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Sites of concern
Question: Where do you find latest updates on the Iranian outrage? Another one, where do you catch shots of violent civil unrest, and police action in a state that redefined the meaning of rogue. Where can you find an expert opinion and critical discussions on the ground realities of a burning country that has turned cold and red from the death of innocents? Answer: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Flicker. Surprised? Don't be, well, if you are among the global voices that are screaming out with pain for Iranian outrage victims, these are your sources of minute-by-minute happenings and not CNN or BBC. Twitter and Facebook have become the most effective media tools since the Iranian crisis struck. There have been tweets, video uploads, news and information updates on these social networking sites, which have become best possible dumping grounds for citizen journalists inside and outside Iran. And in the city, they are the only source for the Iranian community to stay in-touch with the unfolding events. At the time when the young Iranians are feeling disillusioned, and are left with the option of silence or confrontation, the city Iranian community is opting for the former. But the silence is not keeping them off the action. "We keep an update through official Iranian websites and newspapers online. We also check out Indian newspapers and some foreign sources, but only objective ones," says Abbas Abbasi, an Iranian Ph.D student from English department, PU. Since the Iranian protest outbreak, the 'Twitter revolution' has seen users posting updates on civil unrest and police violence going on in Tehran. Photos captured through mobiles and opinions posted online have helped disseminate news and views on the situation. And while the foreign media coverage is largely devoted to these online uprisings by the Iranians to let the outside world know what's happening, talking about it openly is not on the agenda of these students. "Its not that we are indifferent towards our country, but we believe that it's a family problem, something that's internal and should be handled internally only," feels Abbasi. Sure, probably the only reason why foreign media has been banned by the Iranian government. But Abbasi explains, "In such situation, objectivity is impossible. So, we choose to depend only on reliable sources for information. Though we are not in Iran, but we are still online participants in this hour of crisis." Sure, we couldn't agree more. Check these facts for further proof. Political blog aggregator Memeorandum is all Iran right now, and has in-depth information. The BBC, CNN and other foreign news agencies are picking up coverage from various online portals. YouTube, Twitter, Flicker, Liveleak are full of photos and videos uploaded by Iranians. Twitter search engine Twazzup has created a great page for real-time updates from and about Iran. And all this in a country that recently debated applying death penalty for subversive blogging and had banned Facebook and other online portals right before the elections! lifestyle@tribunemail.com
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Of grace & poise
Her body cascaded effortlessly like silk. Lost in her own world, she was enjoying her individuality and freedom. Seemingly comfortable in her skin, she moves around with utmost grace, mesmerising the audiences, who had never imagined belly dancing to be a 'class apart' dance form. The event was a belly dance performance at Hotel Taj, Chandigarh by dancers from Kazakhstan, and it sure turned out to be a revelation for many. Belly dancing, is indeed a sensual and graceful form of dance. And we had the dancers, Nilufer Ergasheva and Farangiz share more on the same.
"If you enjoy your physicality and are comfortable with it, then belly dancing will come easy to you," puts in the duo. "Belly dancing is about enjoying your physicality as perceived by your senses," says Nilufer, who had to tell something important before she slides effortlessly to the next level of discussion. "We had an idea that people didn't think highly about belly. However, after performing here, we are pretty much assured that people like and see it as any other dance performance," adds Farangiz. Now, that the myth is cracked, the two women get back in the move. "Contrary to what people think, you don't need to have a flexible body for belly dancing. All you need is a good back," they offer. But what about sensuality in the dance form? Adds Nilufer, "Sensuality is the highly priced quality of belly dancing. And if you are comfortable with your body and can dance without inhibitions, that will give you the grace and confidence required for the dance." The ability to move fluidly like chiffon is what the dancers could describe belly dancing in a layman's language. Nevertheless, they add that there have been a number of changes in the dance form over the years. According to the duo there are two kinds of belly dancers- one who follow the modern school and others who have still managed to retain the original flavour. "We follow the traditional form. We plan to teach this form of art at the dancing school, which we plan to set up in Delhi. Belly dancing is catching up as a popular dance for, nevertheless there are certain things, which people don't know about it." Which are? "It has medicinal benefits as well. It is good for women with stomach ailments. Also, it has known to work for women who have problems in conceiving. And lastly, it is a great stress buster that rejuvenates mind and body."
