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A leaf
from life
It seems nothing can affect Puneet Issar's enthusiasm. Each time he talks about his close-to-heart and soul project, I Am Singh, his eyes turn red with stories of the hardwork he has put in for this; his hands move up and down explaining the point that got him started on the movie.
Incidents come rolling, and Puneet narrates them one after the other to friends and colleagues gathered to cheer him up for the launch of his movie in Chandigarh on Monday. He talks about the dream project I Am Singh, which he has been carrying in his mind and heart, virtually living it everyday for almost 7-8 years before he met the man, the producer Peshaura Singh Thind who helped provide a face to his dream. Puneet Issar is unstoppable and we tell you why! "I would hear about the incidents that happened with the Sikhs after 9/11. How they were being mistaken for Pakistanis and Afghans, being tortured and hurt. I couldn't just sit back. I decided to take this topic, make it into a movie that would have everyone sit up and notice these incidents," he says. The movie is inspired by real life incidents and portrays the tribulations of those whose stories were not highlighted. "I started writing the script. In this process, I met up the families of Sikhs who were affected because of 9/11. My heart melted and thus came about I Am Singh." If you think the word easy has something to do with the making of the movie, Puneet Issar has something shockingly interesting to add, "The script was ready, but no one was willing to finance this project. My first movie Garv was with superstar Salman Khan, despite this I was turned down by five producers in Mumbai. I was skeptical when I approached Peshaura Singh Thind in Chandigarh. I was surprised when he said he was ready to invest more than what I had expected, provided I do full justice to the topic," Puneet invites his producer on the dais. The seemingly quiet man sums up his involvement in a few words. "I had full faith in the subject. Besides, I could relate to it," says Peshaura Singh Thind. The mike returns to the man of the moment —Puneet Issar. The story continues, "Bollywood movies use Singh as a title to be famous, they use Sikh characters, but none of them have justified and portrayed them in the right manner. I have myself portrayed many Sikh characters, starting from Ratan Singh in Border, to a Sikh boxing coach in movie Aarya. I Am Singh is the story of the bravery of Sikhs, and the subject is the hero," he says taking us through the music of his movie and a surprise element called Mika. The singer has given a song, Dhol Wajda, for the movie. He sings as well as dances to the number and not to forget, poses for the photographers! Now, this is something — Mika can't live without publicity. The singer, however, has worked hard to call the shots. "When I sang saawan main lag gayi aag, which was a romantic number, I did not imagine that people would dance to it. Today, I am expected to give dance numbers to the industry each time," Mika too has stories to share, on success. "For the last 12 years, every year I am giving a hit to Bollywood. Dinkachika (Bodyguard), Jugni (Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster), Desi Boyz. I am choosy about the numbers I sing, however, I don't turn down friends like Salman bhai and Akshay." Movies are a 'no' for him; Mika would rather sing. And yes, he runs an NGO, Divine Light, in Delhi that offers free education to as many as 300 girls every month. Yet another Sikh, yet another tale!
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Spice girl!
Your reputation precedes you…the saying indeed carries some weight, however clichéd it may sound! For instance, when we were told that Payal Rohatgi will be the showstopper for a charity fashion show at Tao on a Sunday night, we had just one thing to say — Payal that hot bikini girl, who flirted outrageously with Rahul Mahajan in the reality show Bigg Boss!
We admit for once, it is not bad to give the benefit of doubt. As actors like Aryan Vaid, Priyanka Shah, Neeru Bajwa, Shriya Kishore walked for the Sanjana Jon show, celebrating the success of the Season 2 of Blenders Pride Punjab International Fashion Week and also promoting her cause 'Save the Girl Child', we pull out some spicy dough on Payal as she talks rather candidly. "I have more to myself than a pretty or a sexy body. And I think the industry has begun to realise this as well," Payal has a clean take on her sexy image. "I don't mind the image but you can't deny the fact that I am more than this." Well, Payal we would love to slot you as the 'substance girl of Bollywood' but we can't get over your blatant display of affection towards your politician friend Rahul Mahajan! "Despite everything I still maintained my dignity and character in Bigg Boss." Revelation, we have a revelation here! From one drama reality show to another, Payal is ready with yet another reality show this time. Expect the expected! "This reality show is based on a successful international reality show (like we did not know). I was shooting for it abroad for almost three months. This is going to portray a different side of me, how hardworking I am; how I can leave the luxuries and still manage to survive in all circumstances," she adds. You are making us laugh darling! Other side of you? Are you joining Anna Hazare? "Look, I don't have any godfather in Bollywood; I have survived on my own. I have achieved name and fame, which doesn't come easy (that's the point). In Bollywood, you can survive only if you are part of a group, but I have managed to create a place for myself in the industry." Upcoming ventures? "I am doing this reality show and rest I am reading a few scripts." We should give some people benefit of doubt till they validate the saying — reputation precedes you! jasmine@tribunemail.com
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History beckons
We start asking Vikramjit Virk a pile of questions; he starts answering first in English and then in Hindi. Finally, he asks, "Do you understand Punjabi?" The discussion gets comfortable thereafter. Vikramjit, who belongs to Karnal, shares notes on his career with a touch Punjabiyat at Hotel Hometel, Chandigarh, on Monday.
