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At peace
I am reading some scripts these days. I don't want to do just about any movie. As an actor, I want to experiment with roles…ask any actor (not the happening ones, of course) about their upcoming projects, these are the standard answers that 'invariably' come up time and again.
Surprisingly though, Shamita Shetty had an altogether different take on it. "I am doing nothing. I am not reading any scripts. I am doing other projects, which I can talk about some time later," smiles Shamita. And that's it. What about substantial roles, experimentation and growth as an actor? The petite looking beauty throws her head back in laughter, as she goes around checking the cool and trendy stuff at the newly opened Jack and Jones, Sector-17. "I didn't plan anything before stepping into the industry, neither do I feel like making any. I only believe that as a person I should be convinced about the stuff that I take out time to do something," offers Shamita. Yoga! This must be it - relaxed, clam, comfortable in her skin, Shamita seems to be in no hurry to get anywhere. She chuckles. "Trust me I was a totally different person three years back. Extremely impatient and short tempered. Not that I don't have these facets in my personality any more, but I have realised that there is more to me." Now we are curious. Any revelations? "Not for you sweety, I have discovered something about myself. One fine day I woke up and realised this is not my identity. Shamita the actor this is not me. But, it really took a while to reach this stage." Is this the case of disillusionments with the industry or the people around? "Everybody comes with some dreams, they don't materialise always." Except for some. Like? "Like I have an extremely supportive family who have allowed me to take my call on life and work in general," adds Shamita, who likes brands like Vero Moda, but otherwise likes to keep her dressing pretty casual. Talking about taking decisions on her own…is the elder sister Shilpa okay with the idea? "Why wouldn't she? She is extremely close to me; I admire her confidence. Whatever she is today is because of her right attitude and faith in whatever she does." Faith, the word rings a bell. Oneness University (a spiritual school) and Shamita's association with it? "Yes," her eyes light up, "It has changed my life completely. I need to be satisfied with whatever I do. Running after something is not the ends and means of my existence. I flow like a river, which by the way is not a cakewalk." Like her stay in Bigg Boss? "I wanted to challenge myself. The best in a person comes when he or she is challenged. And how one reacts to a given situation is not always predictable. I am glad I am at peace," she heaves another sigh of relief. Spirituality, need we say suits some! jasmine@tribunemail.com |
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Fashion her way
No matter what brand she sports, no matter what designer outfit she flaunts, no matter how she does her hair, what accessory she carries, Amisha Patel's design sense never seems to go down well with the fashion critics. However, this does not deter this gossamer skin actor to wear her heart on
her dresses.
"Fashion means different things to different people. What is stylish to you could be absolutely absurd to me and vice versa. Apart from this, each one of us has a different body type and shape, which cannot be ignored," says Amisha, another celebrity entrant at the Jack and Jones store. So, how does this Kaho Na Pyaar tag lady define fashion? "Something that I am comfortable in. I like brands but this does not mean I follow them outlandishly." She adds, "I am more of an accessory person. Bags are my first love, and I have loads of them in all sizes and shapes. I also look at denims as a good investment. Team it up with casual tee or anything formal as per
the occasion." The lady wants to add that she is not part of the rat race in Bollywood. "I work because it gives me satisfaction. Despite the huge budgets involved, the movies still lack a quality projection of roles," she says while sharing the names of her upcoming projects, Run Bhola Run with Govinda and Chatur Singh. Before she signs off one last query - rumours and how she deals with what is written on her. "I don't care. I have consciously detached myself from what people write about me. I read newspapers though. I don't want people to think actors know nothing," she smiles.
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Of many facets
First it is modelling, then veejaying, then television and finally movies. This is the standard route every celebrity eventually takes. But exceptions cannot be overlooked and a little deviation in this route
is acceptable.