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On a hot summer day…
We might hate summers for various reasons but for once let’s accept the little good that comes along. At least one positive thing about summers is it gives us a chance to enjoy water sports all the more. It’s also the reason we see all the swimming pools in the city buzzing with activity. But before you step out to take a splash in water, here are some tips to how you can do it in style. Available in the market is a range of swim gear that’s trendy and comfortable. Though there isn’t much for boys, (what all experiments do you expect from designers on a pair of shorts) the girls have a lot to look forward to. Shorts with tees, bloomers and one-piece swimwear, there’s plenty of options to choose from. Made in synthetic, (the preferred fabric as it dries in no time), swimwear is available in the market in various designs as well. “Floral prints, checks, stripes or just plain, one can pick as per the choice. The cost of the swimsuit ranges from Rs 300 to 500,” says P.S. Chawla, owner of Fairy Fashion-34. So, when you are done with choosing the perfect piece to swim, head on to pick a cap as well. This time more than style, be concerned about how to maintain the texture quality of your hair. The high chlorine content in the pool water is capable of ripping the moisture from the hair, leaving them very dry. Make sure that the plastic cap that you opt for covers your skull, hair and ears properly. In case, it doesn’t, pick a pair of earplugs. To protect your eyes from coming in direct contact with water, don’t forget to wear a pair of goggles as well. Goggles that fit well would serve the purpose best. — TNS
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Art and artists have always taken pride in getting associated with a social cause. Be it putting on canvas the environmental issues, concern for female foeticide, education for girl child, cricitising economic disparity, art has raised several questions and even have provided much sought answers. But, in a bid to portray society’s flaws, it has often forgotten to take up its own issue, “The reason we decided to conduct a workshop just for the art’s sake. Sixteen artists from North India travelled to Bir, a place in Kangra district to make sculptures in sand stone,” says Manwinder Khaira on of the artists. The ten-day workshop that concluded on June 23 saw artists make sculptures of Buddha, Ganesha, happy face and on various subjects denoting nature’s beauty. “Another aim was to make artists share a common platform to popularize art.” The same clay, sand stone has been used to construct the centuries old Baijnath temple and served as an inspiration too. Hirdyapal Singh, grandson of late artist, Sobha Singh was the guest of honour at the workshop. —TNS
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What’s common between a kindergarten class, a hi-end designer showroom and a library? Don’t rake your neurons, here’s the point—Customised furniture. Be it institutions or designer retail outlets, if you want impressive clientele, you need impressive ambience. And catering to the growing demand of customise furniture is BRV space, with launch of their new range of institutional and retail furniture line. “According to estimates, the customised furniture industry is expected to reach a growth of over 5000 crores in next five years. Keeping that in mind, we want to provide solutions to the institutional sector with a conventional approach but innovative designs as per individual requirement,” said Rajiv Khanna, head, marketing & operations. After making a mark in the retail sector with their multi brand outlets like Koutons, Big Bazaar, Ritu wears and others, BRV Space’s focus is on capturing the educational industry. “Every product needs shelf and to create those shelves we need to create some exclusivity around it. This area has seen a 100 per cent growth in the last decade, but still most of the institutional furniture is mundane, monotonous and high maintenance. We will offer sleek designs in glass, wood, steel, high on comfort, ideas that are in sync with today’s times and at less than half the cost,” adds Rajiv. — Neha Walia
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Sheer joy
It’s the transparency of a fabric that brings light into the house. And when the fabric is sheer, it sure steals the show. For a bright with an airy quality decor, summer categorically spells lighter hues, especially when one talks of curtains. Available in a wide variety, curtains in pastel hues and lighter fabrics like cotton suede, linen, organza and net are the most liked. Here are some ideas to inspire you decorate your home in a sheer fabric. “Though there are many types of sheer fabrics with various levels of translucence, this season, it is cotton, faux suede, silk and velvet curtains that are making a furnishing statement,” says Vimmy Singh, furnishing designer from Navyazari-Design Studio in Sector 34. She adds, “Earthy hues, especially water colours like sky blue, sea greens et al are in. Maroons and reds are passé, and when it comes to accessory— embroidery is in. We are doing curtains with embroidered borders, mixing fabrics, using panel of varied hues. It’s the mix and match theory that’s calling shots.” “Linen is another good choice if you’re looking for a sheer fabric. Light weight, it allows light to pass partially through it,” says fashion designer Seema Sharma from Impressions-19. She adds, “The texture and lightness of linen make it