Indi-genius Indian
Delhi is boring, while Mumbai is too fast, Apache Indian would like to settle in Chandigarh instead
Ashima Sehajpal

If there is one thing that still keeps the very successful Apache Indian going, it is his ambition to settle back in India along with his family. UK, he says can never be his country and India has always been. The revelation hasn’t come all of a sudden.

It has seeped in with every racial comment he has heard, with every racial gesture that his three children have encountered, and with each day, when he realised that Asians are not welcome. Even twelve years back, when he came out with his first single, Movie Over India, he was this bitter about racism, which now he says has gone worse, “We, Anglo Indians face the after effects of India becoming a super power. People in the West hate the fact that India never faced recession. With all the jobs coming to India, they get even more insecure, and we have to bear the brunt of India shining.”

So, he now has shifting his base permanently to India on his mind and Chandigarh is the preferred city. “Mumbai is too fast and Delhi is boring. I like this city for its energy,” says Apache, who was in Chandigarh to perform at Tao. He also has plans to open a bar in the city on the lines of Apache Bar that he has in London. “My bar has a different concept. It’s not just meant to dance and drink. It’s in fact a platform where Asians gather in the evening to discuss various social issues.” He also hosts a TV show, Real Talk in his bar. Since, India also has its own issues to deal with, he feels the bar would help in some way. “The first issue that I would like to debate on in India is corruption.”

He then shifts the focus on his next area of concern, music. Thought he hasn’t introduced many changes in Reggae music, he feels that the music form has evolved. “I now prefer singing fusion to appeal to a larger audience.” His next solo album, Music Is Freedom will soon hit the market. The songs are based on contemporary issues like racism and arranged marriage. “With divorce rates on a rise, it’s important to guide youngsters as to what qualities they should look for in their life partner.” He sure has the knowledge for he is going stable in his relationship, which began during his school time. He is also supporting a hip-hop group in India called, Bombay Basement. The band supports aspiring singers and musicians. “The band members are open to work on any music form, though primarily they are rappers.”

Just as much his fans have been inquisitive about his music form, they have also been about his dreadlocks. Apache shares his story, “Several men start getting bald with age, so till the time, I am lucky, I am enjoying my long locks.” He adds that the inspiration to have them comes from saints in India and people of Jamaica. “They define my personality. People know me for my music and dreadlocks.” And just before signing off, he again makes it a point to say, “Very soon, you will see me roaming around in Chandigarh.” Can’t wait!

Mistress of spice
Jasmine Singh

Often on television, we see a pretty girl tossing salad in a swanky kitchen in various cookery shows, thanks to the likes of sultry Padma Lakshmi. But this doesn’t take away the fact that our mommies and grand mommies as well as mommy-in-laws still tag it as the highest form of art.

“So it is,” nods Suchint, celebrity chef with Peddlers who would be whipping exciting Mexican dish Churos. A girl chef, Suchint, a Masters in culinary from Holmes, Melbourne- Australia, agrees that the face of cooking has changed, but it is still an art. “As Walter Savage Landor said a good cook is the peculiar gift of the gods. He must be a perfect creature from the brain to the palate, from the palate to the finger’s end. Cooking is an art, which is now enhanced by various techniques,” shares the girl who is also of the opinion that it is not easy to convince people to order something from the menu that they have not tried before. “No matter what, North Indians would go in for butter chicken and daal. The challenge as a chef is to give them dishes that they would be open to try and come back for.”

Suchint specialises in Italian and continental cooking and has worked for the Radisson Group of hotels in London as well. Not many girl chefs in the city, she shrugs her shoulders and smiles, “I am here and I assure that at Peddlers and Big Ben I would provide the best of Mexican food,” she adds confidently. She doesn’t conform to a particular style of cooking. “To me cooking is a passion, a stress buster, a way of life. I would of course want to make the best of it. This does not mean I follow a style, mix and match, throw in the ingredients, which would give that touch is all I do.”

Taming a Tornado

Eating little is the key to longevity, according to 100-year-old Fauja Singh, a world record holder in marathon in his age bracket. Eighty-nine, when he ran his first marathon, Fauja Singh starts his day with one alsi pinni that he’s is especially fond of. Turbaned Tornado - The Oldest Marathon Runner Fauja Singh published by Rupa & Company is an interesting biography of this Sikh settled in England.

Penned by the three-book old Khushwant Singh, this one was named after his famous namesake by his grandfather. “It’s true that it’s legendary Khushwant Singh who inspired me to write but each of my book is my own journey and is not to piggy back his name,” he says.

“Fauja Singh turned 100 this April, and the book is the account of his motivating life,” shares Singh. Not only this author flew to England to observe his subject’s life more keenly but also visited his native Bias Pind village in Jalandhar and gathered noted form those who remembered it. “It was not just one visit or two but many and many human hours that it was fascinating to see almost illiterate Fauja spend his day in a different country than his birth. What’s more interesting is his shoe fetish,” shares Singh. Fauja loves designer shoes and still calls the long toe ones gurgabis, we are told.

