Threading the divine
Namita Jaspal, a heritage conservator, who got an opportunity to restore a dress worn by sixth Sikh Guru Hargobind, shares how it has been the biggest challenge of her life
Parbina Rashid

Namita and her team restoring the heritage chola
past present: Namita and her team restoring the heritage chola

A stitch in time, sometimes, is not enough to save nine. It, in fact, has the opposite effect. Especially if the cloth happens to be some 400 years old and the needle belongs to an amateur. Namita Jaspal, a heritage conservator, has learnt it first hand when she got an opportunity to restore a dress worn by sixth Sikh Guru Hargobind.

The call to preserve the dress, revered by millions of Sikhs, reached Namita when she was least expecting a project of such magnitude. The project was the endeavour of a group of NRIs, headed by the person in charge of Gurdwara Chola Sahib in village Ghudaani Kalan, near Ludhiana. Historical, because this is the dress Guru Hargobind wore when he came out of imprisonment at the Gwalior Fort. As the story goes, 52 prisoners who held on to his chola as he came out of the fort were also given freedom.

The chola before and after restoration
The chola before and after restoration

"Preserving the chola worn by the Guru, which is now part of the memorabilia at Gurdwara Shri Chola Sahib, has been my biggest challenge so far," says Namita who has just completed the job to her satisfaction and to the ones who entrusted the responsibility to her. It was challenging because she was handling a dress which is steeped in religious sentiment. It was also a dress which had borne the brunt of time and bad handling.

"The fabric of the chola had, over the centuries, lost its strength and flexibility. The robe is striped and there are loosely-woven stripes that alternate with thicker ones. Most of the thin and light-coloured stripes were either torn or completely lost," she explains.

There were attempts at restoration earlier, but they failed. "Most portions were gathered and sewn in an attempt to reduce further damage, but that only led to the disfiguration of the garment," says Namita.

So, all the old sewn restoration had to be removed before Namita could start her conservation work. "It was a divine feeling to be able to touch the chola, which was worn by a revered Guru. We had many people approaching my team with the request to be allowed to touch it once. We had to be strict so that no further damage was done to the robe," she says.

For Namita, who is married into a Sikh family in Chandigarh, it was easy to identify with the religious sentiment that ran high. "Though I am not a born Sikh, I am married to one and I have attended a school which was run by a Gurdwara in Delhi," she says.

Namita has been freelancing as a heritage conservator since 2006 and has handled some prestigious projects like the Archaeological Museum at Sanghol, near Ludhiana, Firoz Shah War Memorial at Ferozepur, besides documenting more than 100 historical sites near Pushkar and restoration of paintings as well as manuscripts that belong to private collectors.

What Namita enjoys about her job is the challenges this profession, which is a male preserve, throws at her. "This is a profession dominated mostly by architects and men. If you happen to be a woman and that too a non-architect like me, government officials do not take you seriously."

But that's a minor hiccup and Namita does not mind facing it. For all she knows, the reward could come in the form of divine projects like the chola of the great Guru!

parbina@tribunemail.com

A legend comes calling
Artist Akbar Padamsee, Padma Bhushan awardee and a contemporary of MF Husain, will interact with Chandigarh art lovers on September 9

The Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi brings to the city the legendary artist Akbar Padamsee. This is for the first time Padamsee will be in the city to interact with art lovers and present his art works in a slide show.

Padma Bhushan awardee and a contemporary of MF Husain, Padamsee is the founder member of the Progressive Artists Group which was formed after Independence. FN Souza, SH Raza, Husain and Krishen Khanna are some of the other prominent members of the group.

Born in Mumbai in 1928, Padamsee received his art education from Sir JJ School of Art and went to live and work in France in 1951. In 1952, he was awarded a prize by Andre Breton, known as the Pope of Surrealism, on behalf of the Journale d'art.

Though widely spoken of as a modernist, Padamsee continues to resist easy categorisation. Throughout his illustrious career spanning six decades, he has remained fiercely experimental and individualistic. Padamsee's artistic oeuvre is a formal exploration of a few chosen genres-- prophets, heads, couples, still-life, grey works, metascapes, mirror-images and across a multitude of media - oil painting, plastic emulsion, water colour, sculpture, printmaking, computer graphics and photography.

Among his achievements include a gold medal from the Lalit Kala Akademi 1962, a fellowship from the JD Rockefeller Foundation in 1965, an artist-in-residence by Stout State University, Wisconsin, Kalidas Samman by the Government of Madhya Pradesh in 1997, Lalit Kala Ratna Puraskar in 2004, the Dayawati Modi Award in 2007, Kailash Lalit Kala award in the year 2010 and Padma Bhushan by Government of India in 2010.

