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Funny side up!
“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it,” wrote Paulo Coelho. Kapil Sharma, who rose from a humble family in Punjab to make a mark as a comedian (well, he’s been winning almost every show for the last few seasons) is a firm believer in this. In Chandigarh on Thursday, garnering support for Star Ya Rockstar (he has made it to the finale), Kapil shares the funny as well as serious side of his life.
“I always wanted to be a singer,” says Kapil, who did theatre, comedy and is now finally living his dream of becoming a singer in Zee TV’s Star Ya Rockstar. “By God’s grace, I got the audiences’ love as a comedian; when I stepped into this show I had a belief that I will make to the finals as well,” says Kapil, who is looking for audiences’ votes to win the competition. Though not trained, Kapil has been appreciated as a singer both on comedy shows as well as at Star Ya Rockstar. “Much of what I sing has been influenced by the masters that I have listened to,” says Kapil, who looks up to Ghulam Ali, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Punjabi folk music. Punjab boasts of hundreds of new singers each month, but being one does not come easy. “I never had money to cut my own album as is the trend here,” he says. Now that he has made a mark as well as has money, Kapil wants to take it easy, “Yes, I have plans to cut my own album, but I want to polish my singing and take a slow but sure step at a time.” His success as a stand-up comedian has worked both for good and bad. “It gave me the much-needed money to survive, but being a stand up comedian stresses one’s vocal cords, which makes it difficult to sing,” he says. Kapil also wants to make a mark in the film industry. But it’s an absolute no to soap operas! “I have seen my co-workers after long days at soap sets. The work usually goes from 9 in the morning to 11 at night, and when some of my co-artistes show up on rehearsals with glittering eye shadows but long faces, I feel like giving them a 100 bucks and asking pehle kuch kha ke aa (go, eat something first).” Not money, it’s the compliments that Kapil thrives on as he shares one of his fond memories, “In Delhi, once a very old lady came to get a picture clicked saying, Teri vajah se mera BP theek rehta hai. One can’t buy such compliments even with crores.” And, who does Kapil look forward to when he needs to laugh, “Well, it’s my mum, a simple, sweet lady who in her innocence says stuff that makes me laugh. But to unwind, I listen to music; that’s what connects one to God,” says
Kapil.
mona@tribunemail.com
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Song of tradition
It's that time of the year when winter winds are picking up and we are eagerly awaiting the festival season ahead (read Lodhi and Baisakhi). And what better time than this to release an album titled Rut Teohaaran Dee, where Minu Bakshi and Lakhwinder Wadali have given a voice to the rich folk traditions of Punjab.
Says Minu Bakshi, "This album celebrates the culture and tradition of Punjab, which is losing its identity with each passing day. The folk songs have been recorded in a new style, but the sanctity of traditions has been maintained." Minu, who hails from Delhi, is a singer by passion; a professor of Spanish at JNU, New Delhi, and an avid rallyist. She has learnt Urdu and has written a poetry book in the language. And when did she start singing? "I have been singing since childhood and taken training in classical music from Ghulam Hussain Khan Saab and Marghoob Hussain Khan Saab. Professionally, I ventured into releasing albums when I privately recorded four songs for my daughter's wedding seven years ago in collaboration with Paramjit." She adds, "Also, I recorded some more songs for my son's wedding, which when compiled together made the album, Lao Mehndiyan, which was a perfect package for any wedding." We got a release where the name of the singer is mentioned as Param Khurana, while we actually get to meet a well-spoken man named Paramjit Singh. He clears the air, "As an MD for Golden Melodies, I'm Paramjit Singh, but long ago I have sung songs like Eho Kudi Leni Hai and Daddy Paisa Putra Mouj Kar Le — so as a singer I'm Param Khurana," quips Param. He adds, "I have also sung the song Heer for this particular album. Punjabi folk songs are close to everyone's hearts and I want to promote the same through my company." Param feels that it is essential for the present generation to know their customs and traditions. That is the only way to connect with the past. "There are instruments like tumbi, algoza and dadh-sarangi, which can be heard in this album," he says. Three cheers to Punjabi tradition! sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com
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Sunny days
Sunny Leone knows that she has a language problem but still agreed to work in Jism 2, filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt says, adding "she categorically told me that choosing to be a porn star was her personal choice".
