|
|
|
|
|
United Colours of Basant Bandhan and Bandhini Odhni rangi de lalariya… Daljit's bandhan with his better half is also that of bandhini. For, he owes his enviable collection of tie 'n' dye pagdis to his designer spouse Monica. And his palette of pagdis ranges from maroons, rusts to blues and black. "I tie my turbans in the Patiala style and at any social do, I have people flocking to me with queries about where I get them from," says the honcho with evident pride.
Signature style
Any icons as far as Singhs and style go? "Aha, I think my turbans are more exciting than many others. In fact, they're one thing that really floors the women," he says with confidence. "For formal wear, I team up my turbans with cuff links from Tiffany's and silk ties from Singapore." Talk of Singh is
bling.
|
|
State of the 'Art'
Over to you Gulzaar Chahal, one of producer of Jag Jeondeyan De Mele, who also plays a small yet important role in the movie. We take it from 'change'. "Exactly, this is was the whole idea of getting associated with Harbhajan Mann," tells this ex-cricketer player, who has given up batting for a new innings in productions and acting. "With Jag Jeondeyan.. we wanted to give the audiences something 'new'. Enough of issues, we want to give them something that each one from the audiences can relate to, which is relationship." Now that we have bought the idea of change that he plans to induce, it is obvious to ask how he plans to do it. "Jag Jeondeyan is a movie that is strong from all aspects, right from the script, screenplay, to technical execution, editing. Infact, we laid special emphasis on the postproduction, and this is for the first time that we have used graphics and state of art technology. In addition to this, we roped in the director of photography Jay Vincent who has done more than 150 films in the South, director Baljeet Singh Deo and musicians like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Sandesh Shandilya, Aman Hayer, explains Gulzaar," who is the lead actor for Puneet Isaar's movie.
|
|
As for pretty leading lady Tulip Joshi, this will be change, and a good one. Having worked in Hindi, South Indian and now Punjabi, she is comfortable working as long as its substantial acting. "I like the work under with the vast spectrum, portraying different roles and characters and I would justify my role in this movie as well." Jasmine Singh
|
|
The product includes a wide range of clothing, from tees, polos, sweat shirts, jogging suits, sweaters, to inner wears etc for men, women and children. They claim the products to have been made entirely from organic cotton. Grown without the use of any synthetic pesticides and chemicals, organic cotton cultivation thus leaves no toxic residues. This is the company's fourth store in the region after Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar. — TNS
|
|
|
The Kite Runner 'Smoking is injurious to health' or 'female foeticide is a sin' or 'fight terrorism', numerous diverse issues and so are the mediums to reach out to people. Documentaries, social advertisements, street plays, books, sermons and what not, all have been optimally utilized. But then why do these evils still exist? "May be a little change in approach can help," suggests Devinder Pal Singh. And that would be, "Creating awareness in the society in a lighter and entertaining way. At times, these serious issues are presented in a far more grave manner and that makes people avoid them", adds Devinder who is spreading the same messages through his kites on Basant Panchmi. Some fifty kites put up at his stall at basant utsav being held at leisure valley say the rest. Every kite has a message on it, either painted or pasted. "These kites are not for sale. I have put up an exhibition of them so that everyone who comes here to celebrate the festival notices them and the message". From Aids, eve teasing, corruption to communalism, every topic has been covered. "Kite flying is my hobby and my medium of expressing views." One issue that is very close to his heart is, environment. "People think the little harm they do to the environment like wasting papers or using polythene bags does not matter. But the fact is every little carelessness affects our surroundings and our environment." An employee of Forensic department, he along with his partner, M.M. Dada represented India in Kite flying competition held at the Track Games held in Korea recently. "We won a bronze medal there and hope that will inspire people to take up kite flying as a hobby." But the dying art of kite flying in Chandigarh does bother him too, "It is only in our city that we don't see much of it. If you go into the interiors of Punjab, the tradition is still there.” Yellow fervour
Some 300 students participated in the painting competition held at the Basant Utsav. Colour yellow was the theme of the competition and the students used the colour well. We also had some professional artists and art teachers joining the event. Sharing her experience of participating in the competition, Guneeta Chadha, a lecturer in GCG-11, says, "It is always fun to be amidst students and paint." |
|
MATKA
CHOWK
