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Scripting Success
More than facts like mainstream actors showing interest in Punjabi cinema or the genre going global, what made Sudhanshu Pandey and Sudeepa Singh sign their first Punjabi flick was the strong script. "The film, Ek Noor, is about the bond between a husband and wife, and parents with their daughter. Since our society celebrates all relationships, the script made all the more sense," comes from Sudhanshu and Sudeepa, who were in the city for the promotion of the movie. Versatile in style
He started his career with TV, hopped behind the mike to become a member of the 'Band of Boys' and then graduated to Bollywood with a few films, Singh is Kingg being one of them. "I did whatever came my way because I never had the option to pick and choose. However, I alienated myself later on from the Band of Boys because I wasn't able to devote enough time to acting, which is my first love", adds Sudhanshu. Speaking Punjabi wasn't a problem for him. "My mother is from Punjab and I make it a point to converse only in Punjabi with her." He has also floated his own production company with Mahesh Bhatt as the creative head. "Launching their own production firms has empowered actors. They now don't wait for green signals from producers before taking up experimental projects." Right act
To begin a career in the glam world with a non-glamourous role is quite a risk. Sudeepa agrees as well, but has an addition to make, "It's a calculated risk. A film like Ek Noor will prove my potential as an actor rather than as a glam doll." The girl from Amritsar was first seen in Action Replay and entering the Punjabi cinema, she feels, is another feat: "Punjabi cinema has a growing audience. Not only people in Punjab, NRIs also vouch for the cinema now." She plays the lead role of Aruna, who adopts a visually impaired girl. "In the movie, my character suffers from cancer, so she pledges to donate her eyes to the girl Rabia," she shares about the storyline. As for the future projects, she promises to keep us posted. The movie will release on February 4.
ashima@tribunemail.com
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Set to MOVE
Whenever anybody asks about his best work so far, he always says, "It's the next one." And that's what Aamir Raza Husain, theatre veteran, makes of his close to three decades of experience in the medium. It's been over 25 years since he came to the city, and this time it is with Move Over. The play, to be staged in collaboration with Aircel, is a modern day comedy based loosely on Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream. Replace the forest with a flat in London and what follows is anybody's guess! The complicacies and deceptions that follow expose the intricacies of modern day stress, style and relationships. To add an interesting bit, the play was first presented at The Yellow Drawing Room, Rashtrapati Bhavan, as a command performance during the presidency of Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma. Back to the director and the last time he brought to the city Oliver Goldsmith's play set in the 18th century. Even post some of the productions like The Fifty Day War, The Legend of Ram, 1947 Live, "There are so many things that I haven't done and tried yet." Adds the director, "The Legend of Ram was a new experience not just for me, but for everyone. It was a challenge. The kind of lighting, the sets and the scale at which it happened was unprecedented." Perhaps, he himself will recreate something similar. "I'm in the process of working on a show on television but I don't know what is it going to be. I have a huge pile of books lying at my place at which I'll go and take a look." As of now, he's off to make the city move all over again. — Manpriya Khurana To be staged today at The Taj-17 at 6.30 pm
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Out of the host of things showcased at the Interior and Fashion Week exhibition at Hotel Shivalik View in Sector 17, we feature the best.
