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The driving force
This is the last and final time Randeep Bajwa, a homemaker from Mohali, goes through the pamphlet lying in front of her. Last night she had done a detailed ‘comparative study’ as well. She calls up few friends and her husband for opinion as well. This is her final call. Randeep successfully zeroes down on the swanky and fuel-efficient car model.
Deciding the model, doing an extensive recce, taking a test ride to check fuel efficiency, mileage, negotiating the money, to finally buying it, women are not just calling the shots from their bunkers, they are out and taken the steering in their hands. “I am fond of SUVs. When buying a car, I take into consideration many things,” shares Randeep, a serious car buyer, who knows automobiles beyond flashy colours. “Buying a car is an investment. I always have in mind certain parameters before buying the model.” Randeep keeps herself abreast with the latest models flowing in the market, their prices as well as USP they guarantee. She shows her Scorpio, which she bought after a good recee on Internet and market. “I do consult my husband before taking the final call, but ultimately it’s me making the decision.” Buying a car is not as simple as buying cosmetics, grocery, dresses or a piece of furniture. Nevertheless, these women know the ‘seriousness’ behind it, and you bet they are geared for it too. In fact, more and more women are accompanying their husbands to the car dealers to understand the drill and the logistic behind car driving. Ranjeev Dahuja, director Berkeley Automobiles nods in approval. “If we go back in time, there weren’t many women car buyers. Women today are independent; they run their own enterprise, which has also increased the need for personal conveyance. We definitely have serious buyers who take into account everything right from technology to economics.” Anu Dahuja cannot rule out the fact that when it comes to saving or spending money, ladies know what is the best. “Of late, they have become well versed with technology as well, which is why we can see more confident ladies walking in automobiles stores to buy a car.” When it comes to money, indeed the smart ladies know how to utilise every penny. Pradeep Mittal, managing director, Swami Automobiles Pvt Ltd, laughs as he tells us that women know how to spend. “Now you know why they influence the car purchase operation.”! jasmine@tribunemail.com |
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For the love of words
If you thought poetry was too complex an expression to be understood, appreciated and acknowledged, then Sacred Longings by Renee Singh might help you change your mind. A city-based life coach, writer and now a poet, Renee released her first poetry book, which is a compilation of soft romantic poems.
“Poetry is something that should appeal to everyone. It doesn’t follow an exact manner or language, it’s something that comes with a thought process,” says Renee. Having been drawn towards poetry as a child, the book has poems she wrote as a 20-year-old to verses she has written to symbolise her inner awakening. “Poetry comes from within, a divine expression. The book has poems untouched by the pain and troubles of the world, with their innocence intact,” she says. Having written for Cambridge University journals, Illustrated Weekly and Femina, Renee didn’t stick to a literary lingo or overplayed the intellectual quotient with her book. Rather, she has kept her poems easy to the reader. “One doesn’t have to be over the top just to sound intellectual. It’s an expression and simplicity works well with everybody.” Her poems have a close connect with nature, inspired by the likes of Wordsworth, Tennyson, Keats et al. “I was a big Wordsworth fan as a kid. The only other thing that inspires me after that is spirituality. nehawalia@tribunemail.com |
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Catch’em young
Encouraged by the success and popularity of workshops held in the past, the Pracheen Kala Kendra this year too is all set to organise the production-oriented workshops in theatrical arts and dance for the children of age group 5 to 16 years.
The month-long workshops will be held from May 28 to June 28, at the Kendra in Sector. The theatre workshop will be conducted by experienced and well-known theatre artistes, Malkeet Singh and Harpreet Kaur and their associates while workshop in dance will be conducted by Renu Panth, a disciple of guru Shobha
Koser. The Kendra has drawn fresh schedules to augment the artistic activities in the otherwise culturally starved city through their Mohali complex in Sector 71.
