Laugh women laugh!
Till not so long ago, women and the genre of comedy were poles apart. Now, with stand-up comedian Bharti Singh leading the way, things are changing for sure
 
Jasmine Singh


comic cut: Upasana SIngh

She cracks hilarious one-liners on the microphone, twitching facial muscles, jumping on the stage and all this is being viewed by more than a dozen people who also can’t help but laugh at her paunch!

She has no qualms about it for this laughter-jerker is absolutely comfortable with it. Bharti Singh from Amirtsar has this uncanny resemblance with women comedians like Manorama, Tun Tun and Guddi Maruti, but as audiences and people in the television industry say, she is a class apart. We wonder whether they are talking about her weight or her ability to make you rock and roll in your seat without having to move to the dance floor. We bet it is the latter!

We can’t help thinking that way. First, we don’t have many women comedians to quote, especially in Punjab and second they are expected to carry a hi-end weight statement. We try to dig into the issue, less women comedians in Punjab, what stops them from taking to the stage! Don’t tell women are only good tear-jerkers!

Bharti Singh of the Comedy Circus is one of the few women comedians who have created a decent enough niche for herself. Do you need to be really humorous to win a fan following? You don’t expect her to laugh on every line, but she does. “No, to be humorous one has to be thoroughly comfortable with oneself,” she says. “I was rifle shooter, and I never saw myself doing comedy. Here I am, making people laugh. I don’t know why audiences have accepted me readily, maybe because I can crack jokes on my myself and my weight,” shares Bharti.

If making fun of your own self is the criteria to become a good woman stand-up comedian, we bet not many women would be comfortable with it! Says Savita Bhatti, who has delivered successful comic acts on television and movies, “Have you seen women cracking jokes at parties; laughing their hearts out. Women are supposed to follow certain norms of the society, and laughing out aloud in public is not acceptable.” Savita Bhatti, however, feels it is the mind sets that need to be changed. “It wasn’t considered decent for a girl to act in movies long time back. The scenario has changed now. In comedy also, you didn’t see many women who were glamorous. They were always on the heavier side. It’s different now. Comedy reality shows have given an opportunity to a lot of women. Everything boils down to one thing - if you are comfortable in your skin, and you think you can laugh on yourself, you wouldn’t feel any hitch in doing the same in front of the audiences,” says Savita, who is all thanks to her husband Jaspal Bhatti for encouraging and giving her an atmosphere where she could make the audiences laugh.

It is about breaking the glass ceiling. And it also about a great comic timing and pulling out fine acts. Women are never considered good with it. In Punjab comedians like Upasana Singh tried to mix comedy with acting, but it was always looked at as a ‘double meaning’ pun. Breaking this was hard. Archana Puran Singh, one of the judges at the Comedy Circus, managed to break a few stereotypes. She doesn’t deny the countable number of women comedians in the industry and Punjab as well. “We now have pretty girls like Juhi Parmar, Karishma Tana and people like Bharti giving men a run for their money. Shows like Comedy Circus have given a right platform to women who have the capability to make others laugh. So, far we have underestimated a woman’s capability to spread laughter, I bet now things will change.”

If women can dare do difficult stunts (read Khatron Ke Khiladi), if she can make the nation sway to her jawani (read Sheila Ki Jawani), if she can flood the nation with her glycerin tears (read television serials), why can’t she make you laugh like…Navjot Singh Sidhu maybe!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Party abhi baki hai…
Head to the hills, go to a friend’s place or hit round-the-clock eateries…for some youngsters the ‘party after the party’ is more fun
Manpriya Khurana

At times, the after-party is the actual party! The saying goes - a lot of Hollywood wannabes would kill their neighbours to be at the Oscar’s after-party. To put it bold and blunt, you haven’t quite arrived if you haven’t been invited to the post event soirees. Head to the hills, shift at round-the-clock places or relocate at a friend’s place. The reasons for after-parties are as varied as the venues.

