Click to fashion
Not just online stores, technology has made fashion simpler and accessible in several ways. Ashima Sehajpal finds out more…

A 3-D creation by Jai and Parvesh

Neelanjhan Ghosh

In 1989 when Kaushik Ghosh started choreographing fashion shows, it took him weeks to plan an event. "There was no guarantee that the event would turn out as planned." After over two decades, the scene has changed dramatically. "The chances of making a faux pas on stage have dropped by 98 per cent."

Just a couple of days before the show, he opens his laptop and designs the show on the multimedia software. "From how the ramp should be, the time gap between two models walking on it, lights, music…everything is predefined." The thriving online fashion stores import from the flea markets of China and Thailand, and even from the high-end labels. You can order clothes, shoes, accessories et al - the reason why major brands have tie-ups with web portals. Neelanjhan Ghosh, who has showcased his collections at the Wills India Lifestyle Fashion Week, says, "It helps in expanding the size of the market to even the small towns of India. I supply my creations to retailers and even directly to consumers through my website."

While this aspect of 'technology-helping-fashion' has still been acknowledged, the lesser known facts are several. The basic designing, selection of the colour palette, choice of embellishments, silhouettes or patterns…all help designers in deciding. "For the 3D collection we showcased at the LFW, we had to use the same technique that is used to make shoes and bags. By using the CAD software, it became much easier for us to adopt the technique for clothes. Software I-photo makes it possible to see how a colour would look in sunlight as well as under artificial lights," shares Jai of Jai Parvesh designer duo.

Use of technology has reduced the wastage of material, resulting in cost-cutting. Shares Jai, "We get 3D images of creations on different software. It gives us a fair idea on how much fabric and embellishments are required for the outfit. In fact, the details are so area-specific that the wastage is ten times less than before when everything was used in bulk."

Softwares like adobe, photoshop and CAD have given a lot of scope to a designer. Neelanjhan explains, "If I like an embroidery pattern in any part of the world, I click it and mail it to my kaarigar. When he likes a certain design on the cloth, he gets it scanned and mails it to me."

Academic courses in the fashion designing institutes are also as much about teaching sketching and drawing as about mastering such softwares. The prestigious fashion schools are technology institutes, for example - the National Institute of Fashion Technology in seven cities and University Institute of Fashion Technology in the Panjab University. Adds Prabhdip Brar, assistant professor, UIFT, "Technical subjects comprise 60 per cent of the syllabus of the university course in fashion designing. If one wants to take up fashion designing, it's mandatory to know how to use these softwares." Probably that's where the difference between a fashion designer and your neighbourhood tailor sets in!

ashima@tribunemail.com

SUCCESS MANTRA
Putting it right
Mona

Jeev Milkha Singh is a sportsman of repute and his love for golf happened when as a nine-year-old, he accompanied his father (Flying Sikh Milkha Singh) to the golf course. "There were four or five of us in the same age group; I started playing golf because I had good company and loved the game," shares Jeev, on a short trip to Chandigarh in between his hectic schedule.

And the success he has achieved? "It wasn't that easy. It required a lot of hard work and I saw many challenges. Success has come because I hung in there in the good times as well as the bad," says Jeev, who has had a clock-full of championships.

Even though a sportsperson, he is not much of a sports-viewer. "I am so much into sports that to unwind I prefer watching anything but games," he says. National Geographic and movie channels being his preference, Jeev's favourite movies are Fugitive, Chaka De India and 3 Idiots. In his own journey, Jeev considers Volvo Masters of Europe (2006) and Singapore Open Title (2008) as important milestones. As for the rough patches in this otherwise remarkable journey, "It is best forgotten," says Jeev.

Having earned a name in sports, Jeev still puts in his best efforts. In fact, on a break to recover from his back injury, we found him spending time in the golf course over the weekend. "Well, there are a few more titles that I want to bag before I bid goodbye to a career in golf," Jeev explains.

At home to enjoy a short (not desired) break and indulge in home-cooked food, Jeev shares with us what it takes to reach the top.

Love what you do

If one has passion for the field one is in, life is rather smooth and success imminent.

Work hard

Nothing can replace hard work in a success story. Put better than your best in the chosen field.

Believe in yourself

Be sure of yourself. The only person who plays a significant role in your success is you.

