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Visual tryst with great master
One photograph shows Sobha Singh with Prithvi Raj Kapoor, another one shows him addressing villagers in Himachal Pradesh. Then there's one clicked in a school and another one with foreign dignitaries, every picture gives an insight into the life of the legendary artist, Sobha Singh. A total of over 150 photographs of his, on display at the exhibition hall of the Punjab Kala Bhawan is like a journey back in time, giving his family and friends, art connoisseurs, art students and good number of visitors an opportunity to know more about him. If his pictures don't tell the complete story, then there are enough works by him on display that reinforce his greatness. The most famous works of his on Sikh Gurus are also here. On another wall are hung the famous paintings of Heer Ranjha, Sohni Mahiwal and Mumtaz Mahal. "He painted role models for people. From Sikh Gurus, whose sacrifice is unparalleled in the Indian history to Shaheed Bhagat Singh, he acknowledged all the great personalities. He even made a sculpture of the famed poetess Amrita Pritam," informs, Gurcharan Kaur, daughter of Sobha Singh. His works also underline his secular outlook. Prints of Jesus Christ, Lord Ram and lord Krishna, too, are a part of the exhibition. Coming back to the details of his life captured in photographs, the two juxtaposed pictures of Sobha Singh studio in his earlier days and in 1960's reflect his lifestyle. The latest among these is the one that shows the painting of Guru Ravi Dass by his bedside. "Till date, we haven't changed the setting of his room. The painting of Guru Ravi Dass was his last work and we preferred to let it be." The fact that Sobha Singh was a nature lover is also shown in the pictures. One can see him gardening, then in his orchards and even his kitchen garden. The photographs also show his popularity around the globe. A picture shows his work on Guru Gobind Singh being carried by people inside a Gurudwara in Birmingham. On till November 22
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Winners all the way
A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor,' goes an old English proverb. And this holds true for three of these entrepreneurs who made the most of the challenges that life posed, saw opportunity in adversity and carved a niche for themselves! Life cure
She got married young (at 18), had her first child (son) at 19 and second at 21. And it's only later that her true learning began. "I was bed-ridden at the age of 21 when I was supposed to be prancing around. My skin was appalling," says Betty Nangia, naturopath beauty consultant. "I went from doctor to doctor, from one parlour to another looking for a cure, but to no avail. Harassed but not disheartened, I decided to learn and cure myself," she avers. Betty started studying electro homeopathy. "I studied all that the course offered on herbs and it was not long before my skin started to clear. Soon after, I got cured of my slip disk problem and I could dance," shares Betty. But that is not where she stopped. "Armed with my new knowledge I started to help people with their problems, which grew on to a profitable business by and by," she says. Betty launched her complete skin and haircare range — Shimmer — last year. The fighter
Preetam Singh had a comfortable childhood, enjoyed his studies and luxuries that his doctor father's nursing home provided. But as luck would have it, they fell on bad times. "My father grew ill. And next three years ruined us. Our nursing home was sold, so was the car and house. We had to move to our village, Mauri, in Haryana. And the worst blow, my father passed away," shares Preetam. A student of class six, Preetam was left to fend for his family. "I started manual labour in the very school where I studied. I took on myself to provide for my family. While working on the road, I dreamt of my own car that I would be driving one day," says Preetam, with a faint smile. He worked as a labourer wherever a road was being laid or a house being built. But destiny gave him a chance to work with Gujarat Handicraft Association, where he learnt beadwork and later started his own unit. This earned him the much-needed money, which funded his and his sibling's education. Today, Preetam runs Deepali Handicrafts, which not only earns him a livelihood but also helps 25 widows who work with him. Worldly wise
David Messey's, however, is not so sad a story. Exasperated at not finding a fancy dress for his school-going daughter, the idea to have a store that promises dresses from all over the world hit upon him. "In such a big city as Chandigarh, not finding a decent dress for my daughter surprised me. Along with my wife, I designed the very first dress for our daughter and the rest is history," shares Messey. Today at Dolphin n Dolphin, Messeys along with their team create fancy dresses, be it famous personalities, landmarks or cartoons. "You name a dress and we will have it for you," shares Messey. Pondering over your challenges? Good luck, yours might be another |
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A new innings
