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Let loose this weekend
So the festivities fall on a Tuesday; we are guessing that you'll shoot a sick leave a day before and connect the right dots on the calendar. Voila, that's a three-day weekend! No one can spend seventy-two hours bursting crackers and distributing sweets! If you are not the gifting and greeting types, there's a lot of help and a list of activities, coming all the way.
Eat, love, pray & shop It's Diwali weekend and every store worth its name is out to tempt you. From chocolates to furniture, from jewellery to home décor…go on bag some deals and splurge. If shopping's not your cup of tea, step out and brighten the festive weekend at any of the CITCO properties. Says AK Malhotra, GM, tourism, CITCO, "We'll be decorating all the CITCO hotels and also the Sukhna Lake; this is to underscore the festive spirit and the ambience." The city and the festivities For the students and college-goers, there are many options. The PEC Fest, starting November 9, promises to bring seventy-two hours of fun, thrill and entertainment, apart from their staple three attractions — the star night, the rock night and the road show. Says Himanshu Arora, convener, "We expect the spirit to be dampened due to Divali, but only a little. Our academic calendars are made way in advance and we couldn't do anything about it. We might just have to share the limelight with the festival but given the brand name of the festival, it won't affect us too much." Adds another student, "In fact, those sick of the typical festivities and the traffic jams and maddening rush, might enjoy all the more." Art lovers, can catch up on the exhibition by Belgium's globe trotting photographer Douglas Vanherpe, at the art gallery, Alliance Francaise, on till after the Divali weekend. At cinemas near you There's Jab Tak Hai Jaan, there's Son of Sardar (both to be released on Divali) and there's Skyfall. The former happens to be the much-awaited romantic saga of the legendary, and now late, Yash Chopra. His last movie with the typical powerful star cast, Swiss Alps, love triangle, and all the other ingredients of a typical Bollywood blockbuster. It promises to be riveting, gripping and dramatic. Then there's Ajay Devgn's and Aswini Dhir's Son of Sardar. Action, comedy and romance all rolled into one. The family entertainer for the family festival! It is the story of Jassi and his journey from Niagara Falls to Big Ben to Burj Khalifa and his stop-over at the famous Sydney Opera house. For the mainstream viewers, that's a tough call. For those that fall in
neither category, they can fall for the fifty-year-old franchise, the twenty-third official James Bond movie, all over again in Skyfall! manpriya@tribunemail.com
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Ode to childhood
The mother is cooking in the kitchen, while the father is washing the car. The little girl is pretty and pink, while the little boy is all blues and naughty. In a world of children's literature, she wanted to move onto where the families are a little unconventional and the world slightly more imaginative. Anita Roy, senior commissioning editor, Young Zubaan, tries to fill that void, with her upcoming novel, tentatively titled Dead School.
"There is a huge need for children's books, which are imaginative. I took up the publishing house on the condition that there will be lots of writing for children." She adds, "My upcoming book is about death, but it's not ghastly. It's a very imaginative adventure story. Children do think about death. As little kids when they lose their grand-parent or when they lose their pet, they do think about this phenomenon," she clarifies, in Chandigarh for a two-day creative writing workshop at Dikshant International School. "A lot of people get into writing because there is a certain glamour attached to the field. You sign copies, your mother loves you and all that…but creative writing is all about being able to express yourself." She adds, "That's how I would define creative writing. It's all about being able to express yourself." Born in Calcutta, raised in the UK and based in Delhi, it's been twenty-five years in the world of books, dealing with manuscripts, selecting some while rejecting many. "As an editor I feel, and now as an author, when people send their manuscripts, they take a huge personal risk because there is something of you that spills into writing." She adds, "The best part about today's literary scene is that there are lots and lots of different kinds of writers. There are also different kinds of readers. People can be scornful of Chetan Bhagat too; similarly there is not just Amitav Ghosh, but a plethora of writers." Speaking of which, Amitav Ghosh, that is, is one of her favourite authors. "When we talk of Indian writers in English, besides Amitav Ghosh, there's Arundhati Roy and when we talk of children's writers, Anushkha Ravishankar and Vandana Singh, are funny and imaginative." She adds, "Nevertheless, when we speak of Indian fiction for kids, there is Panchtantra and not much beyond." The readers for the likes of Enid Blyton, JK Rowling or George Orwell exist, but the authors in the same league don't! manpriya@tribunemail.com
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It’s a man’s world
The Indian fashion industry started on a very amusing note. It was dominated by male fashion designers who tailored clothes only for women. The equation changed gradually. Women moved out of their boutiques, shared the bigger platform. Men's wear — with some concerted efforts from Raghavendra Rathore and the likes and then a full-fledged fashion week dedicated to the segment — gained prominence as well. While Van Heusen Men's Fashion Week spells trend even for the festive season, retail stores too contribute in their own way. Here is all that will make men look dapper this season.
