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Master stroke
'A master storyteller' is ourfirst impression of him. Basking in the success of Paan Singh Tomar, Sanjay Chauhan tells not only film stories with finesse but also how he landed in Mumbai, researched for the life of a dacoit, present scenario in Bollywood and more.
In Chandigarh on Saturday to be part of Chandigarh Literary Festival, Sanjay shares with us what's close to his heart, writing stories… "I didn't realise it till late that I wanted to be a script writer," says Sanjay. Originally from Bhopal, he studied and taught literature, spent a year collecting folktales in Madhya Pradesh, worked in media before he got to write 30- second-scripts for a commercial. A serial followed and then the move to Mumbai. Unlike many others, Sanjay didn't have his share of mega Mumbai struggle, "I received my first cheque on the seventh or eighth day of my reaching there." I Am Kalam got him international recognition, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, commercial success and his latest, Paan Singh Tomar, the much deserved laurels. Did you expect the feat? "Not really. Lagta tha izzat bach jayegi (thought honour would be saved)," he says. The script took two years of research and one year of writing. "When I started researching Google Baba was of no help, neither was Wiki Devi," says Sanjay who finding no records with sports authorities and the Army was left with no option but face the dacoits. Was it scary meeting them? "Jangal main to jo karta hai sher hi karta hai (in woods, lion rules)," he says. Even after meeting many people related to Paan Singh's life, his wife Indira Devi (Put 'Devi' for sure, he requests, lest she beats him or shoots him, he jokes), his son, daughters and more, writing didn't come easy. "I asked many a silly questions to all I met and got strange responses. 'How many rotis did he eat,' I asked his wife who answered Mujhe kya maloom (How would I know)?' Who would know then? "Mari saas, vo hi to khana parose thi. Main to ghoonghat liye baiti rahan (My mother-in-law. She would serve food, I would sit in veil). And, despite that two feet ghoonghat, they had six children," says Sanjay. While the script retained major events, some of episodes like relationship with the coach were 'correctly' fictionalised. In his attempt to retain the original flavour, Sanjay stuck to using Bundeli. "Youth will reject it, I was told, but, I had conviction that youth only will accept it." Post Paan Singh, Sanjay already has one script ready. Story of a 55-year-old theatre person, a slice of life comedy Hari Bhai Oscarwale, will take international artistes and will be shot largely in Los Angeles. He is also researching on a poet. "It will take me a few months. Only then, I will be able to ascertain if he makes for a film story." And, who says writing for films is an easy task? mona@tribunemail.com
Sanjay's take on story in cinema
There have been different phases. To begin with Guru Dutt's or Bimal Roy's films had strong scripts. Then came the era of Salim Javed when there was no exposure to the outside world. Someone somewhere saw the film and the idea was generated. The worst was what followed…exposure to foreign cinema with no legal protection. Even I was handed over a DVD to write dialogues. I was lucky to have escaped that. The success and failure of recent movies would force even the popular filmmakers to invest in good script. Good days for writers are ahead!
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Sweet sixteen
For Wamiqa Gabbi, a Mohali-based eighteen-year-old girl with light-coloured eyes and dreams to make it big in Bollywood, things have just started taking shape!
The recently released Bittoo Boss may not have done well on the box office, but Wamiqa, who played the sister (Nicky) to Amita Pathak in the movie, is satisfied with her role.
Wamiqa has been lucky enough to get roles in big banner movies like Jab We Met, Love Aaj Kal and Mausam and now is all
set for a big leap in Bollywood and Punjabi cinema. "I was into theatre and had done a few plays with Sudesh Sharma. Although, I haven't taken any professional training in acting, I always wanted to become an actor." Wamiqa feels that cameo roles are a learning experience. "I'm an observant
person, so even in movies where I had small roles I tried to pay attention to every detail." She is presently doing her BA first year from DAV College and thinks that luck favoured her but she also had to work really hard for it. "My journey started at the age of eight where I did Punjabi serial Saude Dillan De and later I was chosen among top five dancers for a dance competition judged by Aamir Khan." It was during the contest she was offered a role in Jab We Met. A kick start by luck and now she has done another Bollywood movie Sixteen directed by Raj Purohit and by the producers of Tanu Weds Manu. "I play the main lead in this movie Sixteen along with two other girls. The story revolves around the problems faced by the present-day teenagers." Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22 is yet another Punjabi comedy movie where Wamiqa plays the love interest of Honey Singh. The movie also stars Gippy Grewal and Mandy
Thakar.
