A successful script
Jasmine Singh

With more and more shootings of Bollywood movies taking place in Chandigarh, satellite industries like beauty, hospitality and escort services have got a boost…


Akshay Kumar

Manisha Kapoor, homemaker, can recreate that day's happenings like it happened yesterday. "She was extremely pretty, a million dollar smile. Madhuri Dixit was shooting with Sanjay Kapoor in a Sector-5 bungalow for a song sequence and entire Chandigarh had gathered to see the two actors. It was in 1995 and the city had not seen something like this before," she smiles sharing how she managed to go right to the place where Madhuri was sitting. "There was hardly any security around her, only a few cops."

Cut to the present. Today, Chandigarh and nearby areas of Punjab make it to just about every Bollywood movie. City folks are used to shootings in the nearby gardens or Panjab University. Veer Zaara, Ab Tumharey Hawaley Watan Saathiyo, Mausam, London Dreams, East is East, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Joker, Jab We Met, Heroes, Love Aaj Kal…we have some part of Chandigarh appearing in movies!

And with Bollywood zeroing-in on the city, we see satellite industries like beauty, hospitality and escort service getting a real fillip. If one fine morning you bump into Preity Zinta getting her manicure done at Tress Lounge, L'Oreal; another day you can find macho man Salman Khan pumping iron at a local gymnasium! If you are too lucky, you might even share space with Sunny Deol in the lift at Hotel Taj! We put together industries that have gained and doing well due to the shootings taking place in the city.

Here & care

If we are talking Bollywood, how can we miss the beauty industry? Despite the fact that film stars bring their own make-up teams, most of the times, for parties and special shoots, they prefer getting ready at local saloons. Says Munish Bajaj, executive director, Tress Lounge, L'Oreal-8, "Almost every month, we have celebrities approaching us for getting appointments for make-up and haircare sessions. In fact, the crew makes an inquiry beforehand and gets a special slot for the actors, who prefer privacy." Shooting crews, who pitch their tents in the city for long, come calling either early in morning or late in the night. "When Preity Zinta was shooting for Heroes, she would often drop by for haircare session, manicure, pedicure and massage," shares Munish.

Fatim, who is the make-up man for popular Bollywood stars like Akshay Kumar and Arbaaz Khan, is relieved that they don't have to run around the city to look for good saloons. "We zero-in on the good saloons, check up the packages, closeness to the place of stay and then fix an appointment."

On guard

Gone are the days when you could approach actor Dharmendra for an autograph when he was shooting in Pinjore. Actors now do not take a step outside without an entourage of burly bouncers surrounding them. Nearly 4-5 bouncers provide security cover to one celebrity, depending on the status.

Ruby (bouncer) and his men are popular with Bollywood; whether it is giving Sonakshi Sinha a security cover or slipping Ajay Devgn in a car at the airport…they are indeed the best bodyguards. "With so many shootings taking place in Chandigarh and around, we have work throughout the season. I had to add more boys in the team because the demand for bouncers has increased," he shares. Ruby and his boys are paid pretty well. "Besides, we get to be in close company of the stars and sometimes we end up striking a good rapport with them," he laughs.

At your service

Not every star is like Aamir Khan, who insisted on staying inside the IIT, where he was shooting for 3 Idiots! Actors like to be put up in the best hotels, which offer the best of services. Says Saira Dhir, sales manager, Hotel Taj, "Shootings in the city create a buzz and it's always nice to have filmstars over. We have had actors like Rani Mukherjee, Katrina Kaif, Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgn, who have stayed with us for longer periods." And their stay is well taken care of by the staff. "They generally like to meet up with the chef and tell him about their diet preferences. Other than diet, fitness is always on their agenda," she shares.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

New avatar
Sabia Talwar

Karan Veer Singh, owner of Vimanika Comics, says he is proud to have reinvented mythology

There is no age to hold a comic and enter the fantasy world of the story-teller. And to inspire youngsters to read more on mythology, young Mumbai-based entrepreneur Karan Veer Singh, who has always been intrigued by comics, launched the company Vimanika Comics in 2008.

Mythology has various aspects and these comics come with a code that explains most of them. Karan has been a marketing man and started working at the age of sixteen. He has worked with Amway Corporation and is a certified trainer from Franklin Covey.

