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Going global
Saturday witnessed a host of Bollywood guests descend onto city beautiful Ali Zafar, Goldie Behl Aditi Rao, Tusshar Kapoor, Kulraj Randhawa…to name a few.
Jasmine Singh catches up…
No matter how you look at them, talk about their superficial glamourous lifestyles; their endless rumours, break-ups or tie-ups, you simply can’t ignore them. This time a couple of them decided to descend on to Chandigarh at the same time and each one had a story to tell —about upcoming projects, journey so far and a few lighter moments that made work interesting. The first ones to hog the limelight is the cast and crew of London Paris New York — the introvert but ‘coming-out-of-his-shell’ Ali Zafar, the otherwise ‘prefer-to-be-in-the-backdrop’ Goldie Behl and the pretty-looking Aditi Rao. Of the three, yes you guessed it right; Ali Zafar was indeed a crowd-puller. Here I come…
He came with Tere Bin Laden and thereafter decided to stay back. Or you can say the industry gave him enough reasons to stay back! Mere Brother Ki Dulhan and now London Paris New York, the cute, good looking Ali Zafar is the pin-up boy of Bollywood. You are here to stay, we bet! He laughs “I like it here. Shouldn’t I stay back then? I have done two successful projects, I am getting good scripts and lastly, I am working hard…reasons enough to stay back.” Hey, did you miss out on the female fan-following; all the adulation, the compliments? Ali tries not to blush, but we catch the glitter in his eyes well in time. “As a person and actor, I don’t intend to take it seriously. I just pray that I keep doing the good work.” That’s being modest. But the actor hasn’t shown ‘difficult-to-digest’ changes after Tere Bin Laden. He still makes sense. “To me a substantial script is very important. I go through it properly and then take my call. I also believe that a good script finds the right people. Like for London Paris New York, all like-minded people are involved in a single project,” shares Ali who is glad to be living his passion for singing in this movie, where he has written the lyrics and sung the songs as well! Any news from home? “They are happy that I am doing well. They expect that I keep it up without hurting anyone’s sentiments.”
Direct take
Star Power
He has been part of the industry for long. He makes movies like Drona, Bus Itna Sa Khwaab Hai and he loves every bit of his work. Goldie Behl, the director, producer, script-writer is never ‘seriously’ affected by the tag of a hit or a flop. “I wouldn’t stop making movies after one successful venture, so why should I stop after any flop?” says the freshly turned producer, who is on the look-out for fresh talent that can give shape to the ideas. This time he handles work behind the camera as a producer. “I am often asked how it feels to be a producer and director. I have just one answer, there is enough creativity in production and enough economics in direction,” he smiles. We can move ahead, if you have got his point. Big budget, that’s the name here! “I think the name is genre films. Audiences like to see films that are interesting. With big budget, a director has to deal with many other things,” he adds. This is for the first time we hear Goldie Behl talk so much. “This time someone else is handling direction, so I can travel and talk.” jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Man of his own notes
Like father like son… santoor player Rahul Sharma, son of santoor maestro Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, may have followed in his father’s footsteps but his calling is also guided by influences that are very much his own
The father oozes spiritually and the son brims with confidence. Santoor player Rahul Sharma, in Chandigarh at the invitation of the Pracheen Kala Kendra that honoured his illustrious father santoor maestro Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, has come a long way from the times when pressures of being his father’s son weighed heavy on his shoulders. Great expectations, unfair comparisons lie buried in the distant past, in the first year of his career as a performing artiste. Those were also the days when with his good looks, he could easily have made it as a Bollywood hero. And the young musician does reveal he was approached by many film producers. He quips, “No way was I going to make a fool of myself.” Never mind that he has over 15 music videos to his credit! But like father like son… he did say yes to composing film music and has done it for Mujhse Dosti Karoge. Thereafter more offers followed. But while he doesn’t rule out film music completely, it doesn’t occupy prime space on his radar. You bet classical music is his first love. But this torchbearer of his father’s legacy has other musical interests too. He has not only collaborated with pianist Richard Clayderman, but also saxophone player Kenny G. Indeed, fusion comes naturally to him. Yet at the same time creating musical confluences with artists he has idolised isn’t easy either. And is it easy to perform while father dearest, also his guru, is among the audiences? Well, it is a rare occasion but Pandit Shiv Kumar was there for his concert with Clayderman. The experience doesn’t unnerve him as for Rahul, Panditji is a father first and guru later. Anyways, as a rule he tries not to think of the audiences except when they are youngsters. Yes, he takes his role as young ambassador of classical music rather seriously and says, “The youth relate to me and other musicians of my age more because we are like them… only we are playing classical music.” So if he is playing at say an IIT for 5,000 students, he would certainly dovetail the concert to suit their tastes. As a representative of the younger generation of artistes does he think he and others like him have had it easier as compared to artistes of his father’s generation? He replies, “See when my father began playing there was only one radio. Today, there are over 100 television channels but the competition is no less cut-throat; rather is more severe.” Of course, that doesn’t deter him from following his calling or to take santoor to newer heights. But hasn’t the father touched the pinnacle already? Smiles Rahul, “Sure, but he did not foray into fusion. And today the world’s highest selling musicians like Kenny G have recorded with santoor.” Like all sons he may have grown up with his father as the role model, but has been open to many other musical influences like that of Beatles, Pink Floyd and Sting. So Rahul’s future plans may not have a clear-cut goal post and factor in “taking life one day at a time.” But one thing is crystal clear. Not the one to be bogged down by father’s towering persona, this talented son is determined to forge his own path. With several albums up his sleeve, he has in fact sailed ahead.
