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Classical attachment
One of the biggest problems being faced in the Indian classical music scenario is the fact that it is not a teaching subject in schools, unlike abroad. "This explains why audiences abroad connect with Indian classical music better," shares Brij Narayan, an eminent sarod player. In Chandigarh for a performance organised by the Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth (SPIC MACAY) at the Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTECH), the sarod player speaks about his passion for the strings and all that he learnt under the aegis of his prominent father, sarangi player Pandit Ram Narayan.
Coming from a family of musicians, Pandit Brij Narayan's journey with stringed instruments began rather early. "According to my father, learning an instrument was essential; the instrument was not a priority," he says. It was the very distinguished eyes with which his father looked at the sarangi, which inspired Brij Narayan. "You have to understand that a sarangi player is like Bhisham Pitamah. A sarangi complements all different kinds of gharanas," he says. Brij Narayan is glad that his sister Aruna Narayan Kalle and son Harsh Narayan have been able to share his father's exceptional experience. Having performed together at several occasions, the son still gets intimidated alongside his father. "It's impossible for me to match up to him," he adds. Soon, an archived video of the father-son duo playing together will be released. Regarding his understanding of the limitless world of gharanas, the expert shares his opinion. "Learning the specifications of a gharana is very important in the world of music," he says. For him, the receptiveness to other peoples' work requires supreme talent and creative sensibilities. "One of the first qualities of a student is being aware," he adds. Having widely toured India and abroad, the sarod player is very specific about what raga to play at what time. Performing for 90 concepts in one tour is only the work of a genius. "The French Government invited me for a lecture demonstration and fortunately, several youngsters from the audience have become my students now," he smiles. For any artiste, there are only three-four memorable concerts. "There is a reason for that," he shares and takes a nostalgic journey back into time. "It was in Paris that I was invited to perform," he says. It was only at a very later stage that the player found out that the hall was a cathedral. "At 8:30, it was still sunny and I had prepared an evening raga for the performance," he recollects. It was after I played for one-and-a-half-hour that Brij Narayan looked back and asked if the concert was really over. "It was one of the rare moments when I was in a state of trance while playing," he says. Assessing the decreasing following of Indian classical music, Narayan feels it is due to government apathy. He suggests, "The good artistes, academic artistes and the best of both should be held together, and given the responsibility of promoting classical music." The experts today are few and the experience is going down, which makes it more crucial to judge the best. Here's hoping Bollywood music does not overtake the sanctity of taals and ragas! vasudha@tribunemail.com
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Modern puppet, seasoned hands
Here comes the sexy puppet, Trilotma, an apsara. She is not like her ancient counterpart, who only swore by the traditional ghagra choli made from Bandhej. Her previous generations have only entertained children. She works harder, pleases adults, which she couldn't have with her two feet height, so she grew up and is now life-sized. The voice behind the puppet shares details about her, "She is a seductive beauty and very flirtatious. Not like the one who only did long story-telling sessions." Brainchild of the internationally acclaimed puppeteer, Varun Narain, Trilotma is the modern version of puppet, "whose sole aim is to entertain people and it happens the best without a script. My every reaction in such performances is spontaneous," says Varun, who is in Chandigarh to perform The Decadent Apsara act in hotel Icon on Saturday.
