IT’S A BEAUTIFUL DAY
Where hills are the therapy...
Mona


The ultramodern cable car and an open lounge.

An eight-minute ride over river Kaushalaya in an ultramodern Swiss cable car that channels air-conditioning and music by solar energy, kind of prepares one for what awaits at Moksha, Himalaya Spa Resort. The slow moving all-glass car cuts the fog en route the resort where nature meets modernity.

At around 35 minutes drive from Chandigarh over the Himalayan Expressway, Parwanoo, Timber Trail's Moksha offers a serene sanctuary with world-class wellness treatments. The air has a nip; lush greenery houses tastefully done cottages, each accessible by a golf cart. Moksha offers a traditional welcome with tika and a refreshing mocktail. An azure infinity pool in the open maintained at 27 degrees and jacuzzi at 37 degrees under the flowing clouds is more than inviting. The spa, offers a variety of treatments right from Oriental, Indian to Western and their designated areas like raised platform for Turkish Hammam to low beds for Thai massage are wonderful. Just seeing the property is a workout in itself!

One of the best destination spas in Asia, Moksha has fully trained team of therapists. You can take a pick right from age-old Indian massages like Shirodhara to infra-red sauna. What appeals most is large spaces for treatments that offer a panoramic view. The lighting, the music and the staff is in unison with the kind of treatment being offered. Almost all give the option of a rain shower along with the regular.

At Moksha, you can savour Indian as well international cuisine with 'lite-option' for the health-conscious and Moksha Bar houses the best of liquor from around the world. And it's totally up to you whether you want to enjoy your meals in the lush interiors of a restaurant or the open seating in the misty surroundings. At night, you are in for a surprise. A beautiful view of the sunset and the resort takes a new form altogether. Low lighting illuminates the path, but never dazzles the eye. Under the clear stars, a bonfire offers a heavenly treat. The suites are a classic combination of natural wood and stone fitted with modern amenities. Nature is nurtured here; the pine trees are integral part of the structure.

What they offer

Culled from varied therapies, Moksha offers a range of Ayurvedic and Spanish treatments. Pannie, the spa director, brings her rich Thai experience along with two well-trained therapists from her country. You can pick up a wellness treatment from One Night Couple Retreat Programme to Detox and Rejuvenation or even Weight Management options, which extends to a few weeks.

What we recommend

Moksha Signature Experience that offers a four-hand massage performed by two therapists in unison, a blend of Thai, Swedish and Shiatsu rituals that afford a feeling of complete renewal.

Those yearning for beautiful skin can opt for Botanical Bliss, a signature three-hour treatment that uses herbs from their own organic garden. And that's not all; the guests on wellness treatments have special in-house chefs, who are trained to prepare spa food.

What you pay

You can stay at Moksha for Rs 15,000 (plus taxes) onwards per night or Timber Heights for Rs 5,000 (plus taxes) onwards per night.

mona@tribunemail.com

Tale tell signs
Ashima Batish

Master story-teller Xanthe Gresham uses props and gestures to blend education with entertainment

Stories aren't necessarily a by-product of fantasy. These are an outcome of reality as well. But in this case, anecdotes work as an antidote, making the truth sound less bitter. On the same lines, Xanthe Gresham, a storyteller and performer narrates the story of weavers of Kashmir. She uses props and gestures to make it further interesting, thus combining education with entertainment.

She then tells a Jewish story to explain her point, "Once Truth went door to door explaining the difference between right and wrong. People instead of lending him an ear, started shutting their doors. Truth then saw Story doing the same and audience were glued to her. Truth realised the difference and requested Story to hide him in its cloak."

Xanthe belongs to the UK but the demographics don't limit her choice of stories. She has narrated many tales based in Iraq and Iran. That even includes literature by Firdausi. "Stories are a very powerful medium to educate people. Had that not been the case, the tradition of story telling wouldn't have survived till now. And it's something common to all cultures, countries, regions…" says the storyteller, who was at the British Library, to conduct one such session. She feels that stories have a social, political and economic impact.