"She is well aware that language could act as barrier, but is ready to put in that extra effort. She has agreed to do Jism 2, which will be made under Pooja Bhatt's banner, Fish Eye Network. Now they will work out things with Sunny's agent and work out the nitty-gritties," the 61-year-old told after his brief visit into the Bigg Boss 5 house. Born to a Punjabi family in Ontario, Sunny has appeared in various reality shows in the US, and was named among the world's top 12 porn stars by fashion magazine Maxim in 2010.
— IANS
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Access baggage
Trend talk
Talking colour, blue is a hot colour for the fall/winter accessory collection. Present as a single hue, it was not only found in handbags and shoes but was also seen on straps, trims and edges of accessories. But looking at the biggest trend for the season, we must say it's the return of leather and fur. Seen on the cuff, caps, mufflers and even socks, fur is riding high on the fashion trend. And for leather it's no longer venturing on the biker, masculine look but this season it's about an ultra-feminine look. Says designer Sabah Khan, "Expect to see ultra-short leather jackets, leather leggings and of course long skirts coming into play during Fall/Winter 2011/2012. Though leather is a great material for grey months; luxurious and stylish too, but it does not suit everyone. So, one has to wear it with great poise! Other than that, gloves are going to be a hot trend this winter." Hand full
Handbags are one practical accessory for all the months and considering winter and layering, it does not mean they need no attention. In Fall/Winter 2011/2012, watch out for a mix of leather and lace. Swati Mehrotra, footwear designer, says, "For the winter, the handbag style of choice will be the envelope clutch (remember the festive season is close). It is great for parties and big enough to carry everything you want. Another choice is the satchel, which will be making a comeback for the winter months as well. This trend is a good investment as you can use this piece through several seasons." "Sling bags are going to be one big hit this season, so slide along a smart leather bag for that trendy look," says Sabah. Belt up
Accessories like belts are a must in the wardrobe. This winter is all about added accessories and belts top the list. "We have belts as an added accessory in sweaters, coats and even jackets. However, they are not the plain belts. Mixed with lace, sequins and even ropes, belts are there to jazz up the entire outfit," says an employee of Just Casuals. Foot note
When talking about accessories, socks are an important garment for the winter. Leave behind the regular cotton; woollen socks and visit the market for crochet-knit, multi-coloured socks. These are available in
varied prints and designs.
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Anushka unplugged
Anushka Sharma tells it like it is. She is funny, lively, and spontaneous. And boy, does she look smashing! The gifted actress talks about her co-stars, link-ups, body image, and more.
Body image
People call me anorexic and I want to ask them if they know what they are talking about! Anorexia is a serious mental illness where you make yourself puke what you have eaten. You have emotional issues with food. I am very comfortable in my skin. I believe I have a good figure, I have great skin, nice hair, and I love myself. Outsmarting Ricky Bahl
I play Ishika Desai. She is a Gujarati girl staying alone in Mumbai and she has her own defense mechanism. She is very independent, smart, intelligent, and pretty. She can con people in the sense that she convinces people to buy things they do not need. So the other three girls in the movie get in touch with her to con Ricky Bahl. She is the conflict in the film and provides all the mystery and confusion. She is a match for Ricky Bahl's cleverness. Multiple choice
I know that all my previous films have been solo-heroine films and this film has three other heroines. I believe the casting in this film is perfect as the Parineeti, Aditi, and Dipannita are cast according to what they are in real life. I always look at my role and the way it lends or contributes to the movie. I know I have a great role. I have no insecurities. In fact, I am working with Katrina Kaif and SRK in Yash Chopra's movie. She is one of the biggest stars in the country and so beautiful. I have no insecurities about working with her. Spontaneity works
I can only work with people I respect. I respect Yash Raj Films and Aditya Chopra. Adi knows who will be perfect in which film. There is no obligation on anyone to do a particular film as everything is done according to the script. You always get a bound script here. I am not a trained actor and I act spontaneously, on my instincts! I don't even prepare for interviews. I just say what comes to my mind when questions are shot at me. Gossip hurts
All the stories I read about myself, linking me to my co-stars hurt me a lot. It affects me! Of course, I have learnt to make it affect me a little less. Nobody would like to be scrutinised all the time for their appearance, clothes, or life. These stories make me out to be a frivolous girl. I don't know where they come from. In fact, journalists have called me and apologised to me for what they have written. I am quite conservative. These stories are baseless. In starry company
Akshay Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan are pretty senior so everybody (cast and crew members) respect them and they know everything about them. They both are very easy going yet disciplined. Believe it or not, Akshay is hilarious and makes everyone laugh and he plays pranks. SRK told me that I was such a good actress that he only had to react to me. I was so happy to hear that. Shahid and Ranveer are much disciplined too because they are young and they want to prove themselves. There is a certain comfort level with them. We are all the same age group so we hang out together by going for movies and dinners. Fashion funda
I believe clothes and styling play a very important role in shaping the character you are playing and helps you become the character. Aki Narula did the styling for Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi too, so we joke that Taaniji has come such a long way and become so cool. We bought a lot of clothes from Goan flea markets for this movie. There is a lot of mix and match. Kurtas have been torn to make them short and worn over jeans and shorts. The fashion is real yet different and of course, wearable.