Stay focused

Take your time before you choose your field. Once the aim is clear, let nothing deter you.

Hang in there

Life is a journey, which is a mix of the good and bad times. Don't get heady when success knocks; don't get disheartened when times are not good.

"Love for your field coupled with hard work and clear aim is the recipe for success," vouches Jeev.

The abiding diya
Although Chinese lights and other decorative items have taken over from the traditional mitti ka diyas, the latter is being re-invented in various designs and patterns
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Nothing quite says 'light' than candles and diyas although with changing times, lighting has become more sophisticated and ornamental. You can have your fill with aromatic, designer or plain lights crafted in various shapes, sizes and designs, but nothing can replace the beauty of a flickering earthen diya on a Diwali night.

From traditional mitti ka diya to the latest embedded with zari and mirror work, diyas too have re-invented themselves to stay in business with sharply cut edges, fine lines decorated with bright coloured wax and terracotta. "With the advent of Chinese lights that are cheap and easy to light, survival for clay diyas has become difficult. To attract people, we are now adding colours and wax so that it is easy to light the diyas. Other than that, we have some moulds that bring out fine designs," says Lucky, vendor of earthen lamps in Sector 20, Chandigarh. He adds, "Whatever might come, people still buy a few plain mitti ka diyas for the Diwali night since they need it for Lakshmi puja."

Sprucing up the homes, flickering in the wind, wafting odour of incense, the soft shadows cast by diyas make for the perfect ingredients that go into creating the Diwali magic. And it is not only small vendors who are crafting a magical spell with clay, but big players too are selling the designer clay stuff for the festival of lights.

Big Bazaar at Paras Down Town Mall in Zirakpur has a stall for earthen and terracotta lamps. From designer diyas to plain mitti ka diya, here you can have your fill with some fine craftsmanship in clay. A salesman at the counter says, "Clay art has always been special for traditional festivals. And changing the very face of mitti ka diya, we now have designer diyas, thalis with Ganpati and Laskhmi in terracotta" Agreeing that the demand has decreased over the years, he says, "Yes, unlike yesteryears when people only lighted mitti ka diyas, people have now moved on to alternatives but with these designer beauties we are attracting a good number of people."

Here you can pick some beautiful diyas in shapes of Ganesha, paan patta, a thali with five diyas and Lakshmi and Ganesha crafted to perfection.

Though there is no denying the fact that designer candles and Chinese lights have surpassed the diyas, since our roots are strong people still love to include a few diyas to their Diwali night. And that's a positive sign that clay art vendors are cashing upon. Says a salesman from Gallery-7 in Sector 7, Panchkula, "The demand for mitti diyas has increased this year, but people don't want the plain-looking diyas. It has to be designer stuff and potters know this fact, so they have re-invented the stuff with diyas in various shapes and designs. They add glitter, colour and decorate the candle with beads, sequins and even kundan." That's not all; they are even adding scents (a drop), wicks and embellishments of your choice.

STUNT Woman: Sameera Reddy

On a high

Sameera Reddy’s recent release in Tamil Vetti was well-appreciated. She will now be seen in a Hindi movie titled Tezz. Sameera talks to us about Vetti, Tezz and more!

On Vetti

Vetti is a comedy directed by Prabhu Deva. It has done very well down South. The audience loved it and the credit goes to Prabhu Deva. He is a perfectionist and works till he gets the best out of us. Apart from Prabhu Deva, I made friends with my co-star Madhaan. Maddy is so cool and always concentrates on his work. 

Playing a toughie

I won’t say that it’s the toughest role, but yes there was this one song sequence that was choreographed by Prabhu Deva, which was really tough. Prabhu is a strict director and he wants everything to be perfect.

Bolly vs Tolly

Most Bollywood movies are remakes of South Indian films. However, Bollywood has a higher reach as the South Indian films are regional and only a select population can understand them. Since Hindi is spoken across India, there is no harm in doing a Bollywood movie.

Biker girl

I wanted to do my own stunts, which is why I signed Tezz. It’s about train jacking and stars Ajay Devgn and Zayed Khan. I play a biker and do a few stunts. I trained a lot and learnt that stunts aren’t easy, but they are a lot of fun.