Not just for children, she says that stories are meant for adults as well. She has read stories at the British Museum and trains students at the University of London in art of story telling. She works as a lecturer of storytelling and drama at the University of East London. For her, storytelling is the most convenient way to take people back to literature. "Once told, stories stay with us. We learn from these without realising what all we have gained." Her way of storytelling is also pretty interesting. The narration is singsong, exactly how she narrated the Kashmir weavers' story to the members of the British Library.

Now, she is planning to pick up stories from the Indian mythology that will have global relevance. Before going ahead with the plan, she wants to be thorough with her research. "I have to ensure that I don't misinterpret the facts. I attach a lot of weightage to statistics and facts, if they go wrong, the whole purpose of storytelling turns futile."

Fascinated by the fact that unlike Christian faith, Hindu religion is very matriarchal, she says, "It feels good to know that how spiritual figures are females."

The knowledge she gained from a cab driver does not surprise her, "Everybody has a story to tell. Stories are so much part of our life. They might be fiction in bits and pieces, but they merge effortlessly with our reality, with our present." Stories speak the truth!

ashima@tribunemail.com

Unchained melody
Sabia Talwar

DJ Tristan Garner
in sync: DJ Tristan Garner. Photo: Manoj Mahajan

The moment one hears the name Sunburn, there is an immediate connect with music and dance! The Blue Blazer, Sector 26, Chandigarh, in a tie-up with Red Bull Flight Club and Sunburn, on Friday invited DJ Tristan Garner from Paris to play at the pre-party of the Sunburn Festival to be held in Goa later this year. We catch up with the successful DJ Tristan Garner.

The first step

I'm into music since I was a child; started playing the piano at the age of six. Also, I was very much into technology, which helped me create music. I started with learning the nuances of different genres, then producing and five years ago, I forayed into deejaying. I belong to Nice, France, but moved to Paris in 2006 and Antoine Clamaran signed me.

The melody-maker

I learnt the art of creating music myself and two years ago started with my own production house. I have given a few single hits like Give Love, Caribe and Freedom. It was always my dream to make music and that's what I love doing; it is an incredible feeling.

Behind the console

I love to control the audience as a DJ. I generally play Progressive House, Electro and House. I try to observe people and then play the next track. Most of the time, I play my own compositions but when it comes to playing other artistes, I usually re-mix it and that too really fast!

Music is life

I will soon be out with my first album titled Digital Rocker, which will have a mix of Rock, Electric, House and many more. I think creating music is more challenging and the real test is when you play it in the clubs. When I started with deejaying, it was a very new thing in France and hardly anyone knew about it.

He's got the look

DJ Tristan, who is 27, not only looks good but is also a music producer and an amazing DJ. The young man is quite inspired by the punk movement, which is evident by his spiked hairstyle, ear-piercing, rings and a beaded bracelet. Not to miss, the tattoos that he got etched from across the world and one of them saying — 'music is the answer.'

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Writing his own script
Jasmine Singh

Actor Jackie Shroff talks about his upcoming venture Cover Story & how playing a journalist came easy to him


Jackie Shroff

This is a case of role reversal and for once, it isn't an easy one. Frantic calls to fix up an interview, long wait outside the vanity van, tracking, tracing, re-checking the Dictaphone…actor Jackie Shroff gets a real taste of a journalist's life in his upcoming movie 'Cover Story'. An adaptation of Dutch filmmaker Theo Van Gogh's film, The Interview, the film also stars Anjum Nayar.

Being chased by journalists all his life, it's the other way round for Jackie now. "It is the most interesting character that I have ever played. This is an unusual story that revolves around only two characters," says Jackie. Trying to interview a film-star, Jackie didn't have to struggle too hard for the role. "Throughout my life I have seen and been interviewed by all kinds of journalists, the questions they ask and how they plan to get a story. It was real fun playing the character. It was nice to be on the other side of the firing line," he adds.

For Jackie, who has been a part of all romantic movies, sitting on the other side of the chair for an interview must be different. He laughs, "Yes I know how to avoid uncomfortable questions. Just be your own self and that's about it." Jackie, who is being seen on silver screen after a long time, doesn't have television appearances on his mind yet. "I keep getting offers and many actors are engaged on TV, but I would want to keep doing some meaningful films," says Jackie Shroff.