He has held many solo exhibitions, including one at Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art, Canada in 1967, a retrospective by the Art Heritage Gallery, in Mumbai and New Delhi in 1980

He has a deep and abiding interest in Sanskrit texts, a glimpse of which finds resonance in his statement on sun-moon metascapes of the mid seventies. In his own words, "In the introductory stanzas of Kalidasa's Abhijnanashakuntalam he describes the sun and the moon as the controllers on time — ye dve kal vighattah, and water as a source of all seeds — sarva beej prakriti. I would never have thought of painting the sun and the moon together if it were not for this. I felt I could use the elements —water, earth, sky — without referring to any particular landscape — a metaphysical landscape".

Padamsee lives and works in Mumbai.

On September 9 at the Government Museum & Art Gallery-10

The perfect script
Pankaj Roy from the Film and Television Institute of India, in Chandigarh, talks about an upcoming course in film-making
Vasudha Gupta

The camera is stable. It has diffused shots. Two children are playing in the house. A young girl steps in to scold the children. The girl approaches the grandmother. Dekho dadi aapke liye kya aaya hai. And soon there is clarity for dadi and the viewers — the film is called Nazar and it promotes the idea of eye donation.

Made by students of the Institute of Moving Images (IMI), it is a reflection of what they are taught in the various courses offered by the institute.

"It's not an unknown thought that the film industry in India is booming," shares Pankaj Roy, Director of the IMI and a member of the Association of Motion Pictures and Television Programme Producers, Mumbai. "It is disheartening to watch the talented youth going blank in front and behind the camera," he says.

Watching the youth of Punjab, with a huge backing from their families not being able to perform in the film industry, motivated the graduates of Film and Television Institute of India to provide hands-on training to film-making enthusiasts. "Cinema is not only about glamour. No one will ever tell you that Sonam Kapoor and Hritthik Roshan struggled as assistant director before they forayed into films," he shares. Yes, technical know-how in cinema is important.

IMI, the five-year-old institute will be offering a one-and-a-half month course starting September 18 at the British School, Chandigarh. "It's vital to comprehend the language of cinema, create words and make sentences," he shares. The course will have bigwigs of the film industry sharing the intricacies of cinema with the students.

Another film focuses on female infanticide. Wrapped up in a red cloth, a new-born baby girl, born to a villager, is unapologetically dumped in boiling milk. "Our films are nothing but the attitude of students towards life," he justifies on being asked why film-makers were inclined towards serious cinema.

Loosening up the strings a bit, he starts talking about his upcoming movie — Ander Ki Baat. Based on a story by Ruskin Bond, he is looking forward to the movie taking shape. "The songs have been recorded and the film will be ready for release in six months," he shares. A friendly tale of a child with a ghost, the story will build the foundation for his other human relationship ideas. "My future films will be my stories," he adds. Pankaj has several feathers in his cap, another being assisting Buddhadeb Dasgupta in four international award winning feature films. "One thing that I learnt from him is that cinema cannot be learnt inside four walls," he shares.

With Mumbai still enjoying the limelight in terms of film-making, he speaks about the regional cinema. "Cinema has to be appreciated. Till the time people don't learn to appreciate art, cinema will remain in Mumbai," he says.

The course will also teach the students 10 commandments of film-making. "Till the time you cannot be a good person, you can't be a good film-maker," he smiles. If the thought of a short course takes you a bit closer to your dreams, wait till December till the institute launches the full-fledged diploma course in film-making!

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Her image
Miss Earth 2010 Nicole Faria feels imperfections add to one's uniqueness
Minna Zutshi

The beauty business is fine till it gets too intrusive to let you be what you are. Miss Earth 2010 Nicole Faria is not the one to give thumbs-up to assembly-line production of beauty. So, it's a big 'no' to photoshopped images, even if they make her the prettiest woman. "I'm quite happy and comfortable with myself. I don't strive for any unrealistic perfection," she says.

"I believe that our little imperfections add to our uniqueness and make us unforgettable."

Don't the airbrushed images of models promote an ideal that's far removed from reality? A pretty model flaunting her porcelain skin and wispy waist may actually be more a photshop wonder than a woman who's breathtakingly beautiful. Nicole agrees that beauty is increasingly becoming technology driven. But it's not worrisome, she feels.

"At the end of the day a model should know who she is. Any tinkering with her photo is not going to change her, for better or worse," she tells us.

"Sometimes, fashion designers want the models to sport a certain look. I was shades darker on the cover of Elle magazine. But that's all right," says the model, who's a huge fan of Oprah Winfrey.

Incidentally, Nicole's parents run a finishing school. Her dad is a motivational speaker and she has been attending his classes. "My dad's coaching was a big help during my preparations for Miss Earth contest," she says.

