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Guiding right Abhijeet gets candid about his professional tiff with co- judge Alka Yagnik and much more It has to be a reverse process-unlearn collectively and then learn selectively. Also, don't go by the literal meaning of 'learning', for one can never mug up,only practice music. We realised the worth of these basic instructions given by playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya better when he chose a less-trained singer over a nearly perfect one. A simple comparison as an example explained the rest, "You don't send your 10-year-old child to a gym because that can hinder his natural growth. Similarly, when you send him to a music school that might condition him to a particular singing style, deterring him to make optimum use of his talent." So Abhijeet refuses to be a teacher or guru and prefers to play the role of a guide, "I advice kids how to improve on their singing and not thrust on them my singing style." We saw him exactly doing the same at the auditions of the reality show, Zee Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs in the city on Saturday. With an unfamiliar calm and composure that we usually don't see on screen he was 'guiding' kids. Here, we have a justification for that too, "I am also a human being. Emotions spurt naturally when the public does injustice to a deserving contestant." Then the role alters, though for a few minutes, "From being a judge, I then become a lawyer for the contestant and start defending him. But I don't regret it." And what about the tiff with Alka Yagnik that at times scores more TRPs for the show than anything else? "We have been cordially working together from the last 18 years. Certain differences on such a show where emotions run so high are expected but then at the end of the day, we are friends again." Known for being candid, Abhijeet does not deny that at times, things go overboard. "I repent when while having an argument, we forget how will kids feel about it." Busy with music concerts, umpteen Bollywood projects, corporate events, the singer does take out time for his NGO, Parents Are Precious to All. "Guess, I have sung enough Bollywood numbers that hopefully will remain famous for the next 200 years so right now I want to focus on the working of my NGO." Before signing off, he does not forget to give his piece of advice, which this time wasn't for the aspiring singers but for the government, "Please construct as many public bathrooms in every city as possible, so that undeserving singers can enjoy their own space and cause hearing loss to people." Quite a suggestion! ashima@tribunemail.com
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Alka's parental concern Playback sensation Alka Yagnik has a bag full of advice for parents whose kids are participating in reality shows
It's something we have heard so often from the bigwigs of music industry and here it was repeated yet again. This time, it was playback singer, Alka Yagnik, taking the turn, "I am not saying it for the sake of it. It's true, proved and established that singers are born. All you can do is polish a singer and not create one." And behind talking about the clichéd topic once again, there was a rather important motive, "It is imperative to make parents understand that every child cannot become a singer. If the child doesn't have the potential, please don't push him." She feels that parents should realise that their kid's losing a reality show is not the end of life, "Ambitions of parents can at times leave the kid with inferiority complex. Also the reason to participate in a reality show should ideally be to refine child's art rather than fame or money." Yet, the singer is in favour of reality shows featuring kids. "The talent if caught young can be moulded accordingly. Experiments can be done with the voice to make it sound better." Having judged several singing reality shows, she promises this season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa to be different.
"When in every season, there are three to four singing reality shows running on national televisions, a novel concept would help earn high TRPs. The theme for this time is girls versus boys, where in I will be a mentor to girls and Abhijeet will guide boys." Twenty years of playback singing and numerous awards, Alka however has now her priorities changed. "I do not wish to be a part of every movie or win all awards. They are an inspiration but then with an award ceremony happening every other day and a new untrained singer on the block, every hour, it is important to figure out what you actually want." So, achievement for her is, "Competing with oneself. A desire to outdo my singing talent and contributing qualitatively to the Bollywood music industry." Also she has to her credit various Punjabi hits but that she terms as very normal, "I know Hindi, Urdu and Sanskrit,w hich are the mother of all languages in India and so singing is any Indian language is hardly a problem."
