POT of love!
There is something that makes mothers’ meals special…This Mother’s Day we pay tribute to mommies who have been dishing out culinary delights each single day
Mona

Up-MAA might not be your staple diet, but meals cooked by maa sure are! Each one of us swears by dishes prepared by mommy dear. Take any celebrity food column and you are bound to find a recipe cooked by mom in ‘favourites’.

Cooking meals is a given with motherhood. Even superstar Julia Roberts, mother to three – Henry (3) and twins Hazel and Phinnaeus (6) recently revealed how much her children love the food cooked by their her with much pride.

There might be hundreds of eateries dishing out chicken in our city, but for 24-year-old Varun Saini, it’s the one cooked by his mom that is the best. “Usually, chicken offered in hotels is oily and spicy, but what mum makes is absolutely out of this world. And, one can alter the taste as per the mood, just need to tell mom,” he says.

This caring son tries to make up for the yearlong practice by dishing out something special on his mother’s birthday. “Every year my girlfriend and I cook a surprise meal for her,” shares Varun.

A special meal for mom is what Aman Jot Kaur does too, albeit on Mother’s Day. “I feel fortunate to wake up to a breakfast cooked by mom,” shares Aman. “You know, the ingredients put in preparing a meal are the same everywhere, but it takes a mum’s knack to prepare that special flavour,” adds Aman.

Not so lucky is Rishabh Bansal who is putting up in a city hostel for studies. “I am pretty comfortable in the city,” says this lad from Pathankot, “but only if I could get mama’s food.” Rishabh misses sarson ka saag and idli-dosa made by his mum the most. “Going home during holidays means binging. I will be leaving on 14th after my exams and I know mom would have started planning those special meals,” he says.

What makes mum’s food special? “Well, it’s undoubtedly the love that goes in its preparation,” says Sumeet D Arora, a painter and photographer from the city. A good cook himself, he says, “But nothing compares mum ke haath ka aloo ka parantha.”

Nikhil Garg, an entrepreneur from Sector 7, puts it this way, “Nobody knows a child’s taste better than a mother. She only knows how her son or daughter likes it – feeka, khatta ya meetha,” says Nikhil who can’t stop obsessing over the rajmah chawal cooked by his mom.

Ananya(8) loves the paneer cooked by her mom. Everything that mamma cooks is yum,” she puts across innocently. Tushar, a class twelfth student, is more worried about not getting mum-cooked food when he leaves for the hostel next session more than anything else. Aman Sharma, a banker from Karnal, makes a trip each weekend for nothing more but mamma’s meal! This week he is taking a Mother’s Day present too!

mona@tribunemail.com

Missives from maa
Sonu Sood

I opened her drawer after a long time. I was looking for some letters she said she had left for me. My mother loved to write, especially poems that she penned for me.She would tell me that these poems and letters would remind me of her, long after she is gone. She indeed went, far and pretty soon.

I opened the drawers. A dairy neatly tucked under a table cover reminded me of my mother. My reflexes reacted and I closed the drawer but opened it again after a while. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I pulled out the dairy, went to my room and started reading the words, conjuring up the image of my mother writing them.

Yeh khwaish bhi hai aur iltija bhi

Rakhna Sonu par apni salaamati ka haath...

Her first poem was a small prayer she had written for her beloved son. My mother, the only woman on earth who believed I would be a successful actor one day! The day came, but she wasn’t around. Each time when Shah Rukh Khan would get an award, he would look up at the sky and thank his mother. Now, I know why. We take our parents for granted and ignore that they are our biggest support system. Haven’t you or me laughed on how star mummies accompany their darlings to shooting sets; I probably know why they want to ensure their kids are safe, even if they are stars in their own rights. We ignore them; think we have taken enough from life. On Mothers Day, like all kids I extend my gratitude to my mother for brining me on this earth, giving me what it takes to be a fighter today. I would have wanted her to come to my sets so that I could introduce her to my friends, my colleagues. Had she been around, I would have loved to watch her sitting in the front row while I would step up the podium to receive my award. But this day, I thank all mothers for bringing life on earth. I think the only reason why earth is still a safer place to live in because a mother is praying for her child’s safety. Today, I wish we could spare a moment to hug the woman who made all difference.

