On the eighth day, God made coffee. Perhaps on the ninth, the café! Since then everyone’s been busy barging in and out of the coffee bars. Just as the reasons of frequenting the coffee bars transformed, so did the insides.And it was no more than throwing in a couple of beanbags, cushions, couch and viola to deck up the interiors till sometime ago. That was then. Ten years back when the likes of Barista, Café Coffee Day, entered the scene. It was the coffee that counted; with the passage of time, it’s the concept too.

Starting with the one that transports to the scenic countryside, the The Willow Café. The place borrows heavily from the western rural idyllic surroundings. “The idea behind the venture was to make optimum use of the space, the location and surroundings of the place, as it has a very scenic view. The café has a very American countryside feel to it,” Priya Jagat, director, shares. To add to the ambience are an inside-outside kitchen wall, a window peeking in, artefacts, frills and tapestries et al. She adds, “Even the furniture is very country, so is the upholstery. We did the place ourselves only. When you travel, you end up seeing a lot of things and imbibing them all.”

Among the line up, Backpackers Café, on the lines of a European café, was perhaps the first to break into the market of theme-based gourmet cafes.

Moving on, there’s Café Oz, clubbing in the concept of a DJ at a coffee joint, the tempo of a lounge and the comfort of a café. Then there’s Café Nomad, with Mediterranean as the theme. Think wood, fire and oven forming part of the interiors.

Rather, the phenomenon extends to the entire hospitality industry; something got generally to do with how important the interiors are. It’s not café’s per se, pubs, bars, lounges, restaurants are hopping in too. Opines Priyanka Gupta, director, Hops n Grains, “Average is out. There is no uniqueness in it. It’s not just the food; it’s the experience you offer to a customer. If it’s just food you are serving then that’s not a very wholesome experience you are offering. Moreover these days, there’s a lot of customer variation. When people go out they want to be able to select from a wide array of options that gives more than just good food.”

From a cellar to the cemetery, hardly a concept has remained untouched. She adds, “There’s this place in Delhi, which has cricket as its theme. So you have a bar shaped like a cricket pitch, seating arrangement in the form of gloves.”

If a place has got a feel to it, it invariably transports the people into the theme it borrows from. Adds Priya, “Any eating place these days has to stick to a theme. The response to these places has been phenomenal. It enhances the mood and experience of the customers.” Not to forget the escapist undertones associated with a place borrowing heavily from cultures far off. A theme is what anybody would like to soak in apart from the aroma of coffee beans.

Shares Ravi Rana, manager, Backpackers Café, “With the shortage of time, gradually elaborate dining habits gave way to quick grabs and food on the go. Naturally, the cafes cashed in on this opportunity. That also partly explains the change in interiors.” In between the aesthetics, functionality counts in too. While the evolution, continues.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Sitting in the cosy comfort of our drawing rooms, watching experts give a zillion reasons for putting an end to pollution; channels showing glaciers melting fast, we begin to get concerned. But only till the time the television shows horrid tales of disturbance in the ecological balance. Once the TV is off we easily slip back into our routines, forgetting everything about environment and conservation. Sad yet true!

However, one person His Holiness, The Gyalwang Drukpa, who is the head of the 1000-year-old Drukpa Oder, and also the founder and spiritual director of the award-winning Druk White Lotus School in Ladakh, which provides modern education to students while preserving culture takes every little detail revealed by TV, journals, reports on environment...pretty seriously.

For Gyalwang Drukpa caring and nurturing environment is a way of giving back to nature what we have received from it. “Environmental degradation across the globe is a matter of deep concern and a little contribution from each one of us will make a huge difference,” he says. 

The founder of ‘Live To Love’ humanitarian movement also feels that metropolitan cities are worst affected by pollution of various kinds. The Gyalwang Drukpa is honoured as the ‘Green Guru’ of the Year at the NDTV Greenathon Awards, 2010. The Greenathon Award has been instituted to acknowledge the champions of the earth for environmental leadership (globally) and showcase their contribution towards protection of the fragile balance of the environment. He is currently on a padyatra, which will cover 300 kilometres from Darjeeling to Sikkim, to raise awareness about the adverse impact of environmental degradation. His Holiness recently created a new Guinness World Record by planting 50,033 saplings in 33 minutes and 25 seconds on October 10, 2010, in the Ladakh region. 

