This Khan is Super.One
King Khan came to Chandigarh with the first promo of his most ambitious project Ra.One, a superhero film with a heart
Mona

What if something meant to be played with, starts playing with your life…G.One comes to the fore to play the saviour…On Wednesday noon, along with welcome showers, appeared the King Khan of Bollywood to release the first promo of Ra.One at PVR Cinemas, Centra Mall, Chandigarh.

Not much later than the appointed time, the entertainer, who has billions of followers, walked in the auditorium to interact with the media. Dressed in a blazer, grey t-shirt and blue jeans, Shah Rukh looked every inch a superstar. The rest he wins audiences' heart with his humility for he talks 'dil se' (straight from the heart).

The interaction bares the man behind the entertainer whom Newsweek listed among the 50 most powerful people in the world in 2008. The talk revolves around the movie which is due to be released in October but brings in the people and values that matter in his life.

Premise of the movie is to choose right over wrong. "Evil has no face and circumstances cannot be blamed for making one. Any one of us can choose to be bad. Ra.One is about making children realise to be careful in what they wish for," says Shah Rukh Khan, a doting father in real life.

Good versus evil is the underlying message of this family entertainer, just like My Name Is Khan carries the message of not piquing anyone for a name, Chak De for women power and Om Shanti Om that of hope. "I want the audience to carry home something more than just popcorn entertainment at the end of the movie," says Khan. And, that's why he is generating buzz for Ra.One. "Going to the cinema costs a lot for a family, so I am telling people what my new film is about. To watch it or not is their freedom of choice," he says.

Unlike the buzz, Ra.One is not just a science fiction. "It's a wholesome Bollywood entertainer," clears Khan. A father-son story, with romance, comedy and songs, it's aimed at family, especially children. "Unfortunately, we don't make movies anymore that a family can sit through to watch together. Ra.One is one such attempt," he says.

Named after the bad character, Ra.One, the initial promos have not revealed villain's look. "That's for that intriguing factor," says Khan. Shah Rukh plays the saviour G.One, (his friends Karan Johar and Aditya Chopra even call the movie with that name). The flick has lots of jumping, flying cars and racy action. No blood or gory details here… to please women cinegoers it has balanced action with peppy numbers like the title track.

Quiz him on the super hero costume and he says calmly, "It's not as costly as reported in the media. In fact, digital treatment made the film more expensive." Probably, this is what makes SRK media's delight. He listens to each person, tries his best to understand, clarifies rumours without getting agitated, and steers clear of any controversy. And then he generates peals of laughter. Why is the movie named Ra.One? "This symbolises the mythological battle of Ram versus Ravan, good versus evil. G.One, the saviour, spells life. Also, it borrows from computer terminology," he explains, only to be asked the same question again in a different way. "Bas maine to aise hi rakh diya, industry mein apni position dekh ke (I named it just like that because of my position in the industry) he makes all laugh yet again. Only he adds soon after, "I make my films in all earnestness. And when I act pompous it's just to regale you all." As for romance in Ra.One, "It's there. What else is Kareena for," he says!

mona@tribunemail.com

direct connect

Shah Rukh comes across a person who respects everyone. He doesn't forget to thank the anchor who introduces him, poses for shutterbugs (yes, including his signature hug), even among the wall of bouncers he extends his hand to a waiting fan. Why did he not come to Chandigarh earlier? He says, "I have come to Chandigarh more often than you think. My muhbole Taya ji lived here and I visited often but guess you were too young to recognise me then." Chandigarh, according to the superstar, is the most beautiful and well-planned city in the country. "Chandigarh is the pride of India not only for its planning but also on social and economic parameters. I teach my children about this Le Corbusier's wonder."

on a song

Apart from being a hi-tech marvel, Ra.One’s another special attraction is Senegalese-American R&B singer Akon. He has given two songs in the movie and music for one. "Akon is hugely talented and pretty excited about it," says Khan. "I am proud of all movies that we make. But somehow we aren't as cool as Hollywood when it comes to technology. Ra.One takes it to the next level," he adds.

