|
|
|
|
|
When music takes the charge
A couple of remix credits, a few Bollywood soundtracks, throw in some background scores and that's a screaming proof of how you've arrived and are licensed to throw starry tantrums. The Midival Punditz, instead let the audience call the shots. "We don't know what we are going to play, we'll see how the crowd responds and make changes accordingly. But otherwise, we might play some tracks of our new album which releases next year," shares Tapan Raj of Midival Punditz, a while before he is all set to give the ones at Blue Blazer, a taste of his kind of music.
Three studio albums, a remix album and compilations, perhaps, it all started with getting bored with the remix and Bollywood driven music scene in India. The boys started producing original electronic music and sending out demo tracks to labels and other producers. Rest, as they is history and here they were, all set to make the Saturday night of city goers. "We've been to Chandigarh before a couple of times and played at the Golf Club, where of course the crowd is more mature in terms of age and their tastes. Here, people have always been receptive to our kind of music." Speaking of their kind of music, there is an entire spectrum that he appreciates. Think Led Zeppelin to Kailash Kher. "You'll find all sorts of music in my playlist. Right from rock to Indian folk, to folk pop music. I like Led Zeppelin and I also like Kailash Kher. You get the picture," shares Tapan of the Gaurav Raina and Tapan Raj duo. Apart from the theme track that they've just finished giving to the movie Jalpari, including its English version Desert Mermaid, their album is what they are committed to for the rest of the year. "We'll try to finish our album by the end of this year. It has got a couple of tracks that are live songs, which means they are best played live because of the energy in them." Live performance is what the Punditz are best known for. Their touring across the world, is a live act that has room enough for jamming and innovating, leaving no two performances the same. He adds, "The album has got all sorts of music in it. It has Indian folk, Rajasthani folk, it has even got Punjabi folk music." While he may not be very clued in to the Punjabi music industry as such and the current scene, Punjabi music is what he is more than familiar with. "I am from Delhi and a Punjabi. I love the tracks and love the beats. In fact, we have given lot of such beats in our album as well," and he hangs up on a promising note. manpriya@tribunemail.com
|
|
Psychological balm
With the family system breaking down, people becoming more and more individualistic and working environments getting daunting by the day, our society is experiencing a change that we are not equipped to handle.
Dr Avdesh Sharma, Founder, Mind’s Vision, a Consultant Well-Being Psychiatrist, in Chandigarh for the Annual National Conference of Private Psychiatry, shares alarming figures, “In today’s times, the way we are going one in four people are prone to psychological illnesses,” says Dr Avdesh. Even more distressing is that we do not have enough psychologists to deal with the increasing workload. With no more chachis, mamas or cousins around to absorb the shock we go through each day, one needs to have a pro-active approach. “It’s not that difficult though,” says Dr Avdesh who has run successful series Andhi Galiyan, Mind Watch and Mann Ki Baat over the years. Healthy sleep — right dose at the right time, eating small quantities frequently and keeping your cool is the trick. “Sleep is important. Eight hours, from two at night to morning 10 isn’t as effective as 11 pm to 7 am,” says the doctor. He warns against getting angry. “One fit of anger and the negative reactions last for hours to come,” says Dr Avdesh. Slow down is the key to control. “I am not saying do not complete work; but step back when it gets too much,” he adds. And to keep one’s temper cool what comes handy is spending time with the family, friends and oneself. Keep a date with the self to reflect on one’s actions, priorities and ambitions. Doing all this is still no fool-proof guarantee to make you stress-free. “When work gets too much or relationships show sign of vulnerability, head to a friend or doctor,” he says.
|
|
The grand affair
Jaipuri paan Heirloom fashion List of venues |
|
|
Aish in no rush
It is highly speculated that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will be returning to films post motherhood with director Mani Ratnam’s movie which is an adaptation of Daphne Du Maurier's famous 1938 novel Rebecca but the report was fully denied by Mani Ratnam’s wife Suhasini. When she was asked whether Mani Ratnam has signed Aishwarya for Rebecca, she said, "No, its wrong."
