As far as designing a garment is concerned, more often than not the product needs to be visualised first, which is pretty much the starting point
Birth of a garment
Manpriya Singh

A piece of garment can be criticised or commented upon within five minutes; the time it takes to complete a runway. How it comes into creation takes light years longer than that. A piece of clothing rests within the minds of a designer till it comes into being. At times, it all begins with the inspiration; at times it all begins from the imagination. Nevertheless, the process pretty much remains the same.

The end product needs to be visualised first; that's pretty much the starting point. After that the designers get down to the technicalities — Anupama Dhull freelance stylist
The end product needs to be visualised first; that's pretty much the starting point. After that the designers get down to the technicalities — Anupama Dhull freelance stylist

The starting point is where we too begin. Says Sabah Khan, Mumbai-based designer behind the label Sabashe, "For any good design there has to be an inspiration first; what you want your collection or clothing line to reflect first. Will it be hippie inspired or any other theme-based?" She adds, "Then you incorporate certain elements in it and ensure it's in sync with current trends and make forecast for the next season."

More often than not it's a reverse process since the final product is what they visualise first. Says Pallavi Jaipur, who recently showcased at Lakme Fashion Week, "Designers always have various things in their minds; for me sketching comes first. There's lots of sketching till the finer elements come to the fore. Later you put the motifs in place; then the styling comes on the paper. How much of fabric needs to be used; where, how much of it needs to be sent for dying etc."

Nothing is cut and dried, neither the process nor the stages. Says Anupama Dhull, freelance stylist with makeover studio Greenroom, "The end product needs to be visualised first; that's pretty much the starting point. After that the designers get down to the technicalities of fabrics, colour and fall of the garment. That's where a lot of discussions are involved with the craftsmen. We ready a rough piece and only then go ahead with the actual garment."

For the laymen, they don't sew it all themselves but most of the designers exert no less level of control over their designs, being intensely involved at every stage. Says Sabah, "After the initial inspiration and research, the design elements come to the fore. There's lots of sketching, which is more of a trial and error thing. After this the actual making of the garment happens. You have your fabric sources in place; then the paper patterns are discussed with tailors and craftsmen. A rough muslin cloth is prepared and from then on the final clothing comes to life."

Most of the A-listers have their clothes handmade or under their direct supervision. Says Riya Trehan, city-based designer, "Any designer's strength lies in the highly skilled craftsmen he or she possesses. They are the one who practically execute a vision."

As one of the most quotable quote goes to iconic Ralph Lauren, "I don't design clothes, I design dreams." Understandably, it's not an easy task. As Anupama says, "A lot of times, a garment doesn't materialise also, since whatever you imagine might not be physically created. But inspiration is important at all times. Inspiration is what distinguishes the best names from the lot. But yes, at all stages it's a lot of hardwork." Ultimately it all reflects in the designs itself!

manpriya@tribunemail.com 

Renowned Punjabi movie director Manmohan Singh talks about his upcoming venture, a light comedy titled Ajj De Ranjhe
On a lighter note 
Ashima Batish

Do we need another confirmation of the fact that the Punjabi film industry has arrived? The movies are faring well on the big screen, producers are minting money, commercial story-lines are being preferred and there is an international awards event for them!

Renowned Punjabi movie director Manmohan Singh adds to the credit list, "Reliance Entertainment is producing my upcoming film Ajj De Ranjhe. For the first time, a major production house from the tinsel town has expressed interest in Punjabi cinema." Film stars Aman Dhaliwal and Gurleen Chopra will be the lead pair while comedian Gurpreet Ghuggi and Kimi Verma will play the second lead. The movie also stars Darshan Aulakh and 
Rana Ranbir.

The film is based on public-police relationship. "Why are we scared of approaching police personnel who are public servants in the first place? The movie aims at their image makeover," says Manmohan, who was in Chandigarh along with the crew to begin the shoot. With Gurpreet Ghuggi playing the second lead, the movie is expected to be a light comedy. The social cause of drug abuse is also addressed, but in a manner that doesn't affect the commercial viability of the film, "There are no sermons. We didn't want to do anything that would make the movie look like a documentary. In the last few years, several films have highlighted various social concerns but when you look at the box-office collection of these films vis-à-vis love stories or youth-oriented plots, you realise what the audiences are looking for."
LEADING ON: Aman Dhaliwal & Gurleen Chopra
LEADING ON: Aman Dhaliwal & Gurleen Chopra

He believes that Punjabi film industry is finding audiences overseas only because of the fresh story-lines. "Try making the same NRI or female foeticide-based films and the audience will immediately switch over to mainstream cinema. The film will give returns only if people are able to relate to the characters." The Punjabi International Film Academy Awards, he says, is a sincere effort to acknowledge the efforts of Punjabi film-makers and actors.

