It has been customary. We all have done it. In fact, it was so important to mug up those ten sentences essayed on 'my pet dog' to get through the elementary education. For many of us, that was the sole excuse to bring one home. Then another inspiration came years later from the Vodafone ad. People who never kept a pet felt tempted to have one. But, if you aren't influenced by the two experiences, here comes jumbo motivation. There are people in city who love dogs so much so that one is not enough. They treat these adorable pets as friends, companions and even their children.

For Usha R Sharma, a bureaucrat, her 12 dogs are an integral part of the family. "I love, pamper, spoil and even scold them. Being a mother to them, it's natural for me to do it all," says she. Her fondness for dogs was understood as she shared with us her association with them since childhood. "I had two dogs at that time. The only difference is between the roles I have played. Then, I treated them as my siblings, now, they are like my babies." She could never part ways with the puppies and so the family now includes one Labrador, two Pomes, two Pugs and seven Chinese Pekingese. Taking out time from the busy job schedule is indeed tough, but the lady has learnt how to manage. "They give me unconditional love, an incentive enough to take out time for them. Also, my entire family takes care of them the same way." Ask her how she manages to distinguish between the Chinese Pekingese, as they all look the same and she answers, "Just like a mother is able to do between her twins."

Aarti Verma's number of pets might be far less but that doesn't mean she compromises on the way she takes care of them. A homemaker, a major part of her day goes in taking care of her four dogs. "I am quite a strict mother and so even decide on their diet, which has to be healthy. I make sure they do not eat less or more than required, so that they stay fit." And that's not all. She ensures that their beds, blankets, pullovers… are in proper place and well stacked. To add to the joy she enjoys dressing them up top. "I love to accessorise them stylishly. My daughter and I put a lot of ribbons and clips matching with their pullovers on their fur and believe me, it's fun doing it." And what about the fight for attention? "There are times when unintentionally I end up pampering one dog more than the others. Just like kids, they too fight then which is sorted out by paying attention to others".

Pauli Ashok doesn't mind calling her four dogs spoilt brats and enjoys pampering them all the time. "With them around, I don't feel the need to have anybody else," says she. But that isn't the only reason, she loves her dogs, "I have had dogs as pets all my life now. When they pass away, they leave me heart broken but that's also a part of life. The fact they have a very short span of life is always there in my mind and so I love and pamper them as much as I can." And what she enjoys the most is taking care of them. She feels that keeping pets is a huge responsibility. "One shouldn't treat them just as a source of entertainment. Treat them as a family and they'll reciprocate."

ashima@tribunemail.com

Looks like we have a tie here, people. And you don't have to be a rocket scientist to guess who are the three people in the race for the number slot in Bollywood. Did you say Saifu. Oh no. This chota nawab has miles to go before he steps in the 'race' and Junior Bachchan, well, is so content with the lady in his life that he doesn't need anything more. A Delhi 6 once a while maybe. So, this leaves us with Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan, Mr. Six packs and the Chandni Chowk ka munda, Akshay Kumar. And now what the statistics have to say, Aamir's Ghajini has already done 200 crore business, Shahrukh's Rab Ney Bana Di Jodi is pretty okay and after Singh is Kinng, Akshay has hit the screen with Chandni Chowk To China, which is generating mixed reactions. It's not only Bollywood, but movie buffs too are confused, as to who will wear the crown of Bollywood.

"The versatile Kumar is indeed the Bollywood's hottest and the most sought after actor," says Anju Sharma, who works with a city-based bank. "Akshay has delivered successive hits, Namastey London, Heyy Babyy, Bhool Bhulaiya, Singh is Kinng, and now its Chandni Chowk To China. He definitely deserves that crown." Anju feels that Shahrukh is a brand, which sells with or without a storyline. "Akshay has worked his way to the top. And the hits every year are indicative of the fact that he is unchallenged as an actor."

