Dress up… the season of elegance and extravagant style is here. Though the little black dress is an obvious choice for a Christmas party, the glamorous, flowing dress or cocktail gowns are also popular. Considering that it’s the season of parties, we get for you the best that is available.

"Cocktail dresses or gowns come in an array of shapes, striking fabrics, with silk, satin and metallic sheen; layered or simply chiffon or georgette being the popular choice," says Rajneesh Jain from Meena Bazaar. He adds, "Every season brings a lot of surprises and this season though the ‘little black dress’ hasn’t lost its charm, colourful cocktail dresses in rich fabrics like velvet, crepe, brocade or silk or stretch satin or even rich tapestries translate well for formal or informal events." While it’s the knee-length dresses that are a trend here, Rajneesh says, "The trend of ankle length gowns has to still catch up in the city; here people still prefer knee-length to overtly long gowns."

"This season the focus is more on cuts, but the gown and dresses that people prefer are more westernised than Indian," says Divya Kapoor from Samsaara.

While it’s less of embellishments that is in this season, not too many colours are in vogue. "It’s one plain colour that people like these days," says Divya. She adds, "More emphasis is on cocktail dresses and brides too like to wear them. It’s the electric blue, green, golden, purple and pearly hues that people prefer."

We thought gowns and cascading long dresses were for ladies, but even young girls prefer them. "Young girls prefer gowns and dresses these days," says Divya. Why not, everyone wants to stand out in the crowd! But are these dresses fit for only the fit ones? "People who don’t have a fit body can also pick up these dresses, as now women are more comfortable in their skin and don’t mind wearing what they like. And if necessary, they can use a stole to hide the flab," smiles designer Rashmi Bindra.

Talking of trends, she says, "This season is all about dresses and the preferred colours are black and burgundy. And it’s simple and elegant styles that are in rather than the flashy ones." Adds Rajneesh, "It’s going to be black, grey, royal blue, golden and purple this season."

Finally, after a lot of debate on global warming…after dealing with Nostradamus’ prediction of the world coming to an end…winter in finally here. The mufflers, tweed jackets and long boots are a validation of this. And with this snug feeling comes in the reminder of Christmas, Rudolph, red nose reindeer, the old, cuddly ever-smiling Santa Claus.

As you wait for Santa to cruise his way through the snow and reach your place, here is something you can do other than shopping for cocktail dresses, cakes and puddings — pull out the best Christmas DVDs and enjoy the different moments of this festival, captured in timeless classics.

Jingle all the way

Well, our macho Arnie pulls up a great funny act here. Not to forget the pun intended on the commercialisation of Christmas products. This comedy film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sindbad, Phil Hartman and Rita Wilson depicts a hilarious fight for a toy Turbo Man. I would want my father to do something like this for me. Besides my favourite actor Arnold, the movie has a lot of Christmas feeling.

Charit Tripathi, student, chemical engineering.

Christmas Carol

What is Christmas without a song? Christmas Carol is an all-time favourite movie that highlights the spirit of the season. The very Jim Carrey in his multitude roles, the movie is an adaptation of the Charles Dicken’s story with the same name. The movie stars Jim Carrey and Ebenezer Scrooge. It should be great watching this movie, as it comes in a 3D format.

"I have been watching Christmas Carol every year for the last three years. It just makes me get into the whole wintery feeling; the talk of demons and good spirit."

Sneha Chowdhary, model and singer from Mohali.

Home Alone

It is going to be terribly difficult to find one person who hasn’t seen Macaulay Culkin, the star kid who was up to insane ‘home saving’ tricks. Home Alone remains the best Christmas movie and invariably makes it to the top ten list; so all you kids know what to do when the house is to yourself. And for the folks, be assured the kid will make sure the house is safe and sound!

"This is my all-time favourite. Even today at 35 years, I still feel like a child and enjoy the funny action."

Mahinder Narang, a banker

Miracle on 34th Street

A perennial Chritsmas favourite, Miracle on 34th Street is a story of what takes place in New York City with people wondering whether the Santa at the departmental store is real or not. The movie stars Maureen O Hara, John Payne, Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn. It has action, comedy and a lot of typical family drama. And of course a Christmas theme, which makes it a must-watch for the season.