About his role, Darshan Aulakh, who is also managing the on-ground production, says that the film doesn't have larger than life characters. "It's an entertaining film about real life situations and our aim is to value people's time and money." Wait and watch!

 

ashima@tribunemail.com

Net working! 

Madhuri Dixit to launch her official website. Actress Madhuri Dixit is the latest B-town celebrity to launch her official website. The Bollywood diva has now joined the bandwagon with stars like Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Gul Panag and others, who own their official websites.

The website has a picture of Madhuri in a black outfit.

"Here is the first reward... Official Madhuri Dixit website teaser! You can connect now. Looking forward to hearing from you!," she wrote on Twitter.

"Official teaser site is madhuridixit-nene.com! Planning a media rich experience w exclusive content for you! Thank you for your support!," Madhuri said.

After her marriage, Madhuri had relocated to Denver, US for almost a decade. Last year, she shifted her base back to Mumbai along with her family and is looking to make her comeback on big screen. — PTI 

success mantra
Designed to perfection
Mona

When studying in Chandigarh College of Architecture some three decades back, Surinder Bahga wished there were books that give a perspective on ancient Indian designs. "Had I shared this then, people would have laughed on me," says a nostalgic Surinder. Now half-a-dozen books down the lane, he is a known name. His books are part of syllabus across country in architectural schools.

Currently the chairman of IIA, Chandigarh-Punjab Chapter and National Architectural Heritage Committee, Surinder's designs from schools, churches, police memorials to energy efficient houses have won many awards and distinctions. In a world where attitude 'my way or highway' prevails, Surinder has stuck to principles of punctuality, honour and commitment. He shares his take on what makes one a success.

Work your way up

Twenty seven years in the profession now, I still do the work of two people a day. While twelve hours a day is a minimum seven days a week, I only take half a Sunday off and that to occasionally. I believe life is too short and there is a lot to accomplish; so make the best use of time.

Stick to your ethics

Not only does one need to be honest in every transaction, but also lead by example. Sticking to ethics might prolong your struggle, but in the end makes you truly happy and contented.

Honour your commitments

Here I go by family values. My father would tell me if going to Panchkula from my home - do count two minutes at each of the five lights that fall on way to be punctual. Be it for a meeting or a project deadline, once I have given a commitment I honour it even if it entails working day and night.

Bond with people

I always respect my seniors and help my juniors. One learns by following the masters and this also saddles you with the responsibility to share the knowledge you have gained. It only grows, never depletes. Tolerance and patience are two virtues that help one bond better. I take inspiration from nature; the fastest growing trees have a shorter life span. Those that take time to grow, live for hundreds of years.

Speak your mind

I am not for being indifferent towards anyone or anything in life. Don't fear to speak out your mind and be ready to bear the consequences. Be true to every job as well.

mona@tribunemail.com

Kim regrets...

Kim Kardashian broke down into tears on the season finale of her reality show, as she admitted that she regrets her failed 72-day marriage. In Kourtney and Kim Take New York, the 31-year-old reality star revealed that, in less than 72 days, her feelings for ex-husband Kris Humphries changed.

The clip sees the brunette beauty have a breakdown on the season finale of the show, sobbing uncontrollably before her older sister Kourtney. “It’s hard for me,” Kim said to her sister. “He’s a good heart, he’s a Christian - everything on paper I want in someone, but for some reason, my heart isn’t connecting.”

“I feel awful that I made him move out here and change his whole life. I feel sad, I feel bad for the guy,” she said.

“He fell in love with me and I fell in love with him and now all my feelings have changed,” she said. “I invited all these people to this huge wedding and flew everyone out, wasted everyone’s time and everyone’s money - everyone’s everything - and I feel bad!. — ANI

  Kahani mein twist...

Costume drama Chandrakanta has been the most popular show on small screen. Sunil Agnihotri the producer, director with a Midas touch made a comeback with Sahara One Television with most ambitious fantasy drama Kahani Chandrakanta Ki reportedly inspired from the book Chandrakanta Santiti. Sunil talks about his projects and life…

What kind of response have you been getting from Kahani Chandrakanta Ki?