Giving a new look to the age-old art form of India was much easier than Varun thought it would be. People readily accepted it, liked the puppets who took up the modern issues like sexuality and liberation. The former has always been a very integral subject of his works, be it the story of a eunuch and a Sufi singer or of a wannabe actress who wanted to marry President Bush. "People still have inhibitions to talk about as important a subject like sexual orientations. The medium of puppetry helps me express what I feel about it." And people listen to what he has to say, which he feels is because it's not a threatening medium of communication. "The message is sent across in a fun-filled way; in fact, people at the end of the acts volunteer to interact with the puppet." What began as a hobby for Varun soon became a profession after he got rave reviews from friends and family. "I started with thumb puppets, graduated to smaller ones and realised that the life-sized puppets would help me communicate better with audience." He adds that puppetry as an art form will never phase out, only the technique will change. "It was synchronous act just like story-telling; wherein a lot of people learnt the same thing at the same time. Just as story-telling, puppetry will never be a thing of past." Varun enjoys challenges of playing multiple puppet characters. His highest in solo act is 37. "It was a balled, the characters were fixed on stands and I managed the strings pretty well." One of his initial works was in collaboration with designer Tarun Tahiliani, for whom, he designed the puppet Basanti, which was made to walk on the ramp along with the male models. "That was one of the best experiences. The only glitch was that the male models hugged and kissed Basanti so much that its stand broke! I held the heavy puppet for the entire show then." But it won't be much of a deal in Chandigarh, as he's just playing two characters. And Apsara will be the centre of attraction. Don't forget to notice her huge eyes, designed by Varun, that make flirting so easy for her. And don't forget a pout like Angelina Jolie! Trilotma at her old tactics again! ashima@tribunemail.com
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Movie Meter
Cast: Pulkit Samrat and Amita Pathak Director: Supavitra Babul Rating: Barely average Pyar se baat karoge to Bittoo Boss sesky film lega. That's Bitto Boss (Pulkit Samrat) — unpretentious, yet with this in-your-face attitude, willing to be a small-time video film-maker but not a small human being. In times of glamour-oozing, big-budget multi-starrers shot in exotic locales, making a film based on an ubiquitous video film-maker with a newcomer requires a lot of gumption. And indeed Bittoo Boss, set in Punjab, could have been a brave film. Yet despite the hatke subject and the treatment shorn off glamour, the film gets lost in unnecessary twists and turns. It begins with promise, capturing the joie de vivre of the boisterous Punjabi weddings recorded by none else but Bittoo Boss, the much loved video film-maker. Actually, he is the monarch of all that he surveys, a king as far as making video films on marriages goes. Till the moment the eye of his camera, rather his own eye, rests on Mrinalini (Amita Pathak). And his simple innocent world where he is the undisputed master, an artist ahem kalakaar, who freezes happiness and smiles must change. Love expects him to rise in life and short-cut is the only way out. But a good man will always remain one. So even when he is on a sleazy mission he ends up mending relationships. To be fair - not a bad story line. And to be fair again - though the film peeps into the bedrooms of "married couples" and threatens to become sordid, it actually doesn't cross the line. Bittoo's small sermon on how physical relationship between members of the opposite sex is the most beautiful of all clarifies where the writer-director stand on the issue. Where the film, however, falters is its inability to capitalise on its USP-the realistic touch. The ordinariness of its characters and moments fail to transcend into anything extraordinary. Often simple becomes simplistic too. Sure enough, Pulkit Samrat can act. But those who have seen him in TV serials already know that. In an author backed role with his simpleton countenance and just the right degree of chutzpah, he does make for an endearing character. The same can't be said of his love interest, which is perhaps the weakest link in the film. Not only does it lack visible chemistry, but also romance that could warm the cockles of your heart. Unlike many a small budget films of the past who have proved to be winners, Bittoo Boss just about passes the test, even though it perks off in bits and parts. Pulkit, however, has the potential to run the long distance. Watch it for him or the different storyline, but be prepared for the tardy meandering.
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Be nutty for good health
Chomping on nuts leads to higher levels of good cholesterol and lower levels of C-reactive protein, which can trigger chronic diseases including heart disease, said a new study.
“One of the more interesting findings was the fact that tree nut consumers had lower body weight, as well as lower body mass index and waist circumference compared to nonconsumers,” said Carol O’Neil, professor at Louisiana State University Agricultural Centre, who led the study. —IANS
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High designs
It was an unbelievable break for the committed, young designer Swati Prabhakar, who started working as a costume designer for movies at the age of just 25 years. A graduate from INIFD, Ludhiana, Swati launched her journey as an assistant costume designer with the movie, Desi Munde. "It was an exciting and enriching experience to work with the likes of Raza Murad, Bunty Garewal, Gurleen Chopra and Parikshit Sahni," she says.