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Balm for the soul
What does a child abandoned in a dustbin at the tender age of two months have to hope from her life ahead? That is exactly where miracles happen. Rampreet’s life has been about this. Now at 16, she is grateful that her misfortune at birth brought her in contact with Baba Iqbal Singh, who she now considers her father.
It was this contact that brought Rampreet to the Akal Academy, a school being run by the Kalgidhar Trust, in Baru Sahib. Rampreet has been learning sirandha and sarangi. In Chandigarh to talk about the association of the school’s Gurbani telecast with a television channel, Rampreet, along with four other students, speaks about their natural connection with God and music. The young students, from diverse backgrounds, recite gurbani by understanding music in their divine music lessons. The school, although about modern education, also interweaves spiritual education to make the students better citizens.
School of thought
The Kalgidhar Trust was established in 1906 with a mission to bring education and spirituality together. The school, Akal Academy, established in 1986, currently has 111 schools and over 60,000 students. Rediscovering the stringed instruments, the school teaches all classes from KG to Masters under one roof.
Simrangjit Kaur, all of 15, joined the academy when she was 10 years old. Hailing from Uttam Nagar, she lived with her grandparents before she moved to the school. “This place feels like heaven,” she says. Planning to complete her course in banking, she plays the harmonium and sings the gurbani, knowing it like the back of her hand. It was her inclination towards spiritual education, which brought Maninjit Kaur, 21, to the institute. An expert on the Harmonium, she hopes to complete her BSc in Economics and try for civil services examination. “I hope to clear IAS exams in two years,” she says. In India, the inclination towards God is still a binding factor. Ramneet Kaur, all of 14, has left her very comfortable life in Las Vegas to be a part of the institute. “All my sisters have studied from here and just love talking about Baru Sahib,” Ramneet says. For Ishleen Juneja, who plays saranda, it has been the desire to stick with simplicity, which brought her to the academy. “Being Lucknow-based, we are very simple people. This is a way to preserve that and have a connection with divine powers. Feeling lucky about the decision to study here, the girls mirror the bliss of a calm soul. vasudha@tribunemail.com
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Justice for jodis
Bipasha Basu, R. Madahavan and Omi Vaidya, in Chandigarh to promote their upcoming venture Jodi Breakers, are every bit their real selves With Bipasha Basu, one expects a sexy, revealing and glamorous outfit each time she steps out in public. But at Hotel Marriott in Chandigarh on Saturday, the Bong beauty was dressed in simple clothes and yet won many a heart. Along with her were R Madhavan and Omi Vaidya, the star cast of Jodi Breakers, here to promote their upcoming venture that is set for a February 24 release. In a white-frilled long top, a short white-and-black-buttoned pullover, bottomed up with tight-fitting slacks and blue ballerinas to go with, Bipasha looked as sexy as ever. And not to miss…the soft curls! Madhavan and Omi were casually dressed as well, so the entire focus remained on Jodi Breakers. "The story of the movie is quite interesting; Bipasha and I are portrayed as Jodi Breakers, but only for people who are genuinely not happy with their relations," Madhavan gets going.
