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BEATS
of the land
Chandigarh is an integral part of Punjab…is what we felt on this scorching Thursday, when we had a chance to meet not one but three Punjabi singers, two of them here to launch their music albums! Well-known Sufi singer Hans Raj Hans; lyricist, singer and soon-to-be-actor Indra Dhillon and Kulwinder Singh Johal, folk singer settled in Derby, UK, all had a few strands in common that we picked up.
To start with, all three were born in villages, none planned to take up singing as a career and most importantly their love for Punjab. All for tradition
Hans Raj Hans stands tall with his Sufi renditions and he is grateful to god. “I was born in a mud-house in a small village in Shafipur, near Jalandhar. Becoming a singer is not what I planned for,” he says, as we catch up with him at Hotel Mountview, Sector 10, Chandigarh. On a personal visit to Chandigarh, Hans, who divides his time when he is not performing around the world between Jalandhar and Mumbai, is not too happy about the current path that Punjabi music is treading. “I wish all well, but then I am for guru-shishya parampara. One needs to preserve our rich heritage and we cannot do that if we don’t learn,” says Hans. Hans is still connected to his roots and has made a small fort at his native village. “Wherever I am, in the hustle-bustle of Las Vegas or some Irish countryside, I only dream of my village. It still find solace only under that huge bargad tree in my village,” says Hans, who is busy working on one Sufi album Ek Ishra and another Punjabi one yet to be titled. Desi in videshi land
Kulwinder Singh Johal, in Chandigarh to launch his first solo album Folk Star of Punjab, moved to the UK at the age of 18 from Jandlaya Manjiki, a village near Jalandhar. Now three decades in Derby, Johal has found his kind of people and making music that they like. Johal already has to his credit many multi-starrer albums The Land of Five Rivers with Panjabi MC. His single is also used as the theme tune for The Great Khali on World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). With a regular job on hands, Johal got such a great response to this album, released as Munde Punjabi last year, which he decided to launch it in India. “When I move to England, I would sing in gatherings, mostly celebrating festivals but now I am increasingly singing in clubs. Most weekends are booked now,” says Johal. As for his style, Johal sticks to folk, even in his video he is dressed in traditional attire and songs as well as lyrics celebrate the Punjabi spirit. “When I started singing, my friends gave well-meaning advice ‘your style is too old’ but I wanted to sing what gave me satisfaction,” he says. Johal, who often comes to his village to meet his brothers, misses the Punjab of his times. “My village has totally changed. Rural set-up has given way to malls. I am not against any development but I just miss my times,” he says. Under transition
Fateh the Victory is the third album released by Indra Dhillon. This jat from a village near Kharar tills the land just like other villagers. Dressed in a red Superman t-shirt, Indra is confident that his new album will also get popular among the masses just as his earlier two versions of Khule Sher. Having started with lyrics in his college life, Indra started singing and cut his first album in 2006. Another one followed soon and next was stage shows around the world. “Our Punjabi culture is so rich and it’s my humble effort to take it around the world,” shares Indra at the launch of Fateh at the Chandigarh Press Club. With a Matrix-like look on the cover of the album, how is he propagating Punjabi culture? “Even in my village everyone is hooked on to the Internet. So I had to go for a look that the youth connects with,” he says. His songs have the old feel; Nain Preeto De evokes the old-world feel but then this Preeto wears jeans! He is aiming at bringing more of folklore into his albums. “Earlier I wrote and sang about hathiars (weapons). But in Fateh, I have a song on folk instruments,” shares Indra who aims at making a Punjabi flick next. And, as the trend goes, he going to play hero as well. “Even videos require one to act; I am confident that people would love me on screen too,” says Indra. After the conference, he’s back to his fields, till he catches a flight to California to perform at a hotel launch! mona@tribunemail.com |
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Good news for all you tall guys — women are enticed by your height! Women prefer taller men because they are physically more powerful than shorter men. In evolutionary terms, height makes men more useful for women, says researcher David Carrier of Utah University, US. "Women are attracted to powerful males, not because powerful males can beat them up, but because powerful males can protect them and their children from other males," adds Carrier. The scientists attribute the evolution of upright walking to the hard punches that our prehistoric ancestors could deliver when standing on two legs. "The results of this study are consistent with the hypothesis that our ancestors adopted bipedal posture so that males would be better at beating and killing each other when competing for females," says Carrier, reports the journal Public Library of Science One. "Standing up on their hind legs allowed our ancestors to fight with the strength of their forelimbs, making punching much more dangerous. It also provides a functional explanation for why women find tall men attractive," adds Carrier, according to the Daily Mail. Carrier studied the power of punches by male martial arts experts and boxers as they struck out in four directions - upwards, down, sideways and forwards. — IANS
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Show it off
There was a time when fashion was all about bell bottoms, polka dots, buffoons and platforms. Today, it is about chocolate. Yes, the latest show of designer outfits by the students of Indian Institute of Fashion Technology will have a special 'dipped in chocolate' round! One among the lucky 12 models, who are in Chandigarh to walk the ramp at 'Lakshya', their fashion to be held at Bella Vista, Panchkula on May 20, will wear an outfit made out of liquid chocolate. Of course everyone loves the dark sin and when it's draped on a woman, nothing better!