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Ranbir rocks
Rockstar has got mixed reactions from audiences and critics but Ranbir Kapoor's performance has been praised unanimously. So the born star-actor talks about the film and life post it. Ranbir vs Rockstar
(Smiles) The film gave me the platform to perform, so one has to like the film and then my performance. But I am really happy the way my fans loved the film. Everyone understood the character and the pain and emotions Janardhan faced. Fantastic feedback
I was thrilled to get feedback from people whom I have grown up looking up to. Amitabh Bachchan sent me a very sweet handwritten letter about my work and how much he loved the film. Most emotional and touchy moment was when grand uncle Shashi Kapoor asked who is this boy, he's very good. These days he forgets people so he didn't recognise me and after 15 years he went to watch the film. And one of the best comments came from dad who said grandfather Raj Kapoor would have been very proud of me if he would have seen Rockstar. These are the comments which I loved because these are the people who have made their own mark in the industry. Singers' criticism
It was their way of looking at the film. But the film was not about a rocking Rockstar, it was a film about a guy who loves music and then falls in love with a woman. It was the journey about the guy who is a Rockstar. The film was different but yet very romantic. It was the idea of Imtiaz; he has a different way of looking at romance. And I didn't take any reference from any musician it was the character and Imtiaz's vision which I followed. Next project
I was working for Rockstar and then I went numb as I was still living the character. Even after the film's release you know I was just lying on my bed doing nothing. And in between I shot for Barfee but now I am totally free and I am going to sit and decide on my next projects. I haven't signed Kishore Kumar's biopic yet. So, currently I will shoot for Barfee and Ayan's next Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. Take on Barfee
It's a fun film set in 1970s. It's about abnormal people who want to make their relationship work. On the other hand, I have a fun-loving film which is Ayan's film. Bagging Two States
Aah, I was offered Two States but Imtiaz didn't even know about it. Just because we worked together in Rockstar someone put the story together to make it interesting. But as I said I was busy with Rockstar now I will sit and decide which project to take up. Favourite films
Shree 420, or Life Is Beautiful, I love films that are fantasy, based on life, and with beautiful messages.
