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TOOLhardy
All hail, the Hindu God of Architecture! So, what are you bowing your heads for? Stethoscope or screwdriver? Does it matter? The ultimate designer, the absolute draftsman, the official builder of the universe, the presiding deity of all the craftsmen! For the uninitiated, it was the Vishwakarma Day, a day when we worship what we owe our existence to the other 364 days, a day when the entire blue-collared brigade has a day off. We twist and turn our reverence a bit, ask the young and all the rest, what would be one thing they'd worship, strictly foolishly and frivolously speaking.
"On a serious note, being an arts student, I would definitely worship my brushes, my paints, the palette and the plate, because that's what I owe my existence to and entire being to," Ashish Kumar pays his obeisance to the Lord. Isn't serious obvious? Put aside the cliché. He laughs, "Then it would be my guitar. I have been learning it for three to four months and it's my addiction these days." We can imagine several of his ilk indulging in rock star style, daredevil devotion drama with all strings attached. "I would like to worship my cell phone, because that's what I owe my entire day to, it gets me in touch with my boyfriend, parents, siblings, strangers what not," Kanupriya Mahajan, BSc, IT student, is clear on a couple of things. She shrugs, "It's one tool which gets me in touch with the world, one tool I use 24/7, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, why wouldn't I worship it?" Going by the 'in-touch logic', it's time someone spelled Internet. Wouldn't server be the soul of Gods, Google the new Bible and Wikipedia, the God's vehicle? There's another one toeing the line, from the new-found religion of technology, "I'd like to worship my laptop, it has everything in it, my entire personal, professional life, social life," says Charvi Batra, University Institute of Engineering and Technology student. Oh yeah, how could anyone miss that? Desktops, laptops, notebooks, PCs…the religious rocks, the carved Gods in the temple of technology. Another soul worships, or at least whispers… "I would like to pay obeisance to my ATM card, the ultimate tool to withdraw money, may its balance grow by leaps and bounds, I only wish something magical happens and it never ceases to supply me dough even if there's none in my account…" How wacky can wacky get, how bold can bold be? Raj Thakur, didn't really have to rack his brains, "Well, it would be a beer bottle, and c'mon, for obvious reasons," adds the English Department, Panjab University student. A rash brash young beer lover had once said, 'It makes you feel one with God, cause after you've had bottoms up and downed a couple of drinks you cannot lie, you're completely honest, cannot deceive anyone.' He adds, "To some extent, I agree to that philosophy." Anyone in bash abashed mode? manpriya@tribunemail.com |
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God of small beings
Racism in Australia, religious discrimination, minority issues — what all we, human race, have to go through! And when we, good Samaritans, during those drawing-room talks, condemn such pettiness, and embrace universalism because God is one, little do we realise that Mr Hydes in us has spread discrimination of sorts in the divinity too. Let me explain how. Look at the importance we have accorded to the members of the Trimurti — Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. While one comes across temples of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva almost everywhere, Brahma temples are few and far between. The one I have been privileged enough to see is at Pushkar in Rajasthan. The reason? Lord Brahma, the creator, has already done his job. Lord Vishnu, the maintainer or the preserver is more important and so is Lord Shiva, the destroyer or transformer. We have to keep them in good humour. If you are still looking for examples, just look back. On Saturday we celebrated Diwali, worshipped Goddess Lakshmi with such fervour. We made rangoli at home, did puja and received and sent divine SMSes like ‘May God shower all Laxmi on U this Diwali’ by the dozen. But on Sunday, when it was the turn of Lord Vishwakarma, we pleaded fatigue and did just a hurried aarti to the Lord to bless us. No wishes, no SMSes. The reason? We, the human race, even after mastering the art of making money, still need to on the good side of Goddess Lakshmi and plead for her blessings. When it comes to money, no sir, we don’t want to take a chance! As for Vishwakarma, though the industrial areas in Patiala showed fervour that appeared in form of kadi-chawal for one and sundry, there was something lurking behind the surface. What? It did not take us long to figure out. The impending tussle between employees and employers! Vishwakarma decided to come on a wrong day. Had it not been a Sunday, the employees of various industrial units would have gotten a day off. How can Vishwakarama, who is described in the Mahabharata as ‘The lord of the arts, executor of a thousand handicrafts, the carpenter of the gods, the most eminent of artisans, the fashioner of all ornaments...." can do to his devotees? However, the employees’ loss is employers’ gain. If Vishwakarma Day fell on a Sunday, that’s about it. No chutti in lieu of that. And, for the major shareholder of Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings, it is the employers brigade who has the ultimate say in the matter. Didn’t we tell you when the Creator endowed mankind with grey cells, little did He know that those cells would concoct ways to get around Him? If we didn’t, we are telling you now! parbina@tribunemail.com
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Progress report