How it all began It all began on July 19, 2003, my birthday, when I walked the ramp at the Lakme India Fashion Week in Mumbai. Later, I did modelling for four year, shuttling between Mumbai and Punjab. I turned into an actor in 2009 with the movie Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se in a negative role of a British police officer. After this I shot for a South Indian movie, Casanova; again a lead villain's role. It is due for release on December 25 this year. While shooting for this movie, I got a call for the serial Shobha Somnath Ki, where I am playing the historical character of Mahmud Ghaznavi. A Punjabi movie I am doing will be released on February 10, 2012. First take on serials As I was already into movies before I opted for the serial, I thought I would just stick to the former. However, when I heard the script of this serial from the producer and writer Vikas Kapoor, I was convinced. Muscle power While I was modelling, I had a skinny build just like any other model. But for the character of Mahmud Ghaznavi, I had to work out and gain 15 kilos. All this was very interesting though, as I am a desi munda who has always enjoyed outdoor games like kabaddi. Mahmud Ghaznavi — the character I love my character a lot - powerful and wicked; I have the knack for negative roles. The character needs to speak Urdu, so I took diction classes. I have to ride a horse and perform action scenes with a seven-kilo sword, but all this is so amazing. The warrior effect It's not an easy task to portray a warrior with that 15 kg costume; you are all sweating but have to give your best shot. The character is a serious one and I dedicatedly go to the gym to maintain my fitness levels. Small vs big screen There is a lot of difference in both of them. While the former needs regular shoots of ten to twelve hours for the daily telecast, in movies one gets a lot of chance to improve due to the long gestation period. The hardwork is the same though. In the pipeline I'm doing one Punjabi and one South-Indian film along with the serial. For the future I would like to work in movies, but if another good role comes by in a serial, I am game for it as it's all about acting!
sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com
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Apple parade
Kandla Nijhowne You see Kinnauri ones, Kashmiri ones, golden hued orbs, green glossies and even apples that decidedly have a bright pink blush on their cheeks! The range of apples in the fruit stalls keeps swelling! Of course, they’re all good to eat but they are also conducive to morphing into other exotic delicacies. We all read about converting the good old apple into pies, chutneys, and murabbas but how about trying a homely, fragrant rabree? It’s lighter than the traditional one and the flavour is refreshingly different. I like to use the golden delicious variety for this dreamy dish, for I love its tartness which balances perfectly the sweet density of the rabree. Apple rabree 1 litre full cream milk ½ cup sugar 2 medium apples 3 tbsp almonds, sliced 3 cardamoms, powdered 1 tbsp chopped pistachio (optional) 1 tsp rosewater Few strands of saffron (optional) Method Use a thick bottomed karhaai for this task. Pour the milk in and reduce it on low heat, stirring constantly. Add sugar after 15-20 minutes. Continue to cook till the milk is halved in volume and thick and creamy Add saffron Peel and grate the apples and tip them into the milk. Bring mixture to a quick rolling boil, then remove from heat. When slightly cool, stir in the cardamom powder and rosewater. Serve chilled, garnished with the almond slivers and pistachio. (Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)
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Trust your man
Parvesh Rana I am a 29-year-old married woman. One of my colleagues keeps hitting on my husband who works in the same organisation. She is also trying to create differences between us. How should I deal with this? Bhavneet Kaur, Chandigarh Don’t worry. First talk to your husband and try to understand the situation. If you are still in doubt, confront your colleague, politely yet firmly. If she is smart, she will definitely understand your point. Don’t create unnecessary problems in your married life. Trust your husband because a marriage is based on it. I have been married for two years, and I am already facing problems. Being a woman, a lot is expected of me. My husband has changed as a person. He gets irritated very soon, and he doesn’t seem to be interested in even knowing me. What should I do? Namrata Singh, Panchkula Patience and adjustments are two important ingredients of a successful marriage. So, be patient and don’t jump to conclusions. Give yourself time, and wait for a while before you decide anything. (Rana is a television anchor and Bollywood actor)
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The role of the left arm