We wonder why the characters of Bipasha and Madhavan as Sonali and Sid, respectively, successful despite them playing divorce professionals! What is their personal take on relations? Says Bipasha, "Being single, I think a relationship is very important and that too with the right person who makes you happy, no matter what you do in life. Trust me; we are not the baddies in the movie but do justice." This is the very first time that Madhavan and Bipasha have been paired onscreen. Bips being the bold beauty and Madhavan totally introvert, do opposites attract? "Maybe I look better with spicy co-actors, but Bips is a purely romantic person in the movie and the story demanded characters like us," adds Madhavan. Bips feels Madhavan was the perfect pair for her. "I loved the script and chased it as well. I think Madhavan and I share a wicked kind of romance," says Bipasha. We can't help but ask Bipasha how she feels about the item song in her name titled Bipasha? "Initially, I was skeptical about the song because the focus was on me but later when it was composed I liked it very much." Charges of plagiarism are never far away from Bollywood. Clearing the air on Jodi Breakers not being a copy of Belgian flick Heartbreakers, Madavan says, "These all are false accusations. Such things keep happening." Madhavan is no doubt the perfect actor, one with whom a common man can relate and he is seen as an introvert in almost all his roles. "At best I can relate my real self to the characters of Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein and 3 Idiots," he says. In all this chat, we almost forget Omi Vaidya, the Chatur from 3 Idiots. Managing to speak Hindi in his accent, Omi says, "This movie has a similar speech like 3 Idiots and people who take alcohol will love it for sure. Omi, who is playing the character of Kamdev, says people just know about his comedy skills and his flair for writing will be revealed in his scripts in the future, which includes some supernatural thrillers. "I have attended a school where I made short films and learnt editing, so that's how I'm putting my hands into production as well," says Omi. Coming back to Bipasha; she has shed a lot of weight but does not believe in size zero. "One should stay fit," she opines. "If other actors have six packs I have six bags," quips Madhavan. As for the future, Bips will finish shooting for her Hollywood film Singularity in April and is working on Raaz 3; Omi has the remake of Satte Pe Satta with Sanjay Dutt in the pipeline. Madhavan waits for the right project hoping that Raj Kumar Hirani will reunite the 3 Idiots cast in a sequel. Till then all eyes on Jodi Breakers.
sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com |
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Astro turf
ARIES: Charm, diplomacy, respect and cooperation are far better attributes to employ while dealing with people if you want positive results. Job applications will yield good results.Tarot message: Do what is right and watch out for your best interests. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 65
TAURUS: A pleasant day for everything. Be prepared for multiple invitations to social events and gatherings. Turn your attention to jobs that gives yourself an opportunity to make the best use of your intellect. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Royal blue. Magic number: 36 GEMINI: It is time to distinguish between wants and needs. Your desires seem to have no end but your bank account will dry up before your wants. You can look forward to hearing from a friend. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Cream.
Magic number: 33 CANCER: A healthy competitive instinct can be harnessed for greater accomplishment. Stick to what you know and you won’t go wrong. There may be trouble brewing in the family. Tarot message: Versatility and a quicksilver mind will bail you out of a tricky situation. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 64 LEO: Doing overtime or dealing with a crisis are possible reasons for being dragged back to the workplace. Make the best of it by doing what must be done quickly and effectively. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of will power.
Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 24 VIRGO: You should give a serious thought to your business. Decisions that need to be made especially involving career should not be put off. You have the clear headedness and courage to bite the bullet. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Silver
grey. Magic number: 54
LIBRA: A major domestic purchase can be made with confidence but may not be available until next week. Be patient, even though you want it immediately. Love life suffers due to family problems. Tarot message: Take limited risks with you capital.
Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 60 SCORPIO: Put knowledge into practice. Working women, be careful while dealing with clients. Businessmen will find the day hectic. A nagging doubt gets cleared. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way.
Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 29 SAGITTARIUS: Your card is Fortune, so this can be a good day on the financial front. Try your luck at a range of speculative possibilities. Women between the age group of 40-45, take care of your health. Tarot message: Use careful judgment in handling issues involving property. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 61 CAPRICORN: Relations with fellow workers are on a high and your popularity will increase. If you shoot for what you really want, it might happen. Businessmen, think before signing a new deal. Tarot message: There will be minor difficulties at work. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels.