Choreographer of the show, Kaushik Ghosh, who just wrapped up a fashion show in Canada, feels that Indian designers are now reaching a saturation point. "With so many fashion weeks and couture shows happening everywhere, it becomes very difficult for the senior designers to constantly innovate and make a statement. This is where the young blood can take over. Even the fashion industry needs a whiff of fresh air," he says. The fashion show enlists 14 collections made by the selected 12 students out of the batch of 50. "The first time when I choreographed the collection of students of IIFT, I was doubtful if they would be able to sustain in the competitive industry of haute couture. Today, even I am pleasantly surprised that they have not only improvised but also made efforts to ensure that they match up to the level of a Wills Lifestyle Fashion Week or the Lakme India Fashion Week. I must credit them for doing a phenomenal job in their respective areas of proficiency." Not only Indian models, even foreigners will don Indian wear. Introducing Anna, Kaushik says, "She has several internal brands and fashion weeks in her kitty. It becomes vital to break the mould of 'only Indian' models and introduce Western models on the ramp. Since she is 6-feet tall, she is sure to look gorgeous in the various outfits. My other models, including Donna, Ashita, Devika and Ananya, are all popular faces in the modeling industry." Elaborating on the collection to be showcased, Kaushik spoke about the four basic sequences it will be divided into. "Broadly, the outfits will include fusion, contemporary, Indian-traditional and Indian-Western," he shares. Apart from the outfits, music tends to play a significant role in attracting the audience. "I always ensure that my music and the collection blend and make the fashion show an experience to savour. Keeping this in mind, I have also mixed the music for the show," he smiles. Informs Kanwaljeet Singh, Director IIFT, "These shows provide a platform to young designers and help them explore their creativity. Most of our students are picked up by big brands and grow in their fields. Since the last two years, we have 100 per cent placements and our students are established not only in India, but also in fashion hubs around the world. We provide industry-oriented training," he says. "My favourite theme out of the 14 is definitely the 'Bheegi Bansati', not only because of the name but also the clothes. Pakiza will focus on the traditional suits and Delhi Ethno will be all about the sensuous sari," Kaushik says. The show will be co-sponsored by Zaira diamonds. Their collection will be showcased in Delhi Ethno and Pakiza. "Since we are the only international brand, the models will wear our jewellery in the two rounds of the sequence," says Manoj Jain MD of Zaira Diamonds. "There was a time when haute couture or high-end designer-wear was important. Now, since the designers are also cost-cutting, prêt couture is becoming increasingly popular," says Kaushik while taking his models out for a photo-shoot. |
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Amitabh Bachchan has rendered a song in Sujoy Ghosh's Kahaani. The film stars Vidya Balan as a pregnant unmarried woman. Big B has sung Rabindranath Tagore's Ekla Chalo Re, the music for which was composed by Vishal-Shekhar. Maximum addition
Saif assessment
We hardly see you. Why is that?
That’s right, because I don’t like to stay in the spotlight 24X7. I come out when my film is releasing, to let people know about my film. I also don’t do 4-5 films a year, as I love doing one film a year. I enjoy myself the rest of the time. Is it a personal decision to do one film a year?
