|
|
|
|
|
Go with the flow
It all changed last year. Post the success of prêt and couture, the Indian fashion industry woke up to the demand of a third segment. Later, India Resort Fashion Week was organised in Goa. Dedicated to what comprises holiday, lounge, evening… in simplest terms leisure-wear, the week flaunted names like Shantanu Nikhil and Narendra Kumar. While the trickle-down effects of a fashion week are seen for the next several seasons, what specifically came out of this one was kaftan. The length kept varying though - from short to knee-length, long maxi-dresses to gowns. Originally a Persian costume, kaftans have been put to optimal use!
Going West
Kaftans gained popularity when the Middle-East began to have an influence on the fashion industry worldwide. It was one of the outcomes of liberal trade policies of the Arab nations. The outfit forayed on the ramps of India much later after its ‘style potential’ was discovered around the world, especially in the West (it happened there in 1950). Today, almost every international designer has used kaftans as a part of their collections and Indian designers are not far behind. Jai Parvesh, fashion designer duo, was one of the first few to introduce the concept of resort-wear and kaftans in 2006. “At that time, many famous designers in India enquired about resort-wear from us or how a kaftan fits into it. Today, we have a fashion week dedicated to it, where we see an assortment of kaftans,” says Jai. He adds that the demand is still a hundred times more in the Western markets, but India will catch up gradually, “Do we have a choice? It’s the most comfortable outfit for Indian summer. As for parties, it makes for an experimental choice.”
Hide the flab
The best example is of Aishwarya Rai, who wore a Roberto Cavalli kaftan gown during her last outing at Cannes. The outfit dutifully hid all the flab - a characteristic that makes kaftans a hit with designers and their buyers. The age-group of clients, as a result, becomes wider. Admits Charu Parasher, in whose last and recent collection, kaftans occupy a prominent place, “Kaftans have very fluid silhouettes that don’t highlight the wrong parts of the body; instead they hide them all. They are an alternative to body-hugging, fitted dresses that were once thought as the best bet for parties.”
Host of options
Variations in length, fabric and designs make kaftans a versatile attire. It can be worn on a beach with bikini, paired up with tights at a formal occasion, teamed up with a belt on a party or can be kept simple, just the added length will make it apt for a red-carpet event. Pankaj and Nidhi, the fashion designer duo, swears by the costume with which they have created different versions. “The silhouette remains more or less the same, yet the look of it has to be different depending on the occasion.” Unlike a fitted dress, it provides ample space to showcase their creativity. “What we can do on a voluminous kaftan, we can’t on a well-fitted dress. The scope is less and so is the space. When a kaftan is used as the canvas, a designer can create a lot.”
Bright future
From resort-wear to prêt line and now to couture, kaftans have come a long way. They are becoming a part of trousseau with heavy additions of embellishments and embroideries. Pallavi Jaipur, during her second season at the recently concluded Wills India Lifestyle Fashion Week, included a kaftan shirt in her collection. “But that’s not about it. The kind of rage they are becoming, I won’t be surprised if designers include a piece or so in the next season of couture week as well.” Those looking for a change certainly won’t mind it. ashima@tribunemail.com
On the celebrity radar
Recently Jennifer Lopez was spotted in a kaftan dress when she went out with boyfriend Casper Smart. Back home, Poorna Jagannathan and Neha Dhupia flaunted a similar Gaurav Gupta creation in bird print.
|
|
A script well-written
There are two kinds of people in the world — those who do what they love and those who learn to love what they do. Niranjan Iyengar certainly falls in the latter category. This journalist-turned-designer-turned-screenwriter-lyricist is on a high, not just because his two completely different kind of films — Student of the Year and Heroine — are about to release, but also because he completes ten years in the film industry.
How does it feel? “I am glad on being part of the industry for ten long years. Two films releasing together; well, that happened with Kal Ho Naa Ho and Jism as well,” he says. Been part of films like Paap, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Fashion, Kurbaan and My Name Is Khan as a dialogue writer and also a lyricist, Niranjan has enjoyed a long innings with director Karan Johar. What makes you two click? “I would say our work has benefitted from our friendship,” says Niranjan, who has been friends with Karan Johar long before he turned director and him a screenplay writer. Tired of asking same questions to the same set of people as a film journalist, Niranjan followed his other good friend Manish Malhotra into designing. Three years on, it was with the book The Making of Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham that he turned towards the films. “Designing gave me a good grasp on the outer appearance of the film, which certainly comes handy,” says Niranjan. His films have done well at BO, songs like Teri Kali Kali Ankhiyon Se, Noor E Khuda, Tere Naina Tere Naina and Shukran Allah have found their own fan club. What works with the audience? “ What I believe is that its honesty of your story clicks with the masses,” he says. Any favourites? “Kal Ho Naa Ho and Jism will remain close to my heart. Apart from them, whichever film I am working on is my pet, making Student of the Year and Heroine my current favourites.” In fact, he had to rewrite some of the dialogues for Heroine all over again when his laptop was stolen and he had no back up. “That was bit of a bummer but things turned out well in the end, which anyway, always do,” he finishes on a positive note.
|
|
What’s cooking with Rani Mukerji?