Magic number: 55 AQUARIUS: Avoid getting involved with demanding social issues. Workers in the factories will create problems. Newly-married will find the home atmosphere tense. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Pomegranate red. Magic number: 32 PISCES: Your card Four of Wands promises an excellent day. Fatigue? Monotony? Take a break. Preventing health problem is better than treating them. Group activities should be highly successful. Tarot message: Delays are the only obstacle in your way to success. Lucky colour: Ebony.
Magic number: 42
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The year ahead
If your birthday is February 19...
An incident involving miscommunication, missed messages or missed meetings, which causes a change of plans, is likely in March. A mail, which escapes your attention, may well carry some important financial message - are there bills or fees you haven't paid? Co-workers, secretaries, receptionists and other people that you may normally take for granted, but who keep the flow of your life smooth may be unaccountably inconsistent or simply keep you at bay. In June, you are more sensitive to beauty, as also the feelings and needs of others. It is easy for you to be generous, as you sympathize strongly with other people. Co-workers will remark on your good mood and will be more willing to work with you. Someone around you compliments you on your generosity. Image may not be everything, but you should be wise to think about what you're projecting. A squeaky wheel gets greased; a presenter of solutions gets props. Then the financial angle demands particular attention. Everyone's invested here, so you'll want to tread lightly, but nonetheless, it's a road you must go down. Attractive opportunities to grow professionally will come your way, but don't be afraid. Those with an ascendant in Cancer should avoid gossip and focus on their job, as work will be onerous and demand precision. First and foremost, take care of cleaning up the mess that you have created. Love life will take an interesting turn both for the married and the single. The next few months could see you indulging in an exciting romance. Financially, a beneficial phase would begin and May is favourable for consolidating your position. Business folk might seriously consider expanding their enterprise since they are likely to receive a contract from an overseas organization. You would be blessed with progress in life through support from some unexpected quarters. Mood: Content; almost too much. Compatible signs: Pisces, Leo, Aries. Lucky colours: Misty Rose, Olive. Lucky days: Tuesday. Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 16, 23, 32. Lucky gem: Kyanite. Lucky flower: Orchid
Sonu Walia (February 19, 1964, New Delhi) won the Miss India pageant and has a Chandigarh connection. Khoon Bhari Maang and Aakarshan are her notable films. She has come back after a break and is busy with new productions, but her stars are not favourable now due to a Rahu dasha.
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Lines of beauty
Satish Narula
Using plants to highlight the architectural lines of the buildings is an old practice. For this mostly climbers are used that train as per the building contours and thus do not hide the building lines. Plants are also fitted in the landscape plans to match the building design and direction. The nature, however, expresses itself in the form of strange kind of creations to show its beauty aspect. As no two persons are alike, the different tree species show variation in form and growth and some of them are remarkably beautiful. As the ageing brings grace, in some of the trees too, the beauty comes with time and growth. See the accompanying picture, the tree is Erythrina crista galli. The tree after the first few years starts seasoning its main trunk that bears woody-corky look with grooves. The bending of the trunk gives this plant an artistic posture. It is a typical example of structural architecture in nature. There is one such tree standing near the fountain in the Zakir Rose Garden in Chandigarh. The beautiful specimen of the tree has become a spot for the photo shoot for visitors. This tree is also known to bear amazing blooms resembling that of an anthurium. The tree is also drought-resistant and not fussy about its cultural requirements. The tree is known by this name and has no common name. Whereas the Erythrina is known for its trunk and floral beauty, Sterculia alata also known as Buddha’s coconut tree, so called due to its coconut like seed fruit. The tree is very stately and has firm straight growing main trunk that may rise up to 40 feet without any bend. The beauty of the tree also lies in the base of the main trunk that forms excellent buttress on the ground. The main trunk spreads in phalanges like sections that form triangular shape on many vertical columns. (Narula is a senior horticulturist at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana)