It has been seven months since the show has gone on air. The response from the viewers has not been satisfactory because in my opinion, the new generation is not interested in costume dramas. So, we have decided to give its story a new twist with Virender Singh, the lead character who discovers himself being influenced by his past life where he plays an Ichhadhari Naag. That surely is the turning point and I believe we can expect unexpected twists where Chandrakanta’s life is concerned.

This is your large scale show with the channel. How does that make you feel?

Yes, this is my big show with the Sahara One Television. It is a big responsibility. I am putting in my best to live up to everyone’s expectations. I feel very lucky to have been associated with the renowned actors like Inder Kumar, Shikha Swaroop and Santosh Shukla.

You are a seasoned director. How has the journey been so far?

Good. I learn everyday and always stress on rehearsals before shoot.

How is working with Shikha Swaroop, Santosh Shukla and Inder Kumar?

Wonderful. They are all seasoned actors, very sincere and hardworking.

How different is this show from the earlier one?

Both shows are different. The technology has improved now. The production values, sets and locations are totally new. It is as exciting as it was. — Dharam Pal

Par Excellence 
Technology – the Driver
Jesse Grewal 

Jesse Grewal  Hitting the ball far is the greatest thrill of the game. The highest sales are of clubs which promise more distance and not the ones which are for accuracy. Every year newer models of Drivers hit the market with assurance of greater distance. The pro’s are hitting the ball longer and making par 5’s too short! Technology is helping us hit it longer especially with the ‘Driver’.

Conventionally the ‘Driver’ used to be 43.5 inches in length and this was the optimum length for ‘on centre’ contact. When the club got longer it led to ‘off centre’ hits. So club manufacturers made the club head bigger (legal limit is 460 cc) so that they could make the shaft longer as for every inch the club gets longer the club head speed increases by approximately 3 mph. With metal heads they could re-distribute the weight so that the ‘off centre’ hits would not twist the club head. This is what is called a ‘forgiving’ club. Standard shafts are now 45.5 inches long on the ‘Driver’. The face of the ‘Driver’ is made of titanium. Titanium can be made thin as it is very strong. The thinness of the face helps in the trampoline or spring effect (COR) which increases ball speed.

The problem with the increased length is that it does compromise accuracy and most club golfers are not able to square the club consistently and have varied impact positions leading to a lot of crooked shots. The average length of the ‘Driver’ amongst professionals is 44.5 inches which is an inch shorter than the ones used by club golfers! If accuracy and consistency is your problem with the ‘Driver’ choke down or hold the club an inch shorter. The loss of distance would not be significant. The loss of club head speed with a shorter shaft would be made up by the ball coming of the centre of the club head as this zone produces the maximum trampoline or spring affect.

The most important part for distance is the shaft. Shafts are classified as L (ladies), A (senior), R (regular), S (Stiff) and XS (extra stiff). The type of shaft depends on the players swing speed. Every player has his or her own acceleration pattern and it is advisable to meet a club fitter to get the right specifications. If the shaft is of the right specification we would get a ‘smash factor’ of 1.5 which is the ratio of ball speed to club head speed. If a player’s club head speed is 100 mph then the ball speed should ideally be 150 mph. If the shaft is either too stiff or too soft the ball speed would be less with the same club head speed. It is important to get fitted as the ideal ‘Driver’ makes a huge difference to the game.

HEART talk
Strange(r) connection
Parvesh Rana

I’m a twenty-five-year old working girl and usually travel alone while going and coming from work. Recently a guy approached me and complimented me on my looks. I found him decent and gave him my contact number. When I started talking to him I got to know that he is already in a live-in relationship with his girlfriend. But the problem is that we both have started liking each other. Please tell me what to do?

Kavita, Chandigarh

First of all, get it straight—you should not give your contact number to any stranger that comes your way. Please take your time to know the guy, and then only jump to any decision as it involves three people and their sentiments.

Know her better

I’m a 25-year old man and I’m married for the past six months now. Mine is an arranged marriage and now I feel that my parents just rushed me into this. We are having a lot of problems because of this reason. What should I do?

Mahesh, Ludhiana

Now that you are already married, nothing can be done. So, you should try to understand that even your wife might be going through the same uneasiness. You should become friends and take out time together only then you will mentally get prepared to spend your life together.

(Rana is a television anchor)

Thieves’ target

Pablo Picasso is the artist who has more works stolen than anyone else, a new study has found. According to the Art Loss Register, the Spanish master currently has 1,147 paintings registered as stolen, missing or disputed, which is more than twice as many as the next on the list.

art allure: Woman’s Head by  Pablo PicassoThat figure rose recently when his 1939 work Woman’s Head was pinched from the Athens’ National Art Gallery in Greece.