Television actor Rakshanda Khan too has taken a detour. Instead of the natural progression from television to films, she has taken up a different path and a new role - she is busy handling work of her event management company 'Celebrity Locker'. From a conniving bahu to a real life entrepreneur, quiet a change. "Television producers these days look for a pallu wearing, sanskaari bahu. They probably think I don't look sanskaari," she laughs. For her first Chandigarh event at Jack and Jones, Rakshanda carries her bindaas attitude on her sleeves. Though she gets a wee bit conscious of her silky hair failing to follow a particular style. "Honestly, television has become repetitive. I have done two best shows on television, Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin and Kahani Ghar Ghar ki, and I don't think there is much left to experiment," says Rakshanda. "How much can an actor experiment on TV? Anyways it is not like films, where every role is a challenge and different from others." Change is always a good thing. In Rakshanda's case it sure is. "I am god's chosen one. He has given me a chance to play different
roles - a model, veejay, TV and now an event management company." Handling celebrities and their tantrums is not an easy task. We bet you would agree? "They are not at all difficult to handle. Give them love and take care of their needs, they never trouble. Besides, I have an advantage, I know what they want and what puts them off," she signs off. |
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Changing hues
We all like the pretty flowers blooming around us. Remember that tree laden with yellow flowers, which hang like a bunch of grapes? But how often have you wondered that these can be an excellent choice as gifts rather than the roses and carnations?
And many an exotic variety is available in the market now. Says Gitesh Sharma, owner of Disha Florists-35, "Orchids, lilies, Bird of Paradise, Anthurium, Zebra, Pandula, Endurian roses are the hot picks from our shop. These are available in different hues and have a longer shelf life as compared to roses and other local flowers." And the reason behind the growing popularity of these flowers? Reveals Raju Gupta, owner of Gupta's Green Valley Flowers-34, "The main reason why consumers choose these rare flowers is because they are available in wonderful, bright colours such as yellow, red, pink. In addition, these last for a good 15 days and can be sent to a far off place." But it costs a little more for a longer shelf life. Explains Rajini Mahajan, owner of Dew Drops Florists-35, "One stick of Bird of Paradise costs between Rs 100-120 and other flowers are range from Rs 10-100 for a stick." And people now are increasingly aware of the symbolic significance of flowers…Acacia (friendship), Bird of Paradise (magnificence), Bird of Ireland (Good Luck), Calla Lilly (Beauty), Lilly (Purity), Orchid (Thoughtfulness), Bamboo saplings (Good luck)…the list goes on. Rajesh Mattu, from Universal Flowers-15, says, "People now know more about flowers, which wasn't the case earlier. They understand the symbols attached to each variety." And what about the buyers? Says Garima, a web developer, "I like to buy white lilies, orchids, calendulas. They are exotic in every way". Adds Shashi Sharma, a home maker, "I gifted a bamboo sapling to my friend recently. These are easily available and cost as little as Rs 50. But some like to stick to the good old flowers. Says Lovedeep Sidhu, student of School of Communication Studies, Panjab University, "Exotic flowers are good for a change but I still prefer roses." |
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Sculpting history
The fourth pillar of the sculpture is a little more significant than the rest. Through various symbols, it speaks about the sacrifice of martyrs who at some point of time were associated with the school.
Bhagat Singh's symbolic hat of course finds the most prominent place on top of the pillar. And besides, there is a gun sculpted to symbolise the lesser-known martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the Kargil war. The challenge for Charanjeet Kaur was to study certain parts of history from various books and tell the story while retaining the facts and effects in the sculpture. "The idea was not to make paintings of martyrs, which has always been the case but speak about their sacrifices through objects related to them." Made at the DAV Senior Secondary School (Lahore), Sector 8, the sculpture named Shubh Aarambh Chowk, marks the 125th birth anniversary of the school. Bhagat Singh studied in the school when it had its base in Lahore before Partition. Charanjeet realised the importance of the project when she started with its research work, "It was important to do justice to the sculpture as it has to portray a subject that has mention in hundreds of books." The other three pillars are based on different ideas. And to mirror the history of the school and personalities from various fields wasn't an easy task. "It was only when I began with the pillars dedicated to martyrs that I knew it was an opportunity to pay my share of respect to them." And everything followed accordingly. Another pillar is dedicated to sportspersons like Kapil Dev, Yuvraj Singh and many others who have passed out from the school. The central pillar pays homage to Mahatma Hans Raj, founder and first headmaster of the school in the year 1886. Also mentioned on the pillar is the brief history of the school that was re-established in the year 1955 in Chandigarh. The fourth pillar has education as its subject. "The school is a right mix of education imparted through Vedas and the modern system. The pillar has sculptures of children around it," says Charanjeet. The background of the sculpture has a mural of the rising sun and 'Om' to further render a spiritual effect. Made in granite, the pillars are done in metallic hues. It took Charanjeet two months to complete the project. "The hardwork paid well as the sculpture says everything about the history of the school otherwise compiled in any book," she says. ashima@tribunemail.com |
