|
|
|
|
|
Big screen calling
Someone has taken the lead in saying goodbye to television for a while. Vishal Karwal, the winner of MTV’s reality show Roadies and the face of popular TV series Dwarkadheesh, comes to Chandigarh to promote his debut Punjabi film Appan Pher Milange. So, all talks of working in TV have taken a back seat as he shares, "I want to concentrate on Punjabi films as an actor. I don't think there is any full-fledged Punjabi actor except Jimmy Sheirgill; there are only singers."
Vishal has enjoyed a good innings on television, but it's time he expands his creativity. "Television has made me a household name and I have enjoyed working in it, but as an actor I feel I should stretch my horizon. Punjabi films is an excellent medium of doing so, the way it's reach is growing it should be giving competition to Bollywood very soon," adds Vishal, who will work in another Punjabi film pretty soon. Talking about the difference between small and big screen, Vishal is quick to add, "Small screen has become big. Actors are doing a lot of TV shows. All the same, films have their own way of functioning; they have their own creative element." jasmine@tribunemail.com
|
|
Child-like passion
Whether it is the corporate world or the service industry, the economic sector is brimming with job opportunities today. There are only a few, apart from the teaching fraternity, who can resist the lure of the hi-flying corporate world and work with the younger lot. For some, it’s just pure passion of working with children and for some it is just introducing fun in their lives. We chat up with a few who are shaping up lives of children rather than finding satisfaction behind balance sheets and account statements. When was the last time you gave your child the freedom to do what he wanted to do? From acing in school grades to giving an outstanding performance in the aptitude tests, a child is being pushed to the limit. “I have seen children, and I am talking of students in Class I to Class X, just sitting and completing their home work during rehearsals,” shares Zubin Mehta, director of the Wings Theatre Academy. Running a successful theatre academy in St Kabir Public School since the last three months, Zubin is excited about a play which will be staged soon. With pressure of academics ruining children’s creativity today, Zubin hopes to introduce enough cathartic experience in a child’s schedule. “Theatre gives the opportunity for a child to express themselves freely and being part of that mechanism is a great feeling,” he shares. Being a catalyst in making life a bit more fun for the younger generation, Zubin is constantly upbeat about being able to help children in whichever way he can. Having witnessed a dyslexic child overcome her lack of confidence while on stage, the director is certain that it will make a significant difference in academics as well. For him theatre is also about mind and body activities and can help overcome learning disabilities. Without an iota of doubt, music tends to play an integral role in a child’s grooming. Looking at this, two musicians Paulus Paul and Ondry Paul have released a CD on children’s songs. The duo, also running a rock band, could have chosen to cut an album but opted for children’s music. “Coming from a family of musicians, it’s been part of our growing up years,” Paulus shares. For the duo, watching a three-year-old, who still has to get a grip on the language, can easily break into a song and that is what inspired them. “The sheer joy of watching kids having fun with music motivates us to work with children,” he adds, strumming his guitar. Although the band performs at parties, weddings and get-togethers, their true calling is working with kids. “Just looking at how they interpret music and learn from words is so much fun,” Paulus shares. To make music interesting, the duo introduced hip-hop in the CD. Sometimes, the reason could be borne out o compulsion, but the passion remains unadulterated. Manjit Singh had to take up tennis coaching due to financial constraints; today he moves around his travel plans to ensure that his students have good exposure in tennis. “Coaching children is not only a bit tough but also a major challenge,” he says. For this young coach, life is no more about going for international tournaments but more about providing the right facilities to his students and making them eligible for the same. Teaching children as young as four, he tackles each child individually. “Some of them can be very naughty but you have to hold your ground and mould your teaching technique accordingly,” he adds. It’s time to leave behind the junior senior fundamentals and work for the shining future of India. vasudha@tribunemail.com
|
||||
|
Fashion’s new destination
Aza inaugurated its first store in Ludhiana at the MBD Neopolis Mall on Friday evening. The multi-designer boutique features creations by India’s most talented designers. The fashion show organised on the occasion had elegant collections by designers such as Neeta Lulla, Nishka Lulla and Rocky S, who were also present on the occasion. Among the models were Candice Pinto, Anchal Kumar, Dipti Gujral and Niketan Madhok.
