Play mate
The cast and crew of Hai Mera Dil, a play which has been running for 33 years, share their incredible journey 
Mona

The stage is set again, and, the five-day Chandigarh Theatre Festival opened on Saturday with the 1066th performance of Hai Mera Dil. This ANK Group's production about a hypochondriac husband has enjoyed three decades of presence and has been staged in almost all corners of the world.

In Chandigarh, sans its director Dinesh Thakur, the cast and crew is upbeat about the play, 33 years on since its first show. A comedy, Hai Mera Dil, deals with the protagonist's delusion that he is going to die soon and how he wants to ensure that his family stays comfortable going to extent of planning his wife's re-marriage.

"The play takes you inside a common family's living room. The audience can relate to it and that has become the reason why it has been so popular for so long," shares Neeta Thakur, the female lead and the other half of Dinesh Thakur.

The play has an impressive star cast — some seasoned actors like SC Makhija and Aman Gupta and newer ones like Rohan Shroff and Rekha Rana. The roles have been interchanged, script adapted to suit modern times, but the play has enjoyed audience' appreciation.

"The whole team has been together to adapt for the play. Just last night on a flight to Chandigarh, we wrote a new scene, which we would incorporate in the upcoming productions," shares Neeta.

The sari-clad woman has given way to one in western long dress. But this Dinesh Thakur's play retains its comic timing. The director believes that theatre should, apart from entertaining, make society a better place.

ANK group, based in Mumbai, is happy performing their iconic production in Chandigarh. And, it's their love for theatre that has kept it going for three decades.

mona@tribunemail.com

History in the making 
As Punjabi cinema is ready to roll out a movie on the Battle of Saragarhi, we look at how equipped Pollywood is to handle epic dramas 
Jasmine Singh

When you to plan to watch a Punjabi movie, there is always a moment of thought… is it going to be worth the effort! The storyline (hope it is not on drugs or some NRI problem), the script (with useless twists and turns), the songs (shouting aloud about jatt di yaari and badla) and action sequences (something similar to how kids stage a proxy war) are certain aspects you can't help pondering over. However, Punjabi cinema is moving towards a better era with directors ready to experiment with new themes. So much so that we have subjects like epic and historical dramas getting a realistic treatment. Now, we have war situations that look like a war, a romantic drama where characters are not loud and out of the place. Punjabi cinema has finally said yes to technology and change! And how?

For Navnait Singh, director of Mel Kara De Rabba, plans to make a historical drama soon. Even though he feels that historical movies have a predictable storyline. "It is the treatment of the movie that makes all the difference. Dharti was a political drama with a strong subject, so it is about how well a director can treat history," says Navnait. "Technology of course has brought in a lot of changes to the whole outlook, and with time we can expect better historical dramas or war movies."

If it is about treatment and portraying characters realistically, movies like Waris Shah Ishq Da Waris, Heer Ranjha, Wagah, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Shaheed Udham Singh have come closer to being true. Nevertheless, there is a lot that needs to be done still. "Punjabi has loads of stories buried in every village that need to be told to the audiences. Periodic dramas are a way of bringing people closer to our culture and history. Cinema can play an important tool in disseminating information in the right way. Directors should give a near real treatment to these topics. Neither actors nor directors should take liberty with history," shares Punjabi singer and actor Babbu Mann adding, "The only reason why periodic movies haven't been explored in Punjab because they require a good budget."

Budget is definitely an issue with Punjabi cinema but more than this it is the extensive research that plays a major role in epic dramas. As for Punjabi singer, Hanjs Raj Hans who played a role of Waris Shah in a tele series on Maharaja Ranjit Singh and also in the movie Wagah, "Historical movies should be based on thorough research work. Hollywood movies score in periodic movies because they can recreate the entire scene and capture the event the way it happened. Right from the sets, locations, costumes, make up, language, everything looks real. Punjabi industry has numerous subjects to explore if only we can execute them properly," shares the actor who wants to see something similar to the Heer Ranjha that director Chetan Anand once made.

