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Nothing beats it!
Just commercial
On & off
What’s on these days is the same old story albeit in a new bottle. “All the songs of Cocktail are a safe bet and among the Punjabi singers, Honey Singh rules. Then a couple of English tracks by LMFAO, for example, I’m sexy and I know it, are very popular these days,” DJ Sweet lists a few. The list of current hits is more like a platform for popular music to establish its superiority. It’s a constant of Bollywood music and Punjabi tracks. Only the sets of the songs change, neither the genre nor the tastes of the people. Nods DJ KK, “Honey’s Singh’s Main Sharabi is a hit. Among English tracks, there’s Party Rockers by LMFAO and Touch the Sky by Sean Paul.” “Not that anybody’s complaining of the peppy upbeat commercial music because that’s the only thing that gets our weddings going, but when people become non-receptive of any other music that’s when the other genres suffer,” shares AV. That’s when that happens, till then everybody is happy to be celebrating with the clinker of glasses while Honey Singh’s ‘Main Sharabi’ plays in the background. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Right to be
“I am 72 and I am not tired,” says famous Pakistani feminist poet Kishwar Naheed, looking radiant and charged-up while getting nostalgic about the years of her creative struggle and the resistance she faced. In Ambala to attend an Indo-Pak Mushira, organised by HIFA, she says today one finds many female writers and poets but during the 1960’s, there were very few and these too faced a lot of opposition. Early struggle
Kishwar recollects how she had to fight a lot to pursue her education in a milieu where women did not attend school, besides facing a lot of criticism against her writings during her early days. She recalls, “Sometimes it was extremely difficult to cope up with the social pressure. Time was also such that women were forced indoors. Even in India, the condition was more or less the same. Except Amrita Pritam, there was hardly anyone who tried to create space for women to voice their feelings.” Never say die
Kishwar did not give up though; she kept up with the struggle: “I made it a point that if a woman had to express her love, she did not require male vocabulary or expression. I tried to assimilate the same in my poetry.” Kishwar, who loves to call herself a ‘realist’ rather than a ‘radical’, adds that real liberation comes when people are mentally free and their mindsets are evolved. Even in developed countries like the US, women have issues. “Wearing a skirt does not imply that one is free. It is a struggle one has to keep up with,” she says. Born into a traditional family in Bulandshahr, UP, they moved to Lahore, Pakistan, after Partition of the country. Kishwar, now settled in Islamabad, says much of poetry is a reaction to those bitter days. Two-nation theory
“It is not possible for these two nations to become one again. It is better that both countries come together and bridge their differences with love. I welcome the liberal visa policy, especially for senior citizens, as it will provide them a chance to visit each other’s countries, re-live their old days and recollect their verbal memories. The road ahead
We are working on a project to record verbal history of people on both the sides and will publish it in the form of a book,” she says, in a strong Punjabi accent. She adds that the number of mushiaras have gone down in Pakistan because of the constant threat of human bombings. “One is worried about the family and relatives all the time,” she rues. vivekgupta@tribunemail.com
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Console magic
A pretty girl behind the console in any lounge or discotheque still invites second, third and many more than regular glances. DJ Paroma from Mumbai, however, takes all the looks and appreciation in her stride as it is music that matters to her more than anything else. In Chandigarh to perform at 10 Downing Street, Altius, she nods when told that she can be an inspiration to many girls who want to get into deejaying! Starting point
I was working as a cabin crew for an airline, so naturally I travelled a lot and got to visit famous lounges and clubs. I was finding myself being exposed to all kinds of music, which got me interested. I didn't have to tune my sensibilities to music, it came naturally and this is how deejaying happened. Live wire
If I am told to explain my genre, it is definitely commercial and club, but I totally believe in exploring all the genres of music. As a DJ, I should be able to engage people in music, which comes if I am open to all kinds of music. No big deal
I understand that girl deejays are not common, but is there anything wrong in being one? Deejaying always has been a male-dominated profession but things are changing and so is the attitude of people. It is undoubtedly a challenging job for girls, but if you have the right attitude and sense of music everything works fine. Training ground
I don't deny the role of training or guidance from people who are experienced in this field. Music sense, the will to experiment and ability to explore all genres is what make you a good DJ. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Up close and personal with Brad Pitt
What made you sign this movie via a text message? Andrew and I are good mates and have known each other for a while now. I was more than happy to oblige when he asked me to do Killing Them Softly and yes, Andrew explained the basic idea of the movie over a text. You have not done a light-hearted movie in ages. Don't you feel like doing a light movie or a romantic comedy? It’s not like I am against romantic films or doing anything light-hearted. But I am at a stage where I like bringing some kind of profundity to my role. What are your wedding plans? (Laughs) No plans yet. Other than, we're going to do it. Have you seen any Indian movies lately? The last Bollywood movie I watched was 3 Idiots that featured Aamir Khan in it. It was impressive! Do you have any plans to come to India again? On my last visit, I got to see a lot of India. There is no place like it. It’s so diverse – both the south and the north – that one cannot get to see all of it in a couple of weeks. But I found Varanasi absolutely staggering. I have never seen anything like it before. The city just spills into the River Ganges. It’s really, really extraordinary. What do you like to do when you get time to spare? Of course I stay busy but whenever I get time I thoroughly dedicate myself to my children because their happiness means a lot to me. Are you a strict father? It’s not about being a strict father but yes, sometimes you have to be firm just to make the young ones make the right choices and know the difference between good and bad. How do you and Angelina Jolie make time for each other and for your family? We always make sure that our family and kids are our main priority. Our happiest moments are probably in the evening before the kids go to bed. We often play together in our pyjamas after dinner and it's like having a party sometimes where we're all dancing and jumping around and being silly. That's when you really feel the beauty of having a family. It's our
little world.