another attractive choice for curtains. But when it comes to sheer fabrics, they have a multitude of uses and can be used for decorating other things than drapery.” She cites an example, “It can be draped like mosquito net around a four poster bed for a romantic look.” Hmmm… that’s a great idea. Well, while the main purpose of a curtain is to provide privacy, block sunlight and add to the decor, translucent curtains like net curtains or sheer curtains will only block sunlight partially. So, if you are the one who’s looking for opaque curtains in a sheer fabric, silk is a good idea. Says Vimmy, “ Silk curtains are doing very well this season, but it’s not in a single hue, mix ‘n’ match of fabric and colour is there for an elegant look.” Used to increase the aesthetic appeal of a room, an elegant curtain can add class to a room and on the contrary ill matched curtain can lend a gloomy look. Says Rahul Kapoor owner, Krishna Carpets-17, “Curtains sure make a room and this season goes to sheer fabrics. In demand are the florals, stripes and embroidered patterns, but for the fabric people in this season are picking organza, pure silk organza and silk fabrics. And catering to the demand we have curtain fabric coming from Italy, Belgium and England.” In the end we can say, the choice of curtains depends on the purpose for which the curtains are being installed, but it’s the colour, fabric and style of a curtain that gives the room a formal or informal appearance. jigyasachimra@tribunemail.com
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TAROT TALK Aries: Relationships and finances highlight this week’s scenario. Don’t let misunderstanding seep into a relationship. Job satisfaction can be increased if you decide to be more independent and entrepreneurial in everything you do. Friday is best for business and partnership. Tip of the week: Be cautious in your action and speech. Lucky colour: Olive. Taurus: The Leo card in tarot pack lends you strength. Its best not to have great expectations or you could be disappointed. Though social stars are bright, there is a vague chance that certain people will indulge in backbiting. Surprise and unexpected happiness is on the cards. Do not take partners for granted. Tip: Try a new off beat style of handling things. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Gemini: Life offers you an empty canvas to paint your own picture. A major accomplishment on short trips is on the cards. You may get some opposition on Sunday. Things may not be as they sound. Focus on yoga, meditation and light exercise. Tip: Unfinished business will unleash new problems. Lucky colour: Scarlet. Cancer: Something that looks negative on the surface turns out to be a blessing in disguise. Avoid confrontation on Monday. You have to change your lifestyle. Tip: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: Black. Leo: There is a mixed bag of up and down throughout this week. Be careful, as you are prone to losing your temper with loved ones. Spending time with your partner is a priority. A Sagittarius is supportive. Tip: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power. Lucky colour: Pale yellow. Virgo: This is a time for you to shine! You have extra energy and confidence and will make strong impression on others. You will dazzle everyone if you put yourself in the mainstream. This is a perfect time to entertain or to let others entertain you. Tip: Now is the need to question the value judgment. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Libra: Take a definite step towards a new business venture. Sharks in government or customs department swallow much of your money this week, in case your business requires dealings with either. A surprise phone call on Monday could put you back in touch with a friend you have not seen for a long time. Tip: Change the status quo both at work and relationships by voicing your feelings. Lucky colour: Brick red. Scorpio: You are gifted with the magic of communication in physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects. You may miss an important opportunity so be alert. You torture yourself endlessly by thinking negatively and imagining the worst. Be ready to offer praise and thanks wherever deserved. Meditation and introspection takes you towards inner peace. Tip: Enjoy your dreams Lucky colour: Green. Sagittarius: Something that looks negatives on the surface turns out to be a blessing in disguise. Avoid confrontation on Monday. Gain through travel to exotic or mysterious locations is on the cards. Tip: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: Orange. Capricorn: Don’t waste time counting pennies this week. Look at the overall cost of things and try to balance your budget. A Scorpio person influences your decision and moves in a progressive direction. Your soul mate will be appreciative of your efforts. Tip: Be articulate to prevent people for making their own conclusion. Lucky colour: creamy white. Pisces: Work pressures would continue to build leaving you with little time for anything else. Weigh the pros and cons before making any decisions. Be creative and sensitive to gain inner balance and outer harmony. Tip: Be determined and increase your self-confidence, which will be on trial. Lucky colour: Golden brown.
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More than 100 Facebook pages have been created in honour of Neda Agha-Soltan, who was shot and killed during clashes in Tehran. They include at least 103 groups and 15 fan pages with more than 15000 members.
