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Laptop to Lipstick Party, office or a day out with the girlfriends; there are zillions of chic, cool and classy bags up for grabs. Who needs arm candy? Corporate culture, multi-national companies, long working hours, invasion at workplaces by the fairer sex — they are bound to trigger many a trends. And when we are talking about office trends, the first thing that comes to mind is bags. With considerable part of the day being spent at office, the options for women’s handbags are getting bigger and better. Given the need to carry the whole day’s paraphernalia, an ideal office bag would be the one that can accommodate right from lipsticks to a laptop. Something in which you can that can fit in not just the notebook for the Monday morning presentation, but your own mini beauty salon, just in case you need to rush for that important date after work. After all, a date is as important as a corporate meeting. The good news is that companies are getting sensitive towards our needs and as a result we, now, are spoilt for a choice.
Mont Blanc, the century-old international luxury brand, offers quite a variety. What you have here is a collection of huge, dump-all office bags to laptop bags or even the ones that can accommodate both. Their Starisma and Westside collection spell simplicity and elegance. Made in calf or buff leather, anything can be fitted into these. For those who love white colour, there is this collection called Eternal. As store manager Anaheeta Mehra puts in, “These bags are popular among women in their early 30s. But the laptop bags rule among the working group in their 20s.” If you want to look professional, that’s the one for you. If colour and vibrancy are what you are looking for, head to Hidesign. Bags in pink, white and blue to catch your fancy and suit your corporate needs. With a name given to every single one, each piece is unique. Kiara, the bag in tan brown, is not stiff like the usual laptop bags. Venis, made of calf leather, is just big enough to hold a notebook and can be carried in hand. Store manager Kiran says, “These are the rage amongst younger lot.” If you are the conservative kind who goes for black, brown and tan only you would not be disappointed. If unisex is what you want, then Da Milano is the place for you. These rugged, sober and very laptop-looking bags will probably never go out of fashion. Its Portfolio collection in buff leather is good for both genders and for all seasons. There is a huge variety in crocodile prints and quilted designs to choose from. If you want to retain that schoolgirl charm, then Kippling is the place for you. Here you’ll find a huge variety of laptop bags in purple, pink, brown and grey. Made of washable Oxford nylon, they are sure to put you in the chic and sporty slot. You may wear the pants at your office, but that does not mean you should lose the charm and grace of a woman. And with the companies taking care of your needs, you cannot carry that glum and unglamorous office handbag anymore. That, after all, is nothing less than
felony! lifestyletribune@gmail.com
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Clutch on to style ALL set to sizzle in your little black dress? Before you leave, do not forget to get hold of a high-on-style purse. It makes all the difference. Designed to add pizzaz to the evening dress, these bags for women have never looked so appealing. Take your pick from ethnic potlis, stone-studded totes, oval, square shapes or clutch closures with a long chain handle. Emphasis is on metallic shades and varied embellishments. “We have crystal and Swarovsky-studded ones or bags with broaches, sequins and with beaded handles,” says Divya Kapoor, owner of Samsaara. “Intricate embroidery and embellishments make them hugely appealing and elegant.” If you are not high on bling, go for delicately hand finished embroidered bags or metallic totes that can go with any dress. In addition, you could also pick from hobos in good quality cotton canvas. Cotton and satin bags in animal prints and embroidery too add to the style quotient. As for fabrics, choose from tissue, silk, leather or brocade with sequins or beadwork. Says Divya, “Purses made of authentic zari go well with all kinds of evening wear. For more style, choose from shades of white, silver, gold, red, maroon and pink. For regular partygoers bronze and silver work best,” says Divya. Also on offer is a wide collection of leather shoulder bags that go well with both traditional and western dresses. “Leather ones in metallic finish are in demand. Faux leather purses with cutwork, metal trimmings and silver chains that double as straps are the highlights of our collection,” says Vinita, store manager, Da Milano. With so many options available there, it’s adding to our fashion appetite. No wonder, these gleaming delights are already making city’s fashionistas hungry for more. Where: Wills Lifestyle, Van Heusen, Bags ‘n’ Shoes, Purple, Meena Bazaar Cost Factor: Designer collection starts at Rs 1,400 onwards at Samsaara and Da Milano. Other collections cost anything between Rs 800 to Rs 1,500.