Take it from yet another Akshay fan, who strongly feels that Akki is 'the Kinng' of Bollywood, "There are no two ways about this. Akki is the King, and why are we even whipping up a debate. I feel this is Akshay's time and deserves accolades from all quarters." But who said the race to the top is an easy one. There are others in the field, who are equally good. The super success of Aamir Khan's Ghajini says it all. Himanshu Sharma, contractor and movie buff, offers that hits don't signify anything. "An actor is recognised by the kind of stuff delivered, which is possible if a movie has some substance. Ghajini besides being a hit is also a substantial movie. And Aamir definitely deserves the number one slot."

Hey, we haven't heard someone shout King Khan or for that matter where is the controversial king, Salman Khan, John Abraham, are you there? Hrithik 'Akbar' Roshan, any luck. Harman Baweja, now who is this kid?

jasmine@tribunemail.com

To all ye dough-kneading Indian women, who go through the grind day after day, this one's a real tribute to your kitchen prowess. For, in your daily chopping, dicing and slicing manoeuvres, is hidden a secret Kung Fu move that can make bloodiest of the villains bite dust. Surprised? But what if it comes straight from the action horse's mouth? Well, then it's hard to disregard. However, the respect vapourises within the first ten minutes of the show (Read Chandni Chowk to China).

Nikhil Advani's third outing as a director isn't the kind of Bollywood debut Hollywood giant Warner Brothers was hoping for. CCTC is an over budget mess, where genre mixing goes horribly wrong. So, we have a typical Manmohan Desai lost-and-found formula of 70s tagged with a revenge theme that is airlifted to Chinese setting, where Kung Fu comedies are traditional box-office scorchers.

Sidhu (Akshay Kumar) is a lowly potato peeler at a back street stall in Chandni Chowk who dreams of making it big, albeit sans labour. This he does when he is not flying all over Delhi's skyline after getting his rear stamped with the boot size of his wise-head Dada (Mithun Chakravarthy), who wants him to realise his true potential.

Finally, Sidhu's moment arrives when he is mistaken as a reincarnation of a legendary Chinese warrior Lui Shang and is whisked away to Shanghai to save a hamlet from the evil clutches of a tyrant Hojo (Gordon Liu), who likes to decapitate people with his hat. Accompanying Sidhu, as his translator, is conman Chopstick (Ranvir Shorey). On the way, the duo encounters Sakhi (Deepika Padukone), a saleswoman who has been separated from her father (Roger Yuan) and butt smashing twin sister Suzie aka Meow Meow who's in cahoots with Hojo.

Soon, Sidhu comes face to face with Hojo who mercilessly slays Dada and humiliates the simpleton in full public view. Now, our hero must avenge the killing of his loved one.

It's the predictable and muddled script that sinks CCTC. The writing by Sridhar Raghvan and Rajat Arora is lifeless. Advani, who showed potential with Kal Ho Na Ho and Salaam-e-Ishq, fails miserably to connect to the audience. Banal performances from the cast only compound his woes. Akki disappoints, especially after his splendid goofy act in Singh is Kinng. Padukone looks lost. Also, the chemistry between the lead pair is visibly absent. Shorey remains a sidekick. The only praiseworthy act comes from Roger Yuan and Mithun. The music fails to score.

mona@tribunemail.com 

Queen of pop Madonna still manages to look half her age even at 50, and it is all thanks to the rigorous diet and exercise regime her personal trainer Tracy Anderson has put her on. Madge follows a gruelling two-hour workout six days a week, and Anderson, 33, remains at her side every moment of it.

The trainer had been helping the singer maintain her health even when she was divorcing her hubby Guy Ritchie.

"There are days when she doesn't feel good and days when she's having a hard time, but Madonna still works out for two hours whatever," said Anderson.

She is consistent and she doesn't ever make excuses. Nothing has changed since the divorce.

"Madonna will never look her age. She doesn't even look half her age - she looks 19.

"I don't have to scream at her because she's so motivated. She organizes her time so she can train - she makes an appointment to do it and she keeps it, but two hours is the most she ever exercises in a day," she stated.

Madonna was recently described as "half-starved" but Anderson claims that she eats well and even allows herself the occasional treat, which is sugar and gluten-free.

"All my clients eat. Madonna has a very healthy appetite. She doesn't eat processed food, she's very conscious of the quality of the things she eats but she has treats - she loves cupcakes," she said.

