|
|
|
|
|
Heart’s calling
Hobbies require a certain level of passion and though most people want to pursue one, the problem is we often push those passions aside in the name of 'professional growth'. There are hardly any people who nurture their hobbies more than their vocation. But exceptions are always there and this is where such people make a difference in their life. We feature some of them.
Matter of heart
You absolutely do not need a stethoscope to know what's in his heart. City-based cardiologist Dr Jaideep Singh Chadha is one of the few multi-talented people for whom life is not only about syringes and syrups, but he has a flair for writing (he has penned six novels and received the Vijay Rattan award), is a golfer and is presently acting as a management guru — giving lectures at corporate houses, schools and colleges on life management (his latest passion). "Life is not only about making a living, but living it to the fullest. I always think of social causes and do things accordingly. My writing too has been on social things like my book, Please mom! This is all about the youth of today. They think they have seen it all, but I think the need of the hour is to remind them that life today is not just limited to their experiences. There is much more beyond it," he says. On his present passion, he adds, "Today's young guns are running after professional growth and money, not realising that they are losing the balance of life. They are not realising that the life-span is decreasing, while the stress level is increasing. And then, you have the early onset of hypertension, diabetes, depression; what I am doing now is bringing them closer to reality and suggesting them ways to manage work as well as life." Well, who says work is worship? There are things beyond work that can make you a better human being! Guns 'n' thorns
For Major General (retd) (Additional Surveyor General) Bewli, life has not only been a battle ground but a bed of greens. And he has sure made a name for himself in this field. "Apart from being an Army man, I always had a passion for plants and drift woods. Flowering plants attract all, but cactus and bonsai was my calling. I started growing cacti in 1994 and bonsai in the year 2000; right now I have some 400 plus cacti in my garden and 350 bonsais. I have won many accolades for my achievement." This is not all; he also has a passion for driftwood and has held solo exhibitions for his art. Wood work A teacher (counsellor at Carmel Convent) by profession and furniture designer by passion, Punita Singh has worked her way up with her fervour for wood-work. "It's a hobby that developed into a passion some eight years back," says Punita. She adds, "I design colonial furniture and it was after I made furniture for my house that people asked me to design for them. My workmanship spread by word of mouth and now I do it on a regular basis. I have a workshop in Phase III, Mohali, in the name of Wood Wonderz and it is here that I design my furniture. However, I haven't made it a business and it is still a passion for me."
|
|
Cop story
Now it’s comedy — Punjabi cinema’s latest fascination. The premier show of Ajj De Ranjhe in Chandigarh on Thursday saw the actors and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal enjoying the movie.
Ajj De Ranjhe shows police-public relationship in a different light. The movie stars Gurpreet Ghuggi, Kimi Verma, Aman Dhaliwal, Gurleen Chopra, Deep Dhillon, Rana Ranbir and Darshan Aulakh. If you had an image about Punjab Police, well with Ajj De Ranjhe you might find something cheerful and good about them as well. Gurpreet Ghuggi make’s you fall in love with his all-new romantic streak. Coming from Manmohan Singh you can expect great camera angles. If you find it not so loaded with laughter this could be because Punjabi cinema is giving us a good dose of it already. jasmine@tribunemail.com
|
|
The perfect cut
Theatre remains Dolly Ahluwalia Tewari’s first love, although glamour and recognition has come her way through television and films. An actor as well as a famous costume designer, Dolly has made her mark in a field not much known or respected, at least when she started. It’s sheer grit that led her to international projects and fame. She places much of the credit of her success to the training she received at the National School of Drama. “My first project was The Making of Gandhi in which I was some 10th or 15th assistant,” says Dolly, who could well relate to where her true calling was in her very first project. Once she started, success was almost instant. The Burning Train was her first independent venture, which was an Indo-Canadian film that got her a lot of accolades. A National Award, Filmfare Award and IIFA in Costume Designing and films such as Bandit Queen, Water, The Blue Umbrella, Omkara, Partition, Love Aaj Kal and Kaminey: The Scoundrels to her credit, she has also made a mark as an actor (her recent hit movie being Vicky Donor). “I have made a promise to myself that I will quit the day I feel slightly irritated. But the faith of directors, such as Deepa Mehta, Imtiaz Ali, Vishal Bhardwaj and Pankaj Kapur, in me has made me love each minute of work.” Dolly, who loves cooking, listening to Indian classical music and reading in her free time, and also Facebooking to share the latest gossip, shares her success mantras. Honesty pays Honesty is basic, be it any profession. One needs to be honest in all walks of life and profession. If I don’t relate to a character, how can I give it the look? Turning ‘a very modern’ Lisa Ray into a widow or muscular John Abraham into a Bengali Babu (I actually taught him on how to tie a dhoti) can happen only if I am completely honest towards my work. Visualise everything Observation and visualisation are the keys to being a successful costume designer. Observing each day, each thing; how a tree down the road looks different each new day or how I arrange these pebbles on my table. There might be thousands of types of beggars, what do I choose from each of them to dress somebody in my film. And, of course, being in touch with who is wearing what, the latest in the market — the styles or the fabrics — to make my characters real. Creative vein The demands of being a costume designer are challenging and deadlines sudden. Even if I just have plastic paper, I should be able to craft a costume out of it. Turning Kareena from the kinds of looks she carried in movies like 36 Chinatown to a simple village belle in Omkara or turning Sri lanka to India for Midnight’s Children can happen only with creativity. Be confident I am talking strictly of self-confidence and not over-confidence. If confidence takes you forward, over-confidence stalls and stagnates. You need to know all the ‘whys’ in life. Saif was baffled to play a Shakespearean character in Omkara dressed in khadi kurta or kambal (blanket). I took stuff to him, made him wear it and soon Saif got convinced for that successful Langra Tyagi look. Team work I believe in sharing with a lot not only with my director and actors, but also assistants as well as others who are involved. The vision can’t be transferred to reality if I don’t talk to my tailors. Being open to opinions makes you flourish. mona@tribunemail.com |
||||||||||||
|
Bill of contention
These are a set of rules that are conveniently sitting where we left. Save for a slight shift in the chair, there have been no reports of flouting them at large. A romantic date, candle-lit table, generously displayed chivalry—dating rules which were essentially created as an effort (sometimes desperate) to woo one, still stick to the basics. Some ‘modern’ day women though have gone out to finance a date but the words ‘let’s Dutch’ is a big ‘no-on’ an official date. Or do we have dating couples breaking the archaic rules? Sahil Anand, starring in Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year, has taken to the dating ways in Mumbai. He laughs remembering how back in Chandigarh it was mandatory for the guys going on a date to settle the entire bill. “Girls wouldn’t even think of paying up. In Mumbai, however, there is no such rule that men only should pay on a date. Girls insist on paying most of the times, even suggesting to go Dutch,” he says. How much of a help this sounds for the guys? One, they don’t have to keep checking their wallet, no chances of going broke if the lady decides to go in for a four-course meal, and lastly opening avenues for many more dates! Punjabi actor Kartar Cheema, whose upcoming movie Sarsa opposite Gul Panag is already creating ripples, breaks into a throaty laughter. “Time has changed now and so have the dating rules. Besides, it is also about categorisation. On a casual date where none of the two are really looking forward to impress each other, Dutch is an accepted gesture. But if it is a serious kind of formal date where you want to impress the other person, then it is wise for the guy to foot the bill,” he adds. Kartar feels it is okay if things are the other way round. “It doesn’t make much of a difference if the girl pays the bill. I would be more than happy. There are no hang-ups about paying bill on a date now.” As far as etiquettes are concerned, going Dutch on a date is not accepted by all. Ask the girlies around, in their hearts of heart want the man to pay the bill. Most girls sometimes don’t even volunteer or pretend to pay. But some guys make it an ego issue. Chivalry is the name of the game here. Kushal Tandon, who plays Viraat on Star Plus’s Ek Hazaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, says that he would never go Dutch on a date. “It is below my dignity. If a girl who is close to me wants to treat me on some occasion then it’s fine, else I would never let her pay.” Well, if the man is ready to shell out the bill, then who is complaining? Harkirat Kaur Dhillon, a model from Punjab, is clear on the paying issue. “If I want to go on a date with the guy again, I wouldn’t mind paying. But if I see the meeting end then and there, it is better than he foots the bill. Besides, girls and boys keep meeting for dates, how much will a guy spend? She comes up with one more consideration, “If the girl invites the boy, then she should pay and vice-versa. I don’t mind splitting the bill, aren’t we not talking about equal rights here!”
|
||||||||||||
|
Rapid strides
A quick neat drive from Krishna Automotive, Chandigarh to Parwanoo on the machine gives a ‘slight’ insight of the machine. Launched almost a few months back, Skoda Rapid in diesel and petrol variants offers a different feel. A five speed manual box, a good grip on the road, the machine is comfort if you don’t get down to comparisons. The new model definitely carries the Skoda lineage with appreciable leg room and boot space. An anti-lock braking system, anti- pinch window system, controlled central locking and two airbags, this is one sedan you have to be in love with its lineage if you want to enjoy the new model.
|
||||||||||||
|
Awadhi ahoy!
As you enter KC Royal Park, a gush of exotic aroma of spices greets you and the mood for sumptuous royal food is set. The hotel is rolling out some typically popular kebabs and biryani for a food festival. Celebrity Chef Haleem Qurashi has all the recipes and ingredients, which go into his mouth-watering delicacies, up his sleeve. He talks about his love for food.
“Humare dada pardada nawabon ke khansama the,” says the chef, outlining that his knowledge in Awadhi food is part of his heritage. Running a restaurant of his own in Lucknow, his 14 years of experience in the kitchen talks louder than words. “These days, people don’t have too much time for cooking and an essential component of cooking Awadhi food is preparing it on a slow fire,” he says. As he shares details of his delicacies; we are served arvi anjeer kebab. Focusing on what brings him back to Chandigarh, the response is plain and simple. “Punjabis have great understanding of food. I have been coming back and forth for several private parties and gatherings. So, this is a good idea,” he says. As more and more foreigners are taking a liking to Indian food, an increasing number of Indians are going continental and trying out the likes of Moroccan, Portuguese and Mexican food. “That is true, but the fact is that each state in India has its distinctive flavour. Sadly, quite a few epicurean delights are dying,” he says, explain why the Awadhi food festival will do well. Brining some rather strange sounding dishes, his mirch ka halwa and pyaaz aur lasuni kheer are more popular than anything else. The fest does not only bring a gastronomic treat for the non-vegetarians but also has an equally appealing treat for vegetarians. It offers rampuri biryani, khaas murg biryani, nafees samak korma and malihabadi taheri pulao. (On till September 16)
|
||||||||||||
|
Of rhythm & repetition
Manpriya Singh
It’s the easiest music to face. What you heard in the hotel lobby you last went to, is perhaps the best description of lounge. Like someone simply put it, it’s a mood music! The music that remains most played at hotel lobbies, spas, lounges and boutiques. The range of lounge encompasses melody influenced instrumentals, modern electrica with a strong hint of jazz. The earliest type of lounge music was called nothing more than light music and appeared only in 1920s and 1930s. While the sound ranges from electronica to jazz, but at the end of the day, it’s all lounge! Hall of fame It’s a genre where top ten lounge albums are recalled more easily than the top ten lounge artistes. While creating the perfect lounge play-list is a matter of seconds, naming the best artistes remains a task. The memorable of the lot are best described as various artistes. Buddha Bar makes to the most heard and preferred lounge CDs. Then there’s Hostel Costes collection, which is a perfect way to begin the lounge music play-list. There’s a list of the best artistes for a slower tempo and all together different one for a slightly higher paced tempo. The commercial lovers will vouch for Lounge Safari. There will never be a unanimous list of great lounge artistes but the likes of European electronic artiste, Paul Kalkbrenner, Bavarian DJ Tom Craft, DJ Shah from Germany, are some of the best selling lounge artistes from among countless, the world over. Youngster’s take While the likes of rap music or country music top the favourite list, nobody ever answers to lounge. As one of the blog goes, “Whenever I say, I like lounge music, people go blank and say ‘is it like elevator music?’ There is a reason why they play soft instruments with a repetitive harmony while you sink into a jacuzzi. “It’s relaxing and moreover it is the perfect music to create an ambience,” opines Sarvdeep Dhillon, a graduate from MCM College. She adds, “There is so much you can do with lounge music, create an ambience of being by a beach or in a resort or the feeling of getting a massage. It’s really powerful.” Shares Abhimanyu Dogra, bass guitarist with a city-based band, “I feel our own flute is the perfect answer to western lounge music. The ambience and rhythm it creates, is addictive.” He adds, “Lounge music still is considered a part of the world music and yet to achieve a separate genre status. One needs to search and download favourite tunes. But it is worth the effort.” Play a little lounge and let the music bring in silence. manpriya@tribunemail.com
|
||||||||||||
|
SOS for trees
Satish Narula
At this time when there are a few friends of trees, it is very important to grow new plants. But it is all the more important to know the reasons and protect them from decline. A little care and there is every possibility of prolonging tree life. The first query that comes to mind—who is the enemy of plants? Are the natural factors the only cause? No, the human factor is equally contributing. In cities, the development is imminent and there are no two opinions about it. Expansion of roads and coming up of buildings is a compulsion. But the problem arises when the work is done without giving much thought to the green belt. Even where the trees and roots can be saved with a little shift of planning, no one cares. The roots of even healthy trees are also damaged due to such activities. In fact, at many places the trees were removed when even a slight shift in alignment could have saved them. Even where there is no need, the insensitive operators of machinery damage the roots that become the breeding ground for insects and pests and diseases weakening the anchorage. Such trees are subjected to potential danger of falling during the monsoon or due to high wind. Another big reason is unmindful creation of paver blocks. There is no capture of rain water due to concretisation which is subjected to run off. There is compaction of soil below. The hard surface above also leads to the weakening or burning of thin feeder roots below which die either because of starvation, for want of water or even due to intense heat captured by the concrete. Giving proper space under the tree could make a considerable difference prolonging tree life. Removal of tree bark and cutting of tree limbs is the damage inflicted by some of the residents who are either ignorant of the consequences or have no consideration and put their self-interest before. One can educate those who are ignorant but not those who are doing it for self-interests. Consumption of the tree parts (leaves, roots, bark flowers, buds etc) of such roadside trees could lead to serious heart, brain of kidney ailments as these trees are exposed to dangerous pollutants. Now the question is what legacy are we passing on to our coming generations? Leaving garbage under the trees and ultimately burning the leaves, grass etc are other very damaging reasons. Is it too much of an exercise to stop it? (Narula is a senior PAU horticulturist)
|
||||||||||||
|
Capturing the world Rana Gurtej brings his solo photography exhibition to Books and Brew
One walk into Books and Brew, Sector 38 and you get transported to Ladakh, walk across Europe and travel through Patiala. Bringing together 14 frames from the last few years, 20-year-old Rana Gurtej is a youngster with an exceptional talent. Each of his pictures tell a story. Currently a student of University Institute of Legal Studies, the young lad talks about his journey with the camera. “It was only in Class X that I participated in the Geofest, organised in Lucknow,” he says. For an amateur photographer to win the third prize among 72 participants was no child’s play. It was then that he got his first professional camera and started interacting with like-minded professionals on Facebook. Constantly upgrading himself with the latest, he resorts to blogs and magazines for better understanding. Still holding his film camera close to his heart, he believes that the results from the good old film cameras were better than the current digitalised versions. “At that point, it was not possible to see the results immediately. That is where the difference has come in today,” he says. Planning to take up a course soon, his first solo is a surety that his camera will have a story of its own to share. — TNS
|
||||||||||||
|
It’s all about money, honey!
Ileana D’ Cruz believes that one who works hard in the industry deserves to have a good bank balance
Ileana D' Cruz, who makes her Hindi film debut with Barfi! is considered the highest paid actress in the southern film industry and says she gets what she deserves. "I can't comment on that as I have not seen anyone else's paychecks," said Ileana. "All I can say is I have worked really hard for six years down south and the journey has not been easy for me, so I feel what I get paid, I completely deserve that. Whenever I read such news I enjoy all the attention," said the actress, who makes her Hindi film debut with Barfi!. "I think any actor would be lying if they say money doesn't matter and it's only the experience that they enjoyed the most. I do care about money and want to make more. I do respect my work and people want to pay me more for my work. It is flattering but it's a huge responsibility to pull off a character," she added. The 24-year-old actress ventured into movies in 2006 with Telugu film Devadasu and has since worked in many Telugu and Tamil films. Though Ileana admits she is proud to be associated with the southern film industry, right now her priority is Bollywood. "I don't plan anything and I didn't even expect Barfi! to come my way. I have done lot of films down south and I am proud to be associated with them. If I get good offers than I might think of doing some more south films but right now my priority is Bollywood," she said. Directed by Anurag Basu, Barfi! is slated for a September 14 release and she has teamed up with Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra in it. Ileana has no qualms in donning a bikini for any film, but only if she feels she can pull it off well. "As an actress if I have to wear a bikini for a role I don't mind it but I need to workout for at least six months before, to fit the bill. Then if I look comfortable and feel I can pull it off then why not," she said. —IANS
A good beginning
She's got the movies in her genes, and acting is all she ever wanted to do. Alia Bhatt, just 19, daughter of Mahesh Bhatt and Soni Razdan, is all set for a Bollywood debut with Student of the Year (SOTY) and wants to play a long innings in showbiz. Despite her youth, there are certain things Alia is quite clear about, "I don't want to be a one-film wonder and then be re-launched after many years," Alia says. Is she quite the actor yet? It's too soon to call herself an actor, Alia says, even though she's already clear about what she needs to keep at it. "I think that it depends on how determined we are and the drive that we have. If we manage to entertain and thrill the audience and the film-makers, then I'm sure it will work," she says. "It's too soon to tell if I am able to create an impression. I need to wait for another five to six films," she says, quite clear that she's in it for the long haul. Joining films was her original and only career plan. "My decision after college was to study acting, but when the film happened, I said why not learn on the film. There is no plan B. If someone asks me what I would do if I can't succeed as an actor, I would say work harder, because there is nothing else I can do," she says. Even though she comes from a family steeped in Bollywood, Alia didn't want to make her debut with her father's production house, Vishesh Films, a launch pad for several successful actors like Emraan Hashmi and Esha Gupta. "I didn't want to be launched by Vishesh Films. That would have been an easy option. I had to work for this film (SOTY). Close to 500 girls auditioned for this film. If it had been my father's production, why would he audition 500 girls if I was there?" she says. SOTY also marks the debut of two other newcomers— Sidharth Malhotra and Varun Dhawan. Being the youngest on the set, Alia says she was the pampered one. "I was completely pampered on the set. Everything that I wanted, every need, was met. I never felt alone, even though this was my first film. I felt like a star," she said, adding however that being a star kid was sometimes a disadvantage, because people had high expectations. "There is pressure not only because I come from a film family but also because this is my first film," she says. Although she had visited film sets as a child, facing the camera was a whole new ball game, Alia says. "People assume I would have spent a lot of time on my father's sets. But that's not true. I have only vague memories of the sets. I used to get very bored, because it would take so long to change from one shot to another," she says. So how was the experience of acting in her first film? "The first few days were a whole new experience. I had never worked on a film set before. But everyone made me feel comfortable. They made me feel like I was the special star on the set," she says. And did her family help? "With this film, I didn't go to any of them for help. I wanted to learn from my own mistakes. I didn't have experience or training in acting. I was raw and I wanted to do it myself. But any time they wanted to step in and give me advice, I was open," she says.
—IANS
As natural as possible
Emraan Hashmi has had a long association with the Bhatt camp ever since he made his Bollywood debut in 2003, but the actor says he stepped away from them in order to grow as an actor.
In his nine year long career the 33-year-old actor, who is the nephew of producers Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt, has worked in their productions like Footpath, Murder, Zeher, Gangster, Awarapan, Jannat among others. "It was a conscious decision to step away from Bhatt camp. I did not do it because a lot was being said that I work only for the Bhatts. I wanted to grow as an actor and that is why did films like Shanghai, The Dirty Picture, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai,Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji. "I felt the need to go out and play different characters, work with different people in different film contexts made by different view point. I needed to know what lies there," said Hashmi. The actor, who has so far been able to maintain a consistent run at the box office, has only off-late attracted the attention of big production houses. "No one can argue with box office. Once you start showing results, people start endorsing your work, they start believing in you. They know that public is going to come to the hall and watch this actor if the film is good. That reinforces a faith in you," he said. When asked what he prefers, commercial success or critical acclaim, Hashmi said, "I have always aspired to make sure that no one is disappointed with my films. The audience also realises that this guy does meaningful cinema and does not take us for granted." The actor also said that he tries to stay away from typical over the top Bollywood films and prefers to keep his acting as close to natural as possible. "I just try and keep everything authentic. I feel 80 per cent of Bollywood is over the top, theatrical which I don't like, which I don't understand. I like to keep it as natural as possible. My agenda is to make it look like I am not acting. If I achieve at least 60 per cent of it then its victory for me," he said. Hashmi's latest in the offing, Raaz 3, directed by Vikram Bhatt, revolves around the downfall of an actress and how she resorts to black magic to secure her position in the industry. The film also stars Bipasha Basu and Esha Gupta. "I took it up only because it is a fabulous story. I think this film has everything to make it a commercial potboiler. It has Vikram Bhatt coming back with his expertise of horror. It is in 3D and adds to the experience. It is visually more appealing and the horror element stands out," he said. Hashmi also has Karan Johar's untitled film, Vishal Bhardwaj's Ek Thi Daayan and Ghanchakkar . —PTI
Emraan Hashmi is an obedient son. His father Anwar Hashmi is weary of black magic and the movie is based on it. So, he asked Emraan to wear a protective black thread and even visit holy shrines to ask for protection and blessings.
Minute vision
Bridget Jones star Renee Zellweger is set to make her directorial debut with comedy 4 1/2 minutes. The 43-year-old actress will also star in the film opposite Johnny Knoxville, which is based on the life of stand-up comedian Dov Davidoff, a publication reported.
The film follows lead character Jimmy Bennett played by Knoxville, who's life isn't working out until he takes the job of looking after the genius son of PJ Andersen, Zellweger's character.
The story take place in New York and production has been scheduled to start in February. The film is written Anthony Tambakis, who also penned the screenplay for Warrior. —PTI
Salman is friend for life:Preity Zinta
In Bollywood where actors struggle at times to build friendly equations with colleagues, actress Preity Zinta insists that Salman Khan is her "friend for life" because he has always stood by her through thick and thin. "It is unfair to praise a person only when he is doing well. I have seen Salman through all the phases of his life and my life. Even when I had the IPL cases, financial pressure, Salman was the only guy who stood by my side. It meant a lot to me," said Preity. "It was easy for people to speculate that we are part of a scam. At one point we had to pay Rs 100 crore in a week. He (Salman) was the only person who offered to be there and help me financially and whichever way possible," Both of them share a good chemistry on and off screen as well and Preity says it is because they are comfortable with each other. "We are genuinely comfortable with each other. I have great chemistry with all my co-stars. If you don't have any kind of affairs with anyone, your chemistry is fabulous as you are doing your job," she said. In 2009, Preity made a special appearance for Salman in his and Kareena Kapoor starrer Main Aur Mrs Khanna and now it's the Dabangg Khan's turn to return the favour by doing a peppy Punjabi dance number in Preity's upcoming film Ishkq in Paris, which also marks her debut as a producer and writer.
—PTI
Words of comfort
Avatar star Zoe Saldana says it is essential for actors to strike the right chemistry for a love story on screen.
The 34-year-old actress, who will be seen opposite ex-boyfriend Bradley Cooper in upcoming film The Words, said that she was comfortable sharing screen space with the actor, a publication reported. "I've always said that when you watch movies and a love story falls short of what you wanted it to be, as an actor, as a person who works in films, you know that 90 per cent of the time it didn't work is because there was no chemistry, they didn't work out a friendship, they didn't feel safe around each other, they weren't communicating properly," Saldana said. The actress said that wasn't the case on the set of their new film, she said. "Bradley is a very dedicated and open professional. — PTI
Kat’s diet chart
Katrina Kaif knows what it means to be part of Dhoom 3. So, she is working hard on getting into shape and has also changed her diet.
Katrina is no stranger to slimming down for movies. She got an enviable mid-riff for Sheila Ki Jawani and even Chikni Chameli. She has a lovely figure to begin with. She is training for mixed martial arts, Parkour, and some more techniques. She knows that Bipasha Basu and Esha Deol broke the mould and set trends in their roles and she has to be even better. This is a very big role for her and the costumes and look plays a big part. She even has some action scenes with Aamir Khan. So she has tweaked her diet which looks like: Breakfast
Lunch
Family bonding
Kareena Kapoor and Karisma Kapoor bonded with their cousin Ranbir Kapoor on their flight back from
Dubai.
Ranbir was there for Rishi Kapoor's all-boys birthday party and the sisters were there for the promotions of Heroine.
So they giggled and chatted on the flight back and Ranbir filled in Kareena on the gossip.
Ladies’ day out
Ajay is cool
Just couple of months ago, Farah Khan had publicly apologised to actor Ajay Devgn for the remark that she made on Karan Johar’s chat show Koffee With Karan six years ago. On the show,
Farah called Ajay the ‘most overrated actor’.
Now, the two are bonding well on the sets of Farah’s brother Sajid Khan’s next film Himmatwala as she is the choreographer for the film. ‘In hyderabad..in my 20 yrs of choreographing 1st time doing a song with Ajay devgan..he's a really cool guy.good fun becoming!’ she tweeted. The film is a remake of 1983 cult classic Himmatwala.