Her graduation in psychology has helped her understand the beauty business better, she adds.

The 'psychologist' Nicole's take: "It's important to look good even if you're not a celebrity. Being presentable is an asset. It revs up that feel-good factor."

She would love to act in Bollywood films, provided they are interesting enough for her. What's her definition of 'interesting films', we ask. "Any film that I would like to watch!"

Nicole was in Ludhiana for the launch of gold jewellery at Orra.

Brush with mythology
As the Vedas, Dhammapada and Gita get translated into art, we get in touch with the artist who has created these works
Vasudha Gupta

Art is one form of expression that really has no boundaries. Apart from art students, inclined towards paints and brushes, there is Manasvi Rasgotra, an MBA and a marketing manager in a leading food and beverage firm, whose love for art has taken him places. With his work displayed at Bistro Flamme Bois, he is more than excited about bringing his work to Chandigarh.

An accidental tryst with art, Manavsi was never really sure how far it would go for him. "I basically had an American client, who wanted to pick up some art for her home. I offered to make something for her," he says. That was one day and today, all his works have avid followers. Five years into professional exhibits internationally and nationally, his works are a brighter versions of the subdued meaning of the Indian scriptures. "It was after I made Ganesha for my client that I became serious about it," he shares.

Apart from full-fledged paintings, he also made a calendar of his art and one remains a cherished possession. "Dalai Lama blessed one of my paintings and autographed it for me," he shares. Studying the meanings out of meanings, he has a new version of each philosophy of Buddha. "Based on his philosophy that he never wanted to be worshipped, I refrain from painting Buddha's face," he informs. Symbolising Buddha through the chakra below the Bodhi tree, with a tiger and a fawn, he wants to advocate Buddha's theory of universal teachings. Having also studied all 1,000 forms of Lord Ganesha, he is an expert in talking about them according to the definition of their specific names. "It is all about representing Ganesha in varied forms," he shares. Leave aside the average size of a canvas; he is already working on a 100-ft painting encapsulating the hidden meanings of Gita.

"The younger generation does not relate to the values and teachings of Gita. But in today's day and age of tension, stress and competitition, there is nothing more relevant than the Gita," he shares. Also an avid collector of books, it was his passion for reading that taught him the art of reading between the lines. One of those few people keen to propagate the philosophies of life, he is also occupied in taking batches of art students for exhibitions, where he describes the inspiration and meaning of paintings. "Art is the soul of human life and its connection with the surroundings. It is an accumulation of heritage you imbibe and tend to respect in any form," he says. So, if you are one of those who envy all those sipping coffee and tea while admiring their favourite painters, be sure to visit Flemme Bois and savour food and art!

(On till September 30)

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Subtle and beautiful
Sabia Talwar

Jatin Kapoor with models
Jatin Kapoor with models

Are you getting married and worried about how will you look on your D-day? Does the idea of wearing all that cakey make-up gives you a horrific feeling?

Relax, because the Lakme Studio which unveiled the bridal trends for the year 2011 believes in keeping make-up minimalist and natural.

Jatin Kapoor, the bridal expert who has been working with Lakme Studio for seven years now, talks about the latest concepts for dressing up the Punjabi brides that include make-up, hair style and draping of the lehenga. "Nowadays the brides restrain from getting a camouflaged make-up. It has to be kept natural and the one which enhances their features." He adds, "The bride should look like her real-self and the make-up should be used to do away with the flaws."

A smoky look for the eyes, rosy cheeks, lots of kohl and mascara, a subtle lipper with lots of gloss and a little bit of glitters are in for a bride this season. As for the hair where the head gear has to be fixed, big buns is the most elegant option with hair accessories that gel along with the lehenga or suit.

Smiles Jatin, "The 70's look is here to stay. Fresh flowers can be put on the hair for the reception."

How can we forget to ask about the nails? "Nail paints like blood reds and maroonish reds must be applied. Nail art and extensions can also be experimented with," suggests Jatin. So here we wait for a bride who is comfortable with her looks.

Art of make-up

n Make-up can be used on any kind of skin and at any age.
n Young girls should use less of make-up as it is harmful for the skin. Let your skin breathe.
n For young girls, loads of kohl, mascara, blusher and a gloss is more than enough.
n Get cleansing, toning and moisturising done regularly.

Trendsetter
High on retro

Kiran Bajwa
CUT above: Kiran Bajwa

When it comes to the meaning of style and fashion, there are very few who go truly global. Meet Kiran Bajwa, a young style file studying German in Panjab University, a true representation of hi-street fashion.