Yes. I select films very carefully. I don’t want to be just a heroine. I want to be known as an actress. I select films which make me smile. I am more keen on doing substantial lead roles with some meat in them, not necessarily the hero-heroine types. I am too choosy when it comes to picking my kind of script. What made you choose Soundtrack?
It was the script. Believe me, one needs to watch the film to believe my words.
Hrithik Roshan will be seen in a dance video to promote his reality show Just Dance. The show will be judged by Farah Khan and Vaibhavi Merchant. Hrithik will dance and guide participants on the show. The video was conceptualised by Arjun Sablok and directed by Karan Johar. The song was composed by Pritam.
SRK hosted a big bash recently. Brett Lee was besotted by Deepika Padukone and kept flirting with her and sang songs dedicated to her. She was embarrassed by this and then SRK went by her side to make her comfortable. The association between cricketers and heroines will never end.
Kangna Ranaut’s character in Once Upon a Time in Mumbai was an amalgamation of actresses from yesteryears. Anurag Basu wants her to play Madhubala in a biopic on Kishore Kumar.
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chatter box Sai Deodhar-Anand, who is on a break from her TV career, has now become very spiritual these days. Though pregnant and due in August, Sai follows a ritual. Every Tuesday she visits a famous temple in Juhu. Sure when expecting one feels closer to God, but it is nice to see Sai taking divine help during these days of her life. Vishal’s gay encounters We heard that while shooting in Switzerland for his show, Saath Nibhana Saathiya, actor Vishal Singh aka Jigar had a gay encounter. Apparently, a 35-year-old guy came to him and told him how hot he looked and how cool his acting is. The guy had seen Vishal's scenes when the unit was shooting. Soon after, he would follow Vishal wherever the unit shot. The nail in the coffin was when he came too close for comfort and asked Vishal is he could kiss him. Flummoxed Vishal didn't know what to say and the unit burst out laughing. Looteri Dulhan to go?
Rohit’s love life
Sparsh rejected
The paanwala cop
Aamir Ali, aka Bajrang Pandey in FIR, seems to have got into the skin of his character thoroughly. As his character loves paan, Aamir, on an average, ends up eating at least four paans a day. This has resulted in regular visits to the dentist which he has to for regular cleaning. His family and even girlfriend Sanjeeda call him paanwala cop. Look-ing back
Karan says, "Yes we will be going back to our look from Season one. Arohi will be sporting her Om pendant and her anarkali salwars while I will have my hep and cool look. I think this is for the first time that an Indian TV show will have a sequence like this and it is a smart move. The fire sequence is also happening and will probably be aired tonight itself." Kritika was too busy to comment. — HRM
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The year ahead
Your new year commences today and there are bright chances for financial improvement in 2011-12. You may earn profits in investments. However, you are advised not to jump to conclusions and examine all aspects critically before you take any decision. You may be inclined to experiment or launch a new initiative around September. Have fun by organising get togethers in the winter holidays but leave your personal life out of discussions.
Those suffering from some ailment can hope for a swift recovery near October. You can look for some improvement in mental and physical health on the whole. Generally a good year health-wise. Your energy is just right for personal business, spiritual growth, development and education. While all this is going on, Jupiter and Saturn, two major planets, will help you keep firmly rooted. |
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Off colour on RED!
