Who says the winter is all about layering with woolies? It's in fact about making a style statement and you can do it with élan.

A rough terrain is something not usually associated with City beautiful. But then for those who have an eye and a heart for adventure, Chandigarh is the place to be.

How? Ask all the off-roading enthusiasts who came together for a weekend of thrill and adventure, thanks to 4x4, a rally club in the city that has become a hub for adventure rallyists.

It organised an off-road rally for its members and others who share the passion, for some Sunday thrills, taking Chandigarh Club as the starting point.

So, we saw 15 to 20 mean machines, all ready to hit the road in style. "Anyone who has a 4x4 wheel drive and has the energy to match is a part of the rally. We have 15 of our members here and there are amateur rallyists as well," says Billy Gill, founder member of 4x4. He has been part of many such events.

But then off-roading in the city, where? "We drive down to areas that one has never been before and follow a proper reccee, mostly inside and outside Chandigarh's periphery. This time we are going to the interiors of Baddi," he says.

So, picture this, thrusting vehicles through slushy riverbeds, pools of mud and mean cuts. Some thrill!

But along with the fun factor comes the risk. "Only a trained or hardcore rallyist is aware of the problems and situations one may encounter. But we make sure to give them tips before starting off," says Billy.

Now, they even identify the blood groups of the participants just in case of a medical emergency.

Going by the enthusiasm and success of such rallies, 4x4 is planning to take its 'perfect weekend' plans a step further by making it a monthly event.

"Chandigarh is a place where people have time, interest and passion for off-roading. They are ready to test their and their vehicles' limits. So, once a month rally sounds perfect," he says. With zest filling in for fuel, life is sure to hit the fast track in this otherwise calm city.

Four-wheel drive, 4WD, or 4 x 4 is a four-wheeled vehicle with a drive train that allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultaneously.

Many people associate the term with off-road vehicles, powering all four wheels provides better control in normal road cars on many surfaces, and is an important part of racing.

In 4 x 4, the first figure is the number of wheels, the second is the number of powered wheels.

4 x 2 means a four-wheel vehicle in which engine power is transmitted to only two wheels: the front two in front-wheel drive or the rear two in rear-wheel drive.

You tug onto them as if they contained a decade's earning, anything required and there is endless search in further endless number of pockets, but despite carrying it so close hardly ever does the girlie brigade find anything in their bags (or so it's said), before spending good five minutes! Forget that, but what all do they keep in their bags?

Without waiting for the certified research by the Ivy League universities on the subject matter, we try playing a bit of 'truth and dare' with the female folk and end up a lot wiser in the process.

Women carry their world in the bag, or so, it seems, after talking to some of them. And you thought it was just cash, cell and cards that could be carried? Think again.

As Supriya Saini, M.A English student, says, "I carry everything. You name it and I have it. My whole vanity kit and even shampoo bottle!"

She laughs, "You never know, what is required when. And I guess it's the since-school conditioning of putting up with heavy bags." We suppose it's also the spirit of carrying paraphernalia that rules here.

Get a little bolder and a little whackier. Shrink your clothes and extend your bag and you can actually trade it for luggage. The difference being that here instead of traveling between continents you just traverse sectors.

Himani Bahuguna, Functional English student of G.C.G-42, says, "Well, I carry clothes like a couple of tops to shuttle between my tuitions and a party." Now that's some smart multi-tasking.

And no, your dressing room articles aren't the only ones that can be carried. Think beyond. Like kitchen. Manveen Kaur, a software engineer, smiles, "I carry fruits whichever possible. Bananas, apples and dry-fruit at anytime?"

We also have a strong safety lesson. Kritika, a hosteller, says, "Among other things, I carry a compass in my bag. This is not to misuse but to protect myself from any untoward incident. And that's the only weird thing I have in my bag. Rest everything is normal." Evil elements, beware!

Then there are those that were the inspiration behind this story. The ones that fit and kip in everything. Think of the word clutter. Safety pins, envelopes, passport photos, empty cream bottles and you get the picture.

But we don't have all the extreme cases. Some like to carry it light too. As Isha Kakkaria, an M.B.A student, says, "I don't leave my house without my bag and carry in it, a good-luck idol apart from my business card diary, comb, bit of make-up and the usual stuff. I like to keep it light."

She further adds, "There are also people who carry little gifts by their loved ones."Clothes to make-up to eatables to protective devices! It's more of whatever you can fit. Wait a minute. Hey, what's in your bag?

manpriya@tribunemail.com.

An authentic South Indian Food Carnival was organised by the Orthodox Syrian Church Society on St Mary's School premises on Sunday.

An effort by some 55 families associated with the church was a fundraiser for various charity projects for the uplift of the needy like scholarships, tailoring classes, donation of artificial limbs, sewing machines and medical camps.