A guitar replaces the leather ball, a cool grey shirt and denims take the place of sports jersey; and there are sneakers instead of sport shoes, the little nervousness we see on the field is done away with a charming smile. That’s another side of Brett Lee, unseen, unknown, uncomplicated, for he doesn’t strategise anything on the stage! From Brett, the cricketer to Brett the rockstar, the transformation has been fascinating just as the name of his rock band - White Shoe Theory. “The name didn’t require any brainstorming. Mick Vandon (his only band member) was sitting in a club with me, when we noticed that every other person was wearing white shoes except us, which was amusing. Hence the name, White Shoe Theory,” explains Brett, who was in the city on Friday to perform at Score, Sector 8. His role in the band is of a bass guitarist and lead singer. The decision to become a cricketer and take on the mike came at the same time. He has also been a member of another band, Six-And-A-Half. “Cricket, however happened first, since it was age-bound. Music comes with no preconditions. It gives me the freedom to explore myself as a singer at any point of time,” which is why he did an album with Asha Bhonsle and has now come up with a band. Even there are no set rules while choosing numbers. “We pick anything that has to do with our favourite rock music.” So far, they have performed in all the major metros in India and define their experience as awesome. Adds Brett, “Indians have a natural inclination towards music. It was over-whelming to see a houseful wherever we performed.” Out of the two roles of a singer and cricketer, he definitely likes the first. “I enjoy a huge fan base because I did well with the ball. Had it not been for cricket, I would have struggled as a singer.” And cricket, as the next topic of discussion, could not be avoided for too long with Brett Lee. Obviously, he’s disappointed with Kings XI suspension from IPL but has his options open. “I enjoyed being a part of Kings XI but since it’s no more a part of IPL, I won’t mind joining any other franchise.” How can Brett not talk about his favourite contemporary Sachin Tendulkar? “You don’t need stats to prove that he is the best. The very fact that he has been on the field for 21 years now is confirmation enough. And it’s always a pleasure to ball to him.” We too try to ball a googly just before he signs off - how does it feel to be known as one of the most glamourous sportspersons? He replies candidly, “It’s embarrassing but I would love people to know me as a guitarist as well.” He certainly has that look! ashima@tribunemail.com
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From the heart
The ‘can’t get more candid than this’ rapper Bohemia, in the city to check out the newly introduced concept of Karaoke at Downgate, Restro Bar Panchkula, spells music the way he wants. “Music is a very ‘each to his own’ thing. To me, it is my alter ego, which means there is nothing fake in it,” he says taking a dig at the Bollywood music. There are no mincing words for Bohemia! “I don’t quiet like the Bollywood kichidi. When you make music that would please a lady on the street, an IITan sitting in a swanky office, a college-going boy, a homemaker, the end result is music with a bit of everything and nothing in totality. I am being approached by many Bollywood directors, if something works where I am allowed to be myself, I wouldn’t mind giving it a shot.” Empty mind is a devil’s workshop. How many times have you found yourself in a situation when you are trying to get the devil to do better things? Ask Bohemia, the guy finds himself dealing with such a situation more than often. “I have to do something all the time. I go to my studio if I am bored. I need to keep the creative stream in me in motion,” he tries to smile with this statement. So, after a fruitful association with Universal Music, Bohemia is now all revved up to get his production company YS Productions into action. “I am out and out excited about YS Productions, which will give a platform to youngsters who want to explore desi rock or are into it already,” offers Bohemia enjoying the success of his album ‘Da Rap Star’. Expect him to get back into his ‘say it from the heart baby’ mould. Here he goes. “Most companies exploit youngsters, they are real suckers for money. YS Production ensures youngsters reach somewhere in life, do something that is taken note of. The company will be based in India and California.” Desi rock, Oh! We have enough of it in India as well! “Really, the sarcasm slides in (never mess with a man who bows down to only music) Do people even know what desi rock is? It is a culture, a way of life. Bohemia stands for a culture. I don’t put up a face.” Rarely do we come across someone who has touched the zenith of modesty! “This is the problem, why can’t we say what we want to. What do we fear? It is this fear that we get into out lifestyle, and reflects in whatever we do.” Besides, there is logic behind everything. “We cannot expect a singer of foreign origin giving you a ‘shayari’ album, similarly living in India overpowered by Bollywood influence, cannot give a good rap. There is no dearth of talent though,” he unwillingly sums up.
jasmine@tribunemail.com |
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Write talk
From the Vedic era till today, women have had their fair share of writings. And to highlight their contribution to literature is the focus of 'Celebrating Women's Literature', an event orgainsed by Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi, which began at the UT Guest House-6 on Saturday. This two-day event will focus on women's contribution to the literary world. Vedic verses composed by women writers was the subject of Anirudh Joshi's talk on the first day. "Women enjoyed an exalted position in the household as well as society in earlier times. The issue of education had the lawmakers divided in the smriti kaal," shares Joshi. Vivek Sachdeva chose women's contribution to cinema. He talked about women actors from 1930s, music directors as well as technicians and their valuable contribution to the world of cinema. "Women have played a vital role in cinematic journey." He shares. Rani Balbir Kaur, theatre person, brought in contributions of women playwrights who have been actors, directors as well writers. "I would say today is the time when women are evolving. Their impact in drama is juxtaposed with women waking up to their rights," says Kaur who quoted from the works of Shabana Azmi, Nadira Zaheer Babbar