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Vipul
Mittra, a bureaucrat, talks about his work of fiction Pyramid of Virgin Dreams and his contribution to the Gujarat Tourism campaign
On the page number 144-45 of the book, there are details of how beautiful life is in Chandigarh. It's only this part of the story that's not fiction. "Rest everything, from characters, storyline, even names of cities are a complete work of fiction. I wanted to keep the Chandigarh part real as I my schooling is from the city," says Vipul Mittra, IAS, and author of the book. In the city to release his book on Saturday, he talks about his book and more. In the main lead
The story revolves around Kartikeya, the protagonist and his life as an IAS officer. Needless to say, the book although not completely autobiographical in nature, has certain instances from Vipul's life. "Life in the IAS academy and social life of bureaucrats are from personal experiences." He explains the same with an example, "I have also written about servants that the government provides to an officer. How they provide help in household chores, they cry when their master gets posted to another city and when they leave, how the same people leak out secrets of an officer's life." Time zone
It took Vipul 10 years to complete the book, before it was picked by Rupa and Comapny for publishing. "The title of the book suggests the unfulfilled dreams." The book cover supports the title with clouds (denoting dreams), ambassador cars, a sign of bureaucracy in India, held by strings printed on it. More to him
Vipul is also one of the brains behind the Gujarat tourism campaign. "The number of tourists visiting Gujarat has increased by 25 times after Amitabh Bachchan became the brand ambassador. We are cashing upon different aspects like temples, white desert and Asiatic lions." He adds that tourism avenues across India are many and it's time we promoted them all around the globe. ashima@tribunemail.com |
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My dad, my critic
Shazahn Padamsee managed to win praise from director Madhur Bhandarkar and her Dil tou Baccha Hai Ji co-star Ajay Devgn, but says it is difficult to impress her "perfectionist" father, theatre veteran Alyque Padamsee. "My dad is my biggest critic. It is very tough to impress him... he is such a perfectionist!" Shazahn said over phone from Mumbai. However, the 22-year-old feels her father provides constructive criticism and she has learnt to takes his comments in her stride. "When I have to go out, and I ask him - 'Dad, how am I looking?' he just nods. He is never like 'wow' or 'stunning' the way others compliment me. My dad is very strict and critical and I understand that he does it because he wants the best for me. I really appreciate that about my dad. "It's nice to have a dad who is in this profession, who knows what acting is, who knows what good films are... he has a great taste in cinema and it's really good to have someone who can give intelligent opinions about the kind of films I should do and what look suits me. I go to him for a lot of advice and I believe it's always the correct thing to do," she said. Theatre is in Shazahn's blood and she enjoys the medium, but Bollywood is what enamours her most. "My main focus is Bollywood. I do enjoy theatre, but honestly there's no time. I love doing plays, but it takes way too long to develop them. Doing theatre is a way of life... you go and rehearse from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., have chai (tea), work at your own pace... it is an art form and very personal. So unless there's time, it's tough. But right now, films are what excite me. Nevertheless, when I have some time, I would love to do theatre," she said. Shazahn was seen on the big screen in Rocket Singh - Salesman Of The Year and in just released Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji, she is seen as a 21-year-old bank intern June Pinto, who charms a much-older senior colleague, played by Ajay. She does not want to be choosy at such an early stage in her career. "I am very new and I can't really sit on a high pedestal and start demanding the kind of stuff I want. God willing, I will be there one day because I know I am very ambitious. But right now, the reality is that I am a newcomer. I am getting good offers as of now, and I do want roles that I can relate to and would be happy to do roles to which I can bring something unique."
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She may not be a tennis freak, but Bollywood beauty Lara Dutta is sincerely hoping that her fiancé Mahesh Bhupathi wins the men's doubles Australian Open with his partner Leander Paes. "So proud of Lee & Hesh!!! Praying for a win! The only Grandslam title they haven't won together... YET!!! C'monnnnn Boys!!! (sic)," Lara posted on her Twitter page following Paes-Bhupathi's entry into the Australian Open final on Thursday. The two tennis players made for a former World No.1 pair, and have won three Grand Slams together — Wimbledon (1999) and two French Open titles (1999, 2001). They are now playing a Grand Slam together after nine years. Bhupathi will be tying the knot with Lara Feb 19.
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Dynamic duo
Each moment has the ability to change your life forever," says Gurdas Maan. A legend, Maan is humility personified. "I learn a lot from kids when they are playing," says the singer, actor and writer with childlike simplicity. "I am a child in many ways still. Always busy working, each day seems like an exam to me," he shares. For all that Maan has achieved, he gives credit to his wife Manjeet. "She has stood like a pillar of strength through thick and thin," says Maan. His wife, proud to be 'Mrs Maan', wonders if it's the lot of women to live under the shadow of men folk. "It hurts that still Punjabi cinema is not ready to accept a woman as a director," says Manjeet. Only to be brushed aside by her husband, "Women are capable of achieving excellence in any field." The creative couple is almost ready with their new album Jogia due to be released on February 14. mona@tribunemail.com Just log in!
