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Punjabi Punch From chocolate hero to serious actor. Jimmy Shergill, in town for a shooting, talks about his transition and straddling the different worlds of Punjabi and Hindi cinema With Punjab and everything Punjabi being the flavour of the season in B-town, Punjabi cinema has its own dishes to offer. And adding his own tinge is the blue-eyed boy of Punjabi cinema and the lover boy of Hindi cinema, Jimmy Shergill. The man with the chocolate looks and good boy image has the keenest eye for meaty roles in the industry. He has carved a niche for himself with a versatility of roles, playing strong characters in movies like Haasil, Yahaan, Munna Bhai MBBS and the recent, critically acclaimed A Wednesday. He carried his success to the Punjabi cinema with movies like Yaraan Naal Baharan and Mannat. And he is ready for more with the latest being, Munde UK De. In town for the shoot, he shares notes on his B-town success and the tag of becoming the heartthrob of Punjabi cinema. "It always feels great to be in Punjab," says this Punjabi munda. The movie is his second with known Punjabi film maker, Manmohan Singh after Yaraan Naal Baharan. "It's a lighthearted film set against the background of the hip-hop GenY based in the UK and contrasting culture of Punjab," he says. Jimmy plays the character of a UK-based guy who comes to Punjab and faces the cultural shock of two different worlds. "It's a sweet film, an out-and-out comedy with a subtle message," he says. The film has Neeru Bajwa and noted singer Amrinder Gill along with him. Given the vast repertoire he has in Hindi films, ask him about his experimentation with punjabi movies and he replies, "I have always tried to do something different with each film. In Yaraan Naal Baharan, my character of a young punjabi guy, had to deal with the generation gap faced by youth today, while Mannat was based on a true story. My upcoming film Tera Mera Ki Rishta is a uniqueelove story where you feel that this cannot happen until it actually happens. So there is always room for innovation with me." But while Bollywood is gung-ho about turbaned heroes, Punjabi films are still without one, "One should not make a big deal about it. The trend is not new, just that it has caught Bollywood's fancy recently," he says. But it's not just movies that command his passion. Just like any hardcore Punjabi his blood boils for the nation. We did see him play out his passion in Yahaan, Agnipankh and A Wednesday. "I have always been inclined to respect our armed forces. They inspire me with their selfless service to the nation," says the actor, who if he hadn't come to tinsel town would have been in the Armed forces. Describing recent attacks on Mumbai as sad, he says, "I was in America when 9/11 happened. And now after watching Mumbai terror, I feel that no place is safe, whether you are traveling or at home. It was disheartening to see people dying. I mean I got a SMS from a fan who said that we need cops like you (after his character in A Wednesday) to save the country." Changing gear on the professional front again, his hands are full with variety. "My upcoming movies include Johnny Mastana with Shoojit Sarkar, Flat, my first supernatural film and comedy Bachelor Party," he signs off. Director’s cut After creating a string of hits like Jee Ayan Nu, Asan Nu Maan Watana Te, Yaaran Naal Baharan, Dil Apna Punjabi, Mitti Wajan Mardi
and Mera Pind- My home, Manamohan Singh, the renaissance man of Punjabi cinema is back with another offering. But this time with a difference,
Munde UK De- an out an out comedy that is zara hatke from his signature style of issue-based cinema. "This topic was close to my heart as I always wanted to bring forth the differences in the culture, style of speaking and ideologies of the Punjabis here and those staying abroad," he says. He promises it to be a full entertainer and interesting combination of
desi and pardesi fun. He feels there should be more experimentation done in the Punjabi cinema as now the challenge is from Bollywood. "Singh is becoming the King in bollywood and so our competition is more difficult," he says.