and Zohra Sahgal. "Reinterpretation of men's work by women is one important genre," she avers. Nitoo Das, author of Boki, virtual artists collective poetry, Chicago (2008), explains the process of creation of her women characters. "Some of my characters are fictional, others real. My effort has been to retrieve voices of women and get them literary space," says Nitoo. Mapreet Kaur's talk centred around voice of women diaspora. "The diaspora is very active. The way their works are perceived has immensely changed for the better," she says. The gathering saw a mix of men as well as women. "Our endeavour is not to segregate women writings but highlight their contribution," says Manju Jaidka, chairperson, Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi. Day two of the event will have SS Noor, Paul Kaur, Sunita Jain and Vanita talk about women's writings. mona@tribunemail.com
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Sufi delight
But for the popularity of Punjabi epic Heer Waris, which has been influencing the vernacular literary scene and minds of Punjabis for almost four centuries, the Punjabi language could have been on the verge of extinction in Pakistan by now. The growing trend of opting for Urdu and English language by modern families could fasten this process," says Sufi maestro Ustad Khadim Hussain Warsi. In the city with his disciple Husnain Akbar for two Sufi music concerts on the invitation of Punjab Sahit Akademi, he shares his views on Sufi and folk music culture in Pakistan. Known for soulful recital of Heer Waris in an inimitable style in Pakistan and India, both had the privilege to perform at the mazaar of Syed Waris Shah. And they, like many more, worship it as a devotional Sufi literary treatise. Adds Warsi, "The Heer Waris epic has contributed to the survival and propagation of Punjabi language." Notably, Punjabi literature is written and published in Shahmukhi (Urdu) script. "The poetic content of the epic is so felicitous that the strains of deep Sufiana mysticism and romanticism of surrender, contemporary life as well as culture and ethos of the rural life of the region jostle against each other in amazing profusion," says Hussain, a postgraduate in Punjabi. He adds that Lata Mangeshker, Mohammad Rafi and Hans Raj Hans are very popular in Pakistan, and youngsters are keen to learn classical, ghazal and Sufi music.
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Bird WATCH
My father, late Sardar Man Mohan Singh, had been summoned for an early morning meeting with the PM and what better way to strike a rapport with her than stir the subject of birds! Much to my father's delight, Mrs Gandhi put the files aside. She proceeded on a lengthy monologue on the partridges at her Lutyen's residence, the nooks and corners in her garden where they raised broods and then touched upon another confidant of her green durbar, the Black redstart. The redstart's migration from Ladakh, the Himalyas and Central Asia to across the Indian sub-continent included 1, Akbar Road, as a favoured `5-star getaway' from the icy heights. Mrs Gandhi would write exultant letters to the legendary ornithologist, Dr Salim Ali, announcing the arrival of the redstart and singing its praises. The dapper black and orange-chestnut bird with a ‘shivering tail’ evoked a schoolgirlish passion in the stately Mrs Gandhi. It is little wonder that the Tricity's gardens, too, attract the redstart, one of the earliest garden birds to migrate every autumn. Quite like the punctual little schoolboy, the redstart was first spotted at the Shiwalik Golf Course, Chandimandir, on October 7, 2009, and then again this year at the same spot on October 9. Given to patiently perching and pouncing on hapless insects, the redstart is also a confiding bird in human presence. Ornithologists will come and go but none will match Dr Ali, who so acutely penned a bird's character. Sample Dr Ali's take on the redstart in his standard reference, The Book of Indian Birds. “A slim active bird, constantly shivering its tail (orange-chestnut) and dipping forepart of body. Flits from perch to perch on roof-top, boulder or branch, ceaselessly shivering its tail. Food: Insects and spiders usually picked off the ground. Winged insects sometimes captured in the air like a flycatcher. Usual call, a sharp mousy whit...whit...whit etc, reminiscent of a squeaking unoiled bicycle wheel revolving at moderate speed. In the breeding season, the male utters a pleasant little song,'' wrote Dr Ali. Adds KS Gopi Sundar, Research Associate (India), International Crane Foundation, “The migratory habits of the redstart are not studied very well in India. They do appear to be faithful to wintering sites in India each year.'' Ornithologist and author, Lt Gen (retd) Baljit Singh, is missing the redstart at his Sector 16, Chandigarh, residence this autumn. “Ornithologists state that the redstart’s tail shudders more when it spots prey. But I think the tail is constantly shuddering because it is a happy bird,'' says Lt Gen Singh. The redstart's migration has been mapped across India since autumn 2009 by MigrantWatch at the National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore, with the help of a network of birdwatchers and NGOs. The redstart's fate will not trouble Mrs Gandhi in her eternal sleep. Birdlife International estimates the redstart's global population at a stirring 25 to a 100 million. However, Mrs Gandhi - ever the committed conservationist - came from a dying breed. Her love for the wild had a lineage tracking back to Jawaharlal Nehru and emperors, Babur and Jahangir, who wrote so eloquently about Indian birds in their memoirs. PM Dr Manmohan Singh and his predecessor, AB Vajpayee, are birds of a different feather. They may not even care to distinguish between a sparrow and a robin, much less command Indira's passions!