His bindaas self, 'take-life-as-it-comes' attitude, Jackie doesn't believe in giving sermons, not even to his son Tiger Shroff. "I want him to go through the process of learning like I did. I am a journalist's son who went to make his own place in the industry. I want Tiger to see and choose for himself. I am always there for him and he is well-turned-out kid, who is open to learning," adds the actor, whose next project with Rajnikant Kochadaaiyan is something that is keeping him busy. "I am playing the main villain in the movie; there are a lot of stunts and it is going to be fun."

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Step in style
Jigyasa Kapoor Chimra

Wedge and platform heels are surely a toast of this season

Anyone who follows trends will tell you that you need to know the pulse of fashion to stand out in a crowd. So, as the season changes and you plan to slip into new shoes here's a little sneak peek into what the market has to offer for women this season.

Though you would see some new and old designs in the shelf, wedges and platforms are going to get a warmer reception this season. Comfy and stylish, these heels go well with skinnies, skirts and dresses too. "Practicality and fashion do not go hand-in-hand, but ballerina pumps are going to catch the attention, so will loafers and boat shoes. Thicker soles, patent leather and suede with some extra detailing are an added triumph," says an employee of Woodland in Sector 17.

Well, shoe trend for fall/winter is diverse with something for everyone. But if we generalise, than we see a wide range on offer which includes the floral patterns, denim look, buckles, flowers, ribbons and satin shoes to choose from.

"Reptile leather has long been a trend with shoe lovers and this craze goes higher during the fall, so this season too we will see some reptile skin in fashion but that will exclude crocodile leather. Other than this we would also witness patent leather and suede in vogue. And it's in bold colour combinations like red and black, blue and burgundy, orange that we will witness in shoes," says Sanjay, manager Shoe Tree.

Take me higher

  Though style in shoes will vary but chunky heels, is the trend to look out for.

Spike heels can never go out of fashion, that's why designers are always reinventing stilettos.

Low-heeled Chelsea boots are quite a rocker for the season.

If shoe designs can vary so do the heels! We even have the slightly triangular and chunky heels in vogue.

That's not all. Colour-blocking too has been used in shoes now and this has been brought forward by designers Mark Jacobs and Viktor & Rolf in their fall/Winter collections.

Talk of embellishment in shoes and there is a whole new world waiting to be explored. Just as we saw flowers in spring; the fall is all about buckles, fur, laces, metallic heels and glitter. Though lace has been brought forward by designers from their spring collections, it has taken a sexier avatar this time.

Another unusual trend that we are going to see this winter is socks with shoes. Rihanna made a public appearance sporting pumps with a pair of socks and now let's see how many people copy this trend.

Now, talking of colour, the trendiest tones for this season are black, white, stone, metallic, beige, burgundy, dark blue, chocolate, deep violet, khaki and red.

In the lanes of art
Mona

Enjoy street food, music and art at CITCO Street Art Festival, which opens on Friday evening at the Sukhna Lake

Thirty-five hundred feet of free space, lining the road from Sukhna Lake to Rock Garden, to pour your imagination in — it’s a dream come true for the artistes who got to paint this unique canvas!

As Chandigarh opens its first grand street festival, the nine artistes who got this rare opportunity are most exuberant. “I always thought of doing graffiti on a largescale but there were so many constraints — space, materials, supplies, funding — courtesy the administration, it’s finally happening,” says Deepak Kaushik, who along with partner Anshuman Soni is spearheading the project.

Artists give finishing touches to the graffiti near the Sukhna Lake.
Artists give finishing touches to the graffiti near the Sukhna Lake.

CITCO Chandigarh Street Art Festival has erected panels on the road that have graffiti. From Chandigarh and its landmarks – The Open Hand Monument, Rock Garden - to the culture of Punjab and the country at large, there is a host of things that meet the eye. Kathakali makes its presence felt as do the fonts in bold colours. “The freedom to let the imagination rule makes graffiti popular with any artiste,” says Vikas, who has done the same in Bengaluru, Delhi and Dehradun before. “I am all against people who spoil the beauty of public spaces, but art is beauty and we must stick to that,” he adds. Part of the ongoing Tourism Week celebrations, the graffiti has been a hot-spot for tourists as well as locals. “People haven’t seen anything like this before, so they are spending time admiring and getting themselves clicked here,” says Dharam Pal, third-year painting student from Government College of Art-10.