Music is a pulsating and progressive phenonmenon that keeps revitalizing its glory with the growth of life while accommodating the alien influences and changes, both for and against its traditional concepts and structures. "Such inevitable transformations or modifications must not be condemned since these are necessitated by the intrinsic dynamism of music itself to cater to the growing cultural needs of any individuals in India or in the world. But one favouring a pristine traditional purity is at liberty not to fall prey to the changing scenario," opines noted classical vocalist Arvind Sharma, an academician, scholar and performer. While his elder son Aditya Sharma, an accomplished classical vocalist has won the coveted scholarship of ITC's Sangeet Research Academy, Kolkata, while his younger son Adamya has chosen to be rock star. Born and brought up in the serene musical family environment where drones of taanpura, melody of singing strings and tabla beats provided him regular accompaniment, Arvind was initiated into music by his illustrious father guru Pandit Ramesh Chander Datta, Founder Department of music at PU and Gandharav Maha Vidyalya in city. As ordained Arvind Sharma, who carved a niche for himself in music, rose to head and later teach at the same department at PU. Holding a doctorate in music Dr Arvind Sharma claims to have many successful concerts to his credit. Recently awarded the Haryana Kala Vibhuti Sanman by Sanskar Bharti but his quest for learning inspired him to be in the tutelage of Gwalior Gharana doyen Pandit LK Pandit. He rues the exploitation of trained but low paid music lecturers by private colleges and institutions, which is a discouraging indeed. However, contrary to the family legacy young Adamya Sharma, has opted for an all together diverse of Western classical and symphony music. Presently doing Masters in Vocal classical music from PU, he has learnt systematic Indian classical music since childhood and completed graduation (Madhyama) in vocal, Tabla and Western classical instrumental on Spanish guitar, his first love. He has recently cleared the fourth grade with distinction from the Western London School of Music Delhi. He specialises in progressive rock and symphonies of legends like John Petruchy, Andy Mekee and more established bands. Adamya has been leading the Part Time Angles group in Tri city. Holding his costly seven stringed Ibanez make Spanish guitar, the confident Adamya Sharma feels that endowed with a sound knowledge of Indian classical music, he can imbibe the best nuances of complex western solos besides creating his own compositions. Not sitting on past laurels and immaculate performances, especially solos Adamya, charged with optimism is all determined to augment his achievements through hard work, strenuous riyaz and blessings of his father guru Dr Arvind Sharma.
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Of two duds and some madness!
Johnson Thomas It’s Diwali and the audience has been eagerly awaiting Bollywood’s biggest dhamakas this festive season. Unfortunately, they have a great deal of disappointment in store for them. None of the films released this Diwali have anything great going for them. Blue starring Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Zayed Khan, Lara Dutta and Katrina Kaif, directed by Anthony D’souza is likely to sink under the weight of gargantuan audience expectations. Main aur Mrs. Khanna starring Kareena Kapoor, Salman Khan and Sohail Khan with Deepika in a guest appearance, directed by Prem Soni is also likely to suffer the same fate. Only All the best an Ajay Devgan home production, starring Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgan, Fardeen Khan, Bipasha Basu and Mugda Godse, directed by Rohit Shetty is likely to create a few waves at the box-office. Mind you, the three films have had huge advertising budgets, the pre-release publicity was a blitzkrieg and the films have been released in multiple screens in every center big and small, hoping to cash in on the Himalayan expectations. Hindi filmakers must release that hope and advertising alone cannot bring in the moolah. It may have worked in the beginning but today, audiences have become smarter and they prefer to enjoy a bigger bang for their hard-earned buck. Feeling Blue
Blue, which began as a great idea, ‘an exciting underwater action thriller’ends up as a ‘travel and living’ scenery hog. It’s been shot in Thailand and the Bahamas. The cinematography is breathtaking no doubt but there is practically no story to tell. Even the actors prefer to pursue their stylistic goals than to display their acting chops. Their roles are badly written and their dialogues sound ludicrous. Sanjay Dutt looks like he just woke-up from a hangover and did not know what he was doing. His timing is off and he looks clueless. Akshay Kumar looked preppy- and he seems to have jumped wholeheartedly into upping his style quotient. But that’s not to say he was stylishly dressed. His sense of colour and style are far too loud and garish to appear desirable. Lara Dutta looked sleek and beautiful but she really did not have anything to do and Katrina Kaif (in a brief role) appears sluggish and uninterested. Her dialogue delivery in the film is singularly off-putting. Anthony D’souza has no idea of how to make a film. From the way this film plays out, it would be a fair guess to say that the stars were lined-up on the basis of the concept and the story (if there was one) was written much later. Even A.R. Rahman’s music for the film is singularly unexciting. Blue is a washout in the true sense! Married to medoicre
Main Aur Mrs Khanna takes – off quite well. It’s about how marriage can sour-up ambitions and the relationship angle on display is a pretty modern take. Much of what transpires on screen happens at the airport. In fact, the basic premise is similar to Salman’s earlier Shaadi Karke Phas Gaya Yaar only the setting is different. Kareena plays Raina Khanna, wife of Salman (Samir) who abandons her at the airport, to pursue his ambitions while Sohail plays Akash, the guy whose lust for Raina creates a few complications in her quest for independence. Men are beasts and they treat their wives with condescension, I agree, but shouldn’t there have been a more valid reason for abandoning your wife? And Samir is supposed to have picked Raina from an orphanage to boot. Here too the script is underdeveloped and there are several moments in the film that appear stagey and lackluster. The narrative is quite unbecoming- structured in amateurish fashion with very little scope for a soaring passion play, which it could have otherwise generated. Prem Soni is unable to create a single credible moment in the film. I guess he did not have much choice with the Khan brothers calling all the shots. The music is mainly borrowed stuff- nothing extra-ordinary. The acting is also a weak-link. Granted the roles were shoddily written but the actors could have improvised. They have done innumerable films between them. What does all that experience add-up to? Just looking pretty certainly cannot do it all! Best of the lot!
