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Words to kill for…
A revolver, some hard drinks, a do-or-die gang war, lush green fields, home-made butter and beer…confused? Well, if you are a Punjabi music fan, you would be smiling half way through! Anyone who has lived on the healthy diet of Punjabi music knows what these 'sacrosanct' words mean. These are like controversies to Rakhi Sawant, kiss to Mika, tweets to Malika Sherawat. To put it plain and simple, these are the inevitable words for Punjabi songs. No song is complete without the mention of dunali (double-barrel rifle), badla, ghar di kadi daaru…kabza. Talk about changing phase of Punjabi cinema, better lyrics and cinematography, we still haven't moved beyond jatt di daru and jatt da badla. Can we be a little more creative? Pick up a Punjabi song, and there is no way you can complete it successfully without the words daaru and jatt. Chaklo revolver ki kabza laina eh, daaru tan naal jat dey kabran tak jaugi, botlan sharaab diyan ankhan teriyan, tak key tera husan soniye hathon hathiyar gaye…these are a couple of answers. Someone wants to explain? Jeet Jagjit, Punjabi singer, laughs it off. "Words like these are the soul of Punjabi music; they highlight the life that Punjabis lead. They are picked from a normal Punjabi lifestyle." Punjabi lifestyle! And we thought Punjabis are progressing; and there is more to our culture than drinking and gang-wars!
Agrees Sufi singer Barkat Sidhu, who has spent a decade singing songs that highlight Punjabi culture, "Jatt and jatt da badla, dunali were some of the words that Punjabi singers have been using for long. However, Punjabi music does not restrict itself to this. We have a more refined culture that is not run by badla and revolver. Aggression is not the only thing Punjabis have; the young and hot blood is only highlighting this attribute." Daru Dia Botla, Ek Glassy, Daaru nahi maadi, ek peg hor, pehley todh dive botlay, taniu ghol key sharaab vich, je peg tu paavan; interestingly, Youtube shows 8,582 Punjabi songs on daaru theme, and another 1,123 songs on kabza and revolver! We certainly have made a lot of progress. Kingfisher Mallaya needs to turn his attention to Punjab! On the contrary, Labh Janjua, Punjabi singer, feels that Punjabi culture is not at all what is depicted in the music these days. "The jat community does not walk around holding a rifle, drinking and fighting gang-wars. We have a culture rooted in tradition and I am against songs that promote a wrong culture." Ditto for music director Sachin Ahuja, who is also in favour of songs that represent Punjabi culture, "All the same, there is no harm in using some words that talk about the bravado of this community, and using metaphors is some cases is not bad, as long as we don't go overboard with daaru." jasmine@tribunemail.com |
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Gender BLENDER!
There is one field where men want to ape women - fashion, simply because women have so many more options…the dominant gender now wants to slip into their counterparts' shoes!
Increasingly becoming part of popular culture from the beginning of the 21st century, it's a rage on ramp. From desi breed Aneeth Arora, Arjun Saluja, to 'videshi' hot brands Stella McCartney and Prada, everyone is busy cashing-in on the trend. Androgynous fashion, a combination of both masculinity and femininity in outward appearance, has men wearing skirt lookalikes and women the classic black suit with a bow tie. An offshoot of blurring gender distinction in at least the workplace, androgyny is touted to stay here in future. "Androgyny is a rage on the ramp, but there are only a stylish few who can carry the look," says Minnie Sondhi, designer based out of Chandigarh. Albeit fashion here is still conformist, one can see the winds of change. "The gender lines in fashion are already blurring. Pink has jumped from being a woman's favourite to the mens' section; fuscia is increasingly being accepted. Men are comfortably supporting skinny jeans as women are wearing loose shirts," she says. Fashion stems from one's individual sense of style; gender has to do little with it. Men and women are wearing jackets hand in hand. Drawstring pajamas with t-shirts and capes belong to both men and women's wardrobe alike. "Palazzo pants, the most prominent entrant at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week's Fall Winter 2011, Delhi, is just one of the androgynous fashion that has walked from ramp to real life," says Vikram Seth, fashion stylist and image consultant based out of Delhi. Women definitely are more experimental than men, but there are few men as well who think out-of-the-box and are daring enough to sport the style. "Fashion is internal. I believe what you wear should suit your body type, face cut and hair style rather than just gender," says Vikram. "With unisex clothing being in, one can make a difference by the kind of bag or shoes or accessories one wears," he says. Megha Dhaliwal from Madame, Ludhiana, places the trend to changing social scenario. "It's the corporate clothing that has blurred the gender distinction. Formal clothing has a similar set of rules for men and women. We now accept that pretty well. I guess gender neutral clothing is the future," says Megha, who believes women empowerment has lots to do with it. "Women have no qualms donning formal suits, men are not shy doing women thing anymore, the lines of what's for men or women would blur further," she says. It's all part of changing, adapting to new ways. "Human memory is short. It was not long before that jeans made their way into our wardrobe. Today there is nothing more natural for a boy or a girl to slip into a jeans and a t-shirt," says Gaurav Sharma, a fashion design student from Chandigarh who sees himself designing a line that's unisex! mona@tribunemail.com |
