Knowing much more about the Indian classical music, cultural heritage and the contemporary art scene in India than the most accomplished artist, the Munich born German national, Matthias Muller is a guitar virtuoso composer arranger of International eminence. He has partnered with Satvik Veena maestro Salil Bhatt in a captivating Jugalbandi album Mumbai to Munich released for this region by Kathak guru Shobha Koser here today.

Having done an extensive study of jazz and fusion with the likes of Jeff Richman and Joe Daversa, Mutthias has a profound fascination for the Indian classical and folk music.

With 25 years of excellence in music Mutthias has extensively performed in Germany, India, Switzerland, Italy and Poland recently. At the Pracheen Kala Kendra he explained the emotional significance and cultural relevance of the compositions of their album Mumbai to Munich.

Watch the ace guitarist in live performance along with Satvik Veena maestro in Pracheen Kala Kendra’s prestigious Fusion Music Concert to be held at Diwan Atma Ram Audtorium Law bhavan Sector 37 on February 9 at 6.30 PM onwards.

The biggest loser wins, the remark doled out in an authoritative voice rising above the din of desi pop songs booming out of funky mobile phones loosely held in the elastic hands of a crazy bunch hits the eardrums with a subtle hint of conviction.

The oft-quoted lines apparently about a reality show on the television would have been lost in the ruckus the youngsters create when they meet in the between-the-classes break at fast food joints. But sitting there - at CITCO's Stop ‘n' Stare - sipping coffee you wish was wee bit stronger and hotter, you realise the voice has the innate capability of drawing attention.

No wonder, almost all necks twist at a seemingly easy or grossly painful degree—all depending upon the position taken in the scheme of things by the listeners.

Clearly unconscious of the effect her avowal has on the comparatively restless kiddos, who shift in their seats as if to catch the words even before they escape the darkish lipper coated lips, the peroxide blonde passes fragile fingers through her tresses as if to untie imperceptible knots having capabilities of irritating her out of her somber mood.

As if taking cognizance of the anxiety, she says: "Am sure she will gain a lot out of it." This time you realise the words are addressed to the pretty young thing in tight jeans and tighter top. As you begin to wonder whether the jeans was stitched first and worn later or vice-versa, the voice rises again, this time to come out with a questions: "What do you say, Ayesha?"

Oh, so the friend's name is Ayesha. You wait with little patience for things to follow. "No, Nat, I still cannot understand how Fiza will gain out of the entire affair?"

Oh, ho! The gal's name is Nat, maybe short of Natasha. And they are after all not talking about the weight loss show, but about the little game of chance featuring Fiza and Chand, in which both have lost. Or, at the most its deuce between the two, with advantage to none!

Well, what is she talking about? Love makes the world go round in the wrong direction with a worried expression; and emotions fade even before the denims wear away. So, how is anyone gaining out of it?

Is Nat by any chance having on her mind John Donne's famous poem - The Indifferent? Yes, the one in which he says in no uncertain terms love's sweetest part is variety. You wait....

"Look at it this way," asserts Nat. "Monica Bedi enters a controversy, makes it big. Rahul Mahajan's story is hardly different. Before the two, it was Rakhi Sawant and Mallika Sherawat. In today's material whirl of mobiles and malls, it's not talent you need, but a controversy with velocity enough to propel you to fame".

As her translucent fingers grope the books before she detaches herself from the scene so heavy with the weight of her words, you replay the words in the player of your mind, again and again. And it dawns upon you the society is looking for heroes constantly, like in J.M. Synge's three act comedy The Playboy of Western World.

The people worship Amitabh Bachchan, but shift the focus on to Shahrukh Khan till Akshay Kumar is introduced by the media as a hero. And to occupy the slots of side heroes, you have people with controversy printed in bold letters in the resumes.

In the end, you cannot help but agree with Nat. You realise Fiza's story is a little different from Donne's in The Canonization. He says, "And if unfit for tomb or hearse, Our legend be, it will be fit for verse".

Fiza's tale may, or may not, culminate into a flick, but you really cannot say the lost-in-love lady will not make it to the sets of Big Boss. All the best to you, Fiza. Honey, just go out and shine, even if the moon is away. 

It's a classic reloaded. Raucously revamped, rapidly refurbished, Anurag Kashyap's retake on Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's iconic Devdas is raunchy enough to send the puritans into a tizzy. Dev. D takes the abstract, self-destructive indulgence of No Smoking to the next level.

Devinder Singh Dhillon (Abhay Deol), aka Dev, is bratty, vodka-in-coke loving arrogant boy who likes to have his way. Unapologetic, unabashed and totally unclear about his life, he returns to his native village and childhood sweetheart Paro (Mahi Gill) in Punjab. But our quintessentially queer, rich hero cannot marry the rustic, ordinary girl, especially after the latter has sent him her nude pictures. As Dev questions her fidelity, Paro decides to dump the 'lusty loser' and gets married to a 'mature head.'

Now begins Dev's real descent into despair. He moves into a dingy hotel in Paharganj, immersing himself deeper in substance, spirit and sex. It's here he meets Lenny, aka, Chandramukhi (Kalki Koechlin), an ordinary going girl during the day and a libido-boosting escort, who specialises in phone sex, in the night.

Dev. D is a psychedelic commentary on today's youth, the chaos around them, their candour, conceit and conflicts. From adolescents involved in sex chat, exchange of nude pictures on internet and youth indulging in substance abuse - mowing down people on road - to infamous MMS scandal, Kashyap brings to the fore the very real, though less shown, face of modern generation. It shocks, intrigues, puzzles and at times even infuriates you. The non-linear narrative, surreal setting and anti-conformist approach of the maverick director spice up this weird, voyeuristic tale. Kashyap shows the nerve to present his version of the classic in a most brazen and audacious style. The emotional tension in the film is created not by suffering lovers but individuals battling the confusion in their lives.

The performances are top-notch. Deol dazzles as defiant, deviant Dev. The remarkable ease he shows while portraying eccentricity is simply exceptional. Debutantes Mahi Gill and Kalki don't look like newcomers. In fact, Kashyap has deliberately made the two leading ladies strong and clear-headed, a complete foil to dwindling Dev, who has a clouded vision. So we see Paro, who is not hesitant to walk out of a relationship after being accused of promiscuity and Chanda who depicts massive courage to take on the bad, mad world that exploited her.

Amit Trivedi's music is impressive with emotional atyachar already a chartbuster. The movie has a total of 18 soundtracks, mostly in the background.

See it for sheer oddity.

mona@tribunemail.com

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

ARIES: The Empress card says you would be filled with enthusiasm and zest. You may need to review your investments and financial planning. Professionally, it would be advisable for you to be as creative and innovative as possible.

TAURUS: The Prince of Wands reveals a good time to make presentations, attend interviews and discussions. You may have to give up a certain habit that upsets your partner. Favorable weeks to buy, sell and invest.

GEMINI: The Chariot says the week would be quite favorable for travelling and vacations. Taking care of overdue bills, loans and other debts would help you to balance your finances. A person whose name starts with alphabet A or S will support you on Wednesday or Friday.

CANCER: You draw The World as such, you would experience greater amount of peace and contentment. There may be unexpected meetings and windfalls on Tuesday and Wednesday. Changes are just on cards for professionals. Do not overlook the advice of elders. You may be concerned about the health of your spouse.

LEO: The Hanged Man opts for important changes at home and work. Professionals and business people would profit. If planning a new venture, do not be reckless and rash in your decisions. Those who are planning to go abroad, start taking action. Socially, travelling with friends and family would be a happy event. Pay attention to health and do not ignore seemingly minor ailments.

VIRGO: Ace of Pentacles reveals success and prosperity in your plans. Your strategic mind would be able to counter the plans of rivals and competitors successfully. Be careful about lending money on Wednesday. You may be inclined towards spiritualism, religion and astrology.

LIBRA: The three of Coins says professionals in the field of law, politics, education, travel and religion would shine and rise brightly. You would be able to deal with your emotions and express them at the right time and to the right person. There would be an increase in your confidence and enthusiasm towards weekend.

SCORPIO: The Moon brings a quickening, many changes and insights. Friends and family would lift up your spirits. Going out on a trip and spending time with them would bring you much joy. Financially, there may be some tough times. Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded.

SAGITTARIUS: The Ace of Wands reveals deception and legal hassles on Tuesday and Wednesday. Whatever decision you take, it would have a bearing on your future. Money and health would both be stable and wouldn’t need much looking after.

Capricorn: Six of Swords brings mental clarity and perspective in chaotic situation. You would cement relationships and bring warmth into your life. You would be rewarded for your efforts on Tuesday or Friday. You would remain busy with financial issues, pending tasks and legal, property matters.

Aquarius: You draw the Wheel of Fortune so the efforts you had been putting would now begin to show results. Financial and other rewards would motivate you to work harder and better. Those involved in exports or shipping would sign important deals or agreements. Any legal issues would be decided in your favour.

PISCES: The Priestess infuses a gracious influence in your life. Work related problems may take up your time, energy and patience. Keep a check on your temper and be as tactful as you can. Children and elders may need extra attention and love. Travel plans may be finalised and the trip would be quite productive. Pay close attention to any health problem and also, keep a tab on expenses.