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How free are we?
The connotation of 'freedom' is far more than just being chained. So, while India is free in the literal sense there are evils that still shackle our country. Had that not been the case, we wouldn't have witnessed over a dozen scams! On this Independence Day, instead of doing the usual - asking celebrities the evils that need to be done away with - we ask youngsters what all India needs freedom from and the road to it.
The Road: There is a retirement age for every other profession in India except for leaders of the country, which is in fact the most important job. How can you expect 80-year-olds to run a country of over a billion people? There should be an age limit for politicians as well. Economic disparity is directly proportional to the education system and job opportunities in India. Education will empower people to earn their living, which in turn will help them earn money. — Harman Kaur, school teacher in Mohali
The Road: Voting for politicians who strongly support the Women Reservation Bill. We can't claim to be a modern society, wherein the bill is put on the table but never passed. Demonstrations by women all across India might help the cause just like the 'Slut Walk' helped raise the issue of eve-teasing. — Neha Dabar, class XII student, Delhi Public School
The Road: What brought an end to 200 years of slavery can even bring an end to a social evil like corruption. Anna Hazare's movement against corruption and for the Lokpal Bill is the only way out to teach corrupt politicians a lesson. Also, people of India have started taking corruption very lightly, how else do you think politicians here are gifted crores of rupees on their birthdays? The only way to scare away corrupt politicians is collective movement against corruption. — Venuka Gupta, B.Tech, SDDIET
College, Barwala
The Road: Punishing the corrupt in fast trials; filing in as many RTIs and PILs to expose corruption in government set-ups. Making and enforcing new laws that would make those in powerful positions more accountable to public. It's important for tax payers to know how there money is being used. — Maninder Singh, Class XI student, Paragon Senior Secondary School
The Road to freedom: Even after 64 years of independence, it's the caste of the person that decides his chances of getting a job. Reservations should be there to uplift the weaker sections of society, but that should depend on the economic condition of people and not the caste. For a meritorious student not being able to enroll in a premiere institute just because he belongs to the upper caste is extremely disheartening. What is important is to consider the financial background of the person and provide free education, in case one deserves it. — Satinder Singh Mavi, personal trainer
The Road: It can only be attained through the Anna Hazare way. Otherwise politicians will never pay heed to what the people of this country want. We need to unite, stand by Anna Hazare and force the government to pass the Lokpal Bill that should include even the Prime Minister in its ambit. India is still a developing country and although hundreds of crores of rupees are allocated for development, only a fraction percolates to the lowest level. It's time we take up the fight against corruption very seriously. — Anmol Sharma, second-year B.Tech student, Chitkara University
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United Colours of food
With this patriotic feeling, you can treat your taste buds at JW Marriott where Café @ JW, the multi-cuisine dining restaurant, is offering a special menu on the 64th Independence Day. Cuisines of Punjab, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Goa, Maharashtra, Delhi and MP will be a part of the menu. Try out the Chicken Chettinad from Tamil Nadu, Malabar parantha from Kerela or the fried Amritsari fish tikkas! Drop in during the dinner or lunch hours to enjoy the authentic Indian delicacies on August 15. Not only this, this food destination has come up with quiz contests to test your knowledge about India. The winners will get one night stay with complimentary breakfast. Black Magic, located at DT Mall IT Park also has great offers to make you not think of those extra pounds. Kava, the dining lounge, in sector-26 is not lagging behind in offering food connoisseurs a plethora of dishes. Milan Prabhat, chef, Kava what's in the store, "We are going to have a buffet including two vegetarian and two non-vegetarian starters, which includes tiranga paneer. It also includes main course dishes like macherjhol from Kolkata, Gujrati kadi, Goan fish curry, murg makani from Punjab, J&K's mutton rogan josh." And when it comes to desserts, nothing can get better on the Independence Day than a tricolour mousse. So go ahead enjoy the foodie Independence Day.
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I like flirting with women: Ranveer
Ranveer Singh has become the most talked about newcomer in recent times. With a smashing and charismatic debut in Band Baaja Baaraat, he has become part of everybody's wish list. His second film will be crucial for his career. He talks about his image, flirty nature, Anushka Sharma, and more. Has success hit you too fast? (Smiles) No. Band Baaja Baaraat started doing well from the second week by word-of-mouth publicity where audiences liked the movie and started spreading the word. Good reviews helped us. Also, it was Yash Raj Film. The success has not changed me as a person. What do you think about your image? I don't care about my personal image. I want to work in this industry and make my mark as an actor. So my only aim is acting and working hard. I am still a newcomer and very raw. I need to learn a lot. I think my nature has created so much buzz but again I want to prove myself as an actor. Flirty image (Laughs) I think flirty ness is there in every human being and yes, I am a flirt by nature. There are so many pretty women in the industry and everywhere else that I can't help myself. I like women and it's natural for me to be attracted to them. On Anushka Sharma She is a good friend actually. She is my first co-star and very helpful. She is a brilliant actor and she is doing well too. She is better than me in terms of acting and looks, too. Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl It's an amazing film where I play a guy who has so much to do in his life. But you know I can't speak much about the film right now. There are so many beautiful women in the film that audiences will definitely come to watch it. What about 2 States? Rumours spread very fast in the industry but I am not talking about any film except for Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl. Future projects… I have been flooded with film offers. If I take them up, I will be busy for the next three years. I want to be choosy about my films.