On Aiyyaa
I play a girl called Meenakshi. She is a Maharashtrian. She agrees to get married according to the wishes of her family. She has a fantasy world of her own. I had to learn Marathi for the movie because I am playing a Maharashtrian for the first time and this is an important aspect of the movie. School of thought
I liked his movies but I did not think I would fit into his niche cinema. I told him that I would not enter his dark zone but he had to come into my bright zone of commercial cinema. I think he has balanced the two zones very well with the movies he has made lately. I loved the story he has written for the movie. Twin treat
I am delighted that I have two releases in less than two months. Aiyyaa releases on October 12 and Talaash is out on November 30. My characters are very different in both movies. Meenakshi is full of life but the lady in Talaash is intense and fiercely guarded. You see her smile only once in the movie. The Khans of the industry
I am friends with all the Khans and we have a mutual love for each other. Salman Khan is a good friend. Aamir has always been my teacher since the beginning of my career. Even in Talaash, I learnt a lot from him because he is unpredictable and innovative. SRK is extremely supportive and positive and always pushes you to do better. I feel blessed to have them as my friends. All inspired
I am inspired by Meryl Streep and I aspire to be like her. She is way past her prime but she is still a threat to the younger actresses. If she is nominated then everybody else wonders if they stand a chance and sometimes she just sweeps all the awards. She is elegant and poised and has a great sense of humour too. She loves her craft. I could go on and on.
— HRM
|
|||
|
High on life
Bipasha Basu is enjoying all the attention showered on her for her role and performance in Raaz 3. The movie has got a good opening too and it will not be long before invitations for the success party are sent out! Love yourself
I would love to host a radio show called Love Yourself where I could help people be themselves no matter what. Loving yourself is the key to a happier life. I am really comfortable in the space I have created for myself and everything that I have achieved. Getting into shape and staying in shape is an act of loving oneself. Scared to death!
I am very timid in real life though I have done a few horror movies. It is a
challenge for me to watch them. I am even scared of driving and sleeping in the dark. I have my dogs for company at home so that helps me to a large extent! When I came to Mumbai, I lived in a trucker colony so I would carry a tool with me at all times for protection. Star struck
I am a huge fan of Brad Pitt and Brad and Angelina together. I have named my car Brad after him! I love my car! I am so grateful for my driver because I need to be driven around. I am enjoying life at the moment with my friends, family, movies and traveling.
|
|||
|
Shah Rukh praises Priyanka!
Shahrukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra have been maintaining distance post the reports of their alleged relationship but the former did not shy away from appreciating the talent of Piggy Chops with whom he has shared screen space in a few films. Priyanka Chopra is going to debut as an international singer with her first single In My City also featuring Will.I.Am. The music album will be released at the National Football League on September 13. When SRK was asked to comment on Priyanka Chopra’s talent, he replied that he has no doubts over her capabilities.
“Priyanka has the capacity and talent to become the first crossover star from India, our first creative export. She has a super team backing her and she is truly an international brand and will make India very proud,” Shahrukh said.
|
|||
|
Gateway to India
Hollywood actress Halle Berry, who is draped in a bright red sari in her upcoming film Cloud Atlas, says she is fascinated with Indian culture and wants to know it better.
"India is a fascinating country with myriad layers to it. I want to take a step towards learning more about one of the oldest cultures in the world. I have many Indian friends and it's fascinating to hear their stories of ancient India," Berry said in a statement.
For a scene in Cloud Atlas, an adaptation of the eponymous 2004 novel by David Mitchell, the actress is dressed in a traditional Indian way. Her look is complete in a sari, and she also wears bangles, with henna applied on her palms. Cloud Atlas is written and directed by Lana Wachowski. —
IANS
|
|||
|
Raaz 3 is not about Ameesha: Vikram Bhatt
After Mahesh Bhatt told the media that Raaz 3 is an autobiographical story of director Vikram Bhatt, the gossip mill went into an overdrive.
