Destination Punjab
Ashmit Patel, who is making a debut in Punjabi movies with Dil Sada Luteya Gaya, says if the script is good, language is a mere formality
Sabia Talwar

It is always nice to begin a new journey with the blessings of the Almighty. And Ashmit Patel, who made a brief stop-over in Chandigarh recently on his way to Shri Dukh Niwaran Sahib, Patiala, is doing precisely that before kick-starting his journey in Punjabi movies.

Superdude Season 2 on UTV Bindass is running successfully and Ashmit says it has been a great experience. “Since it was the second season, expectations were high; this time we had a huge auditioning process in a bid to take it to the next level,” says Ashmit. We wonder what he defines flirting as! “It is just another term for talking and quite healthy; there is nothing wrong in flirting,” clarifies Ashmit.

Coming to regional cinema, which gets him to Punjab, what does he have to say about the movie? “The Punjabi movie, which I will be shooting for from November 1 onwards in Jalandhar, is titled Dil Sada Luteya Gaya. I signed this comedy movie because of its strong script,” adds Ashmit. Ashmit has also signed the sequel to this movie titled Jatt Luteya Gaya, so it is evident that he must have learnt some Punjabi. “Punjabi is a language that is quite easy to pick due to its similarity with Hindi. I try to pick up the body language of people in Punjab. Also, I am looking forward to some sumptuous food.”

Angad Singh, one of the producers along with Safire Real Estate and Arun Kapoor, promise that the movie will be a comedy riot. Says Angad, who belongs to Jalandhar, “Dil Sada Luteya Gaya, which stars Asmit Patel, Sudesh Lehri, BN Sharma, Rana Ranbir, Jividha, Pooja Tandon and Mangi Mahal, is a youth-oriented comedy movie that will be directed by Hardeep.”

And how did they manage to cast Ashmit Patel? “When Ashmit appeared on Bigg Boss we wanted to at least ask him whether he is interested in Punjabi movies. Later, when we approached him, he readily agreed and also came across as a very down-to-earth person unlike other Bollywood actors,” adds Angad.

On the other hand, Ashmit, who has just completed two of his Bollywood projects —Supermodel with Veena Malik and Saawariya with Sara Khan — says he is overwhelmed to work in a Punjabi movie. “An artist should never restrict oneself because of languages. I have done Hindi, English and Bengali cinema; now I am doing a Punjabi movie. I will soon be doing a French movie as well.”

The ‘Superdude’ is working a lot on his fitness and it shows! “My body is the temple of my soul, so I respect it a lot. I love my workouts. Also, I try to eat vegetarian food most of the time because it makes me feel much lighter,” adds Ashmit. He concludes with a word of advice for youngsters. “Nothing comes easy; so be prepared to work hard, struggle and face disappointments. Do everything whole-heartedly.”

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Lines are drawn
Punjabi movie Sadda Haq has not gone down well with the censor board. The cast and crew share their side of the story
Sabia Talwar

Saada Haq, a Punjabi movie scheduled for release on October 26, 2012, has run into rough weather as the censor board has rejected the whole concept on which the movie is based. A trailer, which has been passed by the board, shows titles like It’s time to know the truth, To find out the truth, Behind those painful days, There is an untold story and invokes quite a lot of interest.

The movie has been written by Kuljinder Sidhu, produced by Nidhi Sidhu and directed by Mandeep Benipal. Says Kuljinder, “We have taken two plots that talk about two generations and showcase the tragic history of Punjab — the first portrays the times of militancy and the second reveals the viewpoint of today’s youth pertaining to those times.” The crew highlights the kind of variation that needs to be brought in Punjabi cinema. “We fail to understand the reasons behind the rejection of the movie,” says Dinesh Sood, who plays a cop.

So is the title ‘Saada Haq’ somewhere demanding rights for some particular community? “No, actually it’s talking about rights and freedom for everyone. Religious issues are sensitive and need to be dealt with very carefully. If the audience can accept movies like ‘Black Friday’ and ‘Mission Kashmir’, why does the board raise objections with a movie that is just narrating a chapter from history,” says Kuljinder, who plays the role of a militant, Kartar Singh.