And the best part…select people make it to the do! Shares Anupreet Sidhu, fashion technology student, Panjab University, “Along with my pals, I always hit the favourite places in the city after we’ve attended any party. Especially at school parties like farewells and freshers, where there are loads of groups, an after-party among close-knit friends is a must.” No wonder, websites teeming with ‘after prom party’ idea galore! And needless to add, the atmosphere at one of these is generally relaxed with the event being exclusive to only close friends.

“It happens among people who clicked at the party; need not necessarily be with the near and dear ones. The idea is to have an informal post party get together among people you’d rather want to be with,” adds Karan Vir Singh, management student, Panjab Technical University.

The current hit single Chaar Baj Gaye Lekin Party Abhi Baki Hai celebrates the spirit of the after-parties. Neha Sharma, a local fashion designer, takes the concept further. “The after-parties are generally famous among socially active group of people, as they are more fun and less formal than the actual party itself.” She winks, “Moreover, it’s a must if you want to catch up on late night gossip and photography sessions; who minds the extra booze going down the system.” No mincing words!

Anyways, once the club is closed, the bar is shut where do you go? Recalls Karan, “Once we had this reunion at a city-based disc. Frankly speaking, the party was boring, we stayed there only for an hour after which nobody wanted to go back home.” He adds, “The after-party that followed is still one of the most cherished memories of our entire gang. We went up hills and it was impromptu, unexpected and fun.”

In the difference, lies the essence of the concept. In its exclusivity lies its appeal! Opines Neha, “The post party group is an essential element to it. But I must say the venue and the timings equally contribute to a perfect after-party. The idea is to be yourself and let loose, as it’s more relaxed; one can network with each other in a more unreserved manner.” To each his own! For some the company matters, for others the venue, for still some others the timings. Opines Manuj Sharma, student, Punjab Engineering College, “It’s enjoyable as long as you know the art of it. Middle of the road or a house, as long as they are neat and clean, with the right company, act as stress busters, since most of the formal business parties can actually be more hectic.” As long as the celebrations continue, why not?

manpriya@tribunemail.com

the ‘in’ side 
Glass palace
Sukhmani
If your budget doesn't allow you a full-stained glass window, look for sun catchers or a faux window

Stained glass has been used for centuries to decorate buildings, mainly church windows. Today only 10 per cent of all stained glasses are used in churches and other religious buildings; the rest are used in residential and industrial architecture. It is a process where small pieces of coloured glass are soldered together with the help of lead or copper foil. You can use stained glass in many ways to enhance the look of your home.

l Stained glass panels can be used on windows and doors. The sunlight pouring through them presents a breath-taking sight.

l If your budget doesn't allow you a full-stained glass window, look for sun catchers or a faux window.

l In case a room is devoid of natural light; don't fret. You can create a niche with a back light and hang a stained glass panel in front.

l Stained glass screens look beautiful and enrich the ambience of a room.

l You can use smaller screens in front of fireplaces.

l Chandeliers and wall scones made of stained glass look awesome. You can use them to make a statement in your foyer or over the dinning table.

l Stained glass lamps look equally stunning. Use them on sofa tables and they work as show pieces as well.

l Your cabinet doors can have stained glass panels, subtly lit from the back.

l Stained glass panels look beautiful on bar canopies as well.

l Mirrors made with stained glass look very attractive and can be used in your bedrooms, hallways or even your bathrooms.

l Stained glass can also be used in creating the most beautiful ceilings.

l Various articles like picture frames, stained glass jewellery boxes or candle-holders, can add a lot of charm to any room.

(Sukhmani is Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

Master Chef
SPREAD some happiness
Kandla Nijhowne

It's a blast furnace out there and just no one is remotely interested in hot foods, fried foods or oily, spice-laden gravies! A sandwich made with whole-wheat bread with fresh veggies, egg or chicken is easy to slap together and easy on the stomach too. The world of cuisine has moved on and jam or butter is not the only classmates for a slice of bread. A simple sandwich spread can be prepared in a blink and doubles perfectly as a dip to accompany corn or potato crisps and batons of fresh or steamed veggies. It can be whizzed in the blender and shoved into the fridge, lasting for up to a week. Trust me, it won't last that long! This superb savory spread will be your saviour, many a time!