Your sense of style is…

Vintage. I have always been a fan of vintage cuts, styles and concepts in dressing.

Latest addition in your wardrobe...

More than just being a

piece of garment, my mother's long dress is my latest fetish.

Brand freak or street junkie?

I would say both. It totally depends upon knowing what you can carry off. Picking it from anywhere should not make a difference.

Choose a look: sporty, glamorous or chic

Defiantly chic

My style icon would be…

Marilyn Monroe. She was a true diva and epitomised style, fashion and class all in one.

So who's the worst dressed celebrity around?

Both Miley Cyrus and Aishwarya Rai are obsessed with brands and looking perfect, to the extent of going over board with it and end up look like wax dolls.

One fashion trend you just don't understand…

Women dressing like men. A woman's true identity should remain feminine.

Your take on accessories…

Less is more. Wearing modesty as an ornament outshines everything else.

One thing that boosts your confidence

Thinking positive, looking polished and being complimented are few of the things that totally take confidence to the sky.

(As told to Vasudha Gupta)

If you think you fit in the profile, get in touch with us at lifestyletribune@gmail.com. We'll sift the best from the rest.

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Change your attitude
Simmi Waraich

I am a 27 year old man. I live with my mother and sister. My father who had a business of renovating and reselling houses died recently. Though there are no financial problems, my mother remains quite upset and does not like me going out late. On occasions, I have drunk excessively and come home late. She checks my cellphone, my sister reads my messages and as a result we are always fighting. The atmosphere at home is very tense. I also get very anxious suddenly which lasts 20-30 minutes and cannot sleep at night. I hate being at home.

— Himesh, Chandigarh

I appreciate your writing in and talking about all this. It's not easy to do that and it shows that you want the situation to change. First, if something is not working, change it. For instance, instead of reacting in the same way, change how you react. Ask yourself if it is that important? Usually it is not. Do talk to your mother and sister. That you would like your privacy but also offer something from your side--that you will return home before 11.30 pm or so. If you can lock a door and come in, do that but limit it to once a week. If you have a tendency to drink in excess, get counselling and maybe medicine for that. Set yourself some goals, like I will drive home only after one drink or else I'll have a sober friend drop me home. Learn to say 'No' to friends once in a while. For each small step, give yourself a pat on the back for achieving it. If you slip, get up and start again. Look, its' been a shock for all of you with your father dying suddenly. Try and see your mother's point of view and even if you do not agree with it, just explain why you don't agree but remember no shouting or fighting. It can be said politely. If you are getting these anxiety attacks, see a doctor, rule out any medical problem and see a psychiatrist if all else is okay. Losing a parent can be difficult and can bring on death anxiety in different forms in all of us.

My son is in Class IX. He is average in studies but very slow in writing. He likes cycling and computers and has become very stubborn lately. He has tuition for two-and-a-half hours a day but still is not able to finish his class work.

— Parkash, Ambala

Well, you need to get him evaluated for dysgraphia which is a problem with writing specifically. This can be done privately or a government hospital from where you can get a certificate too for school exams. Also, you need to be in regular touch with his school teachers and counsellor to see how you all can help him. If he is slow in writing, the teacher can ensure he writes the important points first. If one or two things are not done, it's okay. Plan small goals with the teachers and counsellor and reward him for attaining them. Too much tuition may not help and may make him more stubborn. Take his point of view into consideration and make a time table-if it does not help, change the plan again after discussion with him the following week. See a child psychologist or psychiatrist who has the requisite training and not just a degree of psychology.

(Dr Waraich is a Chandigarh-based consultant psychiatrist. Shoot your problems to lifestyletribune@gmail.com or write to Troubleshooter, Life+Style, The Tribune, Sector 29, Chandigarh)

Slim without gym? Here's how

Then have an active social life, says a new study. Scientists from Ohio State University found that socialising and meeting with friends aid weight loss by converting energy-storing white fat into energy-burning brown fat.

Lead researcher Dr. Matthew J. During and his colleagues used mice to study the effects, a socially and physically engaging environment has on weight loss and obesity. They found that mice in an 'enriched' environment with friends and stress expend more energy and lose weight even as they eat more.

They said that the animals' abdominal fat decreased by 50 per cent after four weeks in the enriched environment. Scientists believe the same process probably occurs in humans. "I'm still amazed at the degree of fat loss that occurs. The amount that comes off is far more than you would get with a treadmill," said During. — ANI

MASTER CHEF
Eat like the Japanese
Ramit Kohli

Tempura is, in many ways, an archetypal Japanese food. All the essential qualities of Japanese cuisine are reflected in its preparation- the use of fresh ingredients, the artful presentation, and the perfection of technique by a skilled chef. The result is one of the triumphs of Japanese cooking -- a fried food that is light and fresh-tasting rather than heavy and greasy. It's a cooking style in which the essence of the ingredient itself completely defines the taste.

It comes as a surprise to most foreigners to learn that tempura was not originally a Japanese dish; it actually owes its origins to the visiting Portuguese missionaries of the sixteenth century. But tempura, like many imported ideas, gradually adapted itself to Japanese needs and tastes. By the late nineteenth century tempura was a popular fast food in Tokyo, sold from sidewalk stalls and roaming pushcarts, and today's modern tempura (made by deep-frying vegetables, fish and shellfish) is no longer a foreign food at all, but a completely Japanese cuisine.

Vegetable Tempura

Crispy fried vegetables tossed with soya chilli sauce
Portions: 2

Ingredients
10 gm slice carrot
15 gm potato French fry
20 gms cauliflower florets
20 gms broccoli
15 gms asparagus
Salt to taste
5 gms Fresh red chilli (chopped)
5 ml oyster sauce
3 ml dark soya sauce
2 gms dried red chilli paste
5 gmssugar breakfast
2 leaves makroot leaves
2 gms basil leaves
8 gms spring onion dices
10 gms corn flour
3 gms black pepper powder
Refined oil for frying
5 gms chopped garlic
10 gms refined flour
3 gmshoney (1 table spoon)
3 ml dark soya sauce

Method
Make batter of refined flour, cornflour, salt, white pepper powder, MSG, 1 tea spoon breakfast sugar, oil and water and mix well. The batter should be thick).

Separately boil cauliflower, broccoli and keep aside to cool it. Pour all vegetables in the batter and deep fry in hot oil till crispy and golden brown in colour.

Now, to make the sauce, pour oil in a pan and add the chopped garlic, oyster sauce, chopped red chilli, honey, soya sauce, crushed black pepper and add one tea spoon corn flour diluted in water.

Now, add the fried vegetables and add spring onion dices and serve hot.

(Ramit is a sous chef at Taj, Chandigarh)

star track
Problem of plenty

A still from Sahib, Biwi Aur Gangster
Three in one: A still from Sahib, Biwi Aur Gangster

People love to complicate matters. Keeping love simple never worked! Love stories with three or more characters are becoming the trend these days. Here are some upcoming movies that involve more than two people in love.

Gangster meets girl
Sahib, Biwi, Aur Gangster

The film is set in North India and stars Mahie Gill, Jimmy Shergill, and Randeep Hooda. Mahie and Jimmy are married and she has a passionate affair with Randeep (the gangster). The film is directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia and the promos are sizzling. Mahie is having a ball playing an insatiable bombshell!

Between brothers
Mere Brother Ki Dulhan

Imran and Ali are brothers. Imran sets out to look for a suitable bride for his brother. He finds Katrina and her brother agrees to marry her. However, Katrina and Imran fall in love with each other so they make an ingenious plan. They find a girl for Ali. It is a Yash Raj film so it will have a happy ending.

Love rocks
Rock Star

Nargis Fakhri and Ranbir Kapoor's on and off-screen romance has been talked about enough. Aditi Rao Hydari plays a journalist in the movie and her character has been kept under wraps so far. She becomes a broken-hearted Ranbir's confidante and support. We are looking forward to how this triangle will unravel.

Sizzling mess
The Dirty Picture

Voluptuous vixen Vidya (Silk Smitha) is the object of desire for Naseeruddin Shah and Tusshar Kapoor. Most men cannot resist her. Emraan Hashmi plays a journalist and he cannot stand her. Something will definitely brew between them in the movie. Milan Luthria's sizzling mess will be unveiled on December 2.

In love and war…
Hum Tum Aur Shabana

Minissha Lamba plays Shabana and Tusshar Kapoor and Shreyas Talpade vie for her attention. Sexy model Pia Trivedi is also there in the movie. The romantic comedy is directed by Sagar Bellary of Bheja Fry fame.

Under wraps
Barfee

Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra are autistic and they are having an affair with each other. We are guessing Ileana D'cruz is Ranbir's wife but not much is known about her character in the Anurag Basu film. — HRM

Alien beauty

Hollywood heartthrob Robert Pattinson says his girlfriend and Twilight co-star Kristen Stewart looks like an alien in the forthcoming film Breaking Dawn.

The 25-year-old actor says Stewart, who plays Bella Swan in the vampire franchise, looks thin and ghastly in the pregnancy scenes in the film, a website reported.

"There are scenes where Bella looks like an alien. When the baby eats her from inside, she looks so thin and ghastly. "Kristen had to wear this horrible makeup and when I'd see her come on set, I'd ask the crew, 'Are you sure we're filming Twilight? Isn't it supposed to be harmless and PG-13?'," he said.

A still from Ladies Vs. Ricky Bahl
Two good: A still from Ladies Vs. Ricky Bahl

Despite Pattinson's concern, Stewart recently said she "loves" playing a vampire. "I love being a vampire. I was 17 when I read Twilight, and at the time it was so perfect for me," she said. — PTI

Fourth attempt
Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl

Conman Ranveer Singh romances (actually pretends to romance) Parineeti Chopra, Dipannita Sharma, and Aditi Sharma before he meets his match in the gorgeous and irresistible Anushka Sharma.

No Twitter and Facebook for Katrina

You must have read enough about Katrina Kaif and her upcoming film, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan. Read on to know more about her movie with Salman Khan, her sense of style, and her take on social networking sites.

Katrina Kaif
Net loss: Katrina Kaif

Style sense

I like wearing casual and comfortable clothes like jeans and t-shirts when I am not shooting. I dress very normally and my family always pulls me up for that!

Ek Tha Tiger

I am really excited and nervous about working on this one. Salman and I get along well so that is good. Kabir and I shared a good equation and connection during New York and became friends. He had told me about this film after New York released and now we are making it. If you get along well with somebody, then you want to work with that person.

Missed movies

I am not doing Ayan Mukerji's movie with Ranbir Kapoor but I do not think it is right to talk about it. That is because it now belongs to someone else. For the last time, I am not doing Dhoom 3, either!

Hit record

I don't really count the number of movies I have done and the number of hits I have had. I am a big fan of Hema Malini (ji) and if my record is anywhere close to hers then I will feel really honoured.

Social networking

I am neither on Twitter nor on Facebook and I don't even want to be. I am sure it is fun and works for people who are into social networking. I cannot really put myself out there with my thoughts and opinions. I am quite shy.

When Anurag meets Michael
People are following trends instead of making films: Anurag

Anurag Kashyap
Blunt cut: Anurag Kashyap

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap's recent film That Girl In Yellow Boots got glowing reviews but didn't sparkle as much at the box office. Anyways, there is nothing stopping this maverick filmmaker from making only those films which he believes in.

He has come a long way since his struggling days and has established himself in India and abroad. Almost all his films are acclaimed at international festivals. He tasted commercial success with Dev D and Udaan. He talks about Michael, his latest venture.

Michael and me

The script made me want to produce it. I always go by the script and Michael was a story which no one has heard of before. It is very different as it shows a different life and culture. The moment I heard the story, I knew I was going to produce it. Ribhu Dasgupta, the director of the film, wrote the story three years ago but we met only last year and decided to work together. Ribhu wanted to shoot the film in the monsoons so we shot it last year. He is a genius director and I am amazed to see what talent we have in this industry.

Story of a cop

Michael is a character driven psychological thriller set in the rainy and noisy backdrop of Kolkata. It is a father-son story. An ex- cop who got wrongly dispelled from his duty is caught in a complex web of impending insecurities.

Naseer- an inspiration

That Girl In Yellow Boot was the first film where I worked with him and he is an inspiration to me. I have been watching his films since my school days. As an actor when he comes on to the sets, the whole atmosphere changes. He lends a pure energy to the sets which is great. I have had an unspoken relationship with Naseerji since years.

Support system

Naseerji has always supported me. When I didn't have money and even when I had money he has come all out to support - whether it's a one-day shoot like in That Girl In Yellow Boots or a whole film like Michael. He is always very supportive, encouraging, and even critical. In Michael, he plays the protagonist. The role is about the trials and tribulations of a tainted cop.

Reality of India

There is a difference between making films and making hit films. I concentrate on making films: films which I like and stories that can be told. Here, mostly people want to make hit films. After Ghajini and Wanted's success, everybody is making remakes of South films. It's more about following trends than making films.

Michael will be showcased at the Toronto Film Festival this month and will release in India in October.

chatter box
Out of action

Sara Khan Sara Khan fell ill few months ago and was diagnosed with stomach infection and kidney stone. Recently, she had yet another kidney aliment and had to be operated. She got a kidney stone surgery in a Mira Road hospital and currently is recuperating at home. The shooting of her show Zee TV's Ram Milaayi Jodi has gone for a toss but as the TRPs are decent, the channel and production house don't mind altering the story a bit for a few days.

retired hurt: Sara Khan

No time to waste

Delnaazz Delnaazz might be going through a divorce process but she isn't letting that stop her from living life. Her dad too passed away recently so she has moved in with her mother and also helping her bhabhi, Tanaaz who is expecting second time around. Delnaazz's brother is abroad for his dance project currently. Delnaazz is also enjoying hosting a food show and meeting new celebs on her show.

tied up: Delnaazz

Too difficult to handle

Tina Dutta now is synonymous with being a tantrum queen. She might look petite and sweet but the production house of her show Colors' Uttaran is fed up with her tantrums. She plays docile and adjusting Ichcha but there have been news of her not coming on the sets on time, not being ready on time, and not liking her outfits. Watch out Tina, they say there is no smoke without fire but here it seems the fire is quite visible as is the smoke.

Aishwarya The beauty and the pet

Aishwarya Sakhuja aka Toasty in Sony's Saas Bina Sasural loves animals and her canine especially. She has a cute dog named Billo and Aishwarya loves playing with Billo more often than not. She claims Billo totally unwinds her and refreshes her mind. Aishwarya doesn't only take care of her dog but many stray animals too by ensuring they are immunized and get proper food too. Isn't that sweet?
pet theory: Aishwarya

Sriti Jha Another love story

UTV might have chucked the remake of Meti Oli but now they are all geared up to launch a new show on a popular channel. The new show will be called Amar Prem and will star Karnvir Bohra aka Prem of Kasautii Zindagii Kay and Sriti Jha who appeared in Rakt Sambhandh and Jiya Jale. The show will be based on the love story of a middle-class girl and a rich boy who get married but later she learns that he is mentally unstable.

bags full: Sriti Jha

On shaky ground

Though Sab TV's Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah might be getting cool TRPs, there is trouble on the show as the directors on the show are not satisfied with the working environment and the production house. Some directors have quit. Production house have to handle well in order to keep the show running smoothly.

The ad boy

Rithvik Dhanjani
MODEL MOVES: Rithvik Dhanjani

Model turned actor Rithvik Dhanjani aka Jeh of Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani, is loving his new Idea 3G ad that has got him a lot of visibility. He plays a dude who takes a girl out for a spin when another guy gives her a Nokia phone and she ends up playing video games on the 3G connection on their date. Rithvik is happy as he got great feedback for the ad and he shares the experience of doing this ad and many others with us.

"The experience of doing the idea 3G ad was great as we shot for two days in Goa in over 10 locations. I love doing ads as they work at a pace better than films and of course television. The ad was shot by Chrome ad agency with whom I shot my first Airtel ad too. So it has been a long and fruitful association. I love working with them."

Talking about his various other ads, he says, "My first ad was Airtel Fifa 2010 ad and I have done many others like Jaquar, Lays, Cadbury dairy milk, Hero Honda too. I even shot for Maruti A star but I don't know if it would be released."

Working with stars is not new for Rithvik, who has shot with actor Saif and India's cricket captain Dhoni. "It was awesome to shoot with them. I shot the Lays World Cup 2011 ad with them where Saif says who will win the world cup from a balcony and then I come in the shot. I hardly interacted with Saif but I met Dhoni and he is so cool and humble. It felt wonderful to meet and chat with him briefly."

Though he has done the idea 3G ad which is Abhishek Bachchan's baby, yet Rithvik has his own opinions of the ads. "I loved the initial ads of what an idea sirji! But the latter ones weren't that impressive. The latest one with the 3G and population concept though is cool. I simply loved it. Though I am not in the ad, my Idea 3G ad is an extension of the same, so I feel a part of it," smiles Rithvik.

Other than his television show, Rithvik is also looking forward to a film about to be released soon. — HRM

Finally, Aamir on tube

While Sanjay Dutt is all set to host Bigg Boss 5, we now hear that superstar Aamir Khan is all set to take the plunge into the world of reality television. The actor has agreed to host an upcoming reality show though the channel and other details are not yet revealed.

A source states, "Aamir has agreed to host a reality show that is written by his friend Satyajeet Bhatkal, who is the man behind the making of Lagaan and had directed the film Zokkomon starring Darsheel Safary, Majari Fadnis and others. Aamir had gone out of his way to promote Zokkomon during its release so it does not really come as a surprise that Aamir has agreed to do this show. The actor is expected to start shooting for the show as soon as he completes Reema Katgi's film."

Well, we are sure Aamir fans are looking forward to this show. It remains to be seen if Aamir proves to be as successful as other big stars. — HRM

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Take proper care of your diet. Love life will be exciting. Friend of same sex may be helpful to you. Financial matters may come under strain. Singles could be on the lookout for a partner.
Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests.
Lucky colour: Yellow
Magic number: 56

TAURUS: Make good use of the quiet morning and you will be well prepared for the rest of the day. Personal relations may be neglected. Express your feelings and put your talents to good use. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success.
Lucky colour: Black
Magic number: 38

GEMINI: You may wish to break the routine of the day. A female co-worker could be jealous of your achievements. Rather than react to her jibes, be sensitive and you may make a good friend. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms in writing. Lucky colour: Red
Magic number: 40

CANCER: Your card gives you strength and strong vision. Communication over legal matters, travel plans can be held up. Relationships can lead to a misunderstanding. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 33

LEO: You will face difficulty in getting along with associates. Women: avoid gossiping. Work and professional responsibilities will place demands on your time. The day will run according to its own schedule. Tarot message: Be careful while handling issues involving property. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 44

VIRGO: Do not be in a hurry to get financial plans underway. You might be able to do yourself good with the help of influential people. You will eventually reap the benefits. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way.
Lucky colour: Beige
Magic number: 59

LIBRA: Today you are likely to spend money on astrology. Personal and business partnerships are blessed today. You might be introduced to some very important people.
Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power. Lucky colour: Teal
Magic number: 63

SCORPIO: The day starts with smiles and cheers. Friends are pleasant but not particularly significant. The temptation to take a long lunch should be avoided, as work is likely to become hectic later in the day. Tarot message: Take responsibility for your own action.
Lucky colour: Blue
Magic number: 26

SAGITTARIUS: An auspicious day for biz-folk. You may be fined for wrong entry. Activity and social interaction will do you a world of good. The energy of the day is suited to creative pursuits. Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action. Lucky colour: Violet
Magic number: 54

CAPRICORN: The married will enjoy a pleasantly romantic phase at home. The accent will be on personal and business partnerships. Even your rivals can be courted. Professional advice will be invaluable in this area. Tarot message: Don't reveal your plans to your competitors. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: Don't rush to make any hasty decisions regarding your family matters. Defer a short journey. Instead, get our and socialise. Home renovations or business plans can be reassessed with good outcomes assured.
Tarot message: Don't try to end the entire deadlock at one go. Lucky color: Grey. Magic number: 33

PISCES: Dispute over a small issue is possible at your work place. Teamwork is to your advantage. If you are applying for a promotion, talk to someone who can put a good word for you.
Tarot Message: You gain by being practical; don't be emotional.
Lucky color: Green
Magic Number: 48

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 8...

Number Eight is the manager. Strong, successful, ruled by Saturn, you will be ambitious, business-minded, practical, authoritative, successful, courageous, accomplished and organised. If expressed negatively: Tense, narrow, materialistic, forceful. You may take a commitment with responsibility and bravery.

Business: Planning is favoured, so put in the prep time and lay the foundation. Your willingness to get help and explore options gets an extra push, with high-powered energy coming your way.

Education: This is a very good period to broaden your horizons on a mental and spiritual level. You have a clear mind, so the opportunity to explore new areas are there for the taking. Family: Don't press an issue, especially with mother. Spending may go up a tad and is most likely due to practical demands, food, entertainment, travel and gift giving. A family discussion may go very well but you get better support.

Finance: Financial matters are average. You are passionately working for improvement on both sides. You will have sufficient gains through your job. Investment may also bring profits. Friendship: New friends appear to be in the offing too with Leo and Libra ranking highest for leading you to career success and other friends leading you to romantic enhancements.

Health: The youngsters might decide to go on a binge. Regular exercise and a proper diet will help you to feel more relaxed and fit. Love : You understand the importance of relationships very well and value your loved ones for who they are. General: A recent disappointment makes you hard and unyielding. The thought of opening your heart to someone simply terrifies you. Be gentle with a youngster who looks up to you. You may not realise it, but your opinion means a lot to them. If stress becomes too much to handle, scale back your schedule. Give yourself more time to rest and relax in the comfort of your home. Compatible signs: Taurus, Cancer. Lucky colours: Blue and lavender. Lucky days: Friday and Sunday. Lucky numbers: 7, 11, 14, 21, 22.

Asha Bhosle (September 8, 1933, Sangli, Mumbai) started in 1943 and has done playback singing for over 1000 Bollywood movies, sung over 12,000 songs. Nanhe Munne Bachche -Boot Polish (1954), gained popularity .O. P. Nayyar gave Asha Bhosle a big break in C.I.D. (1956). In 1966, Asha's performance in the duets from music director R D Burman's first successful movie, Teesri Manzil won popular acclaim. Piya Tu Ab To Aaja (Caravan), O Haseena Zulfon Wali (Teesri Manzil) and Yeh Mera Dil (Don) are her famous numbers. In Umrao Jaan (1981) and Ijaazat (1987), she sang traditional ghazals. Apart from singing and running her restaurant, Asha is also working on her autobiography. The seventh house of her horoscope does not support marital bliss in life. The number 8 provides her longevity like Dev Anand.





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