Swati worked as a trainee under some big names like Rohit Bal and Varun Bahl. After honing her skills, she got the opportunity to design for Avtar Gill, Kader Khan and TV Artiste Daksh Ajit Singh. To get into the line completely, Swati launched her own production house under the brand name of Khwateen Hazrat. "One has to study the screenplay and understand the characters before designing any costume," she says. Swati is presently designing under the banner of Batra productions for the movie Pinki Moge Wali and for Neeru Bajwa in Rana Jang Bahadur; Geeta Jaildar, KS Makhan, Upasna Singh, among others. Swati is equally comfortable designing for male and female characters. A bright future awaits this Ludhiana girl, who has started on the right note by realising her childhood dream of having her name in the cast of the movie as a costume designer!
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Song of love Mona Destiny has its own ways. The tunes composed by singer, composer Shankar Sahney during his university days in Chandigarh have finally seen the light of the day. And, none else but Asha Bhosle has sung them. With some 100 videos and 1,300 stage shows to his credit, Shankar came to Chandigarh on Friday to release his latest album Wari Jawan Ishqe. Immensely proud to have composed music for one of the most loved singers of the country, he shares, "Asha ji hardly sings anymore. It's my fortune that she agreed for this album." Wari Jawan Ishqe has ghazals and Sufi numbers sung by Asha and Shankar. This singer, who has often been referred as the King of Pop, is big time into composing music for Bollywood films. With already six films in his kitty, Friday saw the release of movie Ab Hoga Dharna Unlimited, a film, that has music by Shankar. Giving music in movies doesn't come easy, but, Shankar is confident. "Making music with Asha ji requires certain amount of knowledge. After working with her, any other task is a cakewalk." Being born into Kirana gharana has had some advantages, and Shankar is proud of that. "After all, it's the blessings of my parents, Punjabis throughout the globe and that of the almighty that I am able to reach where I am today." Busy composing music for films, he is also encashing on the latest trend of 'item' numbers. Do we really need them? "See, every one and every thing has its own place in the whole scheme. Like one needs breakfast in mornings, parties aren't complete without an item number today," says Shankar who is doing one in almost each of his films. Playing music on his guitar, composing new songs and travelling around the world keeps Shankar busy 365 days a year, and, he is glad for it. "This is what I had asked for," says Shankar who hopes to continue his musical journey… mona@tribunemail.com
A proud Punjabi
A decade down the lane, music scene has hanged a lot since Shankar Sahney started singing. He recalls his days in the Panjab University, "When doing chemical engineering at PU, none of the festivals had any Punjabi or Hindi singers. It was only English bands that would be invited." His first hit Machhli Hai Oye changed things and there has been no stopping. From Kudi Kurmari, Yaar Mangaya See Rabba Ro Ke to Glassy, he has been giving stage shows around the world. "Punjabi songs have really made its place in national and international scene and I am so proud of it," he says.
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Star track
“I never wanted the item song in the film but the producers (Ratan Jain of Venus) said we are a musical company and hence it came in the film. They went ahead with it and producers naturally are always right as they spend money all the time. I did not want to do it, so they shot it without me, but that is fine,” said Priyadarshan. “The song in Tezz is not needed. It is placed without any connection. But such things they do for promotions and that is what they mean. Tezz is not a musical film, it is an action film, so they feel item songs and all are important for promotion. I don’t know whether they are right or me,” he said. Mallika is seen grooving in a copper outfit to the item number sung by Sunidhi Chauhan, choreographed by Ganesh Acharya and composed by music duo Sajid-Wajid. Reportedly, three names had cropped for this song – Mallika Sherawat, Sameera Reddy and Jiah Khan. The film-maker insists he is not against the idea of having item numbers in a film but all he says is there must be reason for it to be part of the movie. “I am basically against item songs, which are put in the film without any reason. I have also shot item numbers, but only when it is needed. It should go with the film and it should not stand separately without any connection with the movie,” he said. With Tezz, Priyan has for first time dabbled in genre of action-thrillers. “I made a thriller because this is something I have never done before. And that is basically because I believe in all kind of cinema. I know I took some time to make a thriller but it never struck me. But I really wanted to do a thriller like Hollywood style,” the director said. — PTI
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Emraan Hashmi increases his fee
According to the grapevine, Emraan has quoted Rs 10 crore for all the new projects. They say that the three Khans - Shahrukh, Salman and Aamir - charge about Rs 27-28 crore per film, besides taking a share in the profits. And other A-listers like Hrithik Roshan and Ajay Devgn charge about Rs 20 crore a film while Ranbir Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor are alleged to charge around Rs 10 crore. Now Emraan may also join them. “I have increased my rate but I cannot tell you the exact figure. It is a harmless price; it is not a crazy price. I have worked in the office of a producer, so I know what happens when they (actors) charge too much. So I know what that price should be and it keeps me in the industry for a long haul,” Emraan said.