Cream cheese spread

600-700 gm yoghurt (preferably full fat)

1 cup shredded carrots

½ cup grated zucchini

1 ½ tbsp chopped fresh parsley

½ tbsp garlic paste.

3 tbsp grated onion

½ tbsp ground pepper

½ tbsp mustard powder

½ tbsp paprika (optional)

Method

l Tip the yoghurt into a square piece of muslin, tie up and hang for several hours till well drained and dry. (You may discard the liquid or use it to make a 'karhi' later)

l In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, carrots, zucchini, parsley, garlic paste, grated onion, mustard and paprika.

l Coarsely grind some fresh pepper. Add to the bowl. This adds a lovely texture and flavour to the spread.

l Turn out into a jar and refrigerate till needed.

l As a variation, you can substitute the carrots, zucchini of parsley with sliced red bell peppers, sliced celery or crushed walnuts. Grated cheese too adds an extra richness to the spread.

The lost human touch
Mona

Gone are days when after a long day at work, people gathered at the chaupal shared their humble lives. They may not be rich in the material sense, but they sure were in relationships.

This is what Kashi Ki Lanka, the latest production by CEVA talks about. Based on a story of Kashinath Singh and directed by Chandra Shekhar, this play is a telling comment on growing modernism and its impact on society. "The play compares how with changing times, infrastructure is growing and human values are being lost," says Shekhar, from the Department of Indian Theatre, Panjab University.

The play is set in Lanka, near Kashi, wherein people gather to chit-chat. As buildings come up at Lanka, people have no place to sit and share. "In a way, it's a reflection of modern society. Just like Chandigarh that has best of infrastructure, but little human interaction. Neighbours don't know each other," shares Shekhar.

The play's focus is its content. The first show is being staged at the Rock Garden on Thursday. "It's a play with minimal technical requirements. We can stage it in a restaurant, terrace or even a living room," says its director.

However, in no way is this play against growth; it is just a nudge to make us realise how technology has totally wiped out face-to-face interaction! mona@tribunemail.com

it’s rocking
Young & Fresh

If the music of a film explains the concept, then music of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara should not be missed. It's fresh, peppy and has a young feel to it. An important add-on to the music is the video of the tracks.

The Tomatino festival makes the song Ik Junoon worth appreciation and then Senorita, which has a Goan music feel to it, is another treat to watch. For this week, it's Ik Junoon that's making the youngsters groove. Rest, know from them.

Party time

It's trademark music from Shankar Ehsaan Loy. Vishal Dadlani and Shankar Mahadevan have done justice to the singing bit. The music is soft and soothing, yet it is a dance number. The video of the song shows actors having a great time at the tomato festival, which makes you feel like throwing a party for your friends.

— Ritesh Garg, PU student

Fun element

The original track is a bit slow, but the remix is perfect for a party. The trio of Shankar Ehsaan Roy has recreated the magic of 'My Name is Khan with this track. The song has a fresh tune and is enjoyable. The video adds to the fun element. Be it Hrithik, Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar or Katrina Kaif, everyone is looking great on screen, making the song click with youngsters.

— Hemant Sharma, SD College student

Picture perfect

I expected high energy music from the film, which targets the younger audience. The music, however, is soft and certainly not meant for parties. The remixed versions can sound a little better. But the video is showing the Tomatino festival, which makes up for the average music. All actors are looking great in the song. However, Shankar Ehsaan Loy could have done better.

— Jaspreet Kaur, a private firm employee

(As told to Ashima Sehajpal)

Wanna be on CLOUD 9?
Mona

All glass rooftop restaurant; with an overview of greenery around, overlooking the hills faraway - is the next new address for all you city folks! Inaugurated on Thursday, Cloud 9 at Shivalkview-17, spread over 4,000 sq feet done in silver-gray with little touches of brightness, offers an unparalleled ambience. Not only is this place wonderful in terms of placing but even food-wise, it offers the very best. "You'll get everything you expect here," says Chef Vineet Chopra, who has with his team prepared a fusion menu.

