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Tune in!
"Everybody is using Internet and since the overall market for electronica is still coming up in India, digital transition of music is the thing to do," says Sahil Sareen, drummer and manager of Carrot Fish, a city-based band. If you thought the market is dead for experimentation, then click on to itunes, soundcloud.com, ibibo.com or myspace.com and upload your kind of music. What you have is not about just making music but marketing it too. "Internet is a one-point access, you don't need a distribution network here, so artists are not bothered about marketing. Why shell out money for an album when you can get over 100,000 hits in a single day online," he adds. Sure, in a way many bands don't make it after college or university levels, just because of lack of support, money and time. Carrot Fish was the hottest playing band on ibibo.com when their single Funny girl got the maximum hits and since then there has been no looking back. "Established bands like Medieval Punditz, Pentagram, Prestorika and Jalebee Cartels too have been using Internet to reach out to people. For a band, these portals help in getting recognition and headline acts, as the access is far too wide and effective. They also help you share your music on a global level and stay connected to the sound of music worldwide," feels DJ Sameer of Chakra:Vu. "Through Internet and own websites, its easy to create your brand of music and also upload live acts, which otherwise is big problem," says Sahil. Moving past rock bands, upcoming R&B artists too are uploading their music and shaking things up. Some of city's young groups like Crew172 have released their tracks on Youtube, "Internet gives you a chance to stretch your creativity. We have rappers in Punjabi, Hindi and English making music and selling it too through online channels," feels Navdeep Singh aka Naughty Dog from Crew172. This is where a record label makes its presence felt, by addressing these very needs. Well just for your information various companies scout talent through Internet. "Online platforms like ibibo.com are an essential part of the 'talent discovery' value chain. Music labels can refer to upcoming artist online groups and fan clubs to gauge the response to their music, sense the feedback from online forums, wall posts and comment trails," says Siddartha Deshprabhu, associate director, Entertainment Marketing, Ibibo Pvt Ltd. "If your music is a hit online and has good reviews, the chances of bagging record deal are higher. Niche genres and musicians that have a smaller audience are normally not taken into consideration by these record labels otherwise," says Sameer. "Even initial sampling of music by a record label (before the label contacts the band/artists) can happen online. Ibibo.com has at times facilitated the process of artist meeting record label," he adds. Considering that labels like EMI, Sony too scout talent this way, this is sure a great way to get noticed. nehawalia@tribunemail.com
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Say Jazz
More than the dance, the students will be learning balance movements, improvisation, grace in dance techniques etc. The workshop is open to everybody above the age of 10. It’s also an opportunity to learn about international dance standards. Seats are limited and admission will be on first come first serve basis. The timings are 4pm-6pm and 6pm-8pm. The workshop will be held from November 2-6.
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Matka chowk
The US is the capital of road rage. We laughed when we read the account of an old lady who simply refused to give way. The irate driver of the other vehicle accosted her when she stopped at a red light. When she protested, he simply picked up her pet poodle that was a fellow traveler and threw it as far as he could into the traffic. Needless to say that he was punished for this inhuman deed and all the animal lovers of America poured in their protest against this heinous act. The lady, who used to cut my hair, that too quite terribly, also narrated her own experience. Apparently, she watched a road rage altercation that was taking place at a traffic signal. The man was enraged for the car in front did not give him way and in his fury started hitting the woman with a sheaf of bills he had in his hand. The lady in response took out a torch from her glove compartment and hit the man on his head. One strike and he sank onto the road and all hell broke loose. Everyone rushed out of their cars to aid the fallen man. Meanwhile, traffic piled up and my storyteller missed her appointment with a tarot card reader. Don’t know what happened to his bills. I guess, Chandigarh will see its own share of road rage. It is amazing that in such a miniscule city, people are in such an enormous hurry. The race till the next chowk seems to be the highpoint of driving. Where is everyone going in such a rush? Or have we all turned into Type A personalities? The roads can be a scary place in the night. Don’t be fooled by the oblique rays of light falling on the dusky trees and the smoky cocoon the city seems to be enveloped in. In reality, the madness has begun. Many drunk drivers are prowling the city. Many drivers simply drunk on the size of their cars have also thrown to the wind all daytime moderation. One of my American girlfriends bought a Hummer like jeep – she thought that was impenetrable. In absence of that, maybe we can start carrying a heavy-duty torch in our glove compartment! matkachowk@gmail.com |
