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In need of ACCESS
However, they are not very prominent in fashion weeks. Accessory labels often collaborate with apparel designers to showcase their line, but this does not do justice to the former. With the beginning of the Autumn/Winter 2011 edition of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week don’t accessory designer's want to take centrestage and have a solo show? "Everything is linked, whether it's accessories, garments or footwear. Everything put together makes fashion, but yes accessories have not been very prominent in fashion weeks yet," says designer Anju Modi. She adds, "Though jewellery is always complimentary to clothes and we have limited time slots, as a designer I would say we need space for our accessory shows since there is an equal effort in work." As for footwear designer Swati Mehrotra she says, "Accessory designers should also be given solo shows in fashion weeks, since accessories are as much important as clothes." She adds, "As an accessory designer I feel we don't get our due. The coverage is mostly about ramp shows, since accessory design in WLIFW doesn't come on the ramp, its not given equal footage. Just because they're not going on the ramp doesn't mean there isn't work involved. In fact, I would say there should be a separate fashion week for the accessories and we should be given equal importance. It's the apparel designers who get all the attention, but mind you clothes are nothing without a good pair of shoes." Though Lakme Fashion Week has one show where all accessory designers can showcase their products, but at Wills they just have stalls where accessories can be showcased. "I wish we could have a platform on the runway, where we could display our creativity," says an employee of a shoe company. Considering that apparel designers hog all the limelight, does it impact students’ choice? Says Poonam Thakur, from NIIFT, Mohali, "Some institutes have a separate course for jewellery or footwear design, but ours is an integrated course and we learn how to dress from top to toe."
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Cross-cultural connect
Chukuwuma Osakwe, a 32-year-old from Awka, the capital of Anambra State, Nigeria, has finally realised his dream of making a film. Almost through with the shooting of his film J.U.D.E., Osakwe had to face a lot of struggles before he could accomplish his dream. Denied visa for the US and the UK, where he wanted to learn film-making, Osakwe turned to Bollywood to learn the art. An Internet search showed him the doors of film schools in Mumbai. Not happy with them, Osakwe turned to Mad Arts Jaspal Bhatti Film School. Osakwe started writing the script for J.U.D.E. while pursuing his course at the school last year and left with a promise to come back. And he is back in Chandigarh since the last few months to shoot, along with the lead actor from Nigerian Daniel Lloyd. The film, which is a bi-cultural love story, also stars Loveena, who has a few Punjabi serials and a Hollywood project A Decent Arrangement' (to be released) to her credit. "The film should strike a chord with many Asians and Africans for the experiences it projects," says Osakwe while sharing his journey with the media at the Chandigarh Press Club-27 on Wednesday. Failure is not an option for Osakwe, who moved out of his comfort zone to learn film-making and shot a major part of the film in Chandigarh. The film charts a love story that faces opposition from families on account of race, colour and cultural differences. "Bringing two cultures closer is what I have tried in J.U.D.E.," says Osakwe, who even after a few months in India still gets surprised at many things. "I wonder why men and women sit in different sections at ceremonies," questions Osakwe, while sharing that in his country, men and women mix up freely. However, there are many things that he has learnt. "I had seen a turban, but knew nothing about Sikhs before I came here. Through the film, my aim is to educate people about various cultures," says Osakwe.Mad Arts School is all for its former student, whom they have helped in every possible manner in making the film. "His is the story of inspiration for many students, who are forever looking for shortcuts," says Savita Bhatti, CEO, Mad Arts
School.
mona@tribunemail.com
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Here’s the party tonight!