Bachchans’ day out

Amitabh Bachchan along with his wife Jaya, son Abhishek and daughter-in-law Aishwarya stepped out for a rare family outing when they went to watch Kung Fu Panda 2 and enjoyed the movie like the common man — with popcorn and soft drinks.

Big B liked the film, but preferred the first one more. After the outing Tuesday night, the 68-year-old says he would like to do it often. "Great fun walking into a cinema theatre, standing in line for the tickets and being ushered in to our seats. Putting on the 3D glasses, ordering some popcorn and drinks at the PVR. —IANS

Desirable guests
Simi Garewal comes with new show, chats with most sought-after singles

Yesteryear actress and TV host Simi Garewal is back on the small screen with a brand new show and she will get candid with India's most desirable single celebrities like Priyanka Chopra, Ranbir Kapoor, Yuvraj Singh and Siddhartha Mallya.

Ready to go on air June 12 on Star World, Simi Selects: India's Most Desirable will give an insight about what makes these celebrities swoon, what turns them on et al and do they give in to temptation?

"The show will be different than any other on television today. It's about getting to know the most eligible, beautiful and desirable men and women of our country. It's also about seeing various facets to them which you've never seen before," Simi said in a statement.

"And yes, it's also about humour, fun and entertainment," she added.

Known for wearing white as the host of her popular chat show "Rendezvous with Simi Garewal", she will be dressed by designers like Anamika Khanna and Shahab Durazi for the show and going by the promos they are experimenting with colours.

Also, this will the first Indian celebrity chat show with a live audience. Moreover, the show will also host a variety of fun elements like tarot card reading, question and answer session with the audience and super fun games designed specifically to reveal things you did not know about your favourite stars. — IANS

Simi loves men in uniform

Simi reportedly asked Shahid Kapoor to don the air force uniform he has worn in his upcoming film Mausam. Shahid was surprised yet asked the producers of the film who asked the Air Force authorities.

The request was turned down and Shahid came to shoot for the episode dressed in casuals. We guess Simi loves the look of a man in uniform.—HRM

No holds BARred
Deepali Sagar

"Maa'm, what can I get you to drink?"

"A tequila shot would do."

And this is what the Gen-new girls are all about. Bold, beautiful, bindaas and born fighters. Throwing prejudices or caution to the wind, girls now are openly asking for the bar menu. "It's perfectly fine for girls to go out and order a drink. It's no longer a guy's domain to drink at a bar. Nowadays, every girl is independent and capable of getting what she wants. So, having a drink or two out in the open doesn't matter anymore," says Prachi Kapoor, a consultant in Infosys.

Gone are those days when one would sit at home and wait for her boyfriend or husband to fetch her a drink. Now, it's all about picking up one's car and party at an available lounge or pub. "It's stress-free to hit a bar alone or with girlfriends. There are no watchful eyes that silently tell you to count your drinks. Sometimes, it is necessary to have fun all by yourself," says Charu Kumar, project engineer of Dell.

The city's bars, lounges and pubs have a fairly huge female clientele. "Throughout the week, we have a good number of women coming with their friends for drinks. What's interesting is that they have become experimental too. They believe in trying out new drinks rather than sticking to the tried and tested ones," says MS Negi, restaurant manager, Kava.

What's more, girls are more sophisticated drinkers than guys! They believe in doing everything with panache. "Our lounge witnesses more female visitors as compared to males. But not even once a girl has lost control and messed up things. The city girls know how to drink with dignity," says Narendera Kumar, manager, The Lobby.

But not everything is as smooth as it sounds. There is still stigma attached to girls drinking. "Whenever, we go to some restaurant and ask for the bar menu, we are given those odd looks. It's embarrassing at times. People are yet to accept that girls can also drink," says Vaishali Singh, a lecturer. But does this stop girls from asking for the drinks? Well, the answer is a big no!