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Lure of the Raj
It’s a building that has seen history as it happened. Ambala Cantonment is known for its history and heritage buildings, but this one is rather special. Yes, we are talking about Kharga House, which turned 100 this year. Official residence of the corps commander, the residence has undergone many renovations over the years, however, it has retained its old charm. Ambala was developed as a cantonment in 1825. The military significance of Ambala during the British period grew during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s military frays across Yamuna. The construction of a permanent barrack in the cantonment commenced in 1843. Buildings or bungalows for officers, offices, British troops, native Indian troops, military hospitals, churches, stables and cemetery were built. Kharga House and the adjoining Angora farm were constructed in 1908-1909 as ‘captains’ quarters for two single officers’. Modifications and additions have completely altered the original building, through the core remains the same. It is a fantastic example of British architecture and landscaping. Occupying an area of 2.27 acres, the occupants over a period of time have taken special care to preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of the building and have maintained the traditional elegance. The Kharga House has high ceilings, spacious rooms, French windows, wide verandahs, colonnaded portico and an impressive driveway. Each room has a chimney with fireplace. Its sprawling lush green lawns with colourful seasonal flowers set in pretty borders and fruit trees of numerous varieties have contributed towards adding to a resplendent splendor. The serene “Kharga House” juxtaposing the Angora Farm personifies natural beauty. A statue of meditating Buddha installed in front of the bungalow sits amidst array of brilliantly coloured flowers. Since independence, this house has been the official residence of Commander Ambala Sub Area and changed occupants between Commander Ambala Sub Area, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 4 Infantry Division and GOC Punjab, Haryana & Himachal Pradesh Area till January 1985. At that time it was called Flag Staff House. On the relocation of HQ PH & HP Area to Shimla, the house was re-designated as Kharga House. The first GOC 2 Corps who occupied this house was Lt Gen B.C Nanda, AVSM. The present occupant is Lt Gen Chetinder Singh, SM, VSM, the GOC of 2 Corps. The house holds a special corner for his wife Ruby Sandhu, who herself an Army officers daughter has lived here earlier, when her father was posted as Area Commander. It is also in this very house that her marriage was solemnised in 1977. As part of three-day celebrations to commemorate this occasion events have been organized, which will see many serving and ex-senior army officers in attendance.
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At your service
Customers indeed are a deciding factor of any market scenario. And British Library too realised this fact. Their customer service week starting October 26-31 at all centers in India and Sri Lanka is designed to raise awareness of customer service and the vital role it plays within the organisation. During the week, British Library zeroed in on the service that they delivered and also took the opportunity to say thanks to their customers for their continuing patronage as well as the staff for their contribution to delivering excellent customer service. The week witnessed a lot of activities, including Wear what we do, place your comments on the tree on how British council can improve its customer service, Happy hours, Scratch and win and on line crossword.
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Small wonder
“With the launch of Mahindra Gio, we have created a new Compact Truck category in the commercial vehicle segment. The Mahindra Gio is the first of its kind entry level 4 wheel cargo vehicle, and is all set to change the dynamics of the small CV segment,” said Dr Pawan Goenka, president, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. Most suitable for intra city operations, its compact 0.5 ton cargo box ensures maximum utilisation of space. A small turning radius of 3.8 metres, dashboard mounted gear shifter and ‘car like’ steering wheel allows this nifty 4 wheel load carrier to negotiate the narrowest of roads with ease. The turck comes in five youthful shades of Peacock Blue, Royal Red, Golden Yellow, Diamond White and Sporty Green.