“This is a common practice with each one of us, we talk about environment and then forget it in matter of minutes. If only each one of us makes a little effort towards keeping our environment clean, we wouldn’t have to worry a bit,” offers Gyalwang Drukpa. He also launched a ‘Say No to plastic bags and non-biodegradable materials’ campaign under the aegis of Drukpa Lineage, to raise awareness of environmental issues in the Himalayan region. The ‘Live To Love’ foundation, a new worldwide charity focused on imparting education and awareness on environmental issues, has built the world’s most advanced eco-friendly schools, for which the lineage has been bestowed with the United Nation’s Millennium Development Honour.

“I would often wonder what am I giving to nature that has given me so much. Once, I was travelling by train to Delhi and I saw a garbage dump where kids where playing with pigs. My heart nearly wept at the site. We have been sent to earth for a purpose, saving environment is one of our duties,” he adds pointing towards the scenario in cities like Chandigarh.

“The number of automobiles in the city has increased manifold. You can imagine the level of pollution that it has raised. Citizens should be actively involved in generating awareness in whatever possible way, whether it is through rallies, padyatras or whatever.” His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa undertook a walking pilgrimage titled - walking on world’s rooftop - around a year back wherein he walked 400 kms from Manali to Ladakh along with 700 nuns and monks. The thought was to clean Himalayas and save the environment in that belt. The monks and nuns collected over 1 lakh plastic bottles from the Himalayan region. “Thanks to the tourist in flow, the equilibrium of the nature is topsy-turvy. Plastic is one major source of pollution that needs to be tackled carefully.”

jasmine@tribunemail.com

The Hindi film industry failed to set the cash registers ringing in 2010 despite big budget outings starring A-listers and accompanying marketing blitzkrieg. With only five hits, Bollywood suffered a net loss of about Rs 300 crore ($66 million) this year, say experts. "This year has not been very good. The only hits in 2010 have been Dabangg, Golmaal 3, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai and Peepli Live that have saved the year from being a disaster," trade analyst Komal Nahta said.

"Love Sex Aur Dhokha (LSD)", shot with a digital camera, rounds up the top five. "Balaji Motion Pictures is proud of making quality content, that too within feasible budgets...That is how two of our films (Once Upon... and LSD) have made it into the top five films of 2010. This is perhaps the perfect recipe for a hit," Girish Johar, head of acquisition and distribution, Balaji, said.

Trade sources say the approximate net earnings of LSD, Once Upon..., Peepli Live, Dabangg and Golmaal 3 have been Rs 9 crore, Rs 60 crore, Rs 28 crore, Rs 145 crore and Rs 97 crore respectively, while their budgets were Rs 1 crore, Rs 20 crore, Rs 7 crore, Rs 40 crore and Rs 45 crore respectively.

"The losses are around Rs 250-300 crore after deducting the total profits of all the profit making movies from the total losses of the loss-making films and not considering films releasing December 10 onwards," added Nahta, who also hosts the popular trade show ETC Bollywood Business.

Some are blaming the lacklustre year on the film themes. Film historian S.M.M. Ausaja said, "The year has not been very eventful for Bollywood in terms of the success rate. The reason is the kind of subjects that were chosen. The producers mostly signed a star and wove a story around him, which was not engaging. All this mounted to production costs and the producers didn't get such returns."

With over 180 releases, the year saw big movies such as Kites, Raavan, Rakta Charitra - Part I and II, Veer, Action Replayy, Guzaarish and Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey bite the dust.

A-list starrers like Pyaar Impossible!, Paathshala, Rann, Teen Patti, Khatta Meetha, Jhootha Hi Sahi, We Are Family, Aakrosh and Knock Out were also damp squibs.

But there were some movies that were neither hits nor flops like My Name Is Khan, Housefull, Raajneeti and Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge. While Badmaash Company, I Hate Luv Storys, Break Ke Baad, Anjaana Anjaani, Tere Bin Laden and Phas Gaye Re Obama did average business. Underworld drama Once Upon... and Salman Khan's corrupt cop saga Dabangg managed to revive single screen theatres. There were some like Ishqiya, Well Done Abba, Lahore, Udaan, Red Alert - The War Within and Do Dooni Char, which went on to win critical acclaim.

Superstar Rajnikant too made a comeback in B-Town at 60 as an android opposite Aishwarya Rai in Robot. 2010 proved to be jinxed for all horror movies namely Click, Rokkk, Hide & Seek, Shaapit, Phoonk 2, Help, Mallika, Bachao and A Flat. The experts suggest reasonable budgets in the coming year as a way out. "The push back strategy would be to create good quality content within reasonable budgets with full involvement from all sectors, including creative marketing strategies, to attract eyeballs," said Johar.

