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Their world might be mute, but definitely not colourless. Enterprising units and courageous individuals are turning some dull lives into a mutual learning experience
Vivek is a smart, spirited young boy who goes about his work at F&B in Lemon Tree Hotels on any given day. He aspires to become a software engineer and is pretty hopeful of getting the job.
"I am very happy here. I enjoy my work; no one around is angry," he shares his experience in his big, childish writing (he cannot speak or hear). "Why are you here?" he promptly writes the question. Chetan Sood, who heads hospitality at the Lemon Tree Hotels and Shubhanshu Sharma, the general manger, explain — one through sign language, another by writing - why he has been asked to leave duty, carry a pen and paper, and be at Slounge with a stranger. Very happy with not only Vivek, but also Sanjay and Jaipal, who are members of the kitchen staff, and Ajay, who takes charge of the entire front area (all speech and hearing impaired); this hotel is just living their way, in their newly opened branch. Explains Shubhanshu, "It's a regular practice with Lemon Tree Hotels. They are very much part of us and all-inspiring. Many times they pick up message from the body language of guests, which our very 'normal' staff can't." This young bunch of four set an example for the rest of the staff with their hardwork and non-complaining nature. Though these people lack some of the gifts that most of us are blessed with, that doesn't mean they don't have a right to lead a regular life. Not only a particular hotel, but many other ventures are giving them their fair share under the sun; even glamour industries like hotels and salons. For Apeksha, who runs a salon in the same name from Sector 34, it has been a beautiful chance. "When I started my salon in 1994, a mother came with a tomboyish girl and asked me to employ her speech and hearing impaired daughter. I needed some help, so Rekha came into my life; a little effort from both sides and we could communicate well. She proved to be an excellent worker," says Apeksha Gill. Since then, Apeksha has been more than keen to train 'special' people for free. For Rachit Malhotra, director, Femina Plus, hearing and speech impaired have been part and parcel of everyday life. Pushpa has been with them for the last 14 years. "It's been a long mutual relationship. Pushpa and Navdeep may not be considered equal outside, but with us they are one of us," says Rachit. Pushpa and Navdeep even have their own clientele; people prefer them for they concentrate on the work better. "By the end of the day, we are humbled after seeing them work with such dignity; facing all odds with strength," he adds. Speech and hearing impaired people at parlours is a trend started pretty much by Salochana Ahuja, who started training them in the beauty business. "It all started with my daughter Anju; she could cope up well with the demands of the profession. So, I started doing the same with other girls who couldn't hear or speak," she shares with us. Three decades down the line, she has trained many boys and girls, who now have their own business (including Anju), which gives Salochana a lot of satisfaction. She has carried on the long tradition; Parminder works at her salon as much and as efficiently as others. "Ignored at home and by society, they find life in work. And, they teach me the value of patience, acceptance and fortitude each day," she says. mona@tribunemail.com
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Success mantra
Khudi ko kar buland itna ki har taqdir se pehle khuda bande se puche bata teri raza kya hai...is an oft-quoted, oft-listened line, but when it comes from Flying Sikh Milkha Singh, it makes true sense! From a young villager who would run miles without shoes on hot sand, cross two rivulets with books on his head to reach school to winning international competitions, his is a true success story.
From an army jawan to a national athlete, his journey has been remarkable. A simple, humble soul whose story of grit has inspired a Bollywood biopic, he is as proud of his athletics innings, as being the sports director of Punjab and father of Jeev Milkha Singh, who has earned his fair share of success in golf. Close to 80 and very fit, Milkha Singh spends time playing golf or promoting sports. Many awards have come his way, including the prestigious Padma Shri to the very recent Lifestyle Achievement Award. This true achiever shares his success mantras. Work hard for success Mine is the story from zero to hero; if I hadn't worked hard I wouldn't have been here. When I got into athletics, I would practice so hard that at times I would fall down, go unconscious or even spit blood. My compatriots would fear for my life, but if I wanted to reach my goal, I had to give my sweat and blood. Dedication to your dream I didn't know about sports till I joined the army. Within 15-20 days of joining, in a cross country run I came in the top 10. My compatriots in the barracks, a hearty mix of Bihari, Bengali, South-Indian and Punjabi people, lifted me on their shoulders. That inspired me and after that I tried 100 metres, 400 and more on the guidance of my coach and superiors. I put myself wholeheartedly into sports and till now my life is dedicated to it. Will-power is important
I was a refugee who had nothing to eat, army gave me a chance to dream and fulfill it. From knowing nothing about sports to leading in athletics, it's the sheer will-power that sustained me through the years. Its persistent efforts that pay; I would give 90 per cent to ones' efforts; the rest I agree is luck, which is not in our hands. Learning is important When I started competing at international events, I was way behind in terms of technique and training, but I had this burning desire to learn. During 1956 Olympic Games, I sat outside the room of the winner from the US till he showed up. Despite the language problem, I noted down the minutest detail of what he ate and how he trained. And, the results showed. Keep a clean record There is no shortcut to success, but the journey is long. It pains me no end to see youngsters taking to drugs. That brings shame to the family, the nation; and the medals are seized. Nothing is more important than honour for a sportsperson. mona@tribunemail.com
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Various cuts, styles and prints of Pakistani suits are a huge hit with the women folk in Ludhiana
As the popularity of Pakistani suits surges in Ludhiana, women are crowding various exhibitions that are showcasing the same. The cuts, styles, designs and prints of Pakistani suits have women in North India, especially Punjab, all excited. And we have it all here — signature Pakistani styles with long suits, izhars — the parallel lowers, excellent prints and vibrant colours from across the border!