Punjabi cinema is ready to roll out a movie on the Battle of Saragarhi. Director Rohit Jugraj has been researching on the subject for almost two years now. He has travelled to Punjab and also visited families abroad who can share information with him on the historic event. Rohit has faced a lot of difficulties but he is determined to give the project an authentic touch. "The budget is a major issue with historic dramas, and second is research. A director cannot play with history and give half-baked facts," he says.

But when there is a will like Rohit's, there are several ways!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Brand-new claim

A new study has claimed that brands and logos are very important for some children, and that it is brought on by family attitudes, peer pressure and celebrity culture. Dr Jane Pilcher, a sociologist at the University of Leicester, has based her study on the influence of fashion on youngsters between the ages of five and 12 years. "There are a variety of fashion influences on children and you can't ignore the pressures from their peer groups and their ideas of what is cool," she said.

While Dr Pilcher agrees that there are worries surrounding children and fashion, yet she believes it would be unrealistic to expect the nature of childhood to stay the same when society itself is changing and becoming dominated by consumerism and the celebrity culture. —ANI

At your service
If you think women play only a cosmetic role in the hospitality sector, think again. Here is a Gen New brigade who handles everything related to hotel industry—from food complaints to sales to finances to bookings to guests’ satisfaction
Vasudha Gupta

Manisha Gupta
Bond with the rest: Manisha Gupta

In the hospitality sector, women had been associated with the front office jobs. But not anymore. Today things have changed and they are handling better, bigger responsibilities. So, how does it feel to defy norms and most importantly, how do they cope up with the work pressure?

“Timings do tend to get a bit too tough sometimes,” smiles Neha Uppal, restaurant manager at Black Lotus, Taj-Chandigarh. In the industry since the past five-and-a-half years, she has Burger King, London, shining on her resume. Despite a management degree in her kitty, she was keen on the hospitality sector which finally led to the Taj.

Five months in the service and she has nothing to complain about as far as her guests are concerned. “In this industry, it becomes very important to have leadership skills and supportive collogues,” she shares.

Having handled food complaints, sales, finances, bookings, guest satisfaction, she is now all set to start polishing her bar skills. “It’s something I have to improve upon,” she says.

And the problem area? “Sometimes guests tend to get hyper sensitive,” shares Brenda Barreto, duty manager at JW Marriot-35. Her work profile includes not only manning the lobby area and looking into guest requests, but also ensuring that the guests are comfortable.

“It is difficult to assess one’s likes and dislikes. For example, I can never know how spicy the food should be. And sometimes people get a little agitated over such matters,” she adds. Working here only since the past few months, she is certain that the fact of woman empowerment is now the new commandment and guests respect it. “In my three-and-a-half-year-old career, I have never felt that there is any difference between how guests treat a man and a woman,” she shares. For her, family has never been a problem. “When you are working in the industry, you just have to work round the clock, there are no two ways about it,” she says.

Others share similar experiences too. “There was this birthday party and due to some confusion of a name, I sent the guests back. Later, I was shouted at by them. It was the only time when I broke down,” says Monika Bhatti, hostess working in the Lobby.

With a diploma in aviation and hospitality, Monika has been part of the restaurant for the past seven years and gets seriously offended when guests are unresponsive. “It’s something that should be obvious. Smile for a smile,” she says. She does feel a variation in how guests respond to men and women. “The difference in approach is too obvious sometimes,” she admits.

However, such hiccups can be overcome with positive feed-backs. For Manisha Gupta, restaurant manager at the Girl in the Café, it is nothing but the feeling of being connected to her guests that makes the day. “It’s not always that guests are happy. When someone walks in and says, “I want to see Manisha, please have her look after my order,’ truly lifts my spirits,” she shares.

In this industry, she feels, it’s good to be recognised. Coming from a conservative family, it was not very easy for her to work in a restaurant. “It never was easy, but today, I have overcome those hurdles and now I love my job,” she shares.

vasudha@tribunemail.com

Beauty fix
British men spend 18 minutes daily looking handsome

Even as it may remain a favourite topic of many people to guess how much time women spend on looking good before stepping out, the question about men seems to have been answered at least in Britain.