No restrictions

This work of art will reverberate with sound of music in the evenings when artistes will perform live. Street Food is another attraction; so savour the Punjabi delicacies as you stroll down the street that echoes music and flashes images!

(On Saturday and Sunday)

mona@tribunemail.com

First-day-first show
A fun-filled Friday

Oh My God (OMG)

Starring: Paresh Rawal, Mithun Chakraborty, Sonakshi Sinha and Akshay Kumar

Oh My God (OMG) is set on Kanji Bhai (Paresh Rawal), an antique shopkeeper’s life. Kanji Bhai begins to lose faith in God when a slight tremor destroys only his shop in the entire city. The film revolves around his simple lifestyle and his refusal to accept God’s existence. Soon he begins to fight all the priests of the city, until Lord Krishna (Akshay Kumar) pays Kanji an unexpected visit.

Good story

I really liked the concept of the movie, especially Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar’s performances. Overall, the movie is entertaining but the music is average.

Devina Khanna, student, PU

Comedy duo

Paresh Rawal steals the show once again with his amazing comedy act. Akshay Kumar has done a really decent job as Lord Krishna. I really wanted to see Paresh and Akshay together again and it was a delightful experience.

Gagan Singh, bank employee

Real on reel

The concept of the movie is different from a usual comedy flick. It shows somehow the reality of the constant battle going on between the believers and non-believers. The movie has good dialogues.

Rashmi Sahni, housewife

Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal

Starring: Shreyas Talpade, Om Puri, Nana Patekar, Paresh Rawal and Madhurima Banerjee

Johny (Shreyas Talpade) is afraid of everything and everyone. Born into the household of David (Om Puri), a local farmer and being the only son, Johny does what he’s best at, to help his ailing father… Nothing! The only thing going in his life is his love for Maria (Madhhurima Banerjee), the daughter of the village’s gunda and sworn enemy of David, Peter (Paresh Rawal). Peter goes to all ends to make sure his daughter and Johny never marry, until one day; hope comes in the form of Sam (Nana Patekar).

Laughter pack

Being a Priyadarshan film one expects a lot of comedy and with such a huge star cast a laughter riot is bound to happen. Paresh Rawal and Om Puri have performed amazingly well.

Jannat Singh, student, GGDSD College

Surprise package

Nana Patekar, who is known for his serious roles, has done a wonderful comedy act which is quite surprising. This movie is for sure a complete entertainer.

Ritu Sharma, house wife

Not that bad

I loved the movie because it makes you laugh throughout. Although the music is quite average but still it is a one-time watch.

Gaurav Bhatia, bank employee

(As told to Sabia Talwar)

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The Devil suggests that your relationship will be shaken and stirred. A temptation to overindulge might not be good for your credit card bill. So, be careful. Tarot message: Don’t forsake a new learning opportunity because of pride. Lucky colour: Turquoise.

Magic number: 56

TAURUS: Follow a good routine of exercise and diet to make sure you’re keeping up to the mark with health matters. Stay away from all intrigue, as it will come back to haunt your emotion and your relationships. Tarot message: Plan your life to avoid the in-built delays that come your way. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 27

GEMINI: Physical labour? Housework? This is the perfect time to get into it. Be careful with your financial situation. Students: bury your nose in books. Tarot message: There will be minor difficulties where work is concerned but don’t worry.

Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels.

Magic number: 30

CANCER: Flattery, charm and a willingness to be bold will bring success. An evening event could test your nerves. There may be some last-minute changes that will put you on the edge of your seat. Tarot message: Your determination to succeed will pay dividends.

Lucky colour: Saffron.

Magic number: 50

LEO: Single? You are about to meet that someone special. This is a great day for socialising once you get going. You will get invited to a lavish event that will make you feel self-conscious. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others.

Lucky color: Silver grey.