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Something for everyone
Money Hai Toh Honey Hai Starring: Govinda, Aftab Shivdasani, Esha Deol, Celina Jaitely, Kim Sharma, Ravi Kissen, Upen Patel, Hansika Motwani Director: Ganesh Acharya
The journey of the sextet begins after a call from a cranky old man, whom they ignore initially, but later somehow decide to give it a thought. They realize that they could be the owners of a luxury resort. With loads of dreams in their eyes, they all reach the resort and realise that the old man had called not one but all six of them. Will they be able to run the empire together, or fight among themselves? Another hurdle in their way is a loyal manager who instigates them against each other, hoping to wipe them out from the scene so that he could be the new MD of this resort. Showing at: Neelam, Fun Republic, DT Cinemas, PVR, Suraj (Pkl) Mission Istanbul Starring: Vivek Oberoi, Shreya Saran, Sunil Shetty, Zayed Khan Director: Apoorva Lakhia
It's also the reason Owais Hussain (Suniel), a senior producer at the controversial Istanbul based AL JOHARA, widely criticised as the mouthpiece of terrorists, makes him an offer to head the channel's proposed Indian bureau for an outrageous salary and other perks. It's an offer he almost can't refuse because of the channel's controversial profile which ensures that it's seen by everyone globally. But there is one condition: he must join ASAP and fly to Istanbul for a three month orientation programme. Personally, Vikas is undergoing a painful divorce with wife Anjali (Shreya), an equally feisty journalist whose desire to have a baby leads to their separation. But little does Vikas know that his life is about to change forever. From then on the whole movie depicts the life and lessons of Vikas in Istanbul. When he decides to quit, Vikas is approached by a former Turkish commando, Rizwan Khan (Vivek), who hints that no senior employee has ever quit Al Johara and rattles off a list of Al Johara employees who had been killed in attacks within days of their plans to quit. Vikas is quickly reminded of Owais Husain expressing the same to him. The deeper Vikas digs into Al Johara's history and operations, the more questions crop up in his mind. And then he makes the cardinal mistake of straying onto the 13th floor. Everything is just not what it seems in the murky, dangerous and suicidal world of terrorism. From wielding a mike before a television camera, he is forced to wield a gun and join Rizwan in a mission against international terrorism. Showing at: Piccadily, Fun Republic, DT Cinemas, PVR Made of Honor Starring: Patrick Dempsey, Michelle Monaghan Director: Paul Weiland
It’s the perfect setup until Hannah goes overseas to Scotland on a six-week business trip`85 and Tom is stunned to realise how empty his life is without her. He resolves that upon her return, he’ll ask Hannah to marry him – but is floored when he learns that she has become engaged to a handsome and wealthy Scotsman and plans to move overseas. When Hannah asks Tom to be her "maid" of honor, he reluctantly agrees to fill the role`85 but only so he can attempt to woo Hannah and stop the wedding before it’s too late. Hannah’s been there the entire time. Now she’s been taken away from him, and his only recourse is to go to Scotland as her maid of honor and try to win her over Showing at: DT Cinemas
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Hip & Happening Game for a cheesy treat? Three rampscorchers from Mumbai teach us how to eat a pizza in style Stories happen. This is how Pizza Hut people describe its transformation. As part of its fine-dine concept, they launched their new outlet in Sector-10, Panchkula. "We have popularised the concept of casual dining in this country and now we unveil our first restaurant in North India that will take it a step further," said Niren Chaudhary, managing director, Yum Restaurants India Ltd. With a new logo and tagline ‘Stories happen’, it promises to build strong bonds and create memories while enjoying a great pizza. Also present on the occasion were ramp models Mughdha Godse, Shamita Singha and Mashoom Singha. Fashionably yours The winner of Gladrags Mega Model Contest-2002 and Miss India-2004, Mughdha Godse is the new entrant in tinsel ville. She is the latest to join the list of supermodels making foray into Bollywood with Madhur Bhandarkar’s Fashion. "It portrays the emotional journey of those involved in this industry and the struggle that goes behind," says Mughdha, who has shared screen space with SRK in Airtel commercial. She has also taken acting classes from Anupam Kher’s academy to learn the nuances of acting. Over five years in modelling, music videos, commercials and walking on the ramp at national and international shows, why movies now? "I got offers for films earlier, but nothing was connecting till I worked with Madhur on a campaign for PC Jewellers. So when he offered me a role in Fashion, I just couldn’t refuse," says Mughdha. She