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As GRAND as it gets
This is high-octane time; a long wait and then - zip, zap, zoom! It was probably Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel or the groovy looking Michael Schumacher whom you just saw. Turn around audiences - especially the ones who had watched re-run of all the races and zeroed-in on the right kind of clothes to wear for the occasion - the wait is over! It is back with slightly more paraphernalia this time; Airtel Grand Prix 2012 kickstarts a three-day tour of excitement, glamour, parties and of course racing.
Well, for those who wanted to be 'the first ones' to see a Grand Prix in India have packed their travel bags and are all set to occupy their seats at the second season of Airtel Indian Grand Prix. Back in Chandigarh, it has managed to create sizeable interest. We check out. Hold your breath The first season saw big names in Formula One, including Felippe Massa and Jenson Button, battle it out and this was precisely the pull factor - the stars in action. Munish Bajaj, managing director, Limelight Foods, who cheered for Fernando Alonso last year, is all-excited about the second season. He has heard that this Grand Prix will mark Michael Schumacher's retirement from the game. "I was absolutely thrilled to see the race live for the first time in my life. F1 is definitely a sport that can make you hold your breath and skip a heartbeat. This year again, I am looking forward to watching it with my friends." Munish is going for better deals this time. "The concern is to book a seat where the chances of seeing the drivers are the most."
So far so good With over 30,000 tickets already sold, the F1 fever seems to be catching up fast. The corporates are also making efforts to engage the youth with the game. Bharti Airtel, for instance, has started 'Join the Pit Crew Contest', which gives one lucky Formula One fan and a friend the opportunity to spend three days with the pit crew of Mercedes AMG Petronas drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg and catch all the 2012 Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix action - up, close and personal! Gaurav Kansal, Chandigarh-based businessman, has been following Formula One ever since he was introduced to it eight years back. "This is yet another chance to see the world best F1 racers compete against each other. I am a big fan of Michael Schumacher and eager to see how he performs. The other drivers I would be on the look-out for are Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button and last year's winner Sebastian Vettel." Grand Prix in India was big news and what followed last year was celebrities; Bollywood stars strutting down to watch the event with their big shades on and even at the late-night after-parties. That glamour goes with such an event is just a truism. Saurabh and his wife Nishi Aggarwal from Panchukla have booked their place at the event and they are hoping for three days of endless fun and parties. "Last year, we had to shell money to watch Lady Gaga; this year too we are expecting a bonanza." After-parties are one place where women sure can flaunt their designer clothes! Adds Nishi, showing her Neeta Lulla pick from Delhi, which she bought especially for the Grand Prix parties, "They were 'real' fun last time. I bumped into so many celebrities." Quiz her on the money spent and she says, "If he can take me to US to watch the Grand Prix, this one is still okay." jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Of sleeping babus & awakened middle class
As a rule, intellectuals lock themselves in an ivory tower unmindful of others for whom their concern and academic discourse is meant for. However, eminent writer Gurcharan Das revels in being a public intellectual, in short one who is easily accessible to public.