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SkodaAuto India announces launch of the 1st SUV in its product line- The Yeti. Borrowing from the illustrious Škoda lineage, the Yeti integrates some of the best solutions from each model in the Škoda range to offer a unique mix of safety, functionality and comfort in a signature modern exterior and interior design. The highly anticipated Yeti, Škoda’s international best seller is attractively priced at 14.98 lakhs (Ex Showroom Maharashtra). With the launch of Škoda Yeti, ŠkodaAuto India expands its product range and hence catering to a wider target audience. Ever since the first showcase of the Yeti at the AutoExpo early this year, the Škoda Yeti has captured the imagination of auto enthusiasts and customers alike. The Škoda Yeti has all the makings of a cult car in India as it offers comfort & ride quality of a premium sedan while offering fun, technology and functionality of a premium SUV. The smartly priced Škoda Yeti will attract India’s young and increasingly auto-enthusiastic consumers by offering additional technology and multi-role capability. According to Ashutosh Dixit, sr. general manager, sales & marketing, ŠkodaAuto India said, “The Skoda Yeti is packed with the latest in technology; it will give the experience of an off roader combined with the adaptability of a compact SUV and comfort of a premium sedan.” He further added “In the compact SUV segment, the Yeti has set new standards internationally, due to its off-road design features, high quality materials, intelligent ergonomics and outstanding equipment. We are confident that Škoda Yeti will alter the perspective associated with traditional SUVs that consume more fuel and emit high emissions and offer a completely new SUV concept for India.” As per Vijay Passi, principal dealer, Krishna Auto Sales, “ The Yeti gives the people a chance to own a car that serves the purpose of being both a city as well as a fun car for holiday trips.” The Škoda Yeti is powered by a 2.0 Litre TDI CR engine, which generates maximum power of 140 bhp at 4200 rpm. The fully synchronized six-speed manual transmission gives complete power and control to the driver. The high-pressure direct injection technology system promises optimized performance, great mileage of 17.67Kmpl as per ARAI, combined with excellent. — TNS
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Frame by frame
Though there's a variety waiting to be explored right from wooden to ceramic, silver, gold and even plastic according to wikipedia, one of the earliest frame examples was a discovery made in an Egyptian tomb dating back to 2nd century A.D. in which a fayum mummy portrait was discovered at Hawara still within its wooden frame.
Evolving with time, the function of the frame changed from merely a decorative boundary to protect and emphasise the work it held. And it was in the 14th and 15th century Italy, that we first had a real picture frame. By Renaissance people who commissioned for picture frames indicated power and wealth since photo frames were an expensive affair and involved skilled workmanship. However, today we have a variety from hi-end to the cheaper ones that can be bought dime a dozen. The easiest availability is of glass photo frames, which is easily available across city rehri markets, but for the elegant ones who have to scout shops and exhibitions. Fabindia has some antique looking photo frames in wood that are hand-painted. Graceful yet trendy these picture frames make for beautiful pieces that would surely add colour to your home décor. Dream home store in Sector 26 too has some wonderful variety of photo frames. From wooden to ceramic here you can also pick glass frames with white doves or small flowers. Gold and silver frames are the most expensive ones but these days you can also have designer, leather, brass, camel and hand-made photo frames. Rosebys too has some exciting but few photo frames. In stone these photo frames sure make for elegant pieces. Other innovative photo frames include rustic wood, antique frames, fancy hand made photo frames, ethnic wall hanging, beaded, collage frames, iron and aluminium, classic frame, custom frames, personalised frames and frames with cartoon and jungle themes. jigyasachimra@tribunemail.com
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Stephen Marshall, Global Brand Ambassador, Dewar's, shared his passion and innate knowledge about Scotch whisky with whisky aficionados in Chandigarh. Renowned world over for promoting and educating audience on a global scale about Scotch whisky, Stephen Marshall treated the guests to the art of whisky tasting and blending and the exceptional nature of Dewar's Blended Scotch Whisky. At the session, Stephen Marshall said, "Dewar's Discovery has been introduced to thrill whisky enthusiasts with the difference of Double-Ageing process of Dewar's 12, through the innate skill of whisky tasting and blending session." Dewar's master blender harmonises the individual flavours and aromas to achieve the perfectly balanced Scotch Dewar's 12 Years Old. The master blender creates an exquisite blend from a selection of over forty whiskies around Scotland and ages them again for a period of six months in exclusively reserved vintage oak casks. Dewar's unique double ageing process serves to give DEWAR'S 12 a smooth and mellow taste with a deep, rich amber colour. A full and fruity nose, reminiscent of sultanas, raisins and Scottish heather; it is rich and honeyed on the tongue, and boasts a rounded, medium to full body, with a long, full flavoured and lingering finish. — TNS
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Picks & piques