Maans launched dil247.com, an infotainment portal, an initiative by Parveen Trehan, director Catrack Entertainment Limited, at the Chandigarh Press Club on Saturday. "Designed with the youth in mind, this portal offers music streaming, 24X7 radio, blogs, articles and jokes. Cat Studio is a unique platform to launch and promote new talent," says Trehan. |
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Anne spoofs wardrobe malfunction Hollywood beauty Anne Hathaway spoofed a wardrobe malfunction in the advertisement for this year's Oscars, which she is presenting with actor James Franco. The actress is seen on-stage presenting a gong when her dress slips off her shoulder. Franco runs to her rescue, throwing a red blanket around the star to prevent her blushes, reported a publication online. Earlier in the advert, the pair are seen working out in the gym, lifting mini Oscar statues as weights, wearing T-shirts that read, "Oscar host in training". — Agencies
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Bromance in THE air
Mandip Singh, accounts professional in Melbourne, Australia, is set to fly off this Saturday. In the meantime he's doing what he misses most in his otherwise very comfortable set up - spending time with his childhood friends. Together with Abhishek Sharma and Madan Bhatt, Mandip is reliving each moment on his trip back home. 'Bromance' may be a newer entry in the dictionary, but the spirit has always been there. Men swear by their friends. Spirits, sports and unconditional support represent this bonding. We caught up with this trio in Sector 17, "This is the essence of our friendship. When together have loads of fun," says Abhishek. Second on their list is 'eating'. "We just had our pick at Bhatura King," says Madan. With Yaar Anmulle for their anthem, Mandip says, "This song mirrors our life." An amazing understanding rules this other gang of friends that came together while preparing for civil services. "Though we have known each other for a year, our understanding is good," says Parwinder. Kulwinder Guron and Gurvinder Singh, who have known each other all along, love to do everything together. "Friendship is bigger than any relationship," says Kulwinder. This duo's who address each other as 'putt'(son) love hanging out in Cafe Coffee Day -35 and are looking forward to studying in Canada. Prabhsharan and his friends finished studies a while ago but still hang out at Punjab University. 'Sarojini is our favourite', chorus these guys. 'Full support anywhere, anytime, for each other is the essence of their friendship. "You know unlike girls, boys can always bank on their friends," says Gurinder. This gang loves to dress up in white kurta pajamas that they especially source from Muktsar.
mona@tribunemail.com
Know the term Bromance, a portmanteau of the two words 'brother' and 'romance', which describes love and affection shared by two straight males. WHAT THEY DO High five: Bonding over beer and sports is a bromancer's universal feature. City one's have some peculiarities. Pass time: Geris Place: Girls' hostel, Punjab University Anthem: 'Yaar Anmulle' by Sharry Mann Dress: White kurta pajamas from Mukatsar Vehicle: Royal Enfield Bullet (Pronounced as 'Bullt') WORD WATCH Boregasm: The result of or act of reaching the apex or climax of boredom Emotional dump: Unloading all your emotional crap unmercifully onto one or more of your friends Wall an hb: The act of wishing someone 'happy birthday' on Facebook wall post Birthday eloping: The act of going on a trip to avoid the dramas of celebrating a birthday at home New Year's block: A condition that usually takes place the first couple of weeks into the new year, in which a person keeps writing in the last/previous year in place of the new one.
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Where’s your PARTY?
n House party: No, not the tea party, you got invited to as a fourth grader, but the house parties in the likes of high school teen dramas. Think Mean Girls, 90210, OC…it's a must-do, because there are no parents, all friends, a house to yourself and everything else "on the house." It's the ingredients that matter and make a party. Priyanka Bajaj refuses to get into the names and nomenclatures of a party. "We don't really have wild and wacky parties in the city but any bash that's themed and has a nice theme to top it, where all your friends are there is a must attend," she recalls one of the masquerade parties thrown at her place.