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Kairos call
Sam Cawthorn, you will not be able to walk again. And Sam was a hip-hop dancer. Sam, you lost your right hand. And Sam was a musician who loved playing guitar since he was seven. Yet, for someone who was supposed to spend the rest of his life on wheelchair, receiving Young Australian of the Year award, and being the only guitar player in the world with a an elbow amputation, life has never been happier.
Sam Cawthorn who died three years ago in a car accident and resuscitated with an amputated right arm and permanently disabled right leg is a now a highly sort after International communicator, life coach and mentor. And his second life has just one mantra. “Whatever you do just get your life right!” he spells it himself. In city, to hold a lecture on leadership and communication at the Chandigarh Toatmaster Club, Sam laid down the rules for bringing the change in your life. “Get perspective. Problems define your character, they define your life. It’s your decision and not condition that decides what your would become,” he says. His point, “ A guy born with no legs and arms can be the happiest in the world while you can still go on cribbing about not having enough dresses in your wardrobe.” With his experience and stories, Sam travels worldwide, sharing tools and strategies that he used and inspire others to overcome their mental and physical barriers to achieve the impossible. “I believe that change becomes easy when we make straight choices. Its all about Kairos, a moment within a moment when drastic change can happen,” he shares. And all this doesn’t sound phoney when he says it, a man who is a live example of what he preaches. The young Tasmanian has won many accolades for his motivational lectures including Young Australian of the year, Pride of Australia medal and exceptional service award. He continues to develop his conversations, and we bet interacting with him leaves one with one of the best dinner table conversations, and is planning to study at Harvard University. His messages are designed uniquely, for he uses his life stories, empowers with life after death experience and believes in the power of Sychronicity. “There are times when you overlook meaningful opportunities and take things for granted, only to realise later that as a mistake. One should make the most of every opportunity and focus on the attitude towards life rather than counting the lost calls,” he signs off. nehawalia@tribunemail.com |
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Quilted comfort
“For me quilting is a form of art,” says Kamal Grewal from Sector 8. From making cushions to bedcovers to quilts Kamal spells the art of quilting to us, “Quilting is basically the sandwiching or padding between two cloths. Though I don’t make thick quilts, I have a range that includes quilted bedspreads and even covers.” What about the designs and patterns? “I do patterns ranging from American country patchwork to a form of Italian quilting called ‘Trapunto’.”
Coming to the cost, obviously it depends on the work done, but the range for these quilts goes maximum to Rs 5,000. Though the piecing of fabric together is a very old custom, dated back to the 15th century, it was more often used for clothing but also occasionally for decorative objects like exquisite pieced pillows or bedspreads. But the making of pieced quilts made up of cut pieces of fabric sewn in block form, with the blocks then sewn together to make the quilt is a more recent development. Telling us more about this art form, Ridhima A. Ohri from Home & More in Sector 9 says, “Pieced block quilts, often called patchwork quilt, did not become the dominant form of quilt making until the mid19th century, and it is still not the traditional form in many parts of the world.” Well, that’s about history, about her work she says, “From patchwork to embroidery and a mix and match of coloured fabrics, I do work as per the demands of the customer. We have king, queen and even baby quilts.” About the patterns she says, “Adults mostly like embroidery or patch work quilts and the kids like themes on their quilts, like a fairy tale, jungle book to cartoon characters.” Made of fibre polyfill, the cover of the quilt can be made in any fabric that you like. To safeguard the outer layer you can even custom make quilt covers. The price again depends on the designs. Well, these are not the only options, for pocket friendly quilts you can visit Bijwada, (a market behind sector 22) where you can find a number of people making quilts. Though here you want find the glamorous designer stuff but well you can unleash your creative side here. And if you are the one who does not have the time to wait then you can visit various city showrooms that sell readymade quilts.
