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Nanis & nano kids
It’s give and take. The young ones receive tradition from the grandparents. And the senior relatives get tech wisdom in return. On Grandparents’ Day, a fresh peek into the age-old equation… They say genes skip generations. Maybe that’s why grandparents find their grandchildren so likeable. A bliss to hang around with, grandparents are one species that never complains or censures and even takes on the added responsibility of raising their third generation with a smile. We find out what makes the wrinkled faces (ah, not so creased nowadays!) a hit with their geeky grandkids. Love, uncensured
“If my daughter is being raised well I owe it all to my in-laws,” says Gurpreet, a resident of Phase VII, SAS Nagar. The bonding between grandparents and grandchildren is legendary, more often than not, being laced with tales of undiluted appreciation. “Though everyone promotes nuclear families, I believe kids who have grandparents around are well-adjusted, strong on ethics and traditional values. Grandparents bring about tenderness in the children which is not possible if kids are on their own, as the parents are busy most of the time,” sums up Gurpreet. “The element of selfishness is less in children who have grannies around. If children are left in the company of ayahs and servants, they lose out on the warmth and care of the grandparents,” says Aroma Dewan, teacher, Govt Model High School-34. On the ever-growing concept of the ‘independent kid’ she says, “Of course, kids who are away from grandparents learn to be on their own early in life, but they also miss the affection that only the grandparents can shower.” Talk with the grandparents and they are still game for babysitting. “Kids are always a bliss to be with. And when they are grandkids, they become more dear,” says Promila Das, president, Ladies Club-9. Talk about the generation gap and she says, “It’s a part of the game, but parents can always relate to their flesh and blood. And when it comes to grandkids, it’s a give and take. We teach them sanskaars, tell them about traditions, family ties and how to maintain relations. On the other hand, we learn from them what is happening around, the latest of gizmos, toys and bollywood gupshup.” “Well, staying together isn’t necessary to create a strong bond, it’s the hearts that need to be close,” says Reeta Kapoor, a former teacher of Carmel Convent and resident of Sector-8. On her relation with her grandson, she says, “ Though my grandson doesn’t stay with me, we still share a close bond. And I even get a Valentine’s Day call and flowers from my baby love.” Talking about passing on values and traditions, she says, “Surely, kids who stay with grandparents get more of love.” How do they relate to the tech-savvy, iPod nano-sporting grandkids, “Oh, kids are smart these days. They know everything, right from mobiles to laptops. When it comes to technology, we can learn a lot from them. Other than that, they can teach us how to get smart.” jigyasachimra@tribunemail.com |
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It’s patriotism mega size. Two minutes of the National Anthem in one of the multiplexes before three hours of fun. Do the city cine-goers respond to this track as a mere reflex action or are they really moved? Jasmine Singh feels the pulse…
Patriotic fervour big time. All and sundry present in the audi stand up to remember the brave soldiers of the country. Two minutes of this video and then…on with the flick. Munching popcorns, sipping a coke, and enjoying Akshay Kumar romance Katrina Kaif with Ji karda tainu kol bithaawaan ji karda… So, how do cine-goers find it: switching from the desh-ko-salaam sentiment to enjoyment mode? Standing up to the patriotic song: is it just a reflex action or they actually swear by it? A reality check… Says Satbir Sethi, city-based businessman from Panchkula, "This could be a new thing in the Chandigarh theatres. In Mumbai, it is mandatory for all theatres to play the National Anthem, and audiences participate with gusto. I was happy to see the same being done at Fun Republic." Adds Satbir, who sees this as a good move, "As far as I think, audiences like this kind of a thing, and each one of them feels strongly for the country. Those two minutes conjure up images of our soldiers, who sacrificed their lives for the country." And then back to the fun mode? "It's a natural process," says 18-year-old Meenakshi Sachdeva. For those 2-3 minutes I feel for the country and once its over, I sit back to watch the movie with some kind of subconscious satisfaction. I have at least spared some moments for the bravehearts of the country." Ditto for Saurabh and his friends who call themselves biggest movie buffs on the earth. "The only time we remember our country is either on Independence or Republic day. But at FR, the short video before the movie is a good reminder for all youngsters of what the soldiers are doing for their country." And then of course you can sit back and enjoy! "Of course. So much so, after that drill I don't feel useless. It leaves us with a nice feeling of
Indianness!"
jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Matka chowk
A large number of women in our generation have proven wrong that -"men know best."