The Art Loss Register compiled a list of artists who have had the highest number of works stolen and the countries where the art is mostly taken from, with Britain being the most vulnerable place.

The database lists all the stolen, missing and disputed works of art around the world.

Coming second to Picasso is the American artist Nick Lawrence who has 557 stolen works. Most of them went missing in one go in 2004.

In third place is Marc Chagall, the Russian-French 20th century all-rounder, who has 516 stolen works.

Karel Appel, the Dutch painter and sculptor, came fourth with 505 stolen works, just ahead of Salvador Dali with 504. Joan Miro, David Levine, Andy Warhol, Rembrandt and Peter Reinicke rounded off the top ten. —ANI

chatter box
Love for the wild

Ever wondered what it would be like to be caged and chained for your entire life? Gauahar Khan and Nigaar Khan get a taste of Zoo life this week on Khan Sisters as they participate in a PETA photo-shoot to show their support for a cause they strongly believe in. They are kept in a cage, tied to chains and even hurt themselves in the hour long photo-shoot. Being animal lovers, the sisters get emotional during the shoot as they come face to face with the harsh treatment meted out to animals at zoos.

	Break free: Nigaar Khan & Gauhar Khan Says Gauahar, “We as living creatures love our freedom and animals are no different. If people want to sight animals, zoo is not the best place, instead animals should be observed in their natural habitat like animal reserves, where they are living the life that they were meant to live. If we can’t manage to visit them, we can learn about these amazing wild animals by watching videos, television programs or by reading about them on the internet or in books and magazines and that’s what we, the Khan sisters are hoping the audience would understand.”

End of road for Viraj?
What’s next: Karanvir Bohra New channel Life OK’s show Saubhagyavati Bhava became a hit as soon as it hit the airwaves. With his performance, looks and the role, Karanvir Bohra has impressed one and all. Now the buzz is that the makers will soon kill Viraaj. Question is will he die?

Sources claim, “This will surely be a dramatic twist and shock for one and all as in the upcoming episodes, he will die. The makers will bring in a new face in the show. But the bigger twist will be his re-entry in the serial soon. Of course, these twists and turns will not only keep everyone guessing, also will fetch more TRPs.” Karanvir didn’t confirm the track but he seems excited about the upcoming dramatic turns in the tale.

In a dilemma
Sangram Singh Off late Sangram and Payal’s relationship in the ongoing show Survivor India on Star Plus has gone for a toss. Sangram Singh, a wrestler from Punjab has been monitoring his girlfriend’s moves carefully and was extremely insecure when he saw her bonding with the new comer on the show, Shivam. Shivam is a charming lad from Mumbai and is trying to be at his best for the lady. He was off late seen teaching her to swim and give her special massages while the entire tribe is at work.

Definitely the lack of attention from Payal is causing Sangram a lot of stress. It’s difficult for him to concentrate on the task or the day to day affairs on the island. He has grown extremely fond of her in a short span of time and doesn’t want to let her go. He is trying to keep himself busy by involving himself in strategising and using his mind to win the game. “Payal ka screw dheela hai par, but I like her,” says Sangram Singh. With a restless mind, will Sangram be able to survive on Survivor India or will he exit from the show soon.

The cause behind
SOCIAL ACT: Ram Kapoor & Sakshi Tanwar After using her hit show Bade Acche Lagte Hain on Sony TV to promote her film, The Dirty Picture and Vidya Balan, producer Ekta Kapoor has now decided to use the show once again but this time for a good cause.

Sources claim, “Ekta will spread awareness about breast cancer through her show and talk about the illness bringing a three week-long emotional track. Ekta feels Ram Kapoor and Sakshi Tanwar will be able to sensitively portray the seriousness of the issue. TV has a great reach and it is important to use popular shows for such causes. Viewers can learn through the small screen and become aware of important issues and how to deal with them. They will promote that people should get regular check-ups and if diagnosed in advance, breast cancer can be controlled and treated.” 

ANOTHER TRY: Sunil Agnihotri Cowell to launch cookery show
Music mogul Simon Cowell will soon launch a cookery show to give competition to the popular cookery game show MasterChef. “I believe it will be a ratings winner, which will oust MasterChef,” said the 52-year-old. Cowell is also collaborating with actress Jada Pinkett-Smith on a new international TV show, which will hunt for the world’s greatest DJ. — IANS

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is January 31...