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Young and wise
Yogi Ashwini, in his book Sanatan Kriya, The Ageless Dimension, talks about how to stay young the natural way
To turn the wheel around, Yogi Ashwini stresses that it’s time we reached out to our roots. “Try doing that and see the phenomenal effects,” he says. In Chandigarh for the book launch of Sanatan
Kriya, The Ageless Dimension, Yogi Ashwini says, “When one looks around, it’s the mechanical, superficial life that hits one in the face. For youthful looks, people are undergoing laser as well as silicon implants that do the body more harm than good.” Yogi’s book brings the wisdom of the Vedas and the latest from the medical world together. Divided in 16 chapters, this book deals with the harmful effects of the present lifestyle and on how to tackle that. “The book has
kriyas, one of them called Kaya Kalp Kriya, that helps one retain the youthful
vigour. Also, it has instructions on how to make rasayan (serums) that have potent effect.” Why is it so important to look young? “Well, for many it goes beyond just the looks. They relate growing old to negativity, to that of everything going out of their hands.” That’s for the body (also, mind). If you want set the emotional turmoil of life in order, Yogi Ashwini recommends going to a cremation ground and observing a burning pier. “The ones closest to us, hurt us the most, including our body. It’s paramount for us to realise the truth and
know meaning of the life beyond!” Last but not the least, Yogi recommends Sanatan
kriya. “A very old yogic asana, Sanatan Kriya brings balance in life. Try doing that, and, I assure that no negativity in life will touch you ever,” he signs
off. mona@tribunemail.com
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Melodious version
The song I’ll Do the Talking from the Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor starrer Agent Vinod is finally out. It has music by Pritam and is sung by Neeraj Sridhar. The lyrics are penned down by Amitabh Bhattacharya and the USP is that the song is Pritam’s take on Rasputin by the yesteryear’s hit group Boney M. But the song is based more on the Serbian folk song Ruse Kose Curo Imas. A Turkish folk song Uskudar’a Gider Iken also has the same melody. Grooves and moves
The video has cool grooves and scenes that go along with the fabulous track and the lyrics inject a party mood. I love the song and the adaptation of Rasputin in its Bollywood form is what makes the song so special. Naini Singh, housewife Different take
This song has a different feel to it, as it is an item number but not a raunchy one, so it can be enjoyed listening with everyone. Saif Ali Khan and Kareena also look amazing as an on-screen couple as well. Rohini Seth, student, PU Perfect choice
The song has the perfect tune along with Neeraj Sridhar and Aditi Sharma’s scintillating vocals. I love the song so much that I’m addicted to it. It is the perfect number to hit the dance floor. Abhay Pushkarna, employee, ICICI bank (As told to Sabia
Talwar)
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Jeanetically modified!
Computer experts have invented an avant-garde pair of jeans that are equipped with a set of speakers, a wireless mouse and a keyboard embedded into the upper thigh regions. The dungarees of the dot com age are the brainchild of Dutch twenty-somethings, Erik de Nijs and Tim Smit, of design company Nieuwe Heren, which translates to “new gents”, the Discovery News reported. The jeans were designed to “combine fashion and technology,” de Nijs said.
“The idea was that you could log in to your computer and control it without sitting in a closed environment behind your desk.” Aesthetically, the jeans have two things going for them - what looks to be quality denim and, perhaps the best feature, their orange stitching embroidered to resemble a circuit board. However, the keyboard’s ergonomic, left-thigh placement of the alphabet could be Beauty and the Geek’s saving elegance. But one of the drawbacks is that the return key is located in the jeans’ crotch. The right back pocket has been particularly designed so the mouse fits snugly inside. The mouse is connected to the jeans through a strip of elastic and the pants come with a USB device that plugs into users’ computers so a wireless connection can
be maintained. “The whole project is too complex and we don’t have enough money right now to get it ready for the market,” de Nijs added.