Designer labels available at the store include Anamika Khanna, Gaurav Gupta, Jaya Rathore, Kiran Uttam Ghosh, Manish Malhotra, Mayank Anand Shraddha Nigam, Neeta Lulla, Pallavi Mohan, Rocky S, Rohit Gandhi, Rahul Khanna, Sabyasachi and Varun Bahl. Cycle of fashion
After the show, Neeta Lulla said fashion is cyclical. “As of now, the 50's fashion is in and next year, 60's trends are expected to be back in vogue. For aspiring designers to do well in the industry, knowledge of business and fashion infrastructure is crucial, apart from the commitment in the constantly changing industry,” she says. As for the trends, she says long kurtas will be in. The designer has already done four Hollywood movies, including ‘Bride and prejudice, Mistress of spices, One night with the king and Provoked’. — Neeta Lulla Classy & chic
Opine the designer duo, Shradhha Nigam and Mayank Anand, who will soon tie the knot, “We essentially use traditional Indian fabrics and give them a contemporary and global touch. We try to keep it regular, classy and dignified. Comfort is our priority and for this reason, we don't use polyester.” The actor-turned-designers say as of now they are too busy with business to work with any TV shows. “Working as a team is challenging, but it has its own strengths,” they echo. — Shradhha Nigam and Mayank Anand Bright note
“Clothes are increasingly being designed according to the characters in Bollywood movies. As for the upcoming trends, I feel bright colours with little embroidery will definitely be in vogue,” says designer Rocky S. Without naming the movies, he says he is working in different projects, including movies starring Ameesha Patel and Katrina Kaif. — Rocky S
Bips delights
"I can understand Punjabi and would love to do a Punjabi character in movies, if I get an offer," says Bipasha Basu, who was recently seen in Jodi Breakers. After the fashion show looking gorgeous in a white and black Neeta Lulla creation, she opines that the fashion store is a great concept. Talking about reality shows, she says Aamir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate is very good and more actors should come forward to do issue-based reality shows. “I will also like to do some reality show, such as something on fitness, in the future. i haven’t come across anything interesting yet, but the minute I get such a show I will definitely take it up ,” she says. It is Bipasha’s second visit to Ludhiana; she was here last time for a wedding. "The number of malls I saw while driving till here is an evidence of the growing prosperity," she says.
|
||||
|
Voice of the young
The singing prowess of Punjabi youth comes to the fore with the release of two more albums Sabia Talwar
Will we ever see two movies of the same production house being launched at the same venue? Can’t say about movies, but Chandigarh witnessed two Punjabi albums - Vigde Sharaabi and Challa in Chandigarh - under the banner of T-Series being launched at Score, Sector-8, on Saturday. Vigde Sharaabi is a multi-album and has the title track by Jassi Gill. We wonder what message he tries to put across. “The title track puts forward the message that excessive alcohol takes a toll on one’s life. Once you hear the track, you will forget about the title.” Jassi Gill, who hails from Khanna, Punjab, came up with his first solo album Batchmate, which earned him fame especially through the track Chudiyan. Jassi feels a responsibility towards the youth, as he is himself a post-graduation student of computer applications at Gobindgarh. As for the future, he will continue to pass on social messages through his songs. And what does he think about the comments on Punjabi music promoting wrongs habits among the youth? “Whatever the Punjabi singers of today are singing is representing the youth and if they like it, it is all okay. If there is a demand, the supply is worth it,” adds Jassi. If the title track Vigde Sharaabi by Jassi Gill gives a message, other tracks titled Whiskey Di Botal Vargi by Jelly and Gaddi by Balli Riar add the fun element to the album. The album also includes singers like Sippy Gill, Feroz Khan, Diljit and Roshan Prince. Why has it become a trend for singers to come up with albums in collaboration? “From the promotion point of view, it becomes easy and the album becomes a collection of the best from all the singers,” says Jelly. Jelly, whose track Tenu Soniye Bulande Jaan Jaan, became a rage throughout North India says Punjab has a lot of talent and that is evident from the number of albums being released off late. Balli Riar’s famous track Banda Marna portrays the typical Punjabi jatt attitude; is the album also like that? “No actually this album has the track Gaddi, which shows Punjabis flaunting cars.” Taking about the album, Challa in Chandigarh by Sarthi K, whose earlier album Chandigarh Fever, we feel that the singer has some strong connect with the City Beautiful. Say Sarthi K, “Although I belong to Nabha, Punjab, I have lots of memories of my friends in Chandigarh.” So the title track spells out the message that the youth should study hard to party hard! Sarthi has also forwarded a song from the upcoming Bollywood movie Son of Sardar. “There are three to four songs from various singers out of which one will be selected as the title track of the movie,” explains Sarthi. The Punjabi music is going places; hope the message reaches the right ears! sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com
|
||||
|
Hands on hubby!
New mother Hilary Duff wants her husband Mike Comrie to be a stay-at-home dad to their newborn son Luca. The 24-year-old Lizzie McGuire star became mother to Luca in March and expects Comrie, 31, to stay at home because she prefers to resume her acting career, reported a website. “She had Mike trained to do diapers and bottle feedings, and she has put him in charge of other household duties, including making breakfast, doing laundry and light cleaning,” a source said.