A few minutes of conversation with DJ Bijan is like doing a comparative analysis of the party circuit in Chandigarh. "Las Vegas was the first disc in Chandigarh. Before that there were a lot of places they would call a discotheque, but they weren't really discs in the real sense of the term. After that Cloud 9 happened and then we had Jailhouse Rock and after that Aerizzona opened up. From then on the party culture gradually began picking up in the city," he recalls the Chandigarh story. From then, there's no looking back. Inarguably, one of the first few Disc Jockeys of the city, he calls himself a product of this place. "Chandigarh is my hometown. I grew up here and spent 25 years of my life here," he says. For someone who's known the clubbing scene from the time when it did not even exist, the city has come a long way and the changes are quite stark. "I have been touring around the place and I see a lot of new and happening places. The lighting, the music et al everything is so good. And I see a lot of good parties happening." Music perhaps has seen the biggest evolution. "When music was a mixture of everything we had a gang of foreigners, a significant number of Punjabi crowd and youngsters who had travelled places. For them we'd play a lot of popular numbers." His personal favourites include trance, hip hop. "I am used to different crowds. I really enjoy hip-hop. And like playing trance too. But I believe in mixing a lot and playing for the floor." For as he puts it, "We play for the crowds and enjoy playing what they enjoy dancng to the most. If the floor is happening, the DJ is happening." He's currently teaching as faculty at a university in Tehran, Iran and a concert is on the cards. "I do concerts back in Iran, where we try to promote Indian music. We are also planning to do a sufi concert here where I'd be bringing Iranian music." the event happens in September and Chandigarh figures in the list of touring cities. "Oh yes, definitely Chandigarh would be one of the cities we'd be touring because this is the place to be." Perhaps an album too would happen around September. "It would have a fusion of Persian and Indian classical music and would be very lively." manpriya@tribunemail.com
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The
‘in’ side Sukhmani
n
Circular or Oval shape-This has the tallest flower stem in the centre and the colour and size gradually decrease towards the edges. This is a formal arrangement. (Sukhmani is a
Chandigarh-based interior and landscape
designer)
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Trek to horror
What comes to mind when you talk about horror films? A creepy evil spirit and lots of blood! However, Harish Sharma, director of Two Nights in Soul Valley, says that his film is different, “My movie is based on supernatural events. It’s an adventurous film.” The film is a commercial venture. Five college friends decide to go trekking where scary things start happening to them. In the main lead is Hemant Pandey (Pandeyji of Office-Office fame) and other actors include new faces from Chandigarh. From ‘Office’ to horror flick
Hemant Pandey is popularly known for his comedy roles, but he has always wanted to essay serious ones. “No one offered me serious roles, so I never got a chance to showcase my talent,” says Hemant. He feels that this film marks a new beginning, “People would find me in a different avatar in this movie; I haven't even smiled, leave alone comedy,” he says. New kids on the block
Sumeet Sharma, Gaurav Shah and Aakashi Khari are the fresh faces in the film. "We play college friends who decide to go for trekking. During the trip, we come across unknown forces of nature and some weird incidents occur. Then the story becomes an adventurous tale," says Aakashi. Gaurav Shah, a young Chandigarh lad, feels blessed to have grabbed the role. Sumeet Sharma says, “To get this challenging role in the beginning of my career is a great feeling. Let’s hope I can carry it forward.” |
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Dance is her union with God
The gestures speak volumes: Kavita Dwibedi, an Odissi dancer, is a living example. “Expressions of love, anger, pain or request are portrayed through gestures depicting emotions. No words are used in the dance,” she says. Kavita Dwibedi was in Chandigarh before leaving for Sanawar in Himachal Pradesh for a performance organised by SPIC-MACAY. The dance form
Odissi dance goes way back to the times when Jagannath temple was built in Puri. Since Odissi dance hails from Vaishnav dharma, so the dance was performed as a tribute to the Lord. "Odissi dance enacts episodes from holy epics on Lord Vishnu and Krishna." "One person plays all the characters," she says. Kavita feels that innovation is the need of the hour. She has tried to bring innovation in the dance form to make it contemporary. She does all this within a frame so that the essence is not lost. “Apart from depicting stories, we have also started enacting bhajans of Meera, Soordas and Tulsidas,” Kavita adds. She has based her performances on themes such as female foeticide and global warming. Philosophy of dance
