Punjabi to the core
Mona

To announce the third edition of Punjab International Fashion Week, Arjan Bajwa and Simran Kaur Mundi came to Chandigarh to rightfully claim their Punjabi heritage

One thing is for sure, good-looking actor Arjan Bajwa is proud of his heritage. Rooted that he is, he can’t stop raving about Punjabi music, clothes and culture taking over Bollywood cinema.

Brand Ambassador for the third season of Blenders Pride Punjab International Fashion Week (PIFW), Arjan shares excerpts from his journey in films and fashion. Without a godfather or connections, he definitely has to slog it out, but that’s not made him bitter.

“It’s a long struggle for sure but the returns are sweeter,” says the actor who would soon be seen in Son of Sardar. “Much of Bollywood culminates in Punjab, so is the story of my upcoming movie that moves from London to this state.”

Having done close to half-a-dozen Hindi films and some more Telugu ones, this one is a free spirit. “I think I was the first “imported” boy in Telugu cinema,” he grins. And by his eighth film, he has got a fairly good grasp over the language. Hindi films remain the focus, but he is inundated with Punjabi film offers.

He blushes when complimented over his fine Punjabi accent, “I can even read and write in it.” So, is he serious about picking up a Punjabi film? “I am. When I can do Telugu cinema, why not my own,” he asks. With two more Hindi films in his kitty and a Punjabi film that he is seriously thinking about, Arjan is ready to slog it out. Meanwhile, he hopes that events like PIFW elevate Punjab to a fashion savvy state!

I am a born actor…

Riot of colours

The finale of Blender’s Pride Punjab International Fashion Week (PIFW) will be by designer Jattinn Kochhar. His collection comprises evening-wear, inspired heavily from romantic numbers. “I have used a deluge of colours in my collection, which is reflective of emotions in love songs. It’s like a riot of colours,” says he.

Simran Kaur Mundi, the fresh face of PIFW, is out of the modelling mould. Her outing in Bollywood with Jo Hum Chahein may not have made much of a mark, but she is happy to have taken her first step. She is soon to debut in Punjabi film Best Of Luck, which is also Jazzy B’s debut. And the girl is all-excited about it. “It’s a kind of homecoming for me,” says the lissom beauty. Having been brought up in Mumbai, she is pretty fluent in Punjabi for that’s her mother tongue. “You know for the 24-day Canada schedule, I spoke Punjabi all the while, not even a word of English. The hangover was so great that back in Mumbai I even addressed a vendor in Punjabi, which of course didn’t work.”

If you thought all the models need some acting course, at least Simran doesn’t. “See all of us are acting in everyday life. When sad, we keep a happy face for our parents. Bringing the emotions on screen isn’t that easy, but I think I can manage well.”

One thing that Simran finds hard is to cry. Once when after much difficulty she finally managed to bring tears to her eyes, she was jumping with joy in her heart. Balancing Bollywood and Punjabi films isn’t easy, but Simran is happy taking the later forward. “I am enjoying working in Punjabi films, as not only is the industry growing, but I also feel at home,” says the Miss India-turned-model-turned-actor with a winsome style!

Bling it on…

Ludhiana always had the money, but when and where to spend is what events like Punjab International Fashion Week are telling people. This is what Ludhiana-based designer Sonu Gandhi believes.

Part of Punjab International Fashion Week, she is happy adding shararas and lachas to lehangas for the bride. While velvet and chiffons remain her favourite fabric, its golden shimmer that’s an essential part of her.

“I have been experimenting a lot with velvet salwars for this season,” says the designer, who is happy with her journey in the fashion world. mona@tribunemail.com

Success mantra
Winning moves
Mona

Gen VP Malik (retd)
ROLE MODEL: Gen VP Malik (retd). Photo: Nitin Mittal

There are ups and downs in everyone’s life; those who make use of the highs and beat the lows are successful. Gen VP Malik (retd), former Chief of Army Staff, in his early seventies, is pretty agile and engaged in addressing security issues, giving motivational lectures and travelling the world; leading life to the full (he was thrilled to see his favourite football team Spain win against Italy at Kiev at the recent Euro Cup).