—HRM
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Shut wide open
Disney has shut down production of Johnny Depp starrer The Lone Ranger, its ambitious retelling of the classic western.
The abrupt move to kill a project that was set to begin shooting in the fall comes amid clashes with producer Jerry Bruckheimer over the budget for the project, which was scheduled to be released in December 2012, a publication said. Lone Ranger was heralded by Disney as a potential franchise starring the bankable Depp as Tonto and Armie Hammer as the Lone Ranger. Gore Verbinski, director of the first three Pirates of the Caribbean films, was set to helm. The move is a direct blow to Bruckheimer, who has produced the four mega-hit Pirates films for Disney. It also raises questions about whether Depp will agree to reprise his starring role in another Pirates film, which is a priority for the studio. "Gore doesn't want to budge for what he thinks a movie like this needs," a source said. One concern of the studio, is that even though Depp is a big star, the project is western, and the genre is having some dark days, particularly in light of the recent poor showing of Cowboys & Aliens. "The fact that it's a Western is a definite concern," the source added. The project heated up later last year when Verbinski came on board as director, and soon Hammer, riding high from his turn as the Winklevoss twins in The Social Network, signed on to play the Ranger. Ranger was casting up and was all set to go on floors in October. —PTI
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My fair lady
The Princess Diaries star Anne Hathaway says she is a big fan of Kate Middleton's style - because she "dresses like a lady". The 28-year-old actor, who played the role of a princess in a handful of movies, insists being more inspired by real-life royalty, reported a magazine.
"Can I tell you how grateful I am to Kate Middleton? Because she is such an advocate for dressing like a lady," she said. The Devil Wears Prada star also confessed that the Duchess of Cambridge's style inspired her to revamp her own wardrobe. "I think for a few years that slightly dirty look was adopted by Hollywood -- you know, the stringy hair, homeless thing. And I really tried. I was like, 'Ok, I'm going to give that a go.' But it doesn't suit me, and I don't suit it. I always looked kind of chubby," she added. Hathaway credits the 29-year-old Duchess of Cambridge for proving that skin isn't always in. "I'm just very grateful to Kate Middleton for making looking appropriate really fun again. So right now my fashion choices are all about Kate Middleton," said Hathaway.
— PTI
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From vampires to clothes
Twilight star Robert Pattinson wants to have his own clothing line, says co-actor Kellan Lutz, who is set to launch his range this fall. Lutz, 26, who plays the role of Emmet Cullen in the vampire series, appreciates the way Pattinson, 25, dresses up and thinks that he should have his own line soon, reported a magazine.
"Rob and I were talking about doing clothing lines, and he found out I was doing one and was like 'I should do one. He wants to do one -- he's always so hipster," Lutz said. Lutz also added that they conceptually called the line Rags by Rob, which is fitting since Pattinson's own style could be described more or less as disheveled, with monotone V-neck T-shirts, worn-in jeans and flannel button-down shirts being his wardrobe staples. Talking about his own label he said he has been working hard, fine-tuning the details for his collection, Abbot+Main. "I'm very involved in the clothing line -- everything gets run through me. It's men's right now, but I have a women's line that starts this spring," he said. — PTI
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News about Zee's Pavitra Rishta lead hero Sushant Singh Rajput quitting became a daily fare but to add spice now we hear that after Sushant's final decision to quit this month end, his on screen heroine and real life girlfriend Ankita Lokhande aka Archana too plans to quit. The show supposedly will take a 20 year leap and neither of them are interested in playing mommy daddy to 20 year olds. Apparently Ankita was influenced by Sushant's decision to quit.
Backbone of problems
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Astro turf
ARIES: Your emotions can over-ride your good judgment in some situations. You need to allow kiss their individuality to grow into happy and well-adjustable adults. Problems for factory workers are indicated. Tarot Message: Take things one at a time instead of a pronged. Lucky colour: Deep Red. Magic number: 65.
TAURUS: Not a favourable day for setting out on a long journey. There are apt to be delays both on the road and on public transportation. Escaping into a good-book or a movie might give you some respite. Tarot Message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52. GEMINI: Good company is likely to figure prominently in today's activities. A new love affair might be domination you're every moment. Teenage girls will be at their charming best. Tarot Message: Dare to accomplish those tasks which normally take up a lot of time. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 32. CANCER: This is not the right day for attempts to complete property deals. Get your priorities right. An offer to move up the corporate ladder may be within your grasp. You may have to make a long journey which will be successful. Tarot Message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 28. LEO: You can bring dreams back into focus with the added benefit of your age and wisdom. You will be in the mood to meet people from different walks of life. Overseas visitor may be relaying on you. Tarot Message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Fuchsia. Magic number: 46. VIRGO: Indulging in idle talk will not satisfy. Check out the newspapers to find activities that appeal now. Students should spend plenty of time for studies. Short trips may have to be taken at very short time. Tarot Message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 58.