“Mike loves his son and is enjoying the bonding time, but he jokes he feels more like Hilary’s slave than her husband,” the source added. Duff has no movies scheduled at present, but she recently finished a film project She Wants Me. —PTI
|
||||
|
The U-turn
Supermodel Tyra Banks says she was denied modelling assignments and used to get letters saying she was too fat.
The 38-year-old America’s Next Top Model host has voiced her opinion in support of Vogue magazine’s anti-eating disorders initiative and criticised fashion designers for only giving preference to skinny models, reported a website. “When I was a model I was a four and then I started to get curvy and became a six and I got so many letters saying I was way too big and fashion designers were telling me I was fat. My mom got letters from designers saying they are not going to hire me anymore,” Banks said. —PTI
|
||||
|
Jessica Alba to star in Sin City 2
The Fantastic Four star Jessica Alba and actor Mickey Rourke have signed up for Sin City sequel, A Dame to Kill For.
The 3D film will go on floors later this year and is set to be directed by duo Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller, reported a website. The film will be shot in Austin, Texas at Rodriguez’s Troublemaker Studios in October. The first installment of the crime thriller, set in the corrupt world of Basin City, starred Benicio Del Toro, Rosario Dawson and Bruce Willis and was released in 2005. Alba has a number of movie roles coming up including Escape from Planet Earth where she voices the part of Lena and Machete Kills. Rourke will be starring in forthcoming films Java Heat and Black November. —PTI
|
||||
|
Parineeti wants to do a Fashion
Ishaqzaade star Parineeti Chopra says she would love to act in the remake of her cousin sister Priyanka Chopra’s hit film, Fashion.
The 2008 film directed by Madhur Bhandarkar is based on the dark side of the world of fashion. The film featuring Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranaut and newcomers Mugdha Godse and Arjan Bajwa fetched national awards for both the female leads. “If Priyanka’s any film is being remade then I would love to do Fashion. It is my favorite film of my didi,” Parineeti told reporters at an event. Since her entry in Bollywood, Parineeti has often been asked about competing with her sister, Priyanka. To this she has always replied, “I think I would be foolish to say that I will beat Priyanka, I am not mad. I don’t want to overtake or beat her. She is way ahead of me… she is a wonderful actress and I can only learn from her.” Parineeti was launched by Yash Raj Films in Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl last year following which she bagged many awards in the best debut category for her performance in the Ranveer Singh-Anushka Sharma starrer. “When I entered Yash Raj films I thought my first film would be with Shahrukh second with Aamir and all. Yash Chopra and Aditya Chopra make all kind of films. In just a year they made Ladies...,Ishqazaade...they are also making Dhoom, Ek Tha Tiger when they are making different kind of films so why did I go with just one thought…where I feel I was wrong,” Parineeti said. YRF soon announced the next project – Ishqazaade where she was paired opposite Arjun Kapoor, son of producer Boney Kapoor. The film directed by Habib Faisal, released on May 11 is doing well at the box office. “I have been approached....I am getting offers. But I have not signed anything yet. I guess I should sign a film soon... because I am curious to know what is going to be my next,” she said. Let’s see what’s in store for her.
—PTI
|
||||
|
Yoga suits me: Miranda Kerr
Victoria’s Secret model Miranda Kerr says she loves practicing yoga and pilates, as both exercises suit her.
The 29-year-old mother of one said that she has been practicing yoga for the past 12 years, reported a website. “I love yoga; I practice pilates and light weights. They are the exercises that suit me and my body and I stick to what I enjoy. I have been doing yoga for over 12 years now, I like the physical and mental effect it has on me,” she said. Kerr says staying healthy and looking good is very important to her, so she takes the best possible care of her body by exercising every day. “I work out a lot and eat healthily. I think that health is wealth and it is important to keep your body in shape, both inside and outside. I try to exercise every day, even if it is just for 30 minutes. Even running around after my little one-year-old is like a workout in itself, plus I love to walk everywhere,” said Kerr, who has a 16-month-old son, Flynn, with husband Orlando Bloom. —PTI
|
||||
|
A horror dream
After directing two action movies for Bollywood— Wanted and forthcoming action film Rowdy Rathore - Prabhu Deva now wants to make scary movies. “More than me, people want me to do action films only. Everybody tells me to do action films. But I would love to do horror films,” he said.