So how did he think of venturing into the world of comics? "During my school days, I used to draw sketches of my teachers and used to doodle a lot. I was more of a writer and into some serious stuff." He adds, "During childhood, my brother used to narrate mythological stories to me and I grew up in that kind of environment."

Finally, there came a day when he applied his understanding of art and mythological stories to open his own company. What kind of competition does the comics' industry face from animation movies as of now? "Comics are a different market altogether and is a separate segment, but in India comics are still at a nascent stage. Maybe there is lack of exposure, but things will improve in the coming times," says Karan.


STORY TELLER: Karan Veer Singh

Till date, the company has released five comic editions titled Sixth. These narrate the tales of Karan in Mahabharata; Moksha, which is about Hanuman and Parshuram, Dashavatar that showcases the ten avatars of Vishnu; Kalki, which is the tenth avatar of Vishnu, and the most recent on Lord Shiva and his legend.

Vimanika Comics, with its recent release Shiva-The Legends of the Immortal, released in October, have also made a foray into the world of music, as along with the comic there is a free CD that has meditative tracks like Shiva Tandav and Shiva Mantra. So, while reading the comic, one can put on the headphones and know more about the legend of Lord Shiva. Karan says that in addition to a marketing strategy, it also helps the reader connect with the story better.

Dealing with mythological subjects must be difficult! Says Karan, "We have till now never faced opposition, as we have a tie-up with a research company that takes the services of scholars and historians; they conduct a thorough research before anything is published."

And the best part is that these mythological comics come with a modern touch, which builds an immediate connect with the youngsters. Little wonder then, it is already one of the bestsellers on Flipkart. The comics are released in India as well as the US across all book stores.

Says Karan, "I'm totally into my work and feel that promoting mythology boosts my self-esteem as well as confidence; I am proud that I am reinventing something that is losing its identity."

Wonder why the successful comic-maker is looking out to tie-up with production houses!

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Song of faith
Jasmine Singh

Singer Manhar Udhas believes that reality shows provide a good platform to young singers, but they need to constantly work hard…


Spiritual touch: Manhar Udhas. Photo: S Chandan

Rather than fighting it out everyday, sometimes resigning your life to circumstances gives it a direction and a sense of peace. Manhar Udhas, the famous ghazal singer, in Chandigarh as part of the 16th installation ceremony at Shirdi Sai Samaj, is observant, reading every face and smiling through his calmness. We haven't heard him for a while, though we would never have someone sing Har Kisi Ko Nahin Milta (Jaanbaaz) with the same passion as he has!

"I am singing a lot of Gujarati ghazals. I have already released 28 albums and now I will soon be releasing another one titled Abhilaasha," he says keeping the conversation brief and precise. Known as one of the best ghazal singers in the country, Manhar Udhas does share the country's grief in the loss of Jagjit Singh. "With him an era of ghazal singing has ended. Ghazals will still be there, but times have changed and so has the singing. Not much emphasis is laid on the lyrics nowadays," he shares.

Well, it is reality time these days. Fresh crop of wannabe singers coming out of reality shows? "In a way it is good. At least they have a platform to showcase their talent. In my time, I had to give auditions and go from here and there, just to be heard.

"Manhar shows no regret though; he has accepted the times and is pretty much flowing with them. And one force that has led him is his faith in Shirdi Sai Baba. "He is everything; he gave me this chance to serve him and I am doing whatever he wants me to do. I am releasing another album called Baba Key Shirdi Aaney Sey," he smiles, adding that he is in a different world while recording bhajans. "I go into some kind of a trance, which is not easy to put down in words."

Daily riyaaz is still a routine with the singer, who has given us numbers like Loote koi man ka nagar (Abhimaan), Hum tumhe chahte hai aise (Qurbani), Tu mera jaani hai (Hero), Tera naam liya (Ram Lakhan), Gali Gali mein (Tridev) and Hum tere bin kahin nahin (Sadak), to name a few. "I do my riyaaz regularly, but I think young singers these days don't work that hard."