"The menu is prepared keeping in mind the palate of city folks," says Anurag Walia, deputy general manager, Shivalikview-17. How about Kale Channe Ki Cappuccino, a coffee-soup fusion or Kabargah, lamb chop marinated in spices used in continental food or Bhartha Three Ways, vegetable served in three different sauces? The menu is packed with traditional fare done in continental way so one has options of bruscheta, sizzlers, crepes and burritos. A well-stocked bar with cocktails and mocktails, also has on offer selected wines.

"It's only the best that we use here," says AK Malhotra, general manager, Tourism. The places uses only premium cut meats, sea food and vegetables. This multi-purpose place can be turned into a discotheque, has separate seating for families and will have live music; loads of entertainment for weekends starting Friday onwards. "This is one of the initiatives to provide world class experience here. This being the best in terms of feel, food and entertainment in the city, is reasonably priced," says Ram Niwas, chairman, CITCO and home secretary UT. A meal for two is priced around Rs 1000 here. Check out!

Look who’s leaving an impression
From Rajeev to Prateik, we take a look at newcomers and lesser-known actors who have delivered impeccable performances in their releases this year

Deepak Dobriyal

Several new and lesser-known actors have made a mark in prominent films this year. From Prateik's endearing act in Dhobi Ghat to Arunoday Singh's unpolished gangster act in Yeh Saal Zindagi, here are some memorable performances from the films that have released so far.

Shraddha Kapoor in Luv Ka The End

The light-eyed beauty owns the film and very able at that! The pretty girl has screen presence and she can dance and act equally well. She breezes through dramatic, comic, seductive, and emotional scenes. Miss Kapoor has finally got an opportunity to showcase her talent and she is here to stay and rule.

The (young and new) cast of Shaitan team

Bejoy Nambiar's directorial debut has an eclectic cast comprising mainly newcomers. Everybody has done a splendid job. Kalki effectively brings out the vulnerability and complexities of her character. Her innocence and sadness is heart-rending. She even snorts cocaine like a pro! Neil Bhoopalam is excellent as Zubin. He is kinky but he cracks you up too and looks the part of a geek. He is quite likable because the goodness of his heart shines through. Shiv Pandit gets into the skin of his scheming, street-smart character. There is a suspicious air about him. Gulshan Devaiya plays the cocaine-snorting KC with aplomb. He is grey and unapologetic about it. Nikhil Chinappa makes a decent debut in a supporting role. Raj Kumar Yadav (of Ragini MMS and Love, Sex, aur Dhokha fame) has got typecast in scheming and corrupt roles and he is excellent once again. Keerti Kulhari is sufficiently manipulative, sexy, and vulnerable. Rajat Barmecha's scene is very entertaining and provides a break when the movie gets heavy and serious. His makeover proves that he is capable of doing different roles.

Aditi Rao Hydari and Arunoday Singh in Yeh Saali Zindagi

YSZ belongs to Arunoday Singh. He owns the film. He is amazingly agile as his jumps across the roofs of buildings and gets into moving rickshaws. He was aptly cast as a terrorist in Sikander and played polished characters in Aisha and Mirch but his performance as the passionate, rustic, resourceful, and at times helpless gangster Kuldeep is flawless and will silence his critics. He holds his own opposite established actors such as Irrfan Khan and Yashpal Sharma. He is an absolute revelation. Aditi Rao Hydari's sensuality is hard-to-miss and her chemistry with Arunoday is perfectly wild. She makes an impact with a few scenes. There is something captivating about her.

Rajeev Khandelwal in Shaitan

The former television actor was last seen in Raj Kumar Gupta's Aamir which was his debut film. The good-looking actor makes a superb comeback on the silver screen. His powerful entry scene might get some whistles! With his hard-hitting portrayal of a no-nonsense and hot-headed cop, he takes you back to cop characters in films of the 1990s.