My gourmand uncle often quipped that we live to eat and not the other way round. I am now reflecting on whether we are for the animals, dogs, to be specific or are the dogs for us. Please – I am no dog hater. Although, I do find it extremely annoying when I step into someone’s home and a huge beast puts its paws on my shoulders and sniffs my eyelashes. And the owner comes beaming proudly and says – “kuch nahi karega.” While growing up in a rambling old fashioned home in Calcutta, we had many pets – even squirrels and white mice that ate apples from our hands. However, the street dogs were never my friends. Our errant Spitz often ran out onto the streets only to be rescued by me valiantly fighting the snarling alley dogs with rolled up newspaper. I harbour the same feelings towards them even now. And Chandigarh is under seize. Ruthless, cloying, mendicant, yellow and mangy dogs prowl the streets now. They stalk one of my most favourite haunts – Sukhna Lake. Some of those dogs are covered with sores and need immediate medical attention. Some have made begging an art form and like the new genre of beggars that seem to also have cropped up in Chandigarh, are downright aggressive and persistent. My residual compassion towards these street dogs diminished greatly in recent times after I saw what one of those had done to the calf of a ten year old and that too when denied a slice of bread the boy was eating while standing in a park. It didn’t help that my mother told me horrific stories about rabies injections being administered to children at a time when the modern serum was not existent. The Sukhna dogs run along the stone platform. They hop on and off and brush past you when you are trying to watch the cormorants. They surround you along with an outsider dog and howl down all your fortitude specially when you have sat down to view the sunrise and think of the universal truth. One particularly stubborn dog ran behind me for a while and then caught hold of my jacket in his teeth and followed me. I was more afraid for my jacket than for my limbs. A jharuwalla close by came to my rescue. The dogs also inhabit the parking lot in front of the Lake Club and run up to you when you embark your vehicle. I feel quite silly dashing into my car when approached by a pack of emaciated and hungry dogs. The situation is not helped by the kind souls who feed the dogs thinking it’s a good deed, in turn, converting them into bold beggars. I recollect reading recent news about a dog squad being formed by the municipal authorities since the dogs have now taken to biting highly placed sarkari officers. That is a beginning that could end very well – especially
for me. |
|
Inside out
mustwatch
What tops the Bollywood beginner's must-have list? Talent, may be, but kismat connection, definitely. In the world where fame feeds on friendship, rapacity overrules righteousness and glory comes at the cost of gentleness, being a selfish, manipulative soul is your ticket to stardom. But is success the only thing we are looking for? Zoya Akhtar tries to answer the question as she dons the director's hat in Luck By Chance. A powerful, poignant tale, LBC is an insider's take on the business of dream selling with all its extended paraphernalia: Superstition, coercion, hypocrisy, bootlicking, exploitation and opportunism. Smitten by the acting bug, Delhi boy Vikram Jai Singh (Farhan Akhtar) moves out of his comfort zone and reaches Mumbai. Ruthlessly ambitious, the smart lad doesn't mind making optimum use of his charm to garner gains. Soon, the struggler meets the starlet (Sona -Konkana Sen) from Kanpur who's waiting to leap into the big league. For the purpose, she is banking on a slimy producer (Aly Khan) who promises her the moon. While friendship between Vikram and Sona is blossoming into a romantic relationship, Romy Rolly (Rishi Kapoor), a paunchy Punjabi producer, is busy with his new big flick with the current heartthrob Zafar Khan (Hrithik Roshan) and debutante Nikki (Isha Sherwani), daughter of a hit heroine of yesteryear Neena (Dimple). Troubles start for Rolly and his team, comprising wife Minty (Juhi Chawla) and director brother Ranjit (Sanjay Kapoor), when Zafar pulls out of the film for a plumper role in another project. Now, the hunt begins for the fresh face and our hero works his way into the Rolly camp by flirting with the mom-and-daughter duo even as his love interest is battling the greatest rejection of her life. Watertight writing is the hallmark of LBC. Zoya, who has also done the screenplay, brilliantly pieces together myriad characters and situations to showcase the showbiz reality. Also, her choice of actors is perfect and makes the characters look very real. So blame Zoya if Rishi Kapoor actually appears loud-mouthed and Nikki, a dumblina. Another highpoint of the film is the subtlety with which it satirises the biggest film industry in the world. It's a spoof but nowhere the director has gone overboard. Even the climax is open-ended and abrupt with audience left on their own to assimilate the idea. The dialogues by Javed Akhtar are witty. Farhan delivers yet another knock out performance after Rock On. Watch the ease with which he gets into the skin of his character. Konkana sparkles as Sona. She is a natural and Zoya uses her to the fullest. But it's the seniors, Rishi and Dimple, who spring up a surprise. The duo is immaculate. Note how Rishi takes the demeanor of a producer- his accent, wardrobe and gait. Dimple shows why she's still the best in the business. Watch her sardonic smiles in sharp contrast the scene where she blasts a magazine editor. Simply outstanding. Isha impresses too. The cameos by Shah Rukh, Aamir, Abhishek, John, Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra are very interesting. Not to mention, an unusually long guest appearance by Hrithik. Shankar Ehsaan Loy music scores well with Naina… the best number. Three cheers for another Akhtar's dashing debut. mona@tribunemail.com |