— ANI |
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We now have a wide exposure to fashion and trends. The influences can come from Bollywood, Hollywood or the ramp. Young girls and boys today incorporate these influences judiciously and they become fashion icons. Winsome final year student Naina Chhabra sure knows her mind when it comes to fashion: Your sense of style… I like simplistic style with a touch of elegance. A well-fitted pair of jeans and nice coloured top would be ideal. One should feel confident in whatever one wears. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… A navy blue shirt from Forever. Brand crazy or street pick-ups? Brands all the way Your style icon would be……. Sonam Kapoor. Her dressing style is totally unique. Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? Has to be Vidya Balan, of course! Which look would your prefer – sporty, chic or glamorous? Chic! One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension….. Big woollen socks with jeans and dhoti pants really irk me. Your take on accessories? I don’t like to wear them on regular basis but on occasions yes, I like to coordinate them with my attire. What gives you a high on the confidence level? When I am happy and satisfied by the way I look, I feel very confident If given the chance you would like to be dressed by Neeta Lulla and Manish Malhotra. (As told to Poonam Bindra)
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Chatter box
At a women’s award function organised by Indian Television Awards, we saw all the bahus of telly town participating for a song and dance event. Rati Pandey, Drasthi Dhami, Suhashi Dhami, Diyanka Tripathi, Jiaa Manek, Priyal Gor, Sanaya Irani and others came together to celebrate womanhood with their varied performances and tributes to women in films. Shocking twist In Iss Pyar Ko Kya Naam Doon, Arnav and Khushi will shock everyone. At Payal and Aakash’s wedding, they will turn up and announce their marriage which will stun one and all. Later, this will lead on to twists in the dramatic love story of Arnav and Khushi who will deal with Anjali and her husband Shyam. Zee’s maha episode
Zee TV plans to make February 20 a grand evening as for the first time, the channel has created a special segment that will bring together the channel’s saas-bahus at 10 pm in Mrs Kaushik Ki Paanch Bahuein to find a match for Zee TV’s newest beti – Aarti (Kratika Sengar)! None other than Savita Parbhune (Sulochna tai of Pavitra Rishta), Krutika Desai (Bharti of Ram Milaayi Jodi), Rati Pandey (Indira of Hitler Didi), Rubina Dilaik(Radhika of Choti Bahu) and Mitali Nag (Krishna of Afsar Bitiya) will be Aarti’s evangelists as they enlist the help of matchmaker Savitri Devi (played by Urvashi Dholakia). Five-coin someone Unlike KBC where money is the lure, in Imagine’s Gyaan Guru, a grandma was happy winning just five coins. She has five grand children and winning coins for them was her drive. The 71-year-old lady won five rounds and refused to play further. Shilpa all out for revenge
It’s revenge time for Shilpa Saklani on Star Plus’ Survivor India. While the actress was excited to be back in the game, she was also game to get her revenge from the person who backstabbed her. On learning that JD was the mastermind behind her elimination, Shilpa swore that she “won’t allow a cheater to prosper”. In fact, she was so adamant about her decision to take revenge that she decided to plot along with her biggest fan on the island, Shivam. While everyone is going against the mastermind, Payal and Sangram catch JD red-handed and confront JD about his lie regarding Shilpa’s vote. Since JD is in a spot now, would his tribe trust him anymore?
— HRM
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VJ Gaurav Kapur was part of Fox Traveller’s new show Freaky Traveller as a judge and mentor. He talks about the project and what excites him the most. What are you doing in this show? Along with the producers of Freaky Traveller, I judged the contestants who auditioned for the show. There were many who applied to be the host on the show and we chose the most suitable contestant Brij Bhakta. He is a stand-up comedian, an America-returned Indian. Along with his natural talent for comical antics, Brij will go on a crazy journey in India. What are the qualities a host should have? A good TV host is someone who is comfortable in front of the camera. He is himself and never conscious of the camera yet talking to the camera and to the audiences watching the programme at home. The host has to be engaging and interesting. What is the X-factor of Brij? He has a laidback attitude which is his plus point. He is cool and himself, which is most relaxing to watch. He doesn’t hurry up while talking and takes the viewers through a leisurely pace. What does Freaky Traveller involve? The show will take viewers to new and old places wherein Brij will dig out freaky stuff to do. In the 13 episodes of the show, Brij will travel all around the country and showcase unique elements of our country. How have your experiences as a host been? They have been good but I wonder why would people want to host travel shows. Perhaps they look at the adventurous side but then there is the demanding schedule and tiring journeys too. What else is happening in your life? I was ill recently but now I am better. I am taking it easy while working on a show for Nat-geo.
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Her niece Ganga filled in for her absence. No details are available about Gualbo's son's accident or his condition. "Unfortunately, Gulaboji's son met with an accident and she couldn't make it. I am really waiting to go back and meet her. I hope for the best," Pallavi said after the show. "But I am obliged by her effort. She couldn't make it, but she has sent her niece Ganga because she didn't want to ruin the show. She told me that 'performance will happen and the show must go on,'" she added. After her performance Ganga, who calls Gulabo her guru, said: "I never thought that I would ever perform in a show like this. The entire experience was really nice." Pallavi took inspiration from Rajasthan for her collection, a mix of Western and Indian wear with garments like gowns, dresses, anarkalis with Rajasthani embroidery. The colour palette included red, beige and orange. Through her show, Pallavi even tried to create awareness about female foeticide.