His earlier books Sikhs Unlimited and Mending Souls also chartered journeys of successful Sikhs. “I want to keep my date with my state and bring out inspiring stories,” says the author who’s settled is district Hoshiarpur. His next? A fiction based in Punjab!

mona@tribuenmail.com

Feathery mane

For the first time in 40 years, Philip Greenlee cannot get the choice feathers he ties into fishing lures to tempt trout from the blue-ribbon streams in the western United States. A new nationwide trend of attaching feathers to hair, known as feather extensions, has spurred a run on the decorative plumage of designer roosters produced at just three farms in the country.

Until this year, the long, skinny and spine-free feathers were the almost exclusive province of fly-fishing devotees. Now the multibillion-dollar beauty industry is hawking feather extensions, triggering a shopping frenzy that has pitted fishers against fashionistas.

Hair stylists are snapping up feathers at a rate that has exhausted stocks at fly fishing shops at the peak of trout fishing season from the Rockies to the Appalachians.

In the laid-back and historically genteel culture of fly fishing, throngs of feather-seeking, cash-flashing hairdressers are causing consternation.

“We’ve got these blond gals attaching feathers to their hair, we’ve got people from California and Colorado calling us; it’s like we’re sitting on a pot of gold,” Duane Schreiner, owner of Bighorn Fly and Tackle in Montana, said.

Since January, demand for the specialty feathers - a fad fanned by the stars of TV series such as American Idol and Glee sporting the extensions - has left anglers high and dry even as it has boosted profits for farmers who raise the fowl.

Prices for some packages of the distinctive feathers, known as hackles, have soared from $60 to $400 as supplies have dwindled for a product that takes roosters one year to grow. A hackle of black and white stripes, or grizzly, is most sought after by both the beauty and sporting goods industries. Salon operators say clients prefer the striking pattern, which

is also prized by anglers for its buoyancy and resemblance to insect wings. Greenlee, president of the Federation of Fly Fishers, an international nonprofit in the state of Montana, said the craze threatens the time-honored tradition of crafting lures, or fly tying.

The lures, or flies, rely on feathers perfected over decades of selective breeding, imitating mayflies and other aquatic insects favored by cold water fish. Feather extensions, which can hold up for weeks amid

routine washing and styling, range from $8 to $15 per feather. Hana Johnson, president of Hair Flairs, a Florida company that distributes feathers and other beauty products to salons in the United States and Canada, said she has sold a million feathers so far this year. That compares to 3,000 in 2010. “We’ve been spinning our little feather wheels like hamsters since day one,” she said. Hair Flairs has already bought the bulk of feathers that will be produced in 2012 by Bill Keough at Keough Hackles in southwest Michigan. He is as surprised as anyone to have started head of a hairstyling movement. — Reuters

SRK gets help to kick the butt

An NGO has sent a set of nicotine replacement therapy (NRTs) patches to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan to help him quit smoking. HRIDAY (Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth) said it has also sent a factsheet on tobacco cessation after the actor, in a recent media interview, expressed his willingness to quit smoking.

“We have sent him a letter along with the patches and a factsheet,” the group’s communications officer said Nikunj Sharma.

Monika Arora, the senior director of the organization, in the letter sent Thursday said if Shah Rukh takes this step, it will help convey the right health message to millions of his fans in India and world over, especially the youth.

“His decision to quit smoking will set an example that smoking is hazardous for health and that quitting is possible no matter how long you have been smoking, said Amit Yadav of the NGO.

“Shah Rukh is a versatile actor and we are hopeful that this time he would succeed in his effort to quit smoking and thus motivate others.”

“We hope that he also inspires the film fraternity to refrain from showing tobacco use in films which has an adverse impact on youth and prove to be a ‘real hero’ for all his fans,” Yadav added. — IANS

Javed Akhtar speaks up for royalty

HARD TALK: Javed Akhtar At the World Copyright Summit in Brussels, Indian composer Javed Akhtar was interviewed by fellow composer and PRS For Music board member Simon Darlow about his career in India and the potential amendments to copyright law which will see royalties flow back to songwriters, composers, and authors. The interview was originally published in France and was very well received.

Javed Akhtar, from a family of creators which goes back seven generations, took it upon himself to launch the fight for authors and composers rights in India. Facing a lot of opposition, he sent several letters to political representatives, ministers and MPs and got several supporters such as Ravi Shankar, to spread his message about the lack of royalties for composers and songwriters in India. He accused the local collection society IPRS of using the rights of authors and composers for the benefit of studios and cinemas and producers.

Despite a 30-year career as an artist he said he "knew nothing about authors' rights" and that performance or mechanical rights were not mentioned in his contracts. "But my troubles really started when I applied for a position as a member of the board of the IPRS," he said. "I understood that it was urgent to convince the government to amend the law so that they protect the authors and to make sure that it is properly implemented."