Having led the Indian Army during the Kargil conflict, he isn’t the one to accept defeat at any stage. Fond of reading, his Kargil: From Surprise to Victory carries the first person account of the 1999 war. “At Kargil, we were surprised at many levels — political, strategic and tactical. It was the ethos of the Indian Army, faith in each other and the spirit that enabled overcome all barriers,” he believes.

The recipient of Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Gen Malik shares his take on a soldier’s success.

Just work hard

I believe leaders are not born; all you have to do is work hard. In Army, it becomes a habit right in the NDA days. Discipline is good not only for your own self but also society. Army teaches you this all the way.

Belief in self does wonders

If I can do it, I can make others do it. Belief in the self is important to lead the troupes that may have to face the bullets. If I can brave the sub-zero temperature or sweltering desert heat or swim through the stream, so can my boys. Reading the illustrious military history and about great lives encourages one to lead an exemplary life.

Make the most of opportunities

There are two ways to look at an opportunity. One is to use it to accomplish something or let it go; someone else will make use of it. Volunteering to be in conflict zone or tough positions only helps one grow. Experience earned there is useful in life.

Get wiser with experience

What I learnt as a Captain or Colonel helped me in my term as the Chief of the Army. I can relate to what the boys are feeling at a particular stage, as once I had been there too. Be it fighting a war or dealing with political authorities, all was manageable because of my experience of not only leading the troupes but also staff job.

Learn on the go

Knowledge is never-ending. Armed forces continue to lay emphasis on it. Be inquisitive, keep learning. Whatever stage of life you are in, you just can’t stop learning. I consider travelling and interacting with people a wonderful way of learning.

mona@tribunemail.com

Going on record
Jasmine Singh

Upcoming singer Manveer Bajwa is happy that the Punjabi music industry is welcoming towards new-comers

You have five seconds to list a place, an area or a sphere where technology hasn’t seeped in…right from getting up in the morning to retiring at the end of the day, technology travels like our second self. So, when an aspiring Punjabi singer Manveer Bajwa shows us his newly opened state-of-the-art recording studio Rhythm Crafts in Chandigarh, it is certainly not a revelation. What we topple over is the fact that more and more Punjabi singers, both aspiring and established, are coming up with recording studios that have just about every equipment one can imagine!

Manveer, who is all set to release his debut Punjabi album before December, has a story of sorts to share. This young singer, who startled his parents when he expressed his desire to be a Punjabi singer, laughs remembering how he convinced his folks. “I come from a business family and my parents ignored my passion in music as one of the many things kids want to do. But when they saw me doing riyaaz on harmonium every day, they knew they had lost me to music!”

I am not a trained singer, whatever I have learnt is by listening to singers like Gurdas Maan, and the newer ones like Honey Singh. But I realised soon after staying in Australia for four years that a lot of technology had entered the field of music as well

Manveer would have released his album a long time back, but some not ‘very viable’ things didn’t let that happen. “Our music and film industry is growing with every new release. Nevertheless, we still have a long way to go as far as promoting aspiring singers is concerned,” says Manveer, who decided to open his own recording studio for the same reason. “I am not a trained singer, whatever I have learnt is by listening to singers like Gurdas Maan, and the newer ones like Honey Singh. But I realised soon after staying in Australia for four years that a lot of technology had entered the field of music as well,” adds this young singer, who has given music to five tracks in his own album.

“Music production is a vast and important branch of the music industry and Punjabi singers are also moving towards newer techniques for creating music. Through Rhythm Craft Studios, I want to help upcoming singers who don’t have to run away to either Mumbai or Delhi for recording.”