Poochta hun un sukhey hue patoon sey

us zamaney ki dastan jab ek ma apney bacchey ki ungli pakad kar chali ja rahi thi...

(The writer is a Bollywood actor)         

Mommy, mommy cool

Remember Wake Up Sid! and how Ranbir Kapoor snubbed his on-screen mother Supriya Pathak for her lack of command over English? Just like Supriya’s character, who starts brushing up her language skills in the hope “to be a friend” to her son, several mothers are grooming up and shaping up to enjoy their children’s friends circle. Sugandh Lamba, 23, a Kathak dancer, says she feels very proud of the fact that her mom dresses well, and looks almost of her age despite being 30 years older.

“I really like it when people compliment my mother that she looks as if she’s my elder sister, and I feel proud as she is 10 times prettier than I am. I think it is very cool that parents are trying to catch up with today’s generation and they also feel good about it,” Lamba says.

Similarly, Preeti Jha, 20, loves it when her mother puts on a pair of jeans and teams it with a t-shirt every Sunday, and insists that they must go to a mall together to have fun.

“It feels awesome to see that my mother makes so much effort to make me feel special, and pampers me every weekend. I don’t miss having a large friend circle and enjoy whatever time my mother takes out for me. She helps me shop and pick up chic stuff from the stores, we also go bowling together and watch movies together whenever we can. I also like making her wear clothes of my choice, and she loves it equally,” said Jha, a sociology student. However, the tendency to do anything to come closer to kids has been a feeling that has existed within parents forever, says child psychiatrist Samir Parikh. But the ways have seen a transformation over the years, he points out.

“I don’t think mothers per se that mothers are dressing up to improve their bonding. That tendency, to come closer to them, has always been there. It’s just that children, in their own ways, bring a change in adults. These days a lot of mother and children go out together and children tend to tell their moms, ‘Why don’t you wear jeans, you’ll look great’. So mothers comply to give little joys to their kids,” said Parikh.

“Additionally, people in our society have become more aware of fashion and dressing, there is a lot more comfortable variety of fashion that can suit people of all shapes and sizes. So even if an old-aged mother walks around in pants, it won’t raise many eyebrows unlike earlier. That has made mothers less conscious,” he added. — IANS

A leaf from life


Word-Wise: Vishvjit Prithvijit Singh

When the rich experiences of life are summed up in a few lines, you realise the worth of each word that form them! For each word means much more than its literal explanation. As Vishvjit Prithvijit Singh, former MP who was here at the invitation of Chandigarh Sahit ya Academy, reads out a few lines of his poems from the book, Kuch Shabd, Kuch Lakeerein, he attempts to convey the message that life is a great source of inspiration.

“I have penned down experiences of my life in my poems.” All the 45 poems, he asserts, are written in simple language. “I wanted the poems to reach the masses rather than be limited to the classes.” The book has been published by Yatra.

His next project is translation of Kissa Shah Mohammed, which is also an account of the collapse of the thriving Sikh empire. “It’s a subject of curiosity among people as to what led to the downfall of the Sikh Empire. My book would answer certain important questions.” However, he would not change the original style — ballad — in which the account was originally written. “In Hindi, I would ensure than the metric style of the work is maintained. In English, I would probably go for the blank verse.”

Vishvjit has served two terms as a Member of Parliament and is an avid photographer. “Different interests help you look at life with various perspectives,” he sighs off.

— Ashima Sehajpal 

Kiss & Tell

In 22 years of his showbiz career, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has perhaps hardly ever locked lips with his heroines and says he never will. He admits he is not just uncomfortable about kissing on screen, but doesn’t even know how to do it.“I don’t kiss on screen because I don’t know how to do it. I don’t do it because I feel weird...and I feel those who do it in films, do it well already,” Shah Rukh said.

“I feel discomfort in doing two things for films. When anyone comes to narrate a story to me, I tell them two things - main ghoda nahin chalaunga aur main choomunga nahin (I won’t ride a horse and I won’t kiss),” added the 45-year-old.