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Taal after terror Fresh from the shock of the Mumbai blasts, kathak dancer and actor Nandita Das landed in her hometown on Saturday to keep her show going The strains of a soulful flute recital by Rupak Kulkarni, a dazzling Kathak performance by cine actor maestro, Nandita Puri and a percussion presentation of tabla solo and accompaniment by Pandit Kali Nath Mishra were in store for the art lovers of the tricity on Saturday. The event was brought to the tricity by Triveni Sangeet Sabha in association with the Sangeet Natak Akademy, New Delhi. The lead artiste to enrapture the city crowd was the acclaimed flautist, Rupak Kulkarni, the foremost disciple of Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia-a living legend. Roopak had learnt the rudiments of music from his father, the Late Pandit Malhar Kulkarni but he mastered the dhrupad khayal and tanatrkai ang, melodious alaap, tatkar and lyakari from his guru Hariprasad Chaurasia. Blending the old music traditions with modernity, Rupak has emerged as an expert in fusion music as well. Globe trotting Roopak had registered his presence in film music too. Having recovered from the shock of terrorist attacks in Mumbai, the acclaimed Kathak dancer and actor Nandita Puri, narrated how the happenings of November 26 had caught them unawares while she was preparing to leave for the concert in tricity, along with her actor husband Dan Dhanoa. "Somehow my image of playing a good mother has been very popular, which at times bores me but the producers rely on me alone. I am convincing my actor husband to go in for a good Punjabi movie let us hope for the best." Both Roopak and Nandita salute the brilliance of Pandit Kali Nath Mishra, the noted tabla wizard of Benaras gharana. "It isour proud privilege to perform with him," says Nandita. The concert will be at the Randhawa auditorium on November 30 at 6.30 PM, said Premila Puri the convener.
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Love triangle with a twist
Shy scientist Siddharth (Sharman Joshi), flanked by his parents (Boman Irani and Shabana Azmi) lands in magnificent Mauritius for the wedding of his elder brother Harsh (Sanjay Suri), a sassy stock-broker, who has decided to marry his girlfriend of five years, Aaliah (Chitrangada Singh). Since Harsh is a busy man, onus falls on Aaliah to show them around. However, Shabana is skeptical about her bahu, so the latter ends up spending most of the time with Siddharth, accompanying him to shopping, parasailing and partying. Soon, the duo realises they have the hots for each other. They initially resist the temptation but gradually succumb to it. Now, comes the real challenge: Confession. But the couple somehow manages to do it. And the moment it happens, all hell breaks loose. Sorry Bhai's inherent strength is its freshness. The quirky twist to the conventional triangle, lovingly-crafted by Onir (remember My Brother Nikhil and Bas Ek Pal), makes it an interesting watch. Also, the gentle treatment of the subject lends it great credibility. Onir tries to be realistic and so do his characters, which are properly chalked out. The movie with its impressive cast scores highly when it comes to performances. Chitrangada and Sharman team up well and their passion sets the screen on fire. While the former looks extremely sensuous, carrying her role with `E9lan, the boy looks absolutely convincing in his geeky act. Sanjay Suri shows flamboyance in his brief role. Shabana as an eccentric mother is stupendous. Watch her sneer and jeer subtly at her would be daughter-in-law. The growing love-hate relationship between the two ladies is another high-point of the flick. The senior actress also shares an amazing chemistry with Boman and their complete comfort with each other just seems to be an extension of Honeymoon Travels. Witty dialogues and humable songs add to the feel-good factor. Onir's bias for beaches continues as Sachin Kumar's superb camera-work makes the island nation look strikingly beautiful. Overall, Sorry surely makes us smile. mona@tribunemail.com Beagle Boy
Born in a middle-class Delhi family, Lucky (Abhay Deol) grows up being a deprived lot, as his father (Paresh Rawal), who has brought another woman home, is not interested in supporting the family. However, apna Lucky doesn't crib much and decides to set things right on his own. But it's not easy to earn wealth. So what do you do? Simple, steal it. Thus begins Lucky's tryst with the wrong side of the law. He begins with stealing a motorbike to take his girl on a jaunt. Soon, he's taking everyone for a ride. Lucky has no guns or knives. He relies heavily on his charm and gift of gab to con all and sundry, including a rich socialite to a crime reporter. He booty comprises Mercs, TVs, music systems, furniture, cutlery, teddy bears and even pets. Assisting him in his misdemeanors is childhood friend Bangali (Manu Rishi) and a music bandleader Goga Bhai . Don't be surprised, he is in a triple avatar(and one wonders why). Along the way our anti-hero falls for a college girl Sonal (Neetu Chandra), who and her family have no qualms about the cheeky business of her boyfriend. Soon, Lucky decides to invest in the dream project of a cunning vet (Paresh Rawal again) and his wily wife (Archana Puran Singh). One thing is for sure Dibakar Banerjee (Khosla Ka Ghosla) knows Delhi well. That's why he beautifully captures the minutest details of every nook and cranny of the Capital. He presents characters straight out of localities like Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar and posh South Delhi which essentially sets the tone of the movie. The characters are carefully etched out. The humour is situational. The low of the movie remains to be the storyline, hardly much happens on that front. As far performances are concerned, the movie is out-an-out Abhay affair. The junior-most Deol has earlier too shown his penchant for unorthodox roles. But as Lucky, he is simply superb, carrying his guy-next-door image hiding a foxy mind with remarkable ease. Manjot Singh as young lucky is also praiseworthy. Paresh Rawal delivers fine performance. Kartik Vijay's camera captures grungy side of Delhi effectively. Overall, Lucky may not be as smooth as Khosla Ka Khosla, but it entertains.