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Weather Netas Sreedhara Bhasin The weather Netas are playing tricks with us. Maybe, they know that the elections are on the way. While we are enjoying unusually cool breeze, the farmers are in utter distress over the future of the Rabi crop. It seems mercurial is more than a literal epithet to be ascribed to the weather Netas. Nothing seems predictable. Last year, we had unusually high rains in autumn followed by a rather bizarre, humid and warm winter We have been blaming global warming for almost everything that has fallen out of pattern - whether it is the rise of respiratory disorder amongst the children or the silting of the choes. And now we have another easy scapegoat - the recession. I know of people who have refused to pay a meager amount of Rs.30 to the kudawalla (although, the house they live in would fetch crores) because the economic recession is blowing hot. It frazzles my mind when I go into any store in Chandigarh. Every store is packed with people who seem to be rushing to the cash register clutching limitless bottles of moisturisers, ketchup and soft drinks. I believe the Wholesale Price index climbed to an all time high last year and inflation is raging. But, try to get a ticket for any of the new Hindi movies at the new multiplexes and Mr. Chidambaram's proclamations would seem unreal. Every one is pondering over the tribulations that the imminent parliamentary elections would impose on the city. An auto driver is worrying about the processions and meetings that would jam the roads. The Netas are worrying about swaying their constituencies. The realtors are worrying about the impact of home loans on the prospective buyers. The Blame Game is very convenient- where you can always find a good candidate to blame, shifting focus away from your own accountability and befuddling the mass. We are crying hoarse about political corruption, over population, female foeticide. We blame a whole lot of ills on the migrant labourers, indolent policemen and lack of town planning. And everyone shakes his/her well-groomed head and says gloomily -"Don't know what will happen to this city." I feel a cozy glow beginning to spread in my cynical heart when I read about the new trend that is shakily emerging - real people with real lives and education trying to cross over to the hitherto forbidden arena of politics. I read with interest about the Professionals Party of India and Paritrana, a party formed by five IIT alumni. What we need are some Meera Sanyals in Chandigarh. Maybe, then we will stop blaming global warming and George Bush for all that ails us in Chandigarh! Even the weather netas are getting tired of the blame game. matkachowk@gmail.com
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Samurai of goodwill An act of goodness, initiated with confidence, sincerity and passion will always reap dividends. This is what each Rotarian believes in. No wonder it boast of more than 1.2 million Rotary members in 32,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. And one man who dedicatedly wants to carry forward the humanitarian service is John Kenny, the past dean of his local law faculty, a judge and a Rotary. As John takes over as the President of Rotary International on July 1, 2009, he shares issues that need to be nailed immediately, and things that Rotary can be proud of. In city, this major donor to the Rotary foundation and a bequest society member has the will to map the plan, which will give the world a better and a brighter tomorrow. “Shortage of water is an issue that could create conflict,” feels John Kenny. “I tell everyone that we can live without oil, but definitely not without water. Providing clean and clear water should be our priority, something that the Rotarians would work for immediately.” As per John, eradicating polio is yet another main priority. “Through our fundraising challenge, we will be able to tackle the problem and get rid of it forever,” he adds. “Last but not the least, increasing literacy amongst the girls is also an important issue that we work towards.” All the good work is credited to the dedicated members. John is really happy to see the tremendous possibilities and the amount of good work the Rotarians are doing in India. The chain continues. “There has been a substantial increase in the membership of Rotarians in India, which is because Rotary is perceived to do good work,” feels John, a Rotarian since 1970. However, convincing the youngsters to be part of this organisation and take up the humanitarian cause could be challenging. Smiles. “Not at all. Rotaract Interact is our commitment to youth. We have all kinds of cultural and educational exchange programs, meant for the youngsters. In fact, some students who have studied through these programmes are handling respectable and high posts,” says John. The saga of goodness continues, as Rotarians International, chalks out a strategic plan with seven priorities that will set the course for a strong future. Offers John, “Eradicating polio, advancing the recognition and public image of Rotary, increasing Rotary’s capacity, expanding membership globally are some of the things that we would work on.” jasmine@tribunemail.com |
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Summer cool
Says Abhishek Sharma, the sales executive, "These corner fitting ACs are just to break the monotony and basically are for people who want something different." Moving on, there's refrigerator, now that just by itself is nothing different. But if it's in red with subtle designing and golden red butterflies, it calls for a second look. That's the Side by Side refrigerator from Samsung. Then there's remote controlled devices, that let you control your fan as well. Move over, remote as well, one product lets you control air conditioner through laptop as well. Then there's also sensor technology helping you save on energy bills. — TNS On till 13th April at Kissan Bhawan. |
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Kala sangam
Two rising stars of Indian classical music and dance — Mayank Verma (Bhajans) and Raminder Khurana (Odissi dance) came to city to perform at Pracheen Kala Kendra’s 140th Baithak Programme on Saturday evening. Hailing from the family of musicians, Mayank Verma is the son and disciple of Hari Charan Verma, a distinguished vocalist and an eminent broadcaster of India. He has received training in classical and light classical music from his father. Mayank beautifully combines the flavour of light classical in ghazals and bhajans, and has developed a style of his own. Mumbai-based young exponent of Odissi dance Raminder Khurana epitomises elegance and sophistication by blending modern sensibilities with the ancient ethos of Eastern India to create the highly lyrical dance art of Odissi. She has been trained under the expertise of Odissi dance legend Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra and Guru Natabar Maharana. She is very creative and performs Odissi with extraordinary artistic ability. Raminder’s Odissi dance recital is notable for her strong sense of taal, deft footwork, lyrical movements and intense abhinaya.