Not only is his writing peppered with metaphors that common man can relate to but his lectures too are marked by an eloquence that is as lucid as profound. So much so that he makes even the 'dry' concepts like growth and economics sound simple and interesting. On the occasion of the release of his latest book India Grows at Night the prolific writer whose non-fiction works like India Unbound have become bestsellers, shares many of his beliefs. However, he is simultaneously also making a requiem that India must grow in the day too. As it pains him to see much of the government officials do nothing but sip chai all day, predictably institutions like bureaucracy "once the steel frame today rated as one of the worst" come under his censure. Yet many like the Election Commission, SEBI and TRAI especially the first TRAI, that included men of stature like Justice SS Sodhi, come in for fulsome praise. As for Das' not so flattering assessment of the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, he says, "No doubt he is a man of integrity but let us not No one can dispute that he lacks determination."In fact, the will to do things is a quality that Das rates above all others. Often as the CEO of Procter and Gamble while recruiting employees he would place will power above intelligence too. Interestingly in times when moral values are going in for a toss, he argues the case for Dharma, the concept of which he has elucidated in his book The Difficulty of Being Good: On the Subtle Art of Dharma. Taking a cue from Mahabharata's moral dilemmas, he delineates the difference between public and private dharma yet presses the need for dharma as a universal idea of integrity as Yudddhistra would have dittoed and as Gandhi employed in public life. Indeed, he who has read Mahabharata in Sanskrit goes back to mythology for inspiration. Only he believes one book should deal with one aim of life. For his next book on kaama (desire), often confused with sexual desire he is going to study classical Sanskrit texts with two scholars at Berkley. Desire, he believes is elemental though it often goes out of control. But then desire is what makes us get up each morning, makes him write book after book, column after column with which he hopes to bridge the gap between thought and action, between sleeping government and awakened middle class. And if this middle class wasn't hungry, he wouldn't have found his fodder and we would have been deprived of wholesome food for thought. nonika@tribunemail.com
Born to be a writer
The moment Gurcharan Das passed out of the college he knew he was going to be a writer. Yet as his parents seemed uncomfortable with the prospect of unemployed Harvard graduate son, he opted for a more conventional job. And as he puts it like the man who came for dinner he stayed on and rose to be the managing director, Procter & Gamble Worldwide. But writing, his true calling, beckoned and he turned to it full time after taking premature retirement. Though his columns are avidly and widely read Das considers himself essentially a writer of books. Even though he has penned a novel and four plays he thinks non-fiction is his forte. Fiction taught him "how to tell a story" but he found his voice only with India Unbound. India shining
As Gurcharan Das hits the nail on the head seeking reforms in what he dubs decaying institutions, he doesn't think he is being unnecessarily unkind, only realistic. But pessimistic he certainly isn't. Reposing great faith in the growing middle class that is both angry and hungry and the fact that we are the second fastest growing economy in the world, he is positive India's future is bright. Hello Hinglish
Gurcharan Das might be a proud Punjabi who loves to speak in his mother tongue. But he is no chauvinist. Why he even hails the birth of Hinglish, the language of conversation of drawing rooms and FM radio. In 50 years time, he hopes to see a Shakespeare of Hinglish. |
Simply elegant
The youth brigade has a wide exposure when it comes to fashion. Fashion is transcending all barriers and we can see trends intermingling with each other. However, smart ones go for suitability along with style quotient. Young entrepreneur Harsh Paul Singh Takkar is all for studied elegance-- Your sense of style… For me style is another word for sartorial elegance enhanced by simplicity, making the person look comfortable. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories? A new watch from Tag Heur. Brand crazy or street pick-up? Not crazy but yes, I trust brands more and it also depends on the occasion. Your style icon would be? For sure it would be Robert Downney junior. Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? Abhishek Bachhan I guess! Which look would your prefer - sporty, chic or glamorous? Glamorous it would be. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension? Wearing slip-ons with skinny jeans. Your take on accessories? Only smart and elegant watches! What gives you a high on the confidence level? Good work out and a little bit of appreciation makes me feel confident. (As told to Poonam Bindra)
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The last straw!
Kandla Nijhowne
Cheese straws are popular little twisty nibbles, easy to serve with a dip or without. But the ones in the market are the last-straw! These shop-bought ones are bland, listless and tasteless. Horror of horrors, they are also cheese-less! The fat content in the commercial ones comes from vanaspati, not real butter.
