Wish everyone could manage a pair of aviators inside the auditorium…because when Abhay Deol entered PVR, in Chandigarh on Saturday, wearing his pairs, he blinded almost all his female fans with his infectious smile and gorge-deep dimples!

Looked like the poster boy jumped and walked in straight out of the poster that was kept on one side of the seating arrangement of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara's cast. Let's not forget what occupied space on the other side of it — Hrithik's poster and we so missed him! Wish he could too jump out of the poster in a real avatar! Anyways, coming to the generous Greek God who dawned upon fans, Abhay Deol; he was witty, relaxed, answered every question (even the one why he wore a tee when Hrithik and Farhan didn't), and also replied to the loud "Hey Abhay" of fans with equal enthusiasm.

First, to the most important question. Important because wherever he has gone to promote the film, he has been subjected to the query of his covered chest, in times when that's like a graduation degree to becoming a superstar. "That would have been possible if I had agreed to shave my chest hair. I am sure people wouldn't have liked tomatoes stuck on me. So, the director asked me either to shave my hair or wear a tee. I preferred the latter." Next obvious query was about the tomato festival in Spain, where the sequence was shot. The festival was of course recreated. The three-hour festival was extended for a period of three days. "We shot for eight hours for the song. We started smelling of tomatoes, we couldn't stand next to each other. We hate tomato soup."

Perceived to be the non-commercial cinema star, this is officially Abhay's first typical Bollywood pot-boiler. But Abhay doesn't quite agree with it, "Not that I acted in films which didn't want to mint money at the Box Office. I am a critic of my own films. I choose films only on the basis of script. However, this is my biggest film so far, with immensely popular actors and flexible budget." This is also the first film where he shook a leg, what more can you ask for, he even sang a bit of Senorita! " But who minds any type of singing from Abhay Deol. He crooned a bit again at the PVR and what followed was a big cheer. Who knows Abhay kab milega dobara!

ashima@tribunemail.com

live for today: Farhan Akhtar — Photo: Pradeep Tewari

Director, actor, singer, producer...as the multifaceted Farhan Akhtar walks in to promote his latest flick Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara at PVR, Chandigarh, on Saturday, he is all exuberant.

Farhan comes in to the waiting audience, stands, takes stock of the situation, sits and unfolds the story of the flick and its making. He starts with apologising on behalf of his twin sister as well as the writer-director of the movie, Zoya, who couldn't make it.

"The movie is an entertainer that celebrates the spirit of friendship," he says. "Today is most important and make the most of it is the message it delivers, but not through monologues or preaching but by the very way the situations unfolds. The message is not in your face but each one has to figure it out," says Farhan.

Why boy not girls? "Well, it was Zoya's choice. But it's not like boys just had all the fun. In fact, in the movie, it's women who taught us how to have fun," he says.

Sibling rivalry? Interacting with Farhan smells nothing of it but the opposite. A proud brother, he finds it completely convenient to take orders from the director-sister. "She has been doing that since childhood, work is just an extension of home," he shares. What makes it more comfortable is that they have been working together in the industry for the last decade. "We work together every single day, so it's easy. Be it Zoya, Abhishek or Vijay, whosoever is the director, I am fine working with them. Being a director, I know the challenges and pressures one goes through, so on sets my effort is to assist the director in every possible way," shares Farhan.

The movie that takes a journey through Spain, Egypt and India, has many layers. "The flick operates at many levels, though an entertainer, it works on different levels," shares Farhan, who throughout the conference talks, laughs, shares, winks with his team Katrina, Abhay, Kalki and producer Ritesh Sidhwani. All support for them, he answers when asked how Abhay made it? "He is a wonderful actor, dancer and also a singer; what better could we get," he questions back.

Having had innumerable road trips on his own, Farhan anticipates that it would strike a cord with the masses. Do we get 'Farhan humour' in this one? "Yes, and thanks," he takes the compliment blushingly. Not before long, Farhan at his charming best, had the crowd sing along with him, Na main samjha, na main jaana Jo bhi tumne mujhse kahaa hai Senorita giving them the memories to cherish for times to come!

mona@tribunemail.com

Charmme Kaur, who is debuting in Bollywood with Bbudha Hoga Terra Baap, feels blessed. "It was just the other day that I was walking home from a gurdwara, when a film coordinator spotted me and Telugu cinema happened," says bubbly Charmme, already an established star in South. Year 2001, Charmme relocated to Hyderabad from Mumbai and hasn't looked back since.