Here the participants will be trained by established artistes, alumni of the Department of Indian Theatre, Panjab University. |
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Teen’s den
Summer is here. And brings with it some free time in our fast paced youngsters’ lives to indulge in some diversion from the regular rut of routine. If something creative is on mind, why not redecorate your room? This Do It Yourself activity would not only rejuvenate you but also leave with a sense of achievement for the rest of the years (or till you decide to redo it). Theme scheme
First things first, choose a theme — princess, jungle, ocean, space, sports, retro or the fab flower power. You don’t have to break your bank, bit of accessories, some self-made collage or a mural can bring that look one is longing for. If its princess you wanna be, go in for hot pink, put a castle cut out (you can make it yourself too) at the back of your bed or embellish the staid fan with some princess’ stickers or glitters. For the jungle theme fling in a dinosaur, lion, elephant or some cushions in animal shapes around the room. A tree and foliage made of simple chart or wallpaper in brown and green can really give that forest feel. Bedding basics
“Bunk beds or loft beds for youngsters are really in,” says Sukhmani Bhore, city- based interior decorator. Make sure to have extra bedding ready if you are expecting friends/cousins for sleepover this summer. Slider beds can be an option too. Stock-up some comforters and pillows as well. Vaastu principles recommend keeping head in South for better sleep and for teenagers East is good for it enhances memory. Study space
One of the major occupations in youth is to ‘study’. Make sure to have a study table that leaves some space to write along side computer. Add zing with a nice pen stand and funky paperweight. A handy bookshelf nearby and probably a collage of your dream career’s would be inspiring. Vaastu endorses facing North, North-east and East while studying. It’s supposed to improve concentration. Colour palette
Youth is associated with bright colours and its pinks, purples, blues and greys that are in. “Khaki or green accented with red is really hot this summer,” says Sukhmani. However, keeping in mind the stress level that youth today deals with, probably cool and subtle colours are a better deal, suggests Sukhmani. “One can always accessorise the teen room with hot colours like red, turquoise, sunny yellow, hot pinks and shades of purple,” she avers. A wall dedicated to graffiti would bring out the creative spirit. Furnishing facts
Rugs, beanbags and throws are best for a teenager’s room. “While designing a teen’s room, we make sure to provide as lot of space to move around, and also make it well lit and airy,” says Sukhmani. “Instead of pleated curtains, curtains with trendy patchwork (they can be in sync with theme) or smart blinds or chiks (one can have the options in jute or bamboo) go well in youngsters’ rooms,” she adds. A corkboard to pin up the pictures, timetable or other stuff is another good idea. mona@tribunemail.com |
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What's next?
Actor Daniel Radcliffe is worried about his future jobs once filming on the Harry Potter series finally comes to an end. The 20-year-old actor, who is currently shooting for the final installment of the magical movie franchise Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows II, admitted he has projects coming up but still he is concerned about his future job opportunities.
The actor is worried that no acting assignments might mean he will have to look for a job in pantomime, a British comedy musical theatre production traditionally shown around Christmas time. Speaking at the National Movie Awards at London's Royal Festival Hall, where Harry Potter picked up the Best Family Movie Award and a Special Recognition Prize, Radcliffe said, "I hope that I will continue to find some kind of employment after this. Otherwise, I don't know...Panto I suppose. The big thing that I've got coming up is a musical on Broadway - How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying - so I'm fighting to learn how to dance and sing. I'm doing what work I can when I'm not filming - which obviously takes precedence," Radcliffe said. Discussing the awards won by the film, the British star confessed he is bowled over by the attention and glad the movie series has continued to get attention from the public. "It's amazing to be back here and to still be successful. It's not an easy thing to hold up the quality and fun and excitement and hold fans for ten years," Radcliffe said. — PTI |
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Pick n choose
Bruce Willis has declared that he will not do any role that comes his way - instead he is going to carefully choose whichever role he thinks suits him best. After doing one action movie after another during his career, it's no wonder that the Hollywood action man is becoming pickier about the roles he'll take on. "There are a few things I can't do any more," says the 55-year-old Die Hard star. "I don't want to work in the snow. I don't want to work on the water. I don't want to work in the desert. And I don't want to work in musical comedy.
"I really suck at all those things. I'm really crabby when I'm uncomfortable or I get some sand in my shorts," he said. — ANI |
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Play time
Hollywood actress Liz Hurley's son seems to be following his mother by embracing acting -- beginning with a school play. Eight-year-old Damian is multi-millionaire ex-husband Steve Bing's son. Hurley has been coaching him for weeks now. Liz, 44, is now married to Indian textile heir Arun Nayar.