Method
(Nijhowne is a culinary expert)
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The spa effect
Dr Vikas Sharma
Chilling out for a few hours at a spa might seem like a fantastic way to unwind and relax, but on sometime, it can have some consequences that are far from calming. Allergies and skin reactions: Oils, lotions and powders can enhance a spa procedure, but occasionally people can develop allergies to these very agents. It's important to let spa practitioners know about any issues you have, as well as any other outstanding health conditions. Don't forget food allergies either. Even if you have a past history of skin allergies like urticaria etc to certain food products, there is likelihood that you might develop them again even if these agents are used topically for facials and massage. Dangers for pregnant women: The main danger pregnant women have to watch out for is heat. Anything with the potential to raise their body temperatures above safe levels, including saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and other heat-related treatments, are all off limits. Massages are often not recommended during the first trimester, although well-trained pre-natal massage practitioners can manage it under most conditions. Hair bleaches and removal creams, aromatherapy and detox scrubs are usually considered a bad idea, but gentle facials, simple manicures and pedicures (without the accompanying rub if the person isn't trained in reflexology) and warm baths are all good ways to pamper a pregnant woman. Just make sure nothing contains any harsh products or chemicals. Aggravating medical conditions: Those with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, asthmatics along with people who have a tendency of recurrent herpes, fungal and bacterial infections need to think twice before stepping into the sauna. Since all that dry heat can make skin breathing difficult, steam rooms are often a much better option. People with medical conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes also need to be careful when they visit a spa. Some activities, such as those that use heat like steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs, can be dangerous and could make them ill. It's always smart to disclose any skin and internal conditions. Risk of infection: Infection is a real risk in the spa industry. While many spas run a nice clean environment and take proper safety precautions, unfortunately not all spas live up to those standards and the conditions are perfect for bacteria and fungi to flourish. It requires constant vigilance to keep things clean. Diabetics need to be especially cautious about getting a pedicure, foot infections can have serious consequences for people with diabetes. Any break in the skin, potentially from aggressive trimming of a callous or cuticle, can increase the risk of foot infections called cellulitis. Chronic and acute conditions aside, all spa-goers need to be alert to the potential risks that may lurk in the very spas intended to relax us. Poor water quality can translate into a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Indeed, outbreaks of community-acquired infections from spas have occurred. And, if you have any open cuts or abrasions, cancel your appointment until they clear. (Dr Sharma is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist & dermato-laser surgeon)
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Jack of all trades
The family tree
It’s over!
British reality TV star Katie Price has called off her engagement to Argentinian model Leandro Penna.
The 34-year-old glamour model-turned-businesswoman has dated the hunk since they met at Elton John's Oscar party in Los Angeles last year and they became engaged in April this year. They have now decided to go their separate ways, but Price is adamant they remain the “best of friends”, reported a publication online. Announcing the split on her website, she wrote, “Leo and I have had a lovely fun time for a couple of years, we will always feel a deep affection for each other, but sometimes relationships just run their course. Pressures of work on different continents, natural demands of family ties, and careers, have meant we have spent a huge amount of time apart even when we were in the same country. This meant it was difficult for the relationship to move forward,” she said. Price was previously married to Australian singer Peter Andre and cage fighter Alex Reid. — PTI
Jessica Biel wants to have babies
It has been less than a week since Jessica Biel tied the knot with fiance Justin Timberlake and the actress is already thinking about having children.
The 30-year-old is reportedly keen to start a family with the singer-and-actor soon, reported a publication. “Jessica's hitched and now she's ready for a baby, as soon as possible. After her dream Italian wedding, Jessica told Justin she is ready to have his children and she wants him to start thinking about building a family too. Jessica has been gearing up for motherhood for a while, but being the traditionalist she is, she wanted to wait until after she got married. She is planning for two kids, ideally a boy and a girl, because she grew up with a younger brother herself and believes it's healthy to have siblings,” a source said. The couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in Italy in the presence of close friends and family. —
PTI
Cross connection!
Bollywood celebrities seldom reveal the name of their co-stars or fraternity members that they have a crush on. Hollywood crushes are openly discussed as they are a safe route to take. We tell you Hollywood favourites of Bollywood celebrities.
Preity Zinta likes Tom
Cruise: She had a big crush on him after Top Gun, like millions of women around the world. She was thrilled to meet the superstar at Anil Kapoor's party in December 2011. A hush affair Sonam Kapoor likes Leonardo
DiCaprio: The vivacious girl has the hots for Leonardo DiCaprio. She doesn't talk about her relationship with Punit Malhotra but is public about her crush on Leonardo! The other man Kareena Kapoor likes Leonardo
DiCaprio: She is happily married now. When asked on a television chat show about whom she would cheat with on her boyfriend, she replied Leonardo DiCaprio. She finds him very hot! Ranbir Kapoor likes Jessica Biel and Halle
Berry: Ranbir Kapoor likes pretty women. He likes shapely and fit women and Jessica Biel and Halle Berry are right up his alley. Priyanka Chopra likes Robert Pattinson and Gerard
Butler: Priyanka loves mush so she loves Twilight and Robert Pattinson is the best thing about Twilight. She also finds Gerard Butler good-looking so we wonder why she did not date when he openly declared his fondness for her.