Mohini Singh, founder, Hot Millions, is very lively at 73. She wakes up at four in the morning and is in the base kitchen at five. Managing almost two dozen restaurants and hotels, a little rest and a walk in between, her day ends at 10 at night! As on Saturday morning, Mohini Singh sits along with her elder son Mohan Singh in their new restaurant High Point-17, to share her success story. She is full of enthusiasm almost that of a beginner. "It's been quite a story," says Mohini with a twinkle in her eyes. "My husband was a foodie and I loved to cook for him. He would encourage me so much that I yearned to learn more and more," she shares. It was home affair till at the age of 41, Col Anant Bir Singh ventured into Quick Service Family Restaurant and Mohini decided to give company to her life partner. In 1979, they came up with first quick service restaurant in Chandigarh. "There was no fast food culture then. We had heard of McDonalds abroad but seen, visited only Nirulas in Delhi," she says. Without any professional background, this husband-wife duo started on the sheer strength of their hardwork. "I was scared to start with, had no experience of handling kitchen or customers. I just worked on the line that I wouldn't serve something in the restaurant that I wouldn't to my family," says Mohini. And as they say, the rest is history. Today Hot Millions is a brand with over 20 outlets. Not only is it giving competition to international giants that have made their appearance in the city, but the brand also has two thriving outlets in New Jersey and New York, USA. Mohini Singh shares her dream journey with us. It should come from the bottom of your heart: "Belief in one's dream is most important. I wanted our venture to succeed for I did not want to let down my husband. And, together with our three sons, we have been quite a team and have been working towards the dream," says Mohini. Hardwork and perseverance: "I have worked 22 to 23 hours a day initially," shares Mohini. "I remember that time distinctly. Mom had dark circles under her eyes. We would fight with her and insist that she rests," recalls Mohan Bir. "Hardwork doesn't kill anyone but stress can. Stress can be mentally controlled; art of living helped me immensely," she shares. Taking care if the team: "I feel that the benefits should percolate down to the team. We have a team of professionals who have been with us from the beginning. When we opened operations in the US, we considered it as an opportunity for them as well, and eight of them took over operations in the US. One needs to build this mutual trust," she shares. Consistency is the name of the game: "Once you have achieved something, never make the blunder of getting slow," says Mohini. When customers liked restaurants' signature dishes, Mohini ensured that they taste the very same over the decades. Take pleasure in the work you do: "The last but most important is that you make your passion your profession," shares Mohini. Many of her hit recipes like Chicken Pineapple Salad, Kathi Kababs and Fruit Cream have enjoyed the long patronage of clients. Even at 73, she tends to all the plants in her properties. "I loved gardening, since I cannot have exclusive time for it, I make-do with whatever little I can in our restaurants," says Mohini. We cannot but admire the freshest yellow rose on the table! mona@tribunemail.com |
Gyan Zone The chip is one of the most important shots of the short game. It is a relatively easier shot and in terms of scoring, the most important. A good player should be able to hit a chip from around the green to within a club length of the hole. During practice we should make a circle with a radius of 3 feet and mark this with tee's. Use a sand wedge to measure this radius as this club is around 3 feet in length. Take 10 balls and count how many you could chip into this circle. A reasonably good short game player should get at least 60 % within this circle. If at the start of this type of practice you fall short in your percentage, you will find that over a period of a few weeks you would be able to achieve this. This would build your confidence in your chipping and will reduce your scores on the course. We need to monitor our results while we practice to build trust and gain confidence. This exercise also puts pressure on you and helps build performance under pressure. For a chip shot from around the green the radius of the circle should be 3 feet, for a shot within 30 yards a radius of 5 feet and above 30 yards up to a full sand wedge, a radius of 10 feet. Percentage of shots within this circle would also drop with the increase in distance. As equipment has made the long game easier, courses have increased the difficulty factor on and around the greens. There are more contours on the greens and thicker fringes. As the fringe gets thicker, the difficulty of the basic chip shot increases. The club has to approach the ball on a steeper arc so as to catch the ball first. To achieve this, the takeway of the backswing has to get steeper. This can be achieved in three ways - 1.Set the centre of your body ahead of the ball at address. 