This week Guzaarish is Sanjay leela Bhansali’s attempt to redeem himself and his talent from the quagmire he himself created from a hopeless debacle called Sawariya. Guzaarish stars Hrithik as Ethan Mascarenhas, a quadriplegic paralysed from the neck down and bedridden for nearly 12-14 years following a near fatal accident during one of his magic shows. At his side is Sofia D’souza (Aishwariya Rai Bachchan), his nurse and caretaker through the 12 years of static life. Following his fatal accident Ethan takes up a new profession that of a radio jockey and he appears to be successful at it too. Yet he wants to end his life. That is basically the bottom line here. His Guzaarish to the courts to grant him his wish for Ethanasia (that’s how he coins it). There’s not much of a story to tell. The film doesn’t really focus on any particular issue. Everything that transpires is conveniently orchestrated to suit the end. An injudicious mix of Whose life is it anyway?, The Sea inside and The Diving Bell and The Butterfly this film has little original to call it’s own other than the love angle between Sofia and Ethan. Even that appears planted to appease the romantically inclined audience. The narrative jumps from one point to another without any real exposition. We never get to know how Ethan got to become a Radio jockey? How he manages to retain such great audio faculty despite a deteriorating overall condition (that’s the doctor’s opinion)? How his useless limbs show no signs of muscular deterioration even after 12 years of unuse? How his skin is so unblemished and pristine with not even a dark circle under his eyes? How is he so full of energy when the doctor (a hammy Suheil Seth) claims his internal organs are failing? How come he lives in a ridiculously large house when, as his lawyer Bhawani(Shernaz Patel) claims in court, he is up to his neck in debt? Why is he not angry with his friend / competitor (Ash Chandler) who was instrumental in causing the accident? Why does he impart his magic training to this very man’s son (Aditya Roy Kapoor) who has become his protégé? Sofia is supposedly his nurse – what are her qualifications for this job? Considering the clothes she wears she appears to be a mere caregiver. The anger she exhibits when she learns of Ethan’s appeal for Euthanasia plays false. Why would Sofia a married woman (even with a wandering wife beater husband) fall in love with a man who can be of little use to her? And why does Sofia wear those ridiculous costumes straight out of a fancy dress competition? The questions keep cropping up in scene after scene. If Ethan could be taken to court in a car without being strapped in then he could just as well be taken outdoors in a wheelchair, by his oh-so-very dedicated nurse. Why did he need to be cooped-in in that monstrous house? Why does he continue to live in that house when he is so very much in debt? Ethan’s physical condition and disabilities keep changing to suit SLB’s weird fantasy-logic. And how did Ethan develop his magic skills? Where did he learn them? If SLB is to be believed, it’s an inborn talent. There is development after development without any valid exposition or a background to give it credence. Even the relationships appear to be conjured out of a fairytale. The sequences, which highlight Ethan’s magician skills are so heavy on c.g.i that they appear impractical for a magician to perform. Sanjay Leela Bhansali creates a world that is completely out-of-sync with real time or real anything. And his actors too revel in that artifice. The tone is copiously melodramatic and the tenor is theatrical. Hrithik performs Ethan as though he was on an adrenaline high. It’s a showy performance meant to overwhelm, not convince. Aishwariya is just an attractive foil, there, merely to add to the surround beauty of the frame in which Hrithik is the centrepiece. Her overdressed, over made-up look in the film makes her look like a matron. It also hinders her movements in the impromptu dance she performs in a restaurant while on that one outing to the court. Nafisa Ali puts on a convincing act as a crooner and mother to Ethan while Shernaz Patel as Ethan’s lawyer friend and Aditya Roy Kapoor, his protégé, give the best performances in the film. Sudeep Chatterjee’s camerawork is extremely kind to the star actors as well as the scenery that inhabits this alternate universe. Every frame, as is wont for a Sanjay Leela Bhansali film, is eloquently grandiose. The dialogues and songs have more of English than Hindi in it and that is as expected especially since the film is set in Goa. Otherwise, but for the one hauntingly beautiful song, ‘Thodisi mirchi hai’ this film would have been an entirely forgettable experience. johnsont307@gmail.com
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Pamela Anderson dancing to the tune of Dhak Dhak Karne Laga in a miniscule sarong on Bigg Boss and the I&B's ministry order to push the show's timings beyond prime time after charges of "obscenity", have helped the popular Indian reality TV show gain global headlines. The entry of the Hollywood bombshell and the mob that welcomed her at the Mumbai airport had made news in international newspapers like the Guardian and New York Post. Wall Street Journal is now debating whether the Baywatch babe is "too much for Indian prime time" given the government labelling the content of the show "objectionable" and giving it a virtual A certificate. British tabloids like the Daily Mail and Sun are following the 43-year-old's antics in the house closely, from her entry into the house in a white saree to a sunbath taken with actor Ashmit Patel who is a self-confessed fan. Anderson has been flown in to boost audiences for the fourth season of Bigg Boss, hosted by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, which has already caused scandals with onscreen relationships and verbal spats between participants. The show reportedly got it's highest TRP's the day Anderson entered the house, beating the record set by the viewing figures of rival show Kaun Banega Crorepati, hosted by Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan. The Playboy Playmate is reportedly getting a whopping Rs 2.5 crore for her three-day stint in the house.Colors had earlier approached British actress and Playboy model Kelly Brook for the show, but she had turned down the offer. Anderson is the second Western celebrity to appear on the show, late reality star Jade Goody also starred on the 2008 series, only to leave soon after entering the house after receiving her cancer diagnosis from doctors. With the Mumbai High Court staying the ministry's directive to reschedule the show's timing, Anderson's antics are now a part of Indian TV's prime time. — PTI