“This dance is a medium of worship for me,” she says. Kavita feels blessed that this dance form has given 5 D’s in her life: dedication, discipline, devotion, determination and divinity. For her dance is a practical aspect of life. She feels that every artist experiences moments where they are united with the Almighty. “In my every performance I get a split second when I feel one with God. That’s then when I feel like I have achieved everything,” she says. Even after rigorous practice of about 25 years, Kavita still calls herself a student. “The whole attempt of the performance is to reach the other level. So, I call myself a practitioner rather than a performer.” She believes if one needs anything he/she has to go and get it. It won't come to you. “The youth wants to come back to their roots. Some are able to find their way and some get lost. It is our responsibility to make sure that they know about their true identity,” says Kavita. She says this will help the youth define their own self. |
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GET PHYSICAL Anup Debnath
Apart from the great figure that aerobics can give you, there are a host of other benefits that physical exercise gives. It enhances or maintains physical fitness, as well as overall health and can help by strengthening muscles as well as the cardiovascular system, honing athletic skills; weight loss or maintenance. Frequent and regular physical exercise boosts the immune system; helps prevent cardiovascular diseases, Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Regular aerobic exercise has several benefits. n
Gives you glowing skin. Cycling, swimming, walking, running, hiking or playing tennis and all forms of dancing are aerobic exercises. If you are keen on joining an aerobics class or starting a routine on your own always keep a few points in mind. Join a class with a certified instructor as then your chances of injury are reduced, plus you'll get a complete body workout. Ensure that the class you join follows essential rules for a safe workout. An initial warm-up followed by stretching is essential if you want to avoid any injuries. Try to ensure that your workout takes your heart rate to an optimum level and is maintained for at least 20 minutes. End your workout routine with a cool down schedule, where the heart rate is allowed to settle down, and stretches. (Anup Debnath is a
Chandigarh-based instructor for aerobics and yoga.)
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It’s rocking Ashima Sehajpal
Bold lyrics
Mika has done full justice to the track of 1986. The song has a flow, which makes it an instant hit with people. The lyrics are fresh, enough to make one plug in to the song. Certain words are bold, but if Sheila Ki Jawani was appreciated, this song too has a good chance. — Rajneesh Sharma, employee of a private firm Different take
The music of the song is different from the original version, but in no way is less entertaining. Lyrics are also very contemporary and words are picked from everyday vocabulary. I really liked the way it has been choreographed, with super energetic Akshay Kumar in the forefront. Irrfan Khan has supported Akshay with his amazing expressions. —Manish Aggarwal, PU student Peppy number
Mika has raised the bar of his singing once again after giving the superhit number 'Dhanno' from the movie 'Housefull'. It's a peppy number, which complements the music and lyrics of the 1986 original track, Pyar Do, Pyar Lo. The ensemble cast comprising Bobby Deol, Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Irrfan Khan adds to the fun factor. — Vivek Sharma, BPO employee (As told to Ashima Sehajpal) |
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Chatter Box
Ashmit Patel had discussed his relationship with ex girlfriend Riya Sen on national television in Bigg Boss 3. Riya's sister Raima has slammed Ashmit and said that he is still using her name, as there is no other way that he could get publicity. Let's see how Ashmit reacts to Raima's accusation. Or, will his 'good friend' Veena Malik step up in his defence.
Sandeep to be a dad
Sandeep Rajora and his wife Roshie Rana are very excited and happy these days as they await their bundle of joy. After his arranged cum love marriage in November 2008, Sandeep is eagerly waiting for the birth of his first child. News is that Roshie will deliver this month and the couple and their families are preparing for the big day.
Ankita's swimming lessons
Ankita Lokhande aka Archana of Zee's Pavitra Rishta is as simple and lovely as the famous role she portrays. This no hang-ups girl loves to chat, laugh and chill with friends. "I love shopping too and that's what I do when free," she reveals that she is like any girl next door. No wonder her simplicity won over a million hearts. And, here are two things people didn't know about her. Firstly that she is a very good swimmer and secondly, that she was a state-level badminton player. But apparently Sushant can't swim. Why don't you give him some swimming lessons Ankita?