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Deepika talks fashion
Deepika Padukone is known for her elegant looks and fashion statements. She looks good in whatever she wears and till now we have hardly seen her going wrong with her fashion statement. Well, she is blessed with a perfect face and figure. Fashionably correct
Thank you for saying that but I think I wear what I am comfortable with and yes you can say I am blessed with a perfect figure so I can carry any dress. I always dress up according to the occasion. I am most comfortable in my favourite denims and tees. But I like wearing dresses so you will see me in short dresses in most events. I pick them up whenever I can. All-time favourite
Shorts and tees. If you have a fashion sense you can wear them for a party, evening function or to a badminton court. They are the most comfortable outfit for me. On a holiday I wear shorts, tie a pony tail and my glares will be on and you can find me chilling out. It is the best outfit for me. Fashion statement
I don't follow trends, I would rather make my own style statement. I suggest to my fans not to follow anyone randomly just because you like them. Your body type may be different, so wear what suits you and which you are comfortable with. Also, keep the venue in mind. You should not wear shorts for a traditional event. Weak point
My weak point is shoes. I have a fetish for shoes. Wherever I go I pick more than three pairs of shoes. I have a huge collection. In my new home I have made a separate wardrobe for shoes. Watch out
I have a great collection of watches and I own some 35 of them — some are perfect for a formal evening, while some are casual enough to be worn on badminton courts too. I got my first watch four years ago. It's athletic and at the same time, very uncommon. And there was a time when gold plated watch was very famous and my mom bought one for me which I still have. Fashionable stars
I think Kangana Ranaut is one actress who always comes up with different style statements and she carries them well. And then Sonam Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and so many others. I think these days every actress has a great fashion sense. I think Amitabh Bachchan is fit and perfect. He wears what suits him and he looks handsome and Akshay carries himself really well. No matter what he wears he looks handsome.
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Advantage Mallika
Biker chick Anushka!
Anushka Sharma was a pro scooter rider (she has previously also driven a scooter with aplomb in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi) during an important scene, she drove with the DOP (who was holding an extremely heavy camera) sitting behind her. Her astute driving sense, allowed him to shoot a rear view mirror from the bike quickly and efficiently.
Rave reviews
Screenings have been held for The Dirty Picture and everyone is raving about it. Vidya as Silk is the talk of the town. We are curious!
Launch pad
The first look of Ek Main Aur Ekk Tuu has been launched at a suburban hotel. The trailer will be on air along with The Dirty Picture
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While shooting in Lucknow, the entire Imambara area had to be cordoned off. Massive crowds appeared to watch Ranveer Singh shoot and kept calling
Bitoo!
Bitoo aa gayaa! Rambo was a clear favourite and worked the crowd very well by obliging fans with waves, hugs and pictures!
After pack up, the entire cast feasted at
Lucknow's famous Tunda Kababi.
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Cruising around
Tom Cruise is going to Delhi and from there he will take a chartered flight to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal. He will be accompanied by his cast members but Suri and wife Katie aren't coming. He will fly to Mumbai from Delhi on Friday afternoon.
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Chatter box
I have learnt to focus more on work than friendships. Be positive and think about yourself first. Especially, during the tough times. I am here to do work and be in the industry for good. Work is more important to me. I have felt that in tough times no one really stands yp for you. Maintaining relationships are secondary. Also, it’s better that you don’t speak—just let your work speak for you. Business minus pleasure: I have learnt that never mix your personal life with your professional. Keep your work a priority. Also, when you are on the sets, you co-stars aren’t your friends, they are colleagues. You can be as good friend off the sets. But on the sets, you should keep it professional. Personally, I’ve learnt that no matter how busy you are, you got to make time for your family and loved ones. Last but most importantly, I’ve learnt more than a good actor, you need to be a good human being if you want to continue working for a long time in the industry as it’s a small world. Not every good actor is a good human being. Action & reaction: One lesson that I have learnt is you should let the stuntman do certain scenes. Because I was careless in the past, I’ve been having backache. In Agle Janam, I did the stunts and action sequences all by myself. But I guess I should have taken rest and let the professionals do it. Personally, I have learnt how to compromise on my sleep. The industry has also made me become very responsible. Professionally, I’ve learnt to be more patient. Personally, I’ve become more professional. (Laughs) You know, in the industry the competition is tough. You can’t speak your heart out or share secrets. I don’t have any close friends from the industry. All my close friends aren’t part of the industry. So it’s very difficult. Professionally, you have to be patient as an actor. You never know how long you may have to wait on the sets. Sometimes, you have to wait for 5 hours or sometimes 6. I can’t sit idle. So that way I have become more patient. Professionally, I have learnt how to have patience and be punctual. I used to be impatient. Now, I have become
very patient and that you should always be on time. Never make your crew members wait. Personally, I feel that I’ve learnt that one shouldn’t get attached to people emotionally. In this industry, they keep coming and going. And you have
to move on. |
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The year ahead
If your birthday is December 2...