Nahta said, "They need to work harder on the scripts. Secondly, they should be more realistic in their star pricing. The costs are so high, they can't recover their costs. It is not worthwhile to pay so much." Ausaja said, "Audiences are not fools. The producers have got to concentrate on content."

The industry is hoping to upgrade the balance sheet with the much-awaited Akshay Kumar-Katrina Kaif starrer Tees Maar Khan that has almost Rs 50 crore riding on it. The film releases December 24. — IANS

After hosting shows like Kaun Banega Crorepati (2007) and Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain? (2008), Bollywood badshah Shah Rukh Khan is all set to make his small screen comeback with Zor Ka Jhatka on Imagine TV.

Known for his comic timing and trademark witty style, the star has claimed he will beat all competition on television by providing wholesome entertainment on the show, which is the Indian edition of internationally popular show Wipeout. "I'm looking forward to being a super funny host-commentator. In fact, my children and I have watched the international version often and really loved it. I am sure to Wipeout all your worries and make you have loads of fun," Shah Rukh said at the launch. "I am the badshah of bedroom. Now people may say I am being vulgar, but the kind of entertainment I provide to my viewers enjoying in their bedrooms - no one else can," he added, looking dapper in a black suit and a white shirt. Shah Rukh will take 28 TV stars out of their comfort zone to battle it out in an obstacle course set in Argentina. The participants on the show include Akashdeep Saigal, Amit Sareen, Ashima Bhalla, Bakhtiyaar Irani, Claudia Ciesla, Debina Bonnerjee, Gaurav Chopraa, Jennifer Winget, Karishma Tanna, Kushal Punjabi, Narayani Shastri, Natasha Suri, Payal Rohatgi, Priyadarshani Singh, Raja Chaudhary, Rohit Verma, Simran Kaur Mundi among others.

They will be challenged by the star to a series of hilarious tasks. The prize money is worth Rs.1.5 crore, including a mega cash prize for the winner of the finale.

— IANS

There is something about old songs that Bollywood filmmakers keep revisiting the golden era of 1970s and 80s in an attempt to cash-in on the nostalgia. The filmmakers often buy the original song and remix it with extra beats to score a success on the music charts and the trend is catching on fast. 

Latest to join the bandwagon is Dharmendra's film Yamla Pagla Deewana. The actor, who turned 75 recently, will be seen dancing with his sons Sunny and Bobby Deol on the number, which was picturised on him in 1975 hit Pratigya. Apart from Yamla Paglaa Deewana, Ranvir Kapoor starrer Bachna Ae Haseeno, Shahrukh's Don, Akshay Kumar's Housefull and Ajay Devgan's latest release Golmaal 3 relied on old Bollywood numbers to brighten the prospect of their movies. After almost nine years, Pyarelal did a composition for Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om. Film critic Taran Adarsh feels that old songs are still fresh in public memory and including them in a film ensures quick publicity.

"The recall value of old Hindi songs based on ragas are so tremendous that even after 30-35 years, people are listening to the tunes with same interest. Filmmakers are trying to generate same hysteria to boost their box-office sales," says Adarsh.

"Through remixing or adopting the original songs, producers like Sajid Khan in Housefull, Ram Gopal Varma in Sholay and Farhan Akhtar in Don successfully used the success mantra to create some kind of viewer's interest before release of the film," Adarsh adds. While some songs were picturised on the original actors like Dharmendra in Yamla Pagla Deewana and Mithun Chakravarti in Golmaal 3, others see present superstars dancing on the popular tunes.

"Old hit songs carry a nostalgic value with them and if same star performs on that song in a new movie like Mithun Chakravati did in Golmaal 3 and Dharmendra in Yamla..., people enjoy watching it while it's a new experience for youngsters," says Komal Nahata, a film market analyst.

Housefull found box-office success with a remix of a popular hit song from a 1981 Amitabh Bachchan movie, Laawaris. The songs I am a Disco Dancer and Yaad aa raha hai from Mithun's blockbuster film Disco Dancer had been woven into the narrative of the film Golmaal 3. — PTI 

Bollywood star Salman Khan has reached out to his fans on micro-blogging site Twitter to boost the sales of his limited range of watches, named after his Being Human charitable foundation. He posted pictures of the colourful, Swarovski-encrusted watches, and wrote, Ladies ghadiyaan aa gayi hai. Sasta sundar tikao, please bikao (Ladies watches have come. They are cheap, beautiful and durable), so please buy!"