— TNS
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Shoppers' stop
Another rollicking rom-com, just right for an idle summer afternoon. Deviating from the usual trappings of the genre, Confessions of a Shopaholic, based on Sophie Kinsalla's novels, takes you straight in to the frenzied world of Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher), a girl who prefers stores to men coz they never disappoint. Her world revolves around Macy's, Bloomingdales and Asprey, even as every excursion sinks her deeper into debt. Apart from her piled up credit card bills, the journo has bigger career issues to settle. The self-styled spendthrift fashionista craves for a job in Elle-like Alette, but ends up dishing out money saving tips in a financial magazine. What an irony! As the going gets tough, she seeks more solace in shopping. "When I shop, the world gets better and then it's no more. So, I have to shop again," she says.
Stirred and shaken, the girl comes to her parents' house, only to find an Alette job waiting for her. But she refuses the offer and decides to fix the mess. The film is engaging with a witty screenplay which has madcap slapstick moments. The scenes like Rebecca trying to steal the letter from Allete office, the fan dance at Miami and at the shopaholic anonymous are hilarious. Director PJ Hogan (My Best Friend's Wedding) extracts neat performances from the lead pair. Fisher is fabulous with her goofball antics. Dancy impresses as a suave boss. Highly recommended for those who love to indulge in guilty pleasures. mona@tribunemail.com
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Calling critics For the first time in the city, begins a two-month art appreciation course Kala Bodhi at the Zazen Art Center-47, under the able guidance of D.C. Bhattacharyya; eminent art historian, former professor and chairman, Fine Arts Department, Panjab University, and former director fine arts museum. He is at present a consultant at Govt Museum & Art Gallery-10. The course would be once a week, on a Wednesday, and the eight classes would cover various interesting facets of art, both traditional and contemporary. Moreover the sessions would be interactive, with visual aids whenever needed. All the participants would receive a certificate at the end of the course. Kala Bodhi is not just a series of lectures, it has been specially designed by D.C. Bhattacharyya keeping in mind the pulse of the city art lovers . — TNS |
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Tarot Talk ARIES: The Wheel of Fortune reveals the past would have a strong influence on your present. Events that may have occurred long ago, in your personal life, would demand your attention and energy, and you would need to deal with them. Tip of the week: The stress of this week may have an effect on your peace of mind, so, spend some time relaxing and having fun. Lucky Colour: Sea green. TAURUS: The Princess of Swords says you would be overflowing with enthusiasm, stamina and confidence. You may have to change and postpone your travel plans. Work on balancing expenditure and start a regular savings plan. Focus on career matters. Tip: A light and playful attitude is best adopted in heavy situation. Lucky Colour: Red. GEMINI: Nine Golden Cups promise monetary benefits. Investments would be highlighted on Monday and Wednesday. At work and in social circle, you would be sought out for your honest opinion and straightforward attitude. You may devote maximum time on religious discourses. Tip: Meditation and spiritual pursuits are elevating. Lucky Colour: Peacock blue. CANCER: You card The Hierophant enthuses your diligence and determination. It is a time to dance and celebrate life. Those in the fields of media, acting and glamour would be recognised and appreciated. Romance may have to be put on the backburner; however, travel would yield benefits. Tuesday and Friday bring strong determination and inspiration on Monday. Tip: Be realistic and practical about your approach. Lucky Colour: Saffron. LEO: Five of pentacles are arranged in the Tree of Life formation showing influence. All the effort and hard work of the past would pay off and you would receive the appreciation and acknowledgment that you truly