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: You will dazzle everyone if you put yourself in the mainstream today. This is a perfect time to entertain or to let others entertain you. A chance to do things a little differently will lead to many more changes. Tarot message: Don’t forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 56

TAURUS: Be careful to not do anything that might get you into trouble. Going away for the weekend or visiting good friends will be a great way to bring in the new day. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27

GEMINI: You can have all the fun you want, but make sure you have someone you can count on by your side. A chance to hook up with someone interesting will spark an idea for a new project. Tarot message: Work could pose certain minor difficulties but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 30

CANCER: Though “Knight of Swords” gives you a new vision but overindulgence will lead to trouble. Be attentive toward the ones you love, and let bygones be bygones with those who have upset you in the past. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50

LEO: The Princes of Cups infuses a youthful disposition so you will be flirtatious, but be careful not to ignore the one who counts most in your life. Love can take a turn if you aren’t thoughtful, generous and loyal. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 44

VIRGO: You won’t be able to count on anyone, so if you are going to go out, prepare to walk, take a cab or stay home and have friends visit you. Be responsible and you will start the day on the right foot. Tarot message: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 35

LIBRA: It’s time to clear the air and rid yourself of all the burdens you’ve been carrying on your shoulders. Nobody will know how you feel if you don’t tell them. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 46

SCORPIO: Recent professional setbacks can easily be turned into triumph. Don’t yield to temptation; be responsible. You will not get away with wrongful doings, so don’t even try. Abide by the rules. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: You are on a winning streak. Play the odds, but don’t bet what you can’t afford to lose. Having fun is what it’s all about. You are more than ready to make a change. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 39

CAPRICORN: Today your mind should be on money reveals the Magician. Attend any event that will place you with people you find stimulating. A Cancerian surprises you with a generous gift. Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 48 

AQUARIUS: Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty. Do your thing with friends, even if someone wants to ruin your plans. Stay calm and refuse to let anyone get the better of you. Yoga and meditation bring balance. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 63 

PISCES: Nine Cups full of light lotus blossoms and greet you today as loving relationship flower with commitments. The day offers great new possibilities. Follow through, do your best and promote whatever you believe in. Tarot message: Lay emphasis on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Metallic grey. Magic number: 28

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 7...

To win, you must use neither aggression nor arrogance. Indeed, you can obtain great things by being calm. Your apparently weak attitude is your strength and nobody can oppose you. Great success will arrive in March. Nothing will harm you; you’ll manage yourself effectively and will find a solution to all your problems in June.

If you are in a relationship, you’ll get the impression that your partner is trying to hide something from you and you’ll carefully analyse his or her behaviour. Be objective in your approach. If you are single, you’ll get the chance to meet new people around July. Go easy on fattening food and drinks. You’ve always been fond of desserts, so you must find a way to satisfy cravings without going overboard.

You will balance loyalty with independence. In last days of December, don’t rush things and try not to cause stress as you may have to pay the consequences. You’ll be very prudent and wise with your beloved and will try to be more patient than usual. January is a good month for harmony in which peace, concordance and success reign.

If you wish to prosper and be lucky, you will have to maintain this state. Ask help from someone who is capable of stabilising this favourable situation in February. Be cautious in the near future. Utmost caution is needed because mysterious decisive events are about to occur in your life. Rearrange your priorities in March.

You need self-confidence to be successful. Employees will have the chance to show their ability in the workplace, leading to rewards and gratification. Financially a beneficial phase begins in January bringing in its wake huge monetary rewards. Career opportunities will bring harmony at work.

Many important opportunities are in store for you. Some of you’ll get new job offers. Make the most of it. Seven signifies intellect and an introspective mind. As an expression number it suggests the need to think deeply and the desire for seclusion. You may acquire ancestral property or some share of it. Mood: Vulnerable sometimes but otherwise good. Compatible signs: Sagittarius, Gemini, Aries. Lucky colours: Sea shell and tan. Lucky days: Friday. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 12, 45, 60. Lucky gem: Moon stone. Lucky flower: Chameli.

Shekhar Suman (December 7, Patna) started his career with the film Utsav opposite Rekha in 1985. On television, he was featured in the shows Dekh Bhai Dekh, Reporter, Wah janab,’chote babu’ Andaz,Amar Prem ‘aaha’, ‘main’ ‘vilayati babu’ Movers n Shakers, Simply Shekhar and Carry On Shekhar. In 2009, he appeared as a participant on a reality TV series, Raaz Pichhle Janam Ka based on past life regression. He has also appeared as a judge in the reality TV show Lux Perfect Bride.