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Musical bonanza
Twist & Shout is very peppy-contemporary in style and encompasses a very soulful rainbow of vocal styles. It's all set for yet another milestone in Taz's history and repertoire. With exciting collaborations with Rap Star Bohemia , UK Bhangra Dj/Producer Mixman Shawn, DJ Sanj and many more - the album is a wonderful experience in Indi-popdom. Taz sustains the formula Stereo Nation is famous for by way of continuing to write songs that have evergreen sustainability, strong melodies, catchy hooks and lyrics that touch the hearts of everyday people. Twist & Shout has eight rocking brand new tracks and 9 funky foot-stomping remixes with house, techno and Bollywood flair - by DJ T-NU, DJ Shadow, Johnny Jockey, Chillitown ft Tenny Ten and others. Twist & Shout has Influences ranging from 60's Motown / Blues to the modern era of Urban Street Sensibility. No wonder Taz's soul connection to his fans worldwide has always been the reason that Stereo Nation has stayed right at the top in music business in Non-film as well as Bollywood. — TNS
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Wait ‘n’ watch
"No, I did not have to do anything of that sort," said Nikhil on the peeling off rumours. "They are only speculations. Somethings should be left for the audiences to wait and watch in the film and then understand it," the actor told. Rumours mills were agog that the 27-year-old did not just shed his hair to sport a shaven look for the Mani Ratnam thriller releasing June 18. "The bald look is for a particular sequence. Yes, I have gone bald for the movie but for a particular sequence and not for the entire film. "I play a young, honest, upright police officer who feels that he can use the uniform and the authority given to him to ensure that good prevails over evil and right wins over wrong." So I had to look like a cop... I gained about five kg for the role… Mani Ratnam believes in real kind of cinema and he wanted a hefty person as small town cops look like that. I also had to cut my hair very short, grew a moustache and try to work on my body language," he said. Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Tamil superstar Vikram play main leads in Raavan. Asked about his camaraderie with his co-stars, he said: "My co-actors were absolutely wonderful. I was virtually a newcomer while these people have been there for decades and at the top." Talking about Ratnam, he said: "Every actor's biggest dream is to work under the baton of Mani Ratnam and I was fortunate enough to get that so early in my career. Mani sir is a stalwart. He deserves an absolute respect. I am going to take a lot of my learning from the sets of Raavan to my other films," said the actor. A qualified MBA, Nikhil was a corporate executive at Videocon before making his debut in Bollywood with My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves in 2008. After that he signed Khalbali - Fun Unlimited, but the film could not release due to the Mumbai terror attacks. Apart from Raavan, Nikhil also has a healthy line-up of other movies in hand like Shor, Abhay Deol's debut home production Basra, Matric Pass and a remake of Sunny Deol starrer 1985 hit Arjun. "I am working very hard on all of them. I leave the rest on god and the audiences of this country," he said. — IANS
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Hollywood actor Orlando Bloom struggled for stardom due to his continuing battle with dyslexia, unable to read scripts and learn his lines. The Pirates of the Caribbean star opened up about his learning disability in a talk at Rockefeller University titled 'Dyslexia and Creativity: Two Sides of the Same Coin', held to raise awareness about the condition. "It's still an ongoing struggle. I have more trouble studying scripts and memorising lines than most (other actors), Bloom said. The 33-year-old actor, who was present with his supermodel girlfriend Miranda Kerr, admitted that he has worked hard to overcome it and thanks his mother for giving him the courage to succeed in life. "My mum used to tell me, 'If you read 50 books, I'll get you a motorbike.' So it inspired me to read a lot and work through (my dyslexia). But I never quite got to 50. And I never got that motorbike," Bloom said. — PTI