deserve. Avoid speculation on Thursday. Tip: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky Colour: Crimson. VIRGO: The Magus says this would be quite an emotionally charged week. Professionally, you may decide to speak with a senior about your growth and development in the organisation. Homemakers and children will need to work extra hard on Tuesday. Tip: Give adequate rest to your mind and body and avoid worrying excessively about trivial issues. Lucky Colour: Peacock blue. LIBRA: The Two of Wands would bring growth in profession and business. There may be some hurdles, but you would be able to overcome them easily. Emotions would play a key role in relationships on Wednesday. A Taurean will be helpful on Friday. Tip: Beware of superficial and domineering women in the family. Lucky Colour: Baby Pink. SCORPIO: You draw The Prince of Pentacles, which symbolizss material gains. Your nurturing instincts would be heightened and you would take great pleasure in bringing happiness to others. Social interactions would also, be quite fruitful and would give you a lot of joy. You may also travel somewhere close by over the weekend. Tip: Go over accounts carefully and don't neglect correspondence. Lucky Colour: Pomegranate red. SAGITTARIUS: The Queen of Cups dances unto your life and you would be reflecting on the past and planning for the future. At work, there may be plenty of meetings and discussions. Fever, cold and cough can bother some of you on Thursday. Consult your physician. Tip: Use your intuitive powers, and don't lose hope. Lucky Colour: Black. CAPRICORN: The Star opens new opportunities for major transformation. There may be deadlines that you have to meet at work. At home, certain joint investments may have to be reviewed and revised. Those of you, who are single, may meet someone interesting in the professional world. Tip: Listen carefully what other peoples are saying but don't give them your total trust. Lucky Colour: Rainbow pastels. AQUARIUS: Certain stresses would have started to tell on you and this would be the perfect week to deal with them says The Prince of Wands. At home, be tactful yet straightforward and things would become peaceful. Spending time with friends and giving some space to your partner would also help. Tip: Do not be disappointed if expectations are not fulfilled. Lucky Colour: Rainbow pastels. PISCES: The Ace of Pentacles sees the long hours, hard work and tough challenges would all be rewarded and recognised. Take good care of your emotional, mental and physical health. At home, you would get the love and support that you require from your partner. Tip: Try to be diplomatic. Lucky Colour: Silver grey.
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Cooling just got even cooler! Well, that's what the ongoing exhibition put up by CII seems to suggest. Of course, there were the very ubiquitous air conditioners, refrigerators, plasmas, cutting across the mundane, the clichéd, the usual, we bring you something worth giving a second look or thought. To begin with, a spring summer inspired picture welcomes you in few of the initial stalls. That's Art cool series by consumer durable maker LG Electronics. Abhishek Bhatnagar, marketing manager, apprises, "This series is for what we call the premium segment. Normally it sells only a fraction of the general sales." Priced at Rs 39000, the series also boasts of three way cooling system.
Recession and premium segment don't seem to gel. He shakes, "More than the recession, it's weather that has the potential to affect us." Continuing with the different technology, there's another thing that caught our attention. Vertis Pristine, a corner AC from the house of Voltas. Those tired seeing the regular rectangular conditioners can give a try.
However, her column 'The Girl in Green Scarf,' which she hates the most, becomes a smash-hit and even wins her a business trip to Miami and love of her boss Luke Brandon (Hugh Dancy). But Bloomwood's woes refuse to vanish, as she realises that city debt collector, Derek Smeath, is hot on her pursuit. Finally, she is cornered by the man, who exposes her on a TV show. Worst, even her guy and her best friend turn their back on her as they cannot take the white lies.