My emphatic repudiation of this old adage sometimes loses its wind. Although, the feminists of this city might hate me for saying this - there are some things best left to men. I have never been fond of car servicing. It means to me an entire day without wheels and freedom. This year the misfortune of taking the car to the dealership fell upon me. One hot morning, I found myself at the end of a queue. The dealership associates, as they call themselves, converged upon me. Before I could even brief them - they started scratching away work orders in illegible hands and had a bunch of things penned down. "Madam," they said - " A needs changing, B needs replacing, C needs cleaning, D needs rehauling." And so on. The list of to-dos was daunting and so was the estimate they gave me. When I tried to ponder upon the list, they urged on hurriedly and disdainfully, When I decided to wake up and delete some of the items, they looked scandalized. But, "Madam - yeh to zarrori hain! Apko pata nahi hoga .” My stomach felt a lot worse when I went to pick up my car. Apparently, the labour charges were variable for each additional work. The associate thrusted customer responses form in my hands and literally hunched over my head, while I tried to grade.and at every average grade, he howled in protest . When I said - "Form aap bhar rahe ho ya mein?" he turned sullen and squinted his eyes in a manner that was quite infuriating. After a while, my high pitched screams in English woke up the somnolent manger. When I sputtered and muttered like Bette Middler as a kidnapped curmudgeon, he tried to pacify me. "Madam, aap excite kyon ho rahe ho? Aap bolo kya problem hai." At that I told him, I would never do business with them again and stomped out. (This column appears weekly) |
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Watchable Devoid of needless songs and dances and the female lead, the first half fails to hold much promise with Anupam setting up a war room at the police headquarters to deal with the situation, Naseeruddin giving him orders from the terrace of an under-construction building and Jimmy Shergill overplaying his cop act. Post-interval, there are unexpected twists and turns and the thriller has a climax of shocking discoveries. Shah is clearly the winner in this game of one-upmanship. As the caller who keeps the entire police force on tenterhooks, Shah plays his role with conviction. Though his lecture on the society’s indifference to mindless acts of violence and the common man’s response to it sound like preachy sermonising, it nevertheless remains an integral part of the theme. Anupam Kher also plays his role with restraint. His nonchalant attitude in the face of adversity is remarkable. Though the film may not do much to boost the career of Shergil, it will open a new wind of opportunity for the underrated actor. Aamir Bashir in a cameo is impressive. However, as a TV reporter, Naina, Deepal Shaw is a washout. Director Neeraj Pandey’s date with terror is full of surprises with not a single dull moment. Showing at Fun Republic, PVR Cinemas, Suraj - Panchkula
Crash landing
Avoidable There seems to be no shine left in Shiney Ahuja who desultorily plays the role of a burnt-out pilot who swings into action to rescue his daughter. As if Ahuja’s indifference was not enough, Esha Deol plays the most unconvincing airhostess to reduce the narrative to a badly written and clumsily executed piece of filmmaking. Showing at DT Mall, Fun Republic,
PVR Cinemas Innocence lost