Jesse Grewal Two of the oft-repeated thoughts that most golfers are taught are to keep the left arm straight and the head down. Both these thoughts are very destructive and lead to many problems. A straight left arm means a rigid arm to many people and that reduces the swing speed and also leads to a slice. Replace the thought of a straight left arm to a comfortably extended left arm. The follow through action of the swing is a mirror image of the backswing. During the backswing the right arm folds at the elbow as the shoulders turn. During the follow through the left arm softens and folds at the elbow thereby allowing the club to ‘release’. The right arm rolls over the left which squares the club face (picture 3). If the left arm is rigid and locked at the elbow this closing action does not happen and the club face remains open leading to a slice. The set up plays a significant role to achieve this comfortably extended position of the left arm. If we keep our shoulders level and take the grip the right arm has to straighten and extend to place the right hand lower than the left while taking the grip and the left arm ends up bent (picture 2). To extend the left arm, the spine has to be tilted away from the target which raises the left shoulder and brings the right shoulder lower. While we do this the hands move forward and are on the inside of the left leg when viewed from the front (picture 1). Ensure that you do not lock your arms at the elbows. The elbows would be in the same position as they would be if you clap your hands with the arms relatively extended. (Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently Director, National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)
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STAR TRACK
"It is difficult to survive in the industry. You have to go through so much in this career. You have to be successful, but if your movies don't work you are sad and then there comes a burden to do much better. You have to keep working harder and harder, emotionally it disturbs a lot," said Hema. "In other professions, it is not noticeable. Here you are immediately in the eyes of people, that's why I was not very keen. I wanted her to do something else, something like interior designing, or be a dancer, but she wanted to act and everyone should be given an opportunity. She is indeed a very fine actress," she added. Hema re-launched Esha with her directorial venture Tell Me O Kkhuda but the film could not make a lasting impression on the audiences. — IANS
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Shades of grey
"We
have innately bad human behaviours that sometimes we can explain and
justify. It's easy to say someone's an idiot because they had
this, this and this happen to them, so we have to forgive them. But
what if someone was just an idiot? That's interesting to me,"
Theron said. When asked about whether she would be interested in
playing the Nazi dictator Hitler she said, "We definitely are
capable of some thing that will scare you, given the right
circumstances. You have to be brave enough to say he's a human being.
And on that level, we're all like him. It doesn't mean that you're
saying what he did was right, but you've got to admit that he's from the
same breed as all of us," she added. Theron will star alongside
Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth in Snow White and the Huntsman,
scheduled for release next year. She is also currently filming the
Ridley Scott Sci-Fi epic Prometheus.— PTI
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All is not well
Now a delay in plans for Moss and her rocker husband to move into an 8 million pounds new home is causing further strain. The newlyweds should already be settled in at the townhouse in Highgate in North London as it was due to be ready last month. But a number of setbacks during its 2.5 million pounds renovation mean they are unlikely to move in before Christmas. "The house is causing a lot of problems and a great deal of tension between them. They were meant to move in last month but Jamie has been away on tour and the building works have run over. Kate has been complaining that she has been left to sort everything out, from dealing with the architect to planning permission. She thought this is what husbands are for," a friend said. Hince, 42, was on tour in South America and is now in Europe, so Moss has been liaising with Camden Council, which has just granted planning permission for CCTV cameras, along with a steam room and a basement gym. — PTI
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Kodak moment
Jones, 80, was presented with his Oscar on stage by Ben Kingsley. The actor, currently starring with Vanessa Redgrave in Driving Miss Daisy, said he was "plain gobsmacked" as he accepted the award. Jones, whose film credits include Patriot Games and The Hunt for Red October, remains best known as the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars. Singer Mary J Blige paid tribute to Jones as she took the stage, delivering a rousing rendition of the Oscar-winning song Can You Feel the Love Tonight? from The Lion King, for which Jones lent his inimitable voice to the character of King Mufasa. Smith, known in the industry as the godfather of make-up was also given an honorary Oscar. He won an Oscar in 1984 for his work on Amadeus and also worked on The Exorcist, Taxi Driver and The Deer Hunter. A video tribute highlighting Winfrey's work was shown, at the end of which Winfrey had tears in her eyes. She received a standing ovation and a kiss from longtime boyfriend Stedman Graham, with whom she rarely appears in public. —PTI
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The final countdown
"I will act for three more years only! I've really enjoyed the producer side and getting stories to the plate that may have had a harder time otherwise," Pitt said. The actor also said that his aim has always been of being at peace and happiness is overrated. "I think happiness is overrated. Sometimes you're happy, sometimes you're not. There's too much pressure to be happy. I know I will be happy sometimes and I won't be at times. Being at peace is more of a goal for me," Pitt added. — PTI
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If wishes were horses
The actress is trying to change her on-screen image by playing a superwoman in Krissh 3, which is a Bollywood's version of Wonder Woman-meets-Catwoman-meets-Supergirl. However, when asked what is the one superpower she would herself wish to have, the actress said that she would like to stop people from talking about her. — ANI
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Like mother, like daughter
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Jay Sean comes clean on PC
"We're just friends… I wrote some songs for her album, so hopefully she'll take them," he was quoted as telling a 'tabloid!'. He may not be dating the former Miss World but he does have a woman in his life. "I think I understand women pretty well by now. I've been around enough of them," he said. "I've had a lot of long-term relationships. I'm fun to be with, I'd hope. I don't take things too seriously even though my life is bonkers. "They experience all the fun things but at the end of the day I still enjoy going home and watching a film. It doesn't always need to be popping bottles in nightclubs, we can do that, and it's fun but I enjoy the slightly normal things too and that's important," he added. — ANI
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Style-o-meter
Everyone loves the red carpet and award functions are most awaited as stars can show off their best attires and dress up. We take a look at some of the leading TV actresses and their fashion quotient
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Dream world
Television actress Priyal Gor, who debuted as Mona in Zee TV’s Ram Milaye Jodi and later she was seen in Ammaji Ki Galli, has got a new project. She will be playing the lead role in Shrithy Arya’s new show Dekha Ek Khwaab on Sony TV. In the show, her character Muniya lives in a chawl and dreams of being a princess.
Excited about her new show, Priyal Gor says, “I feel it’s the story of every common girl who has her own dreams. Muniya stays in a chawl but dreams of becoming a princess and one fine day her dream gets fulfilled when she finds out that she is Princess Maanyata. This brings a turning point in her life. The show is completely different from today’s kitchen politics or any social issues. I am happy that finally I have got something different to play. I hope that the audiences will love this show and my character Muniya.” — HRM
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The year ahead
If your birthday is November 15...
There can be a relationship that brings much joy into your life and a connection that puts a bounce in your step. More freedom may be necessary in existing partnerships. Stale or lifeless routines and dynamics in your relationships will no longer be tolerated. Your social life continues to be strong in 2012, but there is more focus on quality now. Communication and learning continue to be areas of evolution and change in your life. Your powers of influence run exceptionally high and others are truly listening to what you have to say. You may be communicating about matters that you previously kept very much to yourself, and this can be felt as a relief. You may also find great pleasure in research or other serious study. Shifts in the distribution and sources of income are also likely this year. Timely discussion of direction and goals is the key at the beginning of the 2012, whether with your boss, subordinates or team. Don’t shy away from taking charge; others will be either grateful or impressed that you’re driving the process. Then, position yourself to contribute to the creative aspects of projects and planning. Work autonomously as relationships with those in your midst won’t be great. Do things your way. Time is on your side. Getting there should be half the fun. You can avoid frustration if you reassure every one of your true intentions. Investments made in 2011 will bring gradual profits. Your ability to stand out in public would bring you popularity and recognition. Friends may be emotionally needy, often biting into your personal or family time at the last minute. Your health would generally be fine throughout. You should try to make best use of your mental abilities and highly charged enthusiasm. Mood: Too easily distracted at times. Compatible signs: Scorpio and Capricorn. Lucky colours: Yellow and Sky blue. Lucky days: Tuesday and Wednesday. Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 21, 25, 80 Lucky flower: Zinnia. Lucky gem: Turquoise