The watches have been designed by Salman and are available in colours like brown, purple, red, black. The starting price of the watches is Rs 7,500. — IANS

Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan wished a very happy birthday to his "jiggerypoo" John Abraham, who turned 38, and Riteish Deshmukh, who turned 31, Friday."Here's wishing my jiggerypoo John and my little brother Riteish the happiest birthday," Abhishek posted on his Twitter page.

He calls John by the name ever since the duo shared a crackling chemistry when they posed as gay in the hit film Dostana.

— IANS

Check 1, check 2…hello everybody, this is Sukhi, your RJ for the day and you are listening to your radio station Jyotir Gmaya at 91.2 frequency…padho or padhao…and the day begins. A brief introduction of the programme follows - “Today we are going to discuss the problem of traffic congestion in the city. Your suggestions are welcome.”

Every morning at 8.30, one such social issue is discussed, debated and solutions are sought. Experts give advice and callers call in to contribute with their valuable inputs. Panjab University’s month-old community radio, based at the School of Mass Communication, is doing everything that’s expected of a community radio. “We are serving people by informing them about their surroundings and by taking up issues that affect us all,” comes from Sukhjeet Singh Bathinda aka Sukhi, a student of Mass Communication first-year who along with the station master, Kanwaljeet Singh, hosts majority of the programmes.

And they have gone on air with well-researched programmes on drug abuse, female foeticide, illiteracy, eve-teasing, domestic violence. “The idea is to cater to all sections of society. If we have bulletins on illiteracy targeting the underprivileged, there is also a series on how to handle exam pressure for students,” adds Kanwaljeet.

Others examples of the same are shows on lifestyle diseases by Dr Arun Kochar, and healthy diet recipes by Kandla Nijhowne. “Children from Guru Gobind Singh Vidya Mandir, Ratwara Sahib, will also present a show. They will recite shabds in the morning slot,” he informs. The radio channel has its range in the Tricity and nearby villages.

The radio goes on air for two hours daily and the time-period will be gradually increased. For Mohanmeet Khosla, chairperson of the department, community radio is one medium through which the educated and privileged can pay back to the society. “But the radio is not the property of the department. Any student from the university is welcome to present a show or come up with a relevant topic. The basic premise should remain public service.” The students stand for the cause too, but they feel infotainment would benefit more than pure information.

Adds Sukhi, “In times to come, we will improvise on our content. Programmes that will educate and entertain will be aired. For example, students will record songs, enact plays, recite poetry on various social evils.” Lighter issues will also be discussed in between. Yajur Digvijay Singh Brar, a third year student of UIET, PU, is all set to present a show on rap music. He tells us more about the show: “We will create fusion of rap music with Sufi to educate people that the music form is not limited to the English language alone.” Similarly, those who want to display their talent are free to approach the radio.

However, for the sake of entertainment, Bollywood will not find a mention on the channel. Affirms Kanwaljeet, “People don’t miss out anything on Bollywood or fashion, since there are enough channels to do that. What they miss out on are the real life problems and we will focus only on that.” An interesting show would be ‘Ek Subha Ek Sham’, in which people will share with the listeners their story of life. “We will profile individuals from different walks of life to make people relate to the show.” But with these additions, social issues would always find enough air-time. As Mohanmeet translates the name of the radio, Jyotir Gmaya, “Dispel darkness with the light of wisdom!”

ashima@tribunemail.com

A steaming bowl of your favourite soup on a chilly evening is one of the few pleasures that winter offers. Easy to cook, low cost, highly nutritious and great on taste, the benefits of soups are numerous. Thick soups are a great way to get more vegetables to your diet. Combine them with a loaf of your favourite bread and they offer an excellent small meal. This winter, we get you five signature style recipes from city’s chefs.

Khow Suey (Portion: 1 litre)

Chef: Neeraj Chaudhary

Chef and beverage manager, The Taj

Ingredients: Sliced onion (100 gms), chopped garlic (20 gms), ginger (20 gms), some lemon grass, lime leaf (one), curry powder (one tablespoon), crushed peanuts (50 gms), turmeric powder (1/4 table spoon), coconut milk (100 ml), coriander seeds (10 gms), dry chilli (one), sesan cooked in butter (10 gms), lemon juice and salt (according to taste).

Recipe: Heat oil and add sliced onions, chopped garlic, grated ginger, finely chopped lemon grass, bay leaf and pepper corn, and sauté well. Add turmeric powder, curry powder, desiccated coconut and roasted crushed peanuts. Add some water and let it boil for some time. Now add besan cooked in butter and make a fine puree. Add vegetarian or non-vegetarian stock, according to the requirement and cook at slow flame for about two hours.