Bygones are bygones and raking up the past can certainly generate some hatred in the audiences, says Kuljinder, “Our aim is not to re-create the past, but history does repeat itself and past mistakes are a lesson for the present.”

sabiatalwar@tribunemail.com

Alps, chiffon saree & a lost dream
Yash Chopra wished to shoot Katrina in a chiffon saree
 Katrina Kaif
Dream act: Katrina Kaif

The loss of veteran filmmaker Yash Chopra surely has left a big vacuum in the Hindi Film industry. He was respected by all. There was not an actor who did not dream of being directed by him.

Though the last film he directed was Veer-Zaara in 2004, until Jab Tak Hai Jaan he produced countless films under the banner of his production house Yash Raj Films.

He returned to direction this year for the Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma starrer Jab Tak Hai Jaan. People assumed that the story would be a sequel to the 2004 release Veer-Zaara. However, nothing much has been revealed about the storyline and hardly anything can be guessed from the trailer that was released.

The film wrapped up shooting as it had been completed; however, a song with the patent Swiss Alps as background was still to be shot. Yash Chopra's direction of songs in most of his films always included his film's leading ladies wearing chiffon sarees which added to them a tinge of femininity and marked the celebration of womanhood.

Among the contemporary actresses of our time Katrina Kaif would have the privilege to be shot for a song with Shah Rukh Khan by Yash Chopra himself in his trademark style at the Alps, but sadly that is now not to be. This news was revealed by designer Manish Malhotra.

He tweeted, "We were to go to the Swiss Alps to shoot a song with Katrina (Kaif) in chiffon saris. He discussed the saris with passion and used to tell me that `I want you to be there at the shoot." He also added, "I will truly miss my most favourite director and incredible person that Yashji was... I knew him closely and have seen his passion for cinema, colours and costumes. Romance in Indian cinema won`t be the same without Yashji."

Earlier, it was being speculated as to who out of the two actresses of this film will do the song. This film is slated for Diwali release and will witness a star-studded grand premiere just the way Yash Chopra wanted.

Just a cameo

Actor Irrfan Khan's seven-year-old son Ayan has taken his first step into the spotlight, making a cameo appearance in the Hollywood film Life Of Pi, but his father insists he is not eager to push him into films.

The actor, who stars alongside Tabu in the Ang Lee-directed 3D film, says this is not the age for his son to act.

"He is just doing a friendly appearance as Ang Lee and the casting director wanted it. It was a friendly request so he did it. I thought it will be a different experience for him... just that. I am not eager to push him into films," Irrfan said in an interview.

He felt that given Ayan's tender age, this is not the right time for him to often face camera and start acting, instead he must explore his interest across various fields.

"I don't think he should get this kind of exposure at his age. It is not an age to face the hardships you encounter in cinema, you do things in a way you are asked to do it. Like doing a shot at 3 in the morning... they are too young." "It is time for exploration and not to decide what they should do. They should explore all fields which interest them," the 45-year-old award winning actor said.

As a father, Irrfan said he still does not know if his son has the potential for acting. "I don't know if there is any potential or not in him for acting. He has not shown interest in films." It is sased on the best-selling novel by Yann Martel, Life Of Pi. — PTI

Frank talk
Enraan Hashmi
Getting candid: Emraan Hashmi

Emraan Hashmi is the darling of the masses and he is known as the next Salman Khan because of his phenomenal box office collections. He talks about delayed films, production plans, and more.

Rush decision

I know actors don't go anywhere near delayed films. Rush was stalled because the producer lost money and then our director passed away. His wife wanted to revive the film. So I gave it my all. I couldn't have been able to live with myself I had abandoned it. Films are not only done for money. Emotions and feelings are also involved.

Banking on BO

I make and act in movies for entertainment. I love it and I am grateful that people step out to watch my movies and make them big hits. Commercial success is important. The serial kisser tag has remained with me and I don't like it. But it works so I am okay with it. I want the movies to work as a whole.

Production person

I cannot get behind the camera. I don't want to direct. I would like to supervise. I have a lot to learn and will get into production in 2014.

The Bhatt camp

I will always be available to work with them when the script is ready and good. We have worked successfully and the audience expects certain things from our association.

STAR TRACK

Matt Damon to play Lance Armstrong?

Hollywood superstar Matt Damon may be seen playing the role of disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong in a new movie. Top film studios are reportedly considering making a movie about the journey and downfall of Armstrong, who made headlines worldwide earlier this year, after being convicted of doping during his glory years by the US Anti Doping Agency.