A well-established choreographer and actor in the southern film industry and a successful director in Bollywood, the 39-year-old likes both the places and says that it’s the team that is more important than anything else. “South or here, anywhere it is ok until the team is good. The team must be good. We can even do a Spanish film as long as the team is good,” he said. He hit the bull’s eye in Bollywood with Salman Khan-Ayesha Takia starrer Hindi movie Wanted. Now he is coming out with Rowdy Rathore, which has Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha as the lead pair. It is an out-and-out action movie and Prabhu Deva felt that Akshay suited the role perfectly. “I selected Akshay because the character is tailor made for him, you will see. It happens to be an action film and he is very good at it. It’s great to work with him and he is a director’s delight,” said the director. Rowdy Rathore is releasing on June 1. Talking about Sonakshi, he said, “Sonakshi is doing her second film, but it doesn’t seem that this is her second film, it seems that this is her 25th film - she is so professional and so good. Both Akshay and Sonakshi dance well. This is a bonus. Not only fights, dance is also there in the film,” he said.
—IANS
|
||||
|
No space constraints
Legendary musician Elton John marked the 40th anniversary of his hit song Rocket Man by recording a video of it for astronauts in space. The 65-year-old singer sang the classic ballad at his Million Dollar Piano Show in Las Vegas and beamed the video of it to the European Space Agency, reported a publication online.
John made the gesture after learning that Dutch crew member Andre Kuipers is a big fan of the space-themed track, and regularly played it over the craft’s airwaves. “Rocket Man came from those boyhood dreams of travelling beyond the stars. After the single was released, my band and I were invited to the Nasa Hq. Now, 40 years later, it is amazing to hear from the astronauts at the European Space Agency that they like the song,” he said.
|
||||
|
Pearls of wisdom
Eesha Koppikhar is an extremely fit actress and her weight does not fluctuate with her movies. She is married now but fitter than ever. Her husband Timmy is also into holistic health practices. She has trained in martial arts and different forms of fitness. She believes in fitness all the year round. She wants to open a chain of health centres and spas. She shares her fitness mantras with us.
|
||||
|
Kim, Kanye perfect for each other: Khloe Kardashian
Reality television star Khloe Kardashian says sister Kim and new boyfriend Kanye West are right for each other because they are like “two peas in a pod”.
The 31-year-old socialite started dating the Stronger hit maker, 34, recently and her sister Khloe thinks they are a match made in heaven as they are so similar, reported a publication online. Kim, infamous for her 72-day marriage with Kris Humphries, has known West for several years but only recently became romantically involved with him. Kim also said that West will feature in her family’s reality television show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians but she won’t show intimate details like what Khloe and husband Lamar Odom do on their show. “I am not going to be taking a bubble bath and drinking champagne like Khloe and Lamar do. It is not going to be like that. But I want to show my life,” she said. —PTI
|
||||
|
Back in time
The red sail. A brown boat. Dark clouds. A faint image of a boat in the horizon. This is the precise description of the paintings of Dr Vijay Sehgal's Lull Before The Storm. Created at the age of 15, during his study at Doon High School, it remains one of his favourite works till date.
Today, in his post retirement phase, he has decided to take a walk back in time and pursue again all his hobbies. From nurturing his Bonsai, photography and of course painting, this man of many facets still gets up at 3 am to look after his passions in life. Inspired by his art teacher in school, Rathin Mitra and the likes of Van Gogh, Monet and Husain, Vijay could never really become an artist due to parental pressure. His laughter gets contagious, "My parents were very strict regarding this and never could imagine me as a painter," he shares. Specialising in oil and canvas with spatula, his 45 works of art are a result of over two years of dedication. Working in England for over 28 years as an orthopaedic surgeon gave him an insight into not only the lives of several people but also brought him face-to-face with diverse cultures. Pointing to one his works, his daughter Ankita Stopa shares, "In Japan, Cheery Blossom trees only bloom for a week. When he was visiting me, he waited for the bloom to just take a picture." Today, the painting is mustard in the background and lined with red trees on both sides. His profession also took him to Saudi Arabia. The building he has painted was visible from his hospital and we later found that the building was made by Minoru Yamasaki, the same architect who had made the World Trade Centre towers." Healing Power shows sisters from the Missionaries of Charity with the cross behind them. "I like how the colours blend," he says. (On till Sunday, between 10 am-7pm at House no 245, Sector 16, Chandigarh) vasudha@tribunemail.com
|
||||
|
Mirror mirror on the wall!