For tempering, add crushed garlic, dry red chilli, dry coriander seeds, chopped lime leaves, coriander roots and roasted gram flour in oil. Add tempering to the soup. Cook and strain. For seasoning add salt, lemon juice, vegetarian or non-vegetarian aromatic powder.

For garnishing you can go for diced chicken, diced prawn, lemon wedges, diced lamb, boiled egg white (diced), fried garlic flakes, fried onion, glass noodles, boiled rice, diced spring onion, beans sprout, sliced mushroom, diced asparagus, diced mix vegetables, chopped coriander and fresh red chilli flakes

mona@tribunemail.com

Vimal Kumar Thapa with Lemon Coriander Soup

Lemon Coriander Soup

Chef: Vimal Kumar Thapa,

Head Chinese section, Hotel Chandigarh Beckons-42

For vegetable stock: Boil some carrot, cauliflower, peas with a dash of ginger and garlic in half a litre of water. Boil for about half-an-hour, let it simmer and then stain. Ingredients: Chopped coriander, garlic, one diced carrots, five beans, baby corn, mushroom, palak, coriander broccoli, salt, pepper, ajinomoto, lemon juice, corn flour, refined oil (one spoon).

Recipe: In a pan sauté garlic, add vegetable stock and boil. Add slices of raw vegetables. Cook for two minutes. Add corn flour, salt, ajinomoto and pepper according to taste. Also add lemon juice. If you like it spicy, you can add chilly sauce or chopped green chillies. Just before serving, add finely chopped coriander. Serve hot. 

Chef Gopal Khatka with Lah May Corn Soup

Lah May Corn Soup (two portions)

Chef: Gopal Khatka

Chef de Partie, Mountview –10

For vegetables stock: Water (1500 ml), ginger (20 gm), spring onion (one whole piece), carrot (15 gm), potato (half). After boiling it all, simmer it for 30 minutes then strain it.

Recipe: Toss cleaned and chopped garlic (05gm) and ginger (05gm) in olive oil (20 ml). Add boiled vegetables (Chinese cabbage (15 gm), mushroom (10gm), carrot (10gm), broccoli (10gm) and Hoffan noodle (15gm). Add vegetable stock as mentioned above. For seasoning take salt, freshly crushed black pepper, ajinomoto (as per taste), oyster sauce (two drops), and corn flour for thickness.

Put it in servicing bowl, garnish with chopped spring onions (white portion).

Al Forno Chicken Soup  

Chef: Khimananda Paudel

Head chef, Al Forno-17

Ingredients: Chicken boneless (50gm, finely chopped into square pieces), chicken bones (500 gm), finely chopped, three cloves, garlic, little cup olive oil, pinch of oregano, half a cup of whole peeled Italian tomatoes, one tablespoon chicken stock (or soup base), one tablespoon salt, pinch of pepper, pinch or red pepper flakes, coarsely chopped, three tablespoons fresh basil, half cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Recipe: In a large skillet, sauté chopped chicken in olive oil, till brown, stir in tomatoes and simmer, stirring occasionally. Add six cups cold water in a saucepan. Add chicken bones and salt. Bring to a boil and cook it on slow heat with a lid for 45minutes. Then remove it from the heat. After 10 minutes strain the stock and mix it with the sauté chicken in tomatoes, then add basil, oregano and some of the grated cheese. Sprinkle to taste with sea salt or kosher salt, and freshly grated black pepper. Add a light dusting of hot red pepper flakes. Now sauté and slightly burn the garlic for smoked flavour. Serve it hot. 

Baked Onion Soup (2 portions)

Chef: Pritam Chef in Charge, Cafe Amor, Page 3, Panchkula

For Brown Stock: Cleaned lamb bones three (optional), crushed garlic (50 gm), celery (50 gm), leek (50 gm), sliced onion (50 gm), carrot (50 gm), oil (100 ml), peppercorns (5 gm), chilled water (2 litres)

Recipe: Clean the bones and put it in a pan with oil. Roast till brown on high heat (For vegetarian soup, increase the vegetable content three times). Add rest of the ingredients except water and sauté for 10 minutes. Add water, put on slow fire for two hours. Strain the stock and keep aside.

For Bread Croutons

Jumbo white bread (2 slices), cheddar cheese (100 gm) Toast the bread on one side. Cut into quarters and sprinkle cheese on the un-toasted side of bread. Toast the croutons till they are light brown.