An average British man spends as much as 18 minutes making himself look presentable in the morning, a research has found.

According to a study by shopping channel QVC, metrosexual men who take pride in their appearance are on the rise.

In a lifetime, they will spend 5,105 minutes or a little more than three-and-a-half days of their life-- in front of a mirror perfecting their look.

In a survey of 1,012 men, 54 per cent said they make the effort to please their partner while a quarter admitted they compete with male friends to see who looks more immaculate.

However, 38 per cent said they know little about how to groom themselves and even more said they would be too embarrassed to ask for tips.

The men who took the most time were the Welsh, with 70 percent claiming they work hard - some taking as long as an hour - to look good.

Meanwhile, men in the West Midlands take just 10 minutes getting ready. —IANS

The ‘in’ side
Window to a bathroom 
Sukhmani

Bathrooms are an important space in a household and these days a lot of thought and planning goes into designing them. Irrespective of the size, bathrooms must be designed to be an efficient and ambient space. If you are thinking of redesigning your bathroom, keep these points in mind-

n The best thing you can have in a bathroom is a lot of natural light. Make sure you have a window that allows a lot of sunlight. Windows in bathrooms are usually placed at eye level.

n Proper ventilation in a bathroom is a must since they are usually full of moisture. Fix an exhaust fan to keep the air fresh and moisture free.

n While planning your bathroom, provide enough storage space for your toiletries. Try placing small cupboards, shelves or niches where ever possible.

n Go for a washbasin that has a good depth. This prevents water from splashing all over the floor.

n The WC must have a seat that's comfortable to sit on. Wall mounted WCs take up less space and are ideal for small bathrooms. To save water, always use a dual flush.

n It is important to keep your wet and dry areas in the bathroom separate. Use glass partitions, shower cubicles or curtains to cordon off the bathing area.

n Avoid using flat paints on walls and cabinetry as they are difficult to clean and retain moisture.

n If your bathroom is big enough, convert one wall into an accent wall. It can either be done by using a darker shade or by using mosaic or highlighters.

n For the flooring, if you are using tiles, use large sized ones as these have lesser joints.

n Accessorise your bathroom with designer towels, colour coordinated toothbrush holders, soap dishes etc. You can also add a small plant or a floral arrangement to add a personal touch.

(Sukhmani is Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

TROUBLE SHOOTER
Simmi Waraich

Don't label your child
My son used to stammer in school. As a result he got bullied a lot. He also has very fixed ideas. For example, he reads up on politics and forms views and then talks to people about his point of view. As a result other children find him odd and do not make friends with him and teachers get upset by his questions. I try to listen and be patient but at times he gets angry if things do not go his way. He gets carried away while talking and it is difficult to interrupt him. How can I help him?
Nisha, Chandigarh

Some children are born with poor handwriting or poor reading skills and some are born with poor social skills and are unable to empathise with other's feelings like other children do. Sometimes this may be part of Aspergers Syndrome but sometimes it may just be part of normal personality variability. Therapy helps to deal with obsessions, meltdowns or angry outbursts, as well as developing skills such as recognising feelings and coping with anxiety. Therapy usually focuses on training a child to recognise a troublesome situation - such as a new place or an event with lots of social demands - and then select a specific learned strategy to cope with the situation. I have seen many children who come from overseas going regularly for such therapy to a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist but unfortunately in India, few people go regularly to a therapist.

How you can help is by understanding him. At times translate your child's behaviour for others. Like tell a teacher, "It takes him a little while to get used to a new place. It's best if we don't push him too fast." Model coping skills--help them in problem solving. Don't consider your child stubborn. In fact, tell others -"He is not stubborn, just wary of others. Once he gets to know them, he'll be fine."

Get help
I am 28 years old. I feel my wife is talking to another man on the phone. I felt this at night while we were sleeping. However, I cannot find anything wrong with her. I have been drinking heavily. Could it be because of this?
Jaspal, Patiala

Yes definitely, it could be because of alcohol. However, people can have such thoughts even without alcohol and it can cause serious marital problems. Perhaps you and she can go see a doctor together and get an evaluation. We get blood tests done and treadmill tests to rule out heart problems. Why should we ignore this? Before it ruins your marriage, see a psychiatrist and get an opinion. Prevention is always better rather than waiting till things flare up.