Damon could be chosen to play the role of Armstrong, who became a hero before being stripped of his seven Tour de France titles in a major crash from grace when implicated in the doping scandal. — ANI

Why is Deepika upset?
Home front: Deepika Padukone
Home front: Deepika Padukone

Deepika Padukone is deeply hurt with reports that ex-beau Siddharth Mallya has bought her a house.

The actress says, "From the time I came to Mumbai I was looking for a particular kind of house. I've been used to a certain kind of lifestyle before I came to Mumbai. And I worked hard for it. Thankfully my dad has handled all my finances pretty wisely. Yeah, I am smart about money. To hear people take away from my achievements by suggesting someone bought my house for me and, worse, that I am going to sell the house is insulting."

She further adds, "Buying property in Mumbai is not that simple. I'm just getting used to my home, where's the question of moving out? I'm very proud of my house. It's been a year since I moved on. I wouldn't dream of moving out."

For the love of chicken
Sony Razdan and Alia Bhatt, Kalki Koechlin and Anurag Kashyap
Special appearance: Sony Razdan and Alia Bhatt, Kalki Koechlin and Anurag Kashyap

The special screening of Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana was held in Mumbai at a suburban multiplex. Ironically Huma Qureshi and Kunal Kapoor, who are the leads of the movie, were not there. Yet, the star quotient was very high with Ranbir Kapoor, the cast of Student of the Year, and A-list directors like Karan Johar and Imtiaz Ali attending it.

Ranbir Kapoor, the versatile superstar looked really happy and playful at the special screening. Esha Gupta, the stunning model-turned-actress made a stylish appearance. She was last seen in Chakravyuh.

Kalki Koechlin and Anurag Kashyap made an appearance too. Kalki donned a gypsy look. Anurag is a co-producer on the movie.

Siddharth Malhotra and Varun Dhawan, the studs from Student of The Year made their presence felt at the premiere.

Soni Razdan was happy to share the limelight with her daughter Alia Bhatt. Sweet!

Going places: Prachi Desai New deal

Prachi Desai has signed an endorsement deal with an international apparel brand and she will be the face of the brand. Her trendy appearances on the red carpet and at parties helped her bag this one and she connects with young people.




Going places:
Prachi Desai

Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma & Katrina Kaif Food & fun

Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif were at their entertaining best at a press conference for Jab Tak Hai Jaan at YR Studios in Mumbai. The high point of the event was that Yash Chopra's favourite Punjabi food was served to all the guests.

Entertaining package: Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma & Katrina Kaif

Flop show

Chakrayuh got decent reviews, Ajab Gazab Love and Rush did not get good reviews. All three films provided competition to each other and none of them have scored at the box office plus there were English releases. Student of The Year continues to score at the BO.

Praying for safety

Many Bollywood inhabitants are praying for the welfare and safety on the East Coast of America hit by Hurricane Sandy. We pray for peace and safety too.

Chatter box

The actor in action
ROLE MODEL: Anas Rashid
ROLE MODEL: Anas Rashid

Anas Rashid is a successful actor and has a superhit show Diya Aur Baati Hum under his belt. Yet he is humble and friendly. Here we catch up with him:

What has been your biggest achievement work wise?

All the characters that I have got suit my personality. That has been the best thing to have happened with me. I have got roles that suit my personality and help me perform effectively.

Please share an experience that you have had with a fan?

Recently I went to Rajasthan for an event and I met people who told me that after watching Diya Aur Baati Hum and my character they have learnt to support and help their wives at home. They are also getting them educated.

Who is your competition on TV?

No one. We all have got enough work and success depends on talent. 

What do you hate about being an actor?

I hate that there’s no personal life as we keep shooting all the time. We are stuck at work 16-18 hours a day and have no spare time to have fun.

What are your hobbies?

As a kid I used to love collecting bugs. I would search and store them. Till today I have a good collection back home.

Lifting the curtains
CONFESSION TIME: Sofia Hayat
CONFESSION TIME: Sofia Hayat

Bindass’ Superdude’s judge, Sofia Maria Hayat, finally comes clean on her relationship with cricketer Rohit Sharma. The media was abuzz with the news that the two were dating each other but neither confirmed the same. However Sofia, who has also done a Bollywood film, Dairies of Butterfly, turned to Twitter and accepted that she dated Rohit. “Ok let’s put the rumours to end..yes I dated rohit sharma.. now it’s over.. I wouldn’t date him again..this time I’m looking for a gentleman,” she tweeted.