Hands full of work
Vindoo Dara Singh seems to be happy juggling films and television with aplomb. He is looking forward to his next movie Thank You, which is all set to release this Friday while he has been a regular on the small screen too. Vindoo's seems to be in love with television as after Sony's Maa Exchange, he shot for an episode of Sony's other court drama Adaalat. Vindoo's character was accused of killing his own brother and hotshot lawyer KD Pathak aka Ronit Roy helped acquit him. Vindoo has a special affection for three production houses Contiloe Telefilms, Cinevistaas and Sunil Agnihotri and he can never turn down any offer from them.
Shaleen back on small screen
Shaleen Bhanot, who was on a break from TV shows after Imagine TV's Do Hanson Ka Joda ended, is making a comeback with Beend Banunga Ghodi Chadunga on the same channel. He plays, Mihir, an eligible bachelor who is a prospective groom for Sarika (Jayshree).
Speaking about the role Shaleen says, "Mihir belongs to a Marwari business family. His family members are villagers but he has studied abroad and is very polished. I would describe him as a sweet guy who is looking for a nice girl to get married to." However, Shaleen also reveals that the role is just a cameo, for now. He adds, "I am not sure if my role will be extended as for now it is a cameo. The creative head of Beend Banunga Ghodi Chadunga is a good friend and that is the reason I accepted the offer." Shaleen also claims that he is happy that he is making his comeback on Imagine TV the channel, which gave him the hit show Do Hanson Ka Joda. "I am feeling very imaginative now (laughs). On a serious note, it feels great to be working for Imagine again," smiles Shaleen. Asked about what role he would like to play next, Shaleen quips, "I am looking for something different than what I have already done in past. Hopefully, I will get my dream role soon." The actor was also recently in the news for singing a movie. Shaleen says, "The movie will take time as it is still in the scripting stages. I can't reveal much about it for now."
We wish Shaleen good luck for his television comeback as well as the upcoming movie.
Balika Vadhu's 700 milestone Colors' Balika Vadhu, one of the most successful shows on the small screen which completely changed the face of Indian television, has reached yet another milestone. The show completed 700 episodes yesterday and is still doing very well. The show gave new heights to careers of child actors Avika Gor aka little Anandi and Avinash Mukherjee aka little Jagya. The audiences also loved the grown up Anandi and Jagya played Pratyusha Banerjee and Shashank Vyaas, respectively. Balika Vadhu, a story of child marriage of Anandi and Jagya, moved from the marriage topic to their marital issues now. Jagya is no more in love with Anandi now, as he has the modern educated Gauri in his life. There would be an interesting twist in the life of our Anandi soon, who loves Jagya very much.
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Astro Turf
TAURUS: Career affairs could be reaching a triumphant climax. You are in an ideal job. Health or chronic problems show obvious signs of improvement. Your spouse is likely to be in an erratic mood. Loved ones will be difficult. GEMINI: The card The Page of Swords reveals that you are noted for your resilience. Romance takes a turn for the better. Keep extra cash in hand. Be thankful for a beautiful partner and all those who offer devoted companionship. CANCER: You appear to need more clarity in financial or business matters. It is important that you get expert advice. Creative work is favoured over routine jobs. Teenagers: You may meet someone who'll set your heart aflutter. LEO: The Eight of Wands suggests that extra money is likely to come from somewhere. You will start off in a confident, optimistic mood. Life is not likely to run according to plan. Personal dreams, hopes and wishes are up for review. VIRGO There is breathing space now to get your act together. Stay focused on business to reap dividends. Family members are co-operative. Romance could lead to much turmoil. Expect visitors. Watch your diet. Tarot message: New offers must be put on hold, as their outcome is uncertain. Lucky colour: Creamy white. LIBRA: Reckless spending will be a cause for regret. No matter how tempting or urgent the purchases think twice before handing over cash. Vitality may be a bit low. You will get satisfaction from new work. Health of your spouse needs attention. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains. SCORPIO: Though you have sufficient funds but stick to window-shopping. Arrangements to meet friends can change at the last moment. Expect chaos and mayhem in traffic and at airports. Pay bills on time. A Taurus friend is at hand to wake you up. SAGITTARIUS: You will enjoy tidying up and sorting all your paper work. Check your bank account. Romance will be happy; good for looking up an old flame. Partnership affairs are in limelight. Be true to your feelings. CAPRICORN: There can be the calm before the storm. Do not bottle up emotions and become agitated. Plan some fun and relaxation with loved ones. Influential people will like your style. Health issues should be treated right away.
