The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - The Tribune Lifestyle

	A gift to remember The trend of 'wedding return gifts' is slowly but surely catching up Mona Payals (anklets) as return gifts on mehandi ceremony, golden clutches on reception and pearl necklaces on wedding ….like everything else related to a wedding, return gifts are also getting bigger and better. Gone are the days when those who attended a wedding had to do with shagun and sweets (relatives would get clothes as well). Today, it's trendy to give something new, something unusual. There was a time when mementos with bride and groom's engraved names were a rage, and so were goodies baskets. Today it's anything from silver to pearls. Veena Mohindra, who recently hosted the wedding of her daughter Aashima, thought long and hard before selecting a return gift. "I really wanted to give something useful and something that's appropriate for the occasion. First, I thought of duppattas with golden kinaries (borders), then of silver key-rings, which were not available in bulk. There were many things in between before I settled for silver payals," says Veena who gave payals to every woman who attended the mehandi ceremony that she hosted at her residence in Sector 10. "I really got a lovely response from my guests. Payals are something that a girl or a woman in any age group can wear, I am glad that my thoughtful effort was appreciated," says Veena. Shikha from Sector 15 prepared not only for her own big day, but also gifts for her close friends. "I did not want my mom to give simple shaguns and sweets to my friends who came for my weddings. So, when I shopped I also took time to choose clutches for my close friends. Though the colour was golden for all of them, I chose the shapes and sizes keeping in mind their likes and dislikes," says Shikha. If it is a time-consuming, challenging task for the family hosting a wedding to choose return gifts, it's even challenging for those in the business as well. Ashish Satija from Gujari-20 is a busy man during the wedding season. "Personalised gifts have become very popular from the past three to four years," says Ashish, taking a minute off from his phone that doesn't stop ringing. He fills in the details after he finishes the conversation on the phone. "This party on the phone was asking for swastikas. Everyone is looking for something different, but it's not always that we are able to fulfil bulk demands." From specially engraved silver coins to real pearl necklaces, people choose anything and everything under the sun keeping in mind the budget. Rashmeet Kapoor, a wedding planner from Elegencia-17, shares the latest in market, "What is really in rage is clicking pictures of the guests as they enter the venue, get them quickly developed and framed as return gifts. Bags printed with a thanks quote are also popular." Well, when it comes to a wedding, everything is acceptable…no occasion is bigger or grander! mona@tribunemail.com
	Hair we go! With winter, comes an array of not only trendy clothes but also hairstyles that you can experiment with Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra From tight locks to loose curls and sleek buns, winter brings along not only a change in wardrobe trends but also hairstyles. And that extends to haircare and colour as well. Well, if you are looking for a winter hairstyle trend, it starts with angles, edges, cuts and feminine styles. From pretty pixies to sassy spikes, there is the layered look for the contemporary woman and subtle, tapered and choppy look for the ones who like to experiment! Though hairstyle trends are endless, let's start with the practical ones that come rolling from across the globe. Braided hairstyle is the most common one for the season. Well, there is nothing more practical, romantic and easy-to-do than a braided hairstyles (our mommies have been doing it for ages to the little girls). "Braided hairstyle is definitely ruling the hair trends on ramps and since it's the weddings season for many girls who have long hair, we recommend braids. It's not the simple plait that we are making, but getting creative we add details to it and complement it with a fashionable hair accessory. If girls want it to be different, then twin braids with parting in the middle, milkmaid braids and side-swept braided hairstyles are also a hit this season," says Azeem Khan, style director, Stylo Unisex Salon in Sector 19, Chandigarh. He adds, "That's