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Picks & piques
Arjun (Ajay Devgan ) and Mannu(Salman) are childhood friends. Both have music in their blood. Mannu's family is supportive and encouraging while Arjun's takes objection to his interest in music because his grandfather had failed to find his voice at his very first Wembley showing. When Arjun's father expires suddenly, his uncle (Om Puri) takes him to London but he too doesn't want him to have anything to do with music. So, Arjun runs away from the airport and the next thing we know is he has become a musician/singer. The leap from runaway to successful singer/musician appears so improbable that you begin to wonder whether the director and writer have any understanding of the hard work, effort and talent involved in achieving such a farfetched dream. Then there is Preeti (Asin), the southie from a conservative family, who just happens along -dancing at one of Arjun's impromptu jigs with his bandmates (Ranvijay and Aditya), she catches his eye and becomes a part of the group. The sequence is constructed so unimaginatively that you wonder whether talent really had any weightage in the so-called selection. And later on, she has nothing much to do in the group other than become one of the causes for the eventual rift between Arjun and Mannu. Mannu comes into the picture when Arjun decides to bring him to London to be part of his group. Mannu becomes more popular with the audience and Preeti and Arjun begin to seethe with jealousy. Thereafter the film takes yet another hysterical turn with Arjun engineering Mannu's downfall. It's amazing how logic is never the mainstay in a big budget Bollywood product. A few loud dialogues written especially with Salman in mind, makes for some entertaining moments but even that appears planted rather than a part of the story. Ajay Devgan has his intense moments and Salman, his comedic, but it is just not enough to make this film anywhere close to sensible or for that matter, entertaining. Flight of fancy
Aladin directed by Sujoy Ghosh, with add-on script contribution by Suresh Nair again, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Reitesh Deshmukh and Srilankan beauty queen Jacquiline Fernandes is a basically a fantasy gone bad. Sujoy Ghosh had the stars but he really did not know what to do with them. Amitabh plays the genie while Sanjay Dutt is ringmaster, a genie gone bad. Reitesh Deshmukh is Aladin and Jacqueline is Jasmine, an exchange student from the US who relocates to Khwaish University somewhere near Chandigarh. The derivative plot and story (both fantasy and romance) is pretty ridiculous and the performances are caricaturish. Amitabh (after Jhoom barabar Jhoom and RGV's AAG) gives his worst performance yet while Sanjay Dutt appears sluggish and his performance lacks in energy and bite. The CG is poorly done and the narrative spiel is terribly flat and uninteresting. Though the budget of both films put-together would cross 100 crores at a conservative estimate. And this is what you get for it. |
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Tarot talk
TAURUS: "The Empress" card says you would be filled with enthusiasm and a zest for living. Upbeat and cheerful, you would be able to deal with challenges and obstacles, both at work and at home. Tip: Take limited risks with you capital. Lucky colour: Peacock green. GEMINI: "The Hanged Man" opts for important changes at home and work. Professionals and business people would profit and progress. If planning a new venture, this is a good time, however, do not be reckless and rash in your decisions. Tip: Be cautious in your action and speech. Lucky colour: Pink. CANCER: You draw "The World" as a result, you would experience greater amount of peace and contentment with yourself and everything around you. This would also, be a time when most of you would want to spend some time alone and in quietness. Tip: Take one step at a time Lucky colour: Grey. LEO: "Six of Swords" bring mental clarity and perspective in chaotic situation. This week would surely be quite delightful for many of you. At work, you would be rewarded for your efforts and there may also, be some changes in the workforce. Tip: Don't feel guilty about not being a man in a hurry. Lucky colour: Golden. VIRGO: You draw the "Wheel of Fortune" and the efforts that you had been putting in at work would now begin to show results and things would surely look up. Financial and other rewards would motivate you to work harder and better. Tip: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Saffron. LIBRA: "The Priestess" infuses a gracious influence in your life. Work related problems may take up much of your time, energy and patience. Keep a check on your temper and be as tactful as you can. Tip: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting new. Lucky colour: Scarlet. SCORPIO: "The Ace of Wands" reveals some of you may also, feel the need to take the relationship to another level and be more committed. Money and health would both be stable and wouldn't need much looking after, in this week. Tip: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Blue. SAGITTARIUS: "The Prince of Wands" reveals a good time to make presentations, attend interviews and discussions. This is a favourable week to buy, sell, and invest in real estate and other speculative ventures. Tip: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Cream. Capricorn: "The three of Coins" says professionals in the field of law, politics, education, travel and religion would shine and rise brightly. There would be an increase in your confidence and enthusiasm towards the end of the week and as a result, you may reach out to new people and form new friendships. Tip: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Lotus pink.