A gentle and helpful co-worker will help you get out of a difficult and compromising situation around March. You will be the centre of your beloved’s attention and this will strengthen your feelings towards him or her before the dawn of New Year. You’re feeling anxious about trying something new. In March, you may find that there are bills to pay, papers to process and appointments to make. Postponing these jobs will only compound headaches later. You may be tempted to file a lawsuit against someone who cheated you. Unfortunately, the stars aren’t beaming much support for such a venture. It’s better to cut your losses and walk away, even if you were the wronged party. Life is too short to deal with this kind of aggravation. You are just a bit out of step with your colleagues early in 2012.You’ll try to find an alternative solution to a sudden necessity and will ask a trustworthy co-worker for help. He or she will concede. Try not to be touchy or over-sensitive if this is your first job. If you refuse to curb your ego, others will do it for you. You must keep your anger in check. False promises might blind you to real possibilities. You need to be self-reliant at work instead of depending on those who seem to have been making false promises to get a favour or financial assistance. Mood: Excited often, especially in personal or love life issues. Compatible signs: Virgo, Sagittarius, Gemini. Lucky colours: Violet, Salmon. Lucky days: Thursday. Lucky numbers: 2, 7, 19, 20, 80. Lucky gem: South sea pearl. Lucky flower: Motiya
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Astro turf
ARIES: Check newspaper and Internet guides for what is going on in your area. You win over one enemy or adversary.Financially, the first half of the day is rather expensive. Writers will find their work in print. TAURUS: Love life is passing through a rough phase. Those married will buy a piece of jewellery for their spouse. Cosmic wisdom will weave into your affairs. Kindness is spreading around you. GEMINI: Be wary of a situation where it would be easy to make a mistake in haste. You will repent later. Distant affairs will become more favourable as the day progresses. Students: Light reading will keep you busy. CANCER: If you have a lover, this is the day to treat them to a generous gift. Fortune can smile on you from the least expected quarters. Money will be very important today. Health problem can be satisfactorily treated. LEO: An unexpected bonus could appear in your pay cheque as a raise is in the offing. Buy the right outfit for your sports programme. Dress for success and make a great impression . Enjoy being acknowledged. VIRGO: Household tasks can be done in record time. Speculation would be most unwise. Models: Admirers will stick to you like bees; but be careful. You will feel great with your renewed energy. LIBRA: Boring routine jobs can be made more bearable. A level of stress may be building, especially if you face unpaid bills or financial issues are weighing on your mind. You may be feeling vulnerable to the criticism of neighbours or friends. SCORPIO: Make extra efforts to conclude pending projects. Secrecy of plans will help you at place of work. Property deals are
favourable till 2.00 p.m. Do not aim for spectacular results. Be patient and watch the results. SAGITTARIUS: Caring conversations talks flow easily. Health problem can be successfully handled. This is a good day for both buying and selling property. Be wary of over-confidence, which could lead to recklessness. CAPRICORN: A burst of domestic enthusiasm can sweep into cleaning and decorating your home. Senior bureaucrats should focus on secret files . Feeling fit and healthy can only add to your confidence. AQUARIUS: Differences of opinion within the family could reach a boiling point. A stubborn response won’t help. Do not compromise on financial issues. A bright day for intellectuals. PISCES: If you are not okay about a relationship, take positive action rather than crying over them. The employed will have to work overtime. An important meeting or travel may have to be shelved. |
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After several months of neutral and nude tones, it seems the time has come to shift towards colour and accessory. Although the catwalks have already seen plenty of show from designers showcasing their latest wares, not for the Autumn/Winter collections, but they have already moved on to Fall/Winter 2011/2012 and clearly determined the fashion trends for this season. 
Mallika Sherawat will star opposite Vivek Oberoi in Gyarah Challis Ki Last Metro. Though Bipasha Basu was being considered, the makers felt Haryanvi Mallika would suit the character of a Punjabi bombshell better.
Let work speak:
Professional byte:
Move on:
Michaël Youn (December 2, 1973, Suresnes, France) is a French actor, singer, comedian, TV and radio personality. In 2010, he directed his first movie Fatal in which he also stars. In 2006, he had the
main role in the comedy film Incontrôlable.