|
Picks & piques
TIMEPASS Bedtime Stories has a workable formula, but falls far short of the movie it could have been. Adam Sandler returns to play a boy-man and does nothing to make us connect with him or care for the movie he stars in. Being a children's movie, it tries to explore the power of magic and imagination, but instead settles into dull fare. There are also some fine actors like Guy Pearce, Lucy Lawless and Keri Russell, who get wasted here. Pearce was very impressive in LA Confidential and Memento. For that matter, even Sandler has impressed far more in movies like Punch-Drunk Love and Spanglish. Courtney Cox plays a forgettable role and is going to have to try harder to break into movies. The only bright spot is Russel Brand, the controversial British comic, who manages to bring in a light humorous touch. Sandler plays Skeeter, whose father owed a hotel but had to sell it off to avoid bankruptcy. He tries to move his way up to become a manager to fulfill a promise made to his father years ago. But he has to contend with the likes of the wily Kendall (Guy Pearce). Skeeter soon finds out that the bedtime stories he tells his nephew and niece come true, but only the parts which they add. So he now tries to win the competition which determines who runs the hotel by manipulating the stories. There is a bit of special effects trying to add some magic to the movie, but the over all plot doesn't seem to quite evoke the necessary magic. The magic works within the confines of the plot, but doesn't spill out of the screen to astound us. Children might find the comedy amusing, but adults will want to be entertained on a more mature level which the movie fails to deliver. The low point is a flatulent bug-eyed guinea pig. Sandler doesn't seem to have the charm or the endearing qualities that would have made his character more appealing. There is also no chemistry at all between him and his love interest Jill (Russell). The one positive of this movie is that it reminds children of the power of imagination. This theme is explored well with the help of special effects. This central theme, but itself is commendable but everything else around it fails. If children can catch in to this theme, the movie would have succeeded on some level.
— IANS |
|
Speaking on the occasion Rajdeep Sardesai, Editor-in-Chief, IBN18 Network said “I would like to convey my heartiest congratulations to all the winners for being chosen the CNN-IBN Indian of the Year in their respective fields. The winners were selected for the award after a rigorous and transparent 4-tier selection process. Regardless of the winners, the effort of all the nominees is laudable.” — TNS
|
|
TAROT TALK ARIES: Three of Wands reveals this is a week that would herald change and newness into your life. There would be an increase in the love and affection you receive from the people around you and there would be an increase in your energy and enthusiasm. You would be willing to take on new responsibilities and challenges and would be able to give your best. Lucky Colour: Purple. Astro Tip : Learn from past experience. TAURUS: Sun indicates that most of your money concerns would be resolved favorably and loans, debts, credits would all fall into place. Focus on your career growth and don't waste time indulging in useless gossip. Investments made in the past would bring good returns. Lucky Colour: Earthy brown. Tip: Try to rid out of negative feelings through love. GEMINI: This would be a good week to deal with both professional and personal goals says Two of cups card. Your inherent charisma, energy levels and good temperament would make you popular and well liked by friends and acquaintances. For those of you who are unattached this would be a good time to find someone special. Lucky Colour: Brown. Tip: You need to act for yourself and for no one else. CANCER: The Hermit card reveals business and professional affairs may take a backseat; however, you should try to devote your attention to your career goals. Hard work and diligence would never let you down. Investments should be reviewed and some of you could consider investing in real estate. Wednesday would be beneficial for most of you this week. Lucky Colour: Creamy white. Tip: Focus on your goals and don't let temporary setbacks affect you. LEO: The card Strength says most of you would have to depend on the decisions of other people. Work would be relatively routine, however finances would start to stabilise and you would probably, have to invest more aggressively. Pay special attention to your kidneys and take up a regular exercise routine. Lucky Colour: Rainbow pastels. Tip: Overindulgence in food as well as alcohol may lead to health problems, so try and strike a balance. VIRGO: The Prince of Cups says this week, you would be able to express what you want from yourself, others and from life. Your ability to articulate your needs, wants and wishes would be heightened and give you an extra edge. You can