In the recent collection Mijwan by Manish Malhotra, the focus was as much on elaborate women-wear as on men. In fact, the fashion show put across the point that men have a lot to experiment with when it comes to festive wear. If Imran Khan walked the ramp in a black straight jacket with straight-fit trousers, Pratik Babber did the same in Pathani salwar, while the garment for the upper half of the body remained a constant; Imtiaz Ali looked charming in the contrast of black and beige, and Karan Johar easily carried-off a vermillion red bandhgala straight jacket. Arjun Saluja's creations — supporting androgynous fashion in his spring summer collection that he presented at the WLIFW — can be picked up for this time of the year as well. Silk lungis and flair-less skirts might be a welcome change from the usual churidaar kurtas.
There are churidaar with kurtas, Indo-Western suits and quite surprisingly Pathani suits, which zipped out of fashion a few years back. For men, there are many options. A visit to Meena Bazaar, Chandigarh, underlines the fact. Mutli-coloured kurtas with bright-coloured churidaars have replaced the pastel shades that have always defined the men's wardrobe. "Pathani suits have made a comeback, but in a modern version. They are in bright colours much against their staple dull shades. The detailing is done with velvet, which lends a formal touch," says Manish Jain, owner, Meena Bazaar." If ethnic-wear looks a like 'done-to-death fashion' and contemporary isn't good enough for festivals, then fusion might end all the confusion! Just like Amit Kashyap, who, to bring in the variety this time, has worked on the fusion line. "Ethnic-wear has always been popular with men, but this time I thought of Westernising it a bit." As a result, a short kurta has been paired up with a quilted half sleeves jacket and pencil trousers. "That will take care of the slight weather dip as well. As for accessories, Italian shoes (the ones that are pointed at the tip) and a bandej stole will do well." The colours used are bright and vibrant. Even if the colour of the short kurta and trousers isn't very bright, a fuchsia or electric blue jacket balances the look! The right combinations can make all the difference to what you wear. Raman Vij, a Ludhiana-based fashion designer for men, has attempted an experiment with a combination of outfits. "Team up a short bandhgala jacket with denims and salwars with long kurtas. Not that anything this season is out-of-the-box, selecting the right combination is always important." Since velvet is the fabric of the season, he has used it extensively for his short jackets. For those who feel the fabric is not very masculine, suede makes for the perfect replacement. "When it's about festive-wear, men shouldn't mind experimenting. Try a royal blue velvet jacket with a beige colour pencil trouser and you will be all set for the festivity." You still need a reason why you shouldn't go for the usual churidaar kurta this Divali? ashima@tribunemail.com
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Cracking time
Pull that couch out from the living area, tuck away those expensive bohemia glass pieces, create a seating space on the floor and some resting cushions…bring in some crunchy munchy snacks, cola or drinks, and a bunch of good friends…now the scene is for the Divali party at home is all set!