Says Wamiqa, "I think there is no comparison between Bollywood and Punjabi movies as they have their own respective audiences." The young girl will not compromise with her studies and lets her team know her exam schedule in advance. What about television? "I always wanted to do movies and here I am. I do love to get myself clicked but even modelling did not strike me." That's for now about Wamiqa's Bolly tale but the future holds a lot more.
sabiatalwar@gmail.com
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Get glowing
Recently Aishwayra Rai Bachchan made her first public appearance, after she was blessed with a baby girl, at the L’Oreal Paris Femina Women’s Awards 2012. She was declared ‘Woman of Worth’ and was beautifully dressed in a printed salwar-suit with geometric patterns, which was created by the designer duo Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla in bright neon colours.
Elsewhere, Jennifer Lopez also sported a neon green-coloured Michael Kors dress bottomed with hot pink Casadie pumps during her appearance for a Brazilian talk show. Electric hues sure have been making news! Designer Nida Mahmood came up with a spring-summer collection that had amazingly bold prints with pastels and fluorescents at the Wills Lifestyle Fashion Week 2012. The colour palette revolved around mustards, navy lime yellow, black and neon shades. And it is time for the bright colours to take over this summer. Get ready to dress boldly! Archana Kocchar, a well-known fashion designer, used neon-coloured embroideries at the Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2012, where Bollywood actress Amrita Rao sported a white suit that had striking embroidery. Says Archana, “The concept that I used is called colour-blocking where you take a neutral colour as the base shade and bright neons are used as embroideries; so they stand out.” Even at the London Fashion Week 2012, many celebrities in the front row flashed smiles wearing neon-coloured lipsticks and dresses! “The best way to play with these shades is to use them in bits. This can be either wearing neon accessories or footwear with a plain white dress,” adds Archana. Of course, too much brightness may be jarring for the eyes! Earlier the concept of colour-blocking came in with bright colours, but now it is the era of neon shades. Says Nida Mahmood, “Nowadays, neon shades are making a fashion statement across the globe. These shades can definitely be teamed up with softer ones. For instance, a lime green kurta with a turquoise churidaar; so this means one can play around with neon shades.” It is not necessary to only wear neon-coloured clothes; one can carry a clutch or don bright footwear as well as waist belts. “One should keep in mind their body and skin type before sporting these colours. My collection at The WLFW 2012 had neon shades at its best, but those were for the ramp so women should think whether that look will suit them or not; they should not ape whatever they think is in fashion,” warns Nida. Nitasha Bhateja, Chandigarh-based designer who has done costumes for reality shows like Nach Baliye and Jhalak Dikhlaja and also designed for celebrities like Juhi Chawla, Kangna Ranaut, Genelia D’Souza and Arjun Rampal, feels summer is the best time to go bright. “Colours like florescent oranges, hot pinks and lime greens are in trend this season.” Nitasha herself is picking up neon shades for Anarkali suits with hand-printed dupattas. A thumbs-up for bold
colours! sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com
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Song of love
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 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. I’m lucky that she agreed for this album." Wari Jawan...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 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 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.
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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It’s happening
Frills and fabrics
Abhi Singh, a prominent name in the list of exhibitors, comes with a rich experience in fashion designing. A graduate of NIFT Delhi, the young designer had interned with Satya Paul before making his mark in the industry. “That was one experience which lives with me daily,” he says. In 2006, Abhi launched his dedicated diffusion label Studio11, which stands for Indian essence. Abhi’s USP has been his couture collections. “It was at the Lakme India Fashion Week in 2011, that Vinod Nair praised my work,”he says. Moving away from the traditional bridal colours, the designer focuses on English colours. “Apart from the colours, the fabrics are also getting softer to the skin,” he says, pointing at his fuchsia-coloured bridal attire adorned by a model. Working on muted embroideries and undertones of it, Abhi’s next bridal goes the Gandhigiri way. “It’s in khadi,” he discloses. Retaining the antiques
Jewels Emporium, a 170-year-old inheritor of gems and jewellery, comes with its Heirloom and the Red Carpet collections. “The latter deals only with uncut polki jewellery,” Thiara, from the stall, says. Doing the Arjoo collection in diamonds and a music collection, the brand is also into customisation of rare jewellery pieces. Stressing more on the design, the brand thrives on recreating the Rajwada look. Gold goes fashionable
LIFE, standing for Love Is Forever, is a third generation of diamond export house, which have recently launched a brand of its own. “We started operation in 1993 under the brand and manufacture from Mumbai and Italy,” Kunal Mehta, director of the brand shares with us. Carrying the same standards, the brand has been innovating in gold plating giving a dash of several colours in its pieces. Unconventional and high on quality, the pieces have been crafted with love.