All the best is the sure winner mainly because the competition lost the plot even before the race. It’s not a well-written film by any means and neither does it have an original idea to boast of. Rohit Shetty’s narration is unabashed about it’s inspiration- Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Golmaal and Chupke Chupke and also admits to mixing the plotlines with Right Bed Wrong Husband, so once again we are not looking at original stuff. But beggars can’t be choosers- at least there is some humour in the madness that transpires on screen. The plot is quite convoluted. Identity mix-ups, pretend partner swapping, engaging comedy tracks and a reenergized Johnny Lever make for an entertaining repast. All the actors are quite energetic and seem to have enjoyed this romp and it shows. There are brief glimpses of brilliance from Devgan but more often than not his fires are banked. Not much is expected of him and what he lends to the enterprise apart from the money is quietly becoming. The story has it’s implausible moments but retains connectedness mainly because Rohit Shetty’s narrative is assured. The unnecessary schlock moments are few and the slapstick underlined by sitcom-like byplays generate enough laughs to keep you rooted to your seats. This film is not likely to blow your mind but it will certainly make you cackle unreservedly! |
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Comic take
The dusky beauty from Kolkata and sexy bomb-shell, Bipasha Basu is back to scorch the silver-screen in a comic caper, All the Best a rib-tickling comedy produced by Ajay Devgan and directed by Rohit Shetty. This comedy of errors sure seems to be the perfect Diwali treat for audiences who have been eagerly waiting for a good comic movie. Bipasha plays the role of Jhanvi, who takes care of the age-old gym owned by the family. Tell us what the film is about? It is a sitcom. A complete comedy of errors. According to you, what makes a comedy work? Great chemistry with the actors, a capable director and good editing are ingredients of a good comic movie. As an actor you have to be spontaneous. Unlike, in emotional scenes where you can build up emotions in retakes, you cannot rehearse a comic scene too often, because the fun element is lost. Your chemistry with the co-stars? I have worked before with Ajay in Zameen, Apharan and Shikhar. He is a fantastic actor and slipping into any role is effortless for him. Sanjay Dutt has a great comic timing as well. Mughda Godse and Fardeen Khan are extremely great co-actors to work with. What’s your preference in comedy? I do not prefer slapstick comedy. I prefer sitcoms. When I heard the narration of All the Best I had the same feeling I got for ‘No Entry’ and that is why I immediately agreed to do it. What made you choose this particular film? Well, I always wanted to work with director Rohit Shetty and I also know Ajay Devgan since he was producing. Both are very capable and I knew I would be in good hands. What are your expectations from ‘All the best’? I have great expectations from the film. I have contributed my hundred percent and rest is for the audience to decide! —Dharam Pal
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Jai ho!