Amrita Arora names baby boy Rayaan
Actress Amrita Arora, who welcomed her second son with husband Shakeel Ladak last week, has named the child Rayaan. The 31-year-old already has a two-year-old son Azaan.
“I bring my son Rayaan home on the auspicious occasion of Dusshera. Have a super day guys cos we have double celebrations in my house (sic),” she tweeted. The actress was last seen in a supporting role in 2009 film Kambakth Ishq. The same year she tied the knot with her long term beau Ladak. — PTI
Back to pavilion?
Katie Holmes is reportedly thinking of reuniting with ex-husband Tom Cruise if he decided to leave Scientology.
Earlier this month, reports claimed the Hollywood actor was considering ditching the church if it meant possibly reuniting with Katie and his daughter Suri. And now even Holmes is hoping for the same, reported a magazine. “Katie is a sucker for the big romantic gesture. Tom swept her off her feet the first time around, and if he goes ahead and leaves Scientology for her, that would be seriously tough for her to resist,” a friend said. Holmes filed for divorce from Cruise in June this year. Since their divorce, the 50-year-old actor has reportedly been suffering from lack of contact with his six-year-old daughter. Holmes - who was raised a Catholic - reportedly didn't want Suri to be sent to a special Scientology camp or to be taught at one of the religion's schools. “The religion is the biggest thing in his life. If he left that behind for her, it would be immense. But it seems that may be what he's talking about doing. He misses Suri like crazy,” the source added. — PTI
Smiling is the key to staying slim: Jennifer
Former Friends star Jennifer Aniston says that smiling all the time keeps her happy and slim. The 43-year-old, who is engaged to actor Justin Theroux, has learnt that dieting is no longer important to keep trim, and instead likes to spend time in the sun with a big grin on her face, reported a publication.
“I stopped dieting when I figured out that you just have to eat regularly and properly within moderation. The fads are too much. I think it's really about - honestly, this is going to sound silly - going in the sun for 20 minutes a day is really important, Vitamin D, because we are now having a Vitamin D deficiency because of all the SPF. And I think it's about being happy and smiling and laughing a lot,” she said. —
PTI
The turning point
The true picture
Aamir Khan starrer Talaash has been shot in nearly fifty real locations in Mumbai and not even one set has been used. It has been shot in places in Town (South Mumbai) like Grant Road, Colaba, Lower Parel, Worli, etc.
Making waves
David Dhawan is proud of his son Varun Dhawan's work in Student of The Year and even Amitabh Bachchan praised his work through social media. The newcomer is delighted.
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Up for a cause
Ashmit Patel and Madhura Naik, The judge and host of Bindass Superdude spread the message, "Cages are not for the birds!" You've seen Ashmit Patel and Madhura Naik sizzle on the silver screen. They recently campaigned together for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. Dressed in white attire and wings to resemble birds, one perched atop a bird cage while the other held a placard that read, "Let birds fly free. Don't cage them." The message they want to convey is, "Those birds were born to be free and locking them up in cages and denying them their freedom and the opportunity to fly is cruel." The compelling ad was shot by leading photographer Gaurav Sawn at Mehboob Studio in Bandra and the stunning outfits were designed and styled by Urmi Daga and Hemal Ved "We all want freedom, so does a bird - whether it's freedom of expression or the freedom to fly, people who let these beautiful creatures soar to the skies are truly the Superdudes", said Ashmit. Adding further Madhura said, "The sky is the only limit for these birds, we must let them fly more."