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Katrina’s new fan!
A source says, ‘Katrina and SRK grew fond of each other (in a friendly way only) while shooting for the film in London. SRK is protective of her and respects her and admires her rise to stardom. She has maintained a fine balance between SRK and Salman.’ The source continues, ‘It was cold in London so SRK sent his staff to get designer jackets for Katrina. That was very nice of him because Katrina has family in London and she is from there. She was looking for a gym bag and she didn’t even have to go for hunting for that because SRK granted her wish and gifted her one. Moreover, he asked his bodyguards to protect her when she was mobbed by fans on sets and even protected her himself at Mumbai airport when they came back from London. SRK only has good things to say about Katrina and likes the way she approaches a scene.’ This is not the first time SRK has been generous towards his friends. He gifted Farah Khan luxury cars post the success of Main Hoon Na and Om Shanti Om. He also gifted one to Arjun Rampal for Ra.One, he gifted Priyanka Chopra a guitar on her birthday last year, and Sanjay Dutt a bike for his cameo in
Ra.One.
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Priyanka is the only actress in Bollywood who has played twelve, seven, and three characters in her films. She was quite surprised that she had only three characters in Teri Meri Kahani. She loves meaty roles.
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Sonam Kapoor is going all out to promote her cousin Arjun Kapoor for Ishaqzaade while Priyanka Chopra is going all out to promote her cousin Parineeti Chopra for the same film. They do this mostly on Twitter. The film releases in May.
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Bappa Lahiri and his bride-to-be Taneesha Verma played Bappi Lahiri’s music, especially Ooh la la on the night of their sangeet ceremony. The guests included Bollywood actors and many music and TV people.
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Kareena is being paid Rs 8 crore plus a share in profits for Madhur Bhandarkar’s Heroine. She is also being paid Rs 5 crore to endorse a soft drink brand and is shooting a commercial for the same.
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Dia Mirza is half Bengali. She is doing a Bengali film called Paanch Adhyay and is dubbing the lines herself. She is playing an English school teacher in the film. This is her first Bengali film.
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Hrithik shows his dark side
Hrithik Roshan’s Krrish 3 has dark and violent shades. The movie is not “only for children.” A source says, “Like Peter Parker in Spiderman 3, Krrish will also have to face his own shadow. So he will battle external evil people and his own demons. The movie will be quite violent too. Kangna’s character is that of an alien and she is wicked instead of being angelic like Jadoo. So she has an army of strange animals who create havoc on the planet and Krrish has to fight them. He also has to fight Kangna’s character and most of the action scenes are between him and her. It is the first time that a female character has so many futuristic action scenes, at par with Hollywood. Kangna has lost weight to fit into the special costumes. She is happy now with this meaty role as she felt shortchanged during Kites.’ The source continues, “Rakesh and Hrithik Roshan have been working on this script for a long time. This film is mature and has blood and gore. There is no one for comic relief. Priyanka is the heroine and her role also has some surprises. Krrish has love scenes with both Priyanka and Kangna. So there is action, intimacy, violence, and darker emotions. Moreover, Vivek Oberoi’s character is superb as well and the Roshans are all praise for his work.’ Krrish 3 is most likely to release in 2013.
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The real challenger
The 27-year-old actress is playing the first superhero female character, Black Widow, in the film, reported a website. “I think just kind of going back day after day; knowing that you’re going to get the crap kicked out of you and do it willingly is sort of a challenge in itself, a mental challenge. But also, I have to say that every time you fail at a stunt, it hurts until you get it right,” she said. “My character is really the first female superhero. There’s a huge rich background for me to kind of pick from and play with and layer,” she added. |
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Drop down effect
Queen of Pop Madonna’s MDNA has seen the largest second-week percentage sales drop for a Number 1-debuting album since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales in 1991.
The album slid from No 1 to No 8 on the Billboard 200 with a 86.7 per cent sales decline falling from 359,000 to 48,000, a publication reported. The percentage dip surpassed the record set by pop star Lady Gaga’s Born This Way, when it fell 84.27 per cent in its second week on the chart. MDNA’s large fall was expected, as its debut was bolstered by sales gained from a concert ticket/album promotion as well as preorders from
iTunes. MDNA’s lead single ‘Give Me All Your Luvin’ (featuring Nicki Minaj & MIA) peaked at No 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. — PTI
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Exposed for good
Dam says she does not find anything shocking in the content or her role of a revenge seeking woman in the Vikram Bhatt film. “As an actor, I feel boldness is just a mindset, It’s not just about wearing less clothes and showing your bare back on-screen. I am not the first one to do that. There are many actresses who did it before. I don’t think it will typecast me because I can’t repeat myself. I am an actress and it’s my job to bring out something new every time. I don’t like my career to be monotonous. I am getting many offers of lead roles in Hindi films and they are completely different to what I have done in this film,” said Dam. The 32-year-old Bengali actress, who already has a body of work in Bengal after starting her career with Gautam Ghosh’s Kaalbela, says she decided to make her debut with Hate Story as it gave her enough scope to perform as a newcomer. “I hadn’t thought of entering Bollywood before. I was quite content with the kind of Bengali films I was doing in Tollywood. But I chose this because I can’t say no to Vikram Bhatt. He is sensible director and a big name in the industry. I like the storyline and my character (Kavya) because as a performer I had enough scope to perform. —PTI
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History’s hit series, Pawn Stars brings viewers inside the doors of a family-run pawnshop in Las Vegas. Three generations of men from the Harrison family—grandfather Richard, son Rick and grandson Corey jointly run the business, with clashing and camaraderie. This family lives and breathes the pawning business using their sharp-eyed skills to carefully assess the value of items their colourful customers bring in, objects ranging from the obscure to the truly historic.
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Grounded to reality
On being asked if she will take up a TV soap as an actress, she says, “I have already been offered many television roles and have declined them because I will prefer to act in films but then again who knows...if there is a different kind of a show that I end up liking I would love to do it on television too. But if I am offered Jhalak Dikla Ja, I would take it up instantly. Reality shows have a different charm all together”.
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Aamir unplugged
The promos of Aamir Khan’s TV show, Satyameva Jayate, have been shot at his home. He has used his cat, his study, his balcony to show the real self. The show will air in June and will highlight social issues in every episode. Aamir is trying a novel projection to the show to connect with masses.
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Shapath’s extra hours
Life Ok’s daily cop show Shapath will air for one hour on Saturdays and for two hours on Sundays from April 23. The channel plans to make the show bi-weekly and instead of stretching the story the show will have new story in every episode.
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Fighting a psycho...
Why took on this show? I always go with my instinct and the roles that I enjoy, which is why I chose this one. The role has many layers and fights for the needy. What about competition with Karanvir? He is popular as Viraj and I will enjoy working with him. First time I met Karanvir during the promos, and I am looking forward to some dramatic scenes in the show. Is the show inspired from Agnisakshi? Agnisakshi and Sleeping with the Enemy are good films. And if people feel the show is on the lines of these movies, then I disagree as the treatment of plots can make all the difference. What lesson people learnt from Jhanvi? Some people are rebellious who can stand for themselves, others can’t. Most people are scared to take a stand, so she has taken a stand by running away which is good. There is no right or wrong. Finally she has moved on. Yesterday she was docile and couldn’t speak up but today she has made an attempt. Is SB creating awareness or promoting violence? I feel awareness will be created. Normally we don’t realise that the problem is that viraj is ill. Where people think nothing can be done, the show says he needs help. Few people might not be thinking of their actions but after watching the show they might realise the wrong they are doing.