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He is the Kapoor scion who shot to superstardom at a young age, but Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor wants to be rid of the title of 'youth icon' and unapologetically enjoy the perks of fame, including dating gorgeous women. The 28-year-old actor said that the title is merely a burden and he does not want a "Jesus" like persona. "I do feel burdened by this youth icon image. I am not Jesus Christ and I don't want people to idolise me as an icon who represents the youth. I am a human being at the end of the day and I can commit mistakes because I am young," Kapoor said. The actor who often grabs headlines for his romantic liaisons, be it Deepika Padukone or Katrina Kaif, says that he wants to enjoy his youth. "I am 28. So I am open to dating and I enjoy that. I am linked to some one or the other every day and I have accepted it as a occupational hazard but it irks me when my personal life overshadows my work," said Ranbir with his father Rishi Kapoor. The actor made his acting debut with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's mega-budget film Saawariya in 2007, which bombed at the box office, but Ranbir was noticed for his performance. The actor went on to taste commercial and critical success with films like Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani, Wake Up Sid and Rajneeti. "I was just 23 when I was offered the role and I grew up in a family, which had a history in film-making. I was heart broken that my film bombed at the box office but then I thought that my career has just started and that stopped me from sinking into depression," said the actor. Ranbir said that he wants to avoid stereotypes with his chosen roles and lady luck has helped him in his bid to be a versatile actor. "I am not trying to set any image. Be it a chocolate boy, action hero or boy next door. The role selection was spontaneous and everything fell into place at the right time," said Ranbir. The actor said that he is not concerned about making money because his aim is to be known as a good actor. "I like getting up in the morning and going to sets. Fame and money never excited me," said the actor who started his showbiz career as an assistant director. The young star now hopes to turn director. "From the beginning I was attracted to direction, as you see the world come alive on the sets, which is an enthralling experience. I will definitely try my hands on direction when I have a story to tell people," said Ranbir. The actor is a self-confessed fan of Bollywood's 'Badshah' Shahrukh Khan. But Ranbir says that he will not be starstruck if offered a film with his idol. "I am a big fan of SRK, but I will not sign a film just so that I can share the screen with him. If the script does not interest me, I will say no," said the actor. — PTI
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Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe considers fame an "unfortunate byproduct" of his acting career. The Gladiator star hates the celebrity culture and especially the attention received by his young children Charles, six, and four-year-old Tennyson with his wife, singer-and-actress Danielle Spencer, reported Contactmusic. "Some people believe celebrity is a power that should be used. Ultimately, your dollars are more powerful. I'm famous for making movies. Celebrity just happens to be an unfortunate byproduct of what I do," said the actor. "Whatever used to be called mystery, you're not allowed to have that anymore. So there's a whole bunch of blank space that's filled in with stuff that fills up pages of newspapers. Which is not real, and you know it's not real, and I know it's not real. And readers don't really care because that's what they're interested in," said the Oscar-nominated actor. The 46-year-old star has also compared being interviewed by journalists as being the same as "torture". "If I ever was going to torture somebody, I'd put them in a room where they can't leave and have someone new come in every three minutes and ask the same question over a number of days and then weeks," said the actor. — PTI
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West is West', the much awaited sequel to the cult comedy East is East, will kick off the 41st edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2010 which begins on November 22. Director of the film festival, S M Khan, said the movie will be the first screening of the extravaganza which will be inaugurated by chief guest, Indian film legend Yash Chopra, and actor Ajay Devgn. The cross-cultural comedy starring Om Puri, Aqib Khan, Linda Bassett, Jimi Mistry and Illa Arun, picks up where East is East ends. The 1999 film had vividly charted the conflicts of a mixed-race Pakistani-English family and went on to win a BAFTA for Outstanding British film. West is West directed by Andy de Emmony premiered at the London Film Festival last month and sees the return of Bollywood veteran Puri as the charismatic George Khan, determined to instil some discipline and cultural identity into his son Sajid, played by newcomer Aqib Khan. The film sees Sajid, the youngest son played by Aqib Khan, introduced to the father's first family in Pakistan. — PTI
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Aishwarya Rai says life has been extremely fast-paced since the day she chose to study science in high school. Now the internationally renowned actor is waiting to take a much-needed break before entering another year full of film projects. "I keep joking that the pace of my life has been so hectic ever since high school. From Class 12, when I was a science student, till date it has only been a hectic pace and that's the only pace perhaps my body knows now," Aishwarya said over phone from Mumbai. This year has been particularly hectic for the 36-year-old actor thanks to the release of her films - Raavan, Robot, Action Replayy and Guzaarish in quick succession. There has been so much jet-setting in and out of the country and travelling within India for the promotion of her films that Aishwarya fell slightly ill. But she is not complaining. "Come on! I'm okay now. If you think work pressure has affected me, how would you explain Hrithik (Roshan) getting unwell after doing just two films in two years? I just got a day's fever and I'm all raring to go," she said. Aishwarya is now looking forward to some relaxing time. "It's almost the end of November and very little of December is left. I had deliberately kept a little part of December off...because since 2008 I have been working continuously. "Doing five films - Raavan, Raavanan, Robot, Action Replayy and Guzaarish - has been mammoth. Hrithik keeps joking about my plight and says he did just Guzaarish all this while, apart from Kites. But, yes, I did all that work and also promoted those films. Now I need a break ...so a bit of an off in December and then further work next year," she said. She is still in talks with filmmakers on her future projects and will be able to announce developments around February next year."There have been talks. Producers are working out the scheduling, and then the announcements will be made. I was going to sign up for two films to do this winter, but I declined them because I had commitments with all my directors of the film releases this year. The next lot of offers will materialise post-February and March, and will continue beyond next Christmas," said Aishwarya. So she wants to make the most of her holiday period with husband Abhishek Bachchan and all her family members."Spending time together itself is quite a holiday for me. It doesn't matter where we are. We will just be happy to make that time together and that we will make sure we do," she said. For now, Aishwarya is just waiting to get the audience reaction to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's just released Guzaarish, in which she plays Sofia, a nurse to a paraplegic essayed by Hrithik. "It is my final release of this year...and what a special film to share with our audience! My character Sofia is very special. The kind of capacity, strength, resilience, commitment, empathy and unconditional love that she has for a patient just takes this character to a different realm altogether," said Aishwarya. — IANS
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Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon, who looked ravishing while sashaying down the ramp for designer Nivedita Saboo at the ongoing Pune Fashion Week (PFW), revealed that the reason behind her fitness is her two kids. "My fitness mantra is being hands on with my kids, don't leave the maids to do it and believe me you'll get back to your shape faster than you thought you would. That's what I did," Raveena said. The actress, who married distributor Anil Thadani in 2004, gave birth to a baby girl called Rasha March 16, 2005. She became mother again to a baby boy this time named Ranbir July 12, 2007. As the showstopper of Saboo's show, Raveena sported a colourful flaired, long dress with sheer full sleeves and slight embellishments. Asked if she was comfortable walking the ramp, the actress expressed: "I was very comfortable in this outfit. I did a little jig on the ramp as well, that showed my comfort level. Otherwise we need to suck our stomach in and you can't even breathe while walking on the ramp, but that didn't happen here. It was all fine and easy." "What I liked about her clothes was that basically the fact that there was something for everyone. For every kind of person and every person. There was versatility in the collection," she added. Saboo's collection was inspired by the Moroccon culture. What was unique about it was that the entire collection was developed from scratch, starting from dyeing, printing and ormentation of the fabric with Moroccon motifs. The look was more cosmopolitan than region-specific. Different styles of blouses like halter-neck, back button and high neck were seen. The colour palette was vibrant with colours like pink, bottle green and orange but also had touches of beige and brown. The garments were made of chiffon, silk, lycra and satin. "I developed the fabric from the scratch. Nothing sourced out and that's why this collection is very close to my heart. It was a fabulous experience," Saboo said. — IANS
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Popular television actor Ronit Roy earned rave reviews for his performance in the internationally acclaimed movie Udaan, but he is not interested in doing something similar because he doesn't want to be typecast. "My principle of working is very upright - the basic ground rule that I have laid for myself is that I don't want to repeat my roles ever. I want to try different roles and challenge myself," Ronit said in an interview. "It fills me with excitement to try different roles which give me a platform to challenge my limitations,” he said. Ronit started his career with the movie Jaan Tere Naam in 1992 and later did films like Hulchul, Sainik and Dosti Ki Saugandh, but couldn't make it big in Bollywood. He then moved to the small screen and became a household name after featuring in Ekta Kapoor's serials Kasautii Zindagii Kay and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thhi. The 45-year-old, who has played a wide variety of roles, will be seen as a lawyer in Sony's new series Adaalat, which goes on air Saturday. "Adaalat is a court room drama where I play a lawyer. My character KD Pathak is not a boring and serious kind of lawyer. The one hour show falls under the thriller genre and will solve new cases in every episode." Ronit insists he wants to break the serious image of lawyers with his show. "I am set to break the mould of lawyers' serious image with my role. I want to show it to the world that lawyers can be fun loving and lively." Some of the cases solved on the show are inspired by real life, said the actor. "Some of the cases, which will be solved on the show are influenced by real stories, rest are fictional. We are also planning to take up serious issues like child molestation, rape, harassment on the show." He is also associated with two international projects. "I am working on two international projects - one is British and the other is a Hollywood action film. I cannot reveal much about them as of now, but they are not cross-over films. They are purely commercial projects.” — IANS
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Oscar winning actress Halle Berry would be happy if her daughter Nahla wanted to be an actress, but insists it is too early to map out the youngster's life. "You know, that's really up to her. That's years away. She's only two," contactmusic.com quoted her as saying. The 44-year-old, who is currently dating French actor Olivier Martinez, admitted she will always be close to former partner Gabriel. "Look, eventually you realise you are not meant to go the distance with everybody. But we were meant to bring this amazing little person into the world. And I think that's why we came together. And because of that, we are going to be together forever, all three of us," she said. — IANS