Raj Kumar Yadav and Kainaz Motivala in Ragini MMS

Yadav may not be good-looking but he is spontaneous and has an energetic presence. He makes Uday despicable with his acts. You don't sympathise with his wimpy and crass character. Kainaz Motivala doesn't make much of an impact in the beginning but she rules the screen in the second half. She evokes sympathy for Ragini. Her role is physically demanding and she is quite expressive in her portrayal of the scared, even possessed damsel.

Deepak Dobriyal in Tanu Weds Manu

Deepak Dobriyal has probably given the best performance in the over-rated film. He is natural and completely entertaining as Manu's hot-headed friend. His character is quite believable as well. The actor needs to get his due in Bollywood.

Prateik Babbar in Dhobi Ghat and Dum Maaro Dum

He plays a wimp but hits the right notes with his expression of innocence and paranoia. He wins you over from the first scene in Dum Maaro Dum. Smita Patil's son is a joy to watch and brings out the layers in his character in Dhobi Ghat. As Munna, the dhobi who does odd jobs to make ends meet, he is charming, entertaining, sweet, and vulnerable. We would love to see more of him. — HRM

No, thanks

EX-EFFECT: Priyanka Chopra and Shahid Kapur

Shahid Kapur is in no mood to talk to or work with his ex-flame Priyanka Chopra. He cannot wait to finish shooting for Kunal Kohli's next film.

She is not part of Kaminey 2, either.

Ranbir Kapoor is tired of his playboy image and the way the media pairs him with every girl he is seen with. He is playing it safe and not even going near his co-star in Barfee, Ileana D'cruz.

They are shooting in Darjeeling.

Eyeing the role

PAIR UP: Rani Mukerji and Vishal Bhardwaj

Rani Mukerji refused the lead role in Vishal Bhardwaj's Daayan opposite Vishal Bhardwaj.

However, she wants to maintain a good equation with the acclaimed director and is really keen on working with him and Abhishek Chaubey in Dedh Ishqiya because Vidya Balan is not part of it.


Jackson voted greatest singer of all time

Late singer Michael Jackson has been voted the greatest singer of all time in a new poll.Fans have honoured him by making him top the list of the Greatest Singer Of All Time in a poll conducted by Nme.com. The King of Pop died June 25, 2009, after suffering a cardiac arrest following an overdose of anaesthetic Propofol.

Queen frontman Freddie Mercury came second, while Elvis Presley placed third. Guns N' Roses star Axl Rose came in fourth and John Lennon rounded out the top five.

David Bowie, Robert Plant, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin also featured in the top 10 list.

IANS

Payback time

IN HAPPIER TIMES: Arnold Schwarzenegger with Maria Shriver

Maria Shriver hasn't filed for divorce from Arnold Schwarzenegger yet but the action star is already paying his estranged wife for child supportAs per California law, a spouse is entitled to child support only after he or she files for divorce. The former California governor is paying the bills of his sons Patrick and Christopher's private school.

"Even though Maria is a Kennedy and has inherited a great deal of money from her parent's estate since their deaths, she is taking the child support. "Under California law she is entitled to the child support, once either one of them files for divorce. Maria and Arnold's lawyers have been working on a divorce settlement but in the meantime Arnold is willingly paying the money," said a source.

The insider says she wants to "move on with her life." The couple split after 25 years of marriage, afterSchwarzenegger confessed to having fathered a lovechild with their former housekeeper. — PTI 

Spears ‘laps’ up a fan

Singer Britney Spears surprised a male fan by giving him a lap dance during a concert in Los Angeles.The 29-year-old singer was performing Leather and Lace at the Staples Center in Los Angeles as part of her Femme Fatale tour when she performed the provocative dance for the fan.

She even straddled his neck with her legs. Spears performed a similar dance on a surprised fan in San Jose last week. Meanwhile, the singer is said to be secretly engaged to Hollywood agent Jason Trewick. — IANS

Not LUCKY in love 

Socalite Paris Hilton is single again after splitting from current boyfriend Cy Waits.The reality TV star dated Waits for about a year before calling it quits. "We're not together anymore. I love him and we remain really good friends," Hilton said. "I feel like the relationship ran its course and we'll see what happens," added she.