"One reason for the popularity of Pakistani suits is that after the short style of salwar kameez last season, lengthy suits were expected to make a comeback and these have returned in their Pakistani avatar," says Kirat Jawanda, owner of Odhni boutique, Ludhiana. Kalis, izhars, prints and colours all combine to make these suits popular. "Kalidar suits, with slanting or straight kalis, in addition to lace borders, are quite popular these days. The suits are made of chic, soft and fine 'lawn' cotton fabric, which is very comfortable. Cascading style suits are also from across the border," she adds. Asif Mahmood, a noted designer from Pakistan, was present at the inauguration of an exhibition at the Nilibar, Mall Road, Ludhiana. Sonu Nilibar, owner of the showroom, says that there is something special about fashion from across the border. "They are way ahead in ethnic fashion; the finishing, cuts, embroidery and styles make them particularly classy," he says. Punjab, particularly the area around Lahore, was the hub of Punjabi culture and the legacy of fashion continues till date. Madhu Gupta, who has been wearing Pakistani suits for a long time, says "The border laces and izhars are becoming popular now, but I have been swearing by these designs for years, both in terms of comfort and style." "We know that Bollywood and Indian television is a big hit across the border. It's good that fashion from there is warming up our hearts here," said Aditi, a fashion enthusiast.
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Brand value
"There are a host of brands available in the market that are little known in this part of the world, but are on par with the best," opines Sana Rezwan, founder and CEO of Maison, a fashion concept store in Bengaluru. Her fashion exhibition — Trunk Show — recently concluded in Ludhiana.
"I was studying fashion in the UK, but on coming back I realised that there was very less variety of brands available here. We either had the basic brands or the very high-end expensive brands. The likes of Louis Vuitton have been a rage, but many of the brands from Paris, Milan, UK and Australia have not made the cut here. I try to bring, not very expensive brands to India, but those that are making quality products," she says. Featuring over 25 brands, Sana adds that many of them are rarely seen in India and some are exclusively available at Maison. The good part is that these are available at the same cost as that in the UK. "I deal with other expenses because I want to bring in more exposure for the women in India," she says. Some of the brands that she has brought to the country include Givenchy, Chole, Preen, Issa, Larven, Sass and Bile, Guiseepe Zanotti, Thakoon et al. About online shopping portals she says, "Even in the UK, high street fashion stores are losing out as online shopping is catching up; this is the future." She is also collaborating with some of the Indian designers for her store.
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Mugdha Godse's summer tips
Love your body! I always knew I had a good body, so I only had to maintain it. My confidence increased and I worked harder to maintain my body when I won the Miss Perfect Ten title at the Miss India Universe contest. I treat my body as an asset and being a model and actress, it is my biggest asset. Work it out I was a swimmer in school and I started going to the gym when I was in college. I have always been fitness focused. It's important to be mentally, physically and emotionally sound. Being happy and content is an essential part of feeling fit. You can swim, jog, run, play a sport, dance, work out in a gym, etc. There are so many options today. Eat right My protein intake is very high so that my carbohydrates are not converted to fat. I have eggs for breakfast, fish or chicken for lunch, soup and salad for dinner. I am not very fond of fruits but eat them because of the natural vitamins and sugars they supply. I also eat junk food when I feel like and supplement it with a protein bar.
Dancing queen
A fun-filled sawaari A song of Ferrari Ki Sawaari was launched at a suburban multiplex this week. Vidhu Vinod Chopra kept the media entertained with his no-holds-barred sense of humour and he revealed nuances about the making of the movie. The film releases on June 15
On-screen bond Kareena Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor are finally doing a film together in which they will play brother and sister. Zoya Akhtar has managed this casting coup for her next film which will revive the brother-sister bond. The film rolls at the end of this year.