not all sleek ballerina buns, voguish twists to messy top knots and deep-side swept hairstyles are also doing well." Bang on target Bangs have once again made a strong comeback, so it's the fringed hairstyles that would be in this winter. "Centre-parting is another trend that would be seen this winter as is the case each time. Alongside the long and feminine hairstyles, short pixie cuts are also 'in' this season. And the last but not the least is another Fall/Winter 2011-2012 hairstyle trend — ponytail. No matter what kind of ponytail you choose — low and a bit messy or high and tight - be sure your hairstyle meets the fashion requirements of the season," says a hair-stylist from Tress Lounge in Sector 9. Colour code Hair colour is one big trend that has almost changed the way women look. Though there are varied conceptions and misconceptions about hair colour, it is all about making right choices. "Rich dark browns, caramel highlights, platinum natural blondes and fire engine red are some colours for this season," says Anju from Styl studio in Panchkula. She adds, "Dark Brunettes is another colour that is a hit with women this season, but it's the shades of brown that never go out of trend. For long wavy hair, golden brown shade is also in," she adds. Hair care From grandma's recipe of rubbing warm coconut oil to your scalp to sarson ke tel ki malish, everyone has their own recipe for the perfect locks. But as winter comes along, it's not only our skin that needs care, but hair too demands attention. And for that, Betty Nangia from Betty's holistic and skin care clinic in Sector 8 suggests, "Dry and dehydrated locks are a big problem in winter. So, one should massage the hair with virgin coconut oil or olive oil; thrice a week massage is recommended for healthy hair. Other than that, one should use very mild shampoos and warm water to wash hair. Blow drying is a big 'no' in winter as it dries the hair. Well, that's not all; you should also include nuts in your daily diet. Walnut is good for hair, while amla, green salads, sprouts, radish, cabbage, lettuce leaves are also mane-healers."
	Cure diabetes with low calories Here's some good news for people suffering from Type 2 diabetes -- eating a low-calorie diet everyday for just four months could cure the disease, a new study has revealed. A team at Leiden University in the Netherlands says its findings may revolutionise the treatment of the lifelong condition with no cure, and caused by pancreas not producing enough insulin to break down glucose in the blood. In their study, researchers found that diabetics who slashed the calories they ate each day actually had a far more significant improvement in the condition and in their general health than medication offered. They no longer needed life-saving insulin, the level of dangerous fat built up around their hearts was significantly reduced and their cardiac function improved. "It is striking to see how a relatively simple intervention of a very low-calorie diet effectively cures Type 2 diabetes. Moreover, the effects are long term, illustrating the potential of this method. Lifestyle interventions may have more powerful beneficial cardiac effects than medication in these patients," the 'Daily Express' quoted the study's lead author Sebastiaan Hammer as saying. The discovery has major implications as diabetics and the obese are particularly at risk of suffering a potentially fatal heart attack or being struck down by debilitating heart disease, say the researchers. — PTI
	celeb point A different role Divya Dutta Some of my best films have been with UTV — Welcome to Sajjanpur, Dilli 6 and my friend Pinto. And now the next one is, Heroine, which has been directed by Madhur Bhandarkar. I have known Madhur ever since I began my career and I have loved his cinema, be it Chandni Bar, Page 3 or Fashion. I think his nuances add so much to the roles. So I've wanted to work with him for a while, till I got called for Heroine, the most talked about film today. The role given to me is something I've never done before. On the first day of the shoot yesterday, it seemed that the entire media had descended on the sets. There was Kareena Kapoor, whom I met for the first time. Incidentally, I am shooting with her sister Karishma in Vikram Bhatt's film! The first day of shoot was with Kareena and Arjun Rampal. It seemed like a celebration on the sets. The much-awaited film finally started and how! Good luck Madhur.