Apart from regular dosa and vada, the festival had delicacies popular from Kerala like pradaman, porotta with chicken, vellayappam, kappa, fish curry, pallapam and puttu.

Kerala porrata, originally a Muslim dish, is now popular in places other than Kerala too. Also, delicacies made from tapioca (Casava) root, once food of the poor, has now found place in common man's palate.

Some of these delicacies were prepared right in front of you. Also, the center of attraction was South Indian fruit stalls with Kerala plantains, bananas, coconut, pineapple, tapioca and supari.

For the festival, fresh stuff was brought right from Kerala. There were also stalls for the homemade achaar and snacks.

"The preparations are on from the last one month to make this day a success. Families have been working together to get stuff ready for the festival," said Father Ninan Philip.

The event saw a variety of cultural performances by the school students. It got a good response from the city folks who descended to taste the very authentic food and be part of the charity.

When it comes to Bollywood, those we see are the stars, sometimes the director and now even the choreographers but that's not all what goes into making a film.

There are others involved in creating the whole effect, and one of the important links are the sound recordists.

The city had such a visitor on Sunday from the tinsel town - Kuldeep Sood, a known name when it comes to sound recording.

In the tricity to be a part of Golden Jubilee Celebration of Sood Sabha, the visit was a rushed one for the busy chief recording engineer with Lakdawala's Sound City.

Born in a small Himachal hamlet, Garli, for Kuldeep a diploma in sound recording from FTII, Pune paved the way for Bollywood.

Having worked with many a names like V. Shantaram, Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, Satyajit Ray, Manmohan Desai, Farah Khan, Madhur Bhandarkar, Suraj Barjatiya, David Dhawan and Subhash Ghai, he was the man behind the complete recording of dialogues and background music for Sholay. So far, he has been a sound recordist for more than a thousand films.

In Bollywood for decades, this man has grown with the industry, "Well, a lot has changed. I started working with names like V. Shantaram and Raj Kapoor. At that time the films belonged to a particular school. Proper training was significant. Not any more. Not that, we don't have good film makers today, but then a majority of films even fail to get noticed."

"On the other hand, we have advanced a lot technology wise. Now even Hollywood has started recognising Indian potential and there is not one but many a films that are seeing collaboration between the two," he adds.

Ask him to elaborate more about his work and he tells all, "My work falls in post-production stage. The overall mixing of dialogues, background score, special effects falls under my purview." About the projects on hand, he says, "I have just finished work for Jahnu Barua's Har Pal. As soon as I am back, I am going to start working on Nikhil Advani's Chandni Chowk to China Town."

mona@tribunemail.com.

'Silent Fascinations', a ten day exhibition of paintings by Ludhiana based artist Navpreet Grewal Dhillon opened at the Artizen Art Gallery Phase XI in Mohali today.

The debut exhibition of the artist was inaugurated by Jasjit Singh Bunny, Chairman of the Punjab State Cooperative Bank Limited.

Navpreet is masters in fine arts from Khalsa College Ludhiana and has been working in oil and water colours for almost a decade.

Lots of her works grace the walls of many institutions in Ludhiana.

"I believe that art is an imitation of nature and forms of expressions lie within its definition. The exhibition is an effort to do the same," says Navpreet.

Being a daughter of an army officer and also married to one Navpreet has travelled extensively. "Traveling provided me with ample opportunities to observe nature in its myriad forms," she adds.

Speaking on the occasion, Jasjit Singh said creative endeavour should be a part of every one's life. "The young should inculcate a hobby and pursue it to excellence," he said.

Navpreet is exhibiting thirty five works based on nature.

On till November 25. — TNS

With everyone around talking about size zero and six pack abs, a very important segment of the society getting conveniently ignored is the kids.

Ever wondered, if anything is being done to maintain their health. When you get all tied up with your strenuous gyming session, or a fun filled work out at a salsa class, the kids are left with no options but turn into couch potatoes.

It's time to bring them in focus. And, this is exactly what Cleopatra plans to do. Child Obesity Awareness Camp, being organised at all centres, Sector-8, 44, Mohali and Panchkula, plans not only to monitor the health of the children above seven years of age, but also motivate them to adhere to a healthy lifestyle and develop in them alternative and healthy eating habits.

Adds Harveen Kathuria, clinic head, Cleopatra, "We noticed youngsters and elders are pretty conscious about health, but when it comes to kids, nothing much is being done about it. Most kids today spend long hours in front of television, or playing games on the computer, leading to various health problems especially obesity. So much so, we can see almost an obesity epidemic spreading amongst kids."

So, if you are worried about your kids overweight, Cleopatra will help you monitor your childs' physical fitness.

"At the camp we monitor the kids height weight index, stress level, capacity of work out and mental sharpness," tells Harveen. "Children who are overweight are lazy and their intelligence level is also reduced considerably".