Jolie wants wedding to reflect ethnic rituals
The 36-year-old actress is preparing to wed Pitt after seven years together, and wants the nuptials to reflect the different ways people celebrate marriage, in particular the home countries of their adopted children, reported a website. "She wants to incorporate different ethnic wedding traditions from around the world into one alternative ceremony and event," a source said.
Fight Club actor Pitt, 48, is also said to be keen on their wedding being more traditional, and held at their French chateau. "They both agree on the essentials, like the fact they want it to be a big celebration with their family and friends." — PTI
An eventful journey ...
A suitable boy The actor who plays Sharman Joshi's son in the movie is very special. We knew we wanted a boy who was 10 years old and loved playing cricket. We auditioned over 10,000 boys and Rohan Mapuskar found him in a mall with his mother. The mother took his number and got in touch with us for an audition. First the parents weren't allowing him to work in the movie but we convinced them. This boy is a gem and I feel that Boman and Sharman had to match his natural and innocent talent. We have not even showed him the film yet because we want to retain his innocence. I can say that he is a great actor. Lord, it was great! I can proudly say that Ferrari Ki Sawaari is our tribute to cricket and it is the first film from any country to be shot at the prestigious Lord's Cricket Ground in London. Initially we did not get permission but then we convinced them by sending them the script and the storyboard. So they initially agreed to give us a room but eventually gave us the full stadium to shoot in. It was incredible and glorious! Roping in Vidya There is a laavani song in the movie which Vidya Balan has done. I would not like to call it an item song because that means our film is weak and we are resorting to titillation to draw audiences to watch the movie. Ferrari Ki Sawaari is a wonderful movie and we have put a lot of thought and hard-work into it. There is a laavani song in the movie, at a politician's wedding. So we were looking for dancers from Kolhapur and Pune. The director thought of Vidya Balan and I messaged her. I thought she wouldn't do it. She replied saying it was her dream to do a laavani song and she would do it happily. So she rehearsed for about 15 days and we shot the song over five-six days. So, that is how Vidya Balan is in the movie.
Karan's line-up
Karan Johar and Rohit Shetty have come together to make a new film. "All of us at Dharma Productions are excited to have Rohit Shetty on board with us. We are really looking forward to this film!" Karan said. Karan has also teamed up with Ekta Kapoor to produce a love story this year.
On record
Shahid’s fan club
Bollyspice.Com held a contest for Eros International Media Ltd and Kunal Kohli Productions’ Teri Meri Kahaani where Shahid Kapoor fans were asked to choose their favourite character that Shahid plays in Teri Meri Kahaani. The film spans three decades from 1910 to 2012. Shahid plays three different characters. He is Javed in 1910, Govind in the 1960’s and Krish in 2012. It was Javed’s role that won his fans all over. The coolest thing was that fans from all over the world—Peru, Switzerland, India, England, Russia, US, Canada and many other countries. Shahid Online is going to send his pictures to the five winners.
Time for action
Teen pop star Justin Bieber wants to work in action films in Hollywood. The 18-year-old Boyfriend hit maker is seeking the help of actor-producer Mark Wahlberg and wants to follow the Fighter star's advice to make his transition into big screen action, reported a publication. "Justin really wants to break into movies but he wants to do a project of his own. He loves action movies and is a huge fan of Mark and sees him as very much the kind of actor he wants to be, especially as Mark started out in pop," a source said. "Unfortunately Justin has not quite got the physique for an action movie just yet. He is working out with a personal trainer but the fitter he gets the skinnier he ends up," he added. — PTI
Out-of-the-box
We are revamping all the numbers so they feel fresh and new. We are doing all new arrangements for the songs but not going too far away from the originals, because people go to see what they love so you don't want to change it too much," she said. The American Idol judge is getting support for the dance and song from her choreographer boyfriend Casper Smart. "He is the supervising choreographer and we are just working together to make the best show that we can make," she added. Joined by Iglesias, they will proceed on the tour on July 14 in Montreal and than travel to cities in North America till August. — PTI
Abhay to play a naxalite
Abhay loves getting under the skin of his unconventional roles. He is working hard on his character for the film to make it look authentic. This is also the first time that Abhay is working with director Jha and he is sure that the film will reveal a lot about Naxalites which is rampant in many parts of the country. The shooting of the film is currently on in Bhopal.
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Will he, won't he?