Chatter box
Andrew Symonds in Bigg Boss 5?

All speculations of Navjot Singh Sidhu and Jonty Rhodes participating in Bigg Boss 5 have turned out to be false as neither cricketer-turned-commentator or South African all-rounder have made it to the Bigg Boss house. But the viewers will no longer be devoid of a cricketer inside the house as the season will see Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds on the show shortly.

Back in comfort zone

Sab TV and is producing a show for which Suresh Menon and Hemant Pandey have been confirmed. And the latest we hear is the Nauheed Cyrusi is all set to make her comeback on television with this show. Nauheed Cyrasi, who was last seen one of the contestants of Khatron Ke Khiladi, will return on small screen with the SAB TV Tele film. She will join hands with actors like Jayesh Bharbhaya (last seen Papad Pol), Chirag Vohra, Jagesh Mukati.

Just friends

Hats Off Productions show Chintu Chinky Aur Ek Badi Si Love Story on Sab TV, the lovey-dovey reel life couple Chintu (Rajesh Kumar) and Chinky (Divyanka Tripathi) have finally tied the knot. The show has a breezy and light-hearted comic plot which aims to tickle TV viewers’ funny bone. Furthermore, Chintu and Chinky is not only a great couple in reel life, but they also bond really well in real life. Well, don’t let your imagination run wild. They are just great friends and they respect each other as professionals.

Hamari saas gets an extension


A still from Hamari Saas Leela

Neela Telefilm’s Hamari Saas Leela has had a tough ride to prove its worth time and again. The channel initially decided to pull the show off air in September and was also shifted to an afternoon slot but bad fortune continues to follow the show. Recently, the channel officially announced that the show will be pulled off air and within five days the shooting will be wrapped up. But the next morning everybody got the message saying that the show has been granted an extension of 15 days and the creative team is working on the end track of the show. The show might see its last light by December end or first week of January.

Comeback trail

Shilpa Anand will be back on television very soon. The actress, who ruled several hearts as Dr Riddhima in the popular show Dill Mill Gayye, has been approached to act in a show. This untitled show will basically have a theme of a villager moving into a city.  She has been approached to play the lead. Here is hoping this will help the TRPs of the show and be a good move for the channel.

Not the saas-bahu type

Television actress Madhura Naik who was last seen as T in Star One’s Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani, believes that she can’t take up or do bahutype roles as she can’t handle the load of heavy sari and won’t suit her image. Madhura has a sexy image in the industry and would rather stick to it. Who does not like a sexy image?

Memories of a birthday boy


A year wiser: Mohit Sehgal

Mohit Sehgal, who is famous for his role as Samrat on Star One’s Miley Jab Hum Tum, celebrated his birthday recently. We caught up with Mohit to speak about the celebration, girlfriend Sanaya Irani, gifts he received and more…

How did you celebrate your birthday?

I celebrated my birthday at home. I had a few close friends over. I cut the cake and we all chilled at my place. It was just a small-get together but we had fun.

Any particular reasons for not throwing a party?

Well, this is the time of the year when most people are unwell. I had fever a few days back. I still have a cold. Also, my friends haven’t been doing too well. So we decided that its better we stay indoors.

Did you and Sanaya do anything special?

On the mid-night of my birthday, we had a small celebration at my house. The next day, we were lazy and feeling tired to step outside. But Sanaya insisted that we must go since it was my birthday and do something. So we out for dinner together.

What did she gift you?

She gifted me an outfit. I wore the same outfit at Kinshuk’s wedding ceremony. She asked me to let her gift me in advance since I was planning to buy one any way.

Who all wished you?

From Facebook to online forums, I had my fans wishing me everywhere. I took time to thank them all. Also, I received gifts from my fans and friends. My family members called and wished me. A close friend called me. But ever since, I moved to Mumbai, I haven’t been celebrating with my friends.

Which has been your most memorable birthday?

There is one birthday that I remember. I once celebrated my birthday in Dehradun. My relatives live there and we had gone during my birthday. It was cold during this time and it was nice feeling with your family in beautiful place. I love Mussoorie.