LIBRA: Beware! Someone may back-stab you. You will be surprised at the excellent reception you get. You are likely to have a lot a fun at work. You have an invention turn of mind when it comes to achieving your goals. Tarot Message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky colour: Metallic Grey. Magic number: 31. SCORPIO: A desire to beautify your twinge space could find you at the paint store perusing the latest colors or you might visit an art gallery to find laws to brighter up the atmosphere at home. Tarot Message: Feel good about yourself & prepare yourself for a mental battle. Lucky colour: Bottle Green. Magic number: 63. SAGITTARIUS: You have achieved most of your short term objectives today. You will find the congenial atmosphere at work. You could be suffering from digestive problems. Tarot Message: You may encounter some difficulties regarding finances. Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 27. CAPRICORN: Your resources can be boosted. It is a good time to look at real estate. This need not be a difficult day so long as you postpone major moves. Turn to member of your family if you need advice. Tarot Message: Take one step at a time and avoid being overanxious. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 36. AQUARIUS: Your card "Two of Pentacles" shine on love, money & sports. Stick to your schedule. Your conscience is likely to be pricked. Do not exercise, heavily. It is better to consult the physician or a trainer. Tarot Message: Remember never to fall for rash promises. Lucky color: Orange. Magic Number: 44. PISCES: There is a promise of better things in the offing. It is simply up to you to take hold of opportunities and make them yours. Be alert, an excellent time is ahead and reap rewards. Tarot Message: Do as many courses as you can to get ahead of others. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 51.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is August 15...
You are very lucky to be born on Independence Day, Your talent for bringing out the best in children, animals, and plants should be applauded. Unfortunately, too many people take these gifts for granted. You will team up with a romantic partner who knows what a gem you are. You are apt to have really strong attachments to home, family and domestic scene. The one and five equaling six, provide the sort of energy that makes you an excellent parent or teacher. Business: Slow down your pace of work -- despite exhortations to rush. You know things need to be done right the first time and should say so. Family: This may be one busy, slamming year that races by super fast and your pace is quickened to maintain it but sags near December only to rebound big time. Financially, a beneficial phase will begin and the period is favourable for consolidating your financial position. Friendship: Share your insights with pals. Fun, gatherings and catching up with 'old pals,' is likely. Compatible Signs: Pisces, Leo, Aries. Lucky colours: Misty Rose, Olive. Lucky Days: Tuesday. Lucky Numbers: 4, 11, 21, 24, 40.
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Freedom From: Economic disparity and old politicians
Freedom From: Sexist society
Freedom from: Corruption
Freedom from: Corruption and red-tapism
Freedom from: Caste system and reservation
Freedom From: Corruption
Just because Independence Day is a dry day doesn't mean there can be no parties. In lieu of the national holiday, city hotels and eating joints have come up with exciting offers so one can savour the meals and convert the holiday into a day of fun.
Taj Chandigarh is also coming up with an extravagant menu to celebrate the Independence Day. The celebrations will be at the coffee shop for dinner. Neeraj Chaudry, executive chef at Taj shares, "Dera, the restaurant will have cuisines from Lahore, Peshawar, Patiala and Amritsar. The idea is to recreate the tastes of Punjab, through an exotic buffet, as it used to be before partition." The delicacies include pakhtooni murg, Hyderabadi keema chawal and the unique thing is that all dishes will be prepared in olive oil, low on spices and even the desserts will be low on sugar. Also, Black Lotus, the Chinese restaurant, will have an 11 course menu specially prepared by a senior chef from Beijing. And, for dinner the coffee shop will have cuisines from world over and most of the dishes will exhibit the tri colours.
Work together, quit together
Nishant Malkani who was in the news for quitting his Zee show Ram Milaayi Jodi is not shooting these days- not because he has quit but due to a back injury. He is recuperating in at his home in Delhi as his spine is swollen and has been advised rest. Meanwhile, the channel is looking for a replacement for him. They have decided to wait for a while and see if he is able to work and has also begun searching for a replacement. Hasan Zaidi, Puru Chibber of Khhote Sikkey, Karan Wahi, Kinshuk Mahajan and Angad Hasija are some of the names being considered to play
Anukalp.
Raakhee (August 15,1947 Ranaghat, West Bengal) popularly known as Raakhee Gulzar after her marriage with lyricist-director Gulzar (Sampooran Singh Kalra) shares her great day with India as well as with you. She won three Filmfare Awards and one National Film Award, nominated 16 times (8 for Best Actress and 8 for Best Supporting Actress). Her first Hindi film, Jeevan Mrityu with Dharmendra in 1970, the film went on to become a big hit including its song Jhilmil Sitaron Ka Aangan Hoga. Some notable movies are Sharmilee, Tapasya, Kabhie Kabhie, Muqaddar Ka Sikander, Lawaaris, Karan Arjun and Border. Her last film was Shubho Mahurat in 2003 for which she won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress and she has since retired from the film industry.