"The films did not do that great initially, but strangely I had enough offers. It was not long before that I got appreciation from the audience as well as critics," shares Charmme.

Busy and happy doing cinema in Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam films, right when she thought of trying luck in Bollywood, 'Buddha Hoga Tera Baap' happened. "It's every artiste's dream to work with the legend Amitabh Bachchan. I am so fortunate to have worked with him in my first Hindi flick," says happy Charmme. "He is not only a fantastic actor but also a fantastic human being." Charmme, who plays Raveena Tondon's daughter in the flick is making Bollywood is her priority now.

"I do not plan. When Telugu cinema happened, I didn't know a word in the language. Today, I dub my own films," she says. "The journey has been challenging by almighty's mercy," says Charmme who is certain of His support in her Bollywood career as well.

A Sikh girl Charmme has fond memories of Chandigarh and Rock Garden. "Most of my family is spread in Punjab and Haryana, so I spent most my vacations there," she recalls. First from her family to venture into films Charmme is also grateful to God for being born to supportive parents. "I am glad that my family stands like a rock to me. In fact, many times I feel, they are more ambitious than me."

Apart from work, its family time that Charmme is looking forward to. "And, also give my best shot at Hindi flicks!"

Pop star Katy Perry and her funnyman husband Russell Brand have splashed out USD 6.5 million on a new pad in Los Angeles. The star couple has purchased a 1920s mansion in Hollywood, which earlier belonged to former National Lampoon chief executive Daniel Laiki.

The house, which sits on three acres of land, boasts of nine bathrooms and seven bedrooms. The mansion was used in one series of reality TV dating show The Bachelor, which was hosted by Chris Harrison.

The couple, who married in a traditional Indian ceremony in October 2010, were in the look-out for a new abode after selling out their USD 3.395 million mansion in Los Feliz, California.

They had earlier stayed in a 1922 Mediterranean-style house, which had a swimming pool, four bedrooms and a three-car garage, sporadically for two years. The new lavish mansion also has an outdoor private swimming pool and a guest house. — PTI

Chinese delicacies, Indian delights, comfy sofas, chic interiors, WiFi and a bright atmosphere, corporate canteens are no more any less than plush restaurants. Many organisations still have a dull drab canteen serving the same old daal, roti, aloo and chawal under sweating dead fans by stone-faced staff.

But the best employers now provide much more: chefs, theme days, super food salads, with made-to-order sandwiches and much more to keep their employees happy 'n' healthy. Let's take a sneak peek at some of the office canteens which are providing not only good food but an ambience to relax and chill. Providing employees with breakfast, lunch and snacks the Vodafone Essar's office canteen in Mohali, which can be rebranded as a "restaurant" is called Medallion. Designed on a sports and adventure theme the walls of the office canteen are replete with sports motif, vibrant patterns and life-size sports gear.

A glance across the canteen and you can see a bicycle hanging on a wall, a glider on the roof, and small cubicles with snow boots, rugby ball, baseball gloves and what not. Divided into varied segments the cafeteria whips up a meal befitting for a sportsperson's appetite. There are corners for all kinds of food, like the Munchin corner, only for snacks and quick bites. Then there is a corner for ice-creams and desserts and for the main course there are daily buffets for lunch and breakfast, serving different cuisines daily.

An ideal place for the employees to relax and recharge this not only keeps the employees near their desks but keeps them well fed. Well, what does an employee want (more than money) if he's well fed!

Cafetaria of Bharti Airtel is another place that can make any employee envy. Designed in a way where 175 employees can comfortably sit and have lunch at one go the canteen is a vibrant mix of colours and light.