Magic number: 44

VIRGO: The card Ten of Pentacles promises self-confidence. So, trust your instincts today. You have the capability to cope with every situation. Just stay on top of your emotions if you want to pull things off successfully. Tarot message: Set the unpleasant set of events into motion. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 35

LIBRA: Lookout for opportunities to make money. Singles will attract someone new. An intimate connection with that special someone is worth pursuing no matter how difficult it is. Tarot message: Use your instinct to get into the top circle of power.

Lucky colour: Deep red.

Magic number: 46

SCORPIO: A restless and irritable atmosphere will pervade the morning. Avoid getting sidetracked or letting another’s bad mood sully your day. Take up the unfinished projects and enjoy the creative energy. Tarot message: Don’t be dismissive of advice from youthful origin. Lucky colour: Pink.

Magic number: 25

SAGITTARIUS: Stick to your work and avoid new territory because this is not a day for clear thinking or making decisions. An imminent journey can put you in emotional turmoil. Tarot message: Be articulate to prevent people from making their own conclusions.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 39

CAPRICORN: An enthusiastic mood is encouraged by your card The World. Nothing will seem too much and you are sure to help out those around you. Do be careful not to over commit yourself.Tarot message: Do not divest assets or transact in uncertain matters.

Lucky colour: Sky blue.

Magic number: 48

AQUARIUS: Finances and investments will take up a major chunk of the day today. This is also, a good time to deal with loans, debts and credits. This is a favourable time to deal real estate. Tarot message: Balance in all aspects is recommended. Lucky colour: Peacock green.

Magic number: 63

PISCES: Conflict between your private and professional life can test your abilities. Strong views on politics or the environment might entice you to get up and speak at a public forum. This could lead to bigger and better things. Tarot message: Emphasis on spiritual needs. Lucky colour: Metallic grey.

Magic number: 28

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is September 29...

The sign Libra in Latin means ‘balances’ or "scales." Often, a statue of the Goddess of Justice holding the scales or balances is erected over the domes of modern court houses. Therefore, you have an idealistic and generally peace-loving nature.

Your birthday on the 29th shows easy-going, sociable and civilized nature. You are good looking and have certain elegance, charm and taste. You are happiest when socialising and at the top of your social strata, you do whatever it takes to maintain a relationship. You are well-known for being objective and impartial. The number 29 reduces to 11, one of the numbers that often produces much nervous tension. This is the birthday of the ‘dreamer’ rather than the ‘doer’. You do, however, work very well with people.

As a male you are concerned about what's right and wrong. And as Libra women, you want to make use of charm and grace in expression. As an employee you are efficient, but require a perfect environment to work. In 2013, take care of kidneys, skin, lumbar region, buttocks and vasomotor system if you are above 60. You'll be ready to taste the joys of friendship. With the changing stars, you'll enjoy some silence. Avoid crowded places and unpleasant people. Your hardwork will be rewarded.

State of mind: Cheerful, insightful and confident.

Compatible signs: Taurus, Scorpio.

Lucky colours: Lemon-yellow, Baby-pink.

Lucky Days: Monday and Thursday.

Lucky numbers: 7, 15, 18. 22, 27

Samir SoniSamir Soni (September 29, 1968, London) who was an investment banker, made his debut in the Hindi serial Samandar. In 1996, he appeared as Ashok Mathur in Doordarshan's A Mouthful Of Sky. He made his film debut opposite actress Mamta Kulkarni in China Gate (1998). Samir shot to fame by appearing in the film Baghban and played lead roles in Basti and Kahan Ho Tum.

Doc Talk
Gem of a smile
Dr Pratibha Gupta

There are ‘smile gems’ which add a style quotient to your dazzling whites. Yes, I am talking about tooth jewellery. Having an impeccable smile is a must these days. After all, a smile can win over a heart!

Tooth jewellery basically means sticking small gems on to the surface of tooth to brighten your smile. These jewels are basically crystals mounted on a thin foil of aluminium. These are available in different colours (rainbow, sapphire, ruby, emerald), different shapes (likestars, rounded, diamond, heart shaped) and different sizes (varying from 1.8-2.5mm). These jewels are fixed on the tooth enamel with a dental adhesive and takes about just 15 minutes. Tooth bleaching, veneers, ceramics are basically cosmetic procedures to improve the colour, shape and size of teeth. But tooth jewellery is meant for decoration of teeth. These tiny tooth trinkets has become a trend in fashion industry because it is a painless procedure.