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Astro turf
ARIES: Enjoy a quiet morning and get into any artistic projects you have around your home. Let your imagination run free. Rent a bunch of movies and enjoy. Make no plans of
travelling. TAURUS: Today you will find people generally hard to pin down. Buying and selling is a salient feature. Do not bury disturbing emotions. Conflicting energies make this a good day for recharging your batteries. Tarot message: It is best to have a clear perspective. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 51. GEMINI: Your card “The Sword” signifies that enduring relationships can be formed with new people who live at a distance. Sticking to your regular job is the best way of boosting your reserves. CANCER: Concentrate on your career path or your business. Be flexible in your thinking. Look at a problem from different angles and you can find a simple, albeit unexpected solution. LEO: Today attention revolves around your home, property, family and long range decisions. You will have to modify your plans. Your determination and thoroughness will ensure success. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. VIRGO: Hobbies will give you much satisfaction. Discuss investments. Confidence and self-esteem are on the rise. Put forward your ideas and enjoy the positive response. LIBRA: A fortunate day for romance. Avoid gossiping; because it can spoil your chance of success. Sportsmen should get more exercise to keep fit. A very friendly vibe makes it easy to broach subjects. Tarot message: Try to be active in encashing financial opportunities. Lucky
colour: Yellow. SCORPIO: Go along with the wishes of your family members. Do not be too demanding from loved ones. A more comfortable lifestyle will result from a pay raise, boosting your confidence. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. SAGITTARIUS: The day will become rather sensitive for marital relationships.Do not take on chores that would take you down physically. Appointments and meetings could fill up your day. making it necessary to keep your phone turned off. Tarot message: Use your judgments. Lucky colour: Crimson.Magic number: 29. CAPRICORN: Partners may not agree with your plans. No need to put your hard earned money on stake. A positive outlook on life and general good feelings are on the anvil. AQUARIUS: Hopes fill your heart. Patience and hard work pays. Focus on leadership. Be prepared for unusual invitations and expectations. You can make new acquaintances and enjoy visiting new places. Tarot message: Try to relax in the middle of the week. PISCES: Surprising events can lead to a major rethink on what you are doing with your life. Love and romance are highlighted. Avoid alcohol and drugs and you will avoid doing anything stupid. |
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Working in Bollywood is a demanding job, says Hema Malini adding that this is the reason why she was not very keen on her daughter Esha Deol joining filmdom as an actress.
Actress Charlize Theron says she has always been interested in playing villainous characters. Theron, 36, will next be seen helming the role of the Evil Queen in the dark fairytale adaptation, Snow White and the Huntsman, said a publication.
Tension is growing between supermodel Kate Moss and her new husband Jamie Hince less than five months into their marriage. The 37-year-old catwalk queen has already told friends that she is suffering from marriage shock, reported a publication online.
TV mogul Oprah Winfrey, actor James Earl Jones and makeup artist Dick Smith have been presented with honorary Oscars. Winfrey, 57, nominated for a best supporting actress Oscar 25 years ago for her role in The Color Purple, received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her humanitarian work, said a publication.
Actor Brad Pitt says his days as the leading man are numbered as he plans to quit acting for a career behind the camera when he turns 50. The 47-year-old actor, who raises six children with partner Angelina Jolie, said he might take up direction when he steps out of the limelight, reported a publication.
Kangana Ranaut is so fed up with people talking about her that she wishes she had the superpower to magically zip people's mouths.
Pop diva Madonna ensures her daughter Lourdes does not become a lazy writer by re-checking the teenager's blog before she publishes it. Lourdes pens regular online notes for the mother-daughter duo's fashion line Material Girl, but Madonna insists on overseeing the copy, reported a publication. "I proof-read her blogs and edit them and give her a hard time when I think she's being a lazy writer," Madonna said.— PTI
Jay Sean has finally come clean on his relationship with Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra. The R'n'B singer cleared up all rumours of a romantic connection with the classic line of 'just friends'.
Vidya Sinha
(November 15,1947 Mumbai) began modelling and her first movie was Raja Kaka opposite Kiran Kumar which was followed by Choti Si Baat (1975) and Pati Patni Aur Woh (1977). She is currently seen on prime time soaps like Zaara, Bhabhi etc. According to her horoscope, her married life is likely to remain disturbed.