Parents and the kids collectively need to work on it. At the camp, the kids are motivated to adopt healthy eating habits.

Offers Harveen, who is happy with the response, "We give the kids an alternate recipe book, wherein we tell them to rustle up healthy food. For instance, instead of butter, they can have low calorie cream or chutney. Not only this, dieticians and psychologists at the camp tell how they can manage to stay fit even if they binge on junk food."

The kids coming at the camp are informed about how to maintain fitness levels in case their intake comprises of pizzas and coke, but in moderation. As for Harveen, "It is the question of the coming generation and so it is all the most important that kids are fit and healthy."

On till November 21.

People who eat low energy dense breakfast have improved diet quality, and may have a better ability to maintain a healthy weight.

The study, published in the November 2008 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that those who enjoy a less energy dense morning meal have diets that are richer in important vitamins and minerals and lower in saturated fat and cholesterol compared to those who consume a more energy dense meal.

The study explored whether or not the energy density - the number of calories in relation to the grams of foods and beverages, consumed at breakfast predicted energy density and diet quality for the rest of the day, as well as weight among 12,000 US women and men (as assessed by BMI - body mass index).

"Our new findings carry several important implications concerning breakfast and overall health," says study co-author, cardiologist Dr James Rippe of the Rippe Lifestyle Institute.

"Our study confirms the findings of many previous studies that eating breakfast helps maintain a healthy weight and provides multiple health benefits. However, what's unique is that we found lower energy density breakfast foods and beverages high in nutrients, such as whole-grain oatmeal and 100 per cent orange juice, appear to predict better food choices for the rest of the day and may help with better management of body weight," the expert added.

The energy density concept provides new insights into better understanding weight management strategies.

Recent studies have reported that individuals with lower energy density diets gain less weight as they age.

Generally, foods with the lowest energy density include fruits, vegetables, soups and whole grains that soak up water, such as oatmeal or rice.

Fats and oils, fried foods, desserts, crackers and pretzels are highest in energy density. The more calories per gram of food, equals greater energy density.

For example, a breakfast pastry would have more calories per gram (more energy dense) than a bowl of oatmeal and glass of 100 per cent orange juice. — ANI

Oral - B's latest offering, Oral - B 1-2-3, aims to provide it all. With its three quintessential features viz. cleans teeth, cleans tongue and soft on gums, and competitive pricing, at Rs 20, the toothbrush ensures that it provides appropriate along with affordable care resulting in healthy teeth and gums.

Developed using an intelligent technology, Oral - B 1-2-3 offers meticulous brushing method by cleaning in-between teeth and along the gum line.

The innovatively designed tongue cleaner at the back of the brush head guarantees a fresh feel throughout the day.

The product distinguishes itself on the basis of four main features:
Bristle pattern - Cup-shaped bristles designed to clean in-between teeth and along the gum line.
Tongue cleaner - Oral -B 1-2-3 designed with a textured surface molded into the back of the brush head to act as a tongue cleaner to help freshen breath. The tongue cleaner is designed to be used to scrape across surface of the tongue to remove bacteria.
End rounded bristles - End rounded bristles which are soft on gums.
Indicator bristles - Blue indicator bristles fade halfway so you know when to replace your brush. Dentists recommend changing your brush every 3 months.

The toothbrush is available at all retail outlets and chemist stores in various colours since November 1, 2008. — TNS

Every season comes with its own pros and cons. If the sweltering sun and harmful ultra violet rays are a problem in the summers, then the winter has its own share of worries," says Dr. Swami Das Mehta, skin specialist with General Hospital-16.

Two main problems that are constant for many people are chill blains and skin allergy or eczema.

Chill Blains: Says Dr Mehta, "Chill blains are an abnormal reaction to the cold, which affects the hands and feet especially the fingers. This occurs due to the contact with cold water, cold floor or any cold object. In chill blains, the fingers turn red and develop itching."

The problem mostly develops in the month of January, but in some people it starts around September and October, even in the summers.

Prevention: "The only way to avoid chill blains is to cover your hands while working," offers Dr Mehta.

As far as possible, cover your hands before doing any kind of cleaning or washing. Homemakers are recommended to wear cotton gloves, and as the winter progresses they should switch to woollen gloves and socks.

While moving out in the cold, cover your face with a monkey cap. In addition to this, wash clothes in warm water only.

This might sound like 'a not an easy task' but there is no other prevention. "Repeated exposure to cold can also lead to ulcers," adds Dr Mehta.

Eczema: As per Dr. Mehta, "Our body is prone to develop allergies during the winters. In some in takes the form of Bronchal Asthma, while in others it can be in the form of rhinitis and others in the form of skin problem."

Most common problem is of the skin allergy, where the skin develops multiple lesions and becomes itchy due to less water intake.