Invited by the CISAC to tell his story, he addressed the attendees and said, "Thank you for your support. By doing so you have helped to change perceptions in India and have ensured that proper, due rights will be recognised in my country."

Javed's interview was very well received indeed. Guy Fletcher, chairman of PRS For Music (the UK collection society) said: "India is one of the most populous nations in the world and its copyright administration has remained a mystery to us for decades. Javed elaborated on the subject at the CISAC Summit, enabling us to understand the injustices all Indian creators have been suffering.

A walk in the rain!
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

The first pre-monsoon showers have just begun and everyone's already worried about how to brave the muck in their footwear. If you love to get drenched in the rain, then this is the perfect time to step out and romance the rain in trendiest monsoon footwear.

Though many crib to walk on rainy days, a research shows that most women wear worn out or old fashion footwear during monsoon due to fear of spoiling their trendy footwear. But we say, ladies do not worry and hit the streets in style and have fun.

Slip-ons

"Rubber mules and slippers in bright shades are a hot pick this season," says an employee of Puma. Though bright shades are in this season, it's the colours like hot pink, navy blue, red and orange are making feet happy.

Brands like Puma, Converse and Tommy Hilfiger have the funkiest slippers to combat boring footwear.

Flo(a)t fun

Floaters are a hot pick during monsoons and it's the college students who bank on it the most. Though the designs are usually the same (year-after-year), but they are definitely the best bet during monsoon. Bright coloured 'floaters,' specially made for monsoon are a rage among college students. Brands like Reebok, Nike and Adidas have the best floaters to invest on, although the price tag is a little high for the use of just few days. They are available from Rs 1,200 onwards.

Croc-croc

If you are a flip-flop fanatic, go for Crocs. They are ideal for the rains and come in fabulous colours. Usually made of rubber they dry easily and pretty comfortable in the rain. Shoe Tree in Sector 17 has a good variety of crocs for infants as well as adults and teenagers. The range starts from Rs 1,000 onwards.

Plastic full of fun

High heels have bid adieu from the fashion stores and flat shoes have conquered the heart of monsoon trend setters. They are just as sexy and fashionable as high-heel boots and are the best to protect feet from rainy weather. They are waterproof and are usually made from either rubber or other equivalents.

Bata has a good range of monsoon footwear. Comprising closed shoes, sandals, peep-toes and slip-ons they are available in colours such as pink, purple, blue, gold, black, brown and silver. The price range starts at Rs 299 onwards.

In the end we would say, step out and have a splash!

GET PHYSICAL
The fastest loser
Anil Juneja

What if you want to lose weight faster and not as per the regular two pounds per week norm? If you train while watching calories, then shouldn't you be able to lose more fat without losing muscle or damaging your health? How does one explain the fast weight loss on shows like The Biggest Loser?

These are questions I've been asked many times, especially with the diet bazaar flooded with rapid weight loss claims. Here are answers to 1 kg per week rule and what it really takes to burn more than that per week.

Why a kilo per week: A kilo is not the maximum amount you can safely lose in a week. It's a general health recommendation, a realistic goal based on average results. The actual amount of fat loss depends on many factors. It can be relative to body size ie, the more body fat, more the loss. Therefore, we could individualise our weekly guideline a bit by recommending a goal of .5kg-1 kg of fat per week or up to 1 per cent of your total weight, if you weighed 150 kg that would be 1.5 kg per week.

Body weight Vs composition: Weight loss is meaningless unless you talk about body composition; the fat to muscle ratio, and water weight. A wrestler on fast weight loss might tell you he lost 5 kg overnight by sweating it off. People go on extreme induction program or a lemon juice and water fast for the first week and drop kilos. But then, the weight was water and lean tissue and people put the weight right back on. The advantage of any type of induction period for rapid weight loss in the first week is that a large drop on the scale is a motivational boost.

For fast fat loss: Less food or harder training: Trainers are now coming up with high intensity workouts that burn a large amount of calories and give the metabolism a kick. It helps speed up the fat loss within a given amount of time. But one has to be on guard in higher intensity workouts, to overtrain or overuse injuries. That's why strict nutrition with an aggressive calorie deficit is a major part of any fast fat loss strategy. For long term weight control, one has to lose weight slowly and follow a nutrition plan that is well balanced between lean protein, healthy fats and natural carbs.

Just math: A high protein, reduced carb approach with weights and cardio can help maximize fat loss - both in terms of increasing speed of fat loss getting rid of stubborn fat. The faster fat loss occurs primarily as a result of the larger calorie deficit (which is easily achieved with sugars and starches minimised), not some type of "low carb magic." If your diet was high in natural carbs but you were able to diligently maintain the same large calorie deficit, the results would be similar. There is no magic in faster fat loss, just math. All the new-fangled dietary manipulations and high intensity training programs that really do help increase the speed of fat loss all come full circle to the calorie balance equation in the end. Fast fat loss is possible but only if you are ready to tolerate the hunger, low calories and high exercise. 1/2kg to 1 kg loss per week is 25-50 kgs in a year. Personally, quick fixes are the worst.