Hilton, 30 and Waits, a former Vegas nightclub owner, started dating last spring and have spent most of their relationship in the public eye — with a lot of their drama playing out on reality show, World According to Paris. — PTI

Tom Cruise in Rock of Ages

Here is the first picture of Tom Cruise in the upcoming rock musical, Rock of Ages. The film is directed by Adam Shankman and TC plays an over-the-top rock star Stacee Jaxx. He is paired with Malin Akerman. The film will be TC's next after Mission: Impossible's Ghost Protocol.

 

Experiencing life

GROWING UP: Evan Rachel Wood

Hollywood actress Evan Rachel Wood has no regrets about her past wild years and says she was "experiencing life" while she was still youngWood sparked controversies for dating rocker Marilyn Manson when she was just 19 and he was aged 38, and raised speculation about being another casualty of fame at an early age.

But the 23-year-old, who split from Manson last year, has defended her antics by saying that such acts were part of growing up.

"Everybody is entitled to be crazy in their twenties; I think I was making up for lost time. I was trying everything, touring with a rock band, trying different looks, exploring who I was sexually as a woman. I never wanted to look back and be like, 'Oh, man, I wish when I was young I had just hopped on that tour bus'," said Wood.

The Across the Universe star, who suffered the agony of her parent's divorce at the age of nine, had earlier said that she is determined to provide a stable home life for her future children.

— PTI 

‘Royal’ break

In an attempt to promote British talent in Hollywood movies, the Duke and the Duchess of Cambridge will help creative young boys and girls get their big break in different realms of filmdom. Prince William and Kate are joining Tinseltown bosses at a Bafta party and plan to pair the executives up with undiscovered actors, directors, writers and designers from home.

The royal couple's private secretary Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton revealed that British talent would be seated so they were "buddied" with studio bosses. "We hope it will get them that big break but also that it will generate greater interest in investment in UK creative industries. "The Duke sees this as a tremendous opportunity to build on the momentum of British success in TV, film and video games," he added. — ANI

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Romantic life takes an upswing. A good day to try your luck in speculative deals. With so many things on the go, you could get sidetracked easily. A family matter can be sorted out. Tarot Message: Leave things open ended for best results.

Lucky colour: Peach

Magic Number: 33

TAURUS: Pay heed to wise counsel. Those looking for a job will receive suitable offer. You may experience an unusual degree of selflessness of love. Excellent time to work on a new creative project. Tarot Message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. Lucky colour: Red Magic Number: 59

GEMINI: A busy day ahead. Please keep a balance between work and rest. Students: do not become reckless. Focus will make all the difference. An adventurous frame of mind might entice you to try something new. Tarot Message: Wait a while everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic Number: 47

CANCER: Consolidate your gains and do not run after new money spinning schemes. Help other people, but not at the expense of your own good. Set aside time to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings. Tarot Message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Black

Magic Number: 37

LEO: Today most of your time & attention should be centered on your personal life. Arguments with your spouse could become serious. Have faith in your own abilities and you will have the courage to burn plus unstoppable energy. Tarot Message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Golden

Magic Number: 25

VIRGO: Cheerful morning for sportsmen. You will find new opportunities opening up for you. Keep your professional and personal life separate and you won't have to worry about gossip. An opportunity to work from home could come your way. Tarot Message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Royal Blue Magic Number: 27

LIBRA: Your personal plans will meet with some stiff opposition. You reputation could be on the line. Act impartially and avoid the pitfalls of guilt. Practicing workaholics should consider joining a club and make friends. Tarot Message: You can stabilise your financial situation if you make property investments. Lucky colour: Purple Magic Number: 63

SCORPIO: Money wise the day is slow. Friends may lose your confidence. Your beloved may be in a lively mood. Mercury, the planet of communication, starts to move forward again today. Group activities are likely to be heard in a one-on-one discussion. Tarot Message: Avoid gossip session at workplace.