"She will never get fat. Why would she let it go? She relaxes but she's smart, she knows that if she stops exercising she will have loose skin tone. Why should we criticize someone who works hard, is consistent and gets results because they're smart with their time?" she added. — ANI

After two failed marriages and a string of broken romances, Hollywood actress Drew Barrymore has finally come to terms with being unlucky in love.

Her most recent relationship, a 10-month romance with 30-year-old actor Justin Long, ended last summer and while he fell into the arms of actress Kirsten Dunst, Barrymore is still unattached. "I've been single for months now and my priorities have changed so much. I've turned my attention towards my friends and the causes I believe in. It's been about learning who I am, not through a man but for myself. I'm happy with my priorities now," she said.

Her two marriages - to Welsh-born bar owner Jeremy Thomas in March 1994 and comedian Tom Green in July 2001 did not last long, "I have never really understood how I should feel or behave in a relationship. I didn't have the kind of childhood or family life that would have given me any perspective on what a happy home or relationship would feel like. So I haven't had as much success in my relationships as I would have liked," revealed the actress. — IANS

Canadian/American actor Keanu Reeves is all set to star in the big screen adaptation of the Japanese anime TV series Cowboy Bebop. The sci-fi movie is a production of 20th Century Fox, and Reeves will be playing the role of Spike Spiegel, an adventurous bounty hunter traveling through space in 2071, reports Variety magazine.

Peter Craig has been tapped to write the screenplay, and Sunrise Inc., which produces the anime series, will be closely involved with the development of the English-language project.

Sunrise's Kenji Uchida and Shinichiro Watanabe will serve as associate producers alongside series writer Keiko Nobumoto.

Series producer Masahiko Minami will serve as a production consultant. — ANI

Hollywood superstar Will Smith has hinted that he is thinking of making a Bollywood-like film with director Danny Boyle, whose credentials include recent hit Slumdog Millionaire. While talking to reporters at the premiere of his new thriller Seven Pounds in Leicester Square, the actor said that he had been "looking at a few things" with the British director. Boyle's film Slumdog recently won four Golden Globe awards.

The I Am Legend star has confirmed his interest in a film with Boyle soon after he said he was interested in making a Bollywood movie.

Smith, one of the most bankable actors in the world had even visited the filmmaker twice while he was filming Slumdog in Mumbai last year.

"I am looking at a few things, so hopefully we will make something happen," The Telegraph quoted Smith, 40, as saying.

He added: "I spoke to Danny a couple of weeks ago, so I suppose we will have to see if anything comes out of it." — ANI 

Umpteen reality shows. Out of which almost half of them are based on dance and an equivalent number on singing. And now, we hear of mimicry reality shows. How real is the television getting. Well, this is yet again a debatable issue. But something that is straight and simple is the fact that at least some reality show winner’s are putting their talent to use. So much so, they plan to spread it amongst the masses. Here they are Tahira Bhasin and Jashanpreet Singh Kohli, first runners up of the dance reality show Aaja Mahi Vey. Now the two plan to open a dance academy for those who want to learn something about Bollywood dancing. This certainly is real and wise. What say? But before that take it from Jashan who is taken by surprise in this new world!

“Life has changed thoroughly,” beams Jashan and Tahira. “People recognise us, they even approach us for an autograph. And most end up asking, when will you two get married.” As for Tahira, “People recognise Jashan more than me. He looks the same off screen and in screen, while I used to be covered under heavy makeup,” she laughs.

Now that everyone’s asking, we might as well ask the same-when are Tahira and Jashan tying the knot? “Hey, we are kids, undergraduates,” smiles Jashan. “And, we haven’t reached the marriageable age yet.” Besides, there are lots that the two foot-tappers plan to do. And the main thing on their agenda is to open dancing school in the city, which they plan to start very soon. “Probably this month,” tells Jashan. “We are just looking out for a proper space to do so and other logistics. The school will essentially cater to Bollywood kind of dancing.” Gung ho over Bollywood? “Absolutely,” puts in Tahira. “Filmy dancing comes naturally to all. I plan to teach people some real kind of Bollywood stuff.” Adds Jashan, “We learnt some lessons from Saroj Khan, and now we wish to teach them to others as well. “ As per the two winners, Chandigarh has a lot of bhangra and salsa classes but their isn’t any Bollywood dance happening. This is what the two exactly plan to do.