"(In the) school play ... he plays Prince Charming's publicist. We've been learning (the) lines for weeks. Sweet," she posted on microblogging site Twitter. — IANS |
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Two much fun
Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon share a 'magical' chemistry on the set of their upcoming film Water for Elephants, says a source. A source close to the film explained that the chemistry between the two actors so far is 'magic'. "Rob worked with Reese seven years ago on Vanity Fair. He had a tiny part and he joked with Reese that of course she didn't remember him from their time together then, They joke a lot and Rob has her blushing and laughing all the time. He's very charming," said the source.
"He went on about how she is this beautiful, super-famous Academy Award winner, and Reese loved it. She was flattered and giggling while he teased. It's cute and it makes for a great movie set. Everyone is excited because they fit so well together," the source concluded.
— ANI |
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Shoot at site
Hollywood actor Ashton Kutcher has decided to capture first 10 minutes of his upcoming movie Killer at its premiere June 1. The 32-year-old star announced on microblogging site Twitter that he will use the latest web cam technology to shoot the footage at the screening in
Hollywood.
"I'd like to invite you to the premiere of Killers June 1. I'm going live to the web and pirating the first 10 minutes of Killers from the premiere," the actor wrote on his Twitter page. In the film, he plays a funny US assassin trying to live a normal life. The Killer also stars Katherine Heigl, Tom Selleck, Catherine O'Hara and Martin Mull. — IANS |
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Mixed doubles
Miley Cyrus is killing two birds with one stone these days, as she claims dating two men at the same time. The Hannah Montana star says she's spoilt for choice dating Aussie hunk Liam Hemsworth - and pint-sized singer Justin Bieber.
"I have my travel-size boyfriend and I have my oversized security boyfriend. It's perfect!" she said. The teen sensation might face bust-ups with Bieber Fever brigade if she isn't careful -just as Kim Kadarshian who was threatened by death mails from Justin fans after posing with him for a pic. Miley met Liam, 20, in 2009 while filming The Last Song together. The former Neighbours actor reportedly ended his relationship of five years to be with Miley.
— ANI |
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The award goes to…
Hollywood actor Sandra Bullock will receive MTV Generation Award at the MTV Movie Awards next month. She will be the first woman to receive this honour.
The Oscar-winning actor will also make her first public appearance following her split from husband Jesses James. The MTV Generation Award is given to movie stars who have entertained generations of the audience over the last two decades. — IANS |
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Drink to it
It's the season when orchards blossom in shades of crimson, emerald and gold. It's the season when the fruits are just ripe for picking. It's also the time that the mercury level is rising. A potent arsenal to fight the heat, translate fruits into delightful, thirst busting, heat-beating beverages that are sure to please your taste buds and keep your senses fresh. What's in city stores? Read on… "We have introduced probiotic smoothies for our summer special menu. The yogurt has a proboitic bacteria that is good for digestion, has cooling effect for the system and provides immunity," says Priya Garg, director, Oven Fresh-35. The probiotic smoothies come in seven flavours - pinacloda, rose, banana caramel, blueberry, strawberry et all. "It's a light summer drink and healthy as well with low sugar contents," adds Priya. Apart from the smoothies, they have milkshakes; fruit crushes, slushes with fruit infusions and flavours. The ice float sodas will sure give you a brain freeze. To beat the heat this summer Café Coffee Day has turned to nature too, with its fruit-based beverages. And, the menu reads juicy with cherries, melons, berries and green apples. Their summer orchard has options like cherry iced tea, smoothies, including muskmelon springs, a creamy muskmelon smoothie, with melon puree and cream and green apple ripples, refreshing, chilled green apple smoothie with cream and fresh fruits. There are tasty ice delights as well with cherry grove, berry blast and nutty cold coffee. Backpackers-9 offers basic summer chillers with lassi, fresh fruit juices and regulars like ice tea and coffee blends. "The hot favourites in summers are lassi, both sweet and salted flavours and smoothies that we make using milk, seasonal fruits and yogurt. Even their names are interesting like Tokyo, DC and London," says Priya Jagat, owner, Backpackers. There are plenty of fruit based options with lots of cocktails, mocktails offered by city restaurants and cafes, but even the roadside sugarcane juice wala can be your best bet to save you from the summer drain. So hit the patio or the pool deck or your favourite café down the lane and unwind with some delicious summer coolers. Go celebrate the spirit of the season.
nehawalia@tribunemail.com
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Sweet talk
Mother Dairy has announced an expansion of its ice cream portfolio with a focus on both the health conscious consumer and indulgent pleasure seekers. Go on a guilt-free trip with the all-new Mother Dairy Dietz Sugar Free - a hard to refuse option that is low on fat content and high on dietary fibre. So, indulge your taste buds without compromising on taste and experience!