2.Keep the right elbow close to your right side on the backswing 3.Hinge the wrists a little to lift the club. A player could employ either one of these or all together. I prefer the body ahead of the ball so as to bring your weight more on the forward foot and keep the right elbow soft so that it folds on the takeaway. This allows the wrists to hinge themselves without an active wrist cock. The hands should be ahead of the club head at impact. The follow through should be low and the left wrist must remain flat at the finish. |
Heart Talk I am 27-year-old girl working in an MNC. I feel uneasy as my boss interferes with my personal life. He wants to know who do I hang out with, where do I go after work, etc? It has become difficult to work. Please advise. Priya Singh, Chandigarh This must be an uneasy situation for you, but it needs to be handled carefully and tactfully if you don't want to leave your job. Put it to your boss in clear and polite yet firm words that you don't like his interference. I am sure if he is smart, he will refrain himself from doing this. Don't panic, such situations happen in offices. I am 22 year old girl from a small town in Himachal Pradesh. I have moved into a PG, but I am not happy with my roommate. She uses all my stuff without my permission, and pretends to be my closest friend. I don't want to upset her but I cannot tolerate her attitude. Richa Sharma, Chandigarh Make things clear and tell her that you don't like her using your stuff. There is no point sulking when you don't like what she is doing. You can't be staying in the same room with her when you are not comfortable. |
GET PHYSICAL People try so many different methods to get a flat stomach, but often end up disappointed. A flat stomach is no easy feat, albeit not impossible. The frustrating reality is that the midsection is one of the trickiest areas to tone. That is why even fitness buffs dedicated to regular exercise often cannot iron out their abs. It takes a lot of hardwork and commitment to achieve and maintain a flat stomach. Exercise alone is not the key. A lean midsection takes a combination of good nutrition, cardiovascular conditioning and abdominal training. You must get all three of these (especially your diet) right on a consistent basis in order to even get close to flat abs. CARDIO EXERCISES
You need to have an overall fat burning regime. You can do all the crunches in the world but if you have a layer of flab covering up your tummy, no one is going to see the fruits of your labour. Cardiovascular exercises, whether it's running, walking, or taking a cycling or dance class, can help burn calories. Combined with a balanced diet, aerobic exercise helps you lose the fat built up above the muscle. Thirty minutes of aerobic exercise 4 to 5 times a week is enough. ABDOMINAL TRAINING
1) Ab Crunches Lying on your back put your knees up in the air so that your thighs are at a right angle to your torso, with your knees bent. If you like you can rest your feet on something, like a chair. Put your hands either behind your head or gently touching the sides of your head. Now, slowly raise your shoulders off the ground and try to touch your breastbone to your pelvis, breathing out as you go. Although the actual movement will be very small (your upper torso should move through less than 30 degrees), you should try to go as high as possible. Only your spine should bend, your hips should not move. Do these slowly to avoid using momentum to help. You can increase the difficulty of the exercise by extending your hands out behind your head instead of keeping them at the side. Make sure you don't jerk your hands forward to help with the crunch, keep them still. 2) Lying Leg Raises Lie on your back with your hands, palms down under your buttocks. Raise your legs about 30cm (12") off the floor and hold them there. Now trying to use just your lower abs, raise your legs by another 15cm (6"). Do this by tilting the pelvis. Make sure your knees are slightly bent. If you're big or have long legs or both, you should probably avoid this exercise. For people with legs that are too heavy for their lower abs strength, this exercise pulls the lower back into an exaggerated arch which is bad (and painful). If you have this problem you can either try bending your knees slightly and making sure you keep your lower back fairly flat, or just try another exercise. 3) Bicycle Lie flat on the floor with your lower back pressed to the ground. Put your hands beside your head. Bring your knees up to about a 45-degree angle and slowly go through a bicycle pedal motion. Touch your left elbow to your right knee, then your right elbow to your left knee. Breathe evenly throughout the exercise. 4) Alternating Superman Lie face down on a mat with your arms stretched above your head (like superman). Raise your right arm and left leg about 5-6 inches off the ground (or as far as you comfortably can). Hold for three seconds and relax; repeat with the opposite arm and leg. The truth is, even if you do everything right and start losing body fat, there's no guarantee you'll lose it from your abs. Your body stores and loses fat according to your genes. Bust these Myths