plays lead alongwith Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranaut, Sameer Soni and Arbaaz Khan. As a fashion insider, she says it was not difficult to prepare for the role. "Being a model, I know how the industry works, so I didn’t have to make special efforts. But Madhur is a great director and knows what he wants from his actors. That makes work easy," says the dusky beauty. Future plans? "I have signed a three-movie deal with Percept Pictures and a few other projects are also in pipeline. Till then I have my fingers crossed," she signs off. Sisters-in-arms They have conquered the ramp with their beauty and their attitude and now they are exploring their options beyond the spotlight. Meet the Singha sisters, Shamita, Miss India Earth-2001 and Mashoom. "I like this concept of casual dining and sharing happy moments over food table," says Shamita. Mashoom seconds her opinion: "I am a big Pizza Hut fan and back home in Mumbai, I am a regular at their outlet whenever I hang out with friends." Brave confession for a ramp scorcher! Both are regular part of the fashion weeks and have done umpteen print as well as TV commercials. Says Shamita: "I have a show called Maximum Style on Zoom and have been hosting events too. I am studying wine management and train people in wine etiquettes and wine tasting." She also writes articles on fashion and styling. As for Mashoom, apart from walking the ramp, she is an image consultant and expert in the art of makeovers. "I believe that looks are only a small part of makeover. It involves your gestures, eating habits and overall personality too," she says. Bollywood dreams? "We are more of fashion types and wish to remain like that," echo the sisters.
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Get Branded It’s the one fashion stop for all those who want to splurge on designer wear. And adding another feather to its designer cap, Samsaara outlet at Taj-17 has launched its two-day exhibition of hi-fashion garments and accessories. For the first time in the city, exhibiting the best of international luxury brands’ latest being, Aigner and Just Cavalli, the Samsaara outlet houses a chic looking collection of handbags, footwear, belts and casual wear for both men and women. Coming to the collection on display, father of the modern patchwork Roberto Cavalli’s collection is a mix of casual and party wear. From tees as simple and cool as they can be to jeans teamed with big buckle shiny belts to tops, the collection also has some stunning backless and bold strap dresses for girls. In animal prints, evergreen stripes and bold patterns, the tops are designed for a perfect body. For our modern well-dressed male, there are casual shirts, t-shirts and cotton tees in vibrant hues. And if you are looking for hot and happening accessories, there are a few to choose from. Starting with some vibrant wallets there are belts to choose from. Free like his imagination, Cavalli’s collection is young and full of life. Talking about Aigner, the elite leather designer’s collection is an amalgamation of innovation and trend. Elegant and timeless, it includes slick looking handbags, footwear, cuff-links and even watches that catch the fancy of the buyer. Embedded with motifs, handbags are a sure eye-catcher. Showcased for a shopper’s delight here, you can pick the hot big bags, clutchers, party bags and bags for casual look. And if you are looking for luggage bags here, you can have your fill with some smart looking black leather bags. Elegant cufflinks are one thing that cannot go unnoticed here. Embedded with precious stones, these stylish pieces come packed in smart boxes and for all you people who are looking for some great gift packs, you can pick a Aigner gift pack of a pen cuff-links and a watch. While the exhibition is heaven for designer freaks, these hi-end designer goods don’t come cheap. On till July 25
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Commonplace objects that inspire painters Buddham Sharanam Gatchami Parbina Rashid
Meghna was not present to explain why she chose to paint such a serene figure in such a fiery backdrop, but the recent exhibitions have seen quite a few artists painting Buddha differently from what we are used to seeing. Another exhibition at Art Scape brought us Mumbai-based artist Ghanshyam Gupta’s creations. He had painted Buddha in meditative positions. Taking Buddha as a symbolic form, he focused more on energy and tranquility, which were achieved through vibrant colours and circular rings in acrylic. Be it for his serene aura or an artist’s own quest for spirituality, Buddha continues to inspire artists. Another veteran artist, who has painted Buddha extensively, is Mumbai-based Charan Sharma. Though Sharma prefers to stick to the realistic genre, his Buddha is a juxtaposition of reality with spirituality through compositions, like a tranquil monastery set against an awesome sky or the serene-faced Buddha carved on stone weathered over the ages.