On the sets

I am a big fan of Ajay and respect his work ethics. He is very chilled out and a huge prankster. He makes everyone laugh. Zayed is an old college friend, but it was the first time that we acted together. It was a mini-reunion for us. Tezz will release later this year.

—HRM

Wear and glow

Hollywood heartthrob Robert Pattinson gifted actress Reese Witherspoon glow-in-the-dark exercise clothes after he came to know that she had been hit by a car while jogging.

The parcel had reflective vests, wrist bands, tennis shoes and a hat - all of which were designed by Stella McCartney and was sent to his Water For Elephants co-star along with a note wishing her a speedy recovery. “Reese was very touched by Rob’s gesture. She intends to keep running and the gear will come in very handy when it’s dark outside,” a source said. —IANS

Political saga

Yash Raj Films’ next project, Ishaqzaade, written and directed by Habib Faisal and produced by Aditya Chopra, will see the launch of Arjun Kapoor along with Parineeti Chopra. Shooting begins on Monday and the movie is scheduled for a May 2012 release.

The protagonists’ turbulent journey unfolds in the often unrealistic and daunting political confines of rural India.

This is one film to watch out for. —HRM

Kajal over Kangna

Denied access: Kangna Ranaut

Kangna Ranaut and Ajay Devgn have fallen out. Our source told us that recently a leading production house approached Ajay with a good script and they had Kangna in mind to cast opposite Ajay, but Ajay asked them to go for Kajal instead.






Making way: Kajal Aggarwal

Hot shot: Sonam Kapoor

A lot like love

Sonam Kapoor is one of the hottest faces in Bollywood. Blessed with cosmopolitan looks and brilliant fashion sense, the actress is a good ambassador for the brands she endorses. We asked her some personal questions, to which she had some witty replies.

Do you consider yourself a role model?

Maybe! My friends think that I’ve been an inspiration. I used to be a fat kid, but started losing weight when I decided to act. I wouldn’t call myself a style icon, though people have labelled me as one. To me, fashion is being comfortable with the way you look.

Are you obsessed with your weight?

Every girl is obsessed with her weight. I know how hard I worked to get here. So, yes I am obsessed with the way I look. I have a body type that makes me put on weight easily. So I have become extremely particular about what I eat.

What is your diet like?

I am on a strict diet. I avoid eating outside food and mostly eat homemade food. I have a weak stomach so I cannot eat everything. I’m not a fan of crash diets as they are harmful. Many people know about the ulcers that I had because of this diet. However, I stay healthy and stick to fruits and water.

How were you as a teenager?

I was a wild kid. However, being the eldest meant I had a lot of responsibilities as my siblings would try and emulate me. However, I’m happy about my teenage years. Every age has its own charm and we should enjoy that.

You said you were wild, can you describe it?

(Laughs) Wild in the sense, I used to get tattooed. I liked wild music. I had lots of piercings. Till today I have my belly pierced.

Has life changed after you became an actress?

On the personal front, nothing has changed. I am still treated like a kid at home. My friends are still my friends and I enjoy their company a lot. At home, I am under more surveillance because I get acidity. So I am fed every two hours. My mom still sometimes oils my hair. Since I have become an actress, I think common people have started recognising me, which is a good thing. Wherever I go, they greet me and I feel really good.

How will you describe yourself as a girlfriend?

This you should ask my boyfriend but as I don’t have anyone now so I will tell you myself. I like to be pampered. I am a big romantic movie fan so I love to romance, the movie style.  Not every day, but sometimes surprises are most welcome. On the other hand, I am also very practical. Basically I am an emotional person and always want someone to talk to.

What do you look forward to in a relationship?

Trust, emotional love, attachment and understanding! When all of these are there, love is there. Every couple should communicate because lack of communication sometimes develops misunderstanding. Support from your partner is a must.

—HRM

Rocking encounter

India’s heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor recently made the MBA students of NMIMS, Mumbai go crazy with an exciting interaction held at the college! Ranbir Kapoor, Imtiaz Ali, Nargis Fakhri and voice of Rockstar singer Mohit Chauhan interacted with the students in the college auditorium.