Recipe: Heat butter in a pan and add sliced onions. Sauté the onions till golden brown on moderate fire, add one tablespoon water and stir as it dries. Repeat it five times on low heat. Add prepared stock to the pan and boil. Adjust the seasoning using salt and pepper.

Serve hot along with a crouton on top.

Hot favourite

Soups are a rage in winter. Says Rita Sekhon, dietician, Darling Buds Aesthetic Clinic, Chandigarh, “Soups offer tremendous variety for every palate. Hot soup has numerous health benefits. Adding a quick bowl of soup to your meals during the cold season can help you warm up, protect your organs and avoid unnecessary calories,” says Rita.

Adding healthy soup recipes to your regular list of meals can even help you lose weight. “Soups reduce calorie intake by 20 per cent. By using low sodium, low fat broth, and eliminating fatty meats as well as excessive salt, you can make a delicious low calorie soup using a combination of vegetables, herbs, and spices,” she offers.

Our bathrooms depicts our lifestyle, this is also indicated by the rising style quotient while designing bathroom. Living in style today comes handy with bathing in style, with the plethora of luxurious options available in the bath fittings segment. Let’s look at some of the interesting trends in bathroom fittings: 

Time to uncomplicate- Gone are the days when you would stand puzzled in front of a faucet or basin mixer with two identical knobs that would serve distinct requirements. Bathroom fittings in India have followed the global trend and moved towards single lever fittings from the traditional two knob fittings. Manufacturers have realized the importance of less complicated, compact and efficient fittings. Wall mounted fittings are a rising trend which again flows from the demand for better functionality. They are also gaining popularity because not only are they a great enabler for the designer, but they are also easier to maintain due to lesser water contact with the product surface.

Made to touch Technology simplifies our lives, and when it comes to bathrooms it makes life better. No more burns from hot chrome surfaces as the latest bathroom technology protects the surface of the fittings from getting heated up when hot water flows out of it. Adding to the experience is the thermostat technology, which saves energy by quick transition in temperature as needed by the user.

See it to believe it A contemporary bathroom prefers to flaunt its assets. As compared to concealed fittings in the past, the current trend caters to an exposed fitting where the shower system etc., is aesthetically engraved in the walls and not inside it.

(By Grohe India Pvt Limited)

Music, art, painting, theatre; schools are no longer only about academics. Promoting an all-round development for their students Dikshant Public School in sector 12 Panchkula started with their Art and sculpture workshop.

On why a workshop on art and sculpture Mitul Dikshit, director of Dikshant School says, "Sculpture and Art enhance the creativity in children. It emphasises on imagination which otherwise takes a backseat due to academic pressure."

The students are working with professional sculptors from Vishva Bharati School and Shantiniketan. "Art and creativity flourished from Shantiniketan. The whole culture and atmosphere is very different from other Art colleges and that is why we choose instructors from these schools," says Mitul. "The students are working with various mediums like stone, wood, metal, bronze and clay and the main reason for this variety is that we want to develop their creativity. There is a concept called visual thinking and these mediums help in further development of the child," he says. 

Lights, camera, action… KFC Productions’ introduces the snack-star of the season - ‘Popcorn Chicken’.  KFC, the place where good food and finger lickin’ thereon go hand in hand, brings a product that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds further. Presenting Popcorn Chicken - jiske crispy, juicy, popcorn size bites main hain spicy sprinkle ka mazaa! Nothing is more entertaining than watching all the filmy dramas of life unfurl, whilst munching away on Popcorn Chicken!

A delicious harmony of spicy, crispy and juicy bite sized pieces of chicken with KFC’s unique “extreme” sprinkle to give it that extra zing, Popcorn Chicken makes for a fun filled snack. Enjoy it on the go or along with your other KFC favourites – you would only ask for more when you are done!

According to Unnat Varma, director marketing – KFC, “Popcorn Chicken is a fun snacking innovation for the youth. The signature KFC taste and the delectable extreme sprinkle make it an ideal snack for a filmy moment. It only reiterates our constant effort of providing finger lickin’ good food and beverages; thereby dishing out new products that cater to the tastes of today’s generation. We are sure that the appetizing Popcorn Chicken will add to your list of KFC favourites!”

 This exciting offering is up for grabs at all KFC outlets and is priced attractively at Rs. 49 for a regular and Rs. 89 for a large pack.

— TNS

Dabur India Ltd - India's largest Ayurvedic and natural healthcare company has launched its flagship healthcare brand Dabur Chyawanprash in two new fruit-flavoured variants Dabur Chyawanprash orange and Dabur Chyawanprash mango. "This marks two new firsts for Dabur Chyawanprash and for the healthcare industry in India.