The festival has already ushered in shopping bags filled with designer dresses, shoes and gifts, so how about taking a break from the spree and partying? Lawns, terraces, farmhouses, living and dining areas at home work as the ideal venues for Divali parties. Every friend is special Now with Facebook working as a
perfect meeting ground for friends far and near, one doesn't need a special occasion to celebrate, barring of course one festival — Divali. Karan Wahi, director Wahi Ventures, is living outside his suitcase these days. You bet it is all these pre-Divali parties and get-togethers. "This is one time when friends come out from the virtual Facebook world and meet up in person. I look forward to these parties every year." Karan and his hostel friends zero-in a single place each day to party. 'It is either at any of our friends' place, which could be in Ludhiana, Delhi or Chandigarh or at someone's farmhouse. We eat, crack jokes, drink, dance; without any feeling of guilt. It is a time of total indulgence," shares Karan, who sends out emails to his friends almost ten days before Divali so that they have enough time to catch up. Let the music play For once, you can stop being a
connoisseur and let all munni's and jalebi bai's out of the CDs! Sameer Sandhu, a resident DJ with 10 Downing Street, along with his friends sing and dance to some of the most unheard songs.
"I don't like to play cards, so card parties are out of for me. We totally believe in pre-Divali parties, which means days of unrestricted fun." It is the time when you can give in to the sinful temptations like food. "Nobody counts calories. Nobody is keeping a check on the number of pizza slices going in," he laughs, all set to attend a terrace party at his friend's place in Zirakpur. Theme for a dream Unleash the Bollywood star in you
or just turn into a pirate! Manisha Khanna, a homemaker from Ludhiana, is busy putting together the theme
parties. "I threw a Hollywood star night yesterday at our place. It was so much fun. I will be organising a 'choose you star' party now, where my guests will dress up like the character they like. The best part about pre-Divali parties is that everyone is game for them," adds Manisha. jasmine@tribunemail.com
FESTIVE FUN So, you have finally decided to invite your friends over for Divali party? Here is what you would require to make it cracking. You will need to arrange for the decorations, fireworks, food and maybe some games. Do the décor Deck up your house in bright colours with rangolis, earthen lamps and diyas. Use fancy electric lights that create the festive mood for this occasion. These elements play an important part if you are organising the party at home. Make some interesting patterns with rangolis. Engage your kids in this as well. Flowers add an extra-special look to it all. Eat, drink & party Don't forget to add sweets in the Divali party menu. Gulab Jamun, Kesar Peda, Kesar Kaju Katli, Kesar Bhaat and Badam Ka Halwa add sweetness to party. Try something different this time by serving them with desserts. The main menu can have aloo dum, paneer gravies, paneer tikka, cocktail koftas and coconut okra. Isn't this getting tasty now? Don't forget your non vegetarian friends. Meat samosa, butter chicken, mutton korma are just the right additions. Don't forget to serve fresh juices. The kids should not be left out - spiced orange juice and milkshake combined with chocolate syrup and vanilla ice-cream (softened) can refresh your guests. Game on Gaming is a good idea to make a party rock. Get creative by organising a 'fireworks contest', which will perfectly match with the theme of your party. You can also organise a 'diya lighting contest' for your guests. Gift with love Give some exciting gifts to your guests. A set of beautifully decorated diyas and a box of floating candles, available in a variety of colours, can be one of the choices. Gift baskets full of chocolates, dry fruits and a pack of sweets are among the popular Divali party ideas that your guests will appreciate. Courtesy: Internet
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Wrap and roll
Kandla Nijhowne
Card games, Diwali shopping and visiting friends armed with gifts isn't exactly "rock 'n' roll" time but wraps and rolls can make a quick easy meal during such hectic days! You may not choose to cook from scratch if you have leftovers in the fridge. You can set the ball rolling with practically any pre-cooked food! The dough for these chappatis will stay softer if kneaded with some egg and milk or just milk. Green chutney, mayonnaise, thick yoghurt or peanut butter would moisten and bind the components together. Add fresh, healthy crunch with the use of raw salad, nuts or sprouts. I really shouldn't be telling you how to make rolls. This is more like a refresher course in the array of ingredients you can pop into a roll, resulting in a healthy and satisfying meal. Rolls cut small, sushi style are also perfect lunchbox ideas for kids! Veggie and paneer rolls
Method
(Nijhowne is a Chandigarh-based culinary expert)
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Fun, fearless female
After having dabbled in the romantic genre, Deepika Padukone is all set to venture in an action in Tips Industries’ Abbas-Mustan helmed thriller Race 2. To make her character more convincing, the actress has decided to shoot the hi-octane stunts that include a thrilling car chase sequence without a double."Abbasji and Mustanji have mastered this genre. I was a bit nervous during the first couple of days since this is the first time I have attempted an action thriller, but they gave me a lot of confidence and made me feel comfortable," said Deepika in a statement. Praising the actress, director Abbas said that she fulfilled the requirement of the character because she is both glamorous and fearless. "Despite her romantic heroine image, she had no qualms about playing a character that had grey shades. Just like her character, she is fearless in real life and looks very convincing on screen. She was even comfortable handling guns which I have not seen in many actors."
