A fresh message
Jasmine Singh

Bhoop Yaduvanshi and Madhurima Tuli, new entrants in the world of glamour, talk about their upcoming movie Cigarette ki Tarah & its social relevance

Hope is a good thing, maybe one of the best things…' Tim Robbins in the movie Shawshank Redemption was all the time hoping against hope. And it did pay! Walking in almost an hour late, seated right in front of us, two debutant actors Bhoop Yaduvanshi and Madhurima Tuli of the movie Cigarette ki Tarah, would rather get to the business than 'just' hoping. So, they say yes to a movie with a social message and work hard enough to sit here and talk all about what starters experience, whatever little it is.

Bhoop is from a small place in Kanpur on his first date with limelight; Madhurima, she prefers to say that she is from India, has done television and two-odd films Down South.

The one thing common to them other than Cigratte Ki Tarah is the passion to act and survive without any godfather. "I come from a complete non-filmi background. I did theatre with Nadira Babbar and it was during one of the plays where the producer of Cigratte Ki Tarah approached me for the role. I want to do good cinema and this is the entry," says Bhoop. As for Madhurima, substance is the pull. "I would want to do roles like those in Barfi and Oh My God. They are different and interesting," she says with a polite smile.

We suggest the larger-than-life; glamour-soaked Karan Johar as their first choice! "My hair will turn grey waiting for it," she says. Talking about hair, she definitely sports a cool Rihaana cut. "I did try in Yash Raj Films and Dharma Productions, but you have to either be a star-kid or exceptionally lucky to get their films." Bhoop doesn't crib about not being well-connected in the industry. "I have opened my account in the industry with this film and I am sure hardwork will be noticed," he adds.

Cigarette Ki Tarah, which releases on December 12, is a film that has a social message other than being a love story. For the duo, this is a different kind of a film. "It shows what a cigarette can do to a person and how the lives of the characters can be related to a cigarette," they echo. Madhurima was a bit skeptical with the title, but things are rolling pretty well now. "I wasn't really bothered whether this film would be released or not. Now that we are going around for promotions and interviews, I am really excited," she says.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Talking point
Mona

In her twelve-year-long career graph that took her to eight different countries, Philipa Baker, head, Corporate Training, British Council, New Delhi, has never come across a team that complained of over-communication. It's always lack of communication that slows down the progress.

Philipa Baker wanted to travel the world and her current profile allows her to do that. "What I really enjoy is meeting so many interesting people, especially here in India," says Philipa, in Chandigarh on Wednesday for a talk 'Communicate for Success' as well as to be part of the event that gave British Council Membership Cards, sponsored by Central Bank of India, to meritorious students.

Communication is the key to success and very important in every field and for every human being, she stresses, especially in times when we are badgered by information through phones, emails, social media and more. "All you need is skill to get past the blurring lines that hamper effective communication," she says. With the British Council holding a number of training programmes in their other centres, they hope to roll out such programmes in Chandigarh as well.

Philipa's talk listed some helpful tips that make for effective communication. "The three most significant parameters are - think about your message, know your audience and choose your channel. Not thinking about one's message leads to information overload, crossing time limits and turns out to be a futile exercise. Think well before you speak," she says.

She adds, "Rather than emailing a colleague who sits in the same office as you for every little task, walk up and talk. It saves messing up the inbox and is polite," she signs off.

Sublime symphony
Mona

Flute exponent Rupak Kulkarni wants to pass on his knowledge, but only to those who want to make flute-playing their profession

Rupak Kulkarni was born in a home steeped in musical tradition. His father Late Pandit Malhar Rao Kulkarni taught him flute and tabla at home; young Rupak took to tabla to begin with. It was only when he was seven that he heard Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and everything changed then. "I was so mesmerised…flute has been my life since then. I breathe in and breathe out through the flute only!"

In Chandigarh recently for a SPICMACAY (The Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) concert, Rupak shares notes from his exceptional journey.

Fortunate student

I am very fortunate to have got two of the gifted gurus — my father Pandit Malhar Rao Kulkarni and the grandmaster of flute Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia. Trained under their expert guidance, playing flute has been a remarkable experience. Associated with Pandit Chaurasia right from childhood, he never made me realise his greatness; rather he treated me like his own son. To date he has never addressed me by my name, but always as beta. I am at such ease around him, and it is only symphony that fills our world. I do train now, but only those who want to pursue it as a profession. Flute is a vidya, it needs much work to learn and teach. I do believe in passing my knowledge forward, but only to the serious aspirants.

Cutting albums

Although there is more of digital music in vogue today than physical, yet the response to my 15 albums has been great. I go to different cities around the world and people tell me that they have my CDs; it's so heartening for any artiste. My latest album The Flautist is a tribute to Pandit Pannalal Ghosh, the pioneer who introduced flute to classical music. Before him, flute was only restricted to folk music.

Individual style

I have learnt under the great master Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, but have evolved my own style. I have played morning and evening ragas together in the album Drishti. Wonder flute or adbhut bansuri, is my modification from the regular one and it is much easier to play. The response to both has been very positive. I am also part of a six-member band Sonakshi. Our band has come out with two albums Unwind 1 & 2. However, it is concerts that keep us occupied.