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"Firstly, I've never done intimate scenes like these on screen. I'm a family man with a wife and son. And to watch the scenes with my parents at the premiere gave me the shivers. What would they think? On top of it all, it was our marriage anniversary. What a gift for my wife," Zayed sighed. Fortunately, Zayed's wife Malaika was quite 'cool' about the intimate scene with Amrit Maghera. According to a source, it took all of Ghai's persuasive powers to convince Zayed that a lip-to-lip was very much the order of the day. "Zayed protested hard. He argued he's a married man and his wife would certainly not like seeing him in a compromising position with his co-star even if it was for the screen. But Ghai was adamant. He has never had a kissing scene in his cinema before. He wanted to start good and proper. He insisted Zayed do the needful," added the source. When further probed about the kiss, Zayed said: "My lips are sealed, and not just for the kissing - let me tell you very explicitly. But, yes, some of the scenes did have me worried. This was my first screen kiss. And I do have a very laadla beta image among the audience. What would the mothers in the audience think? I wondered! I hadn't even told my wife about the kissing in Yuvvraaj." — IANS
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Good morning… television Neha Walia
Ahhh`85this means no more torturous re-runs that were making us believe we were suffering from amnesia. But to sum it in one line we can say, they did provide some brush up lessons for those who joined in late. Now that life is back to normal again`85we will again witness the umpteenth prem kahanis, ek hero, ek heroine and the twists in the tale, the garish and schemeing buas, chachis and bhabhis back to their usual plotting and new sautans emerging out of the shadows of hiatus. And of all, those saas-bahu cult of women will be at their busiest again, arre bhai thinking about who marries who and what will happen next to their bechari bahus and betis in the soaps. And there will be umpteen clones of our hit bollywood movies dominating the boob tube again, not to forget the new entrants queued up to shake things up a little after the long vacation. But while we missed all the dramebaazi on TV, this break from reel gave us enough time for real life dramebaazi. So, while the TV saas was holidaying, the real life mothers-in-law had the golden opportunity to scrutinise their own bahus and while the excitement was missing on TV, we were busy with our own kahani ghar ghar ki. And come to think of it, this disappearing act might have been responsible for more conflicts in the family, given the fact that they had more quality time to spend with each other. It meant knowing what's happening in each other's life, asking questions that usually one didn't get time to ask. Well, that sure makes for a thrilling reality show. Anybody listening? And now we can go back to our ways and turn into couch potatoes again. And watch those endless tales of plotting, scheming, loud make-up and innovative camera angles. It's a happy ending after all! lifestyle@tribunemail.com
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Singing success
Talk of versatility and
the newest star in the Punjabi filmdom is ready to prove his point.
Amrinder gill, the Punjabi singing sensation is ready to make his
cinematic debut with Munde UK De, a film by noted filmaker
Manmohan Singh. The movie features Jimmy Shergill and Neeru Bajwa in the
lead roles. "I play a young Punjabi from a village whose
interaction with these two guys from UK, played by Jimmy and Gurpreet
Ghuggi brings out some of the hilarious situations in the movie,"
says Gill. He has also sung and composed two songs for
the movie. As the on-screen chemistry between Jimmy Shergill and
Amrinder forms the high point in the movie, how was his experience
working with some of the biggest names in the industry? "Vadiya.