A flashback to Cannes 2010 is like touching a canvas in many colours. Kirsten Dunst in an electric blue Chanel, Diane Kruger in a fuchsia and black tube gown, Salma Hayek in a plum shade; even Aishwarya Rai flaunted a flowing Gucci gown in magenta…indeed, there were ample colours on the red carpet. Cut to Cannes 2011, Aishwarya Rai seems to have pledged to sport strictly nude and earth shades. Much against what was anticipated, Sonam Kapoor made her red carpet debut in a white couture dress by Jean Paul Gaultier. Angelina Jolie was in Black and so was Mallika Sherawat. As magenta, orange, yellow, green…go missing from Cannes this year; we try to find out the reasons. Are the nudes, colours of the season? Or playing safe better than a faux pas? Designer Preeti Kapoor from Delhi, who showcased her colourful ensemble at the Lakme Fashion week recently, feels stress was laid only on the ‘designer’ tag. “You expect a lot from the red carpet of Cannes, lot of colours, cuts and silhouette. But when a young face like Sonam wears a white dress, it’s a bit disappointing. I would have loved to see her posing in an orange colour.” For that matter, Minissha Lamba too wore a beige off-shoulder gown. “The young actors can take risk with bold colours; seems like fear of getting the colour wrong made them choose safer options.” The black colour couldn’t, however, save Mallika Sherawat or Candice Bucher from the censure of the fashion police. Says renowned designer Varun Bahl, “On international events like these, it’s always a concern whether fashion analysts will approve of a certain silhouette and colour or not. Wish Mallika hadn’t drawn inspiration from Lady Gaga’s wardrobe.” At the same time, there’s no denying the fact that nudes have been the choice of giant fashion brands this year. Even Reena Dhaka and Manish Malhotra abided by the forecast of fashion pundits for their summer collections. Reena, in support for the nude shades, says, “Two parallel fashion trends are ruling the world this season - nudes and bright colours. Most international brands have also come up with their couture line in nudes, so we can’t blame celebs for walking the red carpet minus any colour.” She admired the look of Sonam Kapoor at the festival for her make-up and trail of the figure accentuating gown. “Nudes are the colours of the season, the only reason why most of the female actors went for them.” The only other colour that is seen this year besides the white, black, beige, grey and golden is blue. Daphy Brar, assistant professor at University Institute of Fashion Technology, regrets the colour-bland Cannes. “The new colours or patterns that celebs wear form the trend for us. However, this season wasn’t very encouraging.” Much against the claim that nudes and earthy colours are in fashion this season, she says that nudes have always been there, “And the status would never change. It’s the safest bet for any season. The fact remains that at an extensively covered event like Cannes, no actor wants to take a risk. A fashion disaster makes bigger news than a fashion statement.” Maybe, Queen Elizabeth’s marigold attire at the Will-Kat wedding can provide some inspiration! ashima@tribunemail.com
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At the moment
Currently, I am reading scripts which I had received even before F.A.L.T.U. I was waiting for F.A.L.T.U to release before taking further steps. I might sign a couple of films next month, and I am looking forward to doing something different. Memories
Ohh, shooting for F.A.L.T.U was great fun because Jackky and I connected so well from the beginning that everyday was like a picnic. Everyday we used to hang out and party after the shoot. It also helped us in creating our on screen chemistry and I am glad to make my debut with F.A.L.T.U. I also love the song which is still playing at every pub and party: Chaar baj gaye, par party abhi baaki hain! Wish list
I want to work with every actor in the industry. From Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan to Aamir Khan, they all are there on my wish list. I guess I will have better chemistry with younger guys such as Imran Khan or Ranbir Kapoor. If not an actress...
I would focus on modelling, as I love walking the ramp and being in front of the camera. Health
I am very particular about my health. I work out every day for an hour. I drink hot water at least once a day, and eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Being an actress, the schedules are hectic, and take a toll on your beauty and health. Yoga
As I said, I am very health-conscious. I love yoga. I practice artistic yoga, a form of power yoga. It keeps my body toned. And I don’t count it as my fitness regime, because doing yoga is my passion. Food
I am health-conscious, but I am a foodie too. My favourite dishes are chhole bature and kali daal made by my mother. |
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Hollywood actress Kate Hudson has said she is enjoying her pregnancy period and that she is keen on having another baby soon. The 32-year-old actress, who is due to deliver her first baby with Matt Bellamy, said she loves being pregnant and cannot wait to have another addition to her family. "I already can't wait to have another one. Seriously? I love being pregnant. Gosh, I could be pregnant all the time," said Hudson. The Bride Wars' star, who already has a seven-year-old son Ryder, with ex-husband Chris Robinson, said she and Bellamy are "really excited" to meet their new arrival as she nears the end of her pregnancy. —PTI