1) You have to train your abs every day. The rules of weight training state that you should give your muscles at least a day of rest to recover and this applies to your abs as well. Instead of working your abs everyday, do them every other day or even just three times a week. They need a break just like the rest of your body. The trick is to train them hard. The key is to choose exercises that really fatigue your ab muscles, so that they actually need recovery time. 2) If you have a bad back, training the abs will worsen it. Training your abs will strengthen your back. The opposing muscles in our body always assist each other. So if you have weak ab muscles, the load of the work falls on the back. Strengthen the abs and your back will become stronger as well. Don't waste time by falling victim to the six main ab myths. Train intelligently in accordance with scientific techniques.
—As told to Poonam Bindra
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A new wristband that promises to help dieters lose extra pounds healthily has been launched. The Up bracelet aims to help wearers to lead a more balanced lifestyle by tracking eating, sleeping and activity patterns. The wristband is designed to connect to a smartphone, so the information recorded can be fed into an accompanying app. Details of food consumed can be entered manually into the app, or by taking a photograph with the smartphone. The programme will then advise the user ways in which they could improve their lifestyle, such as recommending a high-protein breakfast and an extra glass of water for a person lacking in sleep. The Up band's creator, Jawbone, which is best known for designing Bluetooth headsets and speakers, invested 120 million dollars into the development of the project. "The CDC says that for the first time in history, lifestyle diseases such as diabetes are killing more people than communicable diseases. We're trying to solve that problem," the Daily Mail quoted Travis Bogard, vice-president of product management, as telling fastcodesign.com. The company claims that the wristband is unobtrusive, unlike existing products on the market. A price for the wristband has not been released yet, though Jawbone promises that it will be affordable and available in a range of colours. It is expected to go on sale in the U.S. before the end of the year. — ANI |
Akhil Bhartiya Dastkar Samiti, New Delhi, is organising Lipakshee, an exhibition cum sale at Lajpat Rai Bhawan—15. The exhibition has weavers from various parts of the country to display and sell their handloom and handicrafts products. There are sarees from Orissa, Batic print, Bagh print, Rajasthani block print. Also, there is running fabric - Banarasi silk, Bhagalpuri silk, cotton of various kinds of embroidery. Also, on display are — bed sheets, cushion covers, carpets. Hyderabadi pearls, Jaipur stone silver jewellery, lac Jewellery, brass statues, paintings from Orissa, Channapatnam toys, there is a range of handicrafts to choose from. There is 20 per cent discount on handloom and 10 per cent discount on handicrafts. (On till July 24) — TNS |
Astro Turf
ARIES: Put more effort into completing unfinished work. Your health could be worrying you a little, so it would be wise to see a health professional for the best treatment. Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds.
Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43.
TAURUS: A sudden improvement in your fortune is indicated. Workmates may be rather aggressive. Emotionally you could be easily disturbed. Emotional contact with a friend could be informative. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters.Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47. GEMINI: Try to reduce the amount of cash you spend on groceries. New attractions are likely to be serious. Do not hold back anything from your boss. Put problems aside for an evening of cheer.Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise.
Magic number: 44. CANCER: A romantic and passionate attraction might lure you into dangerous waters. Keep your mind and your heart in balance and you won't overstep the mark. A female colleague could push your buttons. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future as you do so. Lucky colour: Fiery red.
Magic number: 28. LEO: Be more discriminating in the choice of your company. Pace yourself, since your energy levels can be low. You will find that many of your negative emotions are coming from external sources. Try to get an early night.
Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 33. VIRGO: Get all of your affairs in order. Not a time for delegating responsibility. While you worry about your situation, the phone might ring and somebody will offer a solution. Tarot message: You can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Peacock blue.
Magic number: 36. LIBRA: Seek publicity for business plans. Stars favour import/export. You are unlikely to get much chance to relax this evening. You may feel restricted by your family circumstances or your partner's expectations. Tarot Message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54. SCORPIO: Your card The Magician castes smiles on health. Useful day for discussing long term plans. A wealth of opportunity and ideas could keep you busy all day, so make sure you do not overdo it.
Tarot Message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson.
Magic number: 37. SAGITTARIUS: The Queen of Swords reveals that new love attractions are likely to be serious. Life at home is much easier to cope with. If you are shopping for a gift, stick to your budget. Tarot message: You can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number:
56. CAPRICORN: A day of mixed luck. Lovers: Avoid meeting today. Any projects connected with study, travel and cultural pursuits will be satisfying. You have the ability to work hard and overcome the obstacles in your path. Tarot message: Don't try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25 AQUARIUS: You may find the day quite tiring. A new romance is on the offing. Your expectations could lead you down the garden path. Legal matters could take an expected turn and surprise you with a positive twist. Tarot Message: Do not trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red.
Magic number: 28 PISCES: No speculation please. A relative may behave in a rather unpredictable way. The need for balance between work and pleasure is paramount. If you are trying to juggle work and family should take time out for yourself. Tarot Message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky color: Forest green. Magic number: 32. |
Chatter Box
Post her engagement in Swayamvar, dusky beauty Ratan Rajpoot took her fiancé Abhinav Sharma to show the sights in Mumbai. She first took him to the Radhe Krishna mandir in Film City and then to the sets of her now off air show Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo. Their next destination was the Mahalaxmi temple. This was the first time the duo spent quality time together off-screen and we hope this outing brought them closer. Back to studies
Though she is busy shooting Imagine's Baba Asio Varr Dhoondo, actress Juhi Aslam is aware that due to her short stature she might not get interesting and regular work in acting. She has plans to study if good work doesn't come her way. She plans to do B Sc and even attempt to become a doctor. ZNMD stars to shake a leg
While Star Plus' ultimate dance reality show Just Dance garners cool TRPs and has been wowing the audiences with the superb talents, Hrithik Roshan's costars from Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara came on the sets of Just Dance to encourage and boost the morale of the contestants, enthralling them with their wit and talent! Abhay Deol and Farhan Akhtar spoke to the contestants who were thrilled to meet them. Later Hrithik, Farah Khan, Vaibhavi Merchant even rocked the stage with Abhay and
Farhan. Sonu, the stuntman!
After Gurmeet Choudhary's daredevil stunts on Sony's Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega, Bollywood actor Sonu Sood will perform some daredevil stunts on the show. There will be a stunt-special episode on Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega wherein Sonu Sood will be performing some daredevil stunts on Amitabh Bachchan's songs. After the hiatus Television actor Romit Raaj, who was last seen on Colors Thoda Hai Bas Thode Ki Zaroorat Hai, is back after a hiatus of nine months on television with Sony's popular courtroom drama Adaalat as Ronit Roy aka KD Pathak's subordinate. We spoke to Romit Raaj about his comeback and more. What made you to choose Adaalat as your comeback? I am very passionate about acting and in my career I have always done meaningful roles like Yuvraaj in Ghar Lakshmi Betiyaan, Jeet in Maayka and also anchoring a show like Perfect Bride on Star Plus and so when Adaalat was offered I took up the offer as I loved the character. I have never played someone like him before. What do you like about