TIMEPASS Purav Bhandare, though not in the league of Darsheel Safari of Taare Zameen Par, gives a heartwarming performance. In fact, the entire film revolves around Bhandare and Birbal. Sarika as Purav’s mute mother conveys a lot without saying anything. Rahul Bose and Victor Banerjee are hugely wasted in the roles of a trader’s understudy and Tahaan’s grandfather, respectively. Anupam Kher as the man who buys the donkey but later realises its bond with the eight-year-old boy. Showing at Fun Republic, PVR Cinemas |
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Inviting innovation
“Theatre in India should be made vibrant and innovative if it has to survive. It has lost its credibility at the hands of its incompetent practitioners. With the help of the new crop of ‘professionals’ emerging from institutionalised drama schools, both in the private or government sector, theatre will touch new heights in perfection and popularity,” professes Satyabrata Rout, the foremost disciple of the legendary thespian B.V. Karanth. Rout, born and raised in Orissa, graduated in science and went on to do postgraduation in theatre from Utkal University. A 1983 passout from the NSD Delhi, he learnt the finer nuances of theatre and performing art under the tutelage of Karanth for almost 22 years. A veteran who has directed over 50 plays in Indian and abroad, Rout has also directed and presented Hayavadn in Spanish at Columbia and Nagamandala in Singhali in Sri Lanka. In the city to stage a play Karan Katha for Triveni Sahaye Samriti Sansthan, Allahabad, at the ongoing national theatre festival in Panchkula. A reader in theatre at S.N .School University, Hyderabad, Rout has been nursing a grouse against those at the helm for the tardy promotion of the performing, visual arts or cultural heritage. “There is nothing like national theatre in India, it retains an identity by representing the aspirations and lifestyles of respective regions. Theatre should be nurtured and promoted from the district, state and regional levels,” says Rout. The ongoing national festival is not in the true spirit of a utsav, as they claim. The concept of a festival means a mela of artists, technicians and directors, wherein all should share their aesthetic experiences and the regional cultural aspects. “But it is not so,” he rues. “Out of the three genres of theatre, the folk had its own grandeur and the popular theatre form is richly practised in Maharashtra, whereas Karnataka leads in experimental or modern theatre. “Awareness and devoted dedication brings exalting results,” feels Rout, adding that a private family theatre group Surbhi in Nalganda district of Andhra has celebrated 275 years of its glorious existence. “Theatre in India will shine in all its grandeur and invincibility by year 2020, “ predicts Rout.
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Sapru honoured
Subhash Sapru, a Haryana PRO, is a self-taught photographer who has now become an associate of the Photographic Society of America in India. The honour was conferred upon him by the society at a function held during its annual International Conference at Portland, USA. Sapru is the only Indian among the seven persons shortlisted by the PSA. So what are the tasks that he has on his hands? Says Sapru: “Motivate more people to take up photography which, in turn, will help them derive creative satisfaction. I too have been doing it ever since I took up the camera,” he says.
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NDTV Good Times turns one
Missed some of the shows on NDTV Good Times? Don’t worry, for you can now catch all the episodes with your favourite anchors from food to fitness, travel to adventure, fashion to luxury and that too all day long.