Bollywood choreographer Longinus Fernandes, who gained worldwide recognition thanks to the iconic anthem Jai Ho worked with superstar Julia Roberts in her upcoming project Eat Pray Love and he has only one word to describe the Pretty Woman, "down to earth". The choreographer who won a Filmfare Award in 2009 for the distinctive moves he lent to the superhit song Pappu Can't Dance, says he has worked with many stars but never met someone as graceful as the Notting Hill star. "I was introduced to her and she told me that she was proud to be working with me as she had loved Jai Ho. That was the ultimate compliment I could have received. I have worked with many stars but I have never met a more graceful, down to earth person," Longinus said.She added, “Roberts does not have a dance sequence in the film, her very presence on the set made a difference. There is a scene where Julia is attending an Indian wedding and there is plenty of dancing. I choreographed the sequence. Julia is just an onlooker and does not dance but she has an amazing presence and can stand out even in a chaotic crowd.” Fernandes began his career in Bollywood as a back-up dancer in the 1990's and choreographed many superhit songs like Jaanleva' from Moksha and Adnan Sami's Lift Kara De, but Danny Boyle changed it all. The British director while accepting his Oscar for 'Best Director' made special mention of Fernandes and said sorry for missing out his name in the credits. Longinus Fernandes suddenly became the most sought after name in the world of dancing, with everyone from Pussy Cat Dolls to the top Bollywood directors wanting to work with him. "Pussy Cat Dolls had wanted me to choreograph their remix version of Jai Ho, but I was busy with the work on Bollywood Hero, an American mini series. Then I became the first ever Indian to win the Astaire award, which is like the Oscars for choreographers and I think I really need to thank Dannny Boyle for a lot of it," said Fernandes.Longinus competed against world renowned names like Kenny Ortega (High School Musical 3) and Anthony Van Laast (Mamma Mia) to win the award and said that the achievement was a sign of the international popularity gained by the Bollywood school of dancing. "Bollywood dancing is the next big thing in international choreography. From TV shows like So You Think You Can Dance to clubs, our style is everywhere. For years everyone in India emulated the moves of the West and now the opposite is happening," said Fernandes. — PTI
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Actors are known for frequently changing costumes in their films, but Abhishek Bachchan shot 90 per cent of his upcoming film Paa dressed in a single costume. Bachchan also didn't mind the limited wardrobe he has in the movie. "It was a welcome change to not have so many different costumes. And most importantly it was the requirement of the film," he said. Paa, scheduled to release on December 4, is a sensitive story about the relationship between a father and son who is suffering from progeria. The movie stars Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan and Vidya Balan. — PTI
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Playful moments
In the words of John Gassner, theater is one great medium of expression – a comprehensive art that is inalienable from civilization. The Indian theatre, however, retains more strong social activism for expressing and debating issues of socio-cultural relevance more directly to audiences than other form of arts, the fact which accounts for the grand success of eight editions of Rashtirya Natya Parv,” says K.K. Khandelwal, director, Public Relations, Haryana. Keeping up with the earlier tradition the ninth annual National Theatre Fest (Rashtriya Natya Parv), jointly organised by the NCZCC Allahabad, NZCC Patiala, and Department of Information and Public Relations, Haryana, too brings seven classic plays by eminent thespians of India to the delight of art lovers of tricity, adds Khandelwal. The festival opens at Tagore Theatre on Monday, October 19 and concludes on October 25. “All art lovers are welcome to relish the week long theatrical bonanza,” says Bhal Singh Balhara, project director. Here are the brief details of the presentations. October 19: The Rang Vidushak, Bhopal to stage dramatisation of five short stories authored by Rajesh Joshi and directed by Uday Shahane. October 20: Ham Safar, a play by Mumbai-based theatre group NS Communications gives an unusal dimension to marital relationships. The play is written by Javed Siddiqi, designed and directed by Salim Arif. October 21: Yet another genre Nautanki styled folk play Phool Nautanki Vilas will transport audience to the diverse ambience that of royal kingdom of Premnagar. Abhay Sinha directs the play for Prangan from Patna. October 22: The Mumbai-based drama ensemble Mandla to stage their production Lalded under the direction of Meeta Vashishst. October 23: Allahabad-based Backstage theatre is all set to stage Hawalaat. Sarveshavar Dyal Sinha directs the play in which poems by Kedar Nath Aggarwal hold a special significance. October 24: Natak Aur Mein, a classic play by Bikaner-based Anurag Kala Kendra not only defines the internal psychological conflicts and external pressures on human mind but also excavates truth through the play. The play is directed by Sudesh Vyas. October 25: The festival concludes with the presentation of a play Pop Corn by Jabalpur-based Samagam Rang Mandal group under the direction of Ashish Pathak.