Adaalat? I like the concept and characters especially a tough lawyer like K.D.Pathak. Adaalat is totally different from a regular daily soap and it has a thriller element which I like a lot. Are you excited that you will share your screen space with Ronit Roy? He is a well known actor in this industry and I feel it's a golden opportunity for me to work with him for the first time. I remember meeting him while shooting Kitchen Champion and I told him that I admired him as an actor. It is my privilege that I am working with one of my favourite actor. How are you preparing for the role? For the first time, I am playing an associate to a lawyer, so for that, I am working on the mannerisms, learning the ways of a lawyer and stuff needed for me to do in the courtroom. I am preparing by watching the show itself. Which reel lawyer do you like the most? On television, I really like KD Pathak but on the silver screen, in Hollywood I loved the role of Tom Cruise in A Few Good Men, Keanu Reeves in Devils Advocate. Among our films, I really like Anil Kapoor in Meri Jung and Sunny Deol in Damini. During this break, what kept you busy? I shot for two short films which went for the Cannes Festival. Lady of the show Reshmi Ghosh, who was last seen in Tere Liye on Star Plus, is all set to explore a new territory. She will be turning host with the latest season of Comedy Circus- Comedy Ka Naya Daur that will begin this weekend. Reshmi reveals, "I was nervous about hosting the show. I have hosted some shows for a Bengali channel in the past but that was easy like the kind you see on Zoom TV or other lifestyle channels. This is for the first time that I will be hosting such a big show. I have shot for the first episode but it is only after the show is telecast that I will know how good a job I have done. I have to say that the judges and artistes were very helpful and did not make me feel like a newcomer. They made me comfortable and the shoot went off well." Speaking about her look in the show, the actress says, "Like the hosts of the previous seasons, I too will be wearing short dresses but I will make sure that it is nothing vulgar. I have been in the industry for 12 years now but have never agreed to don any vulgar dress. The producers of Comedy Circus are quite cool in that matter and have given me the freedom to wear what I like." When asked about her favourite performers on the show Reshmi quips, "I love everyone from the previous seasons as all of them have such good comic timing. If I have to pick then my favourites are Krishna, Sudesh, Bharti and Kapil." Reshmi also reveals that besides this show there are some other projects that we will get to see her in soon. The actress says, "There are a few projects in the pipe line and I am excited about them. I am now relaxed about work as I can afford to pick and choose. Hosting was something I wanted to try and am doing that but I will not take up something I am not excited about. I am open to experimenting with all kinds of roles except mythological. If it is for a movie, it is a different thing but mythological roles on TV are too taxing." — HRM |
Star Track
Lost in generation! Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan: It is often said that Amitabh Bachchan didn't have Amitabh Bachchan for a father. Everybody knows about Big B's sheer magnetism and star power. He enthralled audiences with his deep voice, dialogue delivery, screen presence, intensity and acting and achieved unprecedented heights of stardom. He has great films such as Sholay, Don, Deewar, and Zanjeer, among others to his credit. After a low phase, he made a smashing comeback with Kaun Banega Crorepati and films such as Baghban and Sarkar. Scripts were being written especially for him. He is a force to reckon with even today. The problem for Abhishek Bachchan is that he has to live up to the standards created by his father and that is no easy task. He is a good actor but he lacks the sheer magnetism and personality of his father. Yuva, Paa, Dhoom 1 & 2, Sarkar, Sarkar Raj, and Guru are the hits of his career. He isn't really a solo-hero material. His upcoming films Players and Dhoom 3 are multi-starrers. Abhishek will always be around but it is unlikely that he will become a superstar like his father. Fast forward Pankaj Kapur and Shahid Kapoor: Pankaj Kapur is one of the most respected actors in the industry today. He has done socially relevant films and acted in and directed television serials. Despite all this, he is a very humble and intelligent man. His son Shahid made his debut almost a decade ago and was tagged as a chocolate boy and a heartthrob. Success came to him easily and he shot to stardom. A few flops followed till he proved his mettle as a sensitive actor in hits such as Vivaah, Jab We Met and Kaminey. The father and son have come together in Mausam. The romantic film has been written and directed by Kapur Sr. and for lead actor Shahid, the film and role are easily among the most challenging, significant, and intense in his career. Two steps ahead Rakesh and Hrithik Roshan: Rakesh Roshan was an actor of hit films such as Khoobsoorat and Kaamchor. He was fairly successful but he didn't become a star. He made a smooth transition to production and direction. Khoon Bhari Maang, Karan Arjun, and Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai are among his hit films. His hits got even bigger with Koi Mil Gaya and Krrishh. Hrithik Roshan, his handsome son, was launched in Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai and he became a star overnight. He has had his ups and downs but he is an undeniable superstar. He is known for his smashing or sensitive performances in Dhoom 2, Mission: Kashmir, Koi Mil Gaya, Jodhaa Akbar, and Guzaarish. He has made his father very, very proud by becoming even more successful. Show must go on… Rishi Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor: National Award winner Rishi Kapoor was the chocolate boy of his time and he made a super-hit pair with (now wife) Neetu Singh. Rishi was a heartthrob known for his dancing and acting. Ranbir Kapoor is also known as a fabulous dancer and a versatile and effortless actor. Proving his mettle in acclaimed films such as Rocket Singh, Raajneeti, and Wake Up Sid!, the Kapoor scion has lived up to his family name. Papa Rishi has said that he is very proud of his son Rocking on… Javed Akhtar and Farhan Akhtar: Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan have written iconic films such as Sholay and Deewar. While Salim's son Salman became an actor and star, Farhan did his father proud by penning and directing the unforgettable and nuanced Dil Chahta Hai. He went on to make Lakshya, a sensitive and difficult coming-of-age film, and finally Don 2. He then became an actor and singer with Rock On! While also penning the dialogues of that movie. Javed Akhtar continues to write scripts and lyrics for his son's productions. Farhan is one of the most sought-after directors in the industry and has also established himself as an actor. His latest film is Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, directed by sister Zoya. Here is a son who has followed in his father's footsteps and successfully tried new paths as well. Thumbs down Jeetendra and Tusshar Kapoor: Jeetendra somehow made white pants and white shoes work. He had his set of critics but one cannot deny that he was one of the superstars of the 1980s. He could dance and was pleasant to look at with decent acting skills to boot. We have no idea who planted the seed of acting in the mind of Tusshar Kapoor. He doesn't have a gorgeous face and his acting skills are nothing to write about. He cannot sell a movie. He is in the industry only because of his sister Ekta. She is a successful producer and gives him roles in her multi-starrers. His father's fans are not pleased. Following in the footsteps Dharmendra and Bobby and Sunny Deol: It is hard to find people who aren't enchanted by Dharmendra. Good looks, acting skills, hit dialogues, screen presence, affairs, screaming fans and controversies, he had it all! Chupke Chupke, Sholay, and Dream Girl are among his hit films. Sunny Deol did live up to his father's stardom to an extent. Debuting with Betaab in 1982, he was a rage through the 1980s and a portion of the 1990s with films such as Damini, Ghayal, Arjun, and Darr to his credit. In fact, Gadar is among the biggest blockbusters of all time. Sadly, Bobby Deol has not been able to achieve an iota of his brother's or father's success. He has had hits like Gupt and Soldier but he is not counted among the top stars today. He has done multi-starrers such as Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, Thank You, and Heroes. His Nanhe Jaisalmer and Help tanked at the box office. Yamla Pagla Deewana was a genuine hit but it worked because of the three Deols coming together. Bobby will be seen next in Abbas Mustan's Players. —HRM Shake it baby! US reality TV star Kim Kardashian is set to open a milkshake bar here following a deal between its founder and Dubai-based Emirates Hospitality. The 30-year-old Keeping Up With the Kardashians star and her mother Kris Jenner will create their signature shakes at the launch of Millions of Milkshakes on October 14, the company said in a statement. The Dubai opening by Emirates Hospitality will be the first franchise outside of the United States. The Millions of Milkshakes concept allows customers to design their own milkshake with over 50 toppings to choose from. "I am so excited to be working with Millions of Milkshakes and Emirates Hospitality to launch my very own signature shake in the Middle East and I can't wait to introduce it to my fans in the UAE," Kardashian said in the statement. She joins a long list of Hollywood actors, musicians, and athletes who have tried or created shakes at Millions of Milkshakes including Miley Cyrus, Pamela Anderson, David Beckham, Leonardo DiCaprio, Reese Witherspoon and the Jonas Brothers. The two original Millions of Milkshakes in Westfield Culver City and West Hollywood, California, already have a huge following. Milkshakes founder Sheeraz Hasan, the media mogul, said, "It is an honour to be working with Emirates Hospitality for the launch. —PTI Miranda 's secret