"Employee convenience and satisfaction to have a wholesome meal in a welcoming ambience is the key," says Paramjit Singh, HR Head, Upper North, Mobile Services, Bharti Airtel. He adds, "At Airtel, we strongly believe that employees are our most important asset and their well-being is the foundation of customer satisfaction and business success. With employees' initiatives and feedback along with inputs from nutritionists, we have devised various meal combinations, thus ensuring that a healthy mix of options is served every day." There is also a snacks counter to a quick bite.

They even have the state-of-the-art gym across the corridor along with table tennis and the badminton court just to remind the employees that staying fit is as important as to eat well.

Hospitals are usually not a very pleasant place to visit but Café Jamjajee at Fortis Hospital is an effervescent, colorful and a lively place to sit and eat. Serving mouth-watering cuisines the café is named by the MD of the Fortis Hospital network, Shivinder Mohan Singh and the name (Café Jamjajee) stands for "good morning, good afternoon, good evening" all rolled into one, signifying that the café is open round the clock for the busy hospital.

Serving regular buffet meal, a smaller "combo meal", a "patient diet" for the calorie conscious, snacks, cold drinks, cookies, and several health foods the best thing about the canteen is its all vegetarian and the head of dietetics and nutrition, Sonia Gandhi personally supervises the menus while the Head of F&B, Parampreet Kaur ensures the food is cooked to specification. Food tasting is done in rotation by all HODs.

Well that's our cities story going global, Google's London headquarters in Victoria is known for serving everything from the Fairtrade chocolate to the in-house sashimi and believe it or not everything is free in the state-of-the-art staff restaurant. 

In the summer season, there is a common question that many people ask, especially women. How to tone up flabby arms? If someone has flabby arms sometimes wearing those T-shirts, strappy dresses or sleeveless tops becomes a real issue.

There are two reasons for flabby arms - one is being overweight and the other is loss of tone to the muscles at the back of the arm, the triceps. There are three main muscle groups in the upper arms: deltoids are high up on the outer part of the arms, up and over the shoulders; biceps are on the inner/front part of the upper arms; and triceps are on the upper back part of the arms.

Plank pose (Ardha Chaturanga Dandasana) is very effective arm-toning exercise, which incorporates movements for all three of these important muscle groups. Plank pose (Ardha Chaturanga Dandasana) not only burns extra fat, but also strengthens and tones the arms muscles. So, strong and toned arms will allow you to wear your favourite dresses with confidence!

Begin with Plank Pose (Ardha Chaturanga Dandasana); get down on your hands and knees. Exhale and slowly stretch one leg back so that the knee is straight. With the next exhalation, place your other leg beside it. Your feet should be about 6 to 8 inches apart, and your toes curled under.

Balance on your hands and your feet. Gaze down between your hands and Make sure that your body is in a straight line from your shoulders to your feet. Do not allow your hips and butt to sag too low or poke too high. Hold this pose for 15 seconds to 2 minutes and come down by bending your knees, and sitting back on the floor. Repeat this pose up to three times. It can take some time to build up enough strength to hold the pose for more than 15 seconds, so be careful not to over-stress your arms and shoulders.

This asana also develops and strengthens core strength and abdominal muscles. There are a few advanced variations to this pose. In one of the variations, technique and duration will remain the same as I mentioned above but lift your one leg up and hold the pose. After this, repeat it by lifting the other leg. This can put more pressure on the lower back, so be careful when using this variation. Do not practice Plank Pose if you are suffering a wrist injury, especially from repetitive strain injury.

(The writer is a Chandigarh-based yoga and fitness expert)

Finest pieces of jewellery from none other than but Montblanc in rose gold, watches with a mother of pearl dials, Bella Dona, just like its name celebrated the spirit of womanhood at Taj, Chandigarh on Saturday.

As the city damsels gathered for a lunch over the jewels, the main attraction was the finest gold and diamond collection. A dazzling made-to-order necklace, all in diamond and gold with the typical Montblanc cut. It has matching earrings and a ring to go with it and of course priced in some double-figure lakhs, stood out among the shining jewels.

Plain gold bracelets studded with diamonds and little charms, gorgeous necklace in rose gold the Bella Donna event had the best of the pieces from Montblanc.

gift a smile: Add that personal touch on cushion covers to wall clocks with pictures

Remember the days when you were a kid? Scribbling your name on everything around would make you feel you own it. Growing up taught you the art of giving as life was not just about yourself. When it comes to presenting a gift to a closed one, deciding is a bigger task.