According to a study based on a survey in the UK, one in ten women admitted that they cannot walk past a car without bending to check their hair and make-up. And, one in three women believe they look their best in their own bathroom mirror, while one in 20 said they looked their worst in the mirror in the washroom at work, according to the poll conducted on 2,000 women by Simple Skincare. What's more interesting is that four in ten even have their favourite mirrors, which they feel they look better in than the others! We check out with some women in the city. Says Neha Singh, director, Girl in The Café, Sector-17, Chandigarh, "This study is absolutely true as I feel that it's just so inherent within women to look themselves up in the mirror when they are not doing anything. I myself check my make-up and hair style literally every time I pass by any kind
of mirror." And in which mirror does she look the best? "I look the best in the mirror placed in my room, which makes me look thinner and trust me you look the worst in all random mirrors," quips Neha. Then there are some who are born with a habit to face the mirror. Says Bani Sahni, from Ice Cube, Sector-7, Chandigarh, "Since my childhood, I'm fond of mirrors; to the extent that I used to study facing the mirror! I make it a point to sit in the front seat of the car so that I can look into the mirror." And in this era of BBM and Facebook photo updates, clicking one's mirror image is also becoming a trend. Says Sonia Singh, an MBA student from Chandigarh, "I know it sounds a bit weird, but I click myself in
front of a mirror for my Blackberry display picture. It's not that I feel conscious, but more confident when I look into any mirror." There are no second thoughts to why a
mirror is called a woman's best friend! sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com
|
||||
|
Formally arrived
The young brigade believes in being smart. They are aware of the latest and make it part of their routine to look ‘in style’ all the time. Stylish now does not mean only ‘brands’ but one’s desire to look good and that’s what warrants a second glance. A student of business management, debonair Shreyans Gupta is all for a stylish attitude.
Your sense of style For me dressing in formals denotes style and the most important is how the person carries himself. One should have an attitude which gels with his actual style. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… My shirt and pants from Jack & Jones. Brand crazy or street pick-ups? Brands are a safe bet but looking smart in street wear is an adventure for me. Your style icon would be… Saif Ali Khan is one person whom I would like to emulate! Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity? Vidya Balan to be sure and Govinda too! Which look would your prefer – sporty, chic or glamorous? Glam all the way! One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…. Wearing slippers with Jeans and even bermudas are a ‘no, no’ with me. Your take on accessories… I am crazy about watches and glares. Given the choice which designer would you be liked to be dressed by? Rohit Bal for his intelligent dressing sense! What gives you a high on the confidence level… What I am wearing and what I am speaking decides my quotient of confidence. (As told to Poonam
Bindra)
|
||||
|
Finding a new flora
Satish Narula
The excitement in horticulture, in fact, comes from the introduction of new flora as adding new features is vital for a good landscape. Such introductions give the garden and landscaping dynamism. We have tried from time to time to introduce you to something new. This time it’s a shrub, the escelpias and a shade climber, a variegated Monstera. The former is almost a new introduction and the latter is an improvement on the already existing Mostera deliciosa, the common and popular shade-loving climber. The plants like Asclepias, Poinsittea etc may be called emphasis plants in the garden as these are such plants that will attract the attention of any visitor due to their attractive and amazing display. From a distance, an Asclepia shrub may look like a Kaner shrub but due to the unusual balloon like ‘fruits’ they are different. The ‘balloons’ are very light and full of air. The structure though plump is air-tight and bears a small stalk within, on which rest the seeds. The tennis ball like light green fruits are very attractive and deceptive at the same time due to otherwise soft spines. The plant when injured oozes out milk, the latex. The plant can be multiplied by cuttings and also with the wind dispersal of seed. Another introduction is Monstera deliciosa variegata. Its variegation is amazing and sparkling white. The whole of the leaf may be white or it may be in patterns. Sometimes on the same plant exactly half of the leaf is white and half of it is deep green. Initially, the leaf is heart- shaped and gets its ‘cuts’ as it matures. The plant is hardy and can be easily grown in the home garden in pots. It can easily be multiplied by way of cuttings with four to five sections. It may be laid horizontally or planted vertically in pots in pure sand. As it gets roots it is transplanted. The sand at the time of propagation should be kept moist. (Narula is a PAU horticulturist)
|
||||
|
Conversation starters
Cama Group announced its entry into the region with the launch of Hotel Cama at Mohali.
Conveniently located extremely close to Chandigarh, Hotel Cama exudes luxury, exclusivity and comfort. The hotel offers its guests 19 tastefully furnished luxurious guest rooms. Hotel Cama offers 12 deluxe rooms, two luxury rooms and five Cama special Verendah rooms, aptly named offering a huge verandah with each room. It also launched “Conversations 24x7” – the first 24x7 Coffee Shop, housed in the basement of the hotel will offer something to please everybody’s palate all day and night long. Hotel Cama also houses PunChin, an Indo-Chinese restaurant, which is sure to be a rage among all foodies in the tricity. PunChin is sure to titillate the taste buds with signature dishes like Thai chicken tikka, murgh burani, murgh mirchonwala and gosht rizala. Adds Inderdeep Singh, director, Hotel Cama, “We are extremely happy to announce the opening of Hotel Cama at Mohali. It had always been my dream to open a dream destination in the city.”
|
||||
|
Feline charm
The teaser of the animation film opens on a happy note featuring a lioness and her cub in the jungle. Between the feline and kids’ happy moments, it’s not all sugar and spice. After all, we have long graduated from the Bambi days. An uprooted tree and all hell breaks lose!