	Master Chef Meal in a bowl Kandla Nijhowne As winter slowly creeps in and the sun bids us an earlier adios, I love spending the longer evenings watching a good movie or leaping leopards or prancing primates on Animal planet. On such occasions, I take delight in a simple, satisfying meal, easy to dig into, without the fuss of placing mats, forks and knives. My husband complains since he is so proper, but I pretend to be deaf as well as dumb, ignoring his scowls! My favourite remains a wholesome, hearty corn and potato chowder with a sprinkling of spring onion (and diced chicken or bacon if you're inclined towards flesh). It's great to dunk in a slice of bread into the soupy consistency and transport it straight into your gob. Hearty Potato and Corn Chowder 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes ½ cup diced carrots ½ cup diced celery ¼ cup chopped onion 1 tsp salt ¼ cup butter 2 cups milk ¼ cup maida (or a combination of atta and maida) 300 gm corn kernels 1 cup grated cheese ¼ cup snipped spring onion greens Salt and pepper to taste Method In a large pot, simmer together the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion and salt with enough water to cover all the bits. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Combine the butter, milk and flour in a small sauce-pan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until it turns into a smooth and thick sauce. Add corn and heat through briefly till it tenderises. (This should only take a minute) Divide the grated cheese into individual bowls and top up with ladles full of the hot chowder. Swirl through to disperse the cheese. It will melt by itself with the heat of the soup. Sprinkle some freshly cracked pepper on the top and serve with some buttered bread or dinner rolls. (Kandla is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)
	Remembering Ustad Sultan Khan 2011 seems to be one of the worst years for artistes. We have lost so many soulful souls, legends who will never be back and we can only listen to their recordings now. And one of the best sarangi maestros we lost now is Ustaad Sultan Khan. Sultan Khan was famous for playing sarangi but he also became famous because of his vocals and has sung some wonderful songs like Piya Basanti, Albela Sajan and so many others. He was very famous among his collegues because of his friendly nature. Ustaad Sultan Khan was just 71 years old. He died because of kidney failure. He was also a diabetic and had been battling renal problems for some time. He would often visit a hospital for dialysis. And finally we lost the soul. With him also resting in peace, Indian music has seen many maestros going away. So we ask his collegues, musicians who has worked with him about him and his talent. Magical player Abhijeet Pohankar (Keyboard artist): I think we have lost a great legendary soul today which can be never be replaced by anyone else. No one can replace the talent of Ustaad Sultan Khan. Sultan saab was very close to my father Ajay Pohankar via whom I met Sultanji. He was an easy-going person but not well for a while I used to call him chacha and he has taught me many things in life. He was very humble and down to earth. When my album Piya Bawri released he called me to his place to sing as he loved my vocals so I used to go to his house and play for 30-40 minutes whenever I had the time. He loved the song Piya Bawri and his album Piya Basanti also became such a hit. He was a living legend. The moment he used to touch sarangi, magically the tune used to play. I remember I once attended a concert of him and Zakir Hussain and it was just mind blowing. He played Raga vachaspati in that concert. You know in classical music when an artist starts he/she warm up for 10-15 minutes but Sultaan saab was not like that the moment he started playing the magic could be heard. It’s a great loss to the Indian music fraternity. King of melody Prateek Chaudhuri (Sitar Player): Khansaab was a legend even when he started his career. He has these versatile qualities in him. He was, no doubt, the best sarangi player along with that he was a great singer too. He was very knowledgeable about music. 2011 is the worst year for artistes as we lost so many people from music fraternity. Being so famous and having so many fans Ustaad ji was very down to earth. I have seen him in concerts where he used to chat with his fans, whoever loved his music and that are what makes you an artiste. He was a badshah of sur the moment he played the sarangi. His voice was different and unique. May his soul rest in peace. Young fan Akriti Kakkar: If any youth has attended his concert, he becomes his fan. He was one person who was very entertaining. I have sung with him many times and attended his concerts and I loved them. I recently launched an album also with him. He is so talented that when you work with him you realise what he is, what kind of talent he has. We will be missing a great talent. Lost a friend Debu Chaudhuri (sitar player): I had a very long association with Ustaad Sultan Khan. His younger brother Naseer Khan who passed away long back introduced me to Sultan in 1961 which means our friendship is almost 50 years old. Imagine we spent days and nights together. Just two days back I called his house to know about his health as he was not keeping well and his son told me that he can’t speak. I thought I would go to Mumbai within a few days to meet him. Who knew he would pass on so early. He was such a good friend that whenever he used to come to Delhi he used to meet me no matter if he has come down for one day. This year has been the worst year for musicians. I don’t have words to describe my sorrows. Sultan was such a great player. I am yet to come across others like him. The moment he played the sarangi the entire atmosphere would change. One of his dhun which I always loved it was a lorri- so ja re, it’s a memorable asset for me. We were such good friends. His nature was totally different and yet very simple, very friendly and down to earth. He was a great follower of Peer baba. He was a gem and I am very sorry to say we lost him and I don’t know whether we will see in future, somebody as great as him. Loving soul Kavita Krishnamurti: He was a wonderful human being and I believe to become a great person and good at your art you have to have a great soul which Ustaad Sultan Khan had. I sung with him in Albela Sajan and was stunned by his talent. The moment he touched the sarangi it just set the mood. He was a great singer too though he was not a trained singer but he loved singing. We have lost a great music maestro.