But Vikram clarified that Raaz 3 is not based on his relationship with actress Ameesha Patel. “The story is about an actress who is going through a low phase in her career during which she falls in love with a director undergoing a similar period in his life at that time. Both Ameesha and I have been in a relationship at a time which was a low phase for the both of us even though she was doing better than me. As a director, I have obviously drawn insights from my life, but the film is certainly not about her,” he said. The director said that they never loved each other. “I don't think we ever loved each other. Ameesha had problems of her own with her parents and we both shared a low phase of our lives. We now realise that actually we were just good friends who mistook it for love. We still remain friends. She is a lovely girl and I only wish good things for her,” he added.
|
|||
|
Million dollar pooch
Manpriya Singh People will still stop their cars, if not bring it to a screeching halt and exclaim with all the mush words intact. Still almost a decade after the breed pug was ‘commercially’ introduced to the country, the sight a pug, puts its owners in an enviable situation. The over drooling admirers while taking your pet out on a walk is just one of the instances. Laughs Dhruv Mittal, Class 12 commerce student, “It’s like even now people stop their cars and exclaim like ‘so cute’.” He fondly speaks of his five year old, beige pug called Dollar. Love me, love my dog
The little thing didn’t come cruising into his life easily though. “It was somebody else’s dog for as many as three years and I’ve had him only for two years now.” He adds, “Their owners were leaving Chandigarh, when I asked for the dog.” Apart from the three years with the pet, there’s nothing much that he’s missed though. “Co-incidentally I always thought that if I had a dog of my own, I’d name him Dollar.” That’s’ not where the bond ends though. “We’ve formed a bond in less than two years. He is completely and totally attached to me and only me. He’s always either sitting by my side or following me all the time.” Apart from the grand welcome that awaits the home of pet owners, small joys abound. A fine dog and its wagging tail, the attention it showers and the way it looks back at you. Yours faithfully
Taking charge of a three year old trained pup came easy, courtesy the love for pets. “I’d always read a lot of literature on dogs and visit dog shows, so that information came in handy.” He adds, “Though my parents were a little apprehensive of a pet that had already been with someone.” Not that the previous ties have been snapped. “Whenever his previous owners come to visit him, he goes crazy, he recognises them because he recognises the smell.” As they say, he’s the first to welcome, foremost to defend and never forgets the owner and forgives the follies. Nevertheless, he says, “It’s a challenge to give him his medicine. If you mix it in his food, he refuses to eat the food.” He adds, “That’s when it becomes a real challenge to feed him. Apart from whenever he needs to be taken to a veterinary and injected.” Hardly ever a pet, ignores the call of the master. What is a dog without its master? He laughs, “But whenever he goes and hides in any corner and can’t be found by my parents, I just whistle and he comes running.” That sorts everything out. manpriya@tribunemail.com
|
|||
|
Sailing through the school stress
Renee Singh What is so stressful about school years? Anxiety about school can come from several factors. If you are noticing school jitters in your child, you should know where this anxiety is coming from and what can be done about it. Educational requirements get more and more stringent at all levels of education. Students of all ages at all stages of their school lives are experiencing considerable amount of stress. Since students are our prime resource on the planet, it is of extreme importance that we keep their stress levels at bay so that their performance levels remain optimum. Various factors build up to cause school anxiety and it is our prime concern as parents, teachers and guides to help our kids go through this period. There are tips we can use to help any student in any age group to relieve stress symptoms and do better in school. All children go through similar pangs and they need specific and proven techniques to facilitate them to reduce their anxiety.
(Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)
|
|||
|
Tweetie pie
Happy birthday my darling Hubby@TheRajKundra .Ure the bessst man I know,the wind beneath my wings.."Tu mera hero"mwwwwaaah — So easy to just grab the billion dollar man, wreck havoc in his life and then blissfully walk with a baby and call him the best hubby. Avoid drinking any coke,Pepsi,soda s etc,it contains Neurotoxins,damages brain cells,hv coconut water instead my precious
tweeple:) — Yes, that’s all we have been waiting for. Diet and nutrition advice from you, Mallika. Next up, should we expect some relationship advice too? Haggling with the fisherwoman is a real stress buster!! — Joker, did not rake much at the box
office and Shirin Farhad... is not too much to talk about. So, yes, that is exactly how
you should tackle stress in life now.
|
|||
|
I'm unambitious: Ayesha Takia
She is enjoying being a "home body" and is not ambitious to break any ground in Bollywood, but as the host of singing reality show Sur Kshetra, which has big names like Abida Parveen, Runa Laila and Asha Bhosle associated with it, actress Ayesha Takia says she has got a new insight into the music industry. "I've got a new insight to the music industry. It is so different from the film industry. There is a certain respectability," Ayesha said. "A film set is very casual. If there is a senior actor, by the end of it, you end up joking with him. Over here, the language is different, the whole scenario is very different," she added. Ayesha is excited about her new role as a show anchor, and says that the show is "like an Indo-Pak cricket match". "This was how the ambience was on the sets and I knew it would be fun. And since I am hosting it, I get a chance to be myself.” — Agencies
I’m sexy and you know it!