Consumers have always sworn by the health benefits of Chyawanprash and we are now offering the same immunity and health benefits of Dabur Chyawanprash in a tastier form with the launch of orange and mango flavours. This launch would go a long way in expanding the consumer base for this age-old health tonic," said Dabur India Ltd Category Head-health supplements, Praveen Jaipuriar. — TNS

Rich in content, melody and rhythm, qawwali is the best form amid performing arts. It is both devotional and romantic, born out of the mixing of Dhrupad and Khayal gayaki," says Mumbai-based artiste Ustad Yusuf Azad and Delhi Gharana maestro Baby Naaz.

The duo is in the city for a performance at the Pinjore Heritage Festival. A foremost disciple of late Ustad Yusuf Azad senior, a legend who gave a new dimension to the music form making it popular in films as well, the junior Yusuf Azad, hailing from Ahmedabad, excelled after his maiden performances in Bombay and has never looked back. His qawwalis in films 'Putli, Noor-E-Elahi, Maszid Mandir and others have made him a huge hit.

He has been to Canada and USA thrice, besides East Africa, South Africa and Middle East. However, he rues that qawwali is losing out to the glamour industry. "Even ghazal maestros have an edge over qawwali singers these days," he asserts while giving credit to Mehdi Hassan and Jagjit Singh, the pioneers of modern ghazal gayaki. "But since lyricism is at the heart of qawwali and the compositions are based on mystic utterances of the saintly poets, it will never die," he says. "Pop or remix is just like a passing phase," he adds.

Known as Baby even at the age 50, Baby Naaz graduated in music from Etawa and was the only one in her family to make music her calling. She performed at various functions as a child before learning the nuances of classical music under the tutelage of Ustad Hilal Ahmed and qawwali maestro Ustad Nizam Raagi.

"Shifting to Delhi after my marriage helped me immensely. I won instant popularity as a qawwali singer. My only daughter, Bushra Ali, instead opted for a career in commerce," she says.

"I performed with the great qawwal Aziz Naza at top venues in the world. In those days, people used to approach artistes directly but now the middlemen dictate the terms," she adds. Voicing her resentment, she recites a couplet, "Ham wafa thhey issliye nazron se gir gaye/ Shayad tumhein talaash kisi bewafa ki thi".

Reality shows 'Mahayatra' and 'Chhoo Lo Aasman' fame young actress from Delhi Akansha Juneja wears many hats. Before entering into tinsel world, she has worked as a producer for documentary films and voice-over artiste. Akansha is all set to play the lead role in Sahara One Television's brand new venture, produced by Edit 2 production, 'Hamari Beti Raj Karegi', which premiers on December 20. Lifestyle catches up

How did you get the role of Anjali Shukla?

Producers Binafar Kohli and Sanjay Kohli contacted me for the audition. After a week I was called to sign the contract. So, my experience paid off.

What is Hamaari Beti Raaj Karegi all about?

Marriages are made in heaven and come with expectations. They are based on mutual trust and understanding between two families. The show touches on these issues. It is the story of an educated girl and her dreams.

What makes this family drama unique?

It is very different from other family shows. The characterisation is beautiful and the script powerful. I hope the viewers' response would be good.

How is your rapport with co-stars?

I share a very nice rapport with my co-stars, including Shashank Sharma, Shekkar Sharma, Debashish Nah and Shagufta Ali. All are very supportive. We all chat and have a good time on the sets.

How has life changed after this show?

My day starts and ends with shoots for 'Hamari Beti Raaj Karegi'. I have been very busy.

Are you doing anything else?

I am just concentrating on this show.

How do you find Mumbai and what do you miss most about Delhi?

I just love Mumbai but I miss Delhi for its warmth, my family and food. Delhi is very close to my heart, but I love Mumbai for its spirit.

— Dharam Pal

Zoravar Singh Thiara a boy all of 13 has mastered an art, which many adults fail to do. He has bagged the first position at the FEI (Federal Equestrian International) World Dressage Challenge Zone 8, Asia, held on November 7 and 8, 2010. Being the youngest competitor at the FEI, Zoravar stood first in the junior category with a huge lead of a full 7 per cent over the second position. After this victory, he is now ranked number 2 in Zone 8 - Asia, only 0.30 per cent behind the leader, who is
from Indonesia.

Demonstrating an unusual degree of intelligence, talent and skill this young boy proved his metal among seasoned senior riders at the Dressage Challenge, which was common for both the junior and senior category.