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up Scent-sational Shahnaz Husain Fragrances are part of grooming. They also evoke romance and sensuality and are the most luxurious of the aids that we use for grooming. Perfumes put the finishing touch to grooming and help to add that X-factor – whether it is femininity, sensuality or individuality. In fact, the market for perfumes is not only vast, but some of them constitute the most expensive among grooming aids. Perfumes can be derived from natural sources, like flowers, citrus fruits, sandalwood and other woody essential oils. A natural perfume can be obtained by blending essential oils of such aromatic plants. You can try blending two or three different oils and choose the blend, which appeals to you the most. It is also important to bear in mind that essential oils are different from pressed oils like coconut, almond, or olive oil. Pressed oils are called carrier oils. Remember that essential oils cannot be used against the skin by themselves and must be added to waters or a carrier (pressed) oil. While experimenting with essential oils, it is important to understand the potency. You can use essential oils of rose, sandalwood, orange flower (neroli), lavender, lemon, to prepare blends. Adding a citrus oil, like lemon oil, to the blend is a good idea. Citrus oils have a refreshing effect and are good as summer fragrances. Some essential oils are fixatives and are, in fact, used in the perfume industry. Including one of these can help to keep the perfume stable and delay evaporation of the other essential oils. Sandalwood oil is one of the best- known fixatives. Glycerin can also be used as a fixative. While blending essential oils, it is important to keep the dosages low initially. These can always be increased later as you learn more about them. Remember that the actual fragrance emerges about 20 minutes after application and they have a lot to do with individual body chemistry. Another way of using natural fragrances is to put a few drops on a tissue or small piece of cotton wool. Tuck it in your clothes. You can also make your own fragrance quite simply. Take two cups of water and add one cup of chopped rose petals. Place a clean cloth in a bowl with the edges hanging out. Pour the water over this. Cover and leave it overnight. The next day pull out the cloth with the flowers and squeeze the water into another smaller vessel. Simmer this water over a low fire till only one teaspoon is left. Cool and keep in a small bottle. This perfume will keep for a month. Most of the perfumes that we buy are synthetic blends. They may also contain essential oils, which are blended with synthetic ingredients. Perfumes that are created are all about ‘notes’ and is a delicate balancing of different notes. In other words it is made up of different fragrances, obtained from different sources. The ‘top note’ is the first fragrance you get when you smell the perfume. The ‘middle note’ can be smelt after wearing the perfume for a while, so that it dries on your skin and begins to mix with individual body chemistry. The ‘base note’ is the fragrance which lingers. Synthetic blends were evolved due to the controversy surrounding the killing of animals like civet and musk deer to obtain scents. The world’s best perfumes are synthetic blends and are actually very effective. Many perfumers believe that the modern synthetic blends are actually better than ones derived from natural sources. In fact, some of them are much more expensive. To select the right perfume, one needs to know a few facts. Body chemistry is important, as the effect may depend on individual body odour. That is why it is best to try out the perfume on one’s own skin. The exact fragrance of a perfume is apparent only when it comes in contact with the skin. Just smelling perfumes does not help. In fact, smelling too many different perfumes can confuse the olfactory system. Climate also plays a part in choosing the right perfume. In hot and humid conditions, it is better to go for light and fresh fragrances. The effect of perfumes intensifies in hot and humid weather. A heavy perfume can be quite overpowering. In fact, some perfumes can even trigger off a headache in some individuals. In cold and dry weather, a heavier scent can be used. Lemon, rose, lavender or sandalwood are light and refreshing during hot weather. The time of day also matters. Go for light fragrances in the morning and heavier ones for the night. Colognes and toilet waters can be used during the day and also be added to bath water. Colognes and Eau de Toilette constitute mainly of water, or a mixture of alcohol and water, with only 2 to 5 per cent perfume. They are lighter and the fragrance evaporates, leaving a light lingering fragrance. But, when it comes to perfumes, they should be used sparingly. Apply just a drop or two of perfume on the pulse points.
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Miracles of meditation
Imagine if there were no gyms, no treadmills, ab benches or weights even. Before the gym loyalists start showing symptoms of hypertension, let’s inform them that they still would be able to keep fit. How else do you think our older generations maintained their health? They had no posh fitness centres then, with the best of the exercising equipment, where best of music was played and had glitterati as members. Still, they were fit and all it took them to be so was meditation. The ancient fitness formula of meditation if practiced in the required way still has the same benefits. And as against the general perception, meditation not just improves our clarity of mind also positively affects our physiological being. Anil Juneja, Yoga expert, FnY Studio explains further, “Our psychological and physiological fitness are co-related. Meditation brings stability in our behaviour and nature, which in turn helps us prevent psycho somatic disorders.” Meditation can help improve the digestive system, cure migraine and rectify hormonal imbalance. It can also amount to weight loss without indulging in strenuous physical activity. “Meditation helps one have better control over oneself. Craving for food becomes less after regular meditation, which helps one keep fit,” adds Anil. Also, it is the best cure for stress and hypertension, which are the most common lifestyle disorders. “Stress and hypertension can further lead to aggravated health problems like depression and heart attack, (being the worst case scenario). Also, one can take to binge eating to counter stress, resulting in weight gain,” informs Anoop Debnath, yoga and aerobics instructor, Ozone. He then specifies the advantages of meditation, “It is the most convenient cure of lifestyle diseases. You needn’t exhaust yourself by doing exercises or take medication. Regular meditation cures hormonal imbalance, calms down the nervous system and channelise our energy, which in turn keep us physically fit as well.” Yog Nidra, a meditation process even if done for a mere five minutes replenishes and rejuvenates body energy levels. “Yog nidra relaxes the whole body and makes one feel fresh and physically stronger,” explains Kulwant Yogi, a yoga expert. Meditation also helps improve concentration. It basically involves a few breathing exercises. Nalini Mahajan, a city based yoga expert tells us how meditation can improve our physical well being, “Meditation is highly beneficial for students as it aids improving concentration levels. One doesn’t have to spend extra time to grasp the same thing again and again.” ashima@tribunemail.com
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Work and workouts
Television actor Manav Vij of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Mitwa fame shares his fitness secrets and diet plans.