(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)

Trend Setter
High on glamour

Style and fashion go hand in hand and the art of combining style with the latest in haute couture is what makes one stand out. Such a combination does not necessarily need the support of brands to make heads turn. Vanu Narang, a B Com student believes in the "me" style

Your sense of style

Wearing that looks good on me. I don’t follow fashion blindly.

Latest addition in your wardrobe...

My lovely pink frock from Forever New.

Brand crazy or street pick ups?

Mostly brands for they are trustworthy but anything good in street wear will do.

My style icon would be…

My mom who carries whatever she wears, with grace.

Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity?

Rakhi Sawant.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Girls who wear revealing clothes to be stylish for they hardly attain that look.

Your take on accessories?

I am not much of an accessory person, and only like them for my hair.

What boosts your confidence level? Genuine compliments, especially when I have made the effort to look my best.

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

Astro Turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: Use your own judgment while taking important decisions. Your family members may not like your association. You should have an uncanny knack of understanding exactly what people want, even if they aren't expressing. Tarot message: Spend time on fitness routines. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 29

TAURUS: Make your choices wisely. Meditate on your situation and listen to your own guidance and you can't go wrong. Worries about your parents welfare should be acted upon. Tarot message: Take your partner out on a dinner & renew your relationship. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 47

GEMINI: You will feel irritated at work. A new deal may bring monetary gains. Don't hesitate to fall back on them if you are finding life hard at the moment. Romance is in the air with a person whose name starts with A, M or S. Tarot message: Adopt a diplomatic approach. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61

CANCER: Stock brokers: Think before investing. Youngsters may feel a bit lethargic. New work may prove lucrative. It is a great chance for you to enjoy an adventure together. Keep your eye on cash. Tarot message: Beware of making rash moves or personal decisions when upset. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 30

LEO: Business can be carried out successfully. You are unlikely to have any difficulty. Diplomacy and tact are the key words for the day. You can expect lots of social activity. Don't give advice as it could backfire on you. Tarot message: Keep your eyes and ears open for new opportunities. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 42

VIRGO: Students: do not neglect your work. Drive carefully. Humanity pays. Parent's health needs attention. A foolish obligation can be dropped. Stop thinking about everybody else and put yourself on center stage. Tarot message: Do try to be as charming as possible in all situations. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 25 

LIBRA: Get into work early because as the day unfolds, everything can become disjointed. An influential person may encourage you to take your career further. Secrecy will be helpful. Tarot message: Stop thinking about yourself and see what you can do for others. Lucky colour: Silver Grey. Magic number: 40

SCORPIO: No matter what problems might arise, you will achieve success. A new budget to suit your income and lifestyle will help you to make headway. Lovers might want to buy your partner a gift of love. Tarot message: Take life the way it comes. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 52

SAGITTARIUS: Chronic patient seek the advice of doctor. Work towards a promotion or pay increase rather than personal speculation and you should reap the rewards. Tarot message: Try to avoid serious discussions with loved ones. Lucky colour: Aqua blue. Magic number: 39

CAPRICORN: Early hours could see you encountering some difficulties. Home and family life can be frustrated at the moment. If your physical fitness is a concern, start a class in yoga and nurture your well-being. Tarot message: Seek advice but don't feel you have to stick to it. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 48

AQUARIUS: Home and family affairs will be most enjoyable. An attraction to the unknown can take you away from your comfort zone. A spiritual group might sound fascinating. You should find something out of the ordinary. Tarot message: A shopping spree can set your budget aflutter. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 36

PISCES: You are on the crest of a lucky wave. Do not sign new agreements. A hectic day for businessmen. No arguments please. Sit back and enjoy the day as it unfolds. Tarot message: Make the best of a bad situation by being polite and understanding. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 59

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 18...
It indicates that you are one who can work well with a group, however you still have an individual identity. You are broad-minded, tolerant, generous and a compassionate person that can inspire others with imaginative ideas. In business, you might be required to work hard and arrange funds for some sort of unforeseen expenses before you can clinch an important deal or sign a prestigious contract. You should be serious in this regard since this project has the potential for long-term benefits. Hence, you must put in all your efforts to make it a success.

A change in 2012 will make you give the best of yourself as you will see an opening for your future career. Minor mistakes can include banking errors. You may have to bear expenses relating to your love life. You may over-indulge when it comes to spending. You may go out for an outing with your family for spiritual or self development. Friends are a great distraction. You may complete pending work which may cause excess strain. Emotional stress can cause a bit of problem also. Mood : Easily upset. Compatible signs: Aquarius, Pisces. Lucky colours: Brown, Golden. Lucky days: Monday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 12, 43, 44. Lucky flower: Honey flower. Lucky gem: White coral.

You cut the cake today with Shabana Azmi ( September 18, 1950, New Delhi) wife of poet, lyricist and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar. She is one of the leading actresses of parallel cinema and social activist too. She is also a frequent visitor to Chandigarh and has participated in many plays, and notable among them include Tumhari Amrita. Her first release was Shyam Benegal's Ankur (1972), which won the national award. However, her first film was an art film, made by Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, Faalsa, which was released in 1974. Shabana is ruled by two strong numbers 6 and 9. While Venus will maintain her in Films and mars helps her to remain strong minded and bold.

Chatter Box
R company

Actor Ranvir Singh visited the sets of Star Plus' dance reality show Just Dance and was happy not just to meet super star Hrithik Roshan but also his good friend Rajit Dev. Ranvir became friends with Rajit when they were dancing to Dum Dum Mast Hai from Band Baaja Baraat. Every since they became friends and Ranvir was glad to cheer on Rajit's journey in Just Dance.

The heat is on...

Gear up for a hot and happening night of fun and entertainment this Sunday as SRK and Bebo will entertain Star Plus viewers with a foot-tapping weekend with the launch of Ra.One music album. Tap your feet to the tunes of Dilbara and Chammak Challo as King Khan unleashes a journey into an unknown future with his latest release Ra.One. From SRK's fantastic aerial act to Kareena's latke-jhatke, this high-octane event has top five favourite bahus doing the Chammak Challo with Shahrukh Khan on this stage. Watch it on Sunday. 

Comic timing

This weekend comedy gets bolder and hotter with Ayesha Takia taking the judge's seat along with Archana and Sohail. Bharti and Siddharth made everyone laugh with their amazing chemistry and Bharti challenged Ayesha to dance with her. Ayesha accepted her challenge and did a sizzling dance on bijlee girane main hoon aayyee. Comedians will tickle your funny bone with their hilarious acts.

Live life star size

It was all planned. Trupti did only what she was told to. You heard that right. Anurag Basu himself made her catch him by his collar and abuse him similar to what he made Priyanka Chopra do at the script narration of Barfee! Trupti Bansal was overwhelmed to be given the opportunity to live Priyanka Chopra's life for one whole day. The diva in Trupti was brought out through a photo session with the very renowned photographer, Jatin Kampani and then a surprise visit by Priyanka. 

Star Track
Friendly displeasure

Actress Juhi Chawla feels that the acknowledgement about his ailing producer-brother Bobby's contribution, from good friend and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, should have come much earlier.

Recently, at the music launch of Ra.One, Shah Rukh had dedicated the music of his forthcoming film to Bobby, who is in coma for over a year after brain haemorrhage.

"I want to dedicate this album to Yash Joharji and Bobby. When we started our company Red Chillies Entertainment ...the one who helped me start was Bobby," Shahrukh had said at the music launch function here.

"I am not lashing out at Shah Rukh. But yes I do feel that why do we always talk about a person after the phase is over. I wish it (acknowledgement for contribution to Red Chillies success) was sooner," Juhi told in an interview.

Asked if they had spoken to each other after the incident, Juhi said, "He (SRK) does not have time. He is workacholic...he works 20 hours a day...so where is the time." Earlier also Juhi had rued that the superstar does not have time for his old friends anymore. Juhi and Shah Rukh have been good friends. Both have given hit films like Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Darr and Yes Boss. — PTI 

Bollywood bound

 Paris Hilton International celebrity Paris Hilton, who would be visiting India to launch her line of handbags and accessories, says she is excited about it and is looking forward to her first visit to the country.

Paris will be in Mumbai from September 24 to 27 to promote the launch of her collection of handbags in India.

"This will be my first visit to India. I look forward to seeing the country and opening my new shops. It's always been important to create fashion-forward products at an affordable price... I'm excited to meet all of my fans and the amazing Bollywood celebrities," Paris said in a statement. —PTI

Comedy man

Ashton Kutcher Hollywood star Ashton Kutcher says he is not trying to replace Charlie Sheen on comedy series Two and a Half Men because the latter was incredible.

The 33-year-old actor took over the leading role in the comedy series following Sheen's public meltdown and spat with the show's creator Chuck Lorre, and he says he has been lucky to get the job and hopes he can do half as good as the troubled actor.

"I feel like the luckiest guy in the world. It's always sort of nice to jump on something that's already moving and successful and people have an appetite for it. It just seemed like the best job in the world,' said Kutcher.

"Charlie was incredible on that show and I can't, there's no way I'm going to replace Sheen. I'm not playing his character. But it's the same people that have been making people laugh the last eight years are going to keep making people laugh," he added. — PTI

Experiencing life

Olivia Wilde Cowboys and Aliens star Olivia Wilde has revealed that her divorce from Italian Prince and film director Tao Ruspoli was 'the most difficult thing' she has ever dealt with. The 27-year-old actress also admitted that she jumped into a stage of adulthood prematurely and has grown from the experience, both literally and figuratively.

"I got married at a very young age, so I sort of jumped into a stage of adulthood prematurely. I learned quite a lot," she said.

She also talked about the rumours surrounding her love life and how she learned how to just 'be herself' in Hollywood.

She said that she was instructed that "sex sells" and that she needed to trade in her turtlenecks for skimpy tank tops.

"I went through this kind of A Star is Born transformation, where they made my hair very blonde, and I got very skinny, and I was like, 'And now, I fit the mould!" she said. — ANI

No time for love

Mamma Mia star Amanda Seyfried says her dog is the only man in her life and she doesn't have time for romance.

The 25-year-old actor, who has recently been linked to sports entrepreneur Franck Raharinosy and real estate executive Andrew Joblon, says she dedicates all her time to her pet pooch so has no room in her life for romance.

"My mind is on my dog. He's my best friend. I love him. I think of him and only him. I don't like to be out late because I just want to go home to my dog." she said.

Seyfried, who recently split from Hollywood hunk Ryan Phillippe and dated her Mamma Mia co-star Dominic Cooper for three years said that she likes to keep men guessing, and thinks 'mystery is really sexy'.

"I don't think men find me irresistible at all. I've got a filthy side and a romantic side - I like to keep them guessing."

"Mystery is really sexy. Bad guys also tend to be really self-centered and very fearless - I don't know why but that is sexy. It shouldn't be, it's disgusting," she said. — PTI

Hello brothers

Shahid Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor will come together in Siddharth Anand's film. The two actors have grown close recently and lavished praise on the promos of their respective movies. Sid and Ranbir have grown up together and have reconciled post the disappointing run of Anjaana-Anjaani. 

Razzle and dazzle

 Reshma, Nagesh, Ayesha, Elahe, Ranvijay and Riyaz Riyaz Gangji celebrity couturier of Libas dazzled the event with the cast of Shreya Entertainment's film Mod—Ayesha Takia, Ranvijay Singh, director Nagesh Kukunoor and producer Elahe Hiptoola at Libas, Pedder Road store. Mocktails and sumptuous snacks served by Riyaz Gangji's cafe were relished by the guests. The Bridal line was unveiled and appreciated by one and all present. Everyone came on time for this event. Nagesh and Ranvijay were the ones who came in casuals and were seen getting fittings done by Riyaz at the venue. Ayesha and Elahe came dressed up in Indian attire which was exclusively designed for them to promote their movie Mod by team Libas. Reshma Gangji and Nishant Mahimtura were seen mingling with the guests as the alluring evening came to an end. Ayesha told the media that she loves bright colours and she loved the dress designed by Riyaz Gangji.