Shekhar for sequel
All these days, we have been hearing of a sequel of Mr India. But now, Boney Kapoor has decided to go ahead with the sequel that would be directed by Shekhar Kapur, who had directed the original way back in 1987.
If that is not all, the film's original lead couple Anil Kapoor and Sridevi will also be a part of the project though not in the lead roles. They will portray important characters.
Smashing line-up for
Rohit Shetty's sister Mehek's wedding
The Who's Who of Bollywood such as Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn will attend Rohit Shetty's sister Mehek's wedding. She weds designer Navin Shetty this weekend. Let us see how it will go. Shah Rukh Khan The superstar has become friends with the director because of Chennai Express. He is going to attend the wedding and is specially flying down for it. All eyes will be on him and Ajay Devgn because they are already at war regarding Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Son of Sardaar. Salman Khan Their fathers were thick chums and now Salman and Rohit are best buddies. He is going to attend in full force with his family. He and SRK will avoid each other like they did at Yash Chopra's funeral. Akshay Kumar Rohit Shetty and Akshay Kumar are buddies and the latter was personally invited by the director. They would make a typical blockbuster together whenever that happens. Akshay is most likely to attend. He will avoid running into Shah Rukh Khan and even Farah Khan. He is not talking to either of them. Farah and Akshay fell out after the latter abandoned Joker during promotions. Farah is thick with SRK again! Ajay Devgn Ajay and Rohit have worked in eight movies together and are really thick! Obviously, he will attend the wedding because Mehek is also like his own sister. He will avoid SRK and neither of them will make a scene to spoil the wedding in full media glare.
Katrina loves Kolkata
More to come
Ranbir Kapoor, who completed five years in Bollywood, rates his journey as "wonderful". “The journey has been good. I want to do more films and more exciting characters.
Kunal Kohli slams Ayushmann Khurana
Vicky Donor actor Ayushmann Khurrana has apparently ditched Kunal Kohli as the Hum Tum director failed to cast an A-list actress opposite the newcomer.
“I am not doing the film with Ayushmann. We discuss projects with various people, some happen, some don't. No big deal,” he said. The furious filmmaker slammed Ayushmann and cited budget as one of the reasons. “Ayushmann’s reasons were demeaning to other actresses. It’s sad a newcomer thinks likes that. Real stars/actors don't. Anyway, moving on. Also I was looking to produce a small film with him. Budget didn't work out. I'd rather concentrate on other projects,” he added. He also clarified that he wasn’t directing the proposed film. “Just to clarify I was NOT directing the proposed Ayushmann film. Sad he's projecting it like this to get publicity,” he added further.
No comments!
Deol DEAL
The satellite rights of the sequel to Yamla Pagla Deewana have already been sold for Rs 25 crore! The movie reunites the Deol family once again and this is the highest amount any Deol film has been paid for satellite rights.
Punjab connect
Gurdaas Maan was judging a reality music show as Son of Punjab and the team of Son of Sardaar was there to promote the movie. The legendary singer interacted at length with Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha and wished them all the very best for the Divali release
Friendly help
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On the spot
This weekend on Arjun, a mother, after giving her daughter an overdose of sleeping pills commits suicide. Though the daughter is alive but she is still in coma. ETF comes to investigate the case and accidentally finds out the hidden cash worth Rs 2.5 crores. Arjun is shocked and baffled Will he be able to unravel the mystery?