Shah Rukh’s well-known witty side came through when a young journalist asked him if reports that he has kissed Kareena Kapoor for his upcoming sci-fi superhero film “Ra.One,” are true.

Looking dashing in a formal black suit, he seemed to be quite amused at being asked such a question at a press conference meant for the formal announcement of Tag Heuer’s tie-up with Buddh International Circuit, the host of Formula One in India.

“Where did you read these reports,” he asked. “They are all over the internet, probably reported from Mumbai,” she said nonchalantly.

“How old are you my dear?” asked Shah Rukh, and the lady responded: “I am 25. But you shouldn’t ask a girl her age.”

Came SRK’s quick rejoinder: “Well, dear, you don’t ask such questions to men! You’ve asked me this, I am a simple guy, married man with kids...but don’t ask such a question to men on the street! But, because you are young, and possibly just stepped into journalism, please don’t believe whatever you read on the internet. It may not always be true.”

Shah Rukh says if a film requires him to do things which make him uncomfortable, he quits it. — IANS

Now you can bathe in chocolate

Fancying having a hot chocolate bath? Well your wait is finally over as confectionary giant Cadbury is all set to launch a range of bath products. The product will smell like three new flavours of its Dairy Milk Bliss bar.

The company has joined forces with cosmetic group Anatomicals to create a truffle bath creme, toffee body butter and a hazelnut exfoliating wash.

Cadbury's Bliss bars launched in September last year, while the range of good-enough-to-eat bath products will be available to buy in June.

This is the first time Cadbury has dipped its toe into this new market, which it hopes will attract young females and support what they call the "luxury theme" of the Bliss brand.

ANI

History recreated
Director Sukhwant Dhadda was in the city to promote his movie based on the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh
 
Vasudha Gupta


past revisited: Sukhwant Dhadda

Sukhwant Dhadda, of Ek Chaddar Maili Si’ fame, was in the city to talk about his latest cinematic experiment Sant Sipahi. The movie is broadly based on the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh. Working on the movie since the past one-and-a-half years, Sukhwant is excited to watch his efforts transform on to the big screen.

“The reason why this movie holds a special meaning is because I will be using the footage of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale, shot in 1984,” she says. Back in 1984, it really wasn’t possible for foreign journalists to shoot in Punjab. “I was then roped in for the assignment and that formed the roots of my movie.” Trying to keep the storyline under wraps, he drops a hint, “It is set in today’s time and is a revenge drama with political undertones,” he smiles.

The movie is not an experiment in terms of the treatment given to the screenplay but also with the actors. “I am trying not to rope in too many seasoned actors. More mature actors of the industry have a typecast attached with them and evoke a set reaction from the audience. It is this typecast, which becomes difficult to break,” he informs. “I will be using a lot of fresh talent and training them to acquaint themselves with the nuances of film-making. My attempt will be to get a natural performance out of them. This concept of roping unknown faces is prevalent in the Italian film industry,” he shares.

Talking about the special effects the film boasts of, he says, “What I had shot in ‘84 was not complete, I need to ensure that the footage is complete in its own respects and only foreign professionals can help in this task,” he says.

Elaborating on Punjabi cinema, he adds, “The problem with Punjabi cinema is lack of professionalism. The fact that most of our actors are singers is a pointer that we have drawbacks to deal with.” “I will always cherish my documentary, Nihang-a martial tradition frozen in time. It was the first documentary made on Nihangs,” he signs off.

Get rid of the smell

Many people suffer from body odour, but there is no need to despair, say experts who give their reasons for the predicament and suggest helpful tips.Sweating is not the only reason for body odour, but lack of hygiene, stomach disorders and eating too much non-vegetarian food could also cause it. So, a few changes in diet and lifestyle can help one deal with this problem too, say experts. A botox jab could also help tackle excessive sweating.

In some people, pungent body odour is part of their genetic makeup.

Maya Vedamurthy, Chennai-based dermatologist from RSV Skin Clinic, said: “People suffering from typhoid emit a characteristic body odour, diabetic people have a fruity body odour.”