Love thy style Big CBS Love is all set to launch I Love Style, their new show which will talk about everything 'in style', starting from May 14. From products to luxury experiences, the show will talk about all the things desired by those who appreciate luxe like the latest trends in the international and Indian high fashion and luxury space. Miss India World 2011 Kanishtha Dhankar, Shibani Dandekar, Poonam Pandey and Shazahn Padamsee are approached to host the show.
Manasi's cultural streak
All about yoga Practicing yoga not only enhances stamina by increasing our body's capacity to handle prolonged physical but also mental or emotional strain. To improve stamina watch YogaCity on NDTV Good Times.
Soumya loves simplicity
Is Navya’s sense of style is similar to yours? Although our outfits may not be the same, I do identify with Navya’s simplicity. Navya wears salwar suits while I like wearing jeans and tops. Like Navya, I am a fan of accessories and like to experiment with them. What is the current popular trend among college-goers that you like and dislike? I love the stylish bags that I carry to college in the show. In fact, many people have asked me where I get them from. There is no particular trend that I dislike as most college students are aware of what suits them and don’t follow trends blindly. What would be your fashion and makeup advice for college going girls and boys? My advice would be to keep it simple as they are young and do not need to go overboard with their looks. Girls can experiment with jhumkas and bangles as I love doing that myself. For guys, a nice watch and good pair of shoes should be enough. How would you describe your personal style? As I said, it is T-shirt with jeans usually but for a party I like to wear a one-piece dress that is stylish yet not too revealing. Whom do you consider a style icon? Penelope Cruz is my style icon as she can carry off any look. She looks great in all her movies. How do you manage your hair after all the styling? Share some hair care tips? I love my long hair and wish that I could take better care of it. I keep telling mom that she should massage my head. I just wash my hair regularly and keep it clean. I don’t use any special products not even conditioner. What are your favourite accessories and why? I love all kinds of accessories like long chains with beads, earrings, both big and small ones, colourful bangles and many more. What are the five must-haves in your wardrobe and make-up kit? I carry a concealer, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick and blush on when it comes to make-up. As for my wardrobe, it’s jeans, T-shirt, dresses, accessories and shoes. I like flats because I am uncomfortable in heels.
NEW RELEASES
It is a love story set in the backdrop of a small town. The film has guns and violence but it is a complete entertainer. Ishaqzaade has foot-tapping item-number featuring Arjun Kapoor and Gauhar Khan. The promos are already on air and has been well received by youngsters. Dangerous Ishq The keenly-awaited film Dangerous Ishq marks Karisma Kapoor’s comeback in Bollywood. The promos, featuring romantic pair Karisma Kapoor and Rajneesh Duggal, has already created an interest among the viewers. Directed by Virkam Bhatt, Dangerous Ishhq is a suspense thriller based on past life regression. It is a second film in India to be shot in stereoscopic 3D using state of the art technology and a top class International technician team. The last film was Haunted directed by Vikram Bhatt. Dangerous Ishhq is a mystery love story which revolves around a super model and a son of big industrialist who vanishes under mysterious circumstances. The question remains how the super model goes to save her loved one. Jimmy Shergill, Divya Dutta, Gracy Singh Aarya Babbar, Ruslaan Mumtaz adds color to this thriller in which Samir Kochhar plays a Mughal from a different era in the film. Here is hoping the film does well. — Dharam Pal
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Astro turf
ARIES: Put more effort into completing unfinished work. An interest in alternative lifestyle and travel will give you the impetus to attend a alternative workshop in personal development. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Cherry red. Magic number: 43
TAURUS: A sudden improvement in your fortune is indicated. Emotionally you will be easily disturbed. This could be the
time for sweeping changes. This is also a positive time for business partnerships. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47
GEMINI: Try to reduce the amount of cash you spend on groceries. New attractions are likely to be serious. Do not hold back anything from your boss. Sportsmen, focus on exercise and diet. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash or impulsive. Lucky colour: Turquoise.
Magic number: 44 CANCER: Check all figures related to jointly held funds. Your friends and support network are all behind you at the moment. A new project can get the go-ahead and engage you. A female colleague could push your buttons. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future as you do so. Lucky colour: Fiery red. Magic number: 28
LEO: Take some time out for meditation to disengage from the thoughts that keep churning over the past. You will find that many of your negative emotions are coming from external sources. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Time will heal all pains and wounds. Lucky colour: Lotus pink. Magic number: 33 VIRGO: Get all of your affairs in better order. Problems can be resolved without any major stress from you. Take up studies in a subject that inspires your personal growth. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances.
Lucky colour: Peacock blue. Magic number: 36.