Suhasini went on to add, "Mani is currently focusing on Kadal, which still has seven days of shoot left. He will decide on his next only after this film releases. It will take him eight more months after that to write his next script. So, any news about his future project that comes up in this time period is false." Mani Ratnam's spokesperson also refuted the story, "Mani sir is currently busy with the post-production work of Kadal. He's yet to decide on his next. The stories doing the rounds about his next film with Ash are just rumours." Many film-makers approached Aishwarya but the actress turned mom wants to spend some more time with her ten months old baby. Ash is in no hurry to return to movies and taking her own time. Off late, she has faced many criticisms for her post pregnancy flab but Ash handled the criticism very smartly. She has been recently appointed as the brand ambassador of UNIAIDS.
|
|
|
A big bash for Big B
Amitabh Bachchan turns 70 on October 11. Wife Jaya Bachchan has planned a grand bash for him in Mumbai and the invites have been sent out. This is his first birthday after the birth of granddaughter Aaradhya. The party will be held at Reliance Mediaworks in Film City, Goregaon, suburban Mumbai. All the details are being looked into by his wife of forty years.
So the event will begin at 8.30 and it is a formal black-tie affair with men in tuxedos. Everyone has been asked to be on time and leave their personal security outside at the gate. There will be a dance programme of Indian contemporary ballet based on some of the poetry of Harivanshrai Bachchan recited by Amitabh Bachchan. This is at 9.30. The events have also kept in mind the paparazzi's presence. At 10.30, portraits and sketches of Amitabh Bachchan by contemporary artists in a book will be revealed. The dance floor will also be opened after this and dinner will be served at 11 pm, which will have a spread of vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare. So it looks like a grand affair! Invitees include Shah Rukh Khan, Karan Johar, the Chopras, Rani Mukerji, Aishwarya's family, Preity Zinta, the Ambanis, several industrialists and politicians, and many other big names from across the country. Abhishek and Ash will fly down from Chicago especially for this.
|
|
|
Bold yet beautiful!
Bollywood heroines are far from being coy these days. They don't shy away from taking their clothes off for tastefully and aesthetically done shots in movies and for calendars. So take a look at some of the beauties that have stripped for the camera…
Pillow talk Bare dare Date with nature Simply hot Every now and then Going minimum with style |
|
|
Absent mark
Whereas, choreographer-director-actress Farah Khan reached Juhu PVR instead of Goregaon PVR where the premiere was held. Farah is now hoping to watch the film soon with her family. Health issues: Asin Splash of colours
A mode displays a creation by Payal Pratap during the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week in New Delhi. photo — PTI
|
|
|
Thousand shades of nature
Every journey leads to something a revelation or maybe a better understanding of oneself. Sanjay Kaushal’s exhibition on Ladakh started at Punjab Kala Bhawan on Saturday is a personal experience where each photograph validates the supremacy of nature, the tall mountains changing colour at every inch. Sanjay who took to camera as a passion has been travelling to Ladakh a lot, this time he came back with fine digital prints, each with finer details of the place. River Sindh, Thiksey
Monastery, Changthang plains, Sanjay has captured the stillness of the place focusing essentially on mountains that change colour. “I have done photography of many places and objects, it is the mountains that I love going back to. They remind me how small humans are in front of these pillars of strength,” he says taking us around his photography exhibition, which is a totally different experience. The reason for coming up the prints is to share it with people who have either been to the place or would love to one day. Sanjay’s photographs capture different shades of nature, shades of brown mountains that surround the Thiksey Monastery. The beautiful Hanle plains as seen from the monastery, a man standing alone at Kiagar Tso, one walking alone at Nayoma plains, the Shey village in winter and summer, Sanjay has tried capturing places in Ladakh, which tourists would otherwise not go to. “The mind is attuned to making frames whenever it sees something, and then in a minute the sound of click freezes that moment,” he says. Like the frozen Pangong Lake he has captured in his camera. On till Tuesday
|
|
|
Crusade for companionship
Early this year, on Satyamev Jayate, Natubhai Patel, a social worker was applauded for doing a very basic favour to the society. Not that he held a campaign or protested against any wrong doings, he just spared a thought for a neglected section of the society, senior citizens. He found company for people who were alone and didn’t have age on their side.