What next? Reveals Jashan and Tahira, “We have got offers from various channels, but we want to complete our graduation before we do anything else. After this, we would probably move to Mumbai.” Till then.... let’s dance people.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Urdu poet Allama Iqbal’s couplet Gurbat (Overseas) mein hon agar hum, rehta hai dil vatan main/ Samjho humain vaheen tum, dil ho jahan hamara, veritably echos the sentiments of those organisers and artists based in UK associated with the theatrical production of Guru Manyo Granth.

Guru Nanak Sikh Schools UK foundation and Theatre academy of UK are in the city to show and share their longing to relive their rich cultural legacy as also how are they still attached to their roots. While the theatrical presentation will be made on January 19 at the Tagore theatre, we interacted with those moving spirits behind the play at the Chandigarh Press Club on Saturday.

Leading the cultural brigade, councillor Santokh Singh Chhokar, a solicitor of the Supreme court of England and Wales hailing it the prestigious joint British production , disclosed that the play was evolved to mark the 300 glorious years of Shri Guru Granth Sahib. The spirituality oriented play is classic theatre spectacle created by Punjabi Theatre academy of UK with student artists from Guru Nanak Sikh schools, under the direction of acclaimed London based thespian T.P. Sindra assisted by Gaurav Sharma.

Says T.P. Sindra, “We are into the twentieth show of the play or call it a theatrical illustration of the ethical values and ideals, as enshrined in the holy Guru Granth Sahib and propagated by our Sikh gurus and saints. The play structured in the 1700 AD takes on a powerful and eventful historic journey from Talawandi Sabo to Sahib celebrating the 300 centenary of the holy Granth. Acclaimed playwright thespian and filmmaker Sindra delved on the necessary cultivation of moral education to the young generation especially in UK.

Embellishing the production with English script for European audience, UK based Manjit Johal claims that it is making a substantial impact on the psyche of young NRI students. An assistant director in social education Manjit Johal is associated with education of prisoners and young offenders. There were many challenges in working with UK actors knowing little about Sikh history,” she adds.

While the part of cast of play is to arrive by evening actor Kamaljit Camilla Kaur Sidhu, studying media and PR at Westminster says she enjoyed her role wherein she portrays a pure Punjabi and European culture. 

Girijaa Shankar, actor and director has completed shoot of a Punjabi Music Album Dostan Di Dosti in Hollywood (Los Angeles) with music composed by Tejwant Kitoo and lyrics composed by Amar Akbarpuri. According to Girijaa Shankar and singer Nirmal Sandhu this Punjabi album, has the potential of starting a new era in Punjabi music, which is why is why I agreed to direct, visualise and shoot the album. Hollywood actors Betsy, Amarapali , Ashish Wahi, Paul Harika and Aileen play major roles in Dostan Di Dosti album .

Adds Girjaa Shankar, “All the eight songs are sung beautifully by Nirmal Sandhu, who is a well known aeronautical engineer in American airline. The album Dostan Di Dosti is a beautiful mix of ghazal and song, which are again written and blended by Amar Akabarpuri who lives in Toronto. The theme of all the songs and ghazals is separation and the music is like fresh air and soothing away from the today’s loudness and vulgarity.

Girjaa Shankar also feels that in spite of not knowing the language by all American cast and crew, they enjoyed the sweet melody of the songs. The album is extensively shot in Los Angeles , Hollywood, Beverly Hills , Palos Verdes and other beautiful Locations of California.

Album is ready for release for Release in March 2009. 

“Aisa Koi funkar –e- mukkamal nahin aya, Naghmon ka barsta badal nahin aya, Sangeet ke toh bahut aye hai, Lekin duniyan mein doosra Saigal nahin aya”.