There are no chances of infection as it is non-invasive process, unlike body tattooing and body piercing and can be used for men and women both.

The good thing about inserting a gem in your teeth is that it is a reversible procedure. It will stay on your tooth as long as you want it. When you wish to remove it or replace it with some other colour or shape, you can visit a dentist and get it done. So what are you waiting for?

(Dr Gupta is a Panchkula-based dental specialist)

Chatter box
Jhalak of the students

Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan, the young stars from Karan Johar's film Student Of The Year were present on the sets of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. They were there to promote their film. The trio enjoyed their time on the sets with the judges and contestants and they put up a performance on stage too. Watch this episode of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa on Saturday at 9 pm on Colors.

Cast of Student Of The Year on the sets of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa
Cast of Student Of The Year on the sets of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa

Barun to quit Iss Pyaar Ko…?

Barun Sobti as Arnav Singh Raizada stormed into the hearts of audience and was applauded for his Angry Young Man portrayal in Star Plus' Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon? His on-screen chemistry with Sanaya Irani brought bigger accolades and became the most favourite jodi in quick time.

Barun's popularity scaled new heights when he bagged a role in a movie. He mutually got into an agreement with the makers of the show to take a small break so that he could shoot for the film. As promised, he got back and the drama element in the show picked up leading to a good phase in the story line.

A little birdie has now whispered that Barun has apparently put down his papers as he has decided to opt out of the show. And with this, the future of the serial is found hanging. Though confirmed reports on the status of the show is not known as of now, it looks as though it will be a tough phase for the makers and channel, what with the lead face of the show apparently opting out. We tried contacting Barun to get a clear picture, but he refused to talk to us as he was hard-pressed for time. When contacted, producer Rajesh Chadha denied the news of Barun quitting the show.

Final step: Shonali Nagrani Wedding bells for Shonali

At a recent event, actress Shonali Nagrani was spotted wearing a sparkling rock ring on her finger. When she was asked if she is ready for to take the plunge, the actress blushed. And of course, you would want to know who is the lucky guy? Well, she is getting married to Shiraz Bhattacharya, her boyfriend of two years. Shiraz is part of the band Pentagram and also plays for Shkabang once in a while, apart from directing music videos. The two have been friends for a while now, after which they started dating. The army kids, who were introduced through common friends (also from this industry), hit it off after their second meet. Aww!

Final step: Shonali Nagrani

Down with dengue

Hard time: Binny Sharma It’s time to pass some positive energy to cute and beautiful Binny Sharma. Yes, this talented actress, who made her comeback on Indian television with Sahara One’s show Tujh Sang Preet Lagai Sajna has been feeling blue off late. Seen as Meera in the soap, she has been suffering from dengue. She was admitted to a hospital earlier this week. She’s missing from the sets and everybody is desperately waiting for her to get back. Get well soon, lady!

Hard time: Binny Sharma

Demand for dates

Parakh Madan

Guess what’s happening at the sets of Niyati (Sahara One)? Actress Parakh Madan has threatened to quit the show. You must be wondering what made her take this decision? Well, according to a source Parakh is on the lookout for a new show. She needed to free her working dates from Niyati in order to take up other projects. So, she approached the makers and made it clear that they either release her dates (that are not being used) or she would quit the show. Let’s see how this drama unfolds.

Ashish’s nightmare

Everybody knows Ashish Kapoor is a fitness freak. The handsome actor, who is currently seen on Sony Entertainment Television's Love Marriage Ya Arrange Marriage is dedicated to his workouts. Ashish goes to the gym after pack-up, which means that it could get as late as 12 am.

Back and happy!


Show time: Vibha Anand

Vibha Anand, who is currently seen as Suman in Colors’ Kairi, was away from the small screen for a while after her last show Sanskaar Laxmi went off air. And during this period, the actress bagged a Bollywood film that stars Shreyas Talpade. However, this film was not the only reason for the actress distancing away from TV. In fact there is a different story to it. Read on…

What kept you away from TV?