easily plan a holiday and even, decide on doing something new or adventurous. Lucky Colour: White. Tip: Take things one at a time. LIBRA: You draw Seven of Swords this week, you may find that your income would fall short of the expenditure. In relationships, there would be much variety and warmth, giving you a sense of security as well as excitement. At work you may have to make some crucial decisions. Matters relating to law would be decided in your favour. Lucky Colour: Bottle green. Tip: Avoid the tendency to criticise others. SCORPIO: The Hanged Man says most of you would , be appreciated for everything that you've done so far and this would motivate you to do even better. At home and at work, you would have a good idea of what others need and by providing it, you would win yourself another admirer. Lucky Colour: Peacock green. Tip: Be patient and observant and the rewards would surely follow. SAGITTARIUS: The Lovers inspire you with love and creativity . Professional problems and challenges may take up your time and energy this week. The situation at home would be peaceful and relaxing. Money matters may create some tension on Friday. Lucky Colour : Silver grey. Tip: You may have to treat people with lot of charity. CAPRICORN: The Knight of Swords instigates you to be active and clever. The atmosphere at work would be pleasant and your peers would be co-operative. Students should focus and work hard. Those of you looking for jobs would receive good offers while those in politics and sports would do very well. Singles may receive good marriage proposals while married Capricorns would spend time with family and even, travel together. Lucky Colour: Red. Tip: Don't do anything at the cost of health. AQUARIUS: Two of Pentacles says the highlight of the week would be business, trade and chances to grow and flourish in the professional field. Some of you may have to stand up for your values and beliefs and defend them with strength and wisdom. Lucky Colour: Ruby red. Tip: Avoid undue splurging and put aside money for the upcoming months. PISCES: The Princes of Wands predicts there may be some changes at work and some of you may also, travel for work purposes. Businessmen should deal with labour issues with tact and wisdom while politicians may have to deal with vague feedback. In your personal life, some of you may feel inclined towards religion, spiritualism or philosophy. Lucky Colour: Green. Tip: Allow a sick situation blow over before you start a new project.
|
||
|
||
| HOME PAGE | |
Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir |
Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs |
Nation | Opinions | | Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi | | Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | Suggestion | E-mail | |
Actor and comedian Jaspal Bhatti has transported the shades of spring to tinsel town itself. On Basant Panchami this Saturday, he sported a peeli pagdi even in Mumbai, where he was getting all set for the finale of Nach Baliye 4, slated for Sunday, and also partook of the traditional halwa. "Yellow is my favourite colour," he says on the phone from B-town.
A good-looking struggling youngster does the perfect balancing act between traditions and modernity, an NRI couples' desperate measures to get their desi phoren daughter to like Punjab, youngsters caught while immigrating to Canada, family of four enjoys makki di roti sarson da saag, a phoren returned 'heroine' meandering through the green fields wearing a lost look, panchayat being held under the old banyan tree…..enough people. Is this the only way to define Punjabi cinema? Is Punjab all about saag, khet, NRI haveli, Mahindra tractor, sardari and zamindari. Time we get real. So, the moment this tall, suave, almond-eyed guy tells he wants to bring about 'change' and take Punjabi cinema a step further, we lap it up and hand him the bundle of expectations. 
Unlike other actors who dread 'Friday', Harbhajan Mann sleeps like a log before the release of his film. "I am never worried about the outcome of any sincere effort for I believe in karm and not fal," says the actor, who is in city to promote his upcoming movie Jag Jeondeyan De Mele. As for movie, this could be also looked at as an ode to the beautiful Vancouver. "We have captured the best locales of Vancouver," says Harbhajan Mann. "This movie doesn't deal with any issue, except for the universal feeling of love. I find it as the most beautiful emotion.” 
Some great news for 'club-eco' brigade. The city witnessed the launch of a green garment store on Saturday at F-10, Centra Mall Industrial Area, Chandigarh. Ludhiana based UV&W Products Limited, opened the city's exclusive garments store for people who want to shun harmful chemicals in their clothing. 
Abhinav Bindra has been announced the winner for the CNN-IBN Indian of the Year 2008 in Sports category for winning India’s first ever individual gold medal at the Beijing Olympics. The winners in other categories are Chief Minister (Bihar)- Nitish Kumar in Politics, HDFC Bank MD - Aditya Puri in Business, versatile actor - Aamir Khan in Entertainment, G Madhavan and Chandrayaan team in Public service and the Golden Globe winner A.R. Rahman in Global Indian. The award ceremony will be held in the presence of crème de la crème of the nation in New Delhi on February 2nd at Hotel Taj Palace.