Aspiring to repeat the same, Chandigarh based Harish Gulati has started working for the cause of senior citizens through his foundation, Vedvarsha. “We want senior citizens to contact us and share their details, so that we can accordingly search a partner for them.” He says that more than the materialistic comforts, it’s companionship that matter to people at this age. Himself a senior citizen and businessman, he even got featured in Satyamev Jayate as one of those inspired by the show and who wishes to make a difference to people’s life. “I tried to get in touch with senior citizens who are all by themselves but there are a lot of apprehensions attached. They fear being with the wrong person and at this age separation and divorce is more taxing.” Considering these issues, Harish is also making arrangements to give legal aid to the members of his foundation. Background of applicants, their financial standing and reputation in the society will be thoroughly enquired about. Strangely, it’s not daughters but sons who have a problem with their parent taking the bold step. There are property concerns as well. And, even well-educated youngsters are not comfortable with the idea of getting their 70-year-old parent married or going for a live-in relationship. “The foundation will even organise seminars to educate youngsters about the same.” He is particularly bothered about safeguarding the interest of women. The initial response in the city, he knows will be lukewarm, but gradually people might become open to the idea. He says that residents of Chandigarh have a very high standard of living, which in fact puts constrictions on senior citizens. “They feel bound by social obligations. Even if children are well-settled abroad, it’s not easy for the to follow their heart.” And Vedevarsha hopes change it. ashima@tribunemail.com
|
|
|
Stewart
sweating it out
…
Actress Kristen Stewart has been working hard to make herself look sexy for Robert Pattinson. The actress has given up smoking and is barely drinking alcohol. “Kristen has barely touched alcohol since July. She’s given up smoking and taken up Bikram yoga. The new fitness plan has done wonders for Kristen’s body and mind. Even her skin is glowing," said a source.
"Robert just couldn’t stop raving about how fantastic Kristen looks. And she’s telling friends that she’s going to reel him back in with her body," added the source. The couple has reconciled following their split. They parted ways when it was revealed that Stewart had a fling with married director Rupert Sanders. Friends don't believe that this reconciliation is going to last. Reports claim Pattinson, 26, has issues trusting Stewart. "The love story between Robert and Kristen is still a bit of a conundrum, it’s a weird relationship” said a source. Despite claims that all is rosy, he is still not completely convinced that giving their relationship another chance is the right thing to do. "There are moments when he continually asks her questions about the affair, so it’s all still very tense. They have some really serious trust issues. "But they were brought together again by a great friendship so there could be hope. Robert thought Kristen was the girl he was going to marry," said a source. — IANS
|
|
|
Kebabs & more
Kebabs have always been there, originating in Persia and now finding a place in the menu world-wide. Kebabs are getting customised according to the regional preferences and thus developing a different identity and name. Curry, Kebab and Parantha Food Festival, which is being organised at Fortune Park Klassik, brings different kebabs and curries from different places.
Karela Kebab from the South, Jalli Kebab from Hyderabad and Galouti Kebab from Lucknow bring different tastes to the festival. According to executive chef, Vishal Chandoke, Mahi Chingri comes from Andhra Pradesh and the typical Punjabi Nimbu-wali Macchi too find a place on the menu. There are a host of interesting vegetarian kebabs as well to choose from, Mallika kebab made from lentils and Maggi kebab, an interesting innovation made from Maggi noodles are to name a few. With 18 non-vegetarian kebabs and 10 vegetarian kebabs, the festival gives ample choice for all palates. Apart from kebabs, curries are also part of the festival. Kolkata curry Machhir Jhol and Goan Fish Curry add to the variety. If kebabs and curries are not enough than go for Mughlai Parantha stuffed with egg, chicken or keema and seekh kebab parantha. For vegetarians, dry-fruit stuffed Peshawari Parantha, Malabari Parantha with banana stuffing give new flavours to the Punjabi palates. Desserts take the cake when it comes to innovation with malpua made from daal, barfi from sewaiyan, coconut halwa and onion kheer. “We have tried to add an exotic touch to the traditional, which offer connoisseurs and food lovers a good variety,” says Chandoke. On till October 14 from 7.30 pm till 11 pm.
|
|
|
Different strokes
Those who are ready to shed the familiarity of oil-on-canvas, the similarity of mixed- media deserves a mention, if not an applause. While the subjects spanning women, children, society, nature, animals and various inanimate objects, might be the same, their treatment differs.