Well, as city residents we are not totally unfamiliar with Buddha as an artist’s muse. After all, the Government Museum and Art Gallery boasts of the world’s largest collection of Gandhara sculptures along with a few Thangka paintings. For the uninitiated, Thangka or scroll paintings are sacred artifacts used as physical support in Tibetan Buddhist practices. And recently we came across two Mohali-based artists working on Buddha for their forthcoming exhibitions. Ambalicka Sood Jacob has painted 21 frames based on the teachings of Buddha and the social life of Sanghol for her forthcoming exhibition Hope-2008 at Kala Bhawan, Punjabi University, Patiala. She captures the essence of the seventh paths of Dhammapada in watercolours with her semi-realistic forms and monochromatic colour palette. "I wanted to give form to the teachings of Buddha because they give solutions to our self-created problems," says Ambalicka. And in her frames, emphasis is mostly on facial expressions.
Jagdeep Garcha, also from Mohali and teaching at Punjabi University’s Fine Arts department, likes to portray Buddha as a common but complete man. Ask him to elaborate, and he recites this couplet: Koi Sikh ho gaya hai, Koi ban gaya Brahmin; Har shaks aadmi tha, Teri bandegi se pehle. "I see that aadmi in Buddha," says Garcha. His medium is oil on canvas and three symbolic forms appear in most of his frames, semi-figurative Buddha, banyan tree and a fish. The first two symbols we can decipher, but the fish? "It is the symbolic representation of addiction of all kinds towards life." Garcha has been painting Buddha for quite a few years now and one of his paintings Hope-2004 featuring a headless Buddha with Nagraj is on display at Delhi College of Art. He is currently working on a series based on the Sikh principle of Baro Maah. Even in this series he uses a symbolic figure of Buddha in all 12 frames. The series will be part of a group show that Garcha is planning to put up soon. The latest to join the league is Government College of Art teacher J. P. Singh who has painted Buddha on a wooden plank using acrylic. And he likes painting Buddha because through simple lines one can capture the peace he radiates. After all Buddha was, is and will remain a complete human being. (To be continued) parbina@tribunemail.com
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Know me, know my space AS he hands over a copy of Architecture, Life and Me — his latest book — we cannot resist but ask him in a lighter vein, ‘Are you not too young to write an autobiography?’ And young and dashing architect Sangeet Sharma — owner of a shy smile but lots of conviction — assures us that it is not the years, but one’s intensity of involvement with work that determines whether the person is eligible to write an autobiography or not. The answer makes us take him more seriously and read his book a lot more sincerely than the cursory glancing through. This is his fourth after Architectural Aesthetics, Step by Step Hospital Designs and Planning and The Touch of Moon, an anthology of poems. But Architecture, Life is different because while the former highlighted two different aspects of Sangeet — his professional and emotional side — this latest presents him as a complete being. "I gathered the courage to write this one after I was convinced that I was practicing what I had been preaching as a guest lecturer and architect during the 17 years of my career," he says. So, he regards this book as a medium of self-introspection, a refresher course. "There are so many things I learnt the hard way. That’s what I want to share with my readers," he says. And for readership, he is targetting architecture students. The book starts with his childhood, which incidentally coincides with the childhood of Chandigarh. It is a ringside account of a child who saw the city being built brick by brick. The parallels with his own childhood are interestingly worded, "I really envy Chandigarh. The city had a better childhood than I did`85" From there he meanders
through myriad themes — his college days at Lucknow College of
Architecture, his family, his writings, the places he visited, his music
(Sangeet cut his debut album Melody with Me as a singer), his
beliefs and convictions as an architect. Though at times the connecting
thread between the topics tends to falter, the crisp and short sentences,
funny anecdotes and the honesty Published by Rupa & Co, the book is being officially released on Friday.