vasudha@tribunemail.com
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In vogue
Chandigarh-based designer duo Vandana Singh and Nisha Singh , directors Aamara Creations Pvt Ltd swear by the uniqueness of this traditional garment and with their new summer collection, Aamara Creations come out with the latest designs and cuts in suits creating a fine style statement. Vandana Singh, who dishes out collection for celebrities in Punjab and Mumbai, has created various designs in suits starting from straight lengths, the evergreen anarkali suits, Patiala salwar kameez in formal and semi-formal deigns. “The best part about this garment is that a designer can bring in many variations to it while maintaining the style. For women who work in offices or handle household, straight suits with readymade Pakistani or semi-Pakistani salwar can look elegant.” Adds Nisha who likes to work on anarkali suits as it allows her to work more on the border using patti work, block print patterns and more, “White shade anarkali suits with pattern work look elegant.” In Aamara Creation, the designer duo has made sure they use light fabric and summery shades. Linen and different kinds of cotton is used best in shades of lemon, pink, light green, fuchsia. “Summer does not mean that you have to sport a simple look. Lighter fabric like cotton and linen can also create magic,” shares Vandana who suggests that any suit that is not overdone and worn with the right kind of jewellery looks elegant. The duo also provides right of silver base, kundan gold plated jewellery to go with the suits. This summer, a lot of inspiration comes from Pakistan. Pakistani salwar and suits are in demand, so Vandana and Nisha work out the best suited designs and infuse their creativity to style suits and kurtis.
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Wear your attitude
Your sense of style… I find those persons stylish who look comfortable in how they carry themselves and are feeling nice about it. This attitude imparts an aura of style. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… My mustard coloured heels! Brand crazy or street pick-ups? A smart and clever amalgamation of both for me. Your style icon would be… Jennifer Aniston has an amazing dressing sense. Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? It has to be Lady Gaga despite all the attention she grabs! Which look would your prefer – sporty, chic or glamorous? Chic for me One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… Try as I may I still cannot get used to coloured jeans. Your take on accessories I keep them to a minimum, but I am impressed by those who can accessorise heavily and be comfy about it. Given a chance you would like to be dressed by Sabyasachi, anytime! What gives you a high on the confidence level? When I am well prepared and sure of myself. (As told to Poonam Bindra)
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The foodies
From Chinese to Indian and continental, you have a variety to taste, but considering people’s need for more in less they too are offering the buffet bonanza; that too at a minimum price of Rs 500 plus taxes for dinner and Rs 400 plus taxes for lunch. They do have something for everyone! And by this we mean a complete wholesome meal that goes beyond just exotic names. From compound salads to seasonal vegetables, the buffet also considers the colour combination in presentation. Coming to the buffet, it starts with a soup and it is a vegetable one, but wait this is not the usual sweet corn or talumein variety. Here they offer soups that are either pulses (dal) based, seasonal vegetable or clear. We started with a protein rich lentil-based soup and believe us till the chef didn’t tell us, we had no way of knowing that it was an arhar dal soup. A perfect blend of flavour and spices! The menu of the buffet changes on the daily basis but it rests on three main cuisines—Indian, European and Oriental, so you have a dish to choose from each. Coming to starters, they are not included in the buffet but you can order it as there is a special menu for the entrée. Here you have dishes like murgh dhania korma, awadhi ghost, spinach and corn cannelloni et al to choose from. For the main course that is spread in a palatable manner considering the colour combination of vegetables and even salads, there are almost eight varieties of salads and they include compound, simple and creamy ones. What we suggest is a macaroni salad with olives and
jalepenos with a dash of hummus as an added flavour. In food, there are five chicken dishes that also include fish, eight vegetables, rice plus noodles and four desserts for the grand finale. Talking of quality, it has a typical Indian flavour to it and reminds us of a wedding feast. The masalas are well-done and gravies are just perfect to suit the Indian palate, but oriental is more Chinjabi and the European variety has the ever loved pasta and the baked vegetables with loads of cheese. So, you have to suit yourself in cuisines other than Indian, which is by far great.
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Master Chef
Fettuccine, which literally means little ribbons in Italian, is a type of pasta and are thick fat noodles. If we combine them with adequate veggies and cheese we will be adding nutritious value and taste. Quick to make, it can be had as a main dish too. Try this out...