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Scottish actor Gerard Butler has a secret admirer in the 2010 Playboy Playmate of the Year, American model Hope Dworaczyk. Dworaczyk has a soft corner for the Law Abiding Citizen star, and says she would love to meet him because she thinks he has a "mysterious" side. "I'd really like to meet Gerard Butler. I think he's really charming. I don't know if he's my ideal man, but I certainly find him really charming. I think it's the mysterious part in him that's attractive, but I can't pin down what it is exactly," she said. — IANS
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Tarot talk
TAURUS: The Wheel of Fortune spins in some good fortune. Those in politics will find themselves in the limelight. Your career will be highlighted. Dress in black while going out for dinner. Romantic life is picking up slowly. TIP: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky Colour: Peacock Green. GEMINI: You draw Knight of Pentacles is an indication that you would be brimming with creativity. Students desirous of joining training courses will get admission to these on merit basis. Unmarried will get proposal. An important week for concluding pending jobs. Family affairs are neglected. TIP: Don’t reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky Colour: Emerald. CANCER: Ten of pentacles bond extremely well for relationship and romance. Profitable week for big folk. Working women may face strain and heavy work at office. Go ahead with your new plans. Be sure that your bank balance is not disturbed. An Arian friend poses you some problems. TIP: Don’t try to end the entire deadlock at one go. Lucky Colour: Aqua Blue. LEO: You draw The World. Love relationship is bubbling with excitement. Those suffering from irregular B.P. and body-ache will have a relaxing week. Businessmen seem to be doing fine. A social get together is indicated on Friday. TIP: Don’t get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time. VIRGO: Your card The Universe reveals professional endeavors could be the focus of this week. You may need to join a health club. Do not enter into situation of conflicts. Financially the goddess of wealth shower blessings on you. Hidden force may disturb on Thursday. TIP: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. LIBRA: You draw The Moon rumors and gossip in office would take up most of your time and attention this week. Examine legal interpretation. Avoid making fool of others. Property dispute may enter into court. Work-wise you are satisfied. Partners are reasonable. Avoid making new deal. Kids are aggressive. TIP: Handle your projects secretly and carefully. SCORPIO: The queen of cups says you would enter this week raring to go and filled with strength and stamina. Do not avoid work and responsibility at home on Monday. A sudden travel plan adds to your expenses. Associates will be co-operative. Students find the campus congenial. TIP: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. SAGITTARIUS: The Wheel of Fortune spins in some good fortune and emotional abundance. Fairly active week for the teenagers. You will gain new contracts. Health will give no worry to you. Property matters are highlighted. A relationship heats up. Avoid travel if possible. TIP: Watch your action at work and polish your public relation skills. CAPRICORN: The Prince of Wands shows this would be quite a hectic week. Give more time to your spouse. New friendship can be formed through club or society activities. Shun tamper and haste. You need to be careful while dealing with legal matters. TIP: Do not expect too much from others.
PISCES: The six of cups blesses you new beginnings, and projects. Don’t spoil a happy association. Stars bless those who are appearing for interviews and tests. Optimism will work wonders. TIP: Allow a sick situation to blow over before starting new.
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Eye catching
Mirror music. What kind of music do you expect from this genre? As you pull out a swanky gadget, of course your mobile phone (a fully loaded one for sure), tap in Mirror Music for a Google search and the rapper Bohemia lays out a precise explanation. “That’s my music, a reflection of my life, and everything else that I stand for. This is the music that comes from the heart,” he places a hand, swears by the heart. Touched!
On a crisp, deliciously cold winter morning, the sun rays parted the misty curtains engulfing then PM Indira Gandhi's 1, Akbar Road residence. The cackle of Grey partridges broke out in the stately trees of colonial vintage that stand like columns at Akbar Road. The partridge heralds day-break on a North Indian countryside as the rooster in pastoral England.
A camera captures it all-from a smile to tears to pleasure and glee. And preserving it for us is a photo frame that makes it a memory for generations to see. And when we are talking frames they not only make memoirs but also enhance the beauty of the photographs along with keeping them in good condition. While an eye-catching photo frame is a good way to add colour to any part of your home, photo frames also make for wonderful gifts and believe us there is a history behind each frame.
Talking today we even have digital photo frame that can play up to 250 pictures but frames have evolved from borders, which appeared 3-4,000 years ago on vase and tomb paintings, and later on mosaics, enclosing narrative scenes and decorative panels. 
ARIES: The
Ace of Wands says you would attempt to enhance your skills, knowledge and
broaden your horizon. Real estate transaction is favoured on Wednesday.
Your boss may be co-operative. Children may be difficult to be handled. A
good week to get things done by people in power. TIP OF THE WEEK:
Take responsibility for your own action. Lucky Colour: Black.
AQUARIUS:
"Six of Swords" reveals there may be some minor glitches in your
plans this week. Good news in store if you had hopes of achieving any
significance on Tuesday. Speculation keeps you busy. Well-placed Saturn
saves you from defamation and scandal. Take care of stomach. TIP:
Don’t let opposition faze you when you decide to walk the path you
wanted to.