Fitness mantra: Eat right at the right time and you will not need to make any extra efforts to keep fit. Also fitness is not how you look, it is how you feel. Fitness regime: I don’t go for gymmin; instead do yoga ten days a month, which I feel is more beneficial. Rest of the days, I go for jogging for an hour every morning. I make it a point to carry weights to the shooting. In whatever little time I get between shooting two scenes, I exercise with weights. Diet: I begin my day with a heavy breakfast. Body needs a good dose of carbohydrates in the morning since we take meals after a time gap of eight to nine hours. In the rest of the day, I take very light diet as is planned by my dietician. Fantasy food: Given a choice, I would daily gorge on typical Punjabi food. Sarson ka saag and dal makhni would then be a part of my daily diet. Sleeping hours: A sound sleep for six-seven hours is a must for me. Anymore sleep than this leaves me lethargic. Best body celeb: Akshay Kumar is a great inspiration for anybody who wants to be fit. Also I think Gurdas Mann has amazing fitness levels, considering his age. He still can give live performances for over three hours, which requires lot stamina. Weight watch: Sunny Deol has off late put on a lot of weight. I think he needs to tone down before making a sound come back.
— Ashima Sehajpal |
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The much-touted naturally produced molecule called resveratrol, found in red wine, may help squeeze out diabetes, says a new study. In the study, resveratrol has been shown to lower insulin levels in mice when injected directly into the brain, even when the animals ate a high-fat diet. The findings from a new UT Southwestern Medical Center study suggest that when acting directly on certain proteins in the brain, resveratrol may offer some protection against diabetes. Earlier research has shown that resveratrol exerts anti-diabetic actions when given orally to animals with type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus), but it has been unclear which tissues in the body mediated these effects. "Our study shows that the brain plays an important role in mediating resveratrol's anti-diabetic actions, and it does so independent of changes in food intake and body weight," said Dr. Roberto Coppari, assistant professor of internal medicine at UT Southwestern and senior author of the study appearing online and in the December issue of Endocrinology. "These animals were overrun with fat and many of their organs were inflamed. But when we delivered resveratrol in the brain, it alleviated inflammation in the brain," added Coppari. However, Coppari emphasized that his study does not support the conclusion that consuming products made from red grapes could alleviate diabetes. "The main reason is that resveratrol does not cross the blood brain barrier efficiently," he said. "In order for the brain to accumulate the same dose of resveratrol delivered in our study, the amounts of red wine needed daily would surely cause deleterious effects, especially in the liver. Rather, our study suggests that resveratrol's analogs that selectively target the brain may help in the fight against diet-induced diabetes," he added. For the study, the researchers investigated what happens when resveratrol acts only in the brain. Specifically, they wanted to know whether resveratrol injected in the brain activated a group of proteins called sirtuins, which are found throughout the body and thought to underlie many of the beneficial effects of calorie restriction. The researchers injected resveratrol directly into the brain; another group received a saline-based placebo. All the surgically treated animals consumed a high-fat diet before and after the surgery. Coppari said the insulin levels of the animals treated with the placebo solution rose increasingly higher post-surgery.
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No emancipation this!
