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Decoding televille
Barter fifteen hours of each day for all the fame and lakh rupees a month! It does not end here. Also barter the little joys of life-having a cup of coffee with friends, chit-chatting with family or going for the first-day late night film show. Nothing comes without a price, especially if it’s about making it to the television show that airs on prime time!
Ankur Verma and Vidhi Parekh, the lead pair of Imagine TV’s Jamuna Paar, who were in Chandigarh on Friday to promote their show, realised the harsh facts of the television industry pretty soon. “Yet we consider ourselves very lucky. There are so many youngsters trying to get a break. Slogging hard is fine till the time we are getting attention,” says Ankur Verma, who is playing the character of Bijju in the soap. Vidhi too is gradually adjusting to the hectic lifestyle, but with only one concern, “You need to look your best on screen. Workout is a must as well, but can someone also gift us the 25th hour.” The show has been on air since the last one month and garnering decent TRPs. The chosen concept is pretty safe — rich girl and not-so-well-off boy meet each other accidently. Delhi provides the perfect backdrop. Ankur (Bijju) is a small-time businessman but very hardworking. Vidhi (Vidhi) is an aspiring designer who takes help from Ankur for the fabric of her creations. Ask them how difficult it is to get into the character and the confident duo echo, “Not much since the roles are closer to how we are off the screen.” “Playing a small-town boy trying to achieve something in a big town came very naturally to me,” adds Ankur, who comes from Rohtak . And they haven’t ignored the most vital fact that the life of a TV actor is as long as the show. “Which is why we don’t mind working hard. We don’t want it to be just a passing phase in life, but want to carry it forward for at least five years,” says Vidhi, who belongs to Pune. The show, has been produced under Rajan Shahi’s banner, who introduced popular faces like Sara Khan and Mona Singh to the television industry. “We are desperate to repeat the success stories of big actors. Rajan is known for exploring talent. Life doesn’t offer second chances; we want to make the most of it now.” ashima@tribunemail.com
Know your stars
Vidhi Malhotra: Real name Vidhi Parekh Before launch: She studied engineering and wanted to do an MBA Brijesh Kumar Kateva aka Bijju: Real name Ankur Verma Before launch: He was a model and has walked the ramp for Blenders Pride fashion shows. He was also seen in Jazzy B’s music videos.
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Custodian of a heritage
“The West must not be derided. They have given us fantastic things when it comes to the outward domain but when it comes to the inner domain, it’s our heritage that has all the answers,” says Kiran Seth, the man behind the movement called SPIC MACAY. For this IITian and IIT professor, discovering heritage happened by a fluke. But he doesn’t want to leave it to that, “Whatever is valuable in the world, we must preserve for our children. Knowing one’s tradition is every child’s birthright,” he says. In Chandigarh, Kiran Seth shares with us excerpts from the journey called SPIC MACAY. The beginning
“As IIT (Kharagpur) student, we would listen to Western music and play guitar. It was one visionary staff member who sowed the seed that has bloomed into a tree now. He would organise a classical music night, but of course we weren’t interested. Sometimes we would play cards in the last row or even sleep, but, it was while studying in Columbia University that I saw a small notice about a Dhrupad recital. Of course, I knew nothing about what Dhrupad is, but went for the recital anyway. The seed took the form of a small plant then. Since then there has been no looking back.” Organic process
SPIC MACAY today has presence in 350 cities across India and abroad, where not only Indian classical arts are promoted but also folk, literature, crafts, cinema and yoga. Kiran Seth ascribes this growth to the volunteers, a mix of young and old whom he refers to as the banks and the river. “People like Dr Shakuntala Lavasa are the banks and young people like Nalin are the river; while banks give direction, the river provides much-needed current.” By 2020, SPIC MACAY aims to have its presence felt in every school and college. They have got a huge response from the government. “The Rajasthan government as well as the government of Kerala have approached us for all their schools and are even paying us for this. We cannot ask for more,” says Seth. He is giving his best shot, whatever is the outcome, he is okay with it, “If what we are trying is worth it, it will survive the odds, if not it will die a natural death.” mona@tribunemail.com
Guru mantra
In the attempt to ape the West, we are ignoring the strengths of our own culture. Kiran Seth, founder SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth) compares the situation to the one that figures in the movie The Deep Blue Sea (2011). We are also on the path where we are left with no option but to choose between the devil and the deep blue sea. Four things that can save us from the situation are — a) Subtle approach, which has been increasingly been missing from our lives b) Ability to look into the abstract C) Inspiration in the world of information overload d)The mystical part of the life. “All four of these were present sometime back, but are found no more, says Kiran Seth. And, SPIC MACAY is striving to promote the same.
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Eye of a devout
We all knew or rather accepted it as truth when some wise guy told us that eyes were the window to the soul. But can eyes be a parameter for measuring an artist’s growth? In Ram Kishore Yadav’s case, it is.
Yadav, who came to the city to exhibit his Devotion series at the Fine Arts Gallery in Panjab University, has adopted a pair of closed eyes to show the level of maturity he has achieved during the past decade, ever since he embraced ‘devotion’ as a theme for his artistic journey. “The theme has been the same and so have been the elements; elements that I associate with spirituality. But the eyes which used to be open in my earlier works are now closed because it is a sign of higher attainment; the level of meditation where one can detach himself or herself from the worldly goals and look inwards for fulfillment. However, it is not just his thought process that has gone under a change; his technique of executing his paintings too shows signs of maturity. No, we are not talking about his stylized forms which he achieves by zooming-in on human figures, broadening the eyes and stretching their lips for the impression of joy and satisfaction, but his special effect, which he brings with jute cloth. The patiently embossed dots, which imparts a depth to his forms, is evident in almost all his recent frames. A graduate from the College of Art Delhi, Yadav, who served as an art executive in DAVP, Government of India, took premature retirement to devote himself completely to art. His career graph shows two distinct phases—Indian astrology in metal work and oil medium that started from 1981 and lasted till 1995, followed by the devotion series, which is evolving with every passing day. “I believe devotion and love reveal the beauty of human nature and provide stability to our lives and thought,” he says. And Yadav does not mind being labelled as a devotional artist. For him devotion is not just a spiritual term, but is something that is required even for a simple process like painting. “If you are not devoted to your art and expect too much out of your labour, the very purpose of creating a painting is defeated. One has to have a little yogic mentality to derive ananda from such a creative process.” And his philosophy of ananda does reach out to the viewers—the aesthetically sound compositions, soothing colour palate and the devotional aura—there are plenty to take home. parbina@tribunemail.com
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An inspired voice
From the science class in school to the inspirational quotes of Richard Bach or Brian Wiess, change has always been defined as the rule of life. Kuljeet Mondair hasn’t read any of the ‘how to live better life’ writers, but she understood pretty early that change in herself, change in the thought process and change in the mindset was what would define the rest of her journey.
She smiles, adjusts her red phulkari and with the confidence that comes from learning shares her little story. “I haven’t brought about any drastic change, I have just changed myself,” she gives a little insight before we move ahead. Kuljeet Mondair, who has been awarded by Progressive Inter-culture Service Society of British Columbia as a Woman of Distinction for her outstanding achievements as a broadcaster from World Punjabi Forum Canada, doesn’t come with an earth-shaking story. “People the world over talk about equality for women, women power, but do we ever realise the element of power comes within us? I could also relate with the problem of women who come abroad. She might be coming to a nicely placed family, but women definitely face a lot of adjustment problems,” she says, quickly telling us incidents where she protected women against violence and helped them settle in this new country. Breaking social barriers, doings something different is quite an ‘adventurous’ thing with people, but swim against the tide and see what you get. “I don’t know many philosophies; I didn’t have any inspirations around other than the blessings of my family. I had a mouth-piece wherein I could voice my opinion and get people to listen to it,” adds the first Indo-Canadian woman who started open link talk shows on radio in Canada. “There wasn’t any male doing a show like this till I stepped in giving people a platform to express their thoughts,” says Kuljeet Mondair who misses her days in Panjab University, Chandigarh. “The city has grown in leaps and bounds; I see and hear of a lot of women entrepreneurs, which is a good thing for any progressive society.” She laughs as she puts across something that she has heard often. “I would want to see every woman fly in her own sky. This doesn’t mean I would ask them to leave homes and not care about anything,” she adds with a confident smile that definitely doesn’t come from stories in books or fairy tales! jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Foreign STEPS
With Bollywood having penetrated in markets across the globe, our industry is increasingly seeing the influx of artistes from different countries.
Maryam Zakaria, born in Iran and brought up in Sweden, is one of them. Currently basking in the attention she received doing a mujra with Kareena Kapoor in the movie Agent Vinod, she is inching closer to her dream! Dancing to the tunes of choreographer for Dil Mera Muft Ka, Maryam has been a happy actor. Her dance background gave her a base to try out a mujra. Says Maryam, who runs a Bollywood dance school in Sweden, “I have always been fascinated by the beautiful dances, sets and actors of the Bollywood movies. My parents tell me that I have been fond of films ever since I was two.” “Though there is a full-fledged industry out there in Sweden, it was in Hindi films that I found my calling,” she says. Now two films old, this actor is working hard on her Hindi, “I can understand the language well, but need to work a lot on my accent.” She is settling in Mumbai well, and despite her regard and respect for India, Maryam finds it odd to live a life without system. “I love India. But having been brought up in a system where everything works and equality rules, whatever be the economic or social status of a person, sometimes I am surprised. Meanwhile, she is taking the challenges head on and aspires to be the leading star of the industry. mona@tribunemail.com
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Simple living, great going!
Sanjeev Rattan, a solitary filmmaker was happily hiking around in the hills around his hometown Khaniara, Dharamshala, when he was inundated with phone calls. Occasion — his two films Panchakki and Dille Ch Vasaya Koi bagged the 59th National Film Awards! While Panchakki was awarded for Best Short Fiction and Best Music Direction, Dille Ch Vasya Koi got Rajat Kamal for the Best Dogri (Himachali) Film.
In Chandigarh recently, on his way to Mumbai to join his thrilled team, Sanjeev is as calm as ever (something to do with his hill upbringing?). "The awards confirm the faith that we are on the right path," he says philosophically. Who does he credit his success to? "First and foremost, it's God. If one has passion and patience, the almighty does reward it in due course," says Sanjeev, who has been in the field for last 15 years. Panchakki and Dille Ch Vasaya Koi are his first two independent films. "When I got the first call about the award, I thanked God. But when I got another call that my second film has won too, I thought someone is playing a prank," he says, but it was a call by his mentor Vidhu Vinod Chopra so he had no choice but to believe it. The awards get him recognition. "If I get more funding, I will put it in my passion," says Sanjeev. However, the paucity of resources has never deterred this film maker, "I really value the advice by Vidhu Ji. He says — 'one improvises when one faces challenges'. We recorded the chorus song on a mobile phone for our first Dogri (Himachali) film." With happy faces at both the places, an elated team at Mumbai and thrilled actors back home (he took raw villagers for his cast and worked very hard on them), Sanjeev is happy charting his path with new vigour. Buzz is that his film might make it to Cannes! Amen.
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More than skin deep
Luxury also means a deep pocket and one look at Prive, Sector 9, Chandigarh and you know what we are talking about. This luxury salon thrives on the uniqueness of serving only the hi-end clientele. The products offered at this outlet, Keratase and Kera Skin by L’Oreal are the outcome of advanced research in hair and skin care.
Says Mumbai-based, Binaifer Pardiawala, head of key accounts, professional products division fro L’Oreal, India, “Our hair goes through a lot of wear and tear because of chemical treatments or natural conditions. Kerestase acts as a rejuvenating agent for damaged hair.” Benaifer did a professional course in hair dressing from London and stared her career as a hair stylist in 1990 and then joined L’Oreal. Her experience speaks when she explains the hair and skin care processes, “Kerestase, which is a hair and scalp treatment, is a process divided into four steps, which are, diagnosis where a camera is used to take pictures of the scalp and hair, and then comes bathing which happens in the salon; treatment happens with home care.” All this is a gradual process and not a magic trick that happens at once. Talking of the Kera Skin, Beniafer says, “This has steps like cleansing, diagnosing the problem area, massaging, toning, application of a mask and sun protection.” This treatment balances the oil and water content of the skin. There is more in store for the feet relaxation and rejuvenation through Pedi spa. Pedi spa is the combination of a pedicure and spa with foot reflexology treatment. Says Supriya, operations manager, “There are three types of Pedi Spa—botanical, wine and pepper mint with their own respective benefits.” The client is prepared through counselling and knowing the process of the spa. “All products for cleansing and massaging the feet are prepared in-house and are totally natural like coffee which helps in breaking down of the celluloids. Rose is a good toner and honey removes dryness. During the wine Pedi spa, wine is poured on the feet which is good for dryness and has polishing elements,” adds Supriya. So, now is the time to indulge in luxury at its
best. sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com
Summer check
Keeps your scalp clean by shampooing your hair daily. Go in for vibrant hair colours. Global hair colouring with streaks enhances the hair style. As for hair cuts, layers will rule with flicks and bangs which suite your face cut. Henna dries up your hair as it saps out its moisture. Colouring your hair does not make them grey.
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Master Chef
Orange, kinnow, mausambi, I love citrus in any avatar. It doesn’t bother me if they are not sweet enough. If they are bordering on tart, then out comes my can of chaat-masaala! Juicy, flavourful, fragrant and healthy, that are ultimate heaven! The almighty sculpted them in such a manner that we don’t need knives, peelers, even plates to savour them. You could skip the rinsing, ease off the skin, and pop the juicy crescents straight into your gob! Many a dish can be prepared from oranges but a gorgeous upside down cake wins hands down! Not only does it look grand, it even tastes scrumptious with the sharp hint of orange peel. Slices of this cake make a great dessert when served with ice-cream or warm custard.
Method Slice 4 of the oranges into ¼ inch thick sections. Cook them with ¼ water and ¼ cup sugar, using a wide but shallow pan. Shake around to dissolve the sugar without breaking up the discs. Cook for 6-8 minutes till the pieces are somewhat
caramelised. Grease a cake tin and arrange the cooled slices at the bottom in a neat pattern. Sieve together the maida and the baking powder. Grate 2 tbsp of rind of the 5 orange and combine with the butter, 1 cup sugar and Pour in the residual juice from the slicing activity, if any. Set the oven on pre-heat at 350 degrees F. Add the eggs, one at a time while continuing to whisk. Introduce the dry ingredients into the batter in 4 batches, mixing till smooth. Do not over beat. Spoon the batter over the arranged slices, taking care that you don’t disturb their configuration! Bake in the oven until the top is well browned and cake begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. This could take 40-45 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand about 10 minutes before turning out. (Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)
4 -5 oranges or kinnows ¼ cup water ¼ cup sugar 2 tbsp grated orange peel ¾ cup butter 1 cup sugar 2 cups maida 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla 2 poons baking powder
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HEART talk I am a 21-year-old girl and I live at my aunt's place in Banur. I am tired of her constant nagging. She keeps a check on what I eat or do. How do I approach her? Sabita, Chandigarh Your aunt is being protective about you, so don't think too much. If you are too troubled, talk to her and tell her how you feel. She would definitely listen to you. Don't take the matter too far. I am a 24-year-old student. My father has taken away my credit cards. I don't want to live with him anymore. What should I do? Dinesh, Ambala This happens to every youngster. It happened to me as well. Our parents want us to realise the value of money and life. It would be a stupidity to leave home on such a frivolous pretext. (Rana is a Bollywood actor and television host) |
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Of twists and turns
Rajshri Productions’ Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli on Zee TV, will soon change. Once Abha (Suhasi Dhami) proves herself before the family, the whole family will be killed in a car crash. Karan (Karan V Grover) will end up with amnesia, while Abha will shown with a new character played by Iqbal Khan. With this new change in story, the drama should be exciting.
Saathiya team goes for a ride
It’s time again for most awaited Star Plus annual awards STAR Parivar Awards 2012.The award ceremony recently held in Mumbai and it was full of enthusiasm, performances, emotions and entertainment. The Saathiya couples Gopi (Jiaa Manek), Ahem (Mohammad Nazim), Rashi (Rucha Hasabnis) and Jigar (Vishal Singh) was spotted at red carpet riding a red Ferrari car. It was definitely a rock and roll time for Gopi and Rashi as they were seen enjoying. Watch the action on March 24.
A year wiser
Piyush Sahdev, who is seen as a cop in Life OK’s Shapath, celebrated his birthday recently. He had a house party with his family and friends. But the most important person was his girlfriend actress Akangsha Rawat who gifted him a collage of their pictures.
Anger patterns
Actress Payal Rohatgi is angry about reports that there has been an arrest warrant issued against her. She claims no such thing has happened and such reports are tarnishing her image. Apparently, Munish Kotwani lodged a complaint against her for defamation.
Vote for Rakhi Sawant!
When it comes to making headlines, you can’t beat Rakhi Sawant. This time, she paid a visit to the Lok Sabha on the first day of the Budget Session. We spoke to Rakhi to make known her agenda… I was on a mission. I went there to see the door through which I am going to officially enter one day. After all, I am going to be a Member of Parliament. But I can’t divulge any details now. I will sure let media know in future. I had gone there as a common man, to see how our parliamentarians do their job and behave themselves. I hope the aam-janta will vote for me when I contest elections. What are yours political plans?
I am all for women and making kitchen utility items affordable so people in our country won’t die of hungers. I even requested many senior members of the Lok Sabha to request aid for woman and common man of India. In our country, poor people are getting poorer and rich are getting richer. Were politicians seduced by your beauty?
I didn’t go there to seduce politicians. I told you my agenda for going there. In fact, I wore the proper dress code for the parliament. Like a young neta, I wore kurta and jeans. Who is your ideal?
Sonia Gandhi is my ideal. I love her. No matter what people but I feel the woman who lost her husband at the altar of his duty deserves to rule the nation. But what about Rahul Gandhi for who expressed your love publicly? This isn’t the time to talk about love. My feelings for him will never change. I have got really deep feelings for him.
Missing the fun
Pooja Sharma aka Sanchi in Playtime Creation’s show Ruk Jana Nahi couldn’t play Holi to her heart’s content. But what she missed the most wasn’t a break on the festival but bhang pakodas. Her sister too landed in town to celebrate the festival which sure cheered her up. Comeback time
The latest daily-soap to draw take inspirations from Bollywood is producer Jai Mehta’s next, which will feature beautiful actress Sukirti Khandpal. The actress rose to stardom as Siddheshwari Singh in Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo. She was last seen in Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani on Star One, which ended in December last year. Now, Sukirti is all set to make her comeback. Our source informs, “Sukirti will play a NRI in the show inspired by Katrina Kaif’s character in Namastey London. The title of the show hasn’t been decided yet. It is expected to go on floors in the end of April and will air by May end.” The film was a superhit and the producer is expecting the show to strike gold too.
Popular mum-in-law
Nilu Vaghela, who plays Bhabho in Diya aur Baati Hum, is very happy these days and her reason
Cat fights
After the love making scene of Ram (Ram Kapoor) and Priya (Sakshi Tanwar) and animosity between Ayesha (Chahat Khanna) and Natasha (Sumona Chakravarti), there are more fireworks in store. At the Holi party, Ayesha and Natasha will get into a yet another fight and it will lead to big drama.
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Dream comes true!
Mallika is doing an item number for the movie Tezz and one of the reasons for it is Ajay Devgn
One of Mallika Sherawat’s dreams turned true. The bombshell recently shot for the item number Laila for Tezz with Ajay Devgn. Our source informs, “She had her eyes only for Devgn on the sets. In fact, before the shoot, she walked up to Ajay, introduced herself and chitchatted with him for quite some time.” Mallika, on the other hand, says, “Ajay is such a calm, cool and friendly person to work with. I admired him in Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai and Singham. In fact, he is one of the reasons I did the item number. He is one of my favourite actors.” We wonder what Mallika’s other co-stars, Anil Kapoor and Zayed Khan (who were also present in the song) thought about being unobserved so unashamedly?
Dare bare...
Rihanna, who recently hit the headlines for wearing a see-through black top without an innerwear, insists that she doesn’t dress daringly to shock people. The 24-year-old singer maintains that she just wears what she feels comfortable in, even if it leaves little to the imagination. “Dressing is always so spontaneous, it always depends on the mood, occasion, your little daring touch that I like to put on my outfit every time,” she said in an interview. “I don’t do things for the response or for the controversy. I just live my life. “The clothes that I like and the clothes that I’m attracted to sometimes are sheer, sometimes are bold, sometimes they’re very daring. “I’m okay with buying a sheer shirt, because if I bought it sheer, that means I was okay with you seeing through it. Someone else might wear it with a bra, someone else might wear it with a tank top, someone might wear it with none, and I happen to fall in that category,” she explained. —ANI
Deepika in a new role
Deepika Padukone plays a photographer in Cocktail. Her character goes to London to train in the skill. Saif Ali Khan and Diana Penty are her co-stars. The film releases after summer.
No qualms
Emraan Hashmi is really well-behaved. During shooting, he didn’t have a vanity van. He didn’t throw a tantrum. His make-up was done in his vehicle and he also used his car to rest and take breaks.
Food mania
Neetu Chandra loves cooking and eating. She is good at making Thai, Chinese, and Indian food and her friends love what she makes. She cooks more vegetarian food than non-vegetarian.
Anurag admires Aamir for his marketing skills
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap wants to hire perfectionist Aamir Khan to market his movies. Raising a point on marketing films in the right way in India and abroad, at a session in the ongoing FICCI Frames event here, Anurag said he was impressed by the way the 47-year-old actor-producer promotes his movies. “We haven’t seen anyone market a film like Aamir Khan does. I wish I could hire Aamir Khan to market my films. Even if he gives guidance it is enough for me,” Kashyap said. “Aamir Khan does it all alone he knows how and where to market a film,” he said. Both Anurag and Aamir Khan are producers and they have churned out hit movies like Udaan, Shaitan, That Girl in Yellow Boots, Laagan, Taare Zameen Par and Delhi Belly respectively. Would he like to co-produce films with Aamir? Anurag said, “This alone cannot be my decision, if he decides then fine.” — PTI
Shahid’s gorgeous new girl
It is the season of the Romance Angels! After Neil and Sonal getting together, Ranveer’s triangle continuing with Anushka and Sonakshi, and Genelia and Riteish getting married, Nargis Fakhri is reportedly dating Shahid Kapoor. Shahid has dated a bevy of beauties such as Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra and reportedly Amrita Rao, Vidya Balan, Bipasha Basu and Anushka Sharma. Nargis has been amorously linked with Ranbir Kapoor and Shayan Munshi. And now the two are said to be going steady with each other. A source says, ‘Shahid and Nargis were hanging out because they are doing a movie with Siddharth Anand. She went for his birthday party in Goa in late February and the two got close and talking. They really like each other’s company. Nargis is gorgeous, lively, and quite a child woman. Shahid is chivalrous and charming. They both are foodies and into fitness and dancing. They have a lot in common. They are spiritually inclined. They are keeping their budding romance low key but that is hard to do in Bollywood when both are sought-after stars!’ Nargis has shouted about her single status from the rooftops! Shahid hasn’t admitted to any romance since Kareena many years ago. It is unlikely that the two will come clean about their relationship. We wish them all the best as they look good together and seem compatible.
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Movie Meter Movie: This Means War Cast: Chris Pine, Tom Hardy and Reese Witherspoon Direction: McG Rating: Just about average
Best friends falling for the same woman…not exactly a new plot, It’s a theme that has been done to death in innumerable Hindi films. Often with brilliant results as in the classic Sangam and many times disastrously as in so many “also ran” clones. But when the same theme appears in a Hollywood flick one would expect the treatment to be different. And it sure is. What with open sexual talk and the two suitors being no less than CIA agents (Chris Pine and Tom Hardy), the premise seems exciting enough. Yet the movie that sails in three different tracks romance, comedy and action doesn’t impress in any. Romance anyway goes out of the window. For, there is hardly anything romantic in a woman (Lauren played by Reese Witherspoon) entering into two relationships with her eyes wide open. Yes, she has been instigated by a friend who has put her on a dating site. Indeed, she has no intentions of two timing either. Recovering from a relationship gone sour this lonely heart is giving the two men in her life an equal chance. That those two men don’t want to give each other a fair chance and use all of their CIA skills and resources to jeopardise each other’s romantic plans is, however, not only another matter but also what justifies the title. They are at war. Their snooping on each other right up to the bedroom has its fun moments, but certainly not that would make it a laugh riot. Why she finally chooses one over the other too remains a mystery. For, apparently she seems to like them equally, except for one dead giveaway, which we won’t reveal (in case you decide to watch the film). But otherwise except for some wit and humour (below the belt kind too) and stray one liners “don’t choose the better man, choose the one that makes you better” there are hardly any moments of reflection. The climax and anticlimax are rather contrived so much like the Bollywood formula. More than the romantic angle, it’s the bond between the two friends that has more feelings. Despite the “feel good” factor, the film fails to touch your heart. But all the same doesn’t jar your nerves either. Watch it if you are a diehard Hollywood buff or like the two men in the film you go weak in the knees at the sight of Reese Witherspoon. By the way the two male leads look good. Otherwise, as with other Hollywood films this one too is watchable for the simple fact that it clocks less than two hours and despite an action packed climax doesn’t drag at any point.
First-day-first show
This Means War Two of the world’s best CIA operatives (Chris Pine and Tom Hardy), who also used to be best friends, go head-to-head when they both fall for the same woman (Reese Witherspoon). Rather than working together to take down entire enemy nations like they once did, they’re now using their incomparable skills and top-of-the-line equipment to eliminate each other. Predictable plan Although the movie has an appealing star cast, the story is quite predictable. It is a confused mixture of a spy movie and a rom-com which puzzles the viewer about the plot. —Nitin Sharma, Bank employee Usual stuff It is definitely a treat for the fans of Reese Witherspoon but her performance is just average; Tom Hardy plays a character which is different from his usual intelligent roles and Chris Pine plays a role similar to what he did in Star Trek. — Arushi Thakkar, BA student, GGDSD College Not worth it It is a slick, fun and breezy action comedy. The comedy part is good, but the spy part is sad. The performances of the cast could have been better so it is just a timepass. — Lalit Saxena, law student, PU (As told to Sabia Talwar)
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The year ahead
If your birthday is March 17...
In order to perceive the hidden factors and account for the most intricate angles, you’ll have to start by admitting what you don’t know. Number eight and Saturn design you as an ambitious, energetic, confident sober and a simple person. You possess sharp memory and are always interested in improving your knowledge base. To avoid horrid surprises, be organised, punctual, studious, reserved in business and respect rules. Those born in the last decade should put aside stubbornness and listen to the opinions of others before rejecting them. Otherwise, they will regret their actions. This year a promotion or an increase in responsibility will bring you reasons to celebrate. Housewives will have to cope with regular arrival of guests. Travelling to a distant place for spiritual gains cannot be ruled out. Do not be fooled by false compliments. Beware of people trying to take advantage of your nature. Stand up for your rights at any cost! Remember that talk is cheap and that deeds are more important than words. Some people who you consider as your friends may be of little help, because they cannot see things the same way that you do. You gain good ground. New projects will add a touch of class to your profile. You will accomplish a lot this year. You will find new business associations to fulfill your needs and of course for a better price and easy terms too. You may restrain yourself from investing in a very lucrative property deal. Friends are a real joy and treasure and there are multiple situations for that to be showcased. Invitations, making new friends through existing friends and being included in family events of friends are likely. Be more optimistic and pay more attention to treatments if you suffer from any illness. Mood: Seeking progress. Compatible signs: Pisces and Aries. Lucky colours: Light coral and khaki. Lucky days: Thursday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 15. 25. Lucky gem: Diamonds and Emeralds. Lucky flower: Blue pansy. Suggestions on birthday: Donate urad daal or mustard oil.
Sharman Joshi (17 March, 1979) shares his birthday with you. He is a film and theatre actor. In 3 Idiots, he played a major role with Aamir Khan and Madhavan. His role in Allah Ke Banday was applauded. He has worked on various stage productions in English, Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati. Rang De Basanti brought him laurels, for his comic and emotional role. No one can forget his Golmaal shots. In 2007, he appeared in the multi-starrer film-Life in a Metro, which was also a success.
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Astro turf
ARIES: You will have better chances of getting through odd jobs connected with home and family if you promote team work. New ideas provide a scope for expansion. A Libran friend might let you down. Tarot message: Lack of confidence or lack of caution can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 45
TAURUS:
The Hanged Man helps you to move into new and better situation. You struggle to keep your temper in control. This is an appropriate time to invest in a car. Take your partner to the movies this afternoon. Tarot message: Focus on your dream project. Lucky
colour: White. GEMINI: This is a fine day to plan for future expansions. Relaxing is just the antidote for the trials of the day. Someone you are attracted to at work feels the same way. You could be in danger of suffering digestive problems. Tarot message: Take limited risks while speculating. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 55 CANCER: Today is open for excitement. Conquer your fear and take a chance to really live. There could be delays with certain business ventures. You could be the centre of attention in a party. Tarot message: Outline your goals ahead of time then make a plan for achieving them. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28 LEO: The Queen of Pentacles blesses you with the finest of subtle qualities today. Children will be a source of joy and their progress will make you proud. Work out in the privacy of your own home. Tarot message: Don’t build into accepting situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Yellow. VIRGO: You will be in a relaxed mood today. If you feel the need to make any personal decisions, go with your gut. Romance will lead to happy moments and singles can meet someone special. Tarot message: A bird in hand is worth more than two in the bush. LIBRA: The wisdom of The Hermit inspires you to make new beginnings and move in a creative direction. Opportunities for new sources of income are likely. A casual conversation can lead to romantic times. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 46 SCORPIO: The Magician conjures up some travel and business opportunities. Business problems need your attention today. You will be hearing from someone very special. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confusing yourself. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 54 SAGITTARIUS: You are articulate and others are ready to lap up what you are offering. By evening you can be in an irritable mood and will be prone to losing your temper with friends and may resent taking their advice. Tarot message: Avoid frictions with business partners. Lucky
colour: Brown. CAPRICORN: It looks like a very busy day ahead but partying could be catching up with you. An important task to maintain a sound relationship seems difficult. Your chances of success are better today than ever before. Tarot message: Be firm and stand your ground. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 59 AQUARIUS:
The Prince of Wands rides in his flaming chariot of gold to trigger dynamic changes at work. Don’t depend on others to do your important work. You should take some advice from those you consider important. Tarot message: Remember never to fall for rash promises. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52 PISCES: Today mixing with friends could be a tricky business. Don’t get involved in petty arguments. Plan for a vacation. This can be the beginning of a new chapter in your life. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains instead of throwing security to the winds. Lucky
colour: Grey. |
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