Manveer, who has worked on his album for almost a year, doesn’t want to be just about any other album or a one-hit wonder. “I have maintained a rhythm in all my songs, which have a touch of desi and angrezi beats,” adds Manveer, who feels that Punjabi music industry is welcoming new singers. jasmine@tribunemail.com

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The need is to be vigilant as someone at office might try to harm your interest or reputation. Call friends you haven’t seen for a long time. Socially, there may be quite a few rumours, so keep an open mind. Tarot message: You have well-wishers who will give you sound advice.Lucky colour: Turquoise Lucky number: 60

TAURUS: Finances and investments will take up a major chunk today. Businessmen may decide to take care of their portfolios, stocks and shares. The planets indicate that this is a favourable time to deal with speculation. Tarot message: Take limited risks. Lucky colour: Aqua Lucky number: 52

GEMINI: Many of you may receive some sound counselling from unexpected sources, so pay attention to everything that you hear. Those of you facing a cash crunch may be bailed out by a friend. Tarot message: Health of an elderly member at home will need looking after. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels Lucky number: 46

CANCER: Many of you may receive bonuses or pay hikes that were unexpected while others may receive appreciation for their hard work. At home, you may have to balance the demands of work with personal commitments. Tarot message: Leave things open ended if you want best results. Lucky colour: White Lucky number: 39

LEO: The day will be busy yet happy in which you will be able to achieve a lot in your personal and professional life. At work you will be appreciated and rewarded for hard work. Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. Lucky colour: Sea green. Lucky number: 28

VIRGO: A hectic social life will keep you on your toes today and lead to some new and interesting associations. A special someone may not have enough time for you. With patience you will be able to improve the situation. Tarot message: Everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Cream Lucky number: 63

LIBRA: Most of you will be craving for something stimulating and entertaining today. At work, you will be open to challenging assignments. Certain complications at work may be getting trickier. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Deep red. Lucky number: 41

SCORPIO:Manage personal relationships with diplomacy and thoughtfulness. This is a day in which you will need to think with your heart. Being vulnerable and open towards your partner will not make you weaker. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Orange. Lucky number: 32

SAGITTARIUS: Those who are single will receive good proposals and they should consider them.  Stomachache might bother you. At work, you will be open to feedback and some of you will also be planning to prepare for promotions. Tarot message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Mauve Lucky number: 30

CAPRICORN: If confused about relationships, don’t hesitate to seek help. You may be surprised by what you learn. Married will bring back the spark in their relationship. Singles experience a deepening of a friendship. Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation. Lucky colour: Peach Lucky number: 64

AQUARIUS: Travelling and communication will be part of the day and so would an interest in religion and spirituality. Children will be filled with energy.  Some of you might be philosophical and spiritually inclined. Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at work place. Lucky colour: Saffron. Lucky number: 50

PISCES: Adventure, fun and entertainment will be on the top of your mind today and you may spend a good deal of time partying with friends. You will surely get to hone your interpersonal skills. Tarot message: Be sure about involving yourself in a new project. Lucky colour: Purple. Lucky number: 25

Collars up
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

The autumn & winter collection is all about bright hues, ornate fabrics and collars in all forms and sizes

'Sales' are perhaps the biggest indicator of a new fashion line. And for fashionistas who have their shopping bags ready for a brand new wardrobe, the autumn/winter collection is all about shapes, ornate fabrics, embellishments, bright hues, swathe of tweed, some Perspex heels and a pair of what we're now calling investment trousers. And yes, collars are going to peep out in every form, be it in a top, shirt, sweater or even a dress. But one thing that we forgot to mention is - wear your trousers (and even the jeans) a little shorter than before, which is the golden rule for the season.

"In short, you can play safe with shapes—utilitarian, military-inspired and plenty covered up. For fabrics we will witness velvet, jacquard, lace, damask and lot of embellishment, so don't hold back," says fashion designer Sabah Khan, who has won accolades for her fashion line at LFW.

Collars have been in trend for the last few seasons and they're set to be huge in autumn/winter 2012. "Collars are definitely setting the stage for the autumn/winter collection whether they're embellished, detached or in contrasting colours," says Divya Kapoor from Samsaara.

She adds, "Other than this we will see a stilt of colour and detailing this autumn/winter. Emphasis is on embellishment whether it is with scarves, footwear or a bag."