Lucky colour: Silver Magic Number: 26

SAGITTARIUS: Go all out to improve your position at work. Spend time with yourself, listening to your thoughts and feelings. Start a journal or make your own video and record this personal journey of self discovery.

Tarot Message: Open up new doors that could lead you in a lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Golden Brown

Magic Number: 54

CAPRICORN: Domestic issues come up for urgent consideration. Have no worries, your work is well under control. Unrealistic ideals can lead to confrontation. A friend in a power position will be a great support.

Tarot Message: Health of elderly member at home will need to be looked after. Lucky colour: Deep crimson. Magic Number: 54.

AQUARIUS: Housewives: a day to improve your home appearance. An intense discussion with your partner early on can play on your mind all day long. Be honest with yourself in any conflict and stay free of blame or shame. Tarot Message: You have well-wishers around who will give you sound advice. Lucky colour: Pink

Magic Number: 30

PISCES: A partnership might be in the pipeline and looks set for success. A favorable day for finances. An argument with your lover can blow over in a short period of time, so don't let your temper harm you.

Tarot Message: Take limited risks and don't jeopardise your long term capital. Lucky colour: Forest green

Magic Number: 57

Chatter box

Amitabh Bachchan will host KBC 6

The buzz around the fifth season of Kaun Banega Crorepati has barely begun, when we hear news that Big B Amitabh Bachchan will be hosting the sixth season of the quiz show too!! The channel convinced him to sign a contract for two seasons and as both parties were happy with the deal, they went ahead with it. KBC 5 will air on Sony from August 15 and the auditions for the same will begin from July 23.

Travel Diaries

Kinshuk Mahajan, played the charming Viren in Chand Chhupa Badal Mein on Star Plus, that ended last week. On a break, the actor now has a holiday on his mind. We find out about the places that Kinshuk would love to go to on a holiday.

Wanderlust: Kinshuk Mahajan

Kashmir

I have never been to Kashmir and it is the first place on my list of destinations that I plan to visit soon. I have heard so much about the beauty of Kashmir that I can’t wait to see it myself. Hopefully, I will be able to visit Kashmir in a month or so.

Switzerland

Switzerland is so beautiful- I don’t have enough words to describe the natural beauty of the place. I had been there for about 15 days with my family and it was so much fun. Since, I belong to Delhi I love places that have a cold climate and Switzerland is just perfect in all ways.

Lonavala

I feel Amby Valley in Lonavala is the Switzerland of India. Just being there feels as if you are abroad. There are so many options when it comes to adventure sports that one can try there. I tried everything from jet skiing to mountain climbing and had an enjoyable time.

Nepal

I had been to Katmandu in Nepal with a friend whose family lives there. It was a reunion for him and his family and an emotional moment for them. They took me for shopping and I must say I spotted some amazing showpieces in the markets of Katmandu. I would love to go back there for shopping.

Ladakh

As I had mentioned earlier I love visiting places with cold climate and one of my most memorable trips has been with my family to Ladakh. I was a child at that time and remember having so much fun building snowmen and igloos with my cousins. It is the best place to go to if you are tired of your daily routine and are looking forward to a relaxed vacation.

Rajasthan

I find the climate of Rajasthan amazing as it is hot during the day but super cool at night. It is a good place to visit if you want to learn about Indian culture as there are so many historical monuments. One of the places, I visited is Chokhi Dani and fell in love with the beauty of the place. Enjoying a camel ride and going camping are good options, in Rajasthan.

Kerala

I visited Kerala with the cast and crew of Bidaai as we shot some episodes there. We stayed in a huge hotel and although I can’t recall the name now, it was a beautiful place. We went sightseeing and visited places like Allepey and Periyar. It was fun visiting the place with Angad, Sara, Parul and the crew of the show.

Stunt mania in Entertainment ke liye Kuch Bhi Karega

Bollywood actor Sunil Shetty did a spectacular stunt act in Sony’s Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega. Even judges Farah and Anu Malik, will try their hand at stunts this time. Farah will accompany Sunil Shetty on the bike stunt while Anu Malek will do a stunt in a rickshaw, which will be driven on two wheels. Gotta watch this!