So how can one deal with this issue?

“It is important to identify the exact cause behind the body odour. Reducing body weight in case of obese people helps in dealing with this problem. On a daily basis, one can use anti-perspirants

Apart from this, one can take the route of botox injections as well. —IANS

Party, your ishtyle!
There is no ideal party setting; it all depends on the mood as well as the occasion. It is rather an ever-evolving process
Manpriya Khurana

At five, fun meant playing dolls in a tree house. At seven partying was about musical chairs at a birthday. Come 16 and make it all about parties that extend at least up till four in the morning! At 25, perhaps, it’s been there, done that, moved on and what next? Youngsters’ ideas of ideal partying are never the same.


Ritika Virdi(L) with her friend                                       Dona (L) along with her friends 

Laughs Ritika Virdi, a former contestant at a reality show, “In my opinion the ideal ingredients of any party are when after you’ve had complete fun with a close bunch of friends, so much so that you don’t want the party to end. So you shift the venue and move places. For example, venturing up hills after the party or shifting the do to a close friend’s place.” She adds, “For their sheer innocence, I also like birthday parties, especially your own because you get so much of importance.”

Unwinding is an art, how you go about it is as varied as why you go about it! The definition of fun could involve mingling with a crowd of 500 strangers, could involve hibernating miles away with school-time best friends.

For Donna Virdi, homemaker, the definition of a good party is when you let your hair loose. “A perfect party is when you just chill out with your close friends. Without being bothered about rowdies or anything of the sort. Feeling secure and having a good time is the idea and essence of any party.” She adds, “Apart from that, new places are always fun. Good crowd is a must too.”

During graduation, it meant girls’ night out and boys’ night out (or booze night out!). How many times our idea of perfect partying has taken a U-turn? While some ideas are simple, others are elaborate, most involve alcohol, and almost all invoke memories.

Shares Reet Singh, fashion design student, “See it has to invariably include people you want to spend maximum time with. Just that where and how you want to spend time with them changes.”

In between the change of plans and places, are house parties an all-time hit? Shares Karan Chhabra, communication engineering student from a private institute, “Generally, the idea of what makes for a complete evening depends on the mood and need at any point of time.” He winks, “If it’s about girls, clubbing is a good idea. At some parties a lot of people just want to network. But on a serious note, slowly with age, clubs give way to lounges and lounges give way to close get-togethers at home. But house parties are a hit at any age because you can be yourself.” Chips in Donna, “House parties have an edge over any other venue because you can sit back and relax, and with clubbing there are so many restrictions regarding the dress or kids.” At home, no club rules apply. While the definition of a perfect party evolves, takes a u-turn or completes 360 degree, Kodak moments and close friends remain a constant. Venue no bar!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

Kiss & Tell

In 22 years of his showbiz career, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has perhaps hardly ever locked lips with his heroines and says he never will. He admits he is not just uncomfortable about kissing on screen, but doesn’t even know how to do it.

“I don’t kiss on screen because I don’t know how to do it. I don’t do it because I feel weird...and I feel those who do it in films, do it well already,” Shah Rukh said.

“I feel discomfort in doing two things for films. When anyone comes to narrate a story to me, I tell them two things - main ghoda nahin chalaunga aur main choomunga nahin (I won’t ride a horse and I won’t kiss),” added the 45-year-old.

Shah Rukh’s well-known witty side came through when a young journalist asked him if reports that he has kissed Kareena Kapoor for his upcoming sci-fi superhero film Ra.One are true. “Where did you read these reports,” he asked. “They are all over the Internet, probably reported from Mumbai,” she said nonchalantly.

“How old are you my dear?” asked Shah Rukh, and the lady responded: “I am 25. But you shouldn’t ask a girl her age.” Came SRK’s quick rejoinder: “Well, dear, you don’t ask such questions to men! I am a married man with kids...but don’t ask such a question to men on the street! But, because you are young, and possibly just stepped into journalism, please don’t believe whatever you read on the Internet. It may not always be true.”