I feel honoured to work with such experienced people. Everybody is
nice and Jimmy and I have become good friends. Since it’s my first
movie, it’s a learning experience for me," says Amrinder. With
movie offers coming aplenty, it was Manji’s insistance and his vision,
that made the young singer take up acting. "Manji’s offer is like
responsibility for me. I hope it will be a great start, as the movie
promises to be a complete entertainer," he says. But the singer
left no stone unturned to improvise his talent before camera. "I
had done music videos and theatre before, so facing the camera was not a
big deal. But yeah, I did join Kishore Namit Kapoor’s acting classes
to polish myself," he says. Now with so many Punjabi artists
coming to limelight and getting their share of glamour, Amrinder feels
it is a golden period of Punjabi cinema, "We have mainstream
bollywood movies like Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Singh Is Kinng and
many others that are cashing on the Punjabi culture. Even music is not
complete without Punjabi beats. There is a lot of growth marked for
Punjabi artists in future," says Gill. So after acting, is it
playback singing in Bollywood? "Well, I want to take up one thing
at a time. Rigt now I am busy with Munde UK De, after which I’ll
complete the work on my new album. But sure, playback singing in
bollywood can’t be ruled out," he says. The young and
charismatic singer believes in taking up challenges and growth comes
along. Sure, we couldn’t agree more. lifestyle@tribunemail.com
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The exhibition of handicrafts and handlooms from Himachal Pradesh promises a different shopping experience
It might not be designer,
swank or flashy. But the exhibition by H.P State Handicrafts and
Handloom Corporation Ltd sure is ethnic, authentic and understated. Be
it the traditional Himachali head wear or the embroidery motifs,
everything reminds one of the handpicked traditional rural experiences.
Apart from the suits, shawls, carpets, the exhibition also includes
little knick-knacks like Lahauli gloves, knitted socks, grass pullan, a
kind of foot wear made from dried grass—can be used in kitchens and
praying rooms. "All the embroidery on suits is hand made and they
range from Rs 360 to Rs 800," said Ravi Yadav, the sales personnel.
Then there are Kullu jackets, Nehru jackets, pashmina shawls all
handmade by indigenous craftsmen and rural artisans. Quite a contrast to
the mechanised and wholesale factory production. D.D. Sharma, Marketing
manager, says, "It takes around 45 days to weave each pashmina
shawl." The lovers of art can look forward to Kangra paintings or
the stone pieces sculpted to perfection in the form various gods and
goddesses. Each one is hand made and takes at least a month and a half.
Those looking for utility can buy these pictures on chess sets, paper
weights, paper envelopes, pencil stands and the like. For whom, the
enticements of a land lie in the palate, can relish honey, spices, and
preservatives. That’s not it. There are eye-catching ornaments that
transport you straight to the mystery of hills and magic of antiquity.
— TNS On till December 12 at Panchayat Bhawan-18
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The quiet carpenter Sreedhara Bhasin I have had the misfortune of interacting with a lot of carpenter, painter, varnishwalla, cushionwalla types lately. I have found some recurring traits in many of them. Although they hail from different states of India and none speak any Punjabi; most speak Hindi with great flourish (those who are from the heartland) – they all display uncannily similar and greatly exasperating virtues. At the end of it, I am convinced that to retain one’s sanity one needs a henchman to carry out orders and gag them if necessary. One man that I regretted dealing with very much spoke with great flair - almost in a Boman Irani style. He was to polish some furniture. He spoke in chaste and accented Hindi – interjecting his incessant banter with patronising remarks and jibes that drove me insane. He offered advice when not asked for and furnished his wisdom even when I clenched my teeth in an effort to restrain myself from screaming at him. He also asked if I were a principal of a school. I ran into a curtain maker who thought God has sent him down in order to speak his fullest. Anytime I called his mobile I held it far from my ears and flinched – such was the velocity, density and loudness of his speech. He never gave me a chance to express what I wanted and anytime I opened my mouth – took it as a signal to embark on another topic. In the end, I caved in and went with his flow – literally. Some are highly insolent. A cushion-maker when told to do a good job said –“ Dekho, kam machine se karna hai, hath se nahi, mujhe batake koi faida nahi hai.” Well, if that was the case then, even I could have made those, if given a sewing machine! Some seem to have no clue about time. When they say, they will come at a certain time, it means, they will arrive two hours later. When they say a thing will be ready by 2 pm, they mean 2 pm, three days later. When they say, they know how to do something very well; they mean they might have done this as an apprentice many years ago. There is one carpenter however, who stood apart. He spoke less, answered questions gracefully and seemed a truly decent sort. After he had finished his due work, I asked him to come home one day to do a few odd jobs. He was polite and pleasant. I held a brief conversation with him and was impressed by his lack of garrulousness. When he left, I found the cell phone lying on the dresser missing. I could never get the phone back. I am now reevaluating this entire business of judging people by their talk.