Supermodel Miranda Kerr, who regained her bikini body soon after giving birth to her baby son this year, said she stays in shape by taking coconut oil in her meals. The 28-year-old Victoria's Secret model said that despite her recent motherhood she stays fit by making coconut oil a part of her diet, a publication reported. "I personally take four tablespoons of coconut oil per day, either on my salads, in my cooking or in my cups of green tea," she said. Kerr is married to Lord of the Rings star Orlando Bloom. She gave birth to their first child Flynn in January and also said breastfeeding has helped her figure look even better. — PTI Brand new Queen R&B star Rihanna has toppled Lady Gaga as the most popular female celeb on Facebook. Rihanna, 23, has replaced Gaga as the most-liked female star on the site, raking in more than 40.5 million 'likes', a far cry from the 5,000 she had last summer, reported a television channel online. Gaga started the year as the top living person on the social networking website, with only the late Michael Jackson garnering more 'likes' from fans around the world. Eminem surpassed Gaga's feat in February and, by March, he had stolen the crown from the King of Pop too, with more than 30 million votes. However, Gaga still rules over Twitter with over 11.6 million followers. — PTI Reality check Despite announcing the end of their seven-year marriage last week, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony's upcoming talent show will still go ahead. According to a website, the former couple will work together on Q'viva! The Chosen. A spokesman for Xix Entertainment, the company which pioneered the reality programme, has spoken out to squash rumours that the project has been thrown into jeopardy. "They're both committed to Q'viva! The show goes on!" a publication quoted the rep as saying. Lopez and Anthony had developed a plan to head off on a massive global tour this summer —ANI Look who's calling Pop star Amy Winehouse has been forced to change her mobile number because her jailed ex-husband Blake Fielder-Civil has been troubling her with unwanted calls. Winehouse, 28, divorced Fielder-Civil in 2009 after two years of marriage. But Fielder-Civil, who is currently serving a 32-month sentence for burglary and possession of an imitation firearm, has been bothering his former wife over the phone, says Winehouse's representative. "She's had to change her number. He has been calling her more than 10 times a day. He uses a mobile (cell phone) in jail," said Winehouse's publicist. However, the troubled pop star's spokesperson made the clarifications after Blake's current fiancee Sarah Aspin claimed that Winehouse was involved in sending him a string of saucy text messages in recent weeks, reported a publication online. "She needs to keep her hands off him. He is mine and we are a family now. I've had enough of her thinking she can click her fingers and get him back whenever she wants. She phones him when she is really out of it (drunk) and her texts are even signed off 'your wife'," told Aspin. —PTI |
The Year Ahead
If your birthday is July 19...
Number one is the number of new beginnings, action and leadership. These are the people who lead. They are optimistic and always ready to lighten up the darkness. They are influenced by the Sun, Mars, Mercury and Uranus and they belong to the fire element. Ruby is the perfect gemstone for the number one people. January and October are favorable for them and their lucky day is Sunday and 10, 19 and 28 are their favorable monthly dates. Business: Put your effort toward something that's moving forward now, and then go back to your priorities starting November when the stars point towards progress. Career: Everything will go smoothly and you'll have nothing to worry about. You'll earn more than average and you'll have new opportunities. Education: Just because you haven't found what you have been searching for, doesn't mean it isn't there. Family: A big purchase out of capacity may tighten the family budget but be 'well worth it in the long run. Those of you with children may see a bit more spending. Medical expense may go up, especially for elders or spouse. Finance: Boss will put extra pressure on you. Few deals will get the extra money needed. You will sign some important papers to reduce financial pressure. Friendship: A good friend will understand, especially if career or family demands are at hand. Health: Some of you may have slight health problems that will require you to take rest for few days. You are required to take care of your diet and focus on your health. Some of you may catch cold. Avoid drinking cold and hard drinks in parties or get together. Love: The Venus skulks around in your secretive 6th House. It may be wise to keep a low profile socially. Travel in a group will be better in undertaking religious journeys. Compatible signs: Gemini, Capricorn. Lucky colors: Dark green and brown. Lucky Days: Tuesday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 18, 21, 28. Sindhu Tolani (July 19, 1983 ,Mumbai), has been a Fair & Lovely cream model girl as well as a successful actress. She started her career with the Telugu movie Aithe. She shot to fame at the age of 20, at her debut in the Tamil movie Sullan with Dhanush directed by Ramana, the film went on to be a major blockbuster. Another hit followed in Manmadhan with Silambarasan. Since then she has appeared in many Hindi and Telugu movies. Hindi cinema goers will relish her acting in 2012. |
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