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Imran Khan was at his humourous best at the launch of the video of Bhaag DK Bose from Delhi Belly. The young actor spoke about his role in the black comedy, the impact the song will have, shooting in Delhi, the delayed release of the film and much more. Who is DK Bose? DK Bose hum hai. DK Bose DK Bose DK Bose (Laughs). There is nothing wrong with the name. Don’t badnaam him! Does the song Bhaag DK Bose represent the frustration of the youth? The youth can relate to this song, I definitely could. We are running from aandhi, girls, Vijay Raaz, the police and so many other things. The song is the anthem and spirit of the film. I loved it when I heard it for the first time and knew it would be a hit. Even Avantika loved it and she likes rock music. The idea for the song came from Akshat Verma, who has written the story of our film. He has come to India to destroy Aamir Khan’s career and all our careers. On July 1, he will accomplish his mission. You are playing a guitar in the song. Can you play the guitar in real life? I play the bass guitar in the song and I learnt three chords. I am not very good at it but Vir is very good and he played it. I managed to make it look real. Ram Sampat has sung the song and composed the music of the film and done a spectacular job. The lyrics are by Amitabh Bhattacharya. He is a talented and funny guy. Aamir had said that this film would ruin the reputation of his production house? What do you think? I think that is quite possible (laughs). The movie is not below-the-belt, but it is an adult film and we knew that from the very beginning. This film has foul language, violence and we are telling people that it is an adult film. We have got an ‘A’ certificate from the Censor Board. The film is not meant for people who are sensitive and under 18. This film is for people who like dirty, black humour. We do not want to mislead audiences. I have seen films with ‘U/A’ certificates and they are filthy with homophobic, racist, sexist and double-meaning jokes. I am stunned that people are okay with their children watching that. Aamir is very responsible as a producer and as an actor I do not want to cheat my audiences. Honesty is the best policy for us. This is not a family film. The film is a crime caper comedy. There is crime and there is lots of humour. It is in the genre of Pulp Fiction and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. That genre has not been well explored in India. There is a romantic angle also. —HRM
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The 47-year-old actor, who was earlier voted as the Hat Person of the Year, was ordered by his partner to part with his dear accessories. "He has hundreds of hats, two rooms in their Paris apartment packed with them. Vanessa wants some closet room but Johnny's hats are taking up too much space. She told him, 'Johnny, you get those hats out of here or I'm going to throw them all in the trash," said a source. —PTI
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Fashionista Name one thing that is common between our Bollywood glam dolls Sonam Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor to Hollywood fashion celebs Lindsay Lohan, Kate Moss, Victoria Beckham. All were caught wearing the much talked about trend this season when it comes to footwear.....on or off screen. We see them everywhere, a trend that is topping the charts this summer when it comes to footwear are the duo styles....platforms and gladiators. Talking of "platform" shoes, they come back year after year reinventing and re-enforcing themselves into ones wardrobe. Whether in a flat form or high heels, they are definitely the most practical and versatile pieces of footwear, epitome of comfort in style despite their amazing height. This summer brings in a massive range of platforms in styles to "die for"...shades one could never imagine and in embellishments you could never dream of...be it flowers, corsages, laces, shells, romantic ribbons, fur, fringes, prints in polka dots, florals, satin bows and tie ups, buttons take over the conventional classic tans and black with a vengeance, shoe designers go wild exploring the possibilities...moving n marching ahead to a world of glamour n drama. It is by rule essential to own a pair of platforms this summer. Our favourite pics for the season are platforms designed by d & g , Christian Dior, Bluegirl, Betsey Johnson, Stella Mac Cartney and Alexander Mcqueen. This very style has way too many pluses on its side it makes the wearer look taller n slimmer by adding a few inches instantly. It's perfect to be worn with your favourite summer outfit. This very style was seen doing many rounds on the runway this season. Flaunting summer's hottest 2011, shoe trends. It is very flattering to anyone. Type when paired with simple denims, skirts, maxi dresses, capris, minis, jump suits, tunics et al. Always remember when picking up a pair for yourself, you need to keep your body type in mind, pay special attention to the fit of the pair and ensure that you can balance well and can move around freely and naturally, otherwise your posture will look weird. Platforms help you elongate your legs and add an extra dose of feminine grace to your silhouette. Pair your favourite pair of plain coloured