Gifts of interest

A necktie with an artist's picture on it, collage of pictures on guitar mould, playcards
No kids stuff this Jigsaw puzzle, sippers, wall clocks, pencil boxes.

Go fancy

Personalised lamps, tiles, crystal and engravings on stone.

Home feel:

Desktop products like calendars, mouse pads, engraved pens, penholder, Cushions covers, mugs, photo book, looking mirror, key chains, light frames, t-shirts, plates, toaster sets, fridge magnets.

Where to go:

Digital Vision-38C, Deepak Printing Press-17, Chandigarh.

All these products can be personalised either with the pictures or engraving a special message for your loved one. The gifts may vary from the interest of the person you want to gift it to and depend on how closely you know each other. So the better you know a friend the more you can surprise them with the gift. The prices vary depending on the product. So roam around as much as you can and look for a perfect present for a friend, but a personalised gift will never let you down as it holds an emotional value unlike other gifts.

She calls herself a cancer graduate, swears by the prowess of yoga and is penning a book on the disease. All this while Indian-Canadian actress Lisa Ray has been itching to return to Bollywood, which according to her is growing by leaps and bounds internationally.

"India has started to make an international impact and we are going from strength to strength. The kind of films that are being made now, the scripts...the way films are being made keeping in mind the global audience and also the technology advancements... It is growing by leaps and bounds," says Lisa.

Ray, who made her Bollywood debut in 2001 with "Kasoor", received critical acclaim for her performance in Deepa Mehta's "Water". The actress was going strong with a string of films like "Bollywood/Hollywood", "I Can't Think Straight", "Kill Kill Faster Faster" and "Cooking with Stella" when suddenly in 2009 she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma — a rare cancer of the bone marrow.

But the actress says she was undeterred by the experience and looks back at the phase in a positive light.

"I have been through a difficult period and I was very open about it. There are many lessons that I learnt during that phase of my life. I call myself a cancer graduate now. Now I am more prepared and enthusiastic about life. I am excited to re-engage with life," she said.

The 39-year-old, who was born to a Polish mother and Bengali father, made her cinematic debut in 1994 in Tamil film "Nethaji". These days she is busy penning a book. "Life has taken a new turn and I feel blessed and rewarded. I am happy to be alive. I am working on opening a yoga studio in Canada and also writing a book on cancer awareness."

She says the life threatening disease has made her realise the importance of life. — Agency

Hollywood actress Liv Tyler is struggling to read parts of her father Steven's new autobiography because there are aspects of his life she'd rather not know about. The 34-year-old star bought the Aerosmith frontman's book, Does The Noise in My Head Bother You? and says that it isn't an easy read for her.

"I have this weird reaction because, obviously, I'm his daughter and, as much as I wanna to know him more as a man and as a human, there's, like, this part of me that's kinda like, 'Ignorance is bliss’. There are certain things I just don't wanna know about.

“The first couple of chapters are. I know his mind so well that I understand, but in the opening part where I go wow that’s my dad.” — PTI

Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio has written a letter to officials in California urging them to ban the sale of shark fins in the state. The 36-year-old star has put his weight behind the proposed Assembly Bill 376, which would make it illegal to possess, sell or trade shark fins.

"The International Union for the Conservation of Nature has concluded that a third of shark species are now threatened with extinction of some kind. And recent estimates state that up to 73 million sharks are killed each year for use in shark fin soup and other products," DiCaprio wrote in a letter to members of the California State Senate.

"Traditionally shark fin was affordable only to the elite, and consequently the issue of decimation of species was not a concern. But with the explosion of the world's population and an increasing number of wealthy consumers, this can no longer be considered true, as has been evidenced by the decimation of shark populations worldwide," the letter read.

Hollywood stars Edward Norton, Kristen Bell, Paul Rudd Scarlett Johansson and pop star Kesha have also backed the Bill to save sharks. — PTI

John Abraham has one of the best bodies in Bollywood and it shows due to his hard work. John who is currently shooting in London for Sajid Khan's Housefull 2 didn't get much time to work out. Since his co-star, Akshay Kumar who is on a small vacation with his family in Italy, John has taken out time for work out. A source reveals, "Even at 3 in the morning he goes out for cycling or running but somehow he manages to workout at least 1 hour every day."