Fettuccine
Ingredients
250 gm fettucine 250 gm fresh spinach 2 tbsp light soya sauce 1/2 tsp garlic paste 4 tbsp cheese 3 tbsp milk Salt, to taste Black pepper, to taste
Method
Boil fettuccine and drain excess water. Return it to the pan. In a separate pan, blanch the spinach. Drain excess water and chop it roughly. Return the spinach to the pan. Add soya sauce, garlic, cheese and milk. Bring it to boil and stir until smooth. Add salt and black pepper. When the sauce is ready pour it over the pasta. Mix well and serve.
(Dewan is a Ludhiana-based culinary expert)
As told to Poonam Bindra
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High Spirits
Ingredients
Garnish: Orange slice Instructions Pour ingredients over ice in a shaker. Shake well and strain into a tulip glass and garnish with a orange slice. Cocktail Trivia — Most vegetable, and virtually all fruit juices, contain alcohol.
(Mishra is a cocktail jockey)
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In the pipeline
Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif have not even completed their first film together. Yet, talks are already on about them doing another film together which is none other than Farah Khan’s Happy New Year.
Though it is not known when this film will go on floors, earlier there were stories about Anushka Sharma doing the film. Now, we get to hear that Katrina will play SRK’s leading lady. A source says, “SRK and Farah have patched up and this movie is very much on the cards. Farah and Katrina have been friends way before they started shooting Tees Maar Khan and Katrina played a big role in making that movie a hit. It seems Farah has always wanted to cast Katrina in this particular film which is finally happening. Katrina also wants Farah to direct her sister Isabel when she debuts here. Katrina will always say yes to Farah and she would love to work with SRK again as they have become good friends.” The source continues, “Recently, Katrina ensured that Farah Khan directed a commercial with her. She ensured that Farah was on board and Farah knows about Katrina’s influence in clinching this deal so they are mutually fond of each other.” We hope this trio works!
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Star power
Though everything is hush-hush, Ranveer Singh, Arjun Rampal, Dino Morea, Zayed Khan, Rahul Bose, Shabbir Ahluwalia and Harman Baweja are already on the list of members. Tennis players Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, cricketers Sreesanth and Mohammad Kaif, TV actor Karan Wahi and models Marc Robinson and Hrishant Goswami will also join the club which is called the All Stars Football Club. The intention behind this venture is noble: to raise funds for charity and to encourage football in India and make it more professional. Bunty Walia is thrilled with the venture and with the fact that Baichung Bhutia is coaching everyone. Our source says, “This club will play against corporates and NGOs and also within themselves. Bollywood stars, cricketers and sports personalities from other fields can be a heady mix. Every game will be a professional game of 90 minutes and all proceeds will go towards charitable causes and societies as mutually decided by team members.” We like this new development!
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Over to hockey
“It has been one of my dreams to do a role on Dhyan Chand. It seems I have grown too old to play this
role. But if I get a chance to do I will definitely play the role of Dhyan Chand in a film. Dhyan Chand’s story is amazing and he had made the country very proud,” Irrfan told reporters here, last evening at the DVD launch of his film, Paan Singh Tomar based on a true story of an athlete who became one of the most dreaded dacoits in Chambal valley. “He made a very big name for himself in the field of hockey and today see the condition of hockey. I think we should definitely make a film on Dhyan Chand,” the 49-year-old said. Recently Shahrukh Khan had revealed that he has been approached to play the role of the hockey player. Dhyan Chand, who is considered to be one of the greatest players of all time, is most remembered for his goal-scoring feats and for his three Olympic gold medals (1928, 1932, and 1936) in field hockey while India was dominant in the sport. Irrfan feels that today times are changing as audience wants to see films on original subjects. “Filmmakers have realised that audience is also hungry for original subjects, to see our own stories. They (audience) also want to see original cinema... films that have an identity. They want to see those films whose roots are based here. This section of audience has awakened the film industry and it is not just about sport films, people want to see good and original cinema,” he said. The 49-year-old would be seen next
in the second installment of Tigmanshu Dhulia’s hit film, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster. He also has a Hollywood film, The Amazing Spiderman where he essays a role of Dr Ratha, up for release on July 3.
— PTI
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Jolie-Pitt engaged to be married
Hollywood couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are engaged to be married after seven years of romance and six children.
Their engagement news first became public when Beverly Hills jeweller Robert Procop revealed that he helped Pitt, 48, design a custom diamond ring for Jolie, 36, a publication said. The ring is estimated to have cost USD 250,000.