The couplet by Bollywood music director Naushad Ali is indeed a befitting tribute to the golden voice of legendary maestro, K.L. Saigal whose voice still provides nourishment to the soul. The Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademy in association with the Environment Society of India pays homage to the great music wizard in their annual programme Yaadon Ki Kasak on his death anniversary. As per akademy chairperson Kamal Tewari, their third annual musical programme Yaadon Ki Kasak is dedicated to the senior citizens and all the performing artists too will be senior citizens, who will sing only the songs immortalised by K.L. Saigal. But there is absolutely no age bar for music loving audience for the concert to be held at Randhawa auditorium (Punjab kala Bhavan) on January 18 at 6 PM. 

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

ARIES: You draw five of pentacles hopefully your wishes come true this week. Your subconscious has been talking to you but you are confused. On the other hand, there is this part of you that is relying on what others say to give you a feeling of assurance. If you stay in your little boat and keep your thoughts to yourself you will get to see wonders. Tip of the week: Boost your confidence with positive thinking. Lucky colour: White.

TAURUS: You draw Lovers so don’t hold back, let others know exactly what you think and how you feel about them. This week transit combination is also not good for travel, new partnership alliance. Those on the job front may change their positions. Tip: Do not expect too much from others. Lucky colour: Wine red.

GEMINI: Your card The Hermit says this is an important week for you. If you have been unemployed for some time search the classified section of the newspaper. During midweek it is important not to judge people according to their past actions. Tip: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Yellow.

CANCER: The Knight of Wands says don’t trust others when it comes to financial matters. You are best to spend time with new friends. You will meet romantic possibilities if you go out. Your ability to be mysterious will make you difficult to resist. Tip: Learn to rely on your mind. Lucky colour: Golden.

LEO: Your card The Moon reveals step in time to the music. Someone else will call the tune as the week begins. You’ll have to string along for a bit. Romance is favoured, as long as you’re clear about the boundaries. Don’t be argumentative. Tip: Look forward to what’s coming! It would be unwise to tip the scales. Lucky colour: White.

VIRGO: Ace of Pentacles says be cautious when dealing with creative types. Venus in your social sector makes this a light-hearted, fun time for you. Don’t let a depressed friend or sometime lover drag you down. Be compassionate but keep a few boundaries. Tip: At work, a setback would be followed by a rapid advance. Lucky colour: Silver

LIBRA: The Princes of Cups shows that you will be able to impress your seniors with some original and practical suggestions. You may discuss plans for housewarming when you move to your new flat. Try not to start anything new without finishing what is already pending. Lucky colour: Cream. Tip: Balance your energy before making important decisions.

SCORPIO: Your card Ace of Swords shows you may seek new employment or a promotion. You feel ready and fit for a better situation. A major key in helping you succeed in making a transition is improving your appearance.You may attempt a major improvement in your career and overall life style. Lucky Colour: Midnight blue. Tip: Don’t reveal your plan of action to anyone.

SAGITTARIUS: The Knight of Discs reveals you should be extremely careful what and whom you trust. Mutually held fund must not be disturbed without your consent. Lady luck favours you. Excellent week for those involved in business ventures. Students may plan to travel abroad for specialised training. Lucky colour: Scarlet. Tip: You should pursue positively.

CAPRICORN: The Five of wands advice this week you will have to work extra to achieve your goals. Unexpected expenses will put tension on your mind, but do not worry, as financial gains will supplement your resources soon. Spouse will be caring and provide you with love and affection. Lucky colour: Pink Tip: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action.

AQUARIUS: The Emperor card reveals place your aims higher on your priority list. Prepare yourself for a mental battle. It’s easier to plan your strategy when you’re not under so much pressure. You may not be an expert, but that shouldn’t stop you from finding solutions. Lucky colour: Deep crimson. Tip: Seek out well researched information before making any moves.

PISCES: The Wheel of Fortune says this week you might have to deal with unreliable individuals who will promise a lot but deliver less. Your style and unique ways of doing things will interest people who are watching you. Talk and listen to people about their project to gather valuable information. Put in more efforts in improving your style of working to get immediate rewards. Lucky colour: White. Tip: Don’t waste an opportunity by not exploiting a contact.