“These works narrate the young artistic minds, their journey from one experiment to another. The idea of displaying this show was to let everyone see the beauty and force of the medium,” Sonal A Singh, the curator, underscores the point. She adds, “There are so many media that remain less explored. I wanted to collect and gather these artists and let their work communicate with the world.” The eight artists, all students of the Government College of Art, Chandigarh, come together to display their graphic prints in lino, wood cut and zinc. To begin with, there’s one that appears a fusion of print and embroidery. Shares the artist, Rajya Lakhsmi from Andhra Pradesh, “I am doing a specialisation in graphics. In this work, I used print and carvings in the wood, to render the slight effect of a hand embroidered piece.” The characteristic touch can be seen running all through her three works. Moving on, there’s a canvas titled Wood, in woodcut further displaying logs of wood stacked together. “For an artist, wood is indispensable. I tried depicting the significance of wood and also its beauty in the same breath,” shares Vikas Vaid, BFA final year student. Moving on, there’s yet another structure being reflected in the water; a subject like any other except for the fact, it was done using manboard, wood and acrylic, to render different effects. Apart from the extensive use of wood cut, there are works with marbles to give a different texture along with calligraphy and paper plate. From among the 24 canvases, a few stand apart, including Preeti’s Mere Ghar Da Veda. With a hand-pump in the centre, a cycle in its periphery, a container and a cart standing outside, it depicts the serene beauty of any household backyard. Shares the artist, “It’s a dry-point work. I tried to show that even these mundane things can be so beautiful.” True! On till October 24 at Hotel Icon—8, Chandigarh.
|
|
|
Benaf's travel diaries
ON THE GO: Benaf Dadachandji Egypt Malaysia Dubai Thailand Manila
A treat to remember
ALL BAGS FULL: Sukriti Kandpal
Holiday in Hong Kong
Acting pricey Our credible sources further went on to state that Pratyusha is continuing to act pricey on the floors of Balika Vadhu. The actress had a gala time at the Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa wrap up party. The next morning she turned up all groggy and grumpy on the sets of Balika....
|
|
|
The year ahead
If your birthday is October 8...
Your birthday falls this year on Shradh Paksha (fortnight of Shradhs spanning from September 30 to October 15). Do remember your ancestors if they left for heavenly abode on this day in any year. Donate something in the name of the departed souls. It's time to put a full stop to a relationship that isn't going anywhere. You're a very practical person. As far as you're concerned, support is important in friendship. You have more important things to do than waste time with someone who doesn't really care about you. On the plus side, you'll get encouragement from an expert in your desired field. It may seem like the phone is ringing all the time. Your friends may have quite a lot to say, so take out time for them if possible. Be ready for the unexpected in your neighbourhood and don't get caught up in money-based power plays. Just to live up to your reputation, you can't give in to any blackmail. You know how to keep calm. Minimize interruptions in order to make headway, but don't go entirely into isolation mode. The specific feedback you seek from people around can help immensely in decision-making. The sky proposes unexpected or sudden situations in the financial field. Expect to earn less, spend more, make bad investments and lose money. Youngsters in their first job shouldn't feel bad if they don't get the appreciation they deserve. You will fail if you cannot be more focused and determined. If you are having troubles getting motivated, you should think of how others will be hurt if you mess things up again. It is time you started thinking about other people. Vast improvements are likely, especially with the bigger issues. Spouse may seem demanding but if you fail to address needs, you may encounter bigger problems later in the month. Celebrations may be in order and a willingness to spend is called for. If you have some cash crunch the elderly in the family will be in a generous mood to help. Friends who have emotional issues may require your support. Those of you, who had been suffering from general weakness, will find relief. Youngsters might decide to go on a health binge. A moment of exquisite honesty draws you close to the beloved. If you're single, your relationship status may change soon. Mood: Inquisitive Compatible signs: Cancer, Gemini Lucky colours: Sea Shell, tan Lucky days: Sunday and thursday.
Gauri Khan (October 8, 1970) is movie producer and wife of Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan. She used to host a weekly Hindi music countdown show, Oye, for a music channel in the 1990s. Together with Shahrukh Khan, Gauri is part-owner of the production company, Red Chillies Entertainment (RCE). Not much is in store for her astrologically except a successful husband.
|
|
|
Astro Turf
ARIES: Love, celebration and romance are on the cards. You will be able to accomplish many things today. You are generous and giving in family and personal relationships. Tarot message: You shall prevent a lot of trouble by taking timely action.