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From foes to friends
It is a well known fact that reality shows have their own share of stress and tension. The Sur Sangram on Star Plus’ Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar 2 is now in its third week with more passionate competition between the contestants but it seems that music is healing the rivalry between them. Recently, Aneek and Sharib, who miss no opportunity to take digs at each other during the show, joined hands professionally. The Jaipur duo, Sharib with his brother Toshi, is composing a 21-minute song for an upcoming film Mastan. It will be the first time in history of Indian film industry that a 21 minute song is made. Luckily Aneek got this opportunity from Sharib to record a portion of the song. However, is it possible to be competitive and still be friends?
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Drama in Kya Hua Tera Vaada
On the 35th anniversary of Pradeep’s parents, Suhasi wants Mona to remarry Pradeep. Anushka finds out and doesn’t like it. She calls Pradeep and asks him to meet her. A hit and miss is played out how Mona is about to enter a room and catch Pradeep and Anushka as Pradeep has left the main hall and come to meet her here. Anushka gets angry and storms out of there in a bad temper. Mona is unaware that Pradeep has gone following Anushka. An unfortunate event gets pradeep and Anushka into trouble and they both land up in the hospital…Will Mona find out about their affair?
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Mandira Bedi has yet again opted for Satya Paul saris. While hosting the reality show Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar 2, she will be seen in the sensual look as she is a big fan of Satya Paul saris. She will wear gowns and dresses too
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First-day-first show
Bittoo Boss (Pulkit Samrat) is a young charming, ingenious and a fun-filled wedding cameraman who takes pride in calling himself a 'sesky video shooter'. He is the star of all wedding celebrations of Anandpur Sahib, a small town in Punjab. Bittoo believes in spreading happiness through the beautiful moments he captures, moments which one can rewind and keep watching for years. He falls in love with an educated and strong-headed girl (Amita Pathak) who makes him realise the importance of financial stability and monetary gains in order to gain respect and recognition. Smitten in love and bitten by the one he loves, the smart and righteous cameraman is lured to take a shortcut in order to earn a quick buck and get his life back on track. What follows is a madcap ride.
Good start The movie has a good storyline and Pulkit Samrat and Amita Pathak have done a good job, so it does not feel that it is a debut cast. Although it is not a big budget movie but still it manages to entertain you. Ravi Verma, employee, ICICI bank Promising talent The music is quite apt for the situations and the setting of the movie. Pulkit has some promising talent but Amita seems to be an average actor. It is a one time watch. Nalini Prashar, law student, PU Average chemistry It is not a copy of Band Baaja Baraat. The dialogues are quite funny but the movie could have been better in terms of the chemistry shared by the on-screen couple. Anahaita Sharma, student, GGDSD College (As told to Sabia Talwar)
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The year ahead
If your birthday is April 14...
You’ll be able to make some progress, thanks to the help of an old friend or lover who respects you and puts you in a favourable light. You may stand to benefit through relationships. However, you may need to look out for arguments that may occur if you do not control your anger. Your charm and magnetism are at an all-time high. A once-damaged relationship can once again flourish; better wisdom directs you to construct an open doorway instead of a barricade. If you are still unable to fully open your arms, you can at least be more giving. Friends are a wonderful source of support and help ‘just when you need it’. Call upon your best buddies for ‘the helping hand’ you really need. Due to your partner’s forgetfulness, plans go up in smoke but you’ll take the blame. Certain important work will come to a halt due to poor financial position. Work tensions cloud your mind, leaving no time for family and friends. Stay away from gossip and rumours. Creative hobbies that will keep you relaxed. Investment needs to be made with a long-term perspective. Travel plans, if any, might get postponed due to last minute changes in your schedule. Financial losses seem likely if you invest on the words of others. Interference of a third person will create friction between you and your partner. Exercise patience while dealing with people at work. It is time to re-assess your strengths and future plans. Mood: Pumped-up big time. Compatible Signs: Virgo, Capricorn. Lucky Colours: Fire Brick, Dark Violet. Lucky Days: Sunday and Monday. Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 16 18, 22 Lucky Gem: Carnelian - The Healing Gemstone Lucky Flower: Carnation (Red) Suggestion on Birthday: Donate old shoes /chappals/sandals or any leather item to the needy.