According to the skin specialist, "Oil massage in the morning and night can solve the problem. But the massage should be done before the bath.

And, use a soap that does not cause dryness. Lastly, wear cotton clothes and consult a skin specialist and do not indulge in self- medication."

As a preventive measure, Dr Mehta recommends to stay away from food that has preservatives. Foods like peanuts, chocolate, processed cheese, cold drinks, fish eggs, and honey can also cause allergy.

Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan, who has a penchant for acting with debutante, says that he has evolved as an actor after working with newcomers.

"It is always a new feeling working with newcomers. They teach you a lot," Khan, who is paired against newcomer Anushka Sharma in his forthcoming film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, said during an interaction with media persons.

"They (newcomers) are not over-awed by the fact that you have done 60 films. They respect you a lot but do their own stuff," he said.

"I see them responding to expressions in a new way and I get to learn. They help me be a better actor," he added.

Khan's tyrst with newcomers began in 1993 when he was paired against Suchitra Krishnamurthy in the commercially and critically successful Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa.

The Baadshah of Bollywood later went on to star with Mahima Chaudhary (Pardes-1997), Preity Zinta (Dil Se-1998), Gayatri Joshi (Swades-2004) and with the Chak-De girls and last year with Deepika Padukone in Om Shanti Om.

On Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Khan said, the film deals with the trials and tribulations of husband-wife relationships.

"The film is an entertainer that is intriguing as well as thrilling and deals with the relationship that exists between a middle-class husband and wife," he said. Incidentally, the movie is King Khan's first release in 14 months.

"I haven't had a release for a long time because of my schedules but I believe that this movie will fulfil the kasar of the past 14 months. Rab Ne Bana... is the last release of the year but not at all the least," he added.

While his Haule-Haule jig in the film is getting popular, Shahrukh remains modest about his dancing abilities.

"I am not being modest but truly this Pappu can't dance saala. I genuinely have two left feet," he said.

Hollywood actress Charlize Theron has been
appointed as United Nations messenger of
peace for her contribution in ending violence
against women.

With the new title, the 33-year-old actress has
joined in ranks of fellow actors George Clooney
and Michael Douglas.

"You have used your voice, compassion and special
relationship with the public to create a better world,"
a website quoted U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon,
as telling Theron, while awarding her the title.

The Oscar winner has founded the Charlize Theron
Africa Outreach Project with the goal of promoting
HIV/AIDS education for impoverished children and
their families in South Africa.

Mourning Jennifer Hudson has thanked her fans for their support following the tragic deaths of her mother, brother and seven-year-old nephew.

Oscar-winner used her MySpace blog to post a message of thanks to all those who have expressed their sympathy since the horrific killings.

"I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time... My sister and I take great comfort and strength from your love and concern," a website quoted her, as writing on the blog.

Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, and brother, Jason, were shot dead at their home in Chicago, Illinois on 24 October (08).

While the body of her seven-year-old nephew, Julian King, was found in an abandoned car three days later.

Fashion designer Rohit Gandhi called on the fashion fraternity to come up with affordable and wearable clothes in times of global turmoil and recessionary trends.

Speaking to reporters after a glamorous Chivas fashion show here on Friday, Gandhi one of the designers of the designer duo Rohit Gandhi-Rahul Khanna, said that even the fashion industry needs to do its bit to come to the rescue of the customers in difficult times.

"That is terrible news to departmental stores, boutiques and apparel makers, who tend to get a boost when the fashion-conscious splurge on clothes for office holiday parties and New Year's festivities," he added.

He further said the USP is wearability. "Apart from fashion, we constitute price ...we don't feel that if you have a designer cloth and a designer label, you need to get really expensive," he said.

Even as financial markets all over the world battle a severe crash, the fashion fraternity of India is advocating affordable clothes, visitors at the designer duo's show were excited over their CUE and H2O collections.

The collection was an experiment with sheeted and sequined urban as well as chic evening wear in metallic colours along with black, cinnamon and beige drafted in fabrics like sand washed satin, polypropylene printed linins, see through georgettes and brushed woollens.

Chivas Fashion Tour 2008 will culminate with a grand finale, to be held in Dubai on November 22.

American rapper Kanye West was arrested after he ended up in a brawl with a photographer outside a nightclub in Newcastle on November 14.

According to Britain's Evening Chronicle, the 31-year-old rapper was arrested on the suspicion of assault but was later released.

"We can confirm that a 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault following an incident at a Newcastle city centre club in the early hours of this morning," People quoted a Northumbria Police spokeswoman, as saying.

"He was released without charge and no further action is being taken," she added.

Earlier in the night West had performed at the city's Metro Arena as part of his Glow in the Dark tour.

The rapper was also arrested for vandalism in September at the Los Angeles airport after allegedly damaging a photographer's camera. — ANI, PTI