The year starts off smoothly with a positive work atmosphere and good communication with colleagues. You may also want to spend a little time in organising your desk and work area in order to avoid confusion. Avoid initiating anything new, and watch out for small conflicts with co-workers around March. Difficulties will ease off slightly in September, but you’ll still have to tighten your belt financially. However, don’t worry as something will soon change. This is a phase where your relationship is consolidated. Some tasks will require more personal attention. Try your best to focus your skills on one thing for maximum success; you’ve racked up enough failures as it is. If you can break free of your shackles, you can really fly. Some traditions need to end before you can start on a better pattern. Do not be afraid of new ways. You should stop being nervous about your chance to take a big leap forward.

Mood: Forceful and dynamic at times

Compatible signs: Gemini, Aquarius, Pisces

Lucky colours: Sea Green & Silver

Lucky days: Saturday.

Lucky numbers: 1, 6, 11, 15, 32

Preity ZintaLucky gem: Jade

Preity Zinta (January 31, 1975, Shimla) shot to fame with the Liril ad. She also modelled for Perk and her dimpled smile won the hearts of million. Kya Kehna. Dil Se, Koi Mil Gaya, Dil Chahta Hai are some notable films. She won the IIFA Style Diva Award (2005). Astrologically Preity’s marriage is delayed but career wise she will continue to thrill. 

Astro Turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Try to keep your business plans secret. An unexpected guest may gate crash. A romantic mood can colour even the toughest situation with rosy hay. Your ability to look beyond the obvious will impress your supervisor. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the delays that come your way. 
Lucky colour: Coffee brown
Magic number: 41

TAURUS: You will begin the day with energy & confidence. People are drawn to you; but do not trust them. Loan to a friend only means trouble. This evening, friends can disrupt domestic bliss. Tarot message: Bury an old quarrel and be prepared to make a compromise. 
Lucky colour: Orange
Magic number: 33

GEMINI: This is a great day to get your ideas down on the paper and start planning your next project. Do not let people intrude your space if you need solitude. Good day for dealing with accounts. Tarot message: Be careful not to go in too many directions.
Lucky colour: Lemon
Magic number: 39

CANCER: Romance and creativity are highlighted. This is also the perfect time for initiating a new personal project. Family matters can keep you busy in the evening. Misunderstanding must be guarded against. The change of job is not advisable. Tarot message: Listen to your voice of wisdom. 
Lucky colour: Baby pink. 
Magic number: 27

LEO: Spot light is on fashion, appearance & charm.  Romance and passion are on the cards. Do not allow feelings of frustration to over take you. Newly married: adjustment takes times.  Setback will only be temporary. Tarot message: Learn a lesson from past mistakes and get on with your life. 
Lucky colour: Coral. 
Magic number: 60

VIRGO: Your card reveals physical activity and pleasure. Do not start this day by being extravagant. You must cut down on spending. Loved ones will not be very helpful. Exercise will have a very positive effect on your mood. Tarot message: Think before you speak to avoid misunderstandings. Lucky colour: Indigo. Magic number: 42

LIBRA: It is the time to begin new projects, contracts. Travel will prove futile. Focus on religious discourses. Enjoy this evening with your spouse. An Arian beloved may treat you as a doormat. If you are partying, watch out what you eat and drink.Tarot message: Focus on fitness and healthy diets. 
Lucky colour: Lime green. 
Magic number: 54

SCORPIO: Confusion over priorities can cause havoc in the work-place. Not such a sensitive day for financial matters. Do not interfere in others affairs. Loved ones will back your new ideas. A good day for purchasing ornaments. Tarot message: Keep in mind that perseverance is key to success. 
Lucky colour: Sky blue. 
Magic number: 63

SAGITTARIUS: A career switch can mean having to move out of state or overseas. You may spend quite a lot of time on planning. Business matters are fairly well under control. Consider getting involved in charitable work. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. 
Lucky colour: Sea green
Magic number: 55

CAPRICORN: Stick to the beaten track today and look after yourself. At the end of the day, you will be proud of what you have achieved and could be rewarded with a bonus. Long term investments may mature. Women: Work burden increases. A Capricorian friend comes for help. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. 
Lucky colour: Rust. 
Magic number: 38

AQUARIUS: Students : Light reading will keep you busy today. Money will be very important to you. Health problem can be satisfactorily treated. You should find that there is a large number of issues between you and your colleagues. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. 
Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 40

PISCES: Take this time to expand your social circle, develop new talents; learn new hobbies or plan a vacation. You may be introduced to new people who are destined to become firm friends. Tarot message: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a situation. 
Lucky colour: golden
Magic number: 28





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 |