What they didn’t anticipate was the frenzy they generated! Upon hearing that the stars have arrived at NMIMS, the news spread like wildfire and the students from neighboring colleges such as UPG, Mithibai etc also gathered on the roads to catch a glimpse, creating chaos and traffic jams! The students asked many interesting questions on the film and in general, and most could not resist from going up to the stage to get a hug from Ranbir. The Rockstar then took a guitar in his hands and led the way for a great fun filled jamming session with Mohit Chauhan and of course the students.

Young and loving it

Actress Elizabeth Hurley’s nine-year-old son Damien went on a date with Blake Lively. The Gossip Girl star has revealed that she, who is 15 years elder to her son, asked for permission and took Damien to an ice cream parlour for his first “date.” “Blake asked if she could take Damian out. So she took him to an ice-cream parlour. That’s his first date – Blake Lively!” a publication quoted Hurley as saying. Damien is evidently inspired by the Hollywood star Ashton Kutcher whose wife Demi Moore is also 15 years elder to him.—ANI

Jumping the queue

Ajay Devgn could be replacing Aamir Khan in a project. Anees Bazmee approached Aamir Khan with a script. Though Aamir liked the script, he asked Bazmee to wait for two years since his dates are full. Bazmee didn’t want to wait and approached Ajay. The actor is now on board and the duo will start shooting early 2012.

Estate of affair

Shilpa Shetty is eyeing the Real Estate business. Shilpa, along with her husband Raj Kundra and business partner Hem Tuteja, recently launched a website that enables individuals to buy their dream house without burning a hole in their pockets. Not only this, we also hear that Shilpa is now planning a production house too.

New-found friendship

Sanjay Dutt has been shooting with Vivek Oberoi in Wai for Zilla Gaziabad and Sanju baba realised that Vivek is a fine man. On Vivek’s birthday, Sanjay organised a big bash for him at Wai.

In Kool company

Ritesh Deshmukh, Sarah Jane-Dias, Neha Sharma and director Sachin Yardi were present at the Muhurat of film Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum at The Renaissance Hotel, Powai. Tusshar could not attend the event as he was shooting for another film in Rajasthan.

Chatter box

On the love lane

Preeto (Aknita Sharma) and Rajbeer( Aditya Redij) of Imagine TVs Saware Sabke Sapne – Preeto have been involved in a game. While both of them have been in love, neither is expressing the same to the other. During this entire week, audiences will see many romantic moments between the leads while they wait for the other to admit their love. Preeto will also fast for Karwa Chauth but won’t admit the same. Who will blink first?

Fasting times: Ankita Sharma

Future plans

In a shocking turn of events, the telly world is abuzz with the news of Ashvini Yardi resigning as programming head of Colors. She was instrumental in taking the channel forward with shows like Bigg Boss and Fear Factor.

From television to art

Gauri Pradhan Tejwani is missing from television post the birth of her kids. She has been pursuing other interests, including painting. She has been doing that for over five years and will soon hold an exhibition. Gauri’s new company Colours on Fire will conduct art exhibition displaying art works of over 30 artists. Being an art lover, she can stay connected to her passion while taking care of her two kids.

different strokes: Gauri Pradhan

Replacement theory

It is confirmed now that Imagine will be replacing Anuj Thakur lead of Imagine’s Beend Banoongaa Ghodi Chadhunga with Naman Shaw. Anuj’s tantrums were apparently the main reason for his ouster. Naman has worked with the channel before in Rakt Sambhandh and has a good record.

His gain, his loss: Naman Shaw and Anuj Thakur

Farewell times

Smita Jaykar, who essayed the role of Thakurain Chandra Prabha in Zee TV’s Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli, cried on the last day of her shoot in the show. The track showed Chandra Prabha succumbing to her injuries in an accident. An emotional Smita Jaykar said, “I was aware that my character would end but on my last day of shoot, it suddenly dawned upon me that I will no more be a part of the show. Coming to the sets in the morning and spending the entire day with Karan, Suhasi, Alokji and the rest of the crew and cast had become a part of my life. It has been an emotional journey filled with so many interesting memories. I know I will always be welcome on the sets whenever I come but I will definitely miss being a part of the show.”

Big fan of small screen

Star Plus’ Diya Aur Baati Hum not only has been well received among the audiences but this Shashi-Summit Mittal production has also got a famous celebrity as a fan. Producer-director Sooraj Barjatya is a huge fan and he loves the story, treatment and acting on the show. Reportedly, Summit Mittal personally received an appreciation from Barjatya for his beautiful concept.