IANS

EXtraordinary!
Extracurricular activities are integral to the learning process of any child today. Some even convert a hobby into a career
 
Vasudha Gupta

With an increase in the number of offbeat job opportunities available nowadays, the paradigm of education is changing from ‘bookish’ to ‘extra-curricular’. We catch up with a few ‘passionistas’ who have managed to grow in their extra-curricular activities and have made a name.

Match point: Ikttesh Chahal

Shares Mihir Raina, a guitarist who has been selected for the finals of a rock-based show, “It was during my class VIII that my brother got a guitar as a present. Soon after he lost interest, I developed it. I remember sitting under my bed, with a printout of a guitar lesson and developing my skill with the six strings. Now, it’s at a different level. I do hope the show will be able to provide a platform for our band and we can showcase our talent nationwide.”

When asked about the future, Mihir says it depends on the activity one takes up. “Music, for example, hardly has any future here. All great bands have struggled to make a name. Now, at this level, there is a very slow pace shift in our culture. Festivals are becoming popular, but it will still take time before we have a ‘Woodstock’ in India.”

Despite reservations in the mind of a few, it is not the case with everyone. Ikttesh Chahal, a class XII student of Carmel Convent School and a tennis player, has managed to secure a 100 per cent scholarship to WVU in West Virginia, USA, on the basis of her tennis skills. “I have been playing tennis for the past eight years now. I always wanted to study in the US because sports are prioritised there. The coach who selected me has already briefed me on the touring schedule when I join the university.”

RIGHT CLICK: Rana Gurtej Singh

Many a times, the schools also tend to push students into extracurricular activities. Rana Gurtej Singh is one such photo-enthusiast. He started photography during his school days; very recently put up an exhibition and donated all the funds to an NGO. “It was back in 2008 that my school encouraged me to participate in a photography competition. I was an amateur but won the competition at an international level. That was when my interest started growing and soon I created a page on Facebook while honing my skills at the same time. It was in November that along with a friend I put up an exhibition and managed to earn out of it,” he shares.

Apart from students, even schools realise the value of extra-curricular activities in today’s age. Says Aman Sidhu, principal of Strawberry Worlds School, “The focus remains on non-bookish education because we want to develop each child as an all-rounder. More than us, it’s the parents’ prerogative nowadays. They understand the value of soft skills and know they work. Moreover, what we have implemented in our school is a tried and tested method abroad. We are not experimenting. We understand the results and know they add up to the learning process.” 

astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: This can be a day that starts calmly and uneventfully, lulling you into a false sense of security. Trusting people who have just appeared on the scene is a foolish move. Go all out to improve your position at work.. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Grey. Magic number: 27 

TAURUS: Minding your business is a good choice. Live and let live is a good motto currently. If a task seems over whelming break it down into smaller, simple steps. Businesspersons will sign important deals in the evening. Caution is advised while driving. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow

Magic number: 38

GEMINI: Life seems full of contention at the moment and it is hard to get along with others. The postponement of a certain deal could cause you anxiety. Housewives: a good day for buying. Your social reputation is on the rise. Tarot message: Don't be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 40

CANCER: Self- employed and business owners may feel like putting in a few hours to supervise property ventures you are prove to own. Conditions at home will be pleasant enough. Do not speculate. It's critical to arrange a balanced life-style. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself, no one else. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28

LEO: If there is work to be done and you feel like doing it go right ahead. You should be in an up and doing mood. You have a more freedom of action. Romance will be happy for students. Tarot message: Focus on your goals, don't let setbacks affect you.Lucky colour: Violet. Magic number: 36

VIRGO: Today's the day to do something for your pleasure. Do all in your power to get agreements settled with your co-workers. A close rapport may be develop with colleagues. Not the right time to contemplate changing jobs. Your health may need more care. Tarot message: Don't be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 62 

LIBRA: Dreaming big! Yes, this is a first step in creating success. Teamwork is the keynote of the day. Older people may drum up certain problems for you. Do not walk about in a daze. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56