However, if you think that girls have started drinking in order to prove a point, then you are wrong. There is a bigger reason for the girls for shifting their interest from coffee to alcohol. "Life is stressful for a girl too. She has to cope-up with family, friends, work and relationships. Alcohol acts like a relaxant and gives them a chance to stop worrying about the world for a while and live life fully," says Harjyot Khosa, a city-based psychologist.

So, let's say cheers to that!

chatter box

Love’s in the air for Sakshi
Sakshi Tanwar
Reel love: Sakshi Tanwar

Most loved face on the television actress Sakshi Tanwar, who is known for her iconic role as Parvati bhabhi from Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, is back on the telly with yet another lead show in a Balaji show-Bade Achhe Lagte Hain. Sakshi talks about her show, character, and about love 
after marriage.

Why did you choose Bade Achhe...?

I felt instinctively that it was meant for me and moreover, I just loved the title. Bade Achhe Lagte Hain (BALH) was offered to me within four months after Kahaani ended. I really liked the subject and the character but at that time I was very sure that I wanted a sabbatical. This time when it was offered to me again, I said yes because I felt it was the right time and the right platform to reconnect with my fans. I guess, things happen when they are meant to and am glad for BALH. It is a beautiful role and I am enjoying it.

Tell us about your character in the serial?

Priya Sharma is an unmarried woman in her early thirties who believes that marriage has passed her by. Though she believes that a lonely, single life awaits her, Priya continues to be a romantic soul, who takes joy in relishing every moment of her life. She is in her own beautiful world – happy and content with life. She cares for her family, at the same time knows how to be herself. She has her own set of ideology in life which she wouldn’t give up for anyone. A very level headed woman, Priya likes to read rather than going out to party with her friends. She takes tuition to support her family, is a social activist as well, working with a reputed NGO and is comfortable with her own self. She feels that she doesn’t need anyone to complete her life but also believes in love after marriage.

Tell us about your look and style in the show?

For the look, the credit goes to my make-up and hair person, Sharad and Tejaswini. For the styling, the creative team of Balaji should be thanked as they have done a fabulous job to make me look like Priya Sharma. What you see in the promos is the post-marriage look. For the pre-marriage look, Ekta wanted the character to be simple but attractive.

How is it working with Ekta once again?

Balaji is like family, so working with them is always a pleasure. This is the first time a TV show has been written with two actors in mind. If Ekta wanted to in these two years, she could have cast anyone else for this show, and if she had, I would have respected her decision. But the fact that she waited for me for over two years for this role, shows the kind of professional rapport, understanding and mutual respect we share.

What has been the feedback to the show’s promos?

The response to the teaser and promos has been truly overwhelming and am really humbled by the positive feedback I have got. I would like to share this appreciation with everyone who was behind conceptualising and executing these lovely promos. Thanks to them, people are really looking forward to seeing Ram and me together on the show. Hope we can live up to their expectations.

What’s the best compliment you received?

These days everyone tells or messages me just this line, Bade achhe lagte hain, yeh dharti, yeh nadiya, yeh raina aur… tum!

How is working with Ram Kapoor?

Ram is a very fine and spontaneous actor. He makes the shooting atmosphere fun with his vibrant energy and enthusiasm.

Why should the audiences watch this mature love story?

Simply because it shows that 90 per cent of Indians still believe in love after marriage. It’s a beautiful story about two strangers who don’t find love but love finds them. And sometimes the best love stories happen to people when they are more mature to handle love!!!

Tina is a latecomer

Tina DuttaTina Dutta aka Ichcha of Uttaran has threatened to quit the hit show once again. This time she got angry when she was warned not to arrive late on the sets. She used to be late everyday.

Her co-actors and even the daily wage workers suffered as they never got any breaks during the shoot, she was told. An angry Tina threatened to quit the show.

time out:
Tina Dutta

Raquesh Vashisht & Ridhi DograMarital bliss for Raquesh

Television actor Raquesh Vashisht, aka Aditya from STAR Plus Maryaada, got married to Ridhi Dogra in a grand ceremony in Pune last Sunday. He feels lucky to be married to the most beautiful girl in this world, he claims. Raquesh can't believe everything happened so quickly and felt that these past few months of his life were a roller coaster.



soul mates: Raquesh Vashisht & Ridhi Dogra

Neha fights back

Kinshuk Mahajan loves playing pranks on the set of his show Chaand Chhupa Baadal Mein. His co-star Neha Sargam hid Kinshuk’s cellphone in a tissue box. He kept searching for his phone high and low but couldn't find it. He retaliated by stealing Neha’s phone. Neha had to give up on her game and both of them went home with their respective phones.

Gaurav ChopraGaurav to do a cameo

Sony’s Adaalat goes bi-weekly from June 18 and to spice up the show, the channel has decided to have popular TV actors in cameo roles. After Shveta Tiwari and Mohnish Behl, now Gaurav Chopra will enter Adaalat as a new character Vishwajeet Ranawat. He will play a lawyer who is a great friend of KD played by Ronit Roy in the show. But the two friends will have a healthy competition going on. Currently Gaurav is seen in Uttaran.








comic timing: Gaurav Chopra

astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Put more effort into completing unfinished work. Businessmen: it is advisable not to make new starts. Take care of your health. You attend a festival or workshop in personal development. Tarot message: Don’t compromise on health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43.

TAURUS: A sudden improvement in your fortune is indicated. Workmates may be aggressive. You could be easily disturbed emotionally. This is also a positive time for business partnerships and joint ventures. Study of mystical traditions appeals to you. Emotional contact with a friend could be informative. Tarot message: Be persistent in business. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47.

GEMINI: Spend less on grocery. New attractions are likely to be serious. Don’t hold back anything from your boss. Sportsmen: Focus on exercise & diet. Talk to your counsellor before confronting your partner over joint resources. Put problems aside for an evening of cheer. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44.

CANCER: A romantic and passionate attraction might lure you into dangerous waters. Women: don’t indulge in idle gossip. Keep your mind and heart in balance. A female colleague could push your buttons. Avoid getting in her path and be calm. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future. Lucky colour: Fiery Red. Magic number: 28.

LEO: Don’t speculate. Discriminate in choosing your company. Pace yourself, since your energy levels can be low. Meditate to disengage from the thoughts about the past. Try to get an early night. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 33.

VIRGO: Get all of your affairs in order. Avoid careless spending. Don’t delegate responsibility. Fix an appointment with your dentist. Problems can be resolved without any major stress. Somebody will offer you a solution. Travel to different cultures, take up studies in a subject that inspires personal and spiritual growth. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36.

LIBRA: Good day to negotiate contracts. Seek publicity for business plans. Stars favour import/export. Women: beware of deception. You may feel restricted by your family circumstances. Things will be sorted out if you are willing to be honest and face up to your own truth. Tarot message: Don’t spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54.

SCORPIO: “The Magician” smiles on health. Discuss long-term plans. A telephone call or a friend gives pleasure. Don’t drink at a party. You have a high energy level. A wealth of opportunity and ideas could keep you busy all day. Some might be busy packing for a journey. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37.

SAGITTARIUS: The Queen of Swords reveals that new love attractions are likely to be serious. Life at home is much easier. Businessmen: spend your spare time with loved ones. Tell yourself that you love yourself. If you are shopping for a gift, make sure you stick to your budget. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic Number: 56.

CAPRICORN: A day of mixed luck. Students: expect extra pocket money. Your patient stand will pay. Lovers: avoid meeting today. Any projects connected with study, travel and cultural pursuits will be very satisfying. You overcome obstacles. Be aware of your boundaries. Do your own thing. Tarot message: Don’t try to end all the deadlocks in one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

AQUARIUS: You may find the day quite tiring. Businessmen: avoid making any important business move. A new romance is on the offing. Don’t rely on anyone else. Legal matters could take an expected turn and surprise you with a positive twist. Tarot message: Don’t let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28.

PISCES: Don’t speculate. A relative may behave unpredictably. Set your priorities. Balance between work and pleasure. Take some time out for yourself. Just enjoy food, company and your environment for a while. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and don’t trust others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 32.

the year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 2...

Control your finances this year. You may experience some difficulty in repaying loans. Friendship: Friends will be cooperative in financial, career, personal or romantic situations. Health may suffer in December due to stress. Take care of the upper portion of your body. Love: Secret affairs may leak out this year. Be cautious. Travel will be frequent. Compatible signs: Cancer and Leo. Lucky colours: Yellow and green. Lucky days: Your lucky days will be Tuesday and Saturday. Property matters: Best time to exchange property or renovate an old house or purchase or invest in real estate to multiply the wealth is September. Plan now. Vehicle: You buy that dream vehicle you have been eyeing for a long time. Business: Good luck on the professional front. You have a white and indigo aura. Analyse mistakes of 2010 so as not to repeat them in 2011-12.

Sonakshi SinhaSonakshi Sinha (June 2, 1987, Mumbai) daughter of Shatrughan Sinha, sister of Luv and Kussh Sinha and daughter of Poonam Sinha shares the birthday with you. Sonakshi began her career as a model and walked the ramp at the Lakme Fashion week in 2008 and 2009.

Sonakshi made her debut in Dabangg with Salman Khan. She is ruled by number 2 and 6. Both numbers are important for the film industry. The coming decade belongs to Sonakshi. Her upcoming movies Race 2 and Rowdy Rathore will establish her further as an actor to reckon with. 

beat it
Dj KK
Dj KK’s song of the day
Dj KK’s song of the day

Song - Where Is the Love

Artist DGB ft Dawnsey

Genre - House

The girl singing in the background is just flawless and amazing. She sings in such a beautiful way and moreover the bass line gives a perfect feeling of a clubhouse. On the whole, a quality track. (As told to Manpriya Khurana)

Vanity case

Make-up is something women swear by before stepping out. It makes them look better and gives them confidence. But actresses are the ones who cannot live without make up. But now-a-days, the Bollywood hotties avoid using make-up or apply minimal make up. They have great skin so why not flaunt it. But they too succumb to vanity. We give you a peak into their magic kit.

Katrina Kaif

I am not a make-up person at all. I love myself the way I am. And thankfully in my next film I don't have to apply any make up. But when I am shooting I have to apply it or else I prefer to stay away from any embellishments. But yes, I always keep bare essentials, such as lip balm, at hand. I don't use a heavy hand while doing makeup but I do pay a little more attention to my eyes when it's a big night. Doing up your eyes well makes you look fresh and alive

Shraddha Kapoor

I am a make-up person, especially when I am going out for a party or an event. I love to colour myself in different shades. I like colourful eye pencils and different shades of eye-shadow. So, I would say, I am more into eye make-up. I apply some light shaded lip gloss to go with my make-up. But I feel comfortable in my own skin.

Dia Mirza

I can't leave home without looking perfect. I am in a profession where looks matter a lot. But I don't leave home without applying sunscreen. My face stays protected up to eight hours. And, if I have to go for a party I apply a light layer of foundation. I enhance my eyes with eyeliner, curl the lashes and end it with a brush of mascara.

Rani Mukherji

I love to tone up and do my make- up. I think I have big eyes so I highlight it with mascara and eyeliner. I love to apply kajal and if I leave home without kajal, people think I am unwell as I have puffy eyes. Not to forget some strawberry flavoured lip balm, that's a must.



Kareena Kapoor

I am not a make-up person. Even when I leave my house, I am always without make-up or be it the shoot. If I have to go out for a party, I simply wash my face, apply some lip-gloss and some mascara. I concentrate more on my outfit while for my hair I can do what I like. So, I am a mascara person.

Priyanka Chopra

For me beauty comes from inside. But before applying make-up cleansing, toning and moisturising are very important. For me eyeliner and blush lipstick are a must. And more than make-up I like to wear a sexy dress and do the make-up according to my dress.



The Good Mother

Actress Julianna Margulies has admitted that she was secretly 'thrilled' on being offered a movie role as a 'lesbian porn star', but turned it down for the sake of her young child. "I love the role I play, and I work 10 months out of the year, so the 10 weeks I have off — it's just not worth it to me to do another project. There have been some interesting offers this year because I said, "Well, if I do anything, it should be really opposite of what I do' — and I got offered a porn movie," she said.

The Good Wife star got the script for the movie after admitting she'd love to take on a job completely different from the hit legal drama. However, she didn't expect to be asked to play such a raunchy role.

Margulies, 44, acknowledged that the movie wasn't exactly porn, but the character she was offered was too risqué for her liking.

"It's not a porn. James Franco is doing it and attracting all these people. But I was like, ultimately: "I'm a lesbian porn star going down on women? I can't. I have a child. It wasn't that I was insulted by it. I was actually thrilled by it," she explained. — ANI

Hats off, Bips

Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu loves experimenting with her looks and now she has found her latest obsession in hats and red lipsticks. "Hats and red lipstick are my new obsession for summer look! (sic)," Bipasha posted on micro-blogging site Twitter. The 32-year-old, who recently admitted that she has parted ways with long-time beau, John Abraham, is now back in India after wrapping up the shooting for Abbas-Mustan's Players in Russia.

High on music

Sophie Choudry doesn't resort to toxic substances like drugs and smoking to get a high, she rather feels intoxicated by music and dance. "I'm also anti-drugs and not much of a drinker! Sounds boring but I get my highs from healthier alternatives; music, dance, and...more? What gets u high?" Sophie posted on her Twitter page on the World No Tobacco Day. Sophie is a trained singer and dancer.

Net loss

Akon's song Chhammak Chhallo from Ra.One has been leaked on the Internet. It created a rage when it was discovered recently. The song is very catchy and we can only imagine the hysteria it will create in clubs and everywhere else. Kareena Kapoor features in the item song. The music of Murder 2 and the first look poster has also been leaked on the Net. This is shocking because the film is still in the process of completion. On the bright side, it just might create extra buzz for the film. Double Dhamaal and Delhi Belly's music is also out on the Net.

New film

Kajol might star in Yash Chopra's next directorial feature. The film stars Shah Rukh Khan. Katrina was supposed to be part of it but Kajol doesn't do two-heroine films. AR Rahman will score music for this film. This will be Kajol and SRK's second film with YRF post DDLJ.

Once upon… in Pakistan

Ekta Kapoor and Milan Luthria want to film certain scenes of the sequel to Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai in Pakistan. The film is based on the life of Dawood Ibrahim who is supposedly based in Karachi. Akshay Kumar is playing the lead. Kapoor and Luthria only have security concerns about shooting there. —Agencies

Akshay Kumar With Shreyas, it’s housefull

Shreyas Talpade has joined the crazy and varied cast of Sajid Khan's Housefull 2. He has replaced Rahul Khanna in the film. Khanna had date issues. The film has an 18-member strong cast, including Akshay Kumar, Asin, Jacqueline, Zarine, Riteish, Mithun Chakraborty.






On the house: Akshay Kumar

Sound of Music
Vasudha Gupta

It was 10 years ago that the song Thai lakh di was released and took the song and dance routine of Punjab to another level. For Karran Jesbir, the song was his first and helped him make his mark in the Punjabi music industry.

He is back, this time to interact with the youth and get a live response from their end. Karran now has tied up with Raja Baath, an upcoming singer, for a starry night in Score-8.

Dressed in a pair of casual jeans and a red shirt, Karran is upbeat about his upcoming music album—Zanjeer. "The music is by Honey Singh and should hit the market by mid-November," he says.

Raja is still high on the popularity of his last album The Crown which featured the hit number Chaska. Ready with his new album, dedicated to the youth of Punjab, Raja feels that it is important to give the youth something different with every album.

With formal training in music under Mrinal Singh Gupta and Prabhjot Bali, Karran has done shows throughout Punjab and thinks it's only with senior singers that one can evolve.

Catering to the younger generation, the duo feels that youth is receptive. "When you start playing a song, you can figure out immediately if or not your song is clicking," Karran shares.

Focusing on what makes Punjabi music so popular in Bollywood, Karran says, "The success of a movie rests on overseas collections. Since most of the NRI community is from Punjab, producers know that if there is a Punjabi number, the movie will catch the NRI pulse." Also, coming up with a devotional album, Karran says that it is his way of expressing his gratitude to God and showcasing his versatility as a singer.

With music downloading becoming a fad, Karran feels that piracy is the biggest threat to the Punjabi music industry. He suggests that it not only the singers but also the government which should take responsibility to tackle piracy.

Talking about the popularity of Punjabi folk culture, the duo say, "The rhythm and the beat of Punjabi music is such that it forces you to dance. So, just enjoy our music and say no to piracy."

Vasudha@tribunmail.com

celeb point
Emulating Big B

My inspiration to be in films was always Mr Amitabh Bachchan. As a child I used to tear off ma's dupattas and sarees and tie them around my head and stand in front of the mirror and dance to the tune of Khaike paan banaaraswalla.

The first time, I ever got a chance to be on stage was when I was five and the teacher asked, "Who knows how to dance like Amitabh Bachchan?" I stood on the bench and raised my hands fearing she wouldn't see me otherwise. I was selected and the applause that I received reiterated my belief in my dream — I wanted to be like Amitabh Bachchan.

The first time I shot with Mr Bachchan was in Baghbaan. In my first day of shooting with him, I had to scold him for breaking his specs. Trust me, scolding him was neither in my wish list, nor the easiest thing to do!

He met me warmly and said he was looking forward to shoot with me. I got more nervous as I saw him reading his lines and getting into the mood. The larger than life persona suddenly was giving way to being a vulnerable man. I just couldn't take my eyes off him. What zest! What dedication to be in the role. I had to say my lines and though I knew we were only acting, I was hating myself for being so harsh to him. But you 'gotta' do what you 'gotta' do. As I was saying those harsh lines, his vulnerable expressions killed me inside. The shot was great but I went into a depression. Suddenly a hand tapped on my shoulder -- it was Mr Bachchan! I was not prepared for that and I stood up. He said, "No heroine had ever scolded me like that… arey koi meri hockey stick laao, I will give it back to her!"and the entire unit burst out laughing. That laughter eased me and I looked at Amitji…he said, "Well done girl!" He had noticed how miserable I was and in a jovial way he had gotten me out of it without making it apparent.

From that day, my respect and admiration for him increased ten fold--being sensitive to a newcomer, being the best co-actor and bringing the best out of me--I was all smiles shooting with my favourite actor who I always wanted to be. Never mind ma's torn dupattas…

(Dutta is a well-known Bollywood actress.)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Speak your truth
Simmi Waraich

I am 24 years old. I got involved with a man who is around 30 years old. I am doing my MBA. He is dominating, he goes through my phone records, does not allow me to go out anywhere. When I discuss marriage with him, he puts it off and if I say I will not meet him again, threatens to inform my aunt with whom I live with. I want to get out of this.

Anu, Chandigarh

At times we get into relationships where the other person is controlling. Remember, you have a right to live the way you wish to, meet who you wish to. You may need help to get out of this as you may need some assertiveness, training and some anti-anxiety medication. Stay with friends and discuss it with them. If he tries to pressurise you talk to a friend about what to do, then try it out. Praise yourself for small changes. Ask yourself what is the worst that would happen if he tells your aunt? She will scold you and tell your parents. It's okay. That's a part of life- We are all human and can make mistakes. Just tell yourself that you believe in yourself and cut off all communication with him after telling him why.

I am a 28 years old doctor. I have always felt lonely. Since my school days I have had this inferiority complex that I am not good looking. I never had a girl friend. I am just 5'5'' tall. After MBBS I began preparing for IAS exams during which I made friends with a girl I liked. She turned down my proposal indirectly. We kept talking but now she is getting married which hurts. I am frustrated and depressed. I left my preparations too. I am alone and feel like ending my life.

Vikas, Chandigarh

While growing up we form a belief system. At times that belief system can be highly pessimistic. We may tend to magnify our problems and minimise our strengths and similarly minimise others problems and maximise their strong points. Self-esteem comes from many factors. If we feel good about ourselves, solely based on our looks or on other's appreciation of us, it will be difficult to be happy. Suppose for instance that a good looking friend of yours has an accident and his face is disfigured. Should he then start feeling he is not worthwhile?

First, get an evaluation and start an anti-depressant (which are safe these days and have minimal side effects) as having suicidal thoughts is a definite sign of danger. Also lack of concentration etc all point to need for medicines.

Talk to yourself like you would to a friend. Self worth comes from belief in oneself. If the girl had reciprocated your feelings it would be good but if she did not, that is fine too. That can happen to anyone. Talk to friends and family. Start with noting what you do have and your high points- having a stable family, passing MBBS, being an honest person etc. Do something for someone else daily like helping someone.

Get up and do 10 sit ups, do standing jogging to a count of 100 and then lie down on the bed and slowly relax your muscles starting from your toes, slowly up your calves, legs, back, neck, face arms and hands. Take 5 deep breaths and feel the breaths go to all the constriction in your body and relax them, healing you. Feel the calmness within. How did you feel? For some time, you feel relaxed. It is within you - learn to accept negative feelings as part of life-do this exercise and learn to let them go. Accept and Let go.

(Dr Waraich is a Chandigarh-based consultant psychiatrist. Shoot your problems to lifestyletribune@gmail.com or write to Troubleshooter, Life+Style, The Tribune, Sector 29, Chandigarh)

master chef
Hot and sweet
Ashish Bali

When we say Chinese, we usually mean noodles and Manchurian as the main course. Besides this honey chilli potato is gaining popularity as a snack. This week we have executive chef, Ashish Bali from Hometel, sharing this recipe with you.

Honey chilli potato

Ingredients

For The Batter

4 tbsp plain flour 04 tbsp corn flour

2 tsp ginger-garlic paste

Salt to taste

For the sauce

4 tbsp honey

2 tsp chili sauce

4 tbsp tomato sauce

salt to taste

Ingredients

4 no potatoes, cut into fingers

Method

For the batter

combine the plain flour, ginger-garlic paste, baking powder salt and water to make a thick batter. Keep aside. How to proceed

  • Dip the potatoes in the prepared batter and deep-fry it till it turns golden brown. Place on absorbent paper. Keep aside.
  • Heat the oil in a pan, add the honey sauce and fried potatoes mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Garnish with 

sesame seeds.

  • Serve hot.

Plus size
Women who shed weight look friendly to males

Women who lose weight seem to entice men more easily than their peers who have always stayed slim, a study says.

However, men see heavier women in a positive light, as being more friendly, approachable and emotionally stable than the thin ones.

Women, perhaps annoyed by the extra competition, view former overweight girls in a negative light, and see them as undisciplined, emotionally unstable and even unhygienic.

The findings emerged from a study by a team at the University of Liverpool led by Jason Halford.

Halford presented 106 young men and 96 women with a picture of a young attractive female accompanied by a short biography.

They were all identical, except for the past history of weight control.

Roughly half the biographies showed the pictured woman had maintained the same weight all her life, while others said she used to weigh 16 stones and had a dress size of 24.

—IANS





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