It offers delectable flavours with the latest innovation- Western Range. This all-new range is a true western experience packaged with chocolate, cookies and cake to delight and enrich the experience of
ice creams. Commenting on the launch of Dietz Sugar Free and Western Classic Range Sanjay Sinha, Head(Milk & Dairy Products Business) Mother Dairy Fruit & Vegetable Private Limited, said "Innovation is a high point with Mother Dairy and we've always been at the forefront of catering to ever changing consumer needs. Our focus this season has been both, health and indulgence and this is reflected in the launch of two new ice cream variants- Dietz Sugar Free in two flavours and Western Classics in three flavours." —TNS |
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Bon Appetit
There is a variation in the texture and appearance of jams, jellies and preserves Apricot Jam
Method Wash the fruit and spread on a clean towel to dry thoroughly. Halve each fruit and pry out the stones. Keep a handful of stones before discarding the rest of them. Chop the apricots and transfer to a heavy pan or karhaai. Crack open the stones, retrieve the kernels and throw them in along with the chopped fruit. Add a cupful of water and cook the fruit till soft. Tip the sugar into the karhaai and cook further, stirring constantly. You may nead to add the lemon juice only if the resulting jam is too sweet. The lemon juice will then create the correct balance. If you are tempted to add less sugar, please keep in mind that a less sweet jam may spoil unless you are willing to house it in the fridge. Cool some jam on a saucer and check for doneness. When ready, the surface will 'wrinkle' when you push a fingertip across it. Carefully pour into clean jars while still hot. Don't omit the kernels from this recipe. They help the jam to set and impart a lovely flavour. Mango jam
Method Wash, peel and chop the mangoes. Liquidise them and measure out 2 ½ cups of the resulting puree. Place the sugar and the puree in a heavy based vessel and cook gently. Be careful as the bubbling mass is notorious. It can splash on your hands and arms and burn you. Stir constantly until thick and check if it sets on the plate when cool. Pour the hot jam in sterilized jars and cover with tight fitting lids. Note: If you plan to make a larger quantity of jam to last many months, you will need to preserve it by adding potassium metabisulphite. For every kilo of ready jam, mix ¼ tsp of the powder with 1-2 tsp of water and stir it into the jam. |
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“This is it,” she smiled taking one deep look into the pamphlet. “I am going to give the cash payment and getting the car,” she announces at home. Who says women only influence the matters at home, or call the shots from the backseat. Current figures quote that women influence more than one third of car purchases in India. So much so, the number of women car buyers in India has grown three-fold in recent years.
Adjusting the rear-view mirror of the car, to roll on a ‘perfect’ layer of lipstick, to apply a thin layer of kajal, adjusting the air conditioner or changing sides of the CD, this isn’t the only affiliation woman have with cars. Take it from Swati Kakkar, who made it doubly sure before buying a BMW. “I have been driving since I was in Class X. I have changed cars over the years. Invariably, I have always been in the forefront while buying a car,” she chips in. Swati values the advice of her husband, apart from this she makes sure that the interior and exteriors of the car suit the requirement of the family. She laughs, “I am a serious buyer. My inputs are not limited to deciding the colour or the model, I decide in terms of mileage and efficiency too.”
If making your own cocktail is your idea for summer refreshment, then bring the temperature down with Bacardi. Their Summer Coolers' are the perfect blend of delicious mixers and Bacardi. Making your own cocktail was never easier, just throw in lots of ice, pour some Bacardi, add in the mixers and blend in some fun. Featuring in are Bacardi apple and peach iced tea, Bacardi Limonett, original Bacardi Mojito and Bacardi O Side Car. Any cocktail lover can stir up these simple and innovative cocktails following the recipes by Bacardi.