A still from Diya aur Baati Hum

Never-ending romance

In the Nineties, the film industry got a tall dark and handsome villain who came and conquered the heart of millions of film goers. We are talking about Mohnish Behl.

 His image underwent a transformation when he moved to the small screen — playing mostly positive characters. Currently, he is playing Dr. Asutosh in Rajan Shahi’s Kuch Toh Log Kehenge. That is when people started noticing the subtle but strong romantic traits in Behl. It is true in his real life too. Be it any event, he is always accompanied by wife Ekta.

Even after so many years their romance is as fresh as it was when they were seeing each other.
The right note: Mohnish Behl

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The Prince of Wands comes riding with a promise of power and energy. This should be a sociable day. Activities with your mate, partner and friends are likely to be good humoured and cheerful. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56. 

TAURUS: The Fool infuses you with courage. Make sure you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone. If a family member is not cooperating; refrain from arguing. Your personal interests are likely to be stagnant. Tarot message: Don’t try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

GEMINI: Ten of Pentacles bode extremely well for relationships. Today you will enjoy interacting with people who share your views. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you to enhance your reputation. Tarot message: Do not trivialise problems that are haunting you. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28

CANCER: The karmic Wheel of fortune turns in your favour. Get a good sleep and cancel late-night parties. Today loved ones will be more demanding. Trust your institution. Beware of strangers in the evening. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 32. 

LEO: The Prince of Pentacles infuses financial stability. Chalk up your sparking personality and a lively conversation. Delays can be expected today. A happy surprise awaits you. Love stars twinkle. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43.

VIRGO: Like the Knight of Cups you are emotional in personal relationship and graceful on social occasions. You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47.

LIBRA: Plan fun and relaxing activities with friends and loved ones. The Magus brings changes in travel. Today you will be quite amazed to find yourself taking on a more ambitious role. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44.

SCORPIO: Ace of Swords pulls you in opposite direction when making a decision. A yearning for overseas travel and adventure could encourage a career of your choice. A celebration is on the cards. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future as you do so. Lucky colour: Fiery red. Magic number: 28.

SAGITTARIUS: Interesting and unusual people come into your contact and give you different ideas on how to go about financial matters. Do not overloook physicians’ advice. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 33.

CAPRICORN: The Prince of Cups brings you to your truths, hopes and desires that you mask with a calm surface. Get those feelings out in the open where they can be dealt with. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36.

AQUARIUS: The Lovers facilitate you to be open and inspired by new ideas. A surprise phone call could put you back in touch with a friend you have not seen for a long time. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Exercise caution. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 54.

PISCES: The Priestess infuses promise and commitment in personal relationship. Bring up the sensitive issues that everybody is skirling around which will encourage some open and revealing discussing. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is October 19...

Nineteenth October 2011 gives greater will power and self-confidence, and very often a rather original approach; but with this, a somewhat self-centered approach to life that may be in conflict with some of the other influences in your life. You may be nervous and get angry more easily. Don’t let an attractive opportunity slip through your fingers. For those with an Ascendant in Libra, excellent collaboration and new professional contacts with Aries and Capricorn are on the cards. The coming year shows a major improvement in all areas of life. You’re especially imaginative now — very helpful across the board. For students, there’s no point expecting clamorous and immediate success. You could damage a friendship if you keep talking too much. If you’re travelling for work, find ways to sneak in a pleasure jaunt or two. It’ll make you more focused on the job and give your spirit a much-needed sense of revitalization. Compatible signs: Libra, Pisces. Lucky colours: Papaya Whip. Lucky days: Wednesday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 4, 5, 11, 19, 32. Lucky Flower: Satin-Flower. Lucky Gem: Chrysocolla - The Gemstone of Peace.

Well-built and good looking. Sunny Deol (Ajaysingh Dharmendra Deol, October19, 1956) shares the great day with you. He debuted in the super hit Betaab. Sunny’s biggest hit to date, and also Bollywood’s all time blockbuster was Gadar-Ek Prem Katha. The film catapulted Sunny to the number one spot that is yet to be challenged. Yamla Pagla Deewana was a family drama which could not make the mark. Sunny’s stars promise a big award in 2015 in film world.