The cigarette ads in the 60s, declared — 'You've come a long way, baby!' Advertising and movies not just made it acceptable for women to smoke but also promoted smoking as a potent symbol of their emancipation. But today, smoking-related illness among women and teenage girls is what making news. All smokers, irrespective of gender, suffer the consequences of smoking such as increased cancer risk of the lung, mouth, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, kidney, pancreas, kidney, and bladder and respiratory diseases. However, there are numerous smoking-related health risks, which are unique to women like “osteoporosis”. According to Dr Neelam Aggarwal, senior consultant in the Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, PGI, “Smoking contributes to the development of osteoporosis or bone density loss. Women are particularly at risk after menopause.” She says, estrogen, produced by the ovaries gradually keeps calcium in the bones. After menopause, the ovaries produce less estrogen and the loss of calcium from the bone increases. Smoking is harmful to the ovaries and can result in a drop in estrogen.” Smokers can have earlier menopause resulting in an earlier estrogen drop. Smoking also affects the glands that regulate calcium levels in the body, she adds. Dr Aggarwal explains, "It is the tragic triad of women suffering from osteoporosis stress, leading to smoking which in turn causes metabolic disorders leading to osteoporosis. Also improper diet, inadequate calcium intake, inadequate exposure to sunshine, decreased Vitamin D, deliveries and lack of regular exercise are all contributory to the process of osteoporosis. Bone formation is less after 30. After menopause, there is highest breakdown of bone tissue — no osteoblasts (bone forming cells) increased osteoclasts (bone destroying cells) leading to increased osteoporosis." She adds, "In addition to weaker bones the process of repair in case of fractures is also affected." How to slow down osteoporosis: There are a number of lifestyle factors that can help.
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Getting regular exercise, especially weight-bearing and muscle strengthening exercise.
w Getting adequate vitamin D, whether through diet, exposure to sunshine, or supplements.
w Consuming enough calcium.
w Consuming adequate Vitamin K, found in green-leafy vegetables. There is evidence that drinking a lot of coffee, about four or more cups per day, can increase the risk of fracture. Caffeine tends to promote calcium excretion in urine. Getting too much protein can leach calcium from your bones. As your body digests protein, it releases acids into the bloodstream, which the body neutralises by drawing calcium from the bones. Animal protein seems to cause more of this calcium leaching than vegetable protein does. Don’t take more of Vitamin A. Preformed Vitamin A can promote fractures. Vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene does not increase one's fracture risk. |
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Nortriptyline, a popular antidepressant, causes a ten-fold increase in suicidal thoughts in men when compared to its competitor escitalopram, a new study has found. Published in the open access journal BMC Medicine, the research was carried out by Dr. Nader Perroud from the Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, who headed up GENDEP, an international team. Perroud said: "Suicidal thoughts and behaviours during antidepressant treatment have prompted warnings by regulatory bodies". He continued: "the aim of our study was to investigate the emergence and worsening of suicidal thoughts during treatment with two different types of antidepressant." Both escitalopram and nortriptyline have their effect through the mood modulating neurotransmitter systems. The former is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), preventing serotonin from re-entering the cell and thereby prolonging its effect on nerve synapses. The latter is a tricyclic antidepressant that inhibits the reuptake of noradrenaline, and to a lesser extent, that of serotonin.The study was carried out on 811 individuals with moderate to severe unipolar depression. "The study also refutes the idea that newer antidepressants such as the SSRIs are worse than older medications in terms of increasing suicidal thoughts." — ANI
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wise Sleeping fit Sachin Kalra If you want to lose weight, get more sleep. Getting little sleep on a regular basis can make it difficult to lose weight and may increase your risk for obesity. Although we burn more calories when we are awake than when we are asleep, we also eat more during those extra hours we are awake. Also, the more sleep deprived a person is; the less active he or she becomes. This results in less exercise, which leads ultimately, to weight gain. Losing sleep alters your metabolism and this sets the stage for weight gain. When people get less sleep than they should, this affects a number of different hormones, which affect metabolism thereby affecting appetite and therefore weight. It may all have to do with two hormones – Grehlin and Leptin. Sleep deprivation lowers the levels of leptin and raises levels of grehlin. Grehlin, is an appetite-stimulating hormone released mostly by the stomach and its higher levels make people feel hungry. Leptin, a satiety or fullness hormone is released by the fat cells and tells the brain about the current energy balance of the body. Lower leptin levels; signal the brain that the body is starving. This in turn causes increased cravings for fat, starch and salt. This hormonal imbalance leads to weight gain and obesity. Also, when we don’t get enough sleep, our thyroid level rises, making it harder for the body to efficiently burn calories. Less sleep is also linked to a higher body mass index, which typically correlates with excessive body fat. Sleep needs vary from person to person, but in adults it’s seven to nine hours a night. Anything less than that can lead to obesity. However, there are some people who can do with less, and others who need more. The main objective is to get up feeling refreshed and totally relaxed. Tips for a good night’s rest: Regularize your sleep and wake-up patterns : Try to sleep and get up at the same time every day. Set the alarm, regardless