— IANS
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Unlucky in love
George Clooney admits he has had his share of heartache, despite his reputation as a super-confident ladies' man. He has revealed that one of his ex-girlfriends had cheated on him and left him for another guy.
"I've been) left for someone; all those things. And it was sometimes a surprise," he said. "The most painful was when I kept trying to get (one woman) back. But we all make dumb mistakes," he said. Clooney, who split from Italian beauty Elisabetta Canalis last year and is currently dating former wrestler Stacy Keibler, also admited he gets lonely when romances turn sour. "I have been infinitely more alone in a bad relationship; there's nothing more isolating," he said.
— ANI |
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Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is a hands-on mother to her beautiful daughter. She has refused to hire a nanny and does everything for the baby herself. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is completely enjoying motherhood since she became a mother on November 16, 2011. Her baby is unnamed yet at three months old! Many Hollywood and Bollywood parents such as Beyonce and Jay Z, Angeline Jolie and Brad Pitt, Sanjay and Maanayata Dutt, and Farah Khan and Shirish Kunder have more than one nanny to look after children but Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wants to bond with her baby completely. Her baby is the centre of her attention and life. A source informs us, "Ash is focused on her baby. She feeds her, bathes her, clothes her, changes her diapers, you name it, she does it. She has hardly made any public appearances except for a couple of weddings. She is not concerned about losing weight. She stays in her baby's room and doesn't even come out to eat. She eats in her baby's room. Her family has given her the freedom to get a nanny but she is happy doing it all on her own. She is not even looking forward to making a comeback till her baby is older. She knows that fame is fickle but her baby is forever! She is enjoying motherhood to the hilt because she has always wanted to be a mother." We wonder when the beautiful girl will get a suitable name.
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Vishla Bhardwaj is working with Imran Khan in Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola. Imran is getting fat for the movie and is also sporting a beard along with ear piercings. Now, Vishal has gifted him an expensive bike to ride as part of his preparation work. He wants him to become a better rider. The bike is a Royal Enfield 500 cc and is estimated to cost INR 2 lakh.
A source says, "Imran's rustic character is requires that he ride the bike in a few scenes so Vishal wants him to perfect the art of bike riding. He will have to ride on the winding roads of Rajasthan as the film will be shot over there. Imran had to prepare earlier but he was busy with pre-release and post-release activities of Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu but now there is no escaping from the perfectionism of Vishal Bhardwaj. Imran is a very sincere actor and quite a perfectionist himself. He likes doing ground work for his movies and has grown into his own over the years. The source continues, "Imran has not got time to enjoy the success of EMAET because he has to prepare for Vishal's film. The film is a dark comedy and Anushka has a very spicy character which suits her personality. It is most likely that there will be intimate scenes between the two and they are professionals so they have no problems and trust Vishal completely. It will be an image makeover for them. The movie should release later this year."
— HRM
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Superstar Amitabh Bachchan, who had successful abdominal surgery last week, may have to undergo a second operation anytime soon. As a result, his daughter Shweta Nanda cancelled her wedding anniversary party on the 6th of February to be with her father and stayed back in Mumbai. Even his son returned from Jaipur to be by his side.
"Shweta's wedding anniversary today, but she stayed back to be by my side ... daughters are the best ... Abhishek returns from Jaipur shoot to be with us...greatest joy for parents is the love of their children…all else comes afterwards," Amitabh updated on his twitter page.We wish Mr. Bachchan a speedy recovery!
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Tailor-made
Hollywood actor Hugh Grant wants the Bridget Jones' Diary franchise to be "significantly reinvented". Plans are underway for a third film in the series but the actor—who played Daniel Cleaver in the earlier movies, insists he and co-stars Colin Firth and Renee Zellweger have not yet agreed to appear.
"I did like playing Daniel Cleaver, but there is no definite part three. None of the three of us have signed up yet. There's been a number of drafts that have had great things but haven't quite hit the bulls eye. But they're working on it again with yet another writer, as soon as they get to a good point we will do it. It's has to be significantly reinvented," Grant said. The actor also said the third movie will have to be set some time after the last sequel, 2004's Bridget Jones Diary: The Edge of Reason, because he and his co-stars look "ancient". "I don't think you could pretend that it's a year after the end of the last one because we look ancient now, all three of us."