Next, a fluffy green parrot breaks into a song and we know that the green fuzz ball will be the hero of the film. Between the sound glitches, we manage to figure that the movie comes from Nikhil Advani’s stable. The teaser of Delhi Safari, a 3D Stereoscopic film, comes to Chandigarh with the agenda of bringing the city face-to-face with the high points of Krayon animation. The upcoming bilingual film has voices of Akshay Khanna, Sunil Shetty, Boman Irani and Urmila Matondkar. The concept of the film, which by all means beats the regular run-of-the mill animation films, revolves around the growing problem of deforestation and the expanding concrete jungle in India. The music for the animation comes from the house of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and grips the audience, consisting mostly of a probable student bracket for the animation institute. Made with a mind-boggling budget of Rs 28 crore, the animation should ideally be at par with a regular, well-scripted Bollywood masala flick. Minutes into the teaser, the plot comes out and without seeing the end is predictable. “We want the story to have a strong global message,” shares Rashmi Ahad, director media and public relation, representative from Krayon pictures. The film is ready for screening at Annecy International Animation Film Festival. vasudha@tribunemail.com
|
||||
|
High Spirits Vineet Mishra Try this peach flavored Floridian ice tea and you will forget LIIT.
Instructions In a tall glass add the Grey Goose and the peach ice tea, add lime juice. Stir. Add ice and top with Perrier water. Cocktail Jokes - If your doctor warns that you have to watch your drinking, find a bar with mirror. The writer is Director, CocktailJockey.com
|
||||
|
London calling
BBC Entertainment through London Calling; a unique season of programmes, celebrates music, fashion, art, culture and history of Britain’s capital city. The season will be led by live coverage of the spectacular Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations which begins June 3 6:30 PM onwards with
the Thames River Pageant, Concert from Buckingham Palace on June 4 at Midnight, and Services of Thanksgiving and Royal Procession on June 5, 1:45 PM onwards.
The London Calling season includes the much awaited release of the
Bafta winning Sherlock Series 2 on July 2, 8 pm starring Benedict Cumberbatch. Luther, Whitechapel and Spooks are also a part of BBC Entertainment’s line-up of dramas. Keeping its promise of entertainment, BBC Entertainment will be premiering a wickedly funny new comedy series Twenty Twelve inspired by the Olympics, showing the lighter side of the
Games.
The comedy series follows the fictional Olympics Deliverance team as they prepare for the London 2012 games. With the focus on 2012 Olympics, BBC Entertainment brings you an uplifting drama Going for Gold- the ’48 games which
stars Matt Smith (Doctor Who) as Bert Bushall one half of the gold medal-winning double sculls team that swept to Olympic glory against all the odds.
|
||||
|
Hit it right
Abigail Jain who is playing the protagonist Sia in Humse Hai Life on Channel V is enjoying the role of a boxer. As the show has found takers the chirpy and vivacious actor is riding high on confidence
How would you describe your character Sia from Humse Hai Life? Sia is a headstrong girl who dreams of becoming a boxer just like her father. She is emotional at times but strong will as well. Her main problem is managing her anger, which she fails to do and tends to overreact. I am glad to be playing my age and a real character. What do you like the most about Humse Hai Life? This is the first youth based show that I am doing. It is not high on melodrama like some of my previous shows. It is based on a boxer’s life which is a different concept and the audiences should find it interesting. Your family is also into acting? My dad Vijay Pande is a television serial director and I ask him for advice when needed. While acting before him I get conscious too. My younger sister Kimberly made her debut with a serial Bandini. What do you think of reality TV? I love it, especially the dance shows. I have participated in reality shows like Nachle Ve and Meethi Choori No 1 so if such offers come to I would like to take it up. What do you do in your free time ? On my off days I play piano and watch movies. I used to have a Labrador but now I have a Pomeranian dog Honey. Which are your favourite shows on TV currently? The show that I am currently hooked to is Bade Acche Lagte Hai. I have always been a Ram Kapoor fan and I feel that he is at his best in this show. I just love the show and try not to miss any episode.
|
||||
|
The cast and the crew of Sonal Chauhan’s new film with rumoured boyfriend Neil Nitin Mukesh pretended that they forgot her birthday, which happened recently. Then they surprised her with a big cake.