Post the tweet, we contacted Sofia to find out more. She said, “Yes, we (Rohit and her) met a year ago. It was going well till the time press found out and he freaked out. He responded by saying I was a fan. This behaviour disappointed me for he had no decency to even call me before saying so.”

So what is your current status? “I haven’t called him since it all came out. Honestly I am not interested anymore. I just wish he had taken a stand,” she said.

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: The Prince of Pentacles infuses financial stability. You will find appreciation and applause for your culinary talents. Delays can be expected today. A happy surprise awaits you. Love stars twinkle. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of health. Lucky colour: Cherry-red. Magic number: 43.

TAURUS: Like the The Knight of Cups you are emotional in personal relationships and graceful on social occasions. You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold enough to speak out your mind. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous in business matters.Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 47

GEMINI: Plan some fun time with friends and leave stress behind. Today you will be quite amazed to find yourself taking on a more ambitious role. A brief business-cum-pleasure trip is on the cards.Tarot message: Don’t waste an opportunity by being rash. Lucky colour: Turquoise. Magic number: 44

CANCER: Ace of Swords pulls you in an opposite direction as far as making a decision is concerned. A yearning for overseas travel and adventure could encourage a career of your choice; remain focused. A celebration is on the cards. Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future. Lucky colour: Fiery-red. Magic number: 28

LEO: Some very interesting people come into your sphere of business and give you different ideas on how to go about financial matters. Avoid new debt or excess spending. Loved ones may not fully understand your daily needs. Tarot message: Take care of your health. Lucky colour: Lotus-pink. Magic number: 33

VIRGO: “The Prince of Cups” brings you to your truths, hopes and desires that you mask with a calm surface. You are good at getting people to express their opinions. You’re just trying to understand what others around you are thinking. Tarot message: Be positive. Lucky colour: Peacock-blue. Magic number: 36

LIBRA: The Lovers facilitate new ideas. A surprise phone call could put you back in touch with a friend you have not seen for a long time. Youngsters should be capable of entertaining themselves. Not a good day for starting joint ventures.Tarot message: Do not be in a rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Silver-grey. Magic number: 54

SCORPIO: The Priestess infuses promise and commitment in personal relationships. Bring up sensitive issues, which will encourage some open and revealing discussions. Today a long-cherished dream will come true. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people.Lucky colour: Crimson.Magic number: 37

SAGITTARIUS: The prince of Wands promises power and energy. Lots of secrets and undercover scenarios can make for an interesting day. Activities with your mate or friends are likely to be cheerful. Tarot message: You can make things happen out of the most unlikely circumstances. Lucky colour: Brown. Magic number: 56

CAPRICORN: The Fool infuses you with courage. A neighbour has some gossip to divulge to you. If a family member is not co-operating; refrain from arguing. You find ways to express your creativity and emotions. Tarot message: Don’t try to end all deadlocks in one go.Lucky colour: Ebony. Magic number: 25

AQUARIUS: Today you will be able to enjoy interaction with people who share your views and thoughts. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you to enhance your reputation. Tarot message: Do not let trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 28

PISCES: The karmic Wheel of Fortune turns in your favour. Do not put up with a headache or neck-pain; visit a doctor or other health professional before it gets too late. Trust your institution. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength and do not trust others. Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 32

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is November 1...

Work autonomously as relationships with those around you won’t be great. Do things your way. You’ll feel a little on the edge as things aren’t going as you’d like them to; also you will not be able to keep your promises.

There is nothing wrong with wanting a simple life; if that means not having the latest electronic gadget, it is okay. Anyone who is shallow enough to judge you for not checking your text messages and emails every hour or so isn’t likely to be good company anyway! The world isn’t going to end because you are thinking of ways to make life less cluttered and reducing your dependency on technology. The position of Saturn and Jupiter enhances your ability to handle the details required to do a good job and others become more aware of your skills. Benefits may come through work itself. Any type of service that you may provide is likely to go down well now mainly because you are finding more joy in it.

Mood: Cheerful. Compatible signs: Libra, Cancer. Lucky colours: Red, Snow. Lucky days: Friday and Monday. Lucky numbers: 8, 11, 15, 22, 60.

You share your birthday with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (November 1, 1973, Mangalore). Aishwarya started her career as a model and became Miss World in 1994. She made her acting debut in Mani Ratnam’s Tamil biopic Iruvar in 1997. She has acted in more than 50 movies in Hindi, English, Tamil and Bengali. She will make a significant comeback in 2013.





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