Moving on

Kareena Kapoor is okay with working with ex-Shahid Kapoor if they both do the sequel to 'Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai'. She has moved on and so has he and there is no bad blood between them. Saif, Kareena, and Shahid respect each other.

Wait is not over

Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, and Rani Mukerji starrer directed by Reema Katgi has been postponed. It's not releasing on January 26 anymore. The postponed date is not yet confirmed. Hrithik Roshan starrer Agneepath has shifted to January 26 from January 13.

On a launch spree

Pooja Bhatt Bollywood actor-turned-filmmaker Pooja Bhatt, who introduced Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan in Bollywood with her 2004 movie Paap, is now set to launch Mariyam Unoosha, a singer from the Maldives.

"After introducing Rahat Fateh Ali Khan to India through Man Ki Lagan I will now unleash the sheer brilliance of Unoosha from the Maldives," Pooja posted on 
Twitter.

"Soon, Unoosha from the Maldives will create the same impact as Rahat did. This is not mere assumption. It is absolute conviction and belief," she added. —IANS

Sonam's love guide

Sonam Kapoor is a self-confessed romantic. She eats, breathes, sleeps, sees, and feels romance. She is delighted that 'Mausam' is a film that shows love beyond romance. The good-looking actress refuses to talk about her relationship status, but is more than happy to talk about romance and dating.

Giving space

See your partner, think, and then judge the situation before you get romantic with him/her. If you both are not in a bad mood, go ahead and be normal and romantic. Don't be over-possessive because initially, a guy may like it, but then, it becomes irritating. It's the same with women. So, never become over-possessive about your partner; give each other space.

Love is life

According to me, love is the most important factor in life. If you have lovely people around you (not necessarily your husband/ boyfriend), then you are the happiest person, because they stand by you through everything. I love the idea of idealistic love. That feeling when you are in love for the first time is the most amazing one, which can't be described in words. Then you know there is someone who is thinking about you, caring about you. In the same way, parental love is also very important.

Loyal till death

I don't understand one thing - infidelity. When you are in a relationship with one, why do you have to date someone else? If you are not happy with your relationship, just inform your partner that you don't want to continue the relationship. Incidents of infidelity are growing day by day. Love doesn't mean just having affection for a person and meeting him/her. There are a lot many other things attached to it, like being loyal and faithful. Understanding and faith are the biggest keys to any successful relationship, as I have seen in real life. I have seen this in my parents' relationship, and that's how they are still so much in love.

Romance fantasies

My idea of romance is classic. I love going for candle-light dinners, walking by the sea-shore and romantic talks. I love being pampered.

Being humourous

Believe it or not, but guys love their girls to look their best. So, try looking good whenever you are meeting him outside (if possible), and smell good on your date. That's very important, because it makes a lasting impression on your partner. Along with all this, one should also have enough humour to make one's partner comfortable. I totally believe that good humour can bring two people close.

Favorite romantic movies

I love watching romantic films. Since childhood, I have grown up watching romantic films. Some of my favorites are 'Gone With The Wind', 'Romeo And Juliet', 'Pakeezah', 'Mughal-E-Azam', 'Anand', 'Saathiya' and 'Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge'. My recent favorite is 'Avatar'.

Romantic novels

When I was in school, it was 'Mills & Boons'. Then, I loved reading 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte, 'Wuthering Heights' by Emile Bronte, and 'Pride And Prejudice' by Jane Austen.

Selena's secret crush

 Selena Gomez Selena Gomez has revealed her desire to work with Hollywood heartthrob Leonardo DiCaprio, but is unsure whether it will ever come true. The American singer, who is currently dating pop sensation Justin Bieber, had in 2010 revealed about her secret crush on the Inception star.