NDTV Good Times celebrates its first anniversary with a special Classic Stack Up and the special preview Good Times Showcase wherein you can catch some exciting fresh programming. |
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Tarot Talk
ARIES: The Ace of Pentacles says see you at your creative best. Projects and tasks that you had worked hard on would bear results and dividends. Due to the additional pressure at work, there may be some difficulty in maintaining relationships and friendships. Lucky Colour: Green. Astro Tip: Put behind the unpleasant events of the past and look forward TAURUS: The Prince of Cups says you would be infused with imagination and combined with your inherent intelligence, you would come up with some ideas that would be profitable and ingenious. This would be a positive and encouraging week for business and career aspects. Lucky Colour: Yellow. Tip: Be patient and preserving. GEMINI: You draw The Fool since you are not the sorts who takes feedback very easily, it is important that you learn to evaluate the criticism before reacting. Health related concerns might crop up towards the end of the week. Lucky Colour: Lush green. Tip: Don’t make impulsive decisions. CANCER: The Hanged Man predicts many of you would receive positive news this week and it would lift up your spirits. At work, you would be on a high and would be open to new projects, challenges and responsibilities. Financially, there may be some windfalls. Lucky Colour: Crimson. Tip: Meditate to maintain balance of your head and heart. LEO: The Prince of Wands this would be a good time for Leo women. Domestic situation would be quite as usual, however, there may be some arguments around Thursday. Travel for pleasure would be relaxing. Lucky Colour: Turquoise. Tip: Try to curb your bad habits. VIRGO: The card Hermit says challenges in the shape of jealous people, competition and rivalry would continue to stand in your path. In your personal relationships, there may be some compromises that have to be made. Health and money matters would be relatively stable in this week. Lucky Colour: Lime green. Tip: Listen to what others have to say. LIBRA: You draw The Chariot. Many of you would find intimate relationships changing in nature due to the issue of money- spending, loans, debts, etc. A certain friend may betray your trust in him/her. At work, keep your eyes and ears open for new information. Lucky Colour: Earthy brown. Tip: Trust your intuition. SCORPIO: The Princes of Swords says you would be able to attract people and win them over with your sincerity and warmth. At work, someone may be envious of your good people skills, so be wary. Now is also, a good time to discuss feelings and be tactful yet frank in expressing them. Lucky Colour: Golden. Tip: At work hold steady, make no major changes in your routine. SAGITTARIUS: The Wheel of Fortune says this would be quite a positive week. Give time to children and be there for them as often as you can. Windfalls and bonuses would make your days brighter. Lucky Colour: Golden yellow. Tip: Focus on meditation; exercise and yoga. CAPRICORN: Seven of Cups reveals most Capricorns would be brimming with confidence and creativity. In your personal life, there would be peacefulness and tranquility; however, some of you may have to make a few adjustments and compromises. Lucky Colour: Creamy white. Tip: Do not get tied down by any promises. AQUARIUS: The Sun says the highlight of the week would be helping out others and also, taking care of your own needs and desires. Finances, too, would see an improvement however; you would need to keep a tight hold on the purse strings. Lucky Colour: Chocolate brown. Tip: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confusion yourself. PISCES: Your card is Eight of Wands so in personal relationships, a combination of frankness and sensitivity would be needed to bring closeness and warmth. Towards the end of the week, money problems would seem to resolve themselves, giving you a much-needed break. Lucky Colour: Saffron. Tip: If you insist on leading a fast life, you may aggravate your problems. ASTRO ADVICE
I am plus two medical student. Please analyse my horoscope and predict whether I will get success in reaching my aim. — Gautam, Chandigarh The Knight of Swords lends you brilliance and new vision for the future so you will be winner even in difficult situations. An auspicious period is ahead till December 2010 as such so you will get admission in the medical stream. According to vaastu keep your face towards East while studying. |
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An unnamed person (Naseeruddin Shah) calls him, demanding the release of four militants in lieu of information about bombs that the man has planted in various parts of the city. The police chief first suspects it to be a hoax, but his doubts are cleared once a bomb is found in a police station opposite his office. Should the hardened terrorists be released or the lives of innocents be endangered by not conceding his demand is the dilemma Rathod faces. But once he decides to free the terrorists, things take turns beyond the wildest expectations of the top cop.
Tahaan: Tahaan is a fable about a boy’s search for a donkey in the face of odds –a poignant story of innocence lost in a valley of turmoil. Cinematographer-cum-director Santosh Sivan manages to hold interest with his visually opulent tale of the trauma of little Tahaan (Purav Bhandare) whose father has been missing for a number of years and who lives in abject poverty with his mother, Mauji (Sarika) and sister in a ramshackle house on the fringes of Srinagar. Tahaan’s bonding with his donkey, Birbal, is put to test when in the face of mounting debts, the family sells the animal to a trader. Then begin the kid’s desperate attempts to get back Birbal.