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Happy-go-lucky
The actors of upcoming movie From Sydney With Love share how the film is a perfect family entertainer
For a trio that’s yet to spell star power and pacify the long-waiting audience with just a greeting here and a smile there, they’re pretty late. Accordingly, we have a starlet and stars in the making, offering apologies and doing their bit to pacify one and all. “In fact, I even did my make-up in the car,” laughs Bidita Bag, in Chandigarh to promote From Sydney With Love. Joining her are Sharad Malhotra and Karan Sagoo, with the chorus, “In fact, on our way, we’ve been stopping and getting the real taste of Punjab with aloo paranthas, tikkis and lassi.” Pretty much in sync with the happy-go-lucky characters they play in reel life, all the while harping on the
word “real.” manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Living a dream
Zubeen Garg of Ya Ali fame lives life on his own terms, notwithstanding the controversies that surround him…
By his own admission, he is impulsive to the core and speaks out the first thing that comes to his mind. The media calls him controversy’s child and the local media thrives on the faux pas he makes, the suggestive use of a woman’s anatomy in his recent Bihu song or the wrong attire he wore for Bhupen Hazarika’s funeral are a few cases in point. But he is still the youth icon, who can get young boys and girls drooling not just with his voice but his cute looks and unassuming nature. He is Zubeen Ali…oops, Zubeen Garg of Ya Ali fame. “I am okay with the Zubeen Ali tag. In fact, many in my fraternity nicknamed me as Zubeen Ali because I have sung a lot of Sufi songs,” he makes us feel welcome with his easy-going nature as makes a place for us at his studio Gyanam in
Guwahati. Zubeen Garg, the man who dreams a lot, conceptualises more and concretises the most has now primarily focused his attention on Assamese music and
movies.“Yes. Acting is one thing that is keeping me busy these days and I am enjoying it,” says
Zubeen, whose last Assamese film Man Jai was a huge success. “I am doing a film You Are Not My Julie.” And in between he is recording three albums, one in Hindi and two in Assamese. How difficult is it for an Assamese singer to get the Hindi diction right, we ask him, knowing how difficult it is for anyone from this non-Hindi speaking belt to even carry out a simple conversation in Hindi. “My father speaks six languages and I was lucky to have learnt them from him and also practice my skill as I had to move from one place to another like my father, who was a magistrate and kept getting transferred. I did my schooling from English, Assamese and Bengali medium schools.” Well, this moving from place to place not just honed his linguistic skills but also made him the bohemian and restless Zubeen that he is today. Coming to music, his first guru was his mother and then he learnt tabla from Pandit Robin
Benerjee. Guru Ramani Rai acquainted him with Assamese folk. And when he came out with
Anamika, his first album in 1993, it became a super hit for he blended the modern music and folk elements and became a pioneer of sorts. And it was Anamika and the subsequent albums that made his entry into Bollywood a smooth one. So the break in Kaante happened without much struggle, which eventually led to the phenomenal Ya Ali. So when can we expect the Ya Ali magic again? “Songs like Ya Ali happen once in a while. But yes, with that song I have raised my benchmark,” he says. Well, admittedly singing is in his blood, composing is his extension, film is his passion and social service and wildlife protections are his sidekicks, so who is the real
Zubeen? “The eternal dreamer,” he answers without a second thought before he goes away to the waiting fan to oblige her with a Kodak moment.
parbina@tribunemail.com
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Small film, big cause
Sumeer Walia’s documentary The Life I Left Behind takes us into the by-lanes of children and drug abuse
This is Monu’s story. Monu is a rag-picker. He is ten. Before the conceptualisation of this documentary, Monu was into substance abuse. Like several children his age, Monu was found at a hardware store in the middle of the night purchasing a very harmless-looking whitening fluid. Brought to Ashiana by Vibha Taluja, the General Secretary, Association for Social Health of India, Monu today is just like any normal child who studies, has friends, loves to laugh and has quit drugs. This is his story. "This was pretty much around the time I had just come back from USA," says Sumeer Walia, producer of the film. Not new to the concept of working with NGOs, Sumeer made time to visit them during his day trips in Mexico as well. It was during his project at TiE, that Sumeer went to Ashiana. "This was just to be around kids and see what all they do," Sumeer says. This was the first time Sumeer and Monu met and today Monu’s story is what The Life I left Behind is all about. "Initially, I didn’t even have a script. The deal was to just observe and capture what they do," he says. The basic edition and camera skills were acquired by Sumeer during his work with a major cruise-liner, Holland America line, based in Seattle, where Sumeer worked as a photo and video manager. The candid shots became the basis, but eventually Sumeer lost interest. It was the urge to see what really happened to Monu that took him back. "We found out that out of the three who were caught the other night, two had fled. Only Monu stuck along," says Sumeer. Armed with his camera, Sumeer followed Monu, spoke to parents and tracked his journey from being a child affected by drug abuse to a normal kid. Always aware of the extra set of eyes following him, Monu recovered broadly due to Ashiana’s contribution. "The sight of lost innocence evokes humility. I actually felt that I was so lucky and was able to groom my girls well," Sumeer says. Dressed in a sea-green dress, his youngest daughter runs to him. "The song at the end of film has been sung by her," Sumeer smiles. Ready to tie-up with various schools and state governments, Sumeer will ensure that the documentary will fulfil the purpose for which it has been made. "It is about sensitising the masses regarding the problem," he says. Looking at his personal responsibility to give something back to society has been the focus of this documentary. "Plus technology has opened many avenues. It does not need a 100-crore investment. I had a thought and now, I am getting ready for film festivals," Sumeer says. vasudha@tribunemail.com
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Carry on girl
Punjabi cinema today stands at the edge of a revolution. From some serious cinema making waves to comedy throwing the audience in splits, Punjabi cinema sure is carving a niche of its own. Khushboo Grewal, an anchor, who made her mark by participating in Ms India North, talks about being a part of this growing industry. Playing the second lead role in the movie Carry on Jatta, she is all giggles and smiles. “The moment I read the script, I was busy rolling on the floor,” she says. Laced with enough humour, the film fell in to her lap due to her association with Gurpreet Ghuggi. “We worked together in Munde UK De. He remembered me from there,” she smiles. The lady was taking a break from television and decided to take on the project. “We all worked like a family and totally enjoyed the shoot,” she says, recalling how she requested Sumeep Kang, the director, to send the script so that she could just laugh it off before the shoot. Currently anchoring shows on a television channel, Khushboo recognises the constraints regional actresses face in Bollywood. “The Indian television industry is too huge and everyone aims to minimise risks,” she says. Having wrapped up a cameo in Vinay Pathak’s Gour Hari Dastaan, the actor is thrilled with the experience. “Although a breakthrough at that level in the industry is really tough, there is no doubt that you tend to get repeated once you have worked with someone,” she says. vasudha@tribunemail.com
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Sharing a vision
As the background music slowly sinks in and makes an effort to create a rhythmic stroke for lifeless canvases, a little drop of colour is what reveals the mystery. This is what 15 different artists are trying to capture during two-day long visual art workshop that started on Saturday at Rotary House in sector 18 Chandigarh. Based on the theme ‘Celebrating creativity’, the workshop has a uniqueness of sort, since it brings together a sea of different expressions and moods.
“Art is a continuous journey and those who take it as a destination certainly misread the art,” says Sadre Alam, former principal of Patna school of Arts and now a senior professor at Fine Arts department in Jamia Millia University in Delhi. One of the senior artists who draws his lineage from Bengal school of art, he feels that there is no permanent yardstick to measure the quality of art. “Art is the universal language and if an artist manages to create a universal appeal in his depiction then I think, that art will survive longer than the artist,” says Rohit Verma from Jammu. He thinks that it is easier to create the world complex around you but what holds the ground for longer period is the simplicity of expression. As we speak to other artists, they think there is nothing called perfect art. It is an amalgamation of outward and inward experiences, which an artist brings to the blank universe and then makes it relevant for the viewers. Chandigarh’s visual artist Madan Lal feels that an artist is the product of his environment but what makes him relevant is how aesthetically he nurtures his outer experiences in his creativity. “This is the basic aim of this art workshop. The idea here is to bring different people together and give them a chance to learn from each others’ techniques and life experiences,” says Panchkula based artist Neenu Vij, organiser of this workshop. Other artists who are participating are KK Ganghi from Jammu, Bheem Malhotra from Chandigarh, Dipto Naryana Chatterjee from Gaziabad, Kamal Sohal from Patiala, Lalit Prashar from Amritsar, Mona Ghosh from Kolkatta, Naval Kishore from Delhi, Praveen Tiwari from Delhi, Prabh Inder Lal from Chandigarh, Sanjay Kumer and Shakti A Singh from Rohtak and Satwant Sumail from Chandigarh. All are working on different themes and subjects and their final works will be displayed after some time.
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Astro turf
ARIES: You may benefit from monetary gains. Deal with paper-work that has been building up. It is time to slow down and recharge your physical and spiritual energies, so don’t push yourself.
Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself as much as possible in a new project. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 52. TAURUS: Postpone work that requires concentration and physical efforts. Be diligent about sticking to your diet and exercise routine today; you need to pay attention to your health. Pursue a gentle sport or go for a walk. Tarot message: Let things run their course. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 50. GEMINI: A neighbour will gossip; lend an ear and hear something that might turn out to be invaluable information. You may be destined for better things than you can imagine. You will have difficulty getting along with associates. Tarot message: Avoid the tendency to criticise others. Lucky colour: Peacock green. Magic number: 35. CANCER: A restless night’s sleep can result in irritability. A love affair could distance you from your partner. Anxiety might be at an all-time high. Take care of your health and money at the same time. Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky colour: Mauve. Magic number: 27. LEO: You must not do anything to damage your reputation. It will be difficult to avoid conflict between home life and employment affairs. It would be best to deal with minor issues that do not arouse conflict. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 32. VIRGO: Everybody will love you and small problems as well as pretty grievances will disappear. Keep your mind on the business at hand. You will be at the beck and call of others more than you like. Keep up the good work. Tarot message: Try not to lend money. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 57.
LIBRA: Confidence and good feelings are in abundance. Trust your own instincts. Don’t listen to other people as they could have hidden agendas. Plans for a business merger will be successful. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance, and take control. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 39 SCORPIO: A bright start to the day. New contracts are likely to prove most valuable. Communicating with people at a distance should be extremely helpful. Clear thinking is necessary in whatever you do. Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 64. SAGITTARIUS: The day starts on a jarring note. You will not be able to stick to schedule. Do not rush jobs that require careful handling. It would be best to do one thing at a time. Avoid a social gathering. Tarot message: Take no chances despite the assurances of people. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 33 CAPRICORN: You may have to be stricter with loved ones. A new career, overseas travel, change of relationship or a residence are all possibilities. Have faith in your intellectual ability and make choices based on your needs. Tarot message: Allow a bad situation to pass. Lucky colour: Aqua blue. Magic number: 40. AQUARIUS: Today you will get money from an unexpected source. Important business matters can be handled carefully. Be more realistic. Students: fun in the campus foreseen. Lovers are in a cheerful mood. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 31. PISCES: A house or office move is unlikely. In public meetings control your temper. Your workload could weigh you down. If you are one of those people who can’t say no, you are about to learn. Tarot message: Take one step at a time and avoid being over-anxious. Lucky colour: Golden brown. Magic number: 60.
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The year ahead
If your birthday is July 29...
Ever since you were young, you had dreams that you have not realised till date. The reason you've given up on goals in the past is because you did not put enough effort to make them work. Promise yourself right now that you will do whatever it takes to achieve at least one of your childhood dreams. You'll show you are conscientious and aware of your limits. This attitude will be greatly appreciated and will avoid disagreements with a superior. You'll be very stubborn and not willing to satisfy your partner's needs; you'll hurriedly complete all your projects and will be very
impatient. Get on the same frequency as your boss or other higher-ups; show your willingness to further the group goals and get moving. Partnerships of all complexions come under the spotlight during the next four months. Friendships or a love affair could be affected. Look at this phase as a chance to improve your dealings with all these people and create a harmonious atmosphere. You'll make a careful analysis of everything, so that you are well-prepared. If you can get some rest, you will be amazed at how different everything appears. When you finally start again, you will feel very refreshed. If you refuse to change, you will only make things worse. Dissatisfaction will lead to sadness if you do not find a new game to play. Spending may rise, but will return to normal. Some expense in travel and 'hosting' is likely. You are likely to face some changes in your work scenario. There could be expansion or diversification of business. Some of you could receive promotions and there could be increase in income as well. You could be opting for a skill enhancement or other academic course. The individuals who suffer from abnormal blood pressure, diabetes and heart trouble should exercise due caution. Any negligence could be disastrous. You are advised to take yoga. Keep your eating regulated. Mood: Straight and clear Compatible signs: Gemini, Capricorn Lucky colours: Aqua, Teal Lucky days: Tuesday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 6, 17, 19
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Full on entertainment
If you are wondering whether you will soon get to see your favourite television show in 3D, then you will have to wait a while before that happens. 3D here is the family of Dhanwantrilal Dhyanchand Dholakia in a brand new show of SAB TV called Golmaal Hai Bhai Sab Golmaal Hai. SAB TV even this time is living up to its promise of delivering an entertaining comedy that explores a different sub-culture within the umbrella of the Indian culture. The show is based in Juhu, Mumbai and promises to make you forget all your troubles of a hectic life. Golmaal Hai Bhai Sab Golmaal Hai is a show that brings back the same humour and chaos of Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s original Golmaal. With veteran actors like Tiku Talsania and Apara Mehta, you sure can expect some unique laughs. Swapnil Joshi was thus the right choice to play the lead role in it. He plays cupid in the lives of the people in 3D’s household and at the same time tries to win his love interest Dhwani Dholakia, who is 3D’s niece; played by Mugdha Chapekar. Swapnil’s character Sachin plans to fill the lives of people in the show with love and challenges. He brings together the members of 3D’s family and urges them to accept love and its inevitability. But it is not that simple as it sounds because this is a family of non-believers. Caught between his love for Dhwani and the anti-nature of the family, Sachin tries hard to find a middle-ground. Watch him on SAB TV’s Golmaal Hai Bhai Sab Golmaal Hai August 13.
Bharti had a great fall
Humpty dumpty had a big fall is a rhyme that all kids know but on the sets of Colors' Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, it was Bharti who had a big fall. After her sexy cabaret act, Manish Paul led on by co-host Ragini was challenged to lift Bharti and take her to the Hawa Mahal for her scores. After a heroic effort, he managed to totter and reach till the end of stage. The thought of reaching the finishing line obviously did not appeal to him because the next thing you know, Bharti was on the floor, with Manish on top and poor Savio trying to figure who to save first. With Bharti rubbing her elbow and Manish alternately bowing down to Savio and holding his back, the audiences and the judges were on the floor while this comic duo was in action. Manish even suggested that a shrine be made in Savio's name since lifting Bharti is not a feat that can be achieved by a mere mortal. Well, in this case our Jack and Jill fell down the hill, before they even managed to climb the hill. Here's hoping they are both ok after their
fall.
Curtains down
The Grand Finale episode shoot of UTV STARS presents Lux The Chosen One culminated recently. The finale was judged by none other than the gorgeous Karishma Kapoor who looked stunning in a fitted black dress and accessories to go along with it. She, along with mentor of the show Genelia Deshmukh, played a pivotal role in choosing the winner and crowning her the title of The Chosen One. The finale was being hosted by the very suave and charming Vishal Malhotra.
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Fresh start
Sumant Dadhwal
Ingredients
450 gm boiled sliced potatoes
Method
Peel potatoes and slice them. Mix balsamic vinegar, sugar, mustard with salt and pepper, mix thoroughly then add olive oil. Mix the dressing with the potatoes add corn kernels and let is refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Before serving add halves of cherry tomatoes and toss. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the salad with fresh basil leaves and serve into four salad bowls. (Dadhwal is an executive chef
with Taj Chandigarh)
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Designs from Pakistan
The four-day Chandigarh Shopping Fiesta which started at Himachal Bhawan, Sector 28 includes many designer labels but the centre of attraction are the stalls from Pakistani designers. Designer Rukhsana Malik from Lahore is in the city for the fifth time to display her creations. She said, “India and Pakistan are both culturally rich countries. So, these exhibitions give the designers a chance to exchange what we have inherited.”
Another designer from Pakistan Huma Khan said, “Chandigarh is really a beautiful city and people here are not only generous, but also have a good sense of fashion and dressing. That is why the latest trends in fashion can be seen here anytime.” The prices at these stalls range from Rs 800 up to Rs 11,000. Other major exhibitors include Design N Style, Bhegam’s, Living Marvels and Zeba Designs.
— TNS
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Known for making movies that leave you shaken and stirred, National Award winning director Madhur Bhandarkar recently introduced his much anticipated film Heroine. Overwhelmed by the response to the trailer, Madhur said, “How can I begin without thanking you all for the continuous support that you all have shown me in my career of eleven years! It is your love and support that keeps me going and thank you seems like an understatement for this. I hope you like my Heroine as much as you have liked my previous movies.” And even Kareena is happy with all the praises pouring in. “I am so happy that you have liked the trailer. This is a very special movie for me and it was a brilliant experience working with Madhur Bhandarkar. Heroine is going to carve a different niche in my career,” said an excited Kareena Kapoor.
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Advertising over artistic merit
Today, box-office collection is what defines a film’s success. However, critically-acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur isn’t very happy with the ongoing trend and said that today films have become a product of hype more than artistic merit.
"It’s sad that the media focus on films all over the world these days is box office figures on opening weekend, not the film. No one went to see Masoom in the first week of release. The film picked up next week and was unstoppable. Today it would be impossible to release a film like
Masoom,” he said. Speaking about his film Mr India, the director said, “Production houses see films as disposable product with shelf life of one weekend, maximum two. We tried to make films to last a lifetime and beyond.
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Stefani struggled to balance work, family
Singer Gwen Stefani reveals she struggled to maintain a balance between work and family when her band No Doubt was re-formed in 2008.
"We were only able to The 42-year-old singer has sons Kingston, 6, and Zuma, 4, with husband Gavin Rossdale. But Stefani admits that the entire struggle helped in the success of the record too.
— IANS
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Ice, ice baby
Green Twister converts fresh fruits like custard apple, banana, strawberry, mango into ice cream of the same
flavours. Frozen fresh fruits are put in the machine, which mixes perfectly with the ice cream base vanilla after-which one can collect the ice cream in a cone or a cup. This machine can also create fat free ice creams and frozen yogurt.
— TNS
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Richa Sharma (July 29, 1972, Faridabad) made her debut as a singer with Sawan Kumar’s Salma pe dil aa gaya in 1996 and followed it up by a number of films until the big hit came by in the form of Taal, where she sang for AR Rahman. She appeared on the singing reality show Jo Jeeta Wohi Super Star as a guest judge. The versatile playback singer has also done quite a few albums.
Balsamic potato and corn salad
If you thought that it’s impossible to get fresh fruit ice cream in these days of preservatives, you need think again. ‘Green Twister’ manufactured by Blueberry Equipment, an ice-cream machine lets you enjoy your desired fruit ice cream in less than 8 seconds. Now it comes to Chandigarh.