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Of music and melodies
Tell us about the new format. In most of the singing shows, the singer stands in the centre of the stage and the musicians are in one corner. This year, we have changed that. This time we will attempt to make a lovely musical show and the musicians will be on the stage with the singers. Secondly, the entire concept of judges going against the participants will not exist. We will be there as judges while the viewers and the audience will vote. So will the audience vote be the final word? Along with audience participation, we will make the final decision. Out of hundreds of participants, we have few winners who come and go. So what do these reality shows give these participants? The performances of these contestants are being telecast three times a week. For those who hardly get an opportunity, this is a big achievement. A lot of these contestants are travelling around the globe doing shows. They are earning better than any business executive. Will we see any fights among judges on this show? We are not going to fight. We have all decided not to fight. That is not what the viewers look at in a reality show and neither they are waiting to watch who comes from a poor family.
— HRM
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The rescue rangers
The actress recently returned to Mumbai after travelling around Europe. It is learnt that she will no longer be staying alone as she’s asked her parents to come and stay with her. Kangna Ranaut owns a penthouse apartment in suburban Mumbai. A friend of the actress reveals, “Kangana asked her parents to come and stay with her. She has been a little down lately, especially after her break-up with boyfriend Nicholas Lafferty. And the last thing she wants is to come to an empty home after shooting for many hours. Since she was feeling a little lonely, she’s asked her parents to move in with her.” Kangana has her hands full right now with Shootout At Wadala, Tanu Weds Manu 2 and Krrish 3 with Hrithik Roshan. The actress has recently returned from Paris where she was shooting Queen.
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Filmmaker Karan Johar who was quoted as saying that Jab Tak Hai Jaan is Yash
Chopra’s last film said that his statement has been misunderstood. “I think
my statement has been misunderstood. Jab Tak Hai Jaan is definitely not Yash
uncle’s last film... his legendary legacy will go on,” he said.
The film marks Yash Chopra's comeback to direction after a gap of eight years.
His last was 2004 cross-border romance Veer Zaara. Jab Tak Hai Jaan stars Shah
Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma and is expected to release on
November 13.
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Heavy weight ambassador
Branding with the best: Shipla Shetty and Mary Kom
Nandish Sandhu is one proud husband. Nandish's wife Rashmi Desai is one of the top four contestants on the dance reality show, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Rashmi who has been showered with praises from the judges and continues to win the love and admiration of viewers has full support from husband Nandish. With the grand finale taking place this weekend, Nandish is sure of Rashmi's dancing abilities and he is confident that she will win.
Doting couple: Rashmi Desai and
Nandish Sandhu
If you ever get an opportunity to check out Krystle D'Souza’s bag, then you will find three electronic items. What are they? Well…an iPhone, iPad and BlackBerry phone. The 22-year-old also actress does not believe in the old maxim that gizmos are not a girl thingy. In fact, she is well-versed with the latest gadgets and technology. Carry on,
Krystle!
Hi-tech: Krystle D'Souza
It was all but a joke that laid the foundation of Anas Rashid's career in the showbiz industry. The actor, who is currently seen as Suraj in Diya Aur Baati Hum, never had any dreams of venturing into television, but when he won the Mr Punjab contest in 2003, he decided to try his luck in Mumbai as he was offered many music videos because of his good looks and physique.
Stroke of luck: Anas Rashid
Kajol has started dressing up these days and we are very surprised. Recently, she wore a pink gown to a magazine bash and the strap of her gown kept slipping. It was not fitted well. So she walked out of the event soon after her arrival and spoke to Manish Malhotra on her way out. She even said that her gown was annoying her.