Aerial view of real India
After shooting for Chakravyuh in Pachmarhi, Arjun Rampal stayed back even after the film had wrapped up. Since Arjun wanted to show his kids real India and its rural face, he had called his kids and wife to come to Pachmarhi. Arjun took them in a private helicopter and gave them an astounding experience of real India.
|
||||||||||||
Walking the lonely road
Rithvik Danjani is in quite a shock. The guy is no doubt a brilliant dancer but unfortunately for him his choreographer has gotten down with typhoid, so he shall be rehearsing and performing alone. The actor we hear has been slightly low all week as his chemistry and tuning with his choreographer has always been great and the first time to perform without her seems strange but he is left with no choice. Rithvik has been shooting all day for his daily show Pavitra Rishta and all night he rehearses for Jhalak. The cast and crew of the team are also pretty surprised as to how someone can be on his feet 24x7 almost and yet look fresh. Rithvik has always been a perfectionist and he has proved so he is also leaving no stone unturned in making sure his fans too vote for him.
Not in love
Popularly called the Bidaai star, actor Sara Khan, is excited about the new phase in her life. She is looking forward to more movies as she gets ready to don various roles..
What is happening on the work front? I have few films including a negative character in a Bengali movie called Deewana Hole Maan. I am very excited about it. We will start shooting soon. So is it goodbye to TV? Well, I have done TV and now it is time for films. I have proved my talent on TV so now I want the challenge of different roles that films can offer. What about skin show and intimate scenes in movies? Well, if the need be will see. I want to be known as an actress than just a glamour figure. Sure there are many actresses who are not shy about exposing. Recently it was rumoured that you are in love. Is that true? Not at all. I had put up a BB status to keep the guys from entertainment industry away. I am focussed on work for now. Is Ali Merchant your past? Yes. I don’t want to talk about him. Too much has been discussed. Let it remain in the past. He has moved on in life and so have I. Have you signed a film called Bitch? Yes. It is based on the Bhawari Devi Murder Case. — HRM
In for some change
It is time for a major change in the campus of Elite as Sia, Kabir and Arjun begin a new journey full of fun, challenges and lots of drama. As the show Humse Hai Liife, enters into a new phase, viewers will be treated with fresh experiences. An element of surprise will be added with the introduction of a vibrant new character Aliyah, who enters the campus and casts the spell of her optimistic charm. Aliyah is pretty, confident, a go- getter and someone capable of making friends with everybody. She is highly energetic and enjoys socialising with people. The character is infectious and will prove as a catalyst in changing the lives of everyone at Elite, including Sia. Aliyah will be seen as the principal’s daughter and the character will be depicted by Sheena Bajaj of Best of Luck Nikki fame. Aliyah is the new-gen girl and every guy’s fantasy.
Look out for popular faces
Mahhi Vij of Laagi Tujhse Lagan fame will now be seen in an episode of Life Ok’s crime show Savdhan India. The channel wants to increase their viewership so they have not only revamped the show and got Mohnish Bhel as host but also are roping in popular faces to act in the show.
Recreating the past
This week History TV 18’s new show Top Shot Reloaded (Season 2), a reality competition show takes aim at legendary tales of marksmanship. From Annie Oakley to William Tell, Top Shot taps into amazing feats of sharp-shooting, where teams and individuals shoot it out for a $100,000 prize package Contenders face challenges inspired by real events, from medieval crossbow contests to Wild West gun fights to modern-day sniper missions. Every episode reveals the weapons, technologies and tactics of a different era, while high-speed HD cameras capture each skilful execution with breathtaking precision. Top Shot is history in the making. Watch it this Sunday.
|
||||||||||||
|
Astro turf
ARIES: A hazardous day. Do not be tempted to daydream. Be sure to get to the bank before it closes. Romance could be an anticlimax. Be tactful in your criticism as emotions may easily flare up. Tarot message: Health of an elderly member at home will need looking after. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 32
TAURUS: Old acquaintances are likely to pop up and you will be intrigued to exchange notes. Don’t make important moves today. More efforts may be expected from you at your work place without the possibility of higher income. Tarot message: Follow that hunch to take up an old hobby again. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 28 GEMINI:A call or a visit from a relative you have not seen for ages brings an opportunity to revisit the past and catch up on more recent family happenings. Entrepreneurs must try for loan. Past differences could easily cause quarrels today. Tarot message: Take it easy. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 30 CANCER: This is a fantastic time to visit relatives and friends. Catch up on outstanding paper-work and correspondence. Today brings a turning point in your personal relationship. Tarot message: This is not a bad time to open up new doors that could lead you in a more lucrative direction. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 31 LEO: The card “King of Wands” reveals best moments to relax and socialize with friends and loved ones. You should be lucky in your choice of entertainment. Grasp the job opportunity. Take care of your health. Beware when handling electronics. Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at work place. Lucky colour: Fuchsia. Magic number: 64 VIRGO: You will instinctively know when to talk and when to put your head down and work. Financial transaction comes to the fore after 1.00 p.m. Domestic interests move at an easy pace. Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation if you make property investments. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 42
LIBRA: Catching up on jobs you have been putting off for a while seems wise idea. You may be joining forces with a person older than yourself in an exciting venture. Getting into bad company will be regretted. Tarot message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Beige. Magic number: 59 SCORPIO: Do not miss the opportunity to unload all the unfinished business that seems to be weighing on your mind and spirit. You will be amazed how much lighter you will feel when you have shed those concerns. Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 60 SAGITTARIUS: Use your communication boldly with a creative expression. Patronage from powerful individuals can validate your efforts. Do the minor repair jobs round the home. Do not take riskS with your savings. Tarot message: Leave things open ended for best results. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 40 CAPRICORN: Be positive in your approach. You will be better able to cope with jobs that require team efforts. Home entertaining should go off rather well. Women: keep your stakes low while playing cards. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 57 AQUARIUS: Everyone’s attention is likely to be firmly on you as the center of the action. Check your car before you set out. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult to get along with. Focus on personal affairs. Tarot message: Wait a while everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 52 PISCES: Do not get involved in any land deal. A secret love affair will bring you some added pleasure. Accepting accolades is a healthy experience that promotes self- confidence and raises self-esteem. Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain your grip over your business. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 63
|
||||||||||||
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is September 8...
Ailments should not be ignored, as they might cause some problems. There will be a rise in your expenses that will bother you. Arguments at home will lead to unpleasantness with family members. Your sharp observation will help you stay ahead of others. Friends will help you realise a cherished dream. They understand your need to be surrounded by beauty and comfort. There is a chance you have developed romantic feelings for someone you have known for years. Happily, the attraction is mutual. This affair will send shock waves through your social circle. Number eight is the manager of strong, successful, and material vibration. 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. You may make a commitment with responsibility and bravery. Be kind and give yourself some cushion. Keep your schedule light and show confidence in your great ideas. It is a good time for making new contacts. Those looking for opportunities can expect an encounter that will be important for their career. But first, they'll have to deal with problems from the past. You have all the evidence that you need. You can avoid discouragement by surrounding yourself with symbols of positive reinforcement. If something is working well for a lot of others, it could also work for you. Be willing to listen, especially if children or young members 'come to you,' with information. Mood: Cheerful and Happy. Preferred signs: Taurus, Cancer. Positive colours: Blue and Lavender. Select days: Tuesday and Friday. Favourable numbers: 5, 10, 14, 21, 50
|
||||||||||||
|
FIRST DAY FIRST SHOW
The story revolves around Shanaya (Bipasha Basu), a very successful Bollywood actress. She’s offered the best roles and wins all the awards. In addition, she also has a passionate love affair with a handsome director named Aditya (Emraan Hashmi). This all ends when a young actress, Sanjana (Esha Gupta) makes her film debut. Suddenly, Shanaya seems to be forgotten and everybody only wants to work with Sanjana. Soon enough, Aditya also leaves Shanaya for Sanjana, and Shanaya sees her career fading away and she slowly becomes crazy. She turns towards black magic and makes it her goal in life to destroy Sanjana. No balancing act Bipasha Basu looks stunning and handles her evil act very well. Emraan Hashmi looks very average and Esha Gupta should learn how to act because all she has is good looks. Nikita Arya, student, Panjab University Average score The first half of the movie is not that bad and has its share of scares as well. The dialogues are very predictable and the later half is dragged. Even the music is pretty average. Rohan Sarkaria, bank employee Typical stuff It is just like how a Bollywood horror movie should be—it has nonsensical scary scenes, loud screams and a bad storyline. Although the actors have tried to play their roles well it is a punishment for the audience. Rachita Rai, student, MCM College (As told Sabia Talwar)
|
|
| 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 | |
Asha Bhosle (September 8, 1933, Sangli, Mumbai) started her career in 1943 and has done playback singing in 1,000 Bollywood movies, having sung over 12,000 songs. OP Nayyar gave Asha Bhosle a big break in CID (1956). In 1966, Asha's performance in the duets from music director RD Burman's first successful movie Teesri Manzil won popular acclaim. Piya Tu Ab To Aaja (Caravan), O Haseena Zulfon Wali (Teesri Manzil), and Yeh Mera Dil (Don) are some of her famous numbers. Asha is also working on her autobiography.