Charul Lyall, student B Pharmacy

The Nightmare Before Christmas

You wouldn’t want anything to go wrong on Christmas, and even the night before! A musical fantasy, it is one among the best animated movies with amazing visuals. The movie tells the story of Jack Skellington, a being from Halloween Town who opens a portal to Christmas Town.

"This is best musical Christmas movie and I love singing along every time I see it."

Harpreet Bajwa, freelance photographer

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Christmas is round the corner and in addition to the plum as well as rum cakes, decorations, candles and hollies, there is one more thing without which the Christmas is incomplete —the carols.

Who hasn’t sung or heard Jingle Bells in their childhood and imagined the Santa Claus getting goodies on his sleigh? And we as kids have always made a deal with our parents to behave nicely after hearing the carol, You Better Be Good, You Better Not Cry just because Santa would not turn up if we don’t obey the terms.

Says Jasraj Bhatti, the short animation filmmaker from Chandigarh, "As I was a student of St. Johns High School, which is a Christian school, we have grown up with Christmas carols. My favourite is Jingle Bells and I cherish it till now. As a child, I used to be quite excited to decorate the Christmas tree and receive gifts."

As for the young MTV VJ, Rhea Chakraborty, "I like a lot of Christmas carols because I studied in convent schools around India. My favourite one is Joy To The World and also All I Want From Santa Is My Front Two Teeth." She adds, "Christmas means a lot to me and it is the best part of the year as well. I believe in Santa and love the good food, Christmas tree and lovely lights in this season."

Some have been closely connected to the carols since their childhood days. Says Sargun Mehta, who plays the lead of Colors’ television serial Phulwa and belongs to Chandigarh, "As I have studied in Sacred Heart as well as Carmel Convent School, I have literally grown up celebrating Christmas. My favourite carol is Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer as it is the merriest one."

She adds, "As my dad’s birthday falls on Christmas he is my Santa, so a mutual exchange of gifts takes place. This doubles the fun of the occasion."

Then there are some who enjoy activities such as putting up the Christmas tree and exchange of gifts.

Says Anusha Dandekar VJ-actor-singer, "I love singing Jingle Bells and Silent Night as they celebrate the Christmas spirit. I love giving gifts and receiving them from Santa Claus."

She adds, "Back in Sydney, I used to celebrate Christmas every year at my best friend’s place and it was simply fun."

Are there some carols lined up on radio. We check out with RJ Manav from 94.3 BIG FM. "I like the Joy To The World and Silent Night. We will be playing a lot of carols for our listeners on Christmas."

What’s your pick for this Christmas?

Christmas fun n Jingle Bells n Jingle Bell Rock n Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer n Silent Night Holy Night n Santa Claus Is Coming To Town n Hark The Herald Angels Sing n We Wish You A Merry Christmas n Come All Ye Faithful n Joy To The World n Drummer Boy

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

A group of students from St. Johns High School eagerly show you the photographs - part of the exhibition that they have put at the Government Museum and Art Gallery, Sector 10, Chandigarh - that they have clicked at the after-school photography workshop, held each Friday under the guidance of their art teacher Michaelangelo Francis.

The showcase starts with pictures by the youngest member of the group - Ranbir Singh from class VI. He has clicked nature in its various hues - the beauty of creatures and flowers. As we move along, the pictures by Shabad (class VII) impress us. Says Shabad, "I have clicked most of these pictures during a family vacation to Manali. I've taken one of them in just eight seconds."

Manan Takkar, a class VIII student, explains how he tried to give various effects while capturing the exquisiteness around Switzerland and in the fields of his school. Says Manan, "A family trip to Switzerland inspired me to capture a lot of places. I had nothing particular in mind and clicked whatever I liked."

The exhibition underlines the fact that age has nothing to do with your creative talent and one must learn how to hone it. Says Gersehaj Singh, "We have to stay calm to capture whatever is going on around us, especially shots of nature."

Shivendra Pal, another youngster, suggests that one should carry a camera everywhere. Jassimar Singh feels one needs to zoom in properly for clear pictures.

Bright colours of nature, wonderful landscapes, portraits and some random clicks enliven the photographs.

(On till December 22)

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

I was seven and I remember when I got back home from school, the house was decorated with balloons and flowers. In one corner there were lots of gifts. I loved it all! I was the birthday girl. But the little me looked around for that one face which meant the world to me. My ma! My world was complete in her secure arms, always.