SCORPIO: The crowning fulfilment of achieving your goals and gaining recognition may arrive soon. Stay focused as you take the last steps to reach a journey's end. Consult professionals for legal worries. Love life is controversial. Tarot message: Infuse efforts into decisive action and professional achievements. Lucky colour: Bottle green. Magic number: 59

SAGITTARIUS: Like a game of snakes and ladders, you should step back down and need to retrace your steps over again. Get on with any job that is at hands. Pedestrians in particular, should watch out for careless drivers. Tarot message: It is no longer necessary to take risks. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 44

CAPRICORN: The Page of Swords reveals a good time to tie all loose ends together and take care of precious details with absolute perfection. You are in for a mixed day. You may find people in general rather unreliable. You will be comfortable at home. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Blue. Magic Number: 49

AQUARIUS: Searching for a soul-mate? You will be able to make the right connection effortlessly. All in all interesting & stimulating day. Someone you care about will see you in new light. Children will bring great pleasure to the parents. Good business opportunity comes your way. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 61

PISCES: The doorway to profound knowledge and insight may open through a wise acquaintance. Love blossoms in the workplace. Little would be achieved by a show of force at this stage. Friends will be helpful. Students: fun at the campus. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 31 

chatter box
Dolly to play Punjabi Lucy 


Comeback: Dolly Bindra

Actress Dolly Bindra, who was last seen in Armanon Ka Balidan on Imagine TV, is all set to return to TV but the bigger news is that she has turned producer herself. A source says, "Dolly has turned producer and now she is planning to produce three to four comedy shows. The first of which will be based on the hit English comedy show, Here's Lucy with Dolly playing the lead part."

Elaborating further the source adds, "Our desi Lucy will be a Punjabi woman who sports salwar kameez instead of dresses. The title of the show has not yet been decided but director Raju Parsekar has been finalised. Parsekar has earlier worked with Dolly in the comedy Hum Sab Ek Hai, in which she played Rakesh Bedi's wife." Get ready to watch Dolly as she tickles your funny bone soon.

Khatron Ke Khiladi and cricket

Play on: Anjum Chopra

Anjum Chopra, former captain of the Indian women's cricket team, is participating in adventure reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi and she hasn't left cricket behind.

All the boys on the sets were excited about having a cricket star among them so they are ever ready to learn various cricket strokes and get batting tips from Anjum.

In every spare moment that Anjum gets, she's seen coaching all the cricket enthusiasts on the sets in South Africa. Super cool.

Charms of Ekta

We all know that Ekta Kapoor loves her bracelets, charms and rings. While most are for some tradition, ritual or superstition, there are a few for fun too. As Ekta always admits to her beliefs and her reasons for wearing a variety of charms, she also claims that she likes to be God's favourite. Apparently every time she visits a holy place, she gets a ring, bracelet or charm and later doesn't feel like taking them off. Her beliefs in God and his power keep her going and she doesn't care a damn if others find it surprising, intriguing or plain puzzling that she chooses to overload herself with such trinkets.

Pratha in trouble

Spellbound and Walkwater Productions' Rishton Se Badi Pratha on Colors maybe the next show to be axed by the channel. News about the show is that after the leads Parul Chauhan and Vishal Karwal have put in their papers to quit the show, as they don't want to play mom and dad on the tube, the channel might not replace them but simply shut the show. The serial hasn't been doing great TRPwise and shifting the time too hasn't improved the scenario but worsened it as the ratings fell from 1.4 to 0.8. 

Get ready for the hot seat

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan will soon return to the small screen with the fifth season of his hit quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati in August. This will be the show's second appearance on Sony Entertainment Television. Big B's look this time will be styled by noted designer Rohit Bal. On micro-blogging site Twitter, Amitabh posted, "Yes, KBC back in August and this time for a longer duration than last time. A big welcome to all entrants, come join me. Designer for KBC of my clothes is Rohit Gudda Bal, dynamic and so good with colors, a kid in shorts in Srinagar, now celeb! (sic)." 

Bhabhi-devar bonding

Akshay Sethi, who plays Deepak in Sasural Genda Phool, is very fond of Ragini Khanna aka Suhana.

They play the role of a perfect bhabhi-devar and in real life too they bond very well.

He feels she is interesting to talk to, young and vibrant on screen. A birdie from the sets tells us both keep assuring each other that they have great future as actors on television.

Siddhesh's feminine side

Siddhesh Pai will undergo a complete transformation shocking the viewers in this week on Zee TV's Dance Ke Superstars. He will perform like a lady for his team Josh this Friday. Siddhesh dressed and dancing like a lady, wore heels and even changed his costume flawlessly thrice during the entire performance. The act was brilliant and enjoyed by everyone.

Li'l wonder

Popularly known as Ishaan Kashyap of Sasural Genda Phool, Jay Soni has just added another feather in his cap. He has been signed by Zee TV to anchor their best music reality show Hero Honda Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li'l Champs. Jay will be hosting the show along with Afsha Musani and Dhairya Sonecha, the anchors of 2009. Jay is excited to take the centrestage on Hero Honda Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li'l Champs and broaden his horizons. We spoke to Jay about his new job as an anchor and going beyond acting.

How did you bag this reality show?

After Sasural Genda Phool, I have been getting some pretty interesting offers. I got a call from Zee and makers of the show, and met them. They said they liked my style. One thing led to another, talks materialised and I went in for a look test. Once that was locked, I became the part of this show.

What do you like about Sa Re Ga Ma Little Champs?

It's a superb show and a brand today that provides credible platform to young singers of our country to display their talent. I am glad to be part of this show as I have grown up watching Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and Antakshari with my family. I secretly desired to be on stage and sing my heart out, but thank God I didn't. I am enjoying shooting and the atmosphere on the sets of the show.

How is working with child anchors, Afsha Musani and Dhairya?

They are superb and at the same time very naughty. It's great fun to shoot with them. They are the little wonders of the show and I really want the audiences to see all our masti we do while shooting for the show. We would play lot of pranks on each other.

What is more difficult, anchoring or acting?

Both are very difficult and different but frankly speaking, I am enjoying anchoring currently. Though it was very hard and one has to get the hang of it, but once you get on with it and start shooting, its fun. I am enjoying both acting and anchoring as both teach me something new daily.

Who is your anchoring icon on television and why?

I really admire Shah Rukh Khan's style as I feel he is a great entertainer. I love the way he interacts with the audiences, which I think is key to becoming a successful anchor.

Among television actors, who do you think is the best anchor?

For me, SRK is best anchor on television today. As for others, I feel they are good and doing a fine job. I don't have favourites as such.

How are you managing to shoot for Sasural Genda Phool and Little Champs?

It does get pretty hectic but I am loving all the excitement. As they say, no gain without pain.

What would be your message to your fans?

Thank you all for loving me as Ishaan Kashyap. Now, I want the same support and love from all my fans to accept me as anchor.

—HRM

the year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is May 8...

During the first six months of the year, you are likely to meet interesting people. You will indulge in unusual activities in May. Exert the effort that's required in June to develop the exciting opportunities. There's a great deal of activity to attract you in July but keep a sense of balance so you don't lose access to some significant assigments. Much of your previous activities seem to fall in place in August. You may have to forego some of the fun and social activities then, and again in September. You can enjoy some of the social life you love in November, although the work in December may interfere with your holidays.

In 2012, you shall be extra free to take independent decisions than to bank upon the partners. Determined, practical and dependable, you take a resourceful and steadfast approach to most matters in life. You like a certain level of consistency in your environment and you often have a natural resistance to change. Other people may view this trait as stubbornness. But as Taurean you will find a midway to surf successfully till your next birthday.

Melissa Gilbert (Melissa Ellen Gilbert) was born on May 8, 1964 and is a famous American actress, writer and producer, primarily in movies and television.

Gilbert is best known as a child actress who co-starred as Charles Ingalls's (played by Michael Landon) second daughter, Laura Ingalls Wilder, on the dramatic television series Little House on the Prairie (1974-1984).

As an adult, she has a very long list of acting, voicework, writing, producing and directing to her credis. Melissa also served two terms as President of the Screen Actors Guild. Her autobiography Prairie Tale: A Memoir was released.

 





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