Angad finds monsoon sexy!

Angad Hasija, who plays Shankar in Siddarth Tewari’s Phulwa, enjoys monsoons. He loves the windy weather as cool breeze makes him feel romantic at heart. Phulwa’s set is in Filmcity and has a lot of greenery around. His Blackberry status reads as sexy weather. He says, “Monsoons is the time to enjoy Mumbai in true spirit. I am from Delhi and the rains here are different. Rain comes anytime without prior intimation. I enjoy eating corn in this rainy weather. Right now, rains are playing hide and seek but still the weather is good. I am enjoying the role of Shankar. It has made my career graph sexy too as where ever I go I get compliments for my look and doing different role from the schizophrenic Alekh in Bidaai.”

Tina Dutta hospitalised

TOUGH TIMES: Tina Dutta 

Tina Dutta aka Ichha of Colors’ Uttaran is unwell and has been hospitalised.

She fell ill four days ago and was diagnosed with fever and stomach infection. She took a break and was admitted to a hospital for proper care.

Though she is better now, Tina is glad her production house permitted rest and recuperate.

She will be under medication for a while and needs to take care once she starts shooting again. 

 

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is June 24...

Born on the 24th, you have a greater capacity for responsibility and helping others. You may also become the mediator and peacemaker in inharmonious situations.  Ruled by Venus 6 is a loving, stable, and harmonious vibration. As lovers number 6 has a deep dislike of discord and will generally work hard at making the peace.

Deflate undesired expectations. Chip away at existing projects and be ready to do damage control as needed. You will feel the urge for new experiences which will highlight your good points and flair for long-term business deals. Extend the olive branch quickly, especially to in-laws. Keep your partner comfortable and happy. Career issues will be as usual. A pressure of work and mental strain is likely to affect your health and it may need attention. Compatible Signs: Sagittarius, Virgo. Lucky Colors: Rosy Brown, Magenta. Lucky Days: Your lucky days in 2011-12 are Sunday and Friday. Lucky Numbers: 3, 12, 13, 24, 30

Vijayashanti (24 June, 1964, Nirmal, Andhra Pradesh) has starred in over 185 movies. She is credited as The Lady Superstar and The Action Queen of Indian Cinema. For the first few years, she portrayed mostly glamourous roles. Notable among them is her role in the Telugu film Satyam-Shivam (1981), the cast of which included the two legends of Telugu Cinema - NTR and ANR. Following the success of Vijayanthi IPS, the producers of her films began releasing Tamil versions of her movies simultaneously with the Telugu Movies. In 1997, she started her political career by joining the BJP. She started her own political outfit Talli Telangana and later merged into Telangana Rastra Samithi .In 2009 of 15th Lok Sabha she won Medak seat. Astrologically, Vijayashanti will be a failure as a politician. She must concentrate only in producing films.  

New Release
Kitch comedy

Double Dhamaal

Director: Indra Kumar

Producers: Reliance Pictures and Maruti International

It is the age of sequels and this week we have another sequel by director Indra Kumar who is looking confident and relieved with the way the film Double Dhamaal has shaped up. The buzz is that Dhamaal was a hit and Double Dhamaal is expected to be a super hit.

Double Dhamaal starts from where Dhamaal ended. The movie is about a con-job and it is going to be truly hilarious as there will be so much going on silver screen, like conmen conning conmen.

Double Dhamaal has Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Ritesh Deshmukh, Aashish Chaudhary and Jaaved Jaaferi. To add, a glamour quotient the makers have brought Kangna Ranaut and Mallika Sherawat as the female leads. The viewers will not only get to see Mallika in a bikini, but will also throw surprises with a sizzling number Jalebi Bai… track, composed by Anand Raaj Anand. The film will also see the four lead stars in never seen before costumes get-ups, gags and much more promising to keep the audience in splits throughout. Catch this laugh riot ’ in theatres today.

Dharam Pal





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