Later, Pitt’s spokeswoman Cynthia Pett-Dante confirmed the news, saying, “Yes, it’s confirmed. It is a promise for the future and their kids are very happy. There’s no date set at this time. Brad designed the ring.” Procop said, “Brad had a specific vision for this ring, which he realised over a yearlong collaboration. He wanted every aspect of it to be perfect, so I was able to locate a diamond of the finest quality and cut it to an exact custom size and shape to suit Angelina’s hand.” The actress first flashed her ring at the Chinese Art collection at the LA County Museum earlier this month. Pitt and Jolie fell in love on the sets of Mr&Mrs Smith in 2004 while Pitt was still married to Jennifer Aniston. The couple, however, confirmed their romance in 2005 when they were spotted enjoying a three-day getaway in Kenya. By that time Pitt had separated from Aniston, his wife of five-years. It will be a third wedding for Jolie, who was previously married to Jonny Lee Miller and Billy Bob Thornton. Pitt and Jolie had declared that they would not marry until gay marriage was legalised in the US but later Pitt said they were reconsidering their decision because “...it seems to mean more and more to our kids.” They raise six children together. Maddox, 10, Pax, 8, Zahara, 7 are adopted while Shiloh, 5, and twins Knox-Vivienne, 3 are biological.
— PTI
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Justin is my protector: Jennifer Aniston
Jennifer Aniston says her boyfriend Justin Theroux is her protector and a good human being. The 43-year-old actress said she feels safe when she is with Theroux who has had a massively positive impact on her life, a magazine reported.
“He’s a protector, for sure. He’s just a good human being, and so funny,” she said. Aniston was last seen in comedy “Wanderlust” with Theroux, 40, and said she really enjoyed shooting the film in a secluded location. “Nobody bothered us and we were protected as a group. There were no paparazzi and no secret, tricky little cell phone pictures being taken. I realised how paranoid and guarded and not trusting I had become. “Not consciously so, but just this armor that I kind of have, protective armor. It’s not for my friends or family, but for being outside in the world, always on guard.”
— PTI
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Gym packed
Actress Anne Hathaway says she had to physically change her body shape to play Catwoman in The Dark Knight Rises.
The 29-year-old, who is the latest in a long line of stars including Eartha Kitt and Michelle Pfeiffer to play the formidable character, said she spent most of her time in the gym to get into shape, reported a website.
“I had to physically transform. Chris (Christopher Nolan) sat me down at the beginning and said, ‘Joseph Gordon-Levitt did all his own fighting in Inception. That one zero-gravity fight. He trained for two months.’ I basically left his office and went to the gym and just came out for five minutes,” Hathaway said. Christian Bale is reprising the role of Batman for the last time in the movie, in which Tom Hardy plays the antagonist.
— PTI
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Split personality
In a soon-to-be-aired chat show, Vindu in a candid conversation talks of his dream of wanting to play a villainous role. He talks of life with his two families and how while he loves his current wife Dina and their daughter, he also spends quality time with his first wife and kids.
— HRM
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Controversy thy name is…
Confirming the news, he said, “Now someone has gone to court for the copyright infringement of my film Fashion after 4 years and has demanded 2.5 crores.” In the plea, Seth has claimed that Madhur stole the idea for Fashion from her book El-Dorado, published 3 months prior to the release of the film on October 29, 2008. However, Madhur thinks Heroine will get sued too in future by people who want 15 seconds of fame. “I am sure they will be ready with their petition for my upcoming film Heroine also which is in the making right now for their 15 seconds of fame,” he added.
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SRK on stardom, family & more
I love meeting people because it is the people who have made me a star. I am so thankful for their love and support. I make films for them. I am touched by their support and love. I love my children and family and I work for them. Allah has been kind and given me everything so I pray for my children. Gratitude is the key for goodness in life. I am a very philosophical person and I believe in God. That is why I stay sane. I also believe in taking life lightly and going with the flow. It is important to have faith in yourself. That has to be firm as stardom can be fragile. Humour helps you get through difficult times. Stay true to your friends and family and do what you love. Stay true to yourself. Leave a legacy and have fun doing it. Do great deeds that will live after you.
— HRM
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A new life, a new way
Lost In Translation star Scarlett Johansson has opened up about her new boyfriend, ad director Nate Taylor, saying everything is finally going great.
The 27-year-old actress went through a tough phase in 2011 after her public divorce from actor Ryan Reynolds and when her nude photographs were leaked online by a hacker. But now she says thing are peaceful, reported a website.