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Astro turf
ARIES: The card Eight of Swords bestows Saturine influence which will lead to problems at home. A neighbour would be cause of worry. A disagreement with your partner won’t be resolved for a few days so don’t try to push your point. TAURUS: You can encounter problems during the early hours. Your budget goes topsy-turvy. You may give some of your time to work in the hospitals or institutions and talk to less fortunate people there. Physical fitness is a concern, start a class in yoga. Tarot message: Seek advice. Lucky colour: Crimson CANCER: You are on the crest of a lucky wave. Those who are married will be able to see more of each other. Keep on the top of your appointments and everything should just fall in place.
LEO: Use your own judgment while taking important issues. Do not demonstrate your anger in front of anyone. Enjoy the evening with your friends. A restless attitude is likely to prevail.
Tarot message: Spend time on your fitness routine.
Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 29 VIRGO: Make your choices wisely today. Family politics will be overbearing. Talking about the issues will not make any differences to the situation. Listen to your own guidance and you will not go wrong. Tarot message: Take your partner out for dinner. LIBRA: Your card Ten of Wands shows deception. You will feel irritated at work. A new deal may bring monetary gains. Women: control your diet and focus on exercise. Good friends will be a source of entertainment and support. Tarot message: Adopt a diplomatic approach. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61 SCORPIO: Youngsters may feel a bit lethargic. New work might prove lucrative. You can safely delegate responsibility of work to others. A chance encounter with a stranger may leave your heart beating strong. Tarot message: Beware of making rash moves. SAGITTARIUS: You are unlikely to have any difficulty on concentrating. A Taurean plays a major role. Diplomacy and tact are the key words for the day. Your card The Lovers is shining its loving light. Tarot message: Keep your eyes and ears open for new and exciting opportunities. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 42 CAPRICORN: Students: do not neglect your work. Keep business activities open. Parent’s health needs attention. A foolish obligation can be dropped. Enjoy a peaceful day at home. Spend the morning with your family members. AQUARIUS: Get into the work early because as the day unfolds everything can become disjointed. An influential person may acknowledge your work. Take notice of your food and drink intake if you want to feel better. Tarot message: Stop thinking about yourself. Lucky colour: Silver
grey. PISCES: A business deal is likely to materialize leaving you with secure income. Start organising your finances. A new budget to suit your income and lifestyle will help you to make headway.
The year ahead
If your birthday is November 11...
This year you celebrate your Birthday on the first day of Panch Parvas of Divali transforming your rest of the year into auspicious time. Your personal magnetism is flashing. In 2013, you can overcome all your difficulties with cheerfulness and lightheartedness. You will enjoy being with others. Share this positive energy with everyone. There is a great harmony inside you and you must learn to appreciate and enjoy it. A rise or higher paying job will make your personal life much easier. You will be able to afford a relaxing holiday and spend more time with your near and dear ones. If you have a romantic partner, you will be able to support them. If you are single you can meet someone special at an art class. Creative pursuits put you on the path of love. You have been blessed with the gift of craftsmanship. You express rational and impartial judgments on any subject. You are nice, gentle, balanced, orderly and can adapt to all kinds of circumstances. You work well with people because you know how to use persuasion rather than force. There is a strong spiritual side to you. You will have to take on many responsibilities and this will not please everyone. Income will not be as much as you had hoped. If you try to burn thecandle at both ends, you will get burned. When others try to push you too far, you should push them right back. Your fresh investments have gone well and it has proved self-generating. Recovery of old dues starts flowing. Some pleasant events will boost your spirit and bank balance. Be careful how much you promise to friends, especially your near ones. Your health might require your attention. This could be a good year for romance. Make this a memorable time by dropping as much responsibility as you can. You will be tense. You will make a close friend angry. Try not to argue with anyone. Mood : Impulsive Compatible signs: Pisces, Cancer Lucky colours: Fire Brick, Cyan Lucky days: Monday and Friday. Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 42, 43, 90
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Boney Kapoor (November 11,1953, Meerut) is a film producer. He was married to Mona Shourie and later married Sridevi. He has produced many films that star both his brothers Anil and Sanjay Kapoor. Boney will go a long way as his Saturn is changing.