platforms with a printed ensemble or vice-versa. Never let two prints clash for survival. Many shoe designers got highly inspired by the movie Gladiator and took upon themselves to introduce and incorporate them into the modern footwear league and give to us a pair that was some what akin to the styles of that era but had comfort married to practicality. Another summer's must have product is the famous "gladiators" totally designer and trendy. If you are a little confused in spotting one here's how to home down to a gladiator...it is multi-strap footwear with plaits and stud details at times. Gladiator sandals are readily available in stores, these are extremely functional, trendy, easy on the pocket. They are suitable for all age groups. They come in styles that you will spot at any store are the flat gladiators oozing comfort by all means in flat soles, wedges , chunky platforms ,wooden soles, ankle length, to knee high gladiators. If getting a little more experimental go in for a tan , blue ,red , silver , golden and copper. A high heeled gladiator is a stylish pair made for all the fashion followers.these designs are based on the gladiators of the ancient "roman empie". it holds the feet beautifully and looks super sexy when worn with well fitted denims, strech pants ,pleated trousers , short dresses , skirts , jumpers n even suits n saris. For the super adventurous lot the designers bring to you the gladiator shoe boots. slip them on with skinny denims n lowers tucked in your boots or a short mini dress worn with this pair will immediately transform you into a style diva , but remember this particular style is only for the night n a complete no no for the day time. One can pick up these pairs at almost all shoe stores in the city and can choose from a huge variety available online. Google down to some shopping sites and you'll find some amazing styles at very affordable prices. A black, tan or white are also great options to invest in as they go with (Kochhar is corporate director, INIFD-8)
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green thumb Shrubs are a gardener's best friend. They give flowers at a time when there is no other flower in the garden. There are at least two times in a year when there are gaps in flowering in the garden. The period extends from September to February and April to June. The shrubs suit the gardeners the most as they stand at the same height and spread as gardeners want them to. They can be pruned at the time when they are dormant. Above all, they are free flowering. They are very easy to multiply too. Shrubs like Allamanda and Clerodendron thomsonae are often mistaken for climbers. Let us remove this confusion. These are shrubs with weak twigs and branches. You may call them the scandent shrubs, the ones that need some support to climb up and thus are confused with climbers. Allamanda is an evergreen shrub with very smooth, shining (polished) leaves that stand in contrast with the deep yellow blooms. The flowers are funnel shaped and are borne at the end of the twigs. The branches can be trained at will and also pruned when going out of bounds without affecting flowering as flowers appear at the end of the new growth. All thanks to the gardeners, who are always on prowl for something new, something different. They have found new colour, deep pink with still darker shade in the neck of the flower. The blooms of Clerodendron thomsonae are amazing. There is a natural contrast between the flower calyx and the petals, sparkling red and the dazzling white respectively. The twigs are weak in this case too. It would be better if it is pruned at one meter level and grow multi-branches. Let us have something different in garden to have an edge. (Narula is a horticulturist)
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Master Chef Rice corn salad Ingredients 5 tbsp refined /olive oil 1 tbsp vinegar or 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp castor sugar ½ tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp red chili ¼ tsp mustard powder 2 tbsp onions finely cut (opt) ½ - ¾ tsp parsley ½ tsp basil ½ tsp celery (opt) Method 1. Mix all ingredients and mix in a mixer for two minutes or simply mix with a whisk in a bowl. Ingredients for veggies 2 - 2 ½ cups chilled rice (after boiling, spread on a vessel with a wide base and keep under a fan) ½ tin sweet corn ½ - 1 cup corn 1 capsicum finely cut 2 hard red tomatoes 1-2 spring onions finely cut 1-2 red /yellow bell peppers finely cut (optional) Method 1. Boil rice and cool it 2. Prepare other ingredients 3. In a big bowl, add sweet corn 4. Beat manually with a whisk so that it becomes smooth 5. Mix the dressing well 6. Add veggies and mix well 7. Mix the boiled and cooled rice with a very light hand 8. Don't use steel serving spoon as it breaks the rice. Use either wooden / rubber spoon 9. Taste and balance 10. Keep it to chill in the fridge 11. At the time of serving, put into a jelly mould/bowl and simply upturn it on a chilled platter so that it is shaped into a round shape. 12. Decorate with corn, capsicum and tomato roses. (Veenu Dhanda a culinary expert from Mumbai has her own cookery school - "Cook'n' style" in Ludhiana for more than two decades. She shares a stylish, yet easy to make salad, with ingredients off the shelf, with our readers) (As told to Poonam Bindra)
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Chill out with cocktails!