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Like guru, like shishya S.D. Sharma
Simplicity and innocence are two strong points of this young dancer that come across as she interacts with us. Before we can start, Nisha seeks the approval of her revered guru and mentor Shobha Koser. Winner of over 20 prestigious classical dance competitions at school and state level, including Award of Honour-2006 by the Chandigarh Administration, IPTA cultural festival, KU Sports Fest-2005, Swaran Nritya Pratibha Festival-2005, Nisha has also won the classical dance competition for four times at the JSR Production’s`A0Mumbai Festivals in the city. Nisha had earlier won the Sahyog-Blomington Foundation`A0USA Scholarship in 2002. Her performance at the All-India CDA Western Command Athletic Meet in the same year won her laurels and did her father Jiwan Singh proud, who is an employee with the command. She gives the credit of her success to her mother Savitri, who is an accomplished folk dancer and also her guru under whom she is pursuing`A0her master degree in kathak. Extolling Shobha Koser as a perfect guru, Nisha recalls how her guru had helped with her performance at the prestigious National Dance Festival-2005 organised by Sangeet Natak Akademi at Jammu. "But the moments which will always remain etched on my mind is the performance I gave for the senior citizens at Tagore Theatre last year. A standing ovation by the revered citizens and soulful blessings showered upon me, still rejuvenate me and inspire me to strive for the best," concludes Nisha. (This column appears fortnightly) lifestyletribune@gmail.com
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Anganwadis: Utopias on paper Joyshri Lobo THE pictures make good copy in all the local rags. Anganwadi women workers, braving the sweltering heat, protest before every bureaucrat they think will listen to their woes. They are pushed, prodded, hauled into police vehicles and then released, as there is little room for them in our jails overflowing with errant politicians. Within a few days they are back, protesting again as no relief has come forth. Talk to supervisors and heads of departments and one gets the impression that these workers are fussing over nothing. They say the anganwadi programme is working well. I am sure registers bear witness to the same. On paper, the concept is utopian. Children from the poorest families are left (free of cost!) at the nearest anganwadi while the parents set out to earn as bartanwaalis, safaiwaalas, rickshaw-pullers and beggars. Every working day, the teacher, with a helper in tow, smiles as she takes charge of infants. They should not be younger than 18 months and no older than six years. As soon as the guardians disappear, the nightmare begins. The Sisters Grimm hit any child who cries. Thereafter one hears a stifled whimper or deathly silence. The teacher starts educating her charges with a set of recommended poems: Johnny, Johnny! Yes Papa and Machli jal ki rani hai. All, irrespective of age, learn these and other basic subjects at top speed even if they cannot understand a single word, as fear of the raised hand offer the greatest impetus! Beatings and constant submission are accepted practices in families and schools throughout Mera Bharat Mahan. I am convinced this is the ideal tool to teach us how to behave at home and abroad. Cringe, cower and all will be well in every walk of life, is the message that is driven home Most of the morning is spent by the helpers making kheer or panjiri for their wards. This is considered an imaginative option for a midday meal. Every month, tins of dry milk, sugar, rice or wheat are left at the anganwadi to cater to this exciting scheme. Fuel for preparation has to be gathered from the neighbouring forest or from an obliging cow. Gas cylinders exist but only on paper, as do books, writing materials and toys. Could a few vegetables not be added to improve the vitamin intake in a well-prepared khichdi? Nothing doing! The meal has to be made as per the pamphlet that has probably been written by a disgruntled bachelor in some dusty, difficult-to-find office. As the children prepare to leave after a depressed, horrific morning under the cruel eye of human hatchets, many grandmothers, older siblings and relatives come with gleaming vessels to collect a share of the midday meal for lactating mothers. It is a dream concocted in hell. So why do the women protest so much? Their pay scales are good provided the money is dispersed on time, which it often is not. They have no materials to work with. The senior officials are smart, articulate, beautiful and well turned out. But mention teaching materials, utensils, fuel and toys and they talk about some distant department that is slowing down procedures inspite of repeated reminders. Are they not a part of that department? Obviously not! If they were, things would be smoother. I am a great admirer of Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh and the nuclear deal, but what is happening to the seeds of our future power? (This column appears weekly)
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Swap your style!