Just train hard and eat well. Till then, stay fit

(The writer is a fitness consultant with Bodyzone Fitness 'n' Spa. Mail him at fitnessarchitects@yahoo.co.in)

Now pop a pill to look young forever

A leading scientist has announced that a 'forever young' drug that allows people to grow old gracefully could be available in just ten years. Professor Linda Partridge, an expert in the genetics of ageing of University College London, said that science is moving so quickly that it will soon be possible to prevent many of the ills of old age, reports the Daily Mail.

By taking a pill a day from middle-age, we will grow old free from illnesses of the body and mind such as Alzheimer's and heart disease.

Some research even suggests skin and hair will retain its youthful lustre."I would be surprised if there weren't things within ten years. If told you could take a drug that has minimal side-effects and that's going to keep you healthy for another five or ten years and then you'll drop off your perch without disability, ," Partridge told the Cheltenham Science Festi. — ANI

For your curves only!

For the first time ever, designers have created bikinis called the 'N12 bikini' made from 3-D printers which could adapt to fit every woman's curves perfectly. The world's first 3-D printed two-piece is made of small nylon discs that are held together by thread-like springs.

Shapeways used their 3-D printing technology to create the material for the designers and called it Nylon 12, which is "ideal swimsuit material as it is innately waterproof", and this is where the custom fit 3-D bikinis got its name from.

"Thousands of circular plates are connected by thin strings, creating a wholly new material that holds its form as well as being flexible," say the designers Jenna Fizel and Mary Haung of Continuum Fashion as saying.

"The layout of the circle pattern was achieved through custom written code that lays out the circles according to the curvature of the surface. So the aesthetic design is completely derived from the structural design," they added. — ANI

First child a woman’s favourite memory

You might think of your first kiss as a life-changing moment, but your perception may change after having your first child. A new British survey has found that having a first child topped the list for women's most memorable experiences while the first kiss came in seventh.

In the study, over 2,000 people across the UK were asked to rate their top 15 firsts, from getting drunk to having a mid life crisis, and reveal the age at which the event occurred.

For men, the most momentous occasion was getting married, according to the poll.

It confirmed teenage years as the most challenging period, while people seem to be happiest in their twenties.

Late teenage years were highlighted as the most difficult, with the majority of the British public losing their virginity at 18, then suffering their first heartbreak at 20, as well as leaving home.

However by 54, after suffering a mid-life crisis, things seem to get better as the first grandchild arrives greeted by retirement. The poll was conducted to mark the release of virtual-life computer game The Sims 3: Generations. — ANI

stress buster
Live for the moment
Renee Singh

"Coffee at Barista," one friend tells another. "Ya! Love to but I have this splitting headache! I wonder if I should have the coffee?" "Oh! C'mon it'll be fine" "No I think I need to take a pill, but mostly even with the pills it doesn't seem to work.

Actually I think I have this headache persistently due to stress, I am so full of life's problems that I really don't seem to know how to deal with them." "OK lets have a nimbu pani at home and talk about it then".

How many of us are going through similar situation and remember we have no one to blame but ourselves. Headache is one of the most common symptoms of stress. But recognising a problem is one thing and doing something about it is another.

There is no single magical solution of course. What works for are person need not necessarily work for the other but there are some tried and tested techniques that provide a definite relief to the problem and make you feel better.

Initially a lot of us don't want to believe they can work and keep on relying heavily on medication, but once you step out of your rigid zone onto expanded thinking and try some of these tools and you will be pleasantly surprised.

C'mon spending quality time on yourself is your birthright and you must reach out and accept it.

Tension headaches are a good indication of stress. They are usually caused by sustained contraction of the scalp, face and neck muscles, resulting in a painful throbbing affecting any part of the head.

  • Rest
  • Refreshment
  • Recreation
  • Chilling out
  • Switching off
  • Hanging loose

These are all words associated with relaxation.

Relaxation basically involves giving yourself time and space to recover physically and mentally from situations that cause stress and anxiety. Even five minutes of relaxation each day makes a total difference on how you feel and behave.

Do something you enjoy

  • Take part in a sport.
  • Learn a musical instrument
  • Play with kids

Do absolutely nothing at all this will give you time to recuperate.

Try these quick fix methods

  • Live for the day
  • Give five minutes of thought time only to yourself.
  • Sit calmly and visualise a beautiful scenario
  • Listen to some new age music while dressing up or go out.
  • Go and shop just for the pleasure of shopping.
  • Watch your favourite TV show for half an hour or one hour is enough
  • Exercise a bit
  • Eat your favourite food for one meal. For once just chill and don't worry about the calories
  • Spend the evening with a friend. Go to the movies if you like.