Slip up: Kajol
Dino Morea and Bipasha Basu might team up again for Raaz 4. Life will come a full circle for them if that happens. The two used to be lovers but are very good friends now and have no problems working with each other. They even saw Raaz 3 together.
Re-united: Dino Morea and Bipasha Basu
Shah Rukh Khan trained in a new technique called VIPR (Vitality, Performance and Reconditioning) with Prashant Sawant for his look in Jab Tak Hai Jaan. The result is that he looks fitter and younger and feels more energetic! Great going!
New look: Shah Rukh Khan
Katrina Kaif got very angry recently. She was shooting for a soap ad in a bathtub and everything was great until the director said something that annoyed her. He asked her to pose and emote a little seductively. She lost her cool and then the shoot had to be wrapped up quickly! Phew!
Cat call: Katrina Kaif
Best of both the worlds
Ranbir Kapoor had said that making a good film was more important than making a Rs 100 crore film and he felt he could not do it. Well, he has broken records! His love story with a different premise has grossed Rs 100 crores in ten days worldwide! The movie, Barfi is a rare example of critical acclaim and box office success! How wonderful!
Rare combination: Ranbir Kapoor
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ASTRO TURF
ARIES: The Emperor gets you in touch with your leadership qualities. Today your best approach is not to confront people, but to go about your own tasks with dedication. You need to take frequent breaks at work. Tarot message: Be firm in extracting a commitment. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 29.
TAURUS: The third eye of Lord Shiva opens for an infinitesimal moment to instigate a major transformation. You have a renewed sense of enthusiasm. Keep away from another Taurus person at work. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance.
Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 32 GEMINI: The Moon takes you through a difficult Karmic situation today. You must address them even though there is a dark underside to them. You're challenged to turn around questionable circumstances for the better. Tarot message: Be active to spot financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number:
47 CANCER: You draw The Ace of Cups that brings beauty, pleasure and happiness. Subtle pressure within organisations or even on friends seems necessary to get things done. You should also pay attention to your motives. Tarot message: It is the thought that counts, not the price tag. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 45 LEO: The Lovers inspire you to climb new heights and actualise creative ideas. There are shake-ups in relationships today. Spending money or saving money could be today’s dilemma. Tarot message: It is best to get a clear perspective before making important decisions.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 51 VIRGO: You make an impact and shine like The Star. You may take the lead today; set the pace and control the emotional agenda. Unwanted distractions should be ignored. Attend to odd jobs in the evening. Tarot message: Work could pose minor difficulties, but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 33
LIBRA: The wheel of fortune brings some good fortune. Today you are capable of handling more than two or three situations at the same time. A partner can be a stabilizing influence; listen to practical advisors. Tarot message: Be sure of involving yourself in a new project. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 58 SCORPIO: The Priests usher in a pure, exalted and gracious influence. Shut down the Internet; leave e-mails for another day. You are in a confused situation, where you do not exactly agree with what you've been taught. Tarot message: Try to relax and put aside your cares. Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 61 SAGITTARIUS: Nine Golden Cups indicate happiness. After an active night, you might appreciate a peaceful day. You're in a position to stir things up but be very careful about arousing a reaction against what you're doing. Romance adds flavour. Tarot message: Retain the fruits of your hardwork. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 27 CAPRICORN: The Queen of Wands allows you to achieve professional success with calm authority. You can blend logic to come up with creative directions. You have a charisma that inspires others. Watch what you eat. Tarot message: Try to complete pending tasks. Lucky colour: Rainbow pestles. Magic number: 39 AQUARIUS: The Queen of Swords brings mental clarity and perspective in a chaotic situation. You work best with people who share a common vision. You focus on what you want and let those with different ideas go their way.
Tarot message: Take care of work portfolios. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 42 PISCES: Three Wands representing the universal - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh - greet you today. You are able to establish your business . You easily become enthusiastic, but you must stay grounded. Tarot message: Do not play into the hands of a shrewd set of colleagues. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 34
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THE YEAR AHEAD
If your birthday is September 27...