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Actor Mugdha Godse, who will been seen in horror flick Help opposite Bobby Deol releasing next month, says she is a firm believer in ghosts and supernatural elements. "If there is good, there is bad and if there is God there has to be a devil," Mugdha, who is promoting the film at the IIFA weekend here. The 25-year-old actor, who is currently shooting for romantic comedy Will You Marry Me? flew in from Dubai to attend the Bollywood awards gala. Will you marry me? is directed by Aditya Dutt and Mugdha is paired opposite Rajeev Khandelwal. The model-turned-actress, who made her debut opposite Madhur Bhandarkar's critically acclaimed film Fashion, said she felt she was attempting a horror genre too early in her career. "I think it is a bit early for me to try this genre but I liked the script and I am a fan of horror flicks. If I get scared any body could," she said. Mugdha brushed aside apprehensions of co-star Bobby Deol not being a huge star. "It is just a question of one Friday. We can make a difference completely this time. Bobby has a legacy. If the script is strong nothing else matters. Even I am new and not big enough to draw crowds on my name. All actors go through such phases," she said. The actress who was last seen in a comedy All the Best, wants to experiment with all the genres. "Different genres require different set of energies. Lot of energy is required for comedies while for a glamorous role you need to be yourself. Horror requires lot of patience," she said. — PTI
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Although it's a new experience for her, Hollywood actress Jennifer Love Hewitt is enjoying her single status. The Ghost Whisperer star, who broke up with beau Jamie Kennedy in March after dating him for an year, is currently not romantically involved with anyone and insists she is enjoying the single life. "My love life is just me, and I'm very happy about it. I've not done the single thing very much, as you know, and I'm happy to do it," Hewitt said. "I vajazzle (crystal decoration) more for myself, so I have that secret sparkle that no one knows about," she added. The 31-year-old beauty is now using her single lifestyle for her new book, the sequel to her love guide The Day I Shot Cupid. "It's going to be about loving yourself. I figured out in the last one I wrote a lot about how to get a man to fall in love with you but not very much about how, if you don't love yourself, that's not going to happen," Hewitt said. — PTI
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Picks & piques
Prakash Jha has made several films showcasing the criminality inherent in his home state. From Damul, his debut, to Apaharan and Ganga Jal, his films have a searing honesty that is hard to ignore. They are all larger than life in depiction, yet rooted in a charming rusticity that magnifies its force. Jha's latest Rajneeti is a searing indictment of the politics of goondaism. It's basically about politicians and mafia dons, two sides of the same coin, most may say! The screenplay by Jha himself and Anjum Rajabaly meshes together elements from the Godfather and our very own mythology Mahabharat to tell a scintillating tale of political families caught in the mire of unrestrained ambition and lust for power. Samar (Ranbir) is studying Victorian literature and has a steady girlfriend while his much more volatile brother Prithviraj (Arjun Rampal) is following in the family tradition of politics. Manoj Bajpayee plays an older cousin who is hoping to wear the mantle after his ailing father steps out of the race. But there's plenty of competition in the family itself. His father's brother is also in the running along with his two sons Samar and Prithviraj and their stepbrother (Ajay Devgn) who happens to be a Dalit Leader. The plot gets quite murky and complicated with bloodlines crossing across caste and sect and causing mayhem. It's a steady stream of atrocities thereafter. Every relationship is played around with, sacred ties are broken and feelings are neutered in the run-up for the coveted kursi. Lawlessness reigns and terror is the stick used to win against all odds. Relentless and persevering, Jha creates a vicious cycle of dynasty and caste politics leading up to power lust and dominion in order to expose the unprincipled, entirely selfish and egoistic trip that politicians take in their thirst for unbridled power. Of course there are far too many characters populating the narrative and too many machinations at play so that even a nearly three-hour runtime appears to run short. Powerful dialogues and great performances by almost all the members of the cast make the film riveting to watch. It's the constant harping about the negatives in politics that creates a slag that is detrimental to the overall enjoyment. The characters are also a bit too flaky to be realistic or memorable. The nuances are missing and subtlety is pretty much a bad word here. Even the execution of the climax appears hurried, there is very little time for set-up and the development is rudimentary. The breathing space between cataclysmic events is also too little. Jha understands the milieu and it shows in the writing and the performances but his attempt to cram-in every interesting tit-bit and contemporary twists makes the film a bit too convoluted and manipulated to appeal to those with more refined tastes. johnsont307@gmail.com |
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Tarot talk
Aries: The Princess of Cups brings you your truth, hopes & desires. Professionally, you will make important contacts, but will have to wait for things to unfold. Personally, you might be weighed down by responsibilities. A relative will share your burden and ease you out. Beware of backache. Tip of the week: Don't be enthusiastic in finalising a particular deal. Lucky colour: Pink.