Kareena Kapoor has been voted the hottest woman in Asia by a popular men's magazine. She is delighted with her new status and thinks it is her unpredictability that makes her hot. Sexiness is in the attitude and not in skin show, she expresses. Meanwhile, she has started reading thanks to Saif Ali Khan who has also helped her develop an interest in international politics. She said books become a part of one’s life if one reads them before going to bed every night. She recently completed reading 300 pages out of a 550 page book.
The smoke screen
Films with smoking scenes will get a U/A rating if not an A rating. And the disclaimer will have a voiceover by the person smoking in the movie. There will be no exceptions. So be prepared to hear Kareena warn you against smoking.
Director’s cut
Sajid Nadiadwala has spent twenty-five years in the industry producing films
Huma Qureshi stole our hearts in Gangs of Wasseypur II. She recently posed in a revealing jacket on the cover of a magazine and looked ultra-hot! The actress has at least four movies coming up including Daayan opposite Emraan Hashmi. Way to go! |
|||
|
Fabulous at 40...
She is known for a fit body and hosting abilities. A regular at the gym, Mandira Bedi talks about her health and fitness at 40. What is your fitness secret? I exercise five to six times a week. I hit the gym in the mornings and the day I can’t make it, I go for running. No matter what, I take out time for workout. Is there a particular workout regime that you follow? I have been doing weight training and cardio since years now. I like to break into sweat that is what makes me feel I have excercised. There are some people who enjoy yoga and some who love dancing but I enjoy high intensity workouts. I had put on 22 kgs during my pregnancy and once I had the baby, I still had 18 kgs to lose. What is your regime? Monday, Wednesday, Friday I do weights, divide the body parts like
legs, chest and back, and shoulders and arms leaving abs for any chance I get. On the remaining days, I do cardio which includes spinning, running, cross training. Sunday is for rest. What do you do when you are travelling? Even when I am travelling, I run on the treadmill in the hotel I am staying or run on the streets. I always take my running shoes. I carry skipping rope with me, incase I can’t go for a jog. With growing age, is it difficult to maintain your physique? Post a baby and a broken foot, which I had recently, I have a strong body. Fitness is an important part of my being. Do you stay fit because you are a celebrity? I don’t need a role to inspire me to keep
fit. I got this level of fitness because I enjoy staying in shape. I love to shop, so today there is nothng in my wardrobe that doesn’t fit me. I don’t have to worry about flab sticking out
in a sexy dress.
Wrap up time
For the sake of love
Mohit Sehgal who has been on a hiatus since his last hit show Dill Mill Gaye, is looking forward to his upcoming show Khamoshiyaan. The show has been on hold for a while but now buzz is soon it will replace an important series on Star Plus and will go on air soon. Recently the unit shot in Southampton, London for a week.
Karan Singh Grover was looking for some substantial TV role since his endeavour in films didn’t work out as expected and now he has signed on a new show called Qubool Hai on Zee. The show is a family drama based in a Muslim backdrop. He was recently seen in Teri Meri Love Stories with Anita Hassnandani.
|
|||
|
Astro turf
ARIES: Enjoy a quiet morning and try redecorating your home. A trip to the local market for fresh produce might inspire you to eat nutrient-rich foods. Think before acting. Take care of your health. Tarot message: Meditation will bring in mental peace and comfort. Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 33
TAURUS: Today you will find people generally hard to pin down. Conflicting energies in the cosmos make this a good day for your positive vibes. Unexpected visitors can be an interesting interlude. Tarot message: Be firm and stand ground. Do not let anyone take advantage of you. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 51 GEMINI: Your card “the Sword” signifies that enduring relationships can be formed with new people who live at a distance. Benefits are assured by not taking comments too seriously. Be happy for what you have. Tarot message: Don’t involve yourself in more than one activity at a time. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 34 CANCER: Look at a problem from different angles and you can find a simple solution. Your popularity will be an asset. But ensure that you do not neglect your home and family. Plan a romantic evening. Tarot message: Don’t be enthusiastic in finalising a particular deal. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels.
Magic number: 39 LEO: Today attention revolves around your home, property, family and decision making. Your determination and thoroughness will ensure success. A heavy workload could put you off early. Tarot message: Take thing one at a time instead of multi pronged attacks. Lucky colour: Black.