"I don't think Leonardo DiCaprio is calling me anytime soon. But I will be calling Leonardo myself and asking if he wants to work with me," says Selena.

The former Disney starlet also revealed that there are already a number of stars, including Natalie Portman and Salma Hayek, who are ready to work with her.

"I've had a phone call with Salma Hayek, who said she wanted to work with me, and before Natalie Portman got pregnant, she said she wanted to meet me," shares Selena. — ANI

Pitt’s pretense?

Brad Pitt is in damage control mode after calling his marriage to ex-wife Jennifer Aniston a pretense.

The 47-year-old star, who has attracted criticism on the internet for his uncharitable comments, says he was 'misinterpreted'.

In an interview to Parade magazine, Pitt had said that he pretended to make his marriage to Aniston 'something that it wasn't'.

"I spent the '90s trying to hide out, trying to duck the full celebrity cacophony. I started to get sick of myself sitting on a couch, holding a joint, hiding out. I was intent on trying to find a movie about an interesting life, but I wasn't living an interesting life myself," said Pitt.—PTI

What the hack!

Hollywood star Mila Kunis' phone containing pictures of her and Friends with Benefits co-star, Justin Timberlake, have been hacked. One of the pictures reportedly displays the 30-year-old Timberlake lying shirtless in a bed, while another one has him wearing pink panties over his head.

There is also a photo of Kunis in a bathtub being leaked. It was noted, however, that all that is visible is her head. The hacker also claimed there are some text exchanges between the actress and the SexyBack singer, Timberlake. —PTI

Hazel's big break

British Indian actor Hazel Keech, who made her Bollywood debut with blockbuster Bodyguard, says Salman Khan never revealed that he was suffering from pain while shooting for the movie.

Salman left for the US before the film could hit the screens and underwent an eight-hour operation in Pittsburgh for a nerve problem that was causing excruciating pain in his head, jaws and cheeks. "The operation went off well, but the pain is still there so he would be going for another operation. But even if he is in pain, he is never going to speak of it. He is such a brave person," says Keech.

Hazel flew down to Mumbai from London with stardust in her eyes, but gave up all hopes of making a career in acting in India. She was returning when she got the Bodyguard offer. "I was not getting any work, so I was planning to go back to London. The day I was about to leave, I got a text message from Atul Agnihotri and he asked me to meet him. I met him, we spoke for over two-and-a-half-hours and then he selected me," said the 24-year-old, who has worked in Tamil film Billa.

Salman, who she had met in London while he was shooting for London Dreams, had passed on her number to Agnihotri who has co-produced the blockbuster with Reliance Entertainment.

Hazel started her career as an actor at a very tender age by doing small roles in Hollywood films. She worked in three editions of Harry Potter.

"I am with the entertainment industry since the age of 12. I used to do small roles in Western films. When I was in school, I did Harry Potter. Gradually, I started getting bigger roles. I worked in the second, third and fourth editions of Harry Potter. —IANS

Taking charge

After No One Killed Jessica and Reema Katgi's film, Rani Mukerjee will be seen in Anurag Kashyap's film. A source close to Anurag informed, "Anurag has always made films with newcomers but he is a big Rani fan. After watching her work in No One Killed Jessica, Anurag decided to approach her for his next film. After listening to the script, Rani agreed to do the film." The film is titled Aiyaa and will be directed by Sachin Kundalkar.

Role call: Rani Mukherjee

Dirty scene

The Dirty Picture is facing the consequences of being among the most popular films on the circuit.

On Friday, the unit had to brave the onslaught of a mob that had gathered on the Bidar Fort premises (on the outskirts of Hyderabad, more North Karnataka) where Emraan Hashmi and Vidya Balan were shooting an intense romantic track. The police and staff of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had to intervene to keep the crowd under control. Says a source, "The Bidar Fort is an extremely exotic location with huge tourism potential. It was the perfect setting, with beautiful Diwan-e-Khas and Diwan-e-Aam in the background. Both Emraan and Vidya had to be rushed into their make-up vans immediately though the crowd proved to be fairly understanding." —HRM





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