Gemini: Seven Golden Cups full of light greet you with happiness. You will be surprised by unexpected good news about your work and personal life. You can expect a new romantic interest too! Give the relationship some time and see how things shape up. If you are feeling low then meditate. Tip: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Sea green. Cancer: The Five of Pentacles brings many opportunities in your life. People working from home will be able to expand their business. Those in jobs will receive good news too! Handle financial negotiations well to avoid misunderstandings. Be ready to fall in love as someone special walks into your life. Tip: Take one step at a time and avoid being hurried and over anxious. Lucky colour: Yellow.
Leo: You
have drawn the Magician card. Discussions related to business expansion
and fighting financial woes will keep you on your toes. On the personal
front, do not shun away your partner's problems. Be compassionate and
solve the issues amicably. Stay happy. Tip: Be positive; you can
make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Virgo: You draw Six of Wands so friends could get on your nerves. You will be surprised by some unexpected professional progress and a booming business. This is a good time to mend ailing relationships. Just go ahead and sort out all the issues. You will discuss new plans with your partner. Tip: Instead of worrying; infuse your efforts into decisive action and professional achievements. Lucky colour: Red. Libra: The karmic Wheel of fortune turns in your favour. Personally, this is a great time to introduce the one you love to your parents and cement the relationship. An overseas travel is on the cards. Money may be a little slow; avoid being extravagant. Beware of joint pains; visit a doctor. Tip: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confuse yourself. Lucky colour: Purple. Scorpio: You draw Two of Wands to invoke mental power and intelligence. Someone will help you collect money that is owned to you. You will get together with an acquaintance on a partnership. You will be able to make some positive changes at work, which will turn your returns lucrative. Tip: Do not expect too much from others. Lucky colour: Blue. Sagittarius: The Princes of Cups reveals this is the week when you would need to take quick decisions and even, quicker action. An enticing professional opportunity will renew your determination to work twice as hard. You will be able to share your deepest feelings with your best friend. Avoid eating or drinking out. Your health may be bothersome. Tip: Listen to others point of view and give them some leeway. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Capricorn:
Nine Golden Cups greets you with happiness. Money may be a little slow in
the beginning. But things will turn around by the weekend and you will
rake in the moolah. You may feel hurt because your partner is ignoring
you. Instead of fighting, talk and resolve the problem. Tip:
Meditation will bring in mental peace & comfort. Aquarius: The Lovers inspire you for plenty of change and adjustments this week. Professionally, don't try to assess situations too fast lest your judgment falls flat. People who are single will meet their dream partner soon. This is a good time to go out with pals and unwind. Avoid backbiting at home. Tip: Be firm and stand your ground. Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: Citric green.
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From fashion to films, why are we not seeing a lot of Amisha Patel? She smiles, "I have always done films people stopped me from doing. I was asked why was I doing Honeymoon Travels, Humraaz or for that matter Gadar. I went ahead and did what I felt was right," offers Amisha who simply adores the cool, peppy and affordable Jack and Jones. 
Two-film-old Nikhil Dwivedi has shunned rumours that he bared all in the forthcoming movie Raavan as 'only speculations'.
Prakash Jha's much-awaited Rajneeti is in the theatres and hopes are flying high already. Kites has become an almost forgotten chapter and it's now time for the new release on the block to prove its mettle at the box office. The alleged Rs 63 crore price tag for the film will, in fact, be a major hurdle to cross. Initial trailers have generated audience interest though. The path is clear of all obstacles, yet will the single horse run away a true winner? Only the audience can tell for sure. As far as aesthetics go, Rajneeti is a commendable effort and needs to be seen!
Film: Rajneeti
Taurus: The
Magus blesses you with sensitivity and creativity in whatever you do. You
can expect some very fortunate changes in your business and finance, as
new opportunities fall into your kitty. A delayed payment will arrive
within this week. Your relationship may go through a rough patch. Take it
easy! Tip: Take things one at a time instead of multi pronged
attacks. Lucky colour: Crimson.
Pisces:
You are swift
& strong like The Knight of Wands. You will be surprised at the
unsolicited attention you receive from an acquaintance. Don't rush into
it. A profitable financial project and a spiritual journey keep you
busy. Take care of your eyes. Tip: Don't involve yourself in more
than one activity at a time. Lucky colour: Burgundy