Do this routine at least once every 15 days and feel yourself rejuvenated.

You are actually stress-free.

(Singh is a Chandigarh-based psychotherapist)

MASTER CHEF
Smoky delight
Pallav Singhal

Bhatti Kabab

Cooked on a bed of live coals to give it a smoky flavour this dish comes from Punjab. This kebab is not overly spiced but gives a pleasant sensation to your pallet by the subtle use of aromatic spices.

The advantage of cooking on open bhatti is that it seals the juices, retains the flavour and gives the right kind of crispness to the chicken legs.

This dish was specially created by the Executive Chef of JW Marriott Chandigarh, Chef Pallav Singhal for the Indian specialty restaurant of the hotel.

Recipe

Garlic paste-30 gram

Ginger paste- 30 gram

Chicken leg - 1,500 gram

Chilli paste- 50 gram

Nutmeg- 10 gram

Star anis- 10 gram

Coriander whole- 40 gram

Juice lemon- 300 ml

Sunflower oil- 700 ml

Onion rings sprinkled with deghi mirch and lemon wedges for accompaniment.

Method

Masala to marinate

Dry roast the whole coriander and make it into a powder. Combine all the other spices and mix with the coriander powder.

Marinade

Marinate the chicken leg with lemon juice, sunflower oil and ginger garlic paste for about 15 minutes. Now add the dry spices to the marinated chicken, leave it aside for an hour so that the spices get soaked in by the chicken legs.

Grill

Skewer the marinated chicken legs and place them on a medium hot bhatti for about 10-15 minutes. Keep turning and basting it with oil from time to time.

Presentation

Take out the grilled Kababs on a serving platter, accompanied by onion rings and lemon wedges, (don't forget the mint chutney).

First cut: Prakash Jha on Aarakshan

Big Brother: Amitabh Bachchan Acclaimed and award winning producer, writer, and director Prakash Jha shot a serious and heavy film like Aarakshan in a matter of months. The film went on the floors only in February and will release in August. That, in itself, is a record.

What is remarkable about his films is that they are commercial, issue-based, and distinctly desi. The director of hard-hitting films such as Gangaajal and Apharan refuses to follow trends and make a Westernised film. The veteran filmmaker talks, with fondness, about his film and his cast and crew members.

Amitabh Bachchan

I loved working with Amitabh Bachchan. I learnt something new from him every day, it was fun, and he is a very inspiring person. I am very grateful to him. I called him Bade Bhaiyya and he has become my bade bhaiyya now.

Prateik Babber

I loved Prateik's enthusiasm while working on this movie. He worked very hard. He would come to me after every shot and ask me if I wanted another shot because he was willing to do it.

Prasoon Joshi

After a long time, I wanted songs in my movie which would be appealing not only as songs but also take the movie forward. I finally got the opportunity to work with Prasoon Joshi. He gave me the lyrics and the entwined messages I needed. Every line that he has written on caste segregation captures the soul and solutions suggested of the film. He has written some beautiful lines on the kua or well which is a symbol of caste segregation. He has written than the well should be made into a flowing river.

Couple of reservations

Aarakshan is a film about reservation and corruption. It shows how the education system has been commercialised and made inaccessible to the majority of people. Nobody learns pure science anymore. Teachers don't teach properly in classes and send students to coaching classes where they teach because they are well-paid. The coaching classes have become an industry with a turnover of INR 40,000-50,000 crore. We have shown how people are discriminated against and how education, when commercialized, creates a ground or basis for discrimination. One of our characters, that of Amitabh Bachchan, is disturbed by this and he decides to teach people for free.

India versus India

The tagline of the film is "India versus India." On one side, we have India Shining that is getting richer and richer. The other side, we have interior and rural India where people still have to fight for their identity and place in society. It shows the contrast in the country.

Ram Sampath: DK Bose is an old joke!

Sing a song: Ram Sampathy Ram Sampath is in the news for the right reasons this time. Three years ago, he sued Rakesh and Rajesh Roshan for ripping off his Sony Ericsson jingle in Krazzy 4. He composed the background score in a few films and made his Bollywood album debut with the catchy and contemporary music of Luv Ka The End.

Now, he has his moment of glory. He has composed music for Delhi Belly and sung Bhaag DK Bose. The song is a rage and the musician is delighted. He talks about Aamir Khan, Delhi Belly, his musical journey, and aspirations.

Musician

I'm of the belief that you're either born a composer or you're not one. Songs and melodies started coming to me at the age of 11 and thankfully, that hasn't stopped. My father actually has archived my songs from that age!

Inspirations galore

I get inspired from a variety of sources. Literature, films, architecture, design, and music are some of my sources. I love to read and it serves me very well.