Guests of honour
It is the time of Chaniya-Choli in Gokuldam society in the serial Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chasmah. Since TMKOC has always believed in something unique, so this time too they have Chinese people coming over to play dandiya. As usual, garba queen Dayabain (Disha Vakani) is all set to teach her Chinese bhen and bhai her steps of garba. "All 'our' Chinese ladies would dress up in traditional clothes in chaniya and choli. They will wear silver oxide jewellery like ours. I am very eager to see these Chinese ladies attired in chaniya choli dancing in Gokuldham Society. They are very sweet people", says Disha Vakani. These guests have come all the way from China, to celebrate Navratri. What does our Jetha bhai has to say about this? "This is a very creative thought and I am sure people would love this double tadka of garba", says Dilip Joshi.
For the love of dance
Kushal Tandon aka Virat of Ek Hazaro Mein Meri Behna Hai feels dance is a great way to let loose and express feelings. During the sangeet scene in the show last week, he was the first to arrive on the sets and last one to leave. He kept on practicing his moves till the wee hours before the rest of the crew arrived. And this dedication towards dance, has earned him not just accolades from his team, but also an entry into India's most respected dance-reality show for couples Nach Baliye. Yes, it's true! One of television's favourite actors, Kushal Tandon along with his Brazilian partner have been approached to participate in the next edition of the show.
Height of fear
Each one of us has a phobia. Some are bold enough to face them while others choose to stay away from it. Some of us are frightened of water, insects, darkness, loneliness and many more. The gorgeous Aamna Sharif also suffers from one. Aamna has a fear of heights also known as Acrophobia. A source from the sets informed us that while shooting for her show, Hongey Judaa Na Hum, she had to use the ladder on the roof and that left Aamna petrified. She tried to use the ladder but even after numerous trials, every effort of hers failed. A very frightened Aamna informed the production team that she was unable to perform the scene in one take and requested the team to help her out with her phobia. Her co-stars Aamir Ali and Raqesh Vashisht too jumped in to help her cope with her fear. Hope she will get over Acrophobia.
When Falguni took the stage…
Navratri and Falguni Pathak go hand in hand. In these nine days celebration dance and song is a must. Recently on the sets of Star Dandiya: Dhoom Machi Dhoom, Falguni's melodious voice took the entire crew by storm. While she was brought on stage amidst a lot of cheer, famous faces like, Ahem, Gopi, Manorama mami, Anjali, Kokilaben, Rashi, Jigar and many more couldn't control their excitement.
They all were dancing and climbed the stage to do garba. "I couldn't believe that I got a chance to share the same stage as Falguni ma'am. It was an unbelievable experience and I am definitely going for one of her performances in the city," says Roopal Patel aka Kokilaben. Watch the show on Sunday, October 28 on Star Plus.
In denial mode
Match-making for Preity
Priety Zinta, the dimpled beauty who is all set to make her comeback in Bollywood with Ishq in Paris did reveal a thing or two on the latest episode of UTV STARS' Live My Life, wherein she gave her biggest fan, Mandeep Singh, a chance to live her life for an entire day. Mandeep asked Preity about what is it that she likes in a man. Mandeep suggested "Salman Khan!" Preity couldn't stop blushing at this.
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Astro turf
ARIES: Relax with your beloved in the evening; it is the best antidote for the trials and tensions of the day. Someone you are attracted to at work reciprocates to your feelings. It is for you to make the first move. Tarot message: Take limited risks while speculating. TAURUS: Today is the day for excitement and extraordinary work. Conquer your fear and take a chance. You may be worried and concerned about certain family issues and need time to sort things out. Tarot message: Outline your goals ahead of time. GEMINI: The Queen of Pentacles blesses you with the finest qualities today. Things happen quickly and you need to take immediate decisions. You are sharp and ready to grab opportunities. Tarot message: Don't accept situations you dislike. CANCER: There is good news on the cards. You will be in a relaxed and happy mood. If you need to make any personal decisions, go with your gut feeling. Be wary of internet purchase from unknown website unless you are sure. LEO: The wisdom of The Hermit inspires you to make new beginnings and move in a creative direction. Have fun with family. A casual conversation can lead to romantic times. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky colour: Forest green. Magic number: 46 VIRGO: The Magician conjures up some travel and business opportunities. Partnership, business problems and past disappointments need your attention today. Stop waiting for the right time to attend to them. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition. Lucky colour: Sky blue. Magic number: 54
LIBRA: A fine time to make a public speech or presentation. Business deals will take some time to materialise. By evening you can be in an irritable mood and will be prone to losing your temper with friends and family. Tarot message: Avoid frictions with business partners. Lucky
colour: Brown. SCORPIO: It looks like a very busy day ahead but you will have ample time to party and catching up with friends. You will work hard to maintain a sound relationship. Your chances of success are better today than ever before. Tarot message: Be firm and stand your ground. Lucky
colour: Pink. SAGITTARIUS: The Prince of Wands rides in his flaming chariot of gold to instigate dynamic changes at work. Don't trust unreliable friends or relatives. Travelling will yield valuable information. Tarot message: Remember never to fall for promises.