of how much you slept during the night. This helps your body acquire a constant sleep-wake rhythm. You should also avoid naps, unless you usually take one. Create a restful sleeping abode- Keep the room quiet, dark, and cool so as to create a restful atmosphere. Use the bed only for sleeping; do not read or watch TV while in your bed. Exercise daily: Exercise will help you fall asleep faster and sleep longer than if you don't exercise at all. However avoid strenuous exercise within three hours of bedtime, or you'll be too energized to fall asleep. Use your relaxation skills: Learn to de-stress yourself before you lie down to sleep. If you have worries on your mind, you are not going to fall asleep. Try deep breathing, visual relaxation techniques, a hot water bath or whatever works best for you. Foods to avoid: Avoid eating heavy or spicy meal before bedtime as it can cause heartburn. Try to eat your last meal at least 3 hours before bedtime. Don’t have caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, all of which can interfere with sleep. Don't try too hard: If you’re still not asleep after being in bed for 30 minutes, get up and get out of bed. Don’t force yourself to sleep. Do something that will calm you such as reading, until you feel drowsy. Try to stay awake until your eyes start to close involuntarily. Don't watch the clock, the more you focus on not sleeping, the less likely you are to sleep. There is no denying that improved sleep quality goes together with weight management. And this sleep/eating connection to weight gain gives us an important tool to prevent obesity. kalrasachin@hotmail.com
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TAROT TALK ARIES: The six of cups blesses you new beginnings, ventures, ideas and projects. Focusing on what you want from the future is something that you would be doing in this week. At work, there would be additional responsibility, which would give you a sense of authority. Tip of the week: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses. Lucky Colour: Golden yellow. TAURUS: The Prince of Wands shows this would be quite a hectic week since there may be some additional responsibilities and duties coming your way, especially, on the home front. Housewives would remain on their toes and there may be some unexpected guests. Tip: Listen carefully to words of wisdom even if you do not relish. Lucky colour: White. GEMINI: Six of Swords reveals there may be some minor glitches in your plans this week and you would need to be flexible and open to change. In your personal and professional relationships, communication would play a key role, hence, be careful about your words. Tip: Don’t waste an opportunity by not exploiting a contact even if it is from your past. Lucky Colour: Golden. CANCER: The Wheel of Fortune spins in some good fortune and emotional abundance. The main focus this week would be the feelings of love, affection, romance and relationships. Those of you with children would tend to concentrate on them while those who are in relationships would feel greater warmth and closeness than ever before. Tip: Don’t be bullied into accepting situations you dislike. Lucky Colour: Pink LEO: The Queen of Cups says you would enter this week raring to go and filled with strength and stamina. As a result, you would be able to accomplish a lot more. In relationships, you would be sensitive yet assertive and would express yourself much better. Tip: Frankness and ability to state the truth are your strong points. Lucky colour: Red. VIRGO: You draw The Moon, so rumors and gossip in office would take up most of your time and attention this week. While you may be a good listener and take in everybody’s views, it is important that you do not become judgmental about others and vocal about your own feelings. Give your loved ones the appreciation and love that they truly deserve. Tip: Consolidate your gains instead of throwing security to the winds. Lucky Colour: Brick Red. LIBRA: Your card The Universe reveals professional endeavors could be the focus of this week and many of you would either get new jobs or make progress in your current roles. The week would also, be favorable for business alliances and dealings. Be very careful when signing anything financial. Tip: Try to be active in catching financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Jade. SCORPIO: You draw The World this would be a week of surprises and changes, so you would have many things to do. It is also, important to take good care of your health and well being since it would increase your energy and stamina. Extra expenses may cause a dent in your budget. There may be some traveling for pleasure around the weekend. Tip: Have faith in yourself. Lucky colour: Peacock green. SAGITTARIUS: Ten of Pentacles bode extremely well for relationship and romance. This would be a favorable week to enroll for new courses, seminars, conferences and the like, since you would be in the mood to learn and also, do some traveling. At home, spending time with family members would bring you closer. Tip: Watch your action at work and polish your public relation skills. Lucky colour: Earthy browns CAPRICORN: You draw Knight of Pentacles is an indication that you would be brimming with creativity, productive ideas and a lot of enthusiasm. A good week to use those grey cells to your advantage in all professional endeavors. In relationships, be perceptive and take out time to help a friend or relative. Tip: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky Colour: Emerald green. AQUARIUS: The Wheel of Fortune spins in some good fortune. This would be quite an eventful week for most of you. The arrangement of the planets would be most favorable to students and those seeking jobs. This may also, be an expensive week for some of you. Moreover, avoid investing on speculative ventures. Tip: Take limited risks. Lucky colour: Bottle green. PISCES: The Ace of Wands says you would attempt to enhance your skills, knowledge and broaden your horizon. This would help you both personally and professionally and give you an edge over the rest. Moreover, you would be able to interact and meet new and fascinating people who would prove valuable in the future. Tip: Take limited risks while speculating. Lucky colour: Pale yellow.
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