Going places
Comments and controversies surrounding The Dirty Picture never seem to end! And now, with the film scheduled for a re-make in Bengal and down South, the news just gets buzzier! Not surprisingly, it’s Vidya Balan who is once again in the middle of the entire controversy. Rakhi will play Silk Smitha in the Bengali version while Veena Malik is doing the South Indian remake. They both think that they will do better than Vidya! Some confidence.
Astrologers are predicting that it will be a girl for Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra. She is due anytime now. The daughter will be cute and chubby, they say.
Kangna Ranaut has a love scene with John Abraham in Shootout at Wadala. She has worn glass bangles but when John held her hand, they broke and made her hand bleed. Now, she will wear gold bangles.
Lara Dutta is enjoying motherhood. She enjoyed throughout even during her pregnancy. She practiced Yoga during that phase and has launched a DVD of Yoga postures exclusively for pregnant women. Way to go! It is such a sweet contribution to women’s health. Do we see Shilpa Shetty come up with anything like that, in the near future? And after that do we see all the other actresses follow suit? Only time will tell. Fringe benefits: Lara Dutta
|
||||
|
Shed to wed
We all want to look perfect on our Wedding Day and we certainly can’t hide our less than perfect curves under the wraps forever! This is the ultimate dilemma faced by to-be-wed couples the world over, and BIG CBS LOVE, the Diva Destination brings the reality show dealing with this issue through Shedding for the Wedding. The show will feature nine couples determined to lose weight in order to win their dream wedding. Losing weight and getting married are the two most stressful things we find today and these engaged couples have to go through both of these at the same time. The show will take you through an interesting journey of nine engaged couples from different walks of life, living together and battling over 3 months to shed as much weight as possible in time for their dream wedding. The couple that loses the least amount of combined weight at the end of each episode will be eliminated. Catch the reality show Shedding for the Wedding only on BIG CBS LOVE.
CJs mission to clean Ganga
Solidarity and commitment towards reviving the holy river, this weekend, The Citizen Journalist Show features five CJs who have taken up the cause of cleaning the polluted Ganga and spreading awareness about the need to protect and preserve the holy river. CJ Pooja from Varanasi and a bunch of others have started what they call a ‘whistleblower’ campaign. In addition to cleaning the river bank by collecting the garbage, these volunteers create awareness and blow whistles to warn others present there not to pollute the Ganga. CJ Shanti Lal, also from Varanasi, who was forced to stop cleaning the silt deposited on the banks of the Ganga, targets the Banaras Municipal Corporation by alleging misuse of funds meant for cleaning the ghats. CJ Devanand Shukla from Allahabad single handedly tries to ensure that filth and dirt from drains does not flow into the river. CJs Monika Singh and Brijendra Pratap Singh from Kanpur are fighting to clean the Pandu River (a tributary of Ganga), which is being polluted by a power plant. To know more, tune into The Citizen Journalist Show on 20 May, at 5:30 PM only on IBN7.
Shaan or Shantanu?
In this cut-throat game of music, Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar2’s challenges are getting high day by day. The two teams, Champions and Challengers on the show are mentored by Shaan and Shantanu, respectively. As challenge on the show is getting tough, contestants who are winning on the challenges are moving from challengers to champions positions and those who are not making it are moving from champions to challengers. Now the situation is that most of Shantanu’s challengers have moved towards champions whereas Shaan’s Champions have moved to Challengers with the lowest scores. Says Shaan “When my champions perform they don’t think that they are performing as champions, they just concentrate on their song. I want them to think only about their song and give their best.” Well, the question now is who will prove to be the ring leader in this musical game? Tune into Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar Season 2.
|
||||
|
Astro turf
ARIES: ‘The Queen of Pentacles’ blesses you with quiet qualities today. Children will be a source of joy and their progress will make you proud. Indulge in a session of yoga.
Tarot message: Don’t accept situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 34.
TAURUS: There is good news on the cards. You will be in a relaxed and happy mood. Romance will lead to happy moments and singles can meet some special while
socialising. Tarot message: A bird in hand is worth more than two in the bush.
Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 36. GEMINI: The wisdom of “The Hermit” inspires you to make new beginnings. Spending time with family will bring about a sense of peace. Gains from past investments are likely.
Tarot message: Beware of depleting your resources on others. Lucky colour: Forest green.
Magic number: 46. CANCER: “The Magician” conjures up some travel and business opportunities. Partnerships, business problems, past disappointments — all need your attention today. Tarot message: Trust your heart rather than confusing yourself.
Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 54. LEO: You are articulate and others are ready to tune in to what you are offering. Business deals are on the boil but still inconclusive. Work will progress satisfactorily. By evening you can be in an irritable mood.
Tarot message: Avoid frictions with business partners. Lucky colour: Brown.