I lost my father when I was eight. The loss was irreparable but ma played the roles of both and never once showed her loneliness. She was too busy with her two kids. I call her my iron lady! Fighting out tough situations at work or at home, taking charge of everything and I knew once it's in her hands, it is going to be fine.

Cooking together, doing masti, studying together, going for outing, woh chhat pe jaa kar dance karna, we've done it all!

All my bad dreams would leave me only when I hugged her tight!

Today I recall all this because she's the birthday girl. Retired but the spunk unmatchable! I've taken chutti today to decorate the house with balloons. Well, the role reversal. But isn't that life? Bonds become stronger, the ways keep changing?

My friends fondly call her Nallini as she's their best friend but I call her Parimaa! The sweetest angel who was sent by god to give me all the love! To lend me an ear, to give me advice, to be my everything! Well, am I not lucky! Bada pyaara safar raha ye, holding each other's hands through trials and tribulations and happiness! Life has been beautiful because of you. Happy birthday, ma!

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

'Fresh' and 'simple' are two words that make Italian food healthy and popular the world over. And JW Marriott aims at bringing the authenticity of Italian food to Chandigarh. On Monday, Marriott formally launched Oregano, a fine dining Italian restaurant.

The chef manning Oregano is Antonello Cancedda, an Italian with 20 plus years of experience that spans across Europe, Canada, Asia and United States. Two-weeks-old in India, Antonello along with Marriott staff has prepared an extensive menu keeping in mind the availability of fresh ingredients here.

"Italian food clicks with people for it's very simple. Preparation time is less and the procedure simple," says Chef Antonello. "There are not too many ingredients in our recipes or complicated cooking procedures, which make our meals easy to digest," says the chef.

Antonello is not only happy with the challenge to set up a little Italy here, but also by being in India. A yoga and meditation practitioner for last 25 years, Antonello has always felt that India connection. Back to Italian cuisine - Antonello, a native of Sardinia, Italy, wants to introduce some of his region's specialties as well.

At Oregano, al dente pastas, wood-fired pizzas, risottos and lasagnas are not only sumptuous but are light on the stomach as well.

(A two-course meal for two starts from Rs 1,200 onwards).

Dare devil: Sonam Kapoor

In a class of his own

Mekaal Hasan

He is a musician with a soul —his pulse firm on the traditional classical sangeet from the subcontinent and Sufi music that he blends with jazz and rock to carry forward the world music and sounds-of-the-soil tradition. Meet Mekaal Hasan, the young Pakistani contemporary fusion jazz musician, who is on an eight-city tour of India with his band.

The Mekaal Hasan Band performed in the capital and NCR last week. The band was formed in 2001 in Lahore when Hasan returned from the US after a three-year collaboration with drummer Billy Cobham and subsequently with percussionist Pete Lockett. Once back in Lahore, he decided to use the experience he gathered in the company of Lockett - a multi-discipline percussionist with knowledge of Carnatic rhythm—to put together his band. “You can call my music Hindustani classical with rock and jazz influence. My band comprises musicians from the filmi-folk background and builds music around the traditional aspects of eastern classical music with a western jazz-rock approach,” Hasan said. Hasan, who began to work in Lahore, was dabbling in production work—mostly recording music — when he ran into his flautist Mohammed Hasan Papu. “He was one of the sessions guy in Lahore who played for Adnan Sami and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab before him,” Hasan said. In the same way, he met his vocalist, percussionist and mandolin player, who doubles up as a guitarist. The musician relies on his band members to “fine-tune his traditional arrangements and lyrics”. Hasan said his decision to merge “eastern music with western jazz was more of a social enterprise”. Hasan is working on his new and third album Andolan. — IANS

May the best man win!

Race on: Shahid Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor

Ranbir Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor are both vying for the lead role in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s next film titled Chithiyaan.

A source says, ‘Sharman Joshi impressed VVC with his work in Ferrari Ki Sawari and is playing the second lead in this love triangle. The hunt for the lead actor is still on. The heroine also needs to be cast. So now the choice for the hero has come down to Ranbir Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor.’

He adds, ‘VVC had narrated the story to Ranbir a few months ago in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Shahid Kapoor has also met with the producer-director at his office in Mumbai for the same movie. So now VVC has to decide which actor he wants to cast in the film. Shahid is very keen on doing this movie because he wants to work with the acclaimed filmmaker. Chopra, on the other hand, is keener on working with Ranbir than Shahid.’