Musical past

I'm working to make interesting music and not just hit music. I want to break the clutter and reach out to those of today's generation. I'm trying to bring the past to the future in an interesting way with desi gypsy punk or gypsy folk music. Go back to RD Burman in his heyday and you'll know what I mean.

In my playlist

I love the East European folk music and the artistes there. That's something I want to do. I don't want to copy them but want to do something of my own. My all time favorite musician is Manu Chao. I really like a lot of bands that are creating music at present - Advaita, Medusa, Menwhopause - they are very good. Today there is a big demand of bands in India which is very good and soon I will work with them in my films. I was once judging a talent show related to bands and simply loved them.

Who's DK Bose

It's a lovely song and everyone likes it. Don't take it in a wrong way; listen to the tune as it chases you. It is something which the youth connects with. As I mentioned, I want to change the music scenario. The song reflects the thoughts and feelings of a lot of people who have been put down at some point of time in their lives. When I heard, Saabun ki shakal mein, beta tu toh nikla keval jhaag...', I felt that we all have been in situations when we have been called losers. Aamir wanted to highlight this. And D K Bose is quite an old joke.

On Aamir Khan

He is mind-blowing and a genius! He knows what he wants and what his audiences will like. Aamir Khan briefed us about how the song should be. Scriptwriter Akshat had given us this line -Bhaag DK Bose.' Aamir gave us the gist of the song. Aamir did not interfere while Amitabh Bhattacharya (who penned the lyrics) and I were doing the song. When it was done, the script changed. There was a character in the film called D.K.Bose and the character also changed but we stayed with the song.

Silk route

Ekta Kapoor and Milan Luthria team up again after Once Upon A Time In Mumbai to create a bold, humorous and dazzling multi-starrer set in the 80's south film industry. Billed as Moulin Rouge meets Himmatwala in terms of its look, The Dirty Picture chronicles the romantic journey of the erstwhile screen sensation, Silk Smitha. Following the widespread curiosity around the film and its look, the makers exclusively revealed a never-seen-before look of Vidya in character, which met with an overwhelming response.

Reacting to her first never-seen-before avatar, Vidya remarked, "Silk gave men sleepless nights! Silk is every woman's wild side and yet she's soft where it matters!" She winks, "I've always loved my curves and curves love Silk!" Vidya re-unites with Nasseruddin Shah in The Dirty Picture after their crackling chemistry in the 2010 hit, Ishqiya. Adding to the film's incredible star power are Tusshar and Emraan Hashmi who play the key romantic interests in Silk's life. This is the first time that audiences will see Vidya's pairings with them. Vishal & Shekhar have composed the soundtrack for the keenly anticipated musical, which releases later this year. — HRM

Kind gesture

Hot Hollywood couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have donated 500,000 dollars to help the struggling victims of the Joplin, Mo tornado. The couple handed over the money to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, which will help to rebuild the area which was devastated by the natural disaster.

Pitt - who is a Missouri native and also attended the state's university - issued a statement about their generous donation. "With the devastating loss of thirty percent of the city, the Joplin community faces great challenges ahead. Having spent most of my childhood there, I know these people to be hardworking, humble and especially resilient," an online publication quoted him as saying. "The locally based Community Foundation of the Ozarks will be working shoulder to shoulder with these Joplin residents for the long haul as they rebuild their lives. We, too, hope to further help with these rebuilding efforts," he added. Jolie added: "Our hearts go out to the families in Joplin who have lost so much." — ANI

Elizabeth Taylor Liz Taylor's house on sale

Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor's mansion is up for grabs at 5.25 million pounds.

The luxurious house in Hollywood's Bel Air has been put up for sale after Taylor's death in March, reports a publication online.

The Oscar winning actress, who died at 79, spent the last 30 years of her life in the house, which is a 1960s ranch-style building.

It has six bedrooms and a mosaic tile pool. — IANS

 

Watching in style

Hollywood actress Charlize Theron is all set to be the face of the Dior VIII watch collection. The 35-year-old star, who has previously served as the representative for the French brand J'adore's fragrance collection - did not hesitate when she was asked to work with Dior because she saw how "good looking" the watch was.

"To work with them was a no-brainer and when I saw the product I was like, 'That is a good looking watch!'," she said. However, the Oscar-winning beauty has not always been a great fan of watches and only recently began to sport the wrist accessory because she "missed" it, reported a publication.

"I didn't even wear a watch for like 10 years and only two years ago did I start wearing one again. I really missed it as a piece of jewellery," she said. — PTI

Limited accession

George Clooney Hollywood superstar George Clooney has installed a custom made beach hut on the sets of his upcoming movie to relax in style. The 50-year-old actor, who is currently shooting for his forthcoming film Gravity at London's Shepperton Studios, has set up the luxury chill-out complex for a private relaxation, reported a publication online.

"George has really brought a bit of California to London. His private area is amazing and is better than most people's houses. "Because he's such a big star he can request pretty much whatever he wants and he usually gets it," said a source.