— HRM

The ‘in’ side
Workout in style
Sukhmani

If you are disciplined and self motivated, then the decision to have a home gym will be one you will be proud of. It gives you the convenience and comfort to work out in the privacy of your home.

Firstly, find the best place to setup a gym. It can be a spare room or the basement.

Make a proper layout before you go shopping for equipment. Don’t cram up the area. Place all the heavy and tall equipment along the wall and keep the centre free for small equipments or for free style exercising.

Make sure the room is well ventilated and has enough natural lighting. Choose a room that has large windows or one that overlooks a patio.

Rubber floorings are ideal for gyms as there is no fear of scratches and is gentle on your joints.

Use bright and energising colours like oranges and yellows. Avoid muted colours as they are known to relax.

Place full length mirrors on one wall. These not only make the room appear bigger but help you keep a track on your moves.

Hang motivational posters or fitness related images on your walls to keep you motivated.

Add an entertainment system like a TV or a music system. Keep sufficient electrical sockets for them.

A gym should never be dull and dingy, therefore install proper lighting. Ceiling lights are best for gyms.

Install a wall clock to time your workouts.

Keep a small fridge to keep all your energy drinks and water to keep you hydrated during your workouts.

Install shelving units to store all your towels, CDs, dumbbells etc. Keep everything organised.

Add 1-2 live plants. They not only look good but also help keep the air clean and fresh.

You may want to add a comfy lounge chair to relax post workout.

By making your workout area more attractive, you will be more likely to actually use it! a (Sukhmani is a Chandigarh-based interior and landscape designer)

It’s rocking
Addictive tune

Aadat Se Majboor is the first song of the album Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl. Benny Dayal lends his magical voice to this song. The lyrics justify the title of the movie, as the song reflects the image of a conman and Ranveer’s performance as a playboy is simply rocking in the video. It’s a perfect number to hit the dance floor. And Ranveer himself has sung the rap portion. The Tempo of this song is equally high and it is already a hit.

Livewire

It is a very lively and energising track; a perfect introduction to Ranveer’s character named Ricky in the movie. Ranveer’s rap is quite prominent and sounds amazing. It is fun to see him dancing.

Srishti Gulati, MBA student, PU

Peppy beats

The song is pleasant and peppy. The lyrics portray the conman image of Ranveer and are so apt for his character. The tempo of the song is such that one wants to dance to its tune.

Apoorv Grewal, B Com student, GGDSD College

Repeat value

The track is entertaining enough to be played over and over again. The song has a romantic and a naughty undertone, which also reveals the theme of the movie. It is quite addictive.

Roshni Ahuja, housewife

Morning buzz

I’m in love with the song and my morning starts with this track. The party mood of the song keeps your spirits high.

Devanshi Singh, BA student, MCM College

(As told to Sabia Talwar)

HEART talk
Career over marriage
Parvesh Rana

I am a 25-year-old girl pursuing fashion designing. I want to start working, but my parents want me to either get married or go in for further studies. They don’t want me to work at all. How should I convince them?

Sonali, Chandigarh

They are giving you a brilliant option of further studies, why don’t you take that up. While you are doing that you will get a chance to intern with leading designers as well. I think you are in a win- win situation with nothing to lose. So, grab this opportunity, it is so much better than getting married.

I am a single mother of 21 year old son. My son now wants to know about his biological father but I don’t want to tell him. Do you think I am doing the wrong think by hiding information?

Kavita, Panchkula

No you are not doing anything wrong. But you should have faith in your son and know that he is doing right too. Talk to your son and discuss apprehensions with him, tell him about your fears and the way you feel about it. I am sure he will understand.

(Rana is a television anchor and Bollywod actor)

Posh's support system
Posh loves her family

Victoria Beckham has revealed that her children inspire her "every day", and that her husband is her "rock". Speaking at the British Fashion Awards, the 37-year-old former Spice Girls member, who has four kids, Brooklyn Romeo Cruz and Harper Seven, said that being a mother gives her the inspiration needed for her work, while the 36-year-old LA Galaxy footballer gives her the support she desires.