	All-praise for Anushka! Ranveer Singh is very fond of Anushka Sharma and he makes his feelings quite obvious in an adorable way. Anushka Sharma She is one of my closest friends and has become part of my inner circle. I trust her, I confide in her. She is such an amazing actress and she taught me how to make eye contact and act spontaneously. When we started shooting Band Baajaa Baaraat, I didn’t look into her eyes but she caught that and made me do that. She is my senior and I respect her. She has made me a better actor and a better person. I think she is absolutely amazing. Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl I play a con man who cons women for money and then three of his victims gang up on him to teach him a lesson and that is where Anushka’s character steps in. I think it is very cool that my second film is releasing on the exact weekend as my debut film. I don’t know if it was planned but I love it and the fact that most of the crew is the same and the cast too, with new additions. Maneesh Sir has kept the pace of the movie up throughout because that is what creates excitement in this genre. Getting choosy I am very choosy about my films because I put in months of hard-work and so does the team so the films and scripts have to be worth it. I absorb myself in the movie. I had to do workshops to get out of my Band Baajaa Baaraat character and then I immersed myself in Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl. I don’t talk to my family for days and now they understand how I work. So the film has to be worth all my work. After Band Baajaa Baaraat, I got the exact same roles but I turned them down because I want to do something different. I heard there is a movie coming out called Bittoo Boss, VDO Shooter! Sonakshi Sinha We know each other a little bit and we are doing Vikramaditya Motwane’s film together. Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl releases on December 9. — HRM
	Set to steal hearts Naseeruddin Shah is all set for the release of The Dirty Picture and the actor is excited about his role as he says, "I can see audiences are very excited about this film. Actually this is the first film I am seeing people are excited to see my character. So I am waiting for the release. My chemistry with Vidya worked in Ishqiya and that has attracted audiences towards this film too." The Dirty Picture When Milan narrated me the script I was amazed and I knew that I would be doing the role. Because the film has a very strong character and each and every character is strong and has something to say or show. You will see how people are. I play an actor who like others, loves Vidya in the film. It will be one of the memorable films of my career. Bold but not dirty The tone of the film is bold and provocative. But it does not cross the line into vulgarity. Vulgarity is always subjective. The film is bold in terms of language also and few people might feel it as dirty and take it as an offence. The concept is bold but at the same time entertaining and it’s about one person’s life: how she struggles and meets different kind of people in her life. Vidya Balan Because Vidya and I have worked together the chemistry and comfort level was there. Yes doing the scenes was a little awkward for Vidya but I have been working since so long so I take everything as part of my job but then she gave her best. She is one of the best actresses in Bollywood and she has the Indian bold image. I don’t think anyone else could have done this role so beautifully. While watching the film you can see the lust, anger and the pain in Vidya’s eyes while playing the character. She is truly an unbelievable actress. Milan Luthria I did the film because of Milan as he is a great director. I asked him whether I am playing a saint or a letch and he said your character is of a letch. And I know Milan is great making films on such characters. He has a vision and he knows how to give them shape. He knows what he wants and even though I am a senior actor, he tells me clearly what he wants. Wonderful year ahead I think this is the best phase of my career as I am getting all good character roles. I have Michael coming up which is again an interesting film with Anurag Kashyap. I play a cop. This character is chucked from his police job. Unknowingly, he commits a crime just to offer everything to his son. It will be another interesting film of my career.