The philanthropist has given his co-star Sandra Bullock and her 16-month-old son Louis a regular access to his private complex. "George lets Louis play on his decking. He is big mates with Sandra, they've known each other for years," added the source. — PTI

Reasons galore

Late comer: Prachi Desai Prachi Desai did not attend the press conference hosted by Vishesh Films and Fox Star Studios. Sources say it is because she didn't want to share the stage with Jacqueline Fernandez who is quite adored by the media and she didn't want to talk about her apparent fall-out with Ekta Kapoor. She reached the venue after the PC was over and cited traffic jam problems. She is currently shooting for Shrishti Arya's film with John Abraham.

Late comer: Prachi Desai

Big break

Angela JonssonAngela Jonsson, a Kingfisher model and Ranbir Kapoor's rumoured arm candy, has got her big Bollywood break in Ekta Kapoor's Kya Kool Hain Hum 2. The film is directed by Sachin Yardi. Riteish Deshmukh and Tusshar Kapoor are part of it, as is Bipasha Basu.

What's in a number

Kiran Rao has often said that she is a Salman Khan fan. She was delighted to hear that Salman Khan has said that Aamir Khan is the most powerful and numero uno actor in Bollywood. However, she doesn't believe in numbers.

Just friends

Cupid has struck some newcomers in Bollywood. Rumour has it that Zoa Morani is getting cozy with Varun Dhawan and Prateik Babber is more than friends with Pooja Gupta. All four of them have obviously denied any possibility of a romance and have stated that they are just friends.

chatter box

Mythological extravaganza

Be it Ganesh Leela, Om Namoh Narayana or the ongoing Mata Ki Chowki, Sahara One's mythological series have always been appreciated by the viewers. Now, Sahara One, in collaboration with the production house of Sagar Arts, humbly brings to its viewers a reverent depiction of the epic story of Lord Hanuman in Jai Jai Bajrang bali.

Jai Jai Bajrangbali will follow the story of Lord Hanuman from his birth to his meeting Shri Ram, the battle against Ravana and the rescue of Mata Sita, to his desire that he remains on earth as long as Rama's name is venerated by people. A new approach to the story will tell the purpose of Lord Hanuman's coming to the mortal world as the eleventh Rudravtar of Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer among the trinities.

This lavishly mounted serial will portray Lord Hanuman's life and service to humanity in delivering the world from the atrocities of invincible demons like Ravana, and mortal agonies like disease and evil influences. These will form the central idea of the script of Jai Jai Jai Bajrangbali.

Daddy issues

Ronit Roy is amused that tv serial producers and film makers have started typecasting him for daddy roles. After his hit serial, Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Bandani to the award winning film Udaan, Ronit has played daddy effectively onscreen. But he claims he has no issues being typecast as long as the roles are substantial. Ronit is excited about bagging Deepa Mehta's next Winds of Change but was saddened when Bandani went off air. He was reportedly saying that Ekta had always called him when she had something in store so he was waiting for her call with a brand new show. Meanwhile, daddy dearest doesn't want his 20-year-old daughter, who lives in the US, to turn into an actress.

Rajiv turns stunt designer

Rajiv Laxman, who became famous after his appearance on Roadies, with his twin Raghu Ram, will now be creatively handling the stunt reality show on Zee TV called Jaanbaaz. Produced by Colosceum, the show has Bollywood hero Sunny Deol as judge and with super cool stunts designed by Rajiv, it sure will be an adventure to look forward to.

Sameer Soni in Balaji next?

Sameer Soni is touted to play the lead in Ekta Kapoor's upcoming show on Colors. Though Sameer came into the lime light after Bigg Boss 4, the actor was looking for suitable roles. This lead role in Ekta's show seems like a good opportunity. The story is about an advocate who gets married to another big shot advocate's daughter and how differences tear them apart. Sameer is mulling over the offer. Earlier too Ekta offered him the lead in Bade Acche Laggte Hai which never materialised.

ON SCREEN: Pallavi SubhashPallavi in Marathi show

Television actress Pallavi Subhash, who rose to fame by playing Gauri in Karam Apna Apana and then she did shows like Kasamh Se and Basera, always wanted to play roles closer to her age but she never got many.

She played a young housewife in her last show Godh Bharaai which did badly and was pulled off air.

Now, Pallavi is thrilled as she has bagged Marathi suspense thriller serial called Guntata Hriday He, where she plays a young girl.

ON SCREEN: Pallavi Subhash

 

NEW ENTRY: Manasi SalviManasi Salvi enters Pavitra Rishta

Manasi Salvi, who was seen in shows like Saarthi and "Koi Apna Sa, returned to television with a bang in Zee TV's super hit show Pavitra Rishta.