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Tarot
Talk ARIES : You draw “ The Fool”. Those of you in business and entrepreneurship would profit from partnerships and business meetings in this week. Some of you may be recognised for certain achievements and this would also, be a positive time for performing religious rites at home. Lucky Colour: Black. Tip of the week: Don’t waste an opportunity even if it is from your past. TAURUS : “The Lovers” card says business and work matters would flourish. In personal relationships, be thoughtful. Spend time with family members since they may be feeling somewhat neglected. Some of you may even get windfalls from unexpected sources. Lucky Colour : Peacock green. Tip: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. GEMINI : You draw “ Ten of Pentacles”. This week family, especially children would need your attention. Social gatherings, travel plans would be ideal for bonding with friends and family. Money matters would smoothen. Lucky Colour : Deep crimson Tip: Focus on professional changes. CANCER : This week “The Wheel of Fortune “ says it would be beneficial if you see others’ perspective as well. Those in love may decide to get married and for singles they may receive proposals. Lucky Colour : Lotus pink. Tip: Avoid criticising or judging others LEO : “Ace Of Swords” reveals the presence of Saturn would help your Sun and motivate you to take on additional duties at work, which would help your career goals. Domestic situation would be relatively smooth. Lucky Colour : Pink Tip: Support friends and family, especially, if they are embarking on a new project. VIRGO : The karmic “Wheel of fortune” says this is a week that would be filled with a lot of activity. Even your mind would be working at a much faster pace. There would be ideas, plans and schemes flowing all over the place. Colleagues may not be too happy about your increased creativity and expressiveness. Lucky colour : Orange Tip: Be practical. LIBRA : Your card “The Hierophant” says, the patience you demonstrated at work, last week would need to be displayed at home this week. At work, your hard work would be appreciated and rewarded. This is also, a good week to work out the nitty-gritty plans for future. Lucky Colour : Deep crimson. Tip: Don’t stress yourself too much. SCORPIO : “Five of Cups” says, it would be nice if you could meet someone you haven’t been in touch with. Take care of your health. You may be caught up in matters relating to law, property, religion or travel. Avoid using your credit card if shopping over the weekend. Lucky Colour : Saffron. Tip: Involve yourself in a new project. SAGITTARIUS : The card “ Strength” gives you the taste of freedom. This week you would be creative and imaginative, so professionally, you would come up with some great ideas. Deal with family members and loved ones with patience and affection, this would only draw you closer. Lucky Colour : Crimson. Tip: Act righteously and do your duties on time. CAPRICORN : “ The Universe” opens up new horizons in career and personal relationship. Love life would be fulfilling and except a few differences of opinion but things would sail smoothly. Unexpected guests would bring happiness but would also keep housewives busy. Use the weekend to indulge in hobbies and relax. Lucky Colour : Green. Tip: Leave things open ended for best results. AQUARIUS : You draw “ Seven of Swords”. This would be a good week to enhance your professional skills through some training or a course. At home, take out some time to talk to your spouse, parents or siblings and really understand their point of view. Health may need some looking after, so watch your diet. Lucky Colour : Silver. Tip: Don’t build into accepting situations you dislike. PISCES : “ The Lovers” card says, in your personal relationships do not let outsiders interfere. Be prudent and discreet in your interactions. Avoid overindulging and undue expenses. Health and fitness would improve, provided you’ve been careful about your diet and exercise. Lucky Colour : Fiery red Tip: You need to take things slowly.
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Delightfully different.
That's how you would describe charming Chitrangada Singh's comeback
vehicle, Sorry Bhai. The love triangle explores a funny, but queer
situation: A man falling for his brother's fiance just a few days before
the wedding.
He steals anything and
everything. A kleptomaniac, Lucky is a cool chor without any moral
pangs. More than a profession, stealing is an obsession for him. And he
pursues it with unflinching devotion.
Zayed Khan locked lips on
screen for the first time in director Subhash Ghai's newly released film Yuvvraaj
and says he was embarrassed to watch the scene with his wife and other
family members.
The serial sunshine is back
on the Indian Television screen, breaking a fortnight long drought of TV
dramas that brought our lives to a standstill. And for those who can't
believe their ears, the striking workers of the television industry have
finally decided to take pity on us and call off their strike. This news
comes as a life saver not only for the beleaguered producers whose money
bags were losing weight each day, but also for the devoted viewers of
these shows, for whom life's meaning was lost sans their everyday drama
dose.