In any case, Ranbir and Shahid are doing a two-hero film together directed by Siddharth Anand. They have hung out together on a few occasions and have a common group. The word on the casting of this film will be out soon and the dates of the chosen actor will also need to be worked out. Filming will only begin in 2012 as the heroine also needs to be cast.

The right example

Former Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole is throwing an alcohol free pre-Christmas party for her band mates Nicola Roberts, Kimberley Walsh and Sarah Harding. The 28-year-old Fight for This Love singer will take charge of cooking but has taken booze off the menu because of Harding’s recent stint in rehab, where she received treatment for alcoholism and depression, reported a publication online. “Cheryl is going all out. She has already ordered all the food and is determined to cook everything herself. She’s doing the full works, turkey with all the trimmings, and the lunch table will be laid with crackers and other traditional Christmas decorations,” a source said. “But with Sarah having just left rehab, Cheryl doesn’t want to turn it into a drunken dinner so isn’t planning on having any wine involved. It’s just a chance for the girls to catch up with each other before Christmas,” the source added. It is unclear if the fifth member Nadine Coyle will be back in London from Los Angeles, where she is now based, in time for Cole’s festive fun. — PTI

Son shine

weighty issue: Tiger Shroff

Tiger's real name is Jai and he is the son of Jackie and Ayesha Shroff. His sister's name is Krishna. Tiger was recently in the news because he has lost a lot of weight and toned up to make his Bollywood debut. He now has six-pack abs.

Aamir Khan has a project in mind for him and Sajid Nadiadwala has taken it upon himself to launch him. He is looking for a heroine to cast opposite him. Tiger always wanted to become an actor and he has not thought of anything else. He has also trained in dancing, action sequences, and riding.

Blockbuster!

Mission:Impossible-Ghost Protocol is have a rocking time at the Indian box office. The Hindi releases have tanked. The release of Don 2 will not affect M:I-GP because the number of shows for the movie will remain the same. Three cheers for TC, Brad Bird, and Anil Kapoor!

On the cards?

Rumours abound that John Abraham will get engaged to his girlfriend Priya mid-next year and get married at the end of 2012. He wants to rest the rumours that call him a player.

Getting hitched: John Abraham

Birthday boys

There are quite a few birthdays in Bollywood this week. Anil Kapoor turns a year older on December 24, Salman on December 27, and Govinda on December 21.

Adventures galore

Prachi Desai went scuba diving in Maldives for her new film with John Abraham. She wasn’t keen on it but her unit and John encouraged her and she did it. She isn’t a swimmer.

Water baby: Prachi Desai

Out of the league

Punit Malhotra, directer of I Hate Luv Storys, wanted to make another film with Imran Khan. However, the latter has opted out of the film due to date issues.

Date issues: Punit Malhotra

Hot-shot

Ali Zafar has taken off his shirt in London, Paris, New York. He has a lean, mean look in the movie. He worked out but didn’t focus on six or eight-pack abs!

Lean look: Ali Zafar

Art of moving on

Bipasha Basu also seems to have moved on from John to special friend Rana Daggubatti. They both take time out to be together and are also attending Sunburn.

Bipasha Basu is in Goa shooting for a film. She loves Goan seafood. So she eats her heart out and then works out on the beach and goes swimming. How great is that!


Time out: Bipasha Basu

On cloud nine: Shama Sikander

Veena resurfaces

While the whole world was wondering where Veena Malik had disappeared , she was blissfully asleep in a hotel room. Apparently post shooting in a bathtub for 18 hours, she was bone tired and checked into a hotel, called a doctor, took some pills and slept for 30 hours straight. While everyone is relieved to find her hale and hearty, there are many who are calling this yet another publicity stunt.
Lost & found: Veena Malik

Aman turns a devil

Talented actor Aman Verma will now be seen in the role of a devil in Zee TV’s Chhoti Bahu. He was last seen as villain Bhanupratap in Colors’ Na Aana Is Des Laado. In Chhoti Bahu, Aman will play the role of a demon called Vishwanath brought into the Purohit house by Barkha.


bad man: Aman Verma

Deepika’s launch pad

Right focus: Deepika Singh

Star Plus’ Diya Aur Bati Hum maybe Deepika Singh’s first show but her character Sandhya has become a household name within months of the launch. The actress is glad that her show is a hit but claims she’s still learning and cherishing each moment. We talk to her about the show, her success and more…

The show has become a success in a short span. How do you feel? Who do you credit the success to?