GOT a watch that doesn’t work? How about exchanging it for a new one at a 25% off? Beginning Friday, visit your nearest Titan store and infuse a new wave of style, technology and functionality into your wardrobe. You can bring in any old watch, of any make, in any condition, functional or otherwise and receive of the offer. Speaking on the offer, Sandeep Badoni (ASM) Greater Punjab, Titan Watches, said, “The exchange offer will enable the customer to own a new watch while giving value for the old one. We will also be contributing to the environment by adopting an eco-friendly process of recycling discarded watches.” The offer is valid on Octane, Heritage, Raga Crystals, Aviator, Edge and Spell ranges from July 25 to August 24.
— TNS |
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Patients with back pain are generally advised bed rest for a period of about two to three weeks. It is believed that bed rest is a natural healer and physical activity can irritate the spine leading to increase in pain. Prolonged rest can cause cardiovascular de-conditioning, loss of bone mass and weakening of spinal muscles. Activities that aggravate pain like heavy manual work, lifting heavy weights, sitting for long duration of time, driving etc. should be avoided. Exercise: Avoid prolonged sitting. After a week try walking for 10-15 minutes every six hours of bed rest. Once able to get up comfortably, begin walking but avoid any kind of twisting or bending exercises. Physical activity can be increased slowly while at the same time avoiding movements that aggravate pain. Bed rest should not be recommended as treatment for low back pain. In severe pain, bed rest is recommended for a short period — Dr Ravinder Chadha
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TAROT TALK ARIES: You would receive help and support at home says the Hermit card. In finance, avoid commitments or promises. Socially, there may be many things on the anvil. Those in business may not have productive interactions with foreign clients. Lucky Colour: Saffron. Tip of the week: Be confident and energetic.
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THE
film is a comedy brimming with stars. Govinda's (paired opposite Hansika)
next release after the super hit of last year, Partner, is about
his eventful and whirlwind journey as Bobby, a planner along with five
losers – Lala Bhai (Bajpai), a failed businessman, Gaurav, an honest
copywriter, Manik (Upen), a struggling model, Shruti, a struggling fashion
designer, and Ashima (Hansika), a successful TV actress.
VIKAS
Sagar (Zayed) would go anywhere for a scoop, risk his life and limb to get
an exclusive story. It's for this reason Vikas is watched by six million
viewers weeknights on TV 24.
IN
Columbia Pictures’ romantic comedy Made of Honor, Tom (Patrick)
leads a good life: he’s sexy, he’s successful, and he knows he can
always rely on Hannah (Michelle), his delightful best friend and the one
constant in his life. She has a sense of humour and gets a kick out of all
of his stories about his adventures. The truth is, she really does have a
thing for Tom, but she never acts on it. She doesn’t see the potential
for a long-term relationship because he doesn’t believe in marriage and
she, with her whole heart, does.
WE had no idea that actor Vivek Oberoi
had a sister before Episode-9 brought to the city a few of her works as
part of an exhibition called Collector’s Corner recently.
There we discovered upcoming artist Meghna Oberoi and along with her, we
rediscovered Buddha. Because she painted Buddha in an unusual fashion —
reclining — with the most serene eyes you had ever seen. As for the
background, she used bright red.
‘KHUSHBOO ko phailne ki tammana toh hai, magar
mumkin nahin hawaon se rishta kiye bageir..." The essence of
this Urdu couplet describes Nisha Thakur’s philosophy of life, the
upcoming kathak dancer, who holds that no art and artiste can
blossom`A0without the blessings of a perfect guru, a prestigious
platform and a healthy critical appreciation by the audience.