This birthday adds a tone of selflessness and humanitarianism to your life. You can work very well with people, but at the same time need time to rest and meditate. You'll be able to resolve conflict with a troublesome superior who has blocked your ambitions. You will tend to isolate yourself to find inner peace. The stars suggest confiding in someone and involving your loved one. Unusual dreams are disrupting your sleep. This is your subconscious, urging you to flex your creative muscles; whether it's something as simple as baking a cake or as complex as shooting a film is immaterial. The important thing is to explore your artistic impulses. You don't have to make money from a project for it to have value. In fact, work becomes more precious when you do it for love. Turn a deaf ear to an expert who disapproves of your technique. Work area will bless you with flexible returns. Personal relationships may yield moderate results. Worries over health are possible. Medical expenses for family members are on the cards. Some good news will cheer you up as you'll realise the excellent opportunities for professional growth. You'll also be able to solve some pending problems. Mercury will favour dialogue and you'll express yourself gently to your beloved. Things will go smoothly and you won't need any help whatsoever. You'll be able to meet new people and flirt with a new acquaintance. As a Libran born on September 27, some of your positive traits are that you are diplomatic, urbane, romantic, charming, easy-going, sociable and idealistic. On the negative side, you are indecisive, gullible, flirtatious and self-indulgent. Chances of unnecessary disputes are there; try to avoid them. Things can be challenging at the work front. Pay attention to your instincts as they will not lead you astray. Listen to your inner voice, especially what it tells you about others. You may need to keep information about your personal life to yourself because there might not be friendly people around. Pay attention to your duty and avoid gossip-mongers. Mood: Prone to 'suspicious thinking'. Compatible signs: Gemini, Libra. Lucky colours: Dark-pink, Magenta. Lucky days: Wednesday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 15, 21, 30. Lucky flower: Satin-flower.
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Popular it might be as a genre but House alone cannot hold the fort, whereas Honey Singh might set the ball rolling! Dancing is so much more than just a sport; you don’t fire in the air and put things into motion. “Once you’ve warmed up the gathering, play any new commercial number and that takes care of a lot of things,” says DJ KK, Chandigarh-based freelance disc jockey. Chart-busters are what do the trick if the city’s music fraternity is to be believed. He adds, “The most important thing is to get the people in the mood. Once they are in form, it’s easier to play a little experimental music for them.”
Why commercial music calls the shots is anybody’s guess! “It’s like junk food, which you want to have again and again.” Catchy lyrics, memorable chorus, easy melody; there’s too much going on in its favour. “That explains why Justin Bieber is a better bet than Bob Marley, even though we all know who the better musician between the two is,” laughs Mehtab Singh, the percussionist from Ludhiana-based band, Loud & Live. Nods DJ Sweet, resident DJ, Kava, “If you want them to hit the floor, play a chartbuster or a track with a bouncy beat.” He adds, “No matter what we play, with chartbusters people connect instantly.” No matter where they are playing, it is the peppy-tappy sounds that get the crowds going. “People really like dhol beats. As a race, we are accustomed to associating that with celebrations. The electronic instruments do not produce the same effect on people,” opines Amarvir Singh, aka AV, guitarist with a city-based band. The music for the masses is easy-to-understand, is coupled with infectious lyrics, connects with people and that brings them to the floor. Opines DJ KK, “By sheer experience in the industry, we know what will connect with the people. We play accordingly and get them in the mood. Commercial tracks are any day a hit.”
There are only a few people who don't swoon over Brad Pitt. The Oscar-nominated superstar will be next seen in Killing Them Softly. Based on the 1973 novel Cogan's Trade by George V. Higgins, the film centers around the effects of a mysterious poker game heist. Brad Pitt plays Jackie Cogan, a folk music-loving mob enforcer, who is called in to find the suspected culprits. The beloved star talks about his new role, the movies he wants to do, his family and his trip to India.
The very talented Shankar Mahadevan is all kicked to judge the new season of Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, which goes on air on September 29. He is also looking forward to this year’s franchise of the singing reality show as it is different from the previous ones in many ways. The other judges include Sajid-Wajid and Indian Ocean band member, Rahul Ram. We catch up with Shankar to talk about the show.
Actress Kangana Ranaut hasn’t been in the country as she’s been busy shooting abroad. She has had back-to-back shooting schedules past couple of months. Nevertheless, she’s been in the news for her rumoured break-up with her British boyfriend.
Actress Shilpa Shetty has named Olympic bronze medal-winning
boxer Mary Kom as the brand ambassador of the Super Fight League (SFL). Shilpa's husband, Britain-based businessman Raj Kundra, has collaborated with actor Sanjay Dutt for SFL, India's first professional Mixed Martial Arts
(MMA) event. It will be launched once again on October 12. SFL is the only Pro MMA sporting event in India to be live-streamed across the globe. SFL will see both male and female
fighters.
Supporting role
Gizmo freak
Chance encounter
The makeover of Kajol
History repeats
Fitness fad
Angry young woman
You share your birthday with
Ravi Chopra (September 27, 1946), producer and director of films such as Zameer, The Burning Train, Baghban and Baabul. He has also directed the highly successful television serial, Mahabharat, and the television mini-series, Ramayan, which was aired in 2002. Ravi is the son of movie producer-director BR Chopra, nephew of producer-director Yash Chopra and cousin of actor Uday Chopra as well as writer-director Aditya Chopra.