— PTI
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Singer Adele finds it easier to express her emotions though her songs than in conversation. The 23-year-old singer's last album 21 contained numerous songs about her bitter split from an ex-boyfriend and she said she isn't able to bare her soul in conversation like she can through her songs. "In person, I can never talk about my feelings. If you were my man and we were having a serious conversation, I'd be laughing. Or just crying. I can never be articulate with how something is making me feel. I can never find the words," Adele said. The singer, who is currently dating Simon Konecki, says the words and emotions just pour out of her when she writes her songs. "I have no idea where it comes from.I'm quite limited when it comes to just chatting. But my head comes alive when I'm writing music," she added. — PTI
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Pop star Janet Jackson has hinted at the possibility of joining The X Factor to fill in the gap left by the sacking of Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger. She is in preliminary talks to join the high profile show, which is set for a makeover after poor ratings.
The singer admitted that she is in the fray to join the show as a judge during a chat show on a television channel. "Oh my God. No, I'm not a judge on The X Factor," the 45-year-old said when asked by Anderson Cooper. "You're not currently a judge on The X Factor," said Cooper. "No, I am not. But that's all I really think I should say," Jackson said. The pop star is in talks as Cowell hunts for potential candidates to fill in the shoes of ousted judges Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones. Cowell has also acknowledged an interest in Katy Perry. — PTI
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Sienna Miller joins the cast of A Case Of You
Factory Girl star Sienna Miller and Brendan Fraser have joined the cast of romance-comedy A Case Of You. The 30-year-old, who is expecting her first child with fiance Tom Sturridge in June, will start shooting for the film soon in New York. The cast also includes Justin Long, Evan Rachel Wood, Vince Vaughn and Peter Dinklage. The movie tells the story of a young writer who impresses a girl by making up an online profile, but he is forced to try to keep up the act when she falls in love with him. Miller was last seen in 2009 action film G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra.
— PTI
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The recent brawl between SRK and Farah Khan's husband Shirish Kunder was just about cooling down after both sides apparently met and sorted things out. However, SRK doesn't seem to have plans of letting it go so easily. At a recent event where King Khan launched a Don 3 game, our sources heard him passing sarcastic comments about Farah Khan. This occurred when the Don 3 game he was showcasing stopped mid-way, due to some technical glitches. SRK jested that the game seemed to have been choreographed by Farah Khan. We can't help wonder if this was truly said in good humour or is SRK still brooding over the recent incident with Farah and Shirish? Or is this a strategy to keep this PR machinery running?
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Two hands full
Actress and mum-of-two Gwyneth Paltrow has ruled out having another child with her rocker husband Chris Martin.
Paltrow confesses the
idea of having a hectic start to each day put her off becoming a mother for a third time, reported
a publication. "The other day I was saying to Chris, the window's closing. Do we want to have another baby? I don't think we do, but let's just have the discussion,' and he said, “We can have another baby, but you realise you'll be doing the school run until you're 58.' I said, 'Let's just not! We're good!," Paltrow said.
— PTI
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Dream team
Hollywood superstar Tom Hanks says he had a wonderful time working with actress Sandra Bullock in the film Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. The 55-year-old said he met up with Bullock to discuss the script and bonded instantly.
"The very first thing we did in rehearsals was that Sandra, Thomas (Horn, who plays their son) and I made lunch, we got together and just made lunch, for the three of us. We made some spaghetti,” he said.
— PTI
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Being single, I think a relationship is very important and that too with the right person who makes you happy, no matter what you do in life. Trust me; we are not the baddies in the movie but do
justice. — Bipasha Basu
Suggestion on birthday: Donate sooji, sugar and ghee at some religious place.
In horticulture, we appreciate the trees for foliage and floral beauty and other aspects like its shade. And those who know about the landscape planning also know where to put the
plants as per their utilities. There are very few who know about the structural beauty of the plants. But then you need an eye for this.
Indian culture is nearly a million year old and it has much following in the western world, but sadly, our own youth is increasingly becoming disconnected with it.
Kalbeliya dancer Gulabo Sapera, who was supposed to walk the ramp Friday for designer Pallavi Jaipur at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week
(WIFW), opted out at the last moment after her son met with an accident.