Magic number: 62. VIRGO: It looks like a very busy day but any indulgence of previous evenings could be catching up with you. An important task to maintain a sound relationship seems difficult. Tarot message: Be firm and stand your ground. Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 59.
LIBRA: The Prince of Wands rides in his flaming chariot of gold to instigate changes at work. Don’t trust unreliable friends or relatives. You should take advice from people whom you see as your ideal in all the matters of life. Tarot message: Never fall for empty promises.
Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52. SCORPIO: Today mixing with friends could be a tricky business. If you don’t want to be alone, choose a companion who is the least likely to irritate you. Don’t get involved in petty arguments.
Tarot message: Consolidate your gains instead of throwing security to the winds. Lucky colour: Grey.
Magic number: 58. SAGITTARIUS: Passionate emotions are likely to accompany your actions . You will have a better chance of getting through odd jobs connected with home and family affairs.
Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Rust.
Magic number: 45. CAPRICORN: “The Hanged Man” helps you to move into new and better situation. You will have to struggle to keep your temper in check today. This is an appropriate time to buy a car or a vehicle of some sort. Tarot message: Focus on your dream project.
Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 56. AQUARIUS: A fine day to plan for future business expansions. Someone you are attracted to at work feels the same way. It is for you to make the first move. Eat wisely; you could be at risk of suffering from digestive problems. Tarot message: Take limited risks while speculating.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 55. PISCES: You may be concerned about certain family issues and need to sort things out. There could be delays with certain business ventures or personal projects. Socialising can be costly.
Tarot message: Outline your goals ahead of time. Lucky colour: Deep red.
Magic number: 28.
|
||||
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is May 20...
You will have ample time to do things to improve your health. Money gains from unplanned sources are expected. You will benefit-as family members will respond to you in a positive manner. A pleasure trip will be satisfying. A changed look is on the way and the more you know about it, the better you’ll be able to adapt to it. Check that the work environment and your particular job are in line with the health and safety regulations. If you are an employee, hitches in relationships with your superiors (and people in high positions) may be due to your perfectionist attitude. Students will have to study hard for they are likely to encounter several distractions in their studies. Socialising with friends and spending more time outdoors will severely affect your studies and some of you may even fail to score good grades in your exams. Supporting other members to maintain harmony is what you do best. A personal issue may deeply threaten peace in the family. There will be a substantial increase in your income due to good planning and applicability of projects that will make the work environment more relaxed, cohesive and friendly. Some of you with alphabets A R S K will travel overseas to scan new areas of work and may sign profitable tie-ups. Friends may need you a ‘distance away’ or, you may hear from a friend you have not seen for a long time or, you may find a friend in great personal need after a ‘true life crisis’ and have to travel for or with them or, any combo of the above. Those having high blood pressure must strictly follow medical advice else there could be some problems. Avoid substandard or TV products/medicines/ointment .You’re at your cool, graceful best and can see relationships with some detachment. Your ability to unlock the passions of others can elevate both your romantic ties and friendships. Mood: Distracted Compatible signs: Aquarius, Gemini Lucky colours: Deep red, pink Lucky days: Saturday and Monday. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 18, 23. 35 Lucky gem: Rutilated quartz - The Healing Gemstone Lucky flower: Day-Lily (Yellow) Suggestion on Birthday: Touch the feet of father or equal ranking person for blessings.
|
|
| HOME PAGE | |
Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir |
Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs |
Nation | Opinions | | Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi | | Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail | |
You have to be seen
I had no strategy, no support; but I had a gut feeling and I went by it. It might not sound as a serious success funda; so be it! I had my share of struggle, but I was not desperately hungry to eat everything. I kept working, doing roles that got me noticeability. I did not go out and tell the world that I had arrived; I kept doling out work while learning from my own mistakes. 
Working in cinema Down South gives a lot of exposure to a new-comer. I learnt a good number of things there, which helped me while working in Hindi cinema. 
Say no
I have never tried to be what I wasn’t. I have never pretended or acted smart for work. All I can say without sounding pompous is that I worked really hard. I would always give an extra element to my acting, working on it to the best of my abilities.
Women will remain women — always concerned about their looks. Be it looking into their own dressing rooms at home or their bathroom mirrors or while passing by a car or shop windows, women check their appearances eight times a day!
Strange is the world of plants. We think we have seen all sorts of plants
Ingredients
Forget me not
Great expectations
The glass ceiling
Mother’s delight
Kamaal Rashid Khan [May 20, 1960] made his debut in 2008 with the film Desh Drohi. The film garnered some publicity in the wake of the 2008 attacks on North Indians in Maharashtra. He was in the 3rd season of Indian reality TV programme Bigg Boss, which is the Indian version of Celebrity Big Brother. Astrologically speaking his horoscope forecasts true rags to riches story. Some controversies too are in store.