, Om Puri, Genelia D’Souza, Rajpal Yadav
Director: Priyadarshan

Widower Janaradhan Wishvanbhar Rane (Paresh) has spent his life bringing up his two kids Chirag (Manoj) and Gaurav (Akshaye). Janaradhan has done everything for his kids to bring them up in the best possible manner. Now when the duo has grown up, Gaurav takes up the responsibility of
his father.

They both manage household chores and their business. Though he is the younger son, Gaurav is on guard with the vigilance of a disciplined parent. He shouts, threatens, and fights - even locks up his father occasionally so that his prankster best friend Madhav Mathur (Om Puri), a divorcee desperate to get married, does not spoil him.

Madhav and Janaradhan, always in search of a bride for Madhav, forever land up in trouble and every time Gaurav has to bail them out and face the embarrassment.

Gaurav busy managing his business starts getting prank calls from a girl who turns out to be his old college friend Sheekha Kapoor (Genelia). Sheekha is staying with her guardian Anuradha (Shobana) who is also Janardhan’s first love.

Gaurav and Sheekha notice changes in the behavior of Janaradhan and Anuradha when they come face to face after many years. They come to know about their past relationship. Now Gaurav wants his father to get married to his lost love.

Showing at: DT Cinemas, Neelam, KC (Pkl) and Fun Republic

A lot happening
The Happening

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Zooey Deschanel, John Leguizamo, Ashlyn Sanchez
Director: M. Night Shyamalan

The film opens in New York. People start to get confused in Central Park, repeating their words, standing still and sometimes walking backwards. We hear a few screams. A cop on the road shoots himself in the head.

A driver gets out of his car, takes the gun, and also shoots himself in the head. We see a pair of high heels walk over and a hand starts to pick up the gun. Meanwhile on a building site, workers start to walk calmly off the top of the building, crunching down to earth.

A science teacher named Elliot Moore (Mark) is called out of class to a staff meeting warning about this “terrorist attack” in New York, and advising that school is cancelled. Elliot and his wife Alma (Zooey) flee Philadelphia on a train, with a friend and his daughter Jess. On the train people start to get reports by cell phone that the attacks are in lots of places.

The train ends up leaving them in a small rural town, as the conductors have lost radio contact with everyone else. At a diner they see a newscast that suggests the suicides are not caused by a terrorist attack, but by a natural phenomena.

The friend leaves Jess with Elliot and Alma to go and look for his wife in Princeton. Elliot and Alma decide, along with everybody else, to flee for the state line to be safe. Will they be safe?

Showing at: DT Cinemas, Fun Republic

Health Tip
Dr Ravinder Chadha

Chest pain is not always because of a heart problem. Most incidents of chest pain reported among individuals in the age groups of twenty to forty are due to muscular problems. Other causes could be hyperacidity, chest infection and faulty paradoxical breathing.

Symptoms: Constricting (clenched fist type) restrosternal pain, epigastric pain or pain on the inner side of arm, neck associated with palpitation and sweating. Other pains are dull, aching aggravates on movement.

Pain due to heart involvement increases with exercise, activity, heavy meals and stress whereas pain due to muscle involvement is aggravated by deep inspiration, coughing or on rotation of the trunk.

Exercises: Standing in the doorway, one foot is placed in front of the other and the forward knee is bent. Shift the body forward stretching the chest muscles.

All chest pains should be evaluated to rule out the possibility of cardiac pain and then managed accordingly.

TAROT TALK
What the cards say today...
P. KHURRANA

ARIES: The Emperor gets you in touch with you leadership
qualities. Try to avoid serious discussions with loved ones on
Saturday. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Tip of the week: Now is the
need to question the value judgment that has been shaping your
money aspects.

TAURUS: The Hanged Man opts for important changes at home. You can expect visitors and communications from overseas to be positive and helpful. You are good at working with groups and supporting institutions. Lucky colour: Crimson. Tip: It is no longer necessary to take risks.

GEMINI: The Princess of Swords brings clarity in personal and professional situations. A business cum pleasure trip is on the cards. You are mentally strong and stand to win any argument or debate. Lucky colour: Midnight blue. Tip: Don’t reveal your plan of action to anyone.

CANCER: The Queen of Pentacles says influential or strong-minded people will be drawn into your orbit. Adapting to new technology will be important to keep pace with the changing times. Lucky colour: Green. Tip: Don’t be too stubborn.

LEO: The Princes of Cups reveals the employed will be making plans for their forthcoming vacations. Be grateful for the gains coming your way instead of longing for out of reach things or people. Lucky colour: Orange. Tip: Yoga and meditation are rejuvenating.

VIRGO: The Wheel of Fortune spins in some good fortune. Those in unconventional relationships tend to interfere in most decisions their mate makes, not giving them enough freedom of expression. Lucky colour: Lime green. Tip: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you.

LIBRA: The Prince of Wands supports you through a busy and turning week with healing and earthy energy. You are focussed on many different projects in this week. Lucky colour: Green. Tip: Play your cards close to your chest.

SCORPIO: The Chariot drawn by four sphinxes brings light into darkness. Try and explain your issues to loved ones to avoid any misunderstandings. Lucky colour: White. Tip: Do not expect too much from others.

SAGITTARIUS: The Universe opens up new horizons in career and personal relationship. A Taurus person supports you emotionally and financially. Give yourself a new fitness routine to rejuvenate energy. Lucky colour: Golden Yellow. Tip: Plan your life to avoid the inbuilt delays that comes your way.

CAPRICORN: You draw The Star what you have been dreaming and wishing for has come true in part. Your physical energy will soar, your mood at home will be less impatient and you will be passionately enthusiastic about enjoying yourself. Lucky colour: Purple Tip: Watch your actions at work and polish your public relation skills.

AQUARIUS: The Queen of Cups suggests being in touch with your sense of humour. Luxury shopping may bring a hole in your pocket on Wednesday. You are graceful and amiable in family matters and social involvements. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Tip: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions.

PISCES: The Star promises name, fame and recognition. A Taurean or Scorpio will give you optimistic advice. Meditate and get in touch with inner silence. Lucky colour: Brown. Tip: You concentrate on projects with reliable outcomes.