Well, with Lakme Fashion Week going on a number of new trends have been thrown in. And who knew doodling could become a fashion statement, till Aartivijay Gupta's collection showcased shift dresses and trench coats in plain white cloth with black doodles. "Layered look comes back every season but this time it's here to stay, so toughen your look with structured jackets, epaulettes and gold buttons," says ace designer Anju Modi, whose collections have won her a number of accolades. In colours she says, "It's going to be reds, charcoal, ivory, teal blue and aubergine."

Considering the comeback of the colour red, even the New York designers have deemed the red dress as a must have. From day-wear to evening wear, the metallic trend is shining bright and it is in dazzling gold lamé and sparkling silver embellishments. Old-fashioned glamour has also hit the runways and so has the 'geek' look with thick-rimmed specs, buttoned up collars and preppy layers.

Fashion forecast

  • Collars are going to peep out in every form, be it in a top, shirt, sweater or even a dress.
  • We will se a stilt of colour and detailing this autumn/winter with emphasis on embellishment.
  • Layered look comes back every season, but this time it's here to stay so toughen your look with structured jackets, epaulettes and gold buttons.
  • 'Geek is chic again' look will rule, with thick-rimmed specs, buttoned up collars and preppy layers.
  • Minimal tailoring and boxy white jackets will rule this season.

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is August 8...

A smart partner or co-worker will help you expand your ideas, as well as help you implement it. Cultivate an insight that helps you win over situations.

Number eight is the manager—strong and successful. Ruled by Saturn, you will be ambitious, business-minded, practical, leading, authoritative, successful, courageous, accomplished and organised.  If expressed negatively: tense, narrow, materialistic and forceful.

Your finances need careful attention, particularly if you have been ignoring them recently. Sort out things, if that means paying a few bills or getting rid of some unhelpful financial habits. If you have overspent this month, you will have to face the music and decide on your best course of action. Certain situations are not nearly as cut and dried as you might like to think. So, do your best not to fall into the trap of thinking that a delicate problem is easy to solve and getting angry when people fail to tackle it in the way you suggest. You may even have to eat your words at some point, which will give you mental indigestion. You will see an opening for your future career. Things will go well for those born in the first decade. You will feel satisfied, have more self esteem and will face life in a positive way.

This period will truly test your inner strength and ultimately will give you a better sense of who you are. You will need to make some hard choices, fast decisions and put your perceptions to test. Make some time for introspection so that at the end of it you will be a better person, empowered for whatever life throws at you.

Mood: In need of ‘frosty awareness’

Compatible signs: Cancer, Capricorn

Lucky colours: Sea green & silver

Lucky days: Wednesday and Saturday.

Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 17, 20, 22

Dinesh Thakur Dinesh Thakur (August 8, Delhi) made his film debut in 1971 with Mere Apne and followed it up with Basu Bhattacharya’s Anubhav, Griha Pravesh. He won the Filmfare Best Film Award in 1974 for Rajnigandha which also starred Amol Palekar and Vidya Sinha. He also won Filmfare Best Story Award for story and screenplay of Ghar. Dinesh’s horoscope indicates problems in married life but a very good career in writing. We can expect an outstanding film script before 2015 from him.

Celeb point
Reason to smile
Divya Dutta

I was in Toronto for the PIFFA awards. I went there a week ahead for the rehearsals. What was most special about this trip was that my family went with me. Well, the rehearsals took all my time and whatever little time I had, we went out. So no rest at all!

I was hosting the show with Gurpreet Ghuggi, Sonu Sood and Kapil Sharma. The highlight of the programme was that I was to pay a tribute to the brand ambassador of PIFFA Dharmendra ji. I chose all his songs to dance on, right from Jatt Yamla to Dream Girl!

And then I was making my debut on international stage with Om Puri with a Punjabi version of Tumhari Amrita. The Hindi version has been done by Shabana Azmi and Farooq Sheikh.

There was a lot on my platter on this trip. So on the day of the PIFFA, we were still short of rehearsals! I was tense and exhausted.

And than the show started. I saw Dharamji was totally moved with my tribute. I went off the stage and he actually danced with me on Jatt Yamla Pagla! What a cherished moment! As I brought him up to the stage, he surprised me by giving me an award for the most charming smile. And he said, “This little girl comes from my home town Sahnewal and I was apprehensive of her doing films. But she makes me proud! And he hugged me tight. I wanted that magical moment to freeze! What a standing ovation we got!

Then I quickly changed to host the show. With the usual glitches here and there, it went off superbly well.

As the show ended and Om Puri came up on stage and hugged me and Ghuggi! It was a relief. It had all gone off beautifully well! It was a load off my chest but the next day I had my play to perform about which I will write next time.

As I got out, amidst the frenzy of fans and the bodyguards helping us, I and my family got into the limousine. It was a beautiful dream come true. As I held the trophy for the most charming smile, I thanked god for giving me reasons to smile a little more.

(Dutta is a Bollywood actor)

Chatter box
Host of things

MTV VJ Siddharth Bhardwaj, who rose to fame with Bigg Boss Season 5 on Colors, apparently has been offered daily soaps but he isn’t interested in doing them. He claims he is more inclined towards hosting which is his forte.

So who’s in?

Sagar Pictures is working hard to get their show Ramayan’s cast finalised. The names speculated to star in this new show are Gagan Malik and Neha Sargam as Ram and Sita. While Neelima Parandekar, who was last seen in Dhoondh Legi Manzil Humein will play Kaushalya, Lord Ram’s mother.

Together we act: Ulka Gupta Sister act

Ulka Gupta who got famous due to her talented performance in Zee TV’s Jhansi Ki Rani also has a sister who recently made her debut in Contiloe Telefilms’ Fear Files on Zee. Her acting has been appreciated and now it seems both sisters might be cast together in a project, claim sources. Together we act: Ulka Gupta

Still single

Handsome Karan Tacker has been linked with most actors he has worked with and his fans keep tab on every little detail in his life. Karan seen as Viren in Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hain wants to come clean. He says he is very much single and rumours about his linkups are wrong. Did we hear his female fans breath a sigh of relief!

Hit & no missBAGs FULL: Ronit Roy

After being hit on television with multiple shows, Ronit Roy is being seen in a weekend Sony show Adalat which is a hit too. But being away from regular soaps doesn’t bother him as he has many other projects in hand. Post Udaan, he will now be seen in Deepa Mehta’s Midnight’s Children playing Ahmed Sinai and Sanjay Gupta’s Shootout at Wadala where he plays a cop. BAGs FULL: Ronit Roy

Real to reel

Socially Right: Pooja Gor
Socially Right: Pooja Gor

After creating waves with her shows based on social themes, Star Plus will launch Lakhon Mein Ek, a new series that will be built on the lines of Satyamev Jayate. The show will focus on issues of social consequence. We chat up with Pratigya aka Pooja Gor who will be anchoring the show...

What is the show about?

Lakhon Mein Ek is an amazing compilation of extraordinary tales of people who walk among us, but have risen above us because of their ability to think beyond the rigid norms that the society dictates. I am looking forward to the show going on air. I am sure the stories will touch every individual’s heart the way it has touched mine.

Will you be hosting the show as Pratigya, or will be yourself on the show?

People connect with my character Pratigya.  I am extremely happy that Pratigya is getting this opportunity to go beyond her own show as she is known for standing for herself and society. She has always supported justice.

You are making your anchoring debut, how do you feel?

I am very excited that I am going to be anchoring this show. It is a beginning of a new phase in my life. I will play the sutradhar of the show and bring these inspiring stories to our viewers.

The show is based on the lines of Satyamev Jayate. Can you elaborate?

The programme draws inspiration from real life heroes and builds an episode around the events in their life after adapting it on screen. This is a reality show unlike any other that audiences have watched till now. The person behind the story would be introduced at the end of each episode.

After playing Pratigya for so long does it become monotonous?

Not at all, the character has evolved and I have new experiences on the channel with a show like Lakhon Mein Ek.

Emraan on par with Sallu bhai?

Lucky man: Emraan Hashmi
Lucky man: Emraan Hashmi

Emraan Hashmi is a true-blue popular hero. This is evident now because he is being paid the same amount as Salman Khan to endorse a car battery.

A source says, 'Salman Khan endorses a car battery brand and the rival company has roped in Emraan Hashmi to be their ambassador. They are paying him a huge amount. Emraan appeals to the classes and masses and is identifiable. He connects. His recent films such as Jannat 2 and Murder 2 have been huge hits and even Raaz 3 is expected to become a big hit because of horror, sex, hot heroines, and Emraan. He won immense acclaim for Shanghai. So he can command a fee and get it. He is considered at par with Salman Khan because he is a mass hero and he has a record of hit films.'

Meanwhile, the source adds, 'Shooting for Raaz 3 was like coming full circle for Emraan and Bipasha and Vikram. Emraan was an assistant to Vikram during Raaz which starred Bipasha. He was least interested in the work of an AD because he wanted to become an actor and he would beg and plead Mahesh Bhatt saab to make a movie with him. Then Vikram directed Emraan and Bipasha in Footpath and now all three of them have come a long way since then and have worked together again on Raaz 3.'

Raaz 3 releases in September and the scary promos are on air.

Who will bag Jism 3?

Jism 2 may have got terrible reviews but the money is rolling in. Pooja Bhatt intends to make Jism 3 with not one but two sirens!

Pooja shot the posters of Jism 2 with Nathalia a year ago. Everybody thought it was Sunny Leone but she kept it a secret until now. Nathalia is Brazilian-Indian-Portuguese. She knows she is very sexy and has no inhibitions. She created a buzz with her item song Dana Dan in Ram Gopal Varma's Department and is being heralded as his discovery though Pooja worked with her a year ago. She has done the sheet poster and the waterfall poster.

Pooja says, 'Mahesh Bhatt saab only recently found out that I had shot with Nathalia for the posters. He told me that I should cast her in the next Jism movie. I cannot ignore his suggestions because he knows what he is talking about.'

She continues, 'Jism 3 will have two heroines to make it steamier and it will have wilder fantasies. I cannot say much about the second heroine. It could be Bipasha, it could be Sunny, it could be someone totally new. I like to keep people guessing. We will work fast so the movie could be out next year.'

Meanwhile, we have also heard that Vishesh Films want to move away from dark and bold subjects. Their current line-up with Raaz 3 and a probable Jism 3 is doing nothing for their resolution. They also have romantic musical Aashiqui 2 coming up.

TREND SETTER
Classic cut

Whether one keeps a casual stance or a glamourised one, it does require an effort to get that style. Being fashionable and putting your best foot forward has become a science which is catching up with the youngsters. Let's catch up with the petite fashion consultant Paavi Bakshi for her views—

Your sense of style

It is mainly the attitude or how one carries oneself that defines style. Personally, I like the British style of dressing, having stayed there for some time. It is very neat and not much of frills.

Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories

My Tony Blruch bag and shoes, both brown in colour.

Brand crazy or street pick-ups?

A happy mix of both.

Your style icon would be…….

Sonam kapoor, she really knows how to get 'the look'

Who do you think is the worst dressed celebrity?

Who else but Lady Gaga?

Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous?

Both chic and glamorous.

One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension…

Folks wearing body hugging clothes even though it does not suit them.

Your take on accessories?

To accessorise properly is a must. I have whole lot of accessorie, especially neck pieces.

Given a choice which designer would you be liked to be dressed by-

Only Alexander Mcqueen!

What gives you a high on the confidence level?

When my mirror tells me I am well turned out, I feel confident enough to face anything!

(As told to Poonam Bindra)

Master Chef
Easy bites
Kandla Nijhowne

Summer is a time when we want our food to be light, flavourful, crisp and refreshing. Heavy and spicy curries tend to sit, not only in the stomach but also on our midriff! My all-time favourite treat is skewered, grilled vegetables. It's like dinner on a stick! Plain vegetables get spruced up with a blend of

mild spices that soak into the veggies prior to being grilled. Hung curds lends a delightful creaminess to the grilled chunks. Fresh zucchini and tri-coloured bell peppers are the stars of this preparation. The good news is that they are all easily available at our mandi.

Veggies on a stick

  • 2 yellow or green zucchini
  • 2 packets of whole mushrooms
  • 1/3 cup olive or vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp mixed spice
  • 1 tbsp garlic paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 200 gm hung curds (optional)

Method

Soak 6-8 bamboo skewers in water for a couple of hours. This prevents them from scorching during the grilling process.

Dice the zucchini into 1 inch pieces. Mix the oil, lemon juice, garlic, spices, salt and pepper. Blend in the hung curds if using.

Tip the veggie chunks into a bowl and smother with the marinade.

Alternately thread zucchini, bell peppers and mushrooms on to the skewers.

Grill over live coals or an electric grill till the veggies develop specks of brown. They will be smelling heavenly by now !

Brush some of the remaining mixture over the vegetables as you grill them.

The cooking time depends on how crunchy you like your vegetables.

(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)

it’s rocking
Irish flavour

Finally the sizzling couple, Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, is all set for the release of Ek Tha Tiger. The songs of the movie are good to the ears, especially the track Banjaara, which has an Irish folk touch. The melody of the instrumentals, which is based on Irish folk dance beats, is the hallmark of the song. Glorified with sounds of bagpipes, bouzouki (sort of mandolin), darbuka (hand-drum); it delivers a marching-troop sort of feel with peppy Irish chorus giving it a strong base. We love the video where Katrina dons Scottish attire!

Lovable track

I love Sukhwinder's throaty vocals that blend well with tuneful violin and sounds of footsteps, while Neelesh Mishra's impressive lyrics give it an extra edgy feel.

Nisha Khanna, student, PU

Singer’s magic

YRF's preference for ethnic European music is evident here and this one too lives up to the expectations. Being a Sukhwinder track it has more of a classy feel and the narrative flows are action-packed.

Gursimar Kaur, housewife

Good job

It is very similar in terms of energy and style as we witnessed in the renditions of ‘Singham’ and ‘Dabanngg’ while being encapsulated in an urbane Irish flavour. It is reasonably situational in nature but unlike most situational numbers, it works relatively well.

Vikram Gaur, student, GGDSD College

(As told to Sabia Talwar)

New release
Gangs of Wasseypur 2

Producer: Anurag Kashyap, Sunil Bohra, Guneet Monga

Director: Anurag Kashyap

Gangs of Wasseypur 2 (GOW) is Anurag Kashyap’s most ambitious project which will be screened at the Melbourne International Film Festival on August 12. Anurag’s Gow part one was an extraordinary achievement. The critical success of the first part has helped the filmmaker a lot towards creating great excitement for Gow 2 which opens all over on August 8. The audience is ready to watch part 2. Talking from where the part 1 of Gow ended, the film shot in Benares marks the entry of Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The film will mark a fitting conclusion to the political – revenge thriller on the coal mafia.

Essaying a role which is a complete antithesis of the actor, Nawanzuddin Siddiqui plays Faisal Khan. Tigmanshu Dhulia plays Ramadhir Singh, a powerful character which viewers will never forget. Watch conclusion of this revenge saga.

Humra Qureshi, Richa Chadda, Raj Kumar Yadav plays important characters. Those who have gone through the rushes of Gow 2 predict it a hit.

Dharam Pal

High Spirits
Kiwi Kamikaze
Vineet Mishra

Ingredients

45 ml Havana Club aged white rum

½ fresh kiwi fruit

1/2 of a lime cut in wedges

10 ml lime juice

2 tsp castor sugar

Sprite

Instructions

Muddle kiwi fruit, castor sugar and lime in a cocktail shaker. Add Havana Club aged white rum and ice and shake. Strain mixture in a Collins glass, top it with sprite and garnish with kiwi fruit leaf.

Cocktail joke: You're not drunk if you can lie on the floor and still hang-on.

(Mishra is a Chandigarh-based cocktail jockey)





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 |