Lucky colour: Yellow TAURUS: You may find yourself involved in noisy confrontations with close companions. If you feel one close relationship is tense, then you need to be honest. People at work are easier to handle. Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky
colour: Orange GEMINI: You do need friends around to make you feel loved and appreciated. You want advice about a long term relationship. Sweeping disagreements under the carpet will only make things worse. Tarot message: Don't get involved in silly problems. Lucky colour: red CANCER: Professional communication flows well. Negotiation brings favorable agreements. Take the chance to throw off all your worries and cares. Tarot message: Don't get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time. Lucky colour: Sea green. Lucky number: 40 LEO: Money you have been waiting for finally arrives. Don't be in too much of a hurry to spend. Be wary of making new commitments. Your may be heading for a permanent love relationship. Tarot message: Do not cover up your mistakes and keep the emotions aside. Lucky colour: Brown Lucky number: 33 VIRGO:You achieve an ambition through hard work and endurance. A happy event calls for a celebration. Essentially a busy day; rewards are received for efforts made in the past. Tarot message: Do not let anyone get the advantage over you. Lucky colour: Metallic grey LIBRA: Your relationships are especially affectionate and friendly today. This is a good time for partying, social gatherings and other pleasurable activities. A journey is on the cards. Tarot message: Must learn to accept responsibility for self and others. Lucky
colour: Black SCORPIO: An excellent day to take stock of your life and see how you are limiting and holding yourself back. Expressing your emotions and appreciation will strengthen the bonds between you and your partner. Tarot message: Take time before reacting. Lucky
colour: Golden SAGITTARIUS: You will be focused and alert at work and this will enable you to get through your tasks without putting in much effort. Those in creative fields will be have a very productive day. Tarot message: You will need to learn how to cope better with success. Lucky colour: Electric pink Lucky number: 36 CAPRICORN:Forgive a friend for an error of judgment despite the losses incurred in a speculation. You may be in a sensitive frame of mind. Trust others and go with the flow rather than swim against it. Tarot message: Boost your confidence with positive thinking. Lucky
colour: Peach AQUARIUS: You will be enthusiastic and optimistic about your assignments. You spend time in creative and sporty activity. Work has taken its toll on you. You have been totally careless about health and finances. Tarot message: Focus on your emotional and spiritual place. Lucky colour: Crimson. Lucky number: 46 PISCES: You will be energetic and confident about your abilities. Students need to focus more on their studies. Love and romance lead to lasting commitments. Tarot message: You are on the right track; don't allow others to interfere in your way. Lucky colour: Fuchsia |
|
| 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 | |
Asin is very good friends with Sridevi. She is down with a leg injury and so had to miss her friend's premiere of English Vinglish. She has not been able to see it at the cinema either. We wish her a speedy recovery.
Television actress Benaf Dadachandji, last seen in Zee TV's Chhoti Bahu, loves to travel to different places around the world. Before making a comeback to TV this time, she travelled to five different places -- Egypt, Malaysia, Dubai, Thailand and Manila. She was quite enchanted with the scenic beauty of all this places. Here is more by Benaf on her travelogue.
When it comes to sweets, most of the actors run away but surprisingly the entire Star Parivaar members were running for them. During the shoot of Star Parivaar Khushiyon Ka Tyohaar, chef Sanjeev Kapoor introduced his special Khushiyon Ka Maha Modak that he had made for the Star Parivaar members. "I didn't know where do I look at the brilliant chef or at the tempting Modak", said Sooraj aka Anas Rashid. This is not all, Indu Singh was so excited to try it that he skipped the queue and became the first one to taste it.
Love--hate relationship
A villain much loved
New role, new challenges
Kritika Kamra recently went to Hong Kong and had a fun-filled experience. She says, "Suddenly I got a call and learnt Hong Kong Tourism Board has invited me to visit their country. To ensure that I make the most of my trip, I just indulged in everything, from shopping, sightseeing, Chinese cuisine, theme parks to exploring the Chinese culture. The tourism board helped me with lining up of the major attractions like Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Victoria Harbour, Sky 100 Hong Kong Observation Deck and Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and the Big Buddha at the Po Lin Monastery at Lantau Island, Repulse Bay beach and of course lot of shopping at the famous HK streets and enjoying the nightlife at Lan Kwai Fong."
Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 15, 16, 20