They both were glorified for their beauty the same year as Sushmita brought home the Miss Universe crown and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan brought the Miss World crown. They have come a long way. Sushmita has adopted two children and is looking for Mr Right while Aishwarya has a flourishing film career and is expecting her first child with a doting hubby Abhishek Bachchan.

Bollywood actresses rarely praise each other. The ever-gracious Sush says, "Ash will be a beautiful mother." "Aishwarya has always been known as a beautiful woman. Both of us are international winners. She is a beautiful woman who is going to be a mother and that will increase her beauty," Sushmita said at a press conference.

Tom Cruise still looks incredibly good has incredible energy in Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol trailer. The theme song by Alicia Keys and Eminem is bound to be a rage. The movie has been shot at exotic locations such as Russia, Dubai and even India and is sure to be a blockbuster. Anil Kapoor is not seen in the trailer. The movie releases on December 16. We can hardly wait!

The recently turned mother-in-law, Krishnaben Khakhrawala aka Indira Krishnan, will be seen in a different look that in a salwar-kameez during her birthday celebrations.

Her daughter-in-law, Bhumi, surprises her with a make-over which will leave Krishnaben looking much younger.

Bhumi feels this is a good and much needed change for her saasuma. Indira says, “It was a good gesture on Bhumi’s part to gift me a Punjabi suit, something which I have never worn on the show.

It was a good change and hopefully I will be seen in this avatar for a few more episodes to come.”

Ashita Dhavan aka Gaushala and Juhi Aslam aka Bharti in Raakesh Paswan's Baba Aiso Var Dhoondo shot a rain sequence wherein the two ladies indulged in a verbal duel.

Gaushala blasts Bharti accusing her of being responsible for her getting step-motherly treatment from the family.

They shot non-stop for eight hours in the rain and were scared of falling ill.

The two actresses had a blast and they felt it was a scene that offered them a chance to show their histrionics.

Short & sweet: Juhi Aslam

Kalavati aka Ashaka Goradia in the Colors show Laagi Tujhese Lagan, performed a cool act a la veteran actress Rekha.

She danced to the hit Rekha number from Parineeta--Kaisi Paheli Zindagani in the show and loved every minute of it.

“The song was a pleasure as I am her biggest fan,” she said.

Star One's Dhoondh Legi Manzil Humein recently witnessed the entire cast and crew shedding tears and applauding a marvel performer. Neelima moved everyone on the sets with her spotless performance. Director Chittranjan Tripathi reveals, “The scene where Savitri aka Neelima realises that Aarti aka Neeta Shetty is her daughter and confronts Nityanand Tiwari. Neelima delivered a flawless performance and made everyone cry. The unit was mesmerised by her performance and emotional act.”

Buzz in telly world is that Bollywood actress Smiley Suri, who made her debut with Kalyug, is all set to debut on small screen.

Hot and sexy Sayantani Ghosh will be back on telly soon.

She has accepted the remake of popular show Maa being aired on a Bengali channel.

The producers of the show have shot a pilot and sent it to a lead television channel and are waiting for a reply. Jatin Shah is lead Neena Kulkarni, Supriya Shukla have been roped in.

Young and bubbly Sara Khan has a style of her own. She is even known to add her suggestions to the characters she plays be it Sadhana in Bidaai or her current role as Mona in Ram Milaye Jodi. We speak to Sara about her beauty, fitness and fashion sense.

Which are the most important items in your makeup kit?

I always have a mascara, lipstick and kajal. I am a non fussy person and love to be simple than over done.

What are your dos and don'ts regarding beauty regime?

When I am not shooting, I don't apply makeup at all. I ensure to keep my face clean. I don't do facials or any other artificial treatments either. Neither do I need to try home remedies like multani mitti or besan face pack. I hardly take time to apply makeup but while removing it, I am very diligent. I take over 20 minutes to remove makeup post shooting.

Whose style do you admire?