Obviously, I feel great. The credit definitely doesn’t come to me. There are so many people who have put so much effort and hard-work for the show. It’s the team effort. Also, it increases pressure. If the show is doing well, people expect you to do even better.

How did you bag Diya Aur Baati?

I did some commercials and was part of some stage plays. I knew about the show, so I went to try my luck and gave an audition. When I got a call that I was selected, I couldn’t believe it. I always wanted to be a star.

This is your first show. How has been the experience with your co-stars?

The first few episodes were difficult for me. I was a little conscious and felt nervous. I had no clue about how things worked. But everybody on the sets supported and encouraged me. Today I am quite comfortable.

What do you think of your co stars Anas Rashid and of Neeluji who plays your mother-in-law?

Anas and I share a very professional relationship. Other than work related stuff, we don’t talk that much. But Neeluji is my best friend on the sets. She’s like a mother-figure for me on the sets. She’s a brilliant actress and a human being.

What do you like and dislike most about your character?

There isn’t anything that I dislike about the character. I like that she’s bold and patriotic. She’s so innocent and noble that she will do anything to help others. She even crosses her line to fight for what he believes in.

What do you think of putting duty ahead of ambition, desires? Does it work?

Ambitions and responsibilities are two different things. You can never really be sincere about your ambitions if you run away from responsibilities and duties. Rest is destiny. If you help others and are responsible, people will realise it one day. And that day, they will come and help you.

How is Deepika different from Sandhya?

There’s similarity between us. She loves studies and I love studies too.

ARIES: Make an early start today. Not only will you impress the boss but you will feel an immediate sense of achievement. Cash may not flow easily. Make every effort to further your ambitions. Tarot message: A positive and caring attitude heals old wounds. Lucky colour: Citric blue. Magic number: 33

TAURUS: You can find it too easy to get bogged down in the daily grind and caught up in your natural ambition to get ahead. This will be a difficult day for dealing with business partners. Tarot message: Remember “Penny saved is penny earned”. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 62

GEMINI: A day of heavy spending. An interesting day for mixing with people from overseas. Little extra care with the desk work is essential, but it is important to relax however busy you think you are. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays. Lucky color: Pale yellow. Magic number: 59

CANCER: Excitement and happiness are on the cards. Socialising and attending gala events can be costly. You will have much more energy. You need a breath of fresh air and time out. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Blood red. Magic number: 63

LEO: Someone you meet today may give you a useful business tip. Best to stay at home during leisure time. A caring heart may be needed to resolve any family tension. Tarot message: Be sure to involve yourself as much as possible in new project. Lucky colour: Golden yellow. Magic number: 57

VIRGO: You are in for an exciting day. Today should see many of the policies that you have been following bearing fruits. Do not allow friends or family to distract you during study hours. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Cream. Magic number: 50

LIBRA: Finance and income are in the spotlight. Be sure to grasp an opportunity coming your way. Sudden changes in romance are on the cards. Discuss the detail plans with loved ones. Tarot message: Don’t be too certain about obtaining a clearance. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 41

SCORPIO: Make sure you are doing your best. You could be in line for a promotion. Employment affairs are satisfactory. Your interest in overseas affairs is likely to stimulate. Tarot message: Rivalry and competition would push you to do your best. Lucky colour: Beige. Magic number: 52

SAGITTARIUS: Friction in the workplace can slow down production. Words said in the heat of the moment may not be true expressions. Work-wise, slow and steady gets you everywhere. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 25

CAPRICORN: Feeling of love and strong impulses come together. Take it easy today. It would be pointless to attempt to force the pace. Creative people will be blessed with an inspirational breakthrough. Tarot message: Play your cards close to your chest. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 40

AQUARIUS: You are unlikely to get far if trying to put new plans into operation. An illness could mean having to take the day off. Putting energy into your domestic life can give you the lift you need now. Tarot message: Take no chances. Lucky colour: golden. Magic number: 61

PISCES: Sacrifices today can put you in a far better place in future. Bring a breath of fresh air into your life by rearranging your environment. A good period for those who work on a commission basis. Tarot message: You need to be creative. Lucky colour: Chocolate brown. Magic number: 24