LIBRA: Good day for negotiating contracts. Seek publicity for business plans.
Stars favour import/ export. You are unlikely to get much chance to relax this evening. Women, beware of deception Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number:
54. SCORPIO: Your card The Magician castes smiles on health. Useful day for discussing long-term plans. A telephone call or a friend gives pleasure in the
evening. Your energy levels are at a peak. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 37 SAGITTARIUS: The Queen of Swords reveals that new love attractions are likely
to be serious. Life at home is easier. Businessmen, spend time with loved ones. Tarot message: Be positive; you can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56 CAPRICORN:A day of mixed luck. Your patient stand will begin paying dividends. Lovers, avoid meeting today. Today’s new moon is in solar ninth house. You have the ability to work hard and overcome the obstacles in your path. Tarot message: Don’t try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25 AQUARIUS: You may find the day quite tiring. Businessmen, avoid making any important business move. Your expectations
could lead you down the garden path. Try not to rely on anybody else to help you achieve your goals. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 28 PISCES: Today, no speculation please. A relative may behave in a rather unpredictable way. Early morning surprises can turn into afternoon achievements. Take a lunch break and forget everything you have to do. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 32
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The year ahead
If your birthday is May 11...
You might find it difficult to control your emotions. Your unusual behaviour will confuse people around you and leave you frustrated. Do not be erratic in your behaviour, especially with your spouse, otherwise it may mar the peace at home. Being revengeful towards your lover will not bring any result. Rather, you should keep a cool head and explain your true feelings to your lover. Co-workers and subordinates will bring moments of worry and stress. Tax and insurance matters will need some attention. It is a good idea to team up with others. Simply keep it in mind that the idea is not to use others, but to complement one another so that the entire group will reach new areas of success. Those born before 1980, will complete their projects and this will be appreciated. They will be able to climb the career ladder or have their long-awaited pay increase.Mood: Creative and ‘networking’ minded. Compatible signs: Cancer, Leo. Lucky colours: Orchid, olive green Lucky days: Thursday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 2, 13, 22, 32 Lucky gem: Garnet – the gemstone of success and love. Lucky flower: Snake head.
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Mugdha Godse has one of the best bodies in the business and she is also a very chilled-out person. The former model talks about fitness tips for the summer.
Asin is a trained bharatnatyam dancer and now she is learning jazz and Viennese waltz. She goes for her dance class at night after shooting and she enjoys every minute of it. Apparently she is very good at it.
Hollywood star Angelina Jolie wants to incorporate different ethnic traditions into her forthcoming wedding to actor Brad Pitt.
Ferrari ki Sawaari was in the making for nearly four years. Producer and co-writer Vidhu Vinod Chopra tells us what is special about the film
Dharma Productions that has mostly produced films with debutant directors is all set to make a film with an established director for the first time.
Priyanka Chopra is recording her music album in India too. She is open to inspiring ideas from her fans on Twitter and is writing her own songs. Her album should be released by the end of the year.
Shahid Kapoor’s fan following has increased with every film. But it was his role of Javed in his upcoming film Teri Meri Kahaani that got the most overwhelming response.
Singers Jennifer Lopez and Enrique Iglesias have a surprise planned for fans with a new song in the upcoming tour. Lopez, 42, will be introducing fresh changes in her popular songs, but insists on retaining their originality, reported a website. "We plan on doing some special things for the fans. We are actually working on this really good song, a new song right now.
Abhay Deol is one actor who isn’t afraid of experimenting with his roles. While he will be seen as the 40-year-old IAS officer in Shanghai, he will be playing a Naxalite in Prakash Jha’s Chakravyuh.
Actor Ravi Kissen, who will be seen in the upcoming movie Jeena Hai Toh Thok Daal, has been approached to be a part of the fifth season of the dance reality show, Jhalak Dhiklaa Jaa. He says that he will be a part of the show only if time permits.
Manasi Parekh will be awarded for her outstanding contribution to Gujarati culture along with Ismail Darbar, Mukesh Ambani and many other Gujarati singers and actors in Ahmedabad. She is getting the Gauravvanta Gujarati Awards for her contribution for taking Gujarati culture global.
Navya aka Soumya Seth is simple but stylish in her own way and her look is a hit with her college-going fans. We get Soumya to share her fashion mantras…
Ishaqzaade Award-winning writer of Band Baaza Baraat and award-winning director of Do Dooni Chaar, Habib Faisal has come up with a drama Ishaqzaade starring Boney Kapoor’s son Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra. This is Pareeniti Chopra’s second film after Ladies Vs Ricky Behl. Arjun makes his debut in Bollywood.