I love Maliaka Arora Khan's dressing sense and style. She is sexy yet decently dressed. I love her spunky and cool personality. She looks fabulous in western, Indian, formal and casuals.

How would you describe your fashion style?

My style mantra is cool and comfortable. I do try new stuff but stick to what looks good on me and what I can carry off. I have friends who give me honest opinion so that I don't go wrong.

Tell us your biggest fashion faux pas?

Four years ago, I had really long hair below my waist and I cut it to shoulder length, following a fashion trend. Though everyone loved my new look, I hated it. I cried over my lost hair and grew my hair later. Till date I feel bad about cutting my hair.

If you had a chance to change your character Mona’s outfit, what would you do?

Mona wears salwar kameez at times too loud and at times subtle. I would love to get her into short kurtis and jeans. I think she would carry them off well and it would make her look snazzier.

What is your fitness regime?

Eating healthy home cooked food, sleeping for eight hours and drinking lots of water. I follow the basic and simple rules for fitness. I ensure I get home cooked food on the sets as the unit food is too oily and spicy. I love porridge and ensure my dabba has enough to last me all day.

What are your dos and don'ts regarding fitness?

I work in a daily soap, so there is no time for work outs. I wish I could but I don't exercise at all. That is perhaps why I am strict with my eating habits. I work on my diet and ensure I don't over eat or eat the wrong things that would add weight. I eat chocolate or sweets only once in a week.

What do you want to improve in yourself?

I am very muhphat, blunt so I wish I could control that habit. I wish I could think before I speak. I don't want to be diplomatic but I want to change it. — HRM

LIBRA: The run of good business continues. It is a case of making hay while the sunshines. Relationships move to closer intimacy, deepening love and fulfilling sexuality. Women: keep a tight grip on purse. Tarot Message: You have to push to succeed and your efforts will pay off. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic Number: 40

SCORPIO: Turn on the charm and the world's your oyster. Be sure to take full advantage of the good opportunity comes your way. It is a perfect day for a clean-up around the house; off for the weeks. Tarot Message: By applying yourself you can build great success. Lucky colour: Peacock Green. Magic Number: 51

SAGITTARIUS: A day is built for workaholics, which is great if you love your job and. Do what you can to improve your mind. Enjoyment can be obtained in the company of the person dearest to you. Tarot Message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Forest Green. Magic Number: 65

CAPRICORN: Make efforts to apply for a job you really want. Do not neglect the daily grind by focusing your attention on your partner. Social activities are not favoured. Warmth and joy can flow to you in romance. Tarot Message: Empty promises are certain. Put your conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic Number: 61

AQUARIUS: Get real about your daily routine and make it a happy one. In the afternoon you will have the opportunity to concentrate on leisure activities. Health issues may cause concern. Do not overlook doctor's advice. Tarot Message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will power. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic Number: 47

PISCES: Your card is "the Magician" so you are not likely to be taken unaware by surprise happenings. If worried about health you should consider alternative therapies as an additional aid to recovery healing. Tarot Message: At work don't hold back anything from your employer. Lucky colour: Metallic Grey. Magic Number: 42

Those of the last decade of 1900 could go through a difficult time and have to spend more than usual. The stars recommend staying calm and acting prudently. Education: Be ready to make a good first impression! Family: Challenges with escalated spending. Fatigue or illness may slow you down. Finance: It would be beneficial not to overspend on visitors and guests. Friendship: Needy companions may give you the chance to 'return favours'. Health: A family member’s health can make anxious. Some of you complain of a pain in the back or in shoulders. Love :So so in 2011 but very responsive in 2011.Travel:You might need a little solitude in December-January. State of Mind: A bit overloaded at times but good overall. Compatible Signs: Libra, Scorpio. Lucky Colours: Indigo, Lavender.

Sachin Khedekar (July 3) is best known for his roles in Astitva, Imtihaan,and as Netaji in Shyam Benegal's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero. He has also directed Kalchakra. Some of his notable films are Imtihaan, Sailaab, Thoda hai thode ki zarorat hai, Teacher, Mumbai Cutting , The Desire, The White Land, Dumkata, Singham and many more are to come.