After I moved out of Sanskaar Laxmi, I did not feel like getting back on TV. As what happened with Sanskaar was not fair. To maintain the TRPs, the story kept changing every now and then and finally it went off-air. For me, as an actor, it was difficult to understand what my character demanded with the ever-changing storyline. It was a bad experience.

So what made you take Kairi?

When the producers of Kairi came to me, they told me that they did not think of anybody except me for this character. Since I liked the story, I took it up. In fact, even after my decision of staying away from TV, I was in a dilemma. Hence, I did do a few episodes out of which one was for Gumrah. But, now I am back and I am very happy.

Are your fans appreciating your role in Kairi?

I received a message recently in which a fan asked me not to take up such roles as I would get typecast. But trust me, even I did not know that I was to play the role of a pregnant widow in Kairi. The story that was told to me was completely different from what I am doing. But I do not have an issue with it as my character here has a lot of shades.

Good acting, bad movies!

Sometimes, actors work really hard and give splendid performances in lackluster movies. So people walk out cursing the movie but praising the actor's efforts. We take a look at some recent movies in this category.

Kareena Kapoor in Heroine: The movie has received negative reviews and been criticised for showing nothing new. However, Kareena Kapoor has received unanimous praise for her no-holds-barred performance.

Deepika Padukone in Cocktail: Even though Cocktail is a worldwide hit, it is a regressive film we didn't expect from the makers of Love Aaj Kal. Deepika Padukone's knockout performance contributed immensely to the success of the movie.

Priyanka Chopra in 7 Khoon Maaf: Vishal Bhardwaj's movie was bizarre and boring. It lost the plot somewhere. Priyanka was brave enough to take on such a complex role of a woman who kills seven husbands and portrayed her transition effectively.

Karisma doesn’t follow trends

Karisma Kapoor has evolved into a style icon. She talks about style, fashion, Kareena, and movies.

Dressing sense

I wear what suits me and I feel comfortable in. I look for comfort always. I love shoes in different colours. I love wearing black and white outfits. I do not follow trends. I have my own sense of style. I share my shoes with Kareena and she does that too. We even discuss our diets. I don't gain weight easily.

Comeback ‘horror’

I did not look at Dangerous Ishq as a horror film. It gave me a lot of scope to perform because it was an interesting movie on reincarnation. I liked the film, personally and do not regret doing it. Bollywood is a gamble.

Sisterly love

Kareena did a splendid job in Heroine. The movie was written for her and nobody else could have done what she did in the movie. I loved her work. She looks more and more beautiful with every passing year. I am so thankful that we are close. She adores my children. I am so excited about her wedding.

KJo is a Salman fan

Karan Johar might be Shahrukh Khan’s best buddy but that doesn’t stop the filmmaker from expressing his liking for Salman Khan. Salman Khan has been the undisputed star of Bollywood for four years. His movies are sure to score Rs 100 crore and he has a huge fan following. Looking at his supreme aura, Karan Joar is smitten and he expressed his heartfelt desire to work with Salman.

Karan said, “I`m a huge Salman fan. I’m not just waiting; I’m dying to work with him. And he has huge fan following at my office. My writers and directors are a smitten bunch. They tell me, take your time signing him for a film, but please just call him to the office so we can interact, click pictures and chat with him.”

Salman and Karan shared a great camaraderie and had a good chat on the show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Salman worked with Karan long back in the blockbuster Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.

Daredevil Tusshar


Stunt time: Tusshar Kapoor

After trying his hands out at comedy, Tusshar Kapoor is ready to take to stunts in the literal sense with his upcoming film Shootout at Wadala. Despite being part of several dangerous scenes, the actor insisted on doing them himself minus a stunt double despite the crew warning him against it.

“Tusshar was part of a hi-octane action scene where he gets into a jeep in full speed and collides into a truck. Everyone on the sets explained the risks associated with the stunt and suggested him to go in for a stunt double to perform the scene but Tusshar insisted on doing it himself,” says a production source. Talking about the stunt Tusshar remarks, “The harnesses and all the excitement of doing such a risky stunt myself did make me feel like I had butterflies in my stomach but I was so kicked about doing something like this that I just put aside all negative thoughts. I just took God’s name and got into it.”





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