"David is my rock. He encourages me and gives me the confidence to do what I do and my kids inspire me every day. And my mum and dad were here, which was fantastic. I love them all so, so much. My family means everything to me," she said.

Posh, who lives with her family in Los Angeles, also revealed that she is "in love" with all her four children and loves being a mother as they bring so much joy to her life.

"Harper is absolutely amazing. But I am in love with all of my children. They are all wonderful," she added. — ANI

Ash's new fan
Hollywood actress Paula wants to work with Aishwarya

Aishwarya Hollywood actress Paula Patton, who would be seen in the Tom Cruise -tarrer upcoming film Mission Impossible-Ghost Protocol, says, she would love to work with Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan.

"I love Aishwarya Rai and would love to work with her. She is really a good-looking woman and a good actress," Paula said. Paula was present at the Imax Wadala Multiplex, along with the film's lead actor Tom Cruise to promote the upcoming film in India. Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor, who plays a role in the film, was also present there.

Paula also praised Anil Kapoor, describing him as a "very good actor". — PTI

Hangover continues


Reunion time: Bradley Cooper

Hollywood star Bradley Cooper has confirmed that the Hangover cast is set to reunite for a third film.

The 36-year-old actor shot to international fame with his role in the 2009 Las Vegas-based comedy opposite Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis and Justin Bartha, and a follow-up, The Hangover Part II, set in Thailand, was released earlier this year.

Cooper has now said that filming on the third installment should begin next September next year and he believes it will be set in California.

"I hope we'll start shooting next September. I know (director) Todd Phillips is working on the script. We stuck to the formula in the second one but the third would need to close the trilogy. I think it'll take place in LA and not adhere to the structure," he said. — PTI

A hero called Lady Gaga

Pop sensation Lady Gaga says she was thrilled to receive the Hero Award in recognition of her work with the LGBT community and called it "better than a Grammy".

The Marry the Night hitmaker was honoured by the Trevor Project — a non-profit company that offers suicide-prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth - at their annual Trevor Live event in Los Angeles.

"This means more to me than any Grammy I could ever win," she said, accepting the prize at the star-studded event at The Hollywood Palladium.

Gaga was presented with her award by the family of Jamey Rodemeyer, the New York teenager and a huge Lady Gaga fan, who killed himself in September after enduring constant bullying over his sexuality. — PTI

Pure and simple

KMG Jewellers, Manimajra organised a general discussion on the hallmarking of jewellery and the measure of pure gold.

Says Rishu Jain, owner of KMG Jewellers, says, “People purchasing jewellery trust the jewellers and not the jewellery. Here is where hallmarking steps in.”

The Government of India has a certification scheme of hallmarking gold jewellery that falls under the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards). There are five stamps which occur on a hallmarked piece—sign of the jeweller, sign of the hallmarking centre, year of the hallmarking, BIS logo and 916 stamp.

The karatmeter was demonstrated on this occasion with placing a gold bangle on the metre and the monitor showing the amount of gold, silver, copper, zinc and cadmium it has along with the karat measure. So the next time you purchase gold, you have a way to know its purity. — Sabia Talwar

Big B's scripting sessions

One can't keep Amitabh Bachchan away from work for long. The megastar, who was taking it easy after wrapping up Kaun Banega Crorepati 5, has decided to get back to work and utilising his free time by reading scripts.

"It's time to pick up that bundle of scripts that lie untouched in front and to read and go through them with a certain consideration. It is time to finalise that one film which shall give me the impetus of a challenge. It is time to move in front with eagerness and will to claim and to study to work and to expect... it is time," Big B posted on his blog Bigb.bigadda.com.

The 69-year-old is right now enjoying the company of his newborn grandchild. — IANS

No wedding please

Kelly Brook's boyfriend Thom Evans has revealed that he is not proposing the actress for marriage any time soon. The former Scottish rugby star said that his mother, Sally, disapproves of the idea.

"My mother says I have still got plenty of time to settle down and has advised me not to get married yet," Evans said.

"The thing is Kelly is six years older than me. I don't mind her being older. It's not a bad idea to have an older woman, because, as my mother says, women live a lot longer than men, so it makes sense.

"So contrary to popular belief, we are not getting engaged or married," he added. — ANI





HOME PAGE | Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Opinions |
| Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi |
| Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail |