|
|
|
|
|
God’s chosen one
At 105, Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan, an eminent classical vocalist, in Chandigarh for a musical concert by SPICMACAY, is going strong and raring to go
At 105, Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan, an indomitable classical vocalist of Gwalior gharana, is as much a testimony to an era gone by as a significant link between the past and the present. So the singer who has seen music move from courts to stage, from informal baithaks to conferences has a lot to say and share. However, as he goes down the memory lane, it's not past that he dwells in. Sure he makes a comparison between musical scenarios back then and now. His first take is on disciples of today who want to become singers overnight and are looking for instant success. In sharp contrast from the days when it took him 22 years, only to learn under the tutelage of his father and uncle. Actually, to begin with he wasn't even considered good enough for carrying on the musical parampara of his family where the tradition deems that the son be better than the father or at least be his equal. But one day while working as an apprentice with a tailor, he felt that singing and singing alone had to be his muse. Today as he occupies a singular place in the musical world, representing a gharana that owes its lineage to Mian Tansen, he says, "Gwalior gharana is best known for its full throated voice, lyrical clarity, bol taan, bol behlaava and much more." And all these technical nuances he tries to imbibe among his disciples at the ITC Sangeet Research Akademy (SRA) at Kolkata. To his disciples spread all over the world, his first lesson always is, "Learn to respect your elders. Before stepping into the world of classical music get your taalim in tehjeeb and tameez right." Interestingly, while he might have reservations on Gen Next disciples and exponents of today many of whom he feels ape more than create, he strongly believes that the tribe of music connoisseurs has increased manifold. In fact, he recalls an incident of 1938 when Ustad Faiyaz Khan was heckled the moment he began his classical concert and was asked to sing a ghazal instead. Those were also the days, he adds, when few women from high caste families were allowed to learn music. To create interest among such disenchanted souls, he gave musical concerts for free and later set a musical school too in Raibareilly. Currently associated with ITC SRA in the capacity of a guru, he gives full marks to the academy, particularly to its director Ravi Mathur for honing upcoming talent. Interestingly, Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan joined SRA at the ripe age of 87 which is why his admirers, like celebrated vocalist, Ajoy Chakrabarty proclaim, "There is no question of Khan Sahib's retirement." Actively singing (his itinerary is packed till November) at an age when others can't even sit straight, he thanks almighty for blessing him with energy, vigour and verve. Recipient of honours like Sangeet Natak Academy Award, the ITC award and the Kashi Swar Ganga Award, the powers that may not have considered it fit to confer Padma Shri on him, for him God's benediction is the ultimate award and reward. nonika@tribunemail.com
|
|
Confessions of a beautiful mind
National Award winning independent film-maker Amlan Dutta talks about his
latest film Bom and his perception of the world around
"I went to Malana to explore the oldest democracy and world's best hashish and returned with two adopted kids." This 'glaring' confession of three times National Award winning independent filmmaker, Amlan Dutta brings to the fore not only his conscious driven art, also his vision that goes much beyond the lens. 'Bom aka One Day Ahead of Democracy, a story of thousands of years old village, Malana near Kullu, for which Amlan won his third national award this year, is a difficult film to watch and understand and it is so because there is no opulence and glamour in his projection. "It can't come because that is precisely the reason I chose to become an independent film-maker despite having a slew of difficulties and pain of harsh realities," says 41-year-old Kolkota born FTII graduate, in Chandigarh to screen his latest award winning movie, Bom, on the last day of the local film and documentary festival. He says, "I was happy producing corporate films showing the rosy side of development to the world but a turn came about seven years ago when I decided to do I wanted to- follow the ethics and aesthetics of my cinematography." His decision to become an independent filmmaker has not only given a fillip to cutting edge filmmaking in India but also shows how many complex issues can be addressed aesthetically. One of his first films as a producer, The chronicle of an Amnesiac, based on poetic life of Kolkata, won him a special jury award in 2007, National Film Awards and then in 2009, he won an award for the Best Environment Film, for the movie, In For Motion. This movie Bom, which won him this years' National Award for the Best Ethnographic/ Anthropological Film, however, has taken him beyond his camera and also somewhere in the middle of the conflict of modern world. Further, has even disturbed a place like Malana, a village which was isolated from the outside civilisation for thousands of years and had a divine harmony with nature and a unique model of democracy of consensus. He says, "Many villagers told me that even till 40 years before, the place had no connection with the rest of the world. They produced everything on their own. But its sad story is no different from that of development in our country." He adds, "In the seventies, came some white men who taught them how to rub the crème and drew them into hashish trade. Free flow of money came and it polluted everything. This movie is my effort of showing their side of story, who still wish to go back to their past and discover their self belief and inclusive system of democracy. This idea still eludes India even after 65 years of independence." The movie stops with an open debate for its viewers but Amlan's journey is still on He has been helping many villagers take to alternative practices, so that their dependence on hash trade goes down. He has also adopted two kids of a jailed mother. There are now issues of polluting the environment in the name of power plants in the village that he has been fighting for. He also advocates the de-criminalsation of cannabis, since he feels that it has just given power to agencies that are manipulating the whole situation Ask him his next movie? This is what the crisis of three-time national award winner filmmaker is. "I don't have the money to work for my next project. My international co-productions have remained topsy-turvy. BBC was the co-producer for In For Motion, but it backed out in 2008 due to recession factor." National awards, he says, are fine but independent filmmakers need to be given prime time slots and given a lot of respect. I am sure there are people who love to watch the work of independent film-makers, signs off Amlan.
|
|
Money makes the Martin go
British sports car, Aston Martin unveils in Chandigarh, raising the luxury bar of the city
You can be happy on the streets of a bustling city or be carving through the countryside. How does it matter when it's Aston Martin? More than the thoroughbred British luxury sports tag, it's the price tag that's imposing. And at Rs. 3.85 crore, we don't know whether it's ultra exclusive or plain aspirational. After all it's the James Bond car! At the unveiling of Aston Martin's Vanquish at JW Marriott, the company's men kept a stern eye from a distance, while you can hover around, click, touch, feel but there's only a limit to the liberties you can take with the Vanquish. Their reasons for being here are not hard to guess. "After Delhi, Chandigarh and Punjab are our biggest markets," shares Sanjeev Hazari, the director, while sharing the specifications, "It's powered by a 6.0 litre, V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces a peak power of 565bhp at 6750RPM and generates a peak torque of 620 Nm at 5500rpm." For the speed enthusiasts, the car touches 0-100 in 4.1 seconds with a top speed of 295 kmph. He adds, "It's an ultra luxury sports car and can be driven to work everyday." At its price tag, though we doubt that but the company's officials are confident of the targets. "At the moment, we are bang on target, though we are not looking at numbers right now." Which is precisely the reason; they will be serving from Delhi itself and won't have an outlet in the city. "It's not like we have to go and chase the customers, in fact, they come and choose us. Because it is meant for people who love cars and love to drive themselves." The pearly white exteriors and the insides can be customised. "It's a hand built car and made to order.”
manpriya@tribunemail.com
|
||
|
Astro turf
ARIES: Your card suggests that extra money is likely to come from somewhere. You will start off in a confident, optimistic mood. Life is not likely to run according to plan. Dreams, hopes and wishes are up for review. Tarot message: Take your time before reacting.
Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 40 TAURUS: There is breathing space now to get your act together and clear your mind. Stay focussed on business because that will pay dividends. Get more rest. You can expect visitors in the evening. Tarot message: New offers must be put on hold as their outcome is uncertain. Lucky colour: Creamy white. Magic number: 29 GEMINI: Reckless spending will be a cause of regret. So, no matter how tempting or urgent the purchase may be, think twice before pulling out your credit card. You need to spend more time on repair work. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains. Don’t be careless. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 52 CANCER: You might have sufficient funds but stick to window shopping. Arrangements you made to meet with friends can change at the last moment. A gathering with relatives can be fun. Tarot message: Minor official pin pricks should be ignored. Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 26 LEO: You will enjoy tidying up and sorting all your paper work into coherent order which may involve paying bills or arranging for extra credit. Try to be true to your feelings. Tarot message: You can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 32 VIRGO: This can be the calm before the storm. Do not bottle up emotions and become agitated. Influential people will like your style. Health issues should be treated right away and not put. Tarot message: Look at the overall cost of things and try to balance your budget. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 42 LIBRA: Your personal skills and style of working are likely to shine out and noticed by people. A financial matter that has been delayed should be taken up now. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 28 SCORPIO: Lots of secrets and undercover scenarios can make for an interesting day. Stimulating and thought provoking ideas will be in abundance. Business will tick over smoothly enough. Tarot message: Take one step at a time and avoid being over anxious. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 64 SAGITTARIUS: It’s a day when dreams come true. It may seem an exaggerated but if you believe in something with enough heart and hope, it just might happen. Tarot message: You will not get away with wrongful doings, so don't even try. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 30 CAPRICORN: You are in an ideal job and you are showing the world just how capable you are. Health problems or chronic conditions show obvious signs of improvement. Your spouse is likely to be erratic. Tarot message: There are times in a relationship when it is wiser to be silent. Lucky colour: Silver grey. Magic number: 27 AQUARIUS: Your card reveals that you are noted for your resiliency. Romance takes a turn for the better. Keep extra cash in hand to cope with additional expenses. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 63 PISCES: You appear to need clarity and openness in financial or business matters. It is important that you get expert advice to help you sort out the problem. Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by not exploiting a contact, even if it is from your past. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 51 |
||
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is August 20...
Some unhappiness is essential only then you realise the value of happiness. You will make good money, but try not to let it slip through your fingers. Spending time with children will be important. Personal relationship may break due to difference of opinions. Working people will find the year very promising. Financial income will be smooth. Personal life may involve problems. Digestive ailments are possible; take care. Meditation and self-realisation will prove to be beneficial. Property deals will materialise and bring fabulous gains. A perfect time to fix up something exciting and entertaining with friends. Romance rules your heart and mind. If you run from a situation, it will follow you in the worst possible way. You've got the right energy now to take the initiative and sort out issues. You will be able to count on excellent occasions for new contacts and collaboration. Be diplomatic! You can beat the odds. Do not allow negative thinkers to talk you into quitting before you get your chance. The pace may be slow for you to accomplish a few things but you may find your pace pick up a great deal later. A rather challenging event may have leave you struggling for patience. Focus on results rather than distractions.You will attain success in financial matters. If you wish to invest your money in the stock market you should do so upon your own judgment and not rely on others. Your friends might come to your rescue in case of a financial crises. Don’t hesitate to accept whatever they offer. Friends are most helpful especially in career networking. Libra, Gemini, Aries and Leo rank most cooperative while Cancer, Virgo or Taurus may not be of much help. Mood: Aggressive but happy Compatible signs: Leo, Sagittarius Lucky colours: Pink, magenta Lucky days: Friday. Lucky numbers: 3, 13, 14, 40
|
||
Break free with Shweta
She is sweet, cute and sensible and has got her priorities right. The dazzling Shweta Kawaatra reveals her mantras of chilling out and relaxing during her breaks. Though she loves working, she enjoys her breaks equally well. Read on. Yoga
I enjoy doing yoga and ensure that I find time to do it at least three or four times a week for an hour. It totally relaxes me and channelises my energies well. Among workout, I also enjoy weights and cardio. I try to bring in variation in workout or it can get boring. I also get some spa treatments every week, be it a pedicure, body, foot or head massage. Reading
My love affair with books began early in life and today I need to read some pages before I sleep, no matter how tired I am. I love stacking up on books to read later in my leisure time. I also enjoy reading in between shots while shooting if I can. I have read all sorts of books be it fiction, non-fiction or philosophical. I also watch a lot of movies with friends and family. Cooking
I love food and I can cook. Preparing a meal for my husband Manav always feels good. He too enjoys eating the food I prepare. We both love experimenting, so we try new recipes and make our own combinations. He loves non-vegetarian dishes the most but we love eating out too. Painting
I love painting and do it when I can these days. I also love to travel and Manav too enjoys it so we head to some quiet place every few months. I have been to many destinations in India and abroad. Chilling at home
I cherish the time Manav and I get at home. Mostly we are working, so enjoying time at home is a great option as well.
Twist in store
A divine experience
Sara Khan and Ashmit Patel are busy shooting in Khatu Shyam near Jaipur for Sawaariya Khatushyam ji ki Amargatha. The controversial jodi from Bigg Boss has just witnessed the positive side and claims that the movie and the location have been special for them. Shakti Kapoor and Mukesh Khanna also play a vital role in the film and various miracles of the pilgrimage site have been highlighted in the film. Ashmit is quite excited about the film and usually, who grabs headlines for all the wrong reasons claims that Khatu Shyam has brought a positive change in him. “The film is very close to me and I am enjoying it. The place and Khatu Shyam makes me feel so blessed. I would love to come back here again,” says Ashmit. “It’s such a great feeling to be here. I have noticed some kind of change in me when I came here. I had heard a lot about this place,” claims Sara Khan. It’s the biggest film ever made on Khatu Shyam and the producer is leaving no stone unturned to make the film reach all.
Bhojpuri superstar Ravi Kishan, who was eliminated from dance reality show, Jhalak Dikhla Jaa says, he came out as an enriched person. He took part in the show for his daughter and he’s glad he could come this far.
The lucky one
Putting an end to all the speculations, actor Rakesh Vashisht has been finalised to play the male protagonist opposite Aamna Sharif, who is making a comeback on television with Sony Entertainment Television’s next big fiction show Honge Judaa Na Hum. Rumours doing the rounds were that discussions and debates
|
||
|
Find your peace of mind
Renee Singh Are you a Perfectionist? Perfectionism is a trait that can rob you of your peace of mind, enjoyment of life and self esteem. Stress of course is a common trait with all of us. There are two kinds of people who stress the most, the perfectionists and the high achievers. They are probably mostly unaware of their own response to their attitude. But as I have perceived being a perfectionist is pretty much unlike being a high achiever and can drive you up the wall. Though it's a process that takes time but shedding the process of perfectionism can greatly decrease the level of stress you feel on a daily basis. Perfectionists of course like to believe they are merely high achievers but there are key differences between the two. These differences are important as perfectionists tend to experience more stress. Traits of Perfection All or nothing thinking
Perfectionists like high achievers tend to set high goals and try to work hard to push towards them. But there is a difference of attitude, whereas a high achiever takes pride in his achievements and is supportive of others a perfectionist tends to spot tiny mistakes and imperfections in his work and in others work too. Perfectionists make themselves unhappy doing this. Unrealistic standards
Perfectionists are mostly unreasonable in their goal setting. They mainly set their goals very high and spend their whole lives in a struggle to get there. High achievers enjoy the process of chasing the goal. Perfectionists sometimes set their initial goals so high that they are almost unreasonable. High achievers tend to have achievable and more realistic goals. Push vs pull
Perfectionists are pushed towards their goal by a fear of not reaching them, they see anything less than a perfectly met goal as a failure. High achievers get pulled towards their goal by a desire to achieve them and are happy in their effort towards them. Unmet goals
Perfectionists are less happy and wallow in self pity and negative feelings when things go wrong. Critical eye
Perfectionists are far more critical of themselves than others and tend to negate themselves far more. Fear of failure
Perfectionists are more scared to fail. They place too much stock on results and become disappointed in anything less than perfection. Perfectionists have a habit of setting goals of unreasonable excellence with no learning curve. These goals create unrealistic problems by being so rigidly demanding and leaving little room for error. Having been a perfectionist since my childhood, I can well understand what one goes through. I decided to set myself free of my own limiting self imposed standards and test new waters with a free mind. Here are some important steps you can take to maintain a healthier attitude. Be aware
Jot down your thoughts as they flit through your mind at night while you have some time to yourself. Journal about your feelings and thoughts. See the positive
Alter self talk
The critical voice in your head that keeps telling you negative things about you needs to be stopped. Negative self talk erodes your self esteem. Change your self talk and change your life Take baby steps
Set small goals and reward yourself when you achieve them. Learn to handle criticism. Constructive criticism helps you to improve. Enjoy the process
Enjoy the process of chasing the goal. Appreciate your life and your work… (Singh is a Chandigarh based
psychotherapist)
|
||
Dressed to the nines
To get that 'suave' look, young men of today spare no effort to wear the latest. They also know how to dress for the occasion — classy for formal occasions and a studied casual look for informal ones. Handsome and smart doctors have been the center of many a romantic story. Let's see what our handsome Dr Rajdeep Singh Chhina has to say about fashion: Your sense of style… Immaculately dressed for formal occasions is the look for me. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… A watch from Bvlgari. Brand crazy or street pick ups? Brands any time, especially for their fit and not for any snob value. Your style icon would be… If I can pick three then they are — Andy Roddick, Christiano Ronaldo and Tiger Woods. Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? Tusshar Kapoor for sure! Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Sporty, no doubt. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… Coloured hair and funky hairstyles for both men and women bug me. Your take on accessories? I go for no other accessories but for classy watches and belts. No bracelets for me! Given a choice which designer would you be liked to be dressed by? Armani is the best. What gives you a high on the confidence level? When I feel I am dressed up properly and conversing appropriately, I feel confident! More than dressing up, I think what matters is the way you conduct yourself. As told to Poonam Bindra
|
||
|
PC’s a helping hand
In the latest development, Priyanka Chopra has come forward to ensure the smooth release of K C Bokadia’s Deewana Main Deewana. Priyanka has apparently shot a special item song for Bokadia’s film. The song a new adaptation of the popular Punjabi-folk number Kala doriya was freshly recorded in Sundhi Chauhan and Ila Arun’s voice.
Confirming these developments the grateful producer K C Bakadia says, “God has been kind. Every producer goes through ups and downs. Priyanka Chopra is a gem of an artiste. She has offered to help in every way possible. You mark my words Kala doriya would do to Priyanka’s reputation as a dancer what the song Gori hai kalaiyan in my film Aaj Ka Arjun did for Jaya Prada.” Reminiscing about the ups and downs in his career Bokadia says, “When I made Pyar Jhukta Nahin with Mithun Chakraborty distributors discouraged m e saying he was a disco-dancer and an action hero. I stuck to my guns and signed him in a romantic role. The film ran for 50 weeks. I completed Teri Meherbaniyan in threee months. It had a dog playing the lead. I braved competition from Ramesh Sippy’s Sagar. My film was a super-hit. So what if Deewana Main Deewana is delayed? “I’ve a gut feeling it would revive Govinda’s career and take Priyanka to another level.” Dropping his earlier plans of releasing his film alongside Anurag Basu’s Barfi Bokadia plans to release his film on September 28. “I know my product. I know it’s potential. I am sure it will find an audience.”
|
||
|
Ram’s short and stirring act
Ram is doing a movie which will have a couple of short stories, one of which will be directed by film-maker Mira Nair; acclaimed for movies such as Monsoon Wedding and The Namesake. “I have been a huge admirer of Mira Nair’s work for as long as I can remember and it truly is a dream come true to be working with her again after Monsoon Wedding,” says Ram. The actor who spends most of his time shuttling between studios to match grueling schedules of his leading daily soap with select movies that he portrays key roles in, is scheduled to begin shooting with Nair this week itself. For the record, Nair has directed ten narrative
feature films as well as several short films and documentaries. Her work has been recognised by the Cannes Film Festival, the Venice Film Festival, the Emmy Awards and
the Golden Globes, among others. Earlier, she has also used the profits of her Oscar-nominated debut movie Salaam Bombay! to create the Salaam Baalak Trust for India’s street children.
|
||
She wanted to visit Las Vegas ever since she was a child. Finally, Minissha Lamba's dream has come true. “My best friend Ridhima (not Ranbir Kapoor's sister) and I have just landed here. It's so beautiful. We are going to visit all the interesting places. And we will go clubbing. We are out to have a blast,” she said. It is learnt Minissha left for Los Angeles after finishing work on Shirish Kunder's Joker. She attended the Independence Day Parade that is annually held by Indians living there. Ridhima joined her and they decided to couple together their Las Vegas holiday as well. The duo is back in Mumbai soon. About the parade, Minissha said, “The environment was charged with liveliness, with so many people waving the Indian tricolour. It was one of the best parades I have seen in my life.”
|
|
| 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 | |
Randeep Singh Hooda
(August 20, 1976 Daseya, Rohtak) before his film debut in Monsoon Wedding he peeled onions in a Chinese restaurant and drove taxis for two years. In 2000, he returned to India and got a job in the marketing department of an airline and was acting in stage theatres. His film career will take off properly in 2015 as per stars.
While Shahswat’s ( Aditya Kapadia) marriage is happening in Hat's Off Productions show, Ek Doosre Se Karte Hain Pyaar Hum on Star Plus, in the upcoming episodes, a new entry will bring an exciting twist. Pooja Pihal, aka Shravani of Pavitra Rishta, will enter the show and stop the wedding. She will claim to be Shahswat’s wife.
Exit on a happy note
were on as to which telly actor would be paired opposite Aamna Sharif in the show. If gossip was to be believed noted names from the TV industry like Eijaz Khan to Aamir Ali and even Rajeev Khandelwal were being considered. But recently Aamna Sharif along with Rakesh was spotted shooting for the promo of the show at Bandra in Mumbai, thereby putting an end to all speculations. 
Television superstar Ram Kapoor is the heartthrob of millions. But what the Bade Achhe Lagte Hain actor is super excited about these days is a film he has just
signed!
