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Show stoppers
This year saw more than 260 dogs flaunting their best at the annual event, with some of the rarest and finest breeds. “This year we have exclusive breeds like Standard Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier and Afghan Hound participating apart from the usual popular ones like Saint Bernard, Great Danes and Rottweilers. Due to our sealing this time we could only allow 260 entries, though the original entries were over 400,” says Gurtej Singh Sidhu, general secretary of the Chandigarh Kennel Club. But it wasn’t the basics of dog training, or the breeds that captured our attention but the luxuriously done accessories and the humungous amounts of money spent to keep them ‘happy’.
Dog stylists
Another luxury companion is an Afghan Hound, Jacob, from Bangalore. He has a team of four, two Australian trainers and handlers, and two who help with its upkeep for the owner. And he is probably the most expensive dog in the show, coming with a price tag of about Rs. 40 lakh.
Street smart
There are others who catch your eye, like Sharpei who make you wonder where does their face start and end, or a pair of miniature poodles who have a ‘filmy’ connection, one of them is named Hrithik, yet no-star tantrums. “I make sure to groom them myself and it is not a hassle. It runs in my family and I have 10-12 dogs, Rottweilers and German shepherds,” says Gaurav Singh Hoon, the owner. While some of them are eat, sleep and drink luxury there are others who believe in rough and tough way of life. Like Don, (the name itself is suggestive) a Himalyan Sheepdog, participating for the first time in a dog show. “He is a village dog and his maintenance is not much,” says Hemant Bedi, the owner from Khanna. But with so many huge, mean dogs around, how difficult is it to keep him cool? “Well, he is used to such life. Its nothing new for him,” he says. Did we hear someone say street smart? China coming
With everything Chinese taking over the Indian market, we have Chinese breeds of dogs sharing their space in the show too. Rare Chinese breeds like Chau Chau, which looks like a miniature lion king, Sharpei (remember the Garnier ad), and interesting ones like Chinese Picnic enjoying the adoring glances and appreciation. Balbir Singh, a govt employee from city has six of them and still can’t get enough. Apart from the competitions, the event for the first time offers awareness camps and vaccination stalls for the dogs, the special diet plans for them, and dog care products on sale. Well, with so much happening and all the excitement around, it fun being a dog! What say? lifestyle@tribunemail.com
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Collage of creativity
Move over multi-million auction houses, paintings’ price running into seven digits or even Christie’s and Sotheby’s. There might be elitists working to keep it elusive and exclusive. Art is about life! Reason enough to broaden its reach and spread the horizons. Perhaps, taking a cue, Snehalaya an NGO from Maloya, organised a workshop for slum kids at Government Museum and Art Gallery-10.
The two-days event had 30 eager beavers below 15 learning mask making and collage making. What to learn? Collage or mask? Read on. Poonam Khanna, assistant curator, Government Museum, says, “We had displayed miniature models of both to attract and help them decide.” The children got a whiff of the importance and history of masks as well. Says Viney Vadhera, the conductor, “Mask making is a dying art, I began with why they are important and tried teaching them in a playful mood.” Out came the results, 15 masks, from animals to historical characters to cartoons. Not to say, the other group of fifteen lost out on the fun. Says Ravinder Sharma, who conducted the workshop, “They learnt about recycling of waste, the textures and tones of colours to methods and techniques of collage making.” His observation? “They have a lot of talent, the only thing is we need to encourage them.” Asking the aim of any noble act is like reducing the effort to ashes, nevertheless it needs to be done. So, what was the reason for this workshop? Says Poonam Khanna, “Our goal is to spread art among children, they also visited the museum. All this, so that they are able to translate this exposure to skills and better themselves.” She adds, “We are soon starting with a children’s museum and will be conducting lots more such activities, you can consider it a prelude.” The gallery has been organizing such activities under the Outreach Activity Programme. Speaking of objective, can the achievement be far behind? “You should look at their faces, so enthusiastic, just yesterday we gave them paper, fevicol and the paraphernalia, the results were worth seeing,” says Poonam. Bet they were! manpriya@tribunemail.com |
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Romantica 2009
British Library is organising some very interesting competitions on the occasion of the festival of love — Valentines Day from February 12 to February 14th. These competitions are centered around the theme of love.