Zoravar is being trained with Major J S Ahluwalia in training and is also being trained by the internationally acclaimed mental trainer and sports psychologist Dr Amit Bhattacharya, who is also Olympic Gold Medal Winner, Abhinav Bindra's mental trainer.

A student of Class VII at St. John's High School, Zoravar says, "I have always nurtured a dream to represent my country and win in the Youth Olympics, Asian Games, The World Cup and Olympics and this victory is a step towards my goal." Calling it a proud moment he says, "My mare L'Avenue a German sport horse was judged the healthiest, the best turned out and the most well presented horse in the entire competition."

Besides participating in national events in the future, Zoravar endeavours to participate in two World Championships, the FEI in 2011 and the Youth Olympics in 2014. "I will now concentrate on Show Jumping as well as Dressage," he says. 

It's the beginning of the festive season (read Christmas and New Year) and celebrating the time in a fun way, Sheena Harjina and Daizy Goel, from Pitara for kids in Panchkula, are going to have carnival for children and women on their academy premises on December 25.

Celebrating the day with a number of activities for the kids, the carnival will also have exhibition and sale of lifestyle goods. Says Sheena, "We will have a painting competition for the children and also display some of the already made glass paintings by them. Apart from this, we will have a diamond jewellery exhibition by Zaira, Tanjore painting by Bhanu, balloon party stuff by Vaibhavi and Rishi, Aquariums and birds exhibition by Shalini, suits and kurtis by Sonia and Arool botique, skin care and food supplements by Jasween and Renu Malhotra and a collection of handbags on exhibition. Meenu would present a dance show and children will also have Santa who would be distributing gifts and prizes. — TNS

ARIES: The Priestess infuses pure and exalted influences in your life. Be careful, don't lose your temper even if you are provoked. Your love life will be smooth and spending time with your partner will help you relax. Tip of the week: Take one step at a time and avoid being in a hurry and over anxious. Lucky colour: Black.

TAURUS: The Ace of Pentacles leads to actualisation of personal and professional plans. Consider making the necessary improvements at home before any weather changes create havoc. Some delay in financial settlements is possible. Tip: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: Magenta.

GEMINI: The Moon takes you through a difficult karmic situation. Watch your temper and do not let it overwhelm you. If the stress is too much, close your door and go through it alone. Tip: Do not expect too much from others. Lucky colour: White.

CANCER: You make an impact and shine like The Star. A certain situation may be coming to a head. Be careful not to over-commit yourself. New opportunities are in the offing; keep your options open. Tip: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses; so be confident. Lucky colour: Silver grey.

LEO: Your card The Hierophant takes you through a variety of experiences to learn from. Loved ones now need to improve the present and forget the past; be supportive. Tip: Don't take hasty decisions as it could lead to a waste of time and money. Lucky colour: Golden.

VIRGO: You draw Nine of Cups, which puts you through a touching and transforming personal experience. Don't make any sudden moves until you have all the information you need. Allow your heart to lead the way in personal relationships. Tip: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Peach.

LIBRA: You are active, dynamic, swift and strong like The Knight of Wands. Housewives: drawing room needs creative touch. If connected with international trade, you may face some trouble on Wednesday. Tip: Learn from past experience and desist from making a similar mistake again. Lucky coloru: Green.

SCORPIO: Knight of Wands brings gracious and aesthetic influences in your life. A relative or long-term companion may now wish to re-establish an unhealthy emotional pattern from the past. Go slow and reaffirm your boundaries. Tip: Be articulate to prevent people from reaching their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Pink.

SAGITTARIUS: The karmic Wheel of Fortune turns in your favour. Visitors and news from overseas is heartening. Stay grounded and practical to escape the clutches of people who make empty promises. Tip: Dare to accomplish those tasks, which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Brown.

CAPRICORN: The Chariot brings you face to face with truths & priorities. Emotional matters may not be easy for you to handle. New friendships will develop through group events. Stick to your diet and work to improve your health. Tip: Don’t reveal your plan of action to anyone. Lucky colour: Crimson.

AQUARIUS: Queen of Cups is in a combustible mood, so expect social plans to flare up. You may be attracted to a good cause rather than a dream lover. A sudden change of attitude may get you out of a rut and put you in a powerful position. Tip: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: White.

PISCES: The Emperor gets you in touch with your leadership qualities. It’s best to stick to yourself on Saturday. You will find yourself more than capable of turning your dreams into reality. Running and playing with your beloved or one who is extremely attractive will make you a star on Wednesday. Tip: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself.

Lucky colour: Wine red.