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Heartaches of the past are about to be forgotten as you get a new lease of life at work. Someone in a position of authority will annoy you. You can expect visitors or a communications from overseas. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power. Lucky colour: White. TAURUS: Close associates could turn to you for help and though this will add to your workload, helping them will increase your goodwill. You will be articulate, express your viewpoints with passion. GEMINI: A residence or office is redecorated to infuse fresh energy. There will be hectic activity at work and you may feel overwhelmed at the thought of finishing all your tasks and keeping your commitments. Tarot message: Take new challenges in your strides and deal with them sensibly. Lucky colour: Peach Lucky number: 51 CANCER: Be clear and precise in your interactions with colleagues. Beware of a conceited and ambitious person who takes advantage of your good will. LEO: Prioritise playtime and personal time. Planetary energies draw your attention to family and home base. Share market and speculations should be avoided today. Tarot message: Extend your circle of friends as people are your best bet against a hostile situation at work. Lucky colour: Crimson. VIRGO: Your life is busy and tiring. Go beyond your ego and ask for help, support and clarity when needed. You may be required to travel some distance in order to complete a pending matter. Tarot message: You concentrate on projects only with reliable outcome. LIBRA: You must have a thorough look before signing any contracts today. Unexpected distraction will delay your work. Try not to lose confidence. Love and romance in a relationship lead to promise and commitment. Tarot message: Win the war with honesty, not by distorting facts. Lucky colour: Pink. SCORPIO: Today will be a great day for sportspersons. Family gathering at your house will make the elders happy. You manage business affairs with skill and capability to achieve financial stability. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from young ones. Lucky colour: Orange. SAGITTARIUS: Singles just say ‘yes’ to friends for accompanying them for a function or a party. A journey for business or pilgrimage is on the cards. Trust your intuition for the right answer. Tarot message: Be practical and do not let trivial problems daunt you. CAPRICORN: You are on the edge of something grand. Even if you are a bit frightened at the magnitude of what’s ahead, keep wiggling your toes. On the home front there will be the impact of all this on your family life. Tarot message: You need to cultivate understanding . Lucky colour: Golden brown Lucky number: 33 AQUARIUS: Remember that a stagnant mind breeds monsters. Forget routine chores and duck out if you feel an order coming your way. Tarot message: Be grateful for the gains coming your way instead of longing for out of reach things or people. PISCES: Just try to have fun today. Remember, a healthy attitude will take you further than overstated confidence. Your feelings have deepened, and even if you are uncomfortable with your current process. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Silver grey Lucky number: 63
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Film: Bittoo Boss
Bollywood bombshell Mallika Sherawat’s latest item number Laila in Priyadarshan’s forthcoming action thriller, Tezz has not apparently gone down well with the director as he says it was not required and was added just for promotions.
After the huge success of his recent releases like The Dirty Picture and Once Upon A Time in Mumbai, actor Emraan Hashmi has increased his fee but claims that it is not a ‘crazy price’ and will not weigh down any of his films.
Katrina Kaif has found a fan, admirer, supporter, and friend in superstar Shah Rukh Khan. He has been gifting her designer jackets and stuff like that as they shoot for Yash Chopra’s movie. 
Hungry for more
Family ties
Ooh la la!
Highest paid Heroine
Root cause
Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson says that it was very tough to get used to the fighting scenes while filming for The Avengers.
Her bare back in Hate Story poster and the explicit trailer have already ensured Paoli Dam a sensational debut in Bollywood but the Bengali beauty is not perturbed about being typecast as a sex symbol in the industry.
Mauli Dave rose to fame by singing Mahiya Mahiya in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and then has been balancing being a singer and actress and was recently seen in Comedy Circus. She is five feet ten niches tall and was also a runner up in The Fear Factor 4. Because of her good looks she has been approached for TV soaps many a times but she has always declined the offers. 
To help Jhanvi, new character Raghav, played by handsome Harshad Chopra, has entered Saubhagyavati Bhava. He will tackle Jhanvi’s psychopathic husband Viraj.
Mandira’s looks
Sarah Michelle Gellar (April 14, 1977, New York City), is a well-known American actress. She is perhaps best known for her role in the acclaimed television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, for which she was nominated for the Golden Globe Award. Gellar has acted in many movies, including The Grudge, Scooby-Doo and The Return. She has also acted in several TV serials such as Robot Chicken, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and King of the Hill.