What do you want after a long and tiring day at the office during summer? Certainly a different kind of drink, which is cool, relaxing and of course, with less alcohol! Cocktails are indeed the best option to beat the heat. "In summer, customers demand more of cocktails than the routine whisky and rum. Cocktails have a very refreshing effect and the need to have alcohol is also satiated," says Mohit Gupta, bartender at Kawa, Sector 26, Chandigarh. The combination of alcohol with fruit juice works well. "Cocktails are all about mixing one or two hard drinks with complementary fruit juices. So, the end result is a very tangy sort of a flavour, which a normal drink is unable to provide. It also gives the customer a chance to experiment with his or her drink,” says Vinay Kumar, bartender at The Lobby, Sector 26, Chandigarh. Cocktails are also popular for the variety of colours they can be prepared in. "While preparing any cocktail, look is the most important factor that we keep in mind. We always try to prepare the drink in such a manner that it looks attractive," says Piyush Thakur, bartender at Khyber, Sector 35, Chandigarh. Says Mohit, "Unlike other hard drinks, cocktails tend to have a better taste. So, it's perfect for both the first-timers as well as regulars. Juices tend to make the drink less bitter, thereby giving it a tangy flavour." Hit list * Summer Fruit Punch * Long Island Ice Tea * Bloody Mary with Shrimp * Lemon Orange Fizz * Blueberry-Lime Margarita
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Astro turf ARIES: Day of thankless work. Keep your eyes peeled. New attraction holds you. Be wary if dealing with property matters. Avoid confusion and keep things simple by taking one task at a time. Internet dating works for you. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 31. TAURUS: Hold expensive plans for now. Take care of your health. Playing with the kids and enjoying partner's company is a great way to relax. Some of you are on the lookout for a new home. You experience intense emotions. Enjoy an early night. Tarot message: Fitness routines and healthy diets are prescribed. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 54. GEMINI: Business folk: keep options open. Students: Study. Artists may be in the limelight. Good day for property matters. Love and travel figure prominently. Change your daily routine. Find a balance. Go out and do something you enjoy. Watch out for people who drain your energy. Tarot message: Accept the benefits coming your way. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 46. CANCER: Recover long-pending dues. Speculative enterprises should be shunned. This is a good day to seek the support of people in authority. Involve yourself with a club or group. Avoid misunderstanding and irritability. Meditate and go for retail therapy. Dress to impress that special someone. Tarot message: Compromise outside and come to terms within yourself. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 63. LEO: Put all of your energy in your work. Build savings. Impulsive persons may upset your plans. You will receive an important message from abroad. A financial windfall may arise. Plan a special treat for your beloved. You face challenging cosmic aspects today. You develop friendship with neighbours. Tarot message: Watch health problems. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 29. VIRGO: You have a lot of personal plans. Not the right time to put original ideas into action. Wait and watch. An invitation for a romantic dinner from someone you hadn't noticed likely. Contact siblings. Your heart and mind are in tune. Tarot message: Cut away the frills and concentrate on what is truly important. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 49. LIBRA: A loved one is hard to please. Two of Words signifies success in interview. Legal tangles will be smoothed. Lucrative negotiations are favourable. Unexplained occurrences can slow you down. Business negotiations are successful. Tarot message: Cultivate understanding & humility. Lucky
colour: Saffron. SCORPIO: Emphasis on fairness. A new business project is on the cards. Artistic pursuits are highlighted. Love stars will be at the peak. Students: Career is priority. Relaxation and comfort are needed. Visitors will come knocking on your door. Tarot message: Resolve conflicts through discussion. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 51. SAGITTARIUS: What starts out as an ordinary day can turn into an out of the box. You may find yourself out of your comfort zone but won't last long. Good friends and interesting conversation will be the norm. A discussion with your partner could become emotional. Tarot message: Think before starting a new project. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 52. CAPRICORN: Many issues need to be sorted out today before lunch. Increase cosmic trends suggest a downbeat tone to the day. There is risk that you will try to do everybody else's work. A lucrative business deal looks promising for self employed. Tarot message: Avoid splurging. Lucky colour: Sea green. AQUARIUS: Lovers: meeting first time; you may be feeling very nervous. Health problem of relative may disturb your evening. Seek arrangements to pay off any pressing bills. Work out a budget that suits your lifestyle. Be careful in what you say and stay calm. Tarot message: Don't criticise others. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 40. PISCES: Housewives: go on self indulgent shopping spree. Bizfolk: you may be under some stress this morning. People in powerful positions are willing to help you. Time spent soul-searching can be very valuable. Romance and intimacy are very fulfilling. Tarot message: Get rid of negative feelings. Lucky
colour: Silver. |
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Anjana Sukhani is the latest addition in the cast of Kabeer Kaushik's Maximum. The actress will be romancing Sonu Sood in the film. She plays a Bollywood actress who uses her charm to woo Sonu Sood who plays a cop in the film. The film also stars Naseeruddin Shah and Tabu.
Saif Ali Khan is not very happy that a certain Dalit group has protested against his role of a Dalit in Aarakshan. He said, “I think people should watch the film before taking any action or making any claims. We have worked very hard on the film and it is unfair that people are protesting before the film is released.”
Bollywood actress Soha Ali Khan may not have given any solo hit, but she is known for her acting prowess. She has established herself in the industry. We talk to her about her upcoming film’s Soundtrack opposite Rajeev Khandelwal, and more.
He’s got the move
Lee way
Madhubala again?
Sai goes spiritual 
Buzz is that BAG Films’ Looteri Dulhan on Imagine that started in March hasn't been garnering expected TRPs. The other show that aired along with it Beend Banoongaa Ghodi Chadhunga has been delivering as per expectations. Now we hear Looteri Dulhan is under the scanner and the channel has asked the producers to pull up their socks. Apparently the writer of the show Raakesh Paswan, quit the serial over creative differences. So the channel wants good numbers or the show just might be axed next.
Rohit Khurana more popular as Vansh of Uttaran is currently enjoying playing the bad husband in Star Plus Maayke Se Bandhi...Dor but there is development on his personal front. He recently revealed about his ladylove. He is in a live-in relationship with Neha who is a non-actor. Not denying his live-in relationship, Rohit claims that he plans to marry in the near future but didn't want to reveal too many details about his girl. 
The chhoti Ichcha of Uttaran, Sparsh went for auditions of Zee's music reality show Li'l Champs but though her acting talent captured millions of hearts, the little actress was not successful in winning the heart of the judges on the show. Though, they found her histrionics applause worthy, her singing left much to be desired. She was rejected and her aspirations to be singer were dashed. Chin up Sparsh, be better prepared next time.
Arjun (Karan Kundra) and Arohi (Kritika Kamra) from Kitani Mohabbat Hai 2 on Imagine TV have a surprise in store for their fans before the shows ends. A source reveals, "In a sequence this week in which Arjun Singhania and Arohi Ahluwalia will go back to their look in Season 1, where they played Arjun Punj and Arohi Shamra. There will also be a fire sequence just like Season 1."
Kamaal Rashid Khan (May 20, 1960) made his debut in 2008 with the film Desh Drohi. The film garnered some publicity in the wake of the 2008 attacks on North Indians in Maharashtra. He was in the 3rd season of Indian reality TV programme Bigg Boss. Astrologically speaking his horoscope forecasts true rags to riches story in the coming time. His new film on contemporary theme will be hit and he will shine like star.
Model-turned-actress Puja Gupta, who made her debut in Bollywood with F.A.L.T.U, is flying high as she got a good response after the film. Now, she is busy reading scripts. “I am glad that people liked F.A.L.T.U and appreciated my work in it. Many directors and producers called to congratulate me and I am very happy for the pleasant welcome I got from the industry,” says Puja. We talk to the beautiful Puja about life after F.A.L.T.U and more.
Hollywood heartthrob Johnny Depp's love for hats is well known but his partner Vanessa Paradis has ordered him to to get rid of his huge collection, which occupies two rooms in their Paris home.