PISCES: Lots of secrets can make for an interesting day. Your partner could talk you into taking avocation together. Your social circle appears to be growing. Business will tick over smoothly enough. Read a good book at bedtime.
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The Year Ahead
This year provides an opportunity to explore yourself, your personality through meditation, reiki, yoga and other modern spiritual practices. Now be innovative and opt for theatre, cinema, films, creative writing, designing and other artistic pursuits. Number 7, ruled by Neptune, imparts originality and a distinct aura. If confused while opting for a career, consider mass communication, journalism and electronic media. Hotel management is another area where you can try for studies. You share your birthday with Jeetendra, origin name Ravi Kapoor (April 7, 1942, Amritsar). Since Geet Gaya Pattharon Ne, he has appeared in almost 200 films. Jitendra came into the spotlight in 1967 with Farz. Married to Shobha, he has a son Tusshar Kapoor and daughter Ekta Kapoor, who runs Balaji Telefilms. 2011 may bring some sea change in his company. |
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Beat It
(As told to Jasmine Singh) |
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Amidst all the attention showered on apparel designers we've always wondered what about accessories? Don't they form an integral part of fashion? In fact, it's the accessories that make fashion worthwhile!
The Autumn/Winter 2011 edition of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi has a record number of 141 designers take part this time - 77 on the ramp (in 41 shows) and 64 in stalls.
Flowers are widely used to decorate interiors. A flower arrangement is the combination of several elements to produce a visually-pleasing display of flowers. Flower arrangements give an aesthetic appeal to the ambience of any room and add beauty and grace. There are eight types of basic flower arrangements-
n
Crescent shape-This is in the shape of a moon and requires a lot of skill. Mostly flowers with flexible stems like gladiola and carnations are selected for this arrangement. These can be used on a coffee table.
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The 'S' shape-This is a very graceful arrangement in which a 'S' is created with curved branches and filled with flowers at the
centre.
Aerobics essentially refers to exercise routines that are performed to stay fit, lose weight or sculpt the figure. If you are looking to drop a few dress sizes, tone a flabby stomach to flaunt a pierced belly button, or get killer legs that'll catch everyone's attention, aerobics is the way to achieve all this and more.
Besides the catch line of the song, Pyar Do, Pyar Lo, there are a few more similarities between the original and inspired versions. Both songs celebrate youth and encourage one to enjoy it. Both have zany lyrics. So, no wonder, words like jawani, kam zindgani…find mention in the songs. The track from the movie Janbaaz has been well adapted as per the present times in the multi-starrer, upcoming flick Thank You. And here is why people are plugged to the song.
ARIES: Smile! It's a day when dreams come true. That may seem exaggerated but if you believe in something, it just might happen. Let your hair down and enjoy. Your ability to keep a secret is likely to be helpful. Tarot message: You will not get away with any wrongdoings so don't even try. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 30
AQUARIUS: Your personal skills and style of working are likely to be noticed favourably. A delayed financial matter should move forward now. You may receive a romantic proposition and be very careful about how you respond. Seek counselling from a wise person. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Peach.
If your birthday is April 7...
If you wish to switch over to a new vocation, try food joints, negotiate franchise et al. Government officials, if born today, must remain vigilant against legal complications specially if in the police department. New loans are best avoided in 2011. Parents' or spouse' health may be disturbing. 
RJ Simran’s song of the day