PISCES: The Card "The Moon" brings a quickening, many changes and insights. Friends and family would lift up your spirits. Going out on trips with them and spending time with them would bring you much joy. Financially, there may be some tough times and you may have to cut back a little. Tip: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Purple.
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India is the next happening thing on the international music scene, and no we are not talking about
Bollywood. Let's for a change talk beyond Bollywood music and give credit to the hard rock, electronica that finally made its way to mainstream market, thanks to the Internet. Reaching out to a growing audience and maintaining its unusual standards, professional bands are ready for some 'Net'working with their latest music releasing online. Streaming music online has worked in sync with the new audience, young musicians and well, record labels hunting for talent too.
Chandigarh Institute of Performing Arts is organizing a five-day Hip-hop and Jazz dance workshop in association with Dewsons. Julia Kleese, a renowned German dancer, choreographer will head the workshop after her expert stints in countries like Germany, UK, USA, Italy and Turkey. The workshop will begin with jazz warm up exercises followed by dance techniques combining modern and funky dance routines.
Road rage is a comparatively new phenomenon in Chandigarh, but it is getting real. You read about people getting beaten up simply because they did not promptly let the other vehicle pass. There might be multiple lanes, but if you don’t get cowered down by a big jeep following you very closely, flashing abnormally big lights and honking continuously at the same time, and move left – you may be at the risk of having your nose smashed
in.
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), launched the Mahindra Gio, India’s first 4 wheel 0.5 ton Compact Truck. A category-creating vehicle in the cargo commercial vehicle segment, the Mahindra Gio combines the style, status, comfort and safety of a four-wheeler with the low operating and maintenance cost of a three-wheeler. The Mahindra Gio is available at a price of Rs 1.65 lakh, ex showroom BSII; BSIII price is Rs 1.68 lakh. Equipped with a high performance 9.1 HP Kohler engine, from Kohler, USA, the Mahindra Gio gives best-in-class mileage of 27 km per litre.
Finally, we can feel the sun warming up for winters and feel the nip in the chilled nights. And as the season changes and we cuddle up for the little warmth, it’s time to say quilts. Though they are available in various designs, patterns, fabrics and even stuffing, we suggest why not custom-make it. Tricity has various designers, who can mix ‘n’ match and paste ‘n’ print your choice of a cozy quilt. Here are some options…
Ask her to define these two forms and she says, “In American country patchwork we combine six to seven fabrics. They are cut into small pieces and then a single piece is made out of it. This is a European art form. For the Italian style called Trapunto, it’s done by using one plain fabric and then doing swirls, feather motifs and outline o; it’s basically a close quilting that is suppressed from sides and padded part come outs in the middle.” 
London Dreams, directed by Vipul Shah, written by journo turned screenwriter Suresh Nair, is unimaginative and extremely tepid. The script appears to be a hastily jumbled together series of plotlines, which were forged on the director's fancy.
ARIES:
"Ace of Pentacles" reveals as far as business and profession
is concerned, you must be diplomatic and yet determined. Your strategic
mind would be able to counter the plans of rivals and competitors
successfully. Tip of the week: Don't be dismissive of advice from
youthful origin. Lucky colour: Royal blue.
Aquarius:
"The Chariot" says the week would be quite favourable for
travelling and vacations, especially, since most of you have been working
quite hard. Love would be in the air and it would be up to you to be
expressive about your feelings. Tip: Do what is right and watch
your best interests. Lucky colour: Orange.