The inaugural ceremony will take place at 12 noon at the British Library-9 on Thursday, 12 February. The various competitions are:
Poetry Recitation Competition Enacting Romance Competition Romancing Literature Competition Musically Yours Competition Speak Your Heart Out Competition Love Quiz If you are keen to participate, registrations are on. Last date to register is 10 February, 7pm.
— TNS |
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Artistic invasion
Forts are akin to a mirror that reflects, perhaps more clearly than any sheet of glass the attainments of a people – technological as well as artistic – and bear eloquent witness to their struggles, sorrows and joys. Be it in Europe, Asia or Africa or in the South American continent, wherever there exist a heritage of millennia old civilization there exists forts that bear this out. Some citadels have survived the vagaries of time better than others but even the ruins tell a stirring tale of lost grandeur and heroism.
These represent and showcase the glorious diversity of our culture as well as repositories of literature music and performing arts. As a matter of fact in most cases prominent forts have been recognised – some for centuries- as important seats of culture. Many a sovereign who commissioned a major fort or added substantially to an old construction in his domain was also a patron of music, dance and art. Raja Man Sing Tomar of Gwalior was an accomplished dhrupad singer and the first to recognise the genius of Tansen. This great musician’s spiritual preceptor was a Sufi mystic Mohammed Gaus whose mausoleum is visited by almost everyone who comes to the fort. Within the compound of the Gwalior fort are awe-inspiring Jain statues, a historic Gurudwara and temples built in different regional styles, for instance Teli ka mandir and Saas Bahu ka mandir. This is just one example of how a fort in the days of its glory attracted traders, craftsperson, pilgrims along with courtiers and soldiers of fortune. The fort continues to be central focus in the life of the city and just beyond the ramparts is the museum (Gujri Rani Ka Mahal) that is a rich treasury of priceless artifacts. The story of a fort thus is never restricted to the narrative of battles, victories and defeat. These compounds have for generations reverberated with soulful singing, graceful dancing and joyous celebrations in which the general population participated enthusiastically. “When we get to know the forts of India a little better we come to appreciate the history of our great nation far better. It becomes possible to look at the past with detachment and great sympathy. The definition of heroes and villains begins to change and this can contribute greatly getting rid of caste and communal prejudices,” says Chani. The programme is conceived as a multimedia fare presented via television that will do justice to a subject that has great promise. Each episode will take a long lingering look at the building and highlight the prominent landmarks or characteristic features of the fort. At the same time imaginative recreation of the past shall supplement the dry historical narrative utilising folk forms prevalent in the region where the fort stands. The story of the fort will be told in the `local voice’. When the episode focuses upon the forts of Rajasthan Mangania Langanhars, Maand singers and Babujee ki phaad and puppeteers will be included. When we are in Madhya Pradesh Aalaha singers will accompany the viewer. In Gujarat it would be the Swang and Bhawai and Kacchi Ghodi, while in Maharashtra Tamasha and Laavani will form an integral part of the presentation. Down south in Karnataka it could be Barra Katha and in Kerala Kathakali, Theyam and Kalirpattu. As we head towards the Andhra Pradewsh and are walking around in Golconda, it will obviously be the poetic compositions of Quli Qutab shah. In the imperial cities of Delhi and Agra there is no dearth of the cultural wealth that we can draw upon. From the days of Amir Khusro to decadent musical soirees during the reign of Mohammed Shah Rangeela, the fort have had an open door for musicians and others artists. Rajput and Mughal miniature paintings related to the forts as well as pen and ink sketches, water colours and lithographs executed by the British will also be used. This will try to grapple not only with the problem of conservation but also the hardships that the people residing within and in the vicinity are vulnerable to. Such problems are quite glaring in Chittor, Mandu and Toglaqabad. At certain others places the fort’s location in a wildlife sanctuary (Ranthambor) or in remote wilderness (Gadkundar). The programme is designed as wholesome infotainment for the family. A wide audience cutting across the class, regional and gender divide can view it with pleasure. The shooting for forts of Mandu (MP), Gingee (TN), Golconda (AP), Bidar (Karnataka), Bijapur(Karnataka), Daultabad (Maharashtra), Janzira (Maharashtra), Bekal (Kerala), Kannur (Kerala), Palakkad (Kerala), Mehrangarh (Rajasthan), Jaisalmer (Rajasthan), Bikaner (Rajasthan), Agra (UP) and Fathepur Sikri (UP) has been already completed.
— TNS
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Poetic justice
Tera insaan qatil hai merre kadar masooma da, Zabr te zulm pal de ne teri rabbi raza ban ke ” The couplet which brings the hypocrisy and perfidy underlying the veneer of spirituality and religious extremism into sharp focus also reflects the anguished self of poet Kulbir Kaur, a noted academician, poet and short story writer. Sharing her perceptive view of poetry she maintains: “It is an articulation of our inner impulses and complex thoughts and its sculpting is influenced by writer’s deep roots in life, language, traditions and the milieu.”
Though it is believed that writers are born and not created but the upbringing of any creative person in a literary environment helps to cultivate his writing skills, observed Kulbir while in conversation with Lifestyle. Born in a sleepy village near Tarn Taran the child prodigy grew assimilating the hues and colours of nature and pastoral culture in an orthodox set up. But my poetic bent of mind inspired me to sculpt poems in Punjabi, much to the admiration of my friends and teachers and many of them are published in my books. Though she had evolved her own craft of expression but her creative potential wore the impression of his father Gurcharan Singh who had already authored six books in English. Holding a doctorate in English from Panjab University, Kulbir is presently teaching at the Government College of Education here. She had written five books namely Sirjana, Kudrat, Dharti Badi Haseen, Zindagi da Theatre, Baag te Bache in Punjabi and a collection of her poems in English Eternity in Motion is ready for formal release. On the diverse themes of her writings, which always remain close to the pulse and heart beat of a common man she claims that whenever I introspect or circumspect many new sensations creep up and find expression in my verses. She, however, reveres in gratitude to her husband and children for their wonderful cooperation. The flight of poet Kulbir’s vision and imagination while eulogising the supreme power of Almighty expresses solidarity with Him in her couplet. Sample this, “Teri suchi khudai nu lagaye daag duniyan ne, Teri fitrat ne ki laina si khalkat da khuda ban ke. ” lifestyle@tribunemail.com |
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Up in smoke
Researchers from University of Iowa have found a link between smoking and premature aging. They identified a key protein that is lost in Werner’s syndrome (premature aging) decreased in smokers with emphysema i.e. chronic lung disease. This decrease harms lung cells that normally heal wounds.
“Smoking can accelerate the aging process and shorten the lifespan by an average of more than 10 years,” said Toru Nyunoya, MD, assistant professor of internal medicine at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine and a pulmonologist with University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. “We focused on what happens within the lungs because of the similar aging effects, including atherosclerotic diseases and cancer, seen in people with Werner’s syndrome and people who smoke,” Nyunoya added. People with Werner’s syndrome begin aging rapidly after adolescence and typically die from cancer or heart disease in their 40s or 50s. During the study, the researchers compared lung fibroblasts taken from nonsmokers without lung disease and patients with a heavy smoking history and severe emphysema. They found that the cells taken from the smokers with emphysema had lost their ability to divide or grow, confirming that smoking habits cause cell aging. These cells also had lower levels of Werner’s syndrome protein, compared to cells from nonsmokers.The team also applied cigarette smoke extract to cultured lung fibroblasts taken from nonsmokers.
— ANI |
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Support system
Sachin Kalra Finally, it’s all paying off. You’re edging toward your weight loss goals, are looking pretty terrific and not to mention fit and healthy. You are happy and want to celebrate the new you. But what might come as a surprise is the unexpected resistance and a surprising lack of enthusiasm from some of your family and friends — maybe even your partner — about your new look. It’s ironic that some of the most discouraging words may come from those closest to you. When you experience this resentment, it’s not uncommon to pull away in anger and hurt. But this is the last thing you want to do. With a little creative handling, those who love you will not only get used to the new you; they will celebrate your newfound good health, good looks, and new attitude. Let’s take a look at some possible solutions: Talk it out
Don’t clamp up, feeling all hurt and resentful. It’s always better to talk it over with the people involved. Bring up the changes in your lifestyle and appearance, and ask gently if there is something that is upsetting them. Remind them of how much their support has always meant to you, and how happy you are to be healthy. A little reassurance in the right direction will go a long way. Share it
They may feel left out and resent the time you spend working out. In this case you could try to involve them in your exercise routine. You might want to invite them to join you in the gym, go out for a walk with you, or bring them along for refreshing swim. It’s also possible to combine exercise with family activities. Rather than heading off alone for a morning walk, you could take the family or friends to the zoo or the shopping mall. That way you can spend the day walking and everyone will be involved in the fun. Green monster
They could feel jealous or insecure about the “new you”. Perhaps they’re afraid that you’ll make new friends, develop new interests, or attract too much attention from the opposite sex. They may subconsciously fear that you’ll abandon them. In this case it’s important to reassure them and address their fears. If the gym is an unfamiliar place that you disappear to five days a week, they may have unrealistic ideas about what goes on there. Take them along and let them see for what it really is. And remember not to neglect other areas of your relationship. Be sure you still spend plenty of quality time together doing things you all enjoy. Nothing personal
There could be feelings of guilt about their own less-than-healthy ways. It may be easier for them to discourage you than to change their own bad habits. Don’t take those insecure comments too personally. Look upon this as an opportunity to be a good role model. Show them what fun it is to be healthy and active. Let them know how much better you feel when you eat right. Educate them and help them to make small healthy changes. Once they begin to see some benefits themselves, they’ll be much more enthusiastic about your own healthy efforts. Be a guide
It’s possible that they mean well. They may be sincerely trying to help, but just don’t know how. If their actions or suggestions are less than helpful, then it’s up to you to guide them in the right direction. Give them very specific information about what they can do to assist and encourage you. Tell them how much it means to you to receive a sincere compliment. Remember to be flexible and open-minded when dealing with these situations. You’re much better off responding with positive suggestions rather than anger.
kalrasachin@hotmail.com |
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“Get the hair spray, I walk is not right, look your best baby!” The last moment touch ups and an entire lot running behind for the perfect act. It’s not a day’s action in the LFW or some behind the scene action from a film, but a day at the annual dog show organised by the Chandigarh Kennel Club. The biggest and most exclusive gathering of dog lovers across the region, it was the nothing short of mela, one stop place for the elitist, classiest and rarest of the breeds. And all form Chihuahuas to Rottweilers to huge but humble Saint Bernard’s, every dog looked dressed up for a red carpet entry.
Dog shows are much more than just pet parades. Air-conditioned rooms, imported trainers, premium products, they live life king-size. Like this 3 year-old Standard poodle, Yoyo, has a professional handler from Chile and a personal stylist who has specifically come for the event from Thailand, the owner though is from Chennai. “It is the No. 2 dog in India right now and has won various national events. We participated in Agra before Chandigarh and this dog was the best in the show,” says Mariano, the handler. The sparkling white dog is sure pretty to pose, thanks to the stylist, Thearasak, from Thailand. “There is a lot of grooming required for competitions like trimming, colouring and make-up,” he says. Talk of being style conscious and he says every dog has its own style. “The grooming depends on the breed but we don’t go overboard with it and try to keep it natural. The FCI shows don’t allow you to put anything on dogs, so its all natural too.” What else? It takes one hour to get its teeth brushed!
G.S. Chani and Gyandev Singh have come together to produce and direct 26 parts documentary series on the Forts of India to be telecasted on Doordarshan. The series is inspired by the idea that forts are not a subject of specialist interest – of significance to students of military history or architecture. These have been an integral part of the life of our people and continue to do so. India has a particularly rich legacy of forts and fortified cities. 
Many times a parent, spouse, or best friend will be less than supportive of your healthy new lifestyle. As unusual as this may seem, experts say it’s actually quite common to receive some unexpected reactions when you dramatically change your appearance. Human beings are hard-wired to resist change, so it’s not uncommon to encounter some resistance whenever change occurs.