"Everything's been really great right now. It's been a good time. I have had peace. Relative peace. I just want to work on things that are really hard, and when I am not working on things that are really hard, I want to hang out with people I like to be with, and that's it. I think it will be an interesting year," Johansson said. The actress also said that Taylor is adapting well to life in the public eye. "It must be very strange for him (Taylor). It is totally bizarre. It is an adjustment. It is got to be an adjustment for him way more than it was for me at nineteen. But he is really remarkably good about it," she said.
— PTI
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Fresh approach
The show revolves around
the backdrop of a joint family. Sonika is very excited about the new show, which
is already getting a good response from the small screen viewers. She shares
the experience... What was the reaction when you were told that you are Chandana
Raichand? I have been a big fan of Kavita Barjatya, the hands-on-producer of
this show. When I was told after the auditions that I will be playing Chandana
Raichand, I was just numb for a moment. It was the happiest day of my life. I
always had a dream to work under the Rajshree banner. What is the storyline of
the show? It is based at Indore. The tradition of ghar-jamai has been running
strong through the generations. The story is totally different and will
definitely connect all families. It gives out a social message in an
entertaining manner. How has it been shooting for Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka..... so
far ? Exciting and a big learning experience with senior stars like Sudha
Chandran and Jitender Trehan. The other co-stars and crew members have been
supportive. Working cohesively becomes very important when the team is large.
Is Sonika Handa anything like Chandana Raichand ? Yes, Chandana Raichand is
soft spoken, sensitive and quite sober in nature and so is Sonika Handa. With
many episodes already on air, how has the reaction been? The compliments have
started pouring in. But I know I have to work hard and prove myself as the best
actor. Does the length of the role matter to you at all? No, if you do good
work, you are noticed. The length does not matter. Future projects……? I
want to concentrate on Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka…... I have great expectations from
this show and will wait. — Dharam Pal
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Sizzling chemistry
Strong Bond: Karan Tacker and Krystal D’Souza
Heady times
Tied up: Deepika Singh
Discovery Science brings three adrenaline pumping programmes – Large Dangerous Rocket Ships, Flying Anvils and Killer Robots. The high-powered programmes combine various elements of science, which involve participants from all across the world in fierce competitions to emerge as an ultimate winner. The shows will take the viewers on a journey of unique competitions and to witness the inner workings of teams in extreme
programmes. — HRM
Discovery Science airs new shows
Priyal Gor aka Monia in Sony’s, Dekha Ek Khwaab, has decided not to take her 12th class exams. Standing strong on her decision, she justifies her stand and says, Dekha Ek Khwaab has been a rewarding and a fruitful experience for me. Personally, I give more importance to the show than anything else in my life”.
No more books: Priyal Gor
In Rajshri’s Yahaaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli a mysterious man will enter the show. He will have a tonsured head with a deep scar a la Ghajini. Abha aka Suhasi Goradia Dhami is scared that her gut feelings will come true.
Chill pill: A still from Yahan Main...
We have heard that Rani Mukerji is getting married soon to Aditya Chopra. The families have agreed. As soon as the Chopras wrap up their film and Rani wraps up her films, the planning or events will begin.
Wedding bells: Rani Mukerji
Making of a killer
Rakshanda Khan and Aamir Dalvi will be seen in Balaji’s Gumrah-The end of innocence on Channel V. They will feature in a story that talks about how broken home and divorced parents lead a teenager to become a killer.
Priyanka Chopra is bagging one big project after the other. The busy actress might be a part of both Telugu and Hindi versions of the new Zanjeer. If rumours are to be believed, she will be paid INR 6 crore for the Hindi film.
Twin treat: Priyanka Chopra
The promotional song for Vicky Donor was supposed to be shot over four days in a studio. Producer John Abraham worked quickly and wrapped the song in eighteen hours flat and made sure everyone was happy on the sets. The film releases next week.
On time: John Abraham
Shahid Kapoor is not doing the remake of Vettai but Imtiaz Ali’s wife Preeti is co-producing the remake of My Girlfriend is An Agent. They both are very fond of Shahid so he is doing that movie.
Role reversal: Shahid Kapoor
Near & dear
Hrithik Roshan has checked into a suburban five-star hotel next to Film City to save travelling time. His costumes and prosthetics take time so he has decided to live near the set.