According to sources, "Manasi was the woman who saved Manav after he met with an accident. As the story progresses, he will get a job in her husband's company. Manav will start earning well and his lifestyle will change completely. Naved Aslam, who plays the vampire Chand in Pyaar Kii Yeh Ek Kahaani, is seen playing her husband." Manasi says, "I play Ashna the wife of an industrialist. I was looking for a good project for my comeback and this role is an integral part of the show, so I accepted it."

Speaking about his role, Naved says, "Yes, I am playing Manasi's husband in Pavitra Rishta and the character is that of a rich businessman. It is a popular show and produced by Ekta Kapoor with whom I have done a film and am currently doing another TV show Pyaar Ki Yeh Ek Kahani too. I was sure the role would be good. I have just shot a few scenes with Manasi and its good working with her." — HRM

astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Arrange an outing with your partner. Loved ones are unlikely to make special demands. Studies might help you in a promotion. An Arian friend is supportive.Tarot Message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky Colour: Peach. Magic Number: 65

TAURUS: Show your love practically rather than making empty promises. Family members may require your assistance. Not a day for new relationships. The day will end on fairly optimistic note. Tarot Message: Dare to accomplish the tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky Colour: Yellow. Magic Number: 27

GEMINI: If something is already on your calendar, postpone it for a later date. You will be feeling competent to deal with work that requires creativity. Consider your options with great care. Tarot Message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky Color: Forest Green. Magic Number: 39

CANCER: You are in cheerful mood today. Decisions may involve a journey overseas, committing to a formal course of education or joining a religious community. Take care of your documents. Tarot Message: Make compromises outside and come to terms within yourself. Lucky Colour: Deep Red. Magic Number: 25

LEO:You can plan a profitable business trip. Those interested in modeling will get a suitable break. Focus on meditation and yoga. Read a thought provoking book. Tarot Message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses. Lucky Colour: Pink. Magic Number: 44

VIRGO: Pleasurable indulgence might be eat into domestic expenses. Ignore unpleasant gossip. Do not take an impulsive decision. Youngsters will lead a hectic social life. Tarot Message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky Colour: Black. Magic Number: 55

LIBRA: Investments in property is possible. A detailed accounting process lets you know what you can afford in the present situation. Love life will be erratic. You may neglect your health due to busy schedule. Tarot Message: Be positive and think carefully before taking action.Lucky Colour: Purple. Magic Number: 64

SCORPIO: Make the day enjoyable. Some of you may have lost interest in career ambitions and are feeling faded about future prospects. Students interested in competitive sports may be selected. Tarot Message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky Colour: Orange. Magic Number: 46

SAGITTARIUS: Do not to lose hope whatever the situation is at present. Keep in mind that situations change and lucky breaks can be just around the corner. Tarot Message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses; so be confident. Lucky Colour: Coffee. Magic Number: 28

CAPRICORN: Take criticism constructively and accept praise graciously. Make the most of this low-key day because there is plenty of work in store tomorrow. Do not ride rough shadow over the wishes of your colleagues. Tarot Message: Don't take hasty decisions. Lucky Colour: Burgundy. Magic Number: 61

AQUARIUS: Your chivalrous behavior and sentiments strike the right note with appreciate lovers. Pack up your all cares and woes and have a good time. When working alone you will fare best. Tarot Message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky Colour: Golden Brown. Magic Number: 33

PISCES: Arguments are likely to erupt at home. Career women will be in the lime light. Be a little more tactful. Businessmen: new ideas for making money should be examined. Tarot Message: Learn from past experience and desist from making a similar mistake again. Lucky Color: Baize. Magic Number: 28

the year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 13...

The number 4 provides the organization a stable structural foundation for any endeavor. It is represented by Rahu or Uranus which are unpredictable. The month of April and Thursdays are lucky for the number 4 people. Uranus is associated with innovation, rebellion and change. It can make life dramatic and difficult, but it can also shake things up, helping you kick out anything old and stale as you welcome new beginnings. Business: You're hot stuff at work as the year begins, but your romantic potential may decline. Career: you will be subject to distractions.

Self-employed people could get recognition for their recent efforts, obtaining substantial financial rewards. Education: Do not try to give opinions on the issues that you do not understand! You will win admiration if you say what you truly feel instead of what other people want to hear. You must reassess your values.

Ashley OlsenFamily: Your patience is waning, especially about 'putting out' effort, money, time or tolerance. Misbehaving youth may 'get on your nerves' big time. Finance: You could hit a snag at work confounding you. You are advised to seek expert advice on how to handle the situation especially if it pertains to financial matters. You'll need to have some way to stay in constant touch with friends. Don't travel far without your computer or mobile phone.

Ashley Olsen (full name Ashley Fuller Olsen) was born on June 13, 1986 in Sherman Oaks, California. She is an American actress, best known as half of the acting duo Mary-Kate and Ashley alongside her fraternal twin sister Mary-Kate Olsen. During the years TV show Full House became a hit making the twins popular among the younger generation. The Olsen twins had a TVQ (popularity rating) second only to Bill Cosby.





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