Magic number: 27 VIRGO: Hobbies will give you satisfaction. Confidence and self-esteem are on the rise. Business negotiations will give you a chance to shine. Put forward your ideas and enjoy the positive response. Tarot message: You must share responsibility with others before continuing. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 45
LIBRA: A good day for romance. Avoid gossiping; because it can spoil your chances of success. Do not try to rush into relationships. A friendly vibe makes it easy to tackle a tough situation at home. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hard work. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 47 SCORPIO: Do not be afraid to get things off your chest. Avoid being demanding in relationships. Frank discussion could clear the air. A more comfortable lifestyle will result from a pay raise, boosting your confidence. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 32 SAGITTARIUS: The day will be sensitive for married couples. Do not take on chores that would tire you out. Appointments and meetings may fill your day, making it necessary to keep your phone turned off. Tarot message: Use your judgments and be firm in extracting a commitment. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 29 CAPRICORN: A positive outlook in life will change out approach towards life. Be realistic in any business negotiations or plans, don’t overlook the petty details and you will have success. A childhood dream may soon be a reality. Tarot message: Take care of interests and portfolios of your work. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 42 AQUARIUS: Patience and hard work will have a positive impact. Focus on leadership and inspiration. You can make new acquaintances and visit new places. Loved ones are likely to be agreeable. Tarot message: Try to relax in the middle of the day and put your cares to one side. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 61 PISCES: Surprising events can lead to a major rethink on what you are doing with your life. Home renovations may need more money than you had planned for. Speak to your partner about using joint finances to cover an extra loan. Tarot message: Take responsibility for your own action. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 58
|
|||
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is September 10...
It’s a day to discuss topics connected with bureaucracy, important financial matters and your long-term goals. Listen carefully to what is said on the different subjects. Be more conscious about your career. Travel for work is on the cards. Better planning will be required in achieving financial prosperity. Personal matters may suffer due to confrontation. Number ten takes the lead in love and the chase is of utmost importance to these lovers. There can be self-centeredness. However, you may be willing to experiment .Your mind's on work whether you're there or not. Make a real effort to compartmentalize. Exercise as a transition time helps. Keep major goals, both personal and work-related, on a priority list. Try to be less scanty and focus on precise definite aims. Youngsters could find the perfect occasion to accomplish something personal. They will have to act with prudence, but without risking the given opportunity. As problems arise, you will be forced to use your own imagination. The person you usually rely on when you are in a pinch might not be available to help you. Spending will increase. 2013 will open up some lucrative opportunities with attractive financial possibilities. If you are planning to buy a studio or premises of your own it will now be easier to arrange for loan, which can supplement your savings. Your friends will put you in the spotlight, without realizing that you may not like it. Be willing to be tactful but fix it fast! You have a big, busy and opportunistic time and some friendships may get 'swept through the cracks' if you don't stay on top of things. Your best chances for romance come in little private places or out-of-the-way situations where you and a partner can enjoy quiet time together. Big social gatherings and public places are too noisy to hear yourself think and too stimulating to tune into the tender feelings that make love so sweet. Mood: Emotional but happy. Preferred Signs: Gemini and Virgo. Positive colours: Burgundy and Maroon. Select days: Tuesday and Thursday. Favourable numbers: 2, 10, 12, 15, 25
|
|
| 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 | |
Shilpa shetty
Mallika Sherawat
Farah Khan
Bold and beautiful
Buzz is that Star Plus’ four-year-show Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya is ending soon and a new show Sooli Upar Sej Piya Ki will replace it instead. Apparently the last date of the show would be in mid-September. Earlier, the channel had plans to air Sanjay Leela Bhansali Productions’ Saraswatichandra but as that is not working out for now, this new show has been finalised.
Hongey Judaa Na Hum vividly traces the journey of a young couple Rohan (played by Raqesh) and Muskaan (Played by Aamna) and their tryst with destiny. It is a volatile narrative which teaches us that someone can be erased from the mind but getting them out of the heart is another story altogether. The show explores the story of a young married couple who are diametrically opposite individuals, who think and behave differently rarely agree on anything.
Raise the curtains
Back to square one
Anurag Kashyap (September 10, 1972, Gorakhpur) is director and screenwriter known for Black Friday (2004), a controversial and award-winning Hindi film about the 1993 Bombay bombings, followed by No Smoking (2007), Dev D (2009) and Gulaal (2009). As a screenwriter, he wrote the scripts for the Filmfare Award winning Satya (1998) and the Academy Award nominated Canadian film Water (2005). He is considered one of the most versatile and prolific filmmakers in contemporary Hindi cinema. Kashyap’s stars are to take him on zenith
in 2015.