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ASTRO TURF
ARIES: A remarkable indication for an easygoing day as compared to the previous ones and would help you to put all your energy into a dream. At home, you may be upset by the absence of a loved one. Tarot message: Draw on those inner energies and begin moving from thought to action. Lucky colour: Red. Lucky number: 33
TAURUS: For the last few days, you may have been anxious about matters relating to finance and investments. Professionally, there would be certain projects that would take up more time than usual. Tarot message: You have to push to succeed and your efforts will pay off. Lucky colour: Orange. Lucky number: 63 GEMINI: Keep the focus on your emotional health. Helping someone out and meditating would empower you. Socially, your life would be quite busy and many of you may meet interesting people. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains instead of throwing security to the winds. Lucky colour: Green. Lucky number: 28 CANCER: This would be a positive day for careers and all job-related activities. Businesspeople would also profit from new alliances and partnerships. They should read the fine print. Tarot message: Nobody has deliberately let you down, so keep going and don’t allow your confidence to be dented. Lucky colour: Yellow. Lucky number: 45 LEO: You would be rising upwards and enjoying the rewards of your efforts. Business people, too, would be able to expand their business and increase profits. There would be quite a bit of bonding with old and new friends. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Peach. Lucky number: 49 VIRGO: The day would be quite exciting and packed with action. Some of you may be taken up by new ideas regarding money and may want to spread them among others. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing. Lucky colour: Purple. Lucky number: 57
LIBRA: The day would start on a positive note and bring you much social appreciation and acclaim. At home, it is important that you set the right boundaries; else you may feel taken for granted. Tarot message: If you are tempted to travel overseas don’t waste money by financing the trip yourself. Lucky colour: White. Lucky number: 37 SCORPIO: Demands on your time and energy would be made by your partner or loved ones and that could tire you out. Friendships however, would be supportive but don’t trust new acquaintances all that quickly. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking the advice from someone else. Lucky colour: Blue. Lucky number: 51 SAGITTARIUS: Your new temperament would carry forward today as well and you would begin to see the changes that it brings. Professionally as well as personally, try not to be too aggressive or defensive. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Grey. Lucky number: 44 CAPRICORN: Certain changes in the professional setup, which would cause a mini crisis and you, would need to be as tactful and efficient as you possibly can. Do not let hurdles pull you down. Tarot message: Make a deciding choice and then live with the outcome of your decision. Lucky colour: Lemon. Lucky number: 31 AQUARIUS: Some of you may be feeling that the job that you are doing is not what you truly want in life, so instead of getting disappointed and quitting, find something that does interest you. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Bottle green. Lucky number: 21 PISCES: You would meet someone who would play a strong role in your life. Projects that had been delayed would start to move ahead. The efforts that you had put in at work would be recognised. Tarot message: Take limited risks and don’t jeopardise your long term capital. Lucky colour: Black. Lucky number: 57
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THE YEAR AHEAD
If your birthday is April 15...
You can expect shifts in your career, perhaps a shift in position and responsibility as well. In the first half of the year, you may get a big promotion, a career jump or even advancement in business. The second half of the year 2012 is more favourable and creative in respect to desired professional growth and success. You will find promising and profitable period around the middle of the year 2012. Health is likely to interfere with the day’s activities. Do not make rash decisions- especially when negotiating major financial deals. Your romantic relationship will suffer. If you run from a situation- it will follow you in the worst possible way. You are governed by planet Venus and number 6. Anything, which is beautiful, is a passion for you. Your intelligence and sharp memory will bring you success in professional pursuits. You will gain high position and earn lots of money too. Work pressure might bring some stress and tension. Unexpected rise in your expenses would disturb your peace of mind. Children can cause some disappointment at school due to their lack of interest in studies. Be original in your appearance and behaviour when you go out with your lover. Pressure at work and home might make you short-tempered. Communication will be your strong point
today. A familiar face on TV shows, Mandira Bedi (April 15, 1972, Mumbai) celebrates her birthday today. She got noticed with her role on small screen in Shanti. Passionate about live cricket she also compered Extra Innnings. Mandira married Bollywood Film Director, Raj Kaushal, quite dramatically on Valentine’s Day 1999. She has acted in her husband’s movies Shaadi Ka Ladoo and Dus Kahaniyan. She also appeared in Fame Gurukul, a sitcom Papa Ban Gaya Hero among others. Astrologically, she will be in news in the coming time.
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One concept in Indian society which gets bigger and better with each passing day is wedding. The glitz, glamour, exotic food and drink, there have been constant innovations to make weddings a gala affair. A little shift in the trend is, however, the season. Summer weddings are in now. Bringing together the best of the wedding industry, Rashmi Bindra’s basket of wedding delights comes to life at Hotel Taj. Jewellery and clothes are the same, but with a different twist.
Almost every second pretty woman from Bollywood ensures that she is seen in a traditional avatar once a while at a private function or an award ceremony.