Lucky colour: Purple. CAPRICORN: Today mixing with friends could be a tricky business. If you don't want to be alone, choose a companion who is least likely to irritate you. Don't get involved in petty arguments. Tarot message: Consolidate your gains instead of throwing security to the winds. Lucky colour: Grey. AQUARIUS: Passionate emotions are likely to accompany your actions and you might be more impulsive than usual. You will have a better chance of getting through odd jobs connected with home if you promote team work. Tarot message: Lack of confidence can leave you in losses. Lucky colour: Rust. Magic number: 45 PISCES: The Hanged Man helps you to move into new and better situation. Spirituality beckons and you are inclined to find more about it. You struggle to keep your temper in check today. Make a plan for the future and stick to it. |
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The year ahead
If your birthday is October 25...
Keep your patience as your continuous effort and understanding will guarantee success. Crucial decisions regarding investment should be put off for another day. Loved ones might be annoyed if you do not spend time with them. Sudden romantic encounter may confuse you. You would be full of good ideas and your choice of activities will bring you gains, far beyond your expectations. No matter how good you are at your job, it pays to keep on the top of new developments. Improving your skills will help keep you in the long run. Once you have learned something, you will never forget it! A person close to you will make an attractive offer. A phone call will bring back memories of the past. You will go through a nostalgic phase. In this particular moment, try not to waste energy in fighting but wait without forcing destiny's hand. If you learn how to adapt yourself to the situation in hand by coming to an agreement, you will obtain great well-being and assured success. A little more money is coming in, allowing you to buy some luxuries. Choose things that you will use everyday, like a gadget or a leather shoulder bag. It is fun to splurge on expensive art, clothes and jewellery, but such possessions don't have much practical use. Make your money work for you. If you are going for a new job, ask for a handsome salary package. You are in an extremely bold and resourceful mood. You want to throw yourself into anything that takes your fancy. This might be a good thing if you are meek or a disaster if you are too reckless. Don't do anything foolish or dangerous even if it seems like a good idea at that time. Get people on board and spring into action. Poor management of your duties could lead to problems. Try and look for solutions, you will find many. If you belong to the second generation, you will benefit from the many opportunities that will come your way. The only thing you should worry about is getting stuck in a rut. If you can break free of your shackles, you can really fly. Some traditions need to end before you can start on a better platform.. A small battle could turn into a major war if you allow the fire of the pent up emotions to get out of hand. Channel your feelings carefully. Mood: Growing more vulnerable as the week unfolds Compatible signs: Gemini, Aquarius Lucky colours: Sea Green and Silver Lucky days: Tuesday and Saturday. Lucky numbers: 6, 11, 15, 23, 30
Navneet Nishan (October 25 ,1965) is best known for her role as Tara in the television series Tara. She has acted in a number of Punjabi movies as well. Nishan has worked in movies like Dilwale, Waaris, Yeh Lamhe Judaai Ke, Raja Hindustani, Akele Hum Akele Tum, Mela, My Name Is Khan. Navneet has better scope in writing and directing as her stars indicate.
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Glitz & glam 
Just as the rather quirky title of India Grows at Night suggests, he does believe the government that sleeps at night has little to do with India's growth story. 
Meet and greet 
Top of the line 
Hit and run! 