n Hen Party/Bachelor's bash: Stag night or bachlerotte party. Generally thrown by the best man, woman; this is to make the most of last few days of 'singledom'. The occasion is to indulge in activities which a prospective groom's/ bride's partner might not approve of? Need we say more? Someone else is getting hooked while you're having fun. Shares Neha Grover, freelance artist, "This is one of the all girls night out, full of Kodak moments. I wouldn't attach an age limit, but this is one bash, you must attend at least once. It's fun in the true sense of the term and also goes on to show that we don't need guys around." She laughs, "I've attended two such parties and at both, guys gate-crashed." n Costume/theme party: Grab this chance to become what you could not. Dress up like an astronaut, act like a DJ, or be a Florence Nightingale. Says Karan Chhabra; engineering student, "I once attended this hippie night. Though it was nothing like a rave party, but there were all the elements of a nomad's night out. I feel there is a nomad in all of us and how often do you get to live that life? Any party which caters to escapism, transports you somewhere else is a must attend."n Mixer: For the uninitiated, a mixer is where all the solos get together to get hooked. Getting invited to it could mean you'll never have to attend the next bash alone. Hosting it could mean you are the hero of your group. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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I believe in happy endings: Katrina
I like to be positive in love. I believe in happy endings," Katrina said on the sidelines of a book release by author-filmmaker Pritish Nandy last evening. After the IT raids at her residence early this week, this was Katrina's first public appearance at a bookstore in suburban Bandra. — PTI
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Tarot TALK
ARIES: Your financial situation will improve dramatically by Wednesday. Be wary of crafty colleagues they can land you in trouble. Your health may be a cause for concern. Tip of the week: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a situation. Lucky colour: Deep red.
TAURUS: Professionally, an important project will keep you on your toes. There could also be a change of residence. Be determined to get what you want, the goal is within your reach. Avoid eating out. Tip: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power. Lucky colour: White GEMINI: A sudden surge in business will ball you out of your present financial crisis. You may have to bear an unforeseen expenditure. A relationship might end, but it's all for the good. Tip: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Golden brown. CANCER: A new business proposal will fall into your kitty soon. But you won't leap at the idea immediately. Financial gains will come through timely investment and an intelligent plan of action. Tip: Plan your life to avoid delays in your way. Lucky colour: Green. LEO: The week may frustrate you. But don't worry. An exciting project will reinstall hope in your ailing professional career. Do not invest this week. Watch out for a stomach problem. Tip: Minor official pin-pricks are better ignored. Lucky colour: Yellow VIRGO: New personal and professional avenues will come to the fore. You can expect substantial financial gains as well. Your personal life will be blissful with family harmony, pleasant picnics and lots of fun. Tip: Be cautious in property matters. Lucky colour: Peach LIBRA: A pleasant experience and a new turn of events will thoroughly rejuvenate you. You may have to confront somebody about a delayed payment. This is an ideal time to sort out personal issues and start afresh. Tip: Work would be difficult. Lucky colour: Burgundy SCORPIO: Pack your bags and go for a luxury tour. If you're worried about your relationship, wait for things to unfold. Soon you will know your course of action. Tip: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Scarlet SAGITTARIUS: An excellent time to consider a new line of work or take up lucrative business venture. A friend might mess up your relationship. Fight it out with a firm voice. A sudden travel overseas is on the cards. Tip: "Where there is a will, there is a way" is an old saying that holds true in your case this week. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. CAPRICORN: Romance is on the cards. Expect a delay in finances. But this is just a passing phase. Take a break. Tip: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success Lucky colour: Sky blue. AQUARIUS: You and your partner might disagree on a few issues. Instead of fighting, talk it out. Every thing good will revolve around your love life. Beware of strangers on Wednesday. Tip: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky colour: Silver grey PISCES: You are a perfectionist and set high standards at work. But don't try to expect faultlessness from others too. Your dreams will be fulfilled this week. Tip: Be practical Lucky colour: Ebony. |
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Go attend, gatecrash, get invited at one or have one thrown in your honour. You are never popular enough unless you party, which is why these bashes remain a must attend preferably before you step out of your teens or before you hit the twenties. Didn't Cameron Diaz admit, "I did all my heavy partying before I turned sixteen?
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Graduation party: Not for the grades, not for the distinction, nor even for the fun, but for the sheer significance of having graduated, which is why a graduation party remains one of the 'most' attended bashes or one of the 'must' attended bashes. You've grown up, have graduated; are qualified, grown up, independent - calls for a party for sure!
Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif says that she likes romantic books and believes in happy endings. "Though I am not an avid reader I like romantic books. Love is a good thing. At times in love, there are disappointments, one must not keep expectations.