So, quickly an appointment with a designer is fixed, a regular looking salwaar kameez is given a formal, semi-formal or traditional spin, matched with the right kind of jewellery and handed over
to the celebrity to flaunt it.
Everyone wants to be trendy and fashionable but very few can adopt style nonchalantly and those who can are
the ones who can catch attention. It takes an aesthetic sense and attitude to master the art.
Pleasant and confident, Chahat Sahni, a civil services aspirant, is all for suitability and it does work for her. We catch up with her—
Hotel Mountview is an old name in the hospitability sector of Chandigarh. With a chic makeover, it is one place where you can relate to so many things old and new. Though the hotel coffee shop is a well-known joint, their restaurant Rustles also cooks up a delectable meal and has a variety to offer.
The globalization phenomenon has touched our tastebuds too. We have become more adventurous and try out different cuisines. As Chinese food has become a household fare, now available on the rehr as well, and so has Italian food. We love experimenting with different types of pastas and pizzas.
This cocktail is said to have psychedelic effect, relaxing the mind off day to day
stress.
Both Abhishek Bachchan and Ranbir Kapoor come from illustrious Bollywood families. They have now collaborated to be a part of a football team and will be trained by Baichung Bhutia. The football club has many other stars as well.
After winning accolades for his role in Paan Singh Tomar Irrfan Khan is now keen to essay the role of Indian hockey genius Dhyan Chand in a biopic based on the legend’s life.
Vindu Dara Singh relied on his father’s name until a reality show catapulted him into limelight making him a household name. The show witnessed his short temperedness while taking digs at the other contestants. In stark contrast however, it also showed him often breaking down and crying on the show.
Controversies and Madhur Bhandarkar go hand in hand. The film-maker, who recently got relief from Supreme Court in rape case, has now been sued by actor-turned-author Seema Seth for plagiarising Fashion after 4 years and has sought compensation of Rs 2.5 crore.
Shah Rukh Khan has managed to remain grounded despite being such a big name in the industry. He is witty, successful and humble. So he is the perfect person to talk about managing stardom.
The cute and cheerful Punjabi kudi Sonika Handa from Lucknow, who was last seen
in Do Hanso Ka Joda, Maayke se bandhi dor and Stree – Teri Kahani, is back to
lights, camera and action for a character of Chandana Raichand in Rajshree
Productions unique love story Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka Aangan Hoga, starring Sudha
Chandran, Shreya Jha, Pankaj Tiwari and Rakesh Paul.
Everyone is aware about the steaming chemistry between the reel life couple Viren, Karan Tacker and Jeevika, Krystal D’Souza, from Star Plus’ Ek Hazaaron Main Meri Behna Hain. Where there is a huge fan following of girls for the charming actor Karan Tacker, the lead lady Kryastal is not far behind but now the fondness is not limited to just fans. The members of the Star Parivaar have also developed a huge liking for the duo’s chemistry. Recently while shooting for Star Parivaar Ka Tyohar, Karan Tackker and Krystal D’Souza became center of attraction. The hot couple, who claim to be just friends, were not ready to leave each other’s company during the shoot. The actors were so occupied in their conversation that they didn’t realise that they had completely forgotten that it was time for their performance. In fact, their fondness for each other was so evident that in spite of the Parivaar members pulling their leg, they continued to be together.
The members of the Star Parivaar have come together and have been having a great time. The Parivaar recently got together for celebrating the colourful festival of Baisakhi. To spice up and pep up the mood of celebrations the family members came together and played an interesting game. Jeevika (Krystle Dsouza) Komal (Parvati Seghal), Sandhya (Deepika Singh) and Priya (Riddhi Dogra) had to tie the traditional Pagari to the male members of the Parivaar. While the bahus struggled to try their hands at tying it was the coy Deepika Singh from Diya aur baati hum who won the competition. Sandhya finished tying the Pagari to Aditya (Raquesh Vashisth) and won herself a lot of cheers.
Adrenaline rush
Education takes backseat
Waiting for the mystery man
On the cards
Bigger and better
Quick fix!
Out of one, into another
You may end up completing a great deal of pending work. However, you may need to put a lid over your anger. Try to grab all the opportunities that come your way. Although it is good to be enthusiastic, you should be careful not to push yourself too far. If you stay in control, you can overcome all your fears. Mood :Given to financial fears and insecurities at times.Compatible signs: Scorpio, Pisces. Lucky colours: Greenish Yellow, Khaki. Lucky days: Monday and Tuesday. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 11, 21, 56. Lucky Gem: Diamond. Lucky Flower: Christmas
Rose.