	chatter box It may be by fans or journalists, actors are asked wacky, stupid, funny and irritating questions by everyone. But what are the questions they never really want to answer or find really stupid to answer? We quiz these actors about some really haywire and funny questions they are asked... Bizarre Talk Karan Tacker I really find it stupid and annoying when people ask me about my link-ups and dates. Just because I am working with someone or bonding well, it doesn’t mean that I have an affair with them. It’s one of the most bizarre questions that I keep getting asked. I never really respond to questions about personal life, so it hardly matters. However, one funny question I keep getting asked is on my Facebook account. People keep writing on my wall if it’s a real account or a fake one. That’s one question, I never want to answer. (Laughs) Linked up: Karan Tacker Kritika Kamra One stupid question that I get asked is, “Is your hair real?” Otherwise, people usually ask me when I am getting married. It’s funny how they are more concerned about my marriage than my parents. I don’t get asked whacky questions because I am not Rakhi Sawant or something. She is the one who has her ‘intelligent’ answers. I am very normal. One question that I never want to answer is what’s your fitness regime? I don’t have a regime and I honestly consider myself as the fittest. It does take some effort to maintain a good body. Faking it: Kritika Kamra Anas Rashid I find it really stupid when people ask me, “How are you feeling now?” I mean I can’t understand what I am supposed to answer to that. Also, it really irritates me when others ask me, “When are you getting married?” Being an actor and working in a daily soap, we don’t even get time for close friends and family. How are we supposed to find time for marriage and love? One question that I never really want to answer is about my childhood. Like how was your childhood, how did you spend it? I really don’t like discussing as I was a discarded kid. But one day, I will mention about it in my biography.” Feeling right: Anas Rashid Aishwarya Sakuja One stupid question that I keep getting asked if I was named after Aishwarya Rai. I am not really that old. Also, I keep getting asked that if I am really like my character Toasty in real life. I find it really stupid but at the same time funny. Coming from a modelling profession, one question that I would never want to answer is, “What am I going to do for world peace?” (Laughs). That will just invite cliched responses. Name games: Aishwarya Sakuja Krsytle D’Souza I recently went to a wedding where I was asked, “Where is your sister Maanvi?” as if she is my real sister and we go out everywhere. I found it really funny. Personally, one question that I keep getting asked is, “When are you getting married?” Guys, I am just 21-year-old. Please stop asking me about my marriage. The question that I never want to answer is, “What’s your weight?” Marriage issues: Krystle D’Souza Mohnish Behl One stupid question I keep getting asked is why I am doing such a sad character in Kuch Toh Log Kahenge. It sounds funny in Hindi when they ask, “Aap aisa kaise kar sakte hai?” I wish it was in my control but I just do what I am asked to do and what script writer writes. But otherwise, personally or professionally, my life is an open book. I have nothing to hide or get irritated by any question. Sad Effect: Mohnish Behl
	ASTRO TURF P Khurrana ARIES: Do not get into arguments with elders. You will get what you expect. You could have mood swings. Whatever it is that is looming over you, the fear is far greater than what will actually happen. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 36. TAURUS: Keep your spirits up and put forward a cheerful face. Generous and giving vines are a big influence today. You are likely to attract basically happy and positive people with whom you can have fun. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 55. GEMINI: The card “Two of Cups” promises many opportunities on financial fronts. Overall day ends very nicely. Breeze through your chores early before any interruptions interfere with the beauty of your surroundings. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 32. CANCER: Tricky day if you are hoping for spectacular results. It would be best to keep new ideas under wraps. Beware of a tricky colleague. Talk to your partner and children about the plans for the day. Tarot message: Wait a while everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 40. LEO: Secret meeting with influential people will go off particularly well. This bodes well for financial matters and makes it a good day to seek a loan or other financial support. Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 52. VIRGO: “The Queen of Cups” opens the door for a new job offer. Avoid making partnership deals. Today will be a good day for introducing your beloved to your parents. Work out your next moves logically and rationally. Tarot message: Leave things open ended for best results. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 58. LIBRA: A fine day for starting something new. Discussion behind closed doors could work out well. Envy can be a problem, so get advice but keep your real plans under your hat. Tarot message: Feel good about yourself and prepare yourself for a mental battle. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 42. SCORPIO: Your card “Ten of Pentacles’’ revels that your plans are likely to meet with approval. An emotional mood can interfere with your judgments and decisions, so make sure you have all the facts first. Tarot message: Health of elderly member at home will need looking after. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 26. SAGITTARIUS: You draw “The Lovers” so as such new attractions are likely to be serious. Romance is highlighted. It’s time to polish your humor and seize the opportunities. Tarot message: This is not a bad time to open up new doors that could lead you in a more lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 62. CAPRICORN: Mutually held funds must not be disturbed without your consent. Your ego is not likely to be so strong, giving you more sensitivity to the world around you. Be careful when it comes to lending money. Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at work place. Lucky colour: Aqua. Magic number: 44. AQUARIUS: You may be under some stress this morning. Do not attempt to get new plans going. Work behind the scenes. You and your co-workers are on different wavelengths. Tarot message: You can stabilize your financial situation if you make property investments. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 60. PISCES: You will have to watch your temper if harmony is going to maintain. Give a little more attention to the spiritual side of your life now. Go over your business accounts. Consider updating your budget. Tarot message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 30.
	THE YEAR AHEAD Madan Gupta Spatu If your birthday is November 30... You have profound and widely ranging thoughts, equipped with foresight and good judgement. You can be a witty conversationalist. You love to initiate new projects (excellent researchers) and have an urge to understand conceptions that are new. You think rapidly, are intuitive and often original, but are better at adapting than inventing. You are at your best while working with colleagues of different characters. You are strong-willed and good at organising a combination that gives you the ability to bring any project you undertake to a successful conclusion. Your generosity can be balanced by extreme care at handling resources. Love, children, pregnancy and creativity will be strongly supported from the end of January 2012 until early June 2012. Where it comes to your children, there might be the opportunity to bond with them happily or be good reason to feel proud of them! Creativity is also positively accented. At a deeper level, the energy working in your life during this time strongly suggests that you will have a deeper appreciation and love for yourself that will tend to reflect in the relationships around you. During this time it seems that you will be much more productive than usual – both in a physical and creative sense – making this an excellent time to start thinking about the possibility of beginning a hobby. Mood: Pumped, excited and in filled with clarity. Compatible signs: Capricorn, Sagittarius. Lucky colours: Purple, Dark grey. Lucky days: Monday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 3, 14, 51, 60. Lucky gem: Pukhraj, Sunehla, Pitambari. Lucky Flower: Daffodil. Sahabzade Irrfan Ali Khan also popularly known as Irrfan Khan (November 30, 1962 Jaipur) started as an actor in various television serials. He moved in to films and acted in numerous noted films like The Warrior, Maqbool, Haasil, The Namesake, A Mighty Heart, Life in a... Metro, Slumdog Millionaire and Billu. A pass out of the National School of Drama, he is also the recipient of 2011 Padma Shri award, the fourth highest civilian award in India. Irrfan has also been cast in The Amazing Spider-Man as Nels Van Adder. He also has extensive experience in theater and ad films.