Kudos to SPICMACAY

SPICMACAY is doing such a wonderful job; it's the artistes' moral responsibility to do their bit. I gave my first concert for SPICMACAY when I was in college; playing among my age group felt so great then. I have been associated with SPICMACAY ever since. It's heartening to take music to young impressionable minds!

mona@tribunemail.com

Warring queens

Though Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma have few things in common, they are fierce rivals, if industry insiders are to be believed. They are both gorgeous and talented in their own way and we bring you some more fun comparisons!

Similar notes

Both hail from Bangalore and were top models before entering Bollywood. Anushka gave Deepika a run for her money when she started modelling.

The pretty girls had grand debuts opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Om Shanti Om (Deepika) and Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (Anushka). They are tall and slim though Anushka has a better body and both of them are super dancers.

Neither has a Bollywood connection. They have both purchased expensive properties in Mumbai and are financially independent. They have no qualms flaunting their hot bods in bikinis.

Love life

Deepika Padukone has dated Yuvraj Singh, Nihar Pandya, Ranbir Kapoor and Siddharth Mallya. Now, it is common knowledge that she has captured Ranveer Singh's heart as they shoot for Raam Leela.

Anushka Sharma was dating a model before she entered Bollywood. Her biggest link-up has been with Ranveer Singh. Currently, she is apparently dating Arjun Kapoor. They say she also tried to put the moves on Ranbir Kapoor. Probably, Anushka does not like the fact that Ranveer who seemed to be so madly in love with her has moved on rather quickly to Deepika. Both Anushka and Ranveer are hyper people and they come across as warring, passionate lovers. Deepika has a calm personality that complements Ranveer's high energy.

Points of war

Anushka did not like the fact that she was almost finalised for Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and then Deepika got the movie because of her relationship history with Ranbir Kapoor and equation with Ayan Mukerji.

Anushka endorses a hair oil brand previously endorsed by Deepika Padukone and they both endorse rival scooter brands. And now, Ranveer Singh is a cause of war too!

Upcoming films

Anushka Sharma will be seen in Vishal Bhardwaj's Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola, Raju Hirani's PeeKay, and Anurag Kashyap's Bombay Velvet, as of now. This an impressive line-up with sought-after directors in which she can showcase her acting skills and good looks.

Deepika has a more commercial line-up with Chennai Express, Race 2, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Raam Leela.

They are also vying to play the female lead in Salman Khan starrer Kick which is a sure-shot blockbuster. DP also has Kochadaiyaan with Rajnikanth, a South film.

Hits and misses

Anushka debuted in 2008 and has not had a flop film. If not hits, her films have done average business and her performance has always been praised. There has been a variety in roles too.

She has done Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Badmaash Company, Band Baaja Baarat, Ladies Vs. Ricky Bahl, Patiala House and Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Deepika who debuted in 2007, came into her own as an actress only in recent times with Cocktail. Prior to Cocktail, she was seen as a pretty face and hot body who acted well in few movies such as Om Shanti Om, Break Ke Baad, Love Aaj Kal and Karthik Calling Karthik.

Her best performance has been Cocktail and that has helped her in baggin g roles. She has had flops like Karthik calling Karthik, Chandni Chowk To China, Aarakshan and others.

Both the actresses have had a great run in film industry so far, the line up is pretty impressive too. We wish them both all the very best!

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Relax with your partner in the evening; it’s just the antidote for the tensions of the day. Someone you are attracted to at work feels the same. Eat wisely; you are in danger of suffering from digestive problems. Tarot message: Take limited risks while speculating. Lucky colour: Crimson.

Magic number: 55

TAURUS: Today, conquer your fear and take a chance. You will be concerned about certain family issues and need to sort things out. There will be delays with certain business ventures or personal projects. Socialising will be costly.

Tarot message: Outline your goals ahead of time. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 28

GEMINI: 'The Queen of Pentacles' blesses you with the finest of qualities today. Things happen quickly and you need to take sharp decisions. Children will be a source of joy and their progress will make you proud. Tarot message: Don’t accept situations you dislike.

Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 34

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 careful with online transactions.

Tarot message: A bird in hand is worth two in the bush.

Lucky colour: Orange.

Magic number: 36

LEO: The wisdom of The Hermit inspires you to make new beginnings and move in a creative direction. Spending time with family will bring about a sense of peace and well-being. 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, past disappointments —all need your attention today. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confusing yourself. Lucky colour: Sky-blue.

Magic number: 54

LIBRA: A fine time to make a public speech or presentation. Business deals are on the boil, but still inconclusive. By the evening you can be in an irritable mood and prone to losing your temper with friends. Tarot message: Avoid friction with business partners.

Lucky colour: Brown.

Magic number: 62

SCORPIO: It looks like a very busy day ahead; any partying and indulgence of previous evening will be catching up with you. An important task to maintain a sound relationship seems difficult. Tarot message: Be firm and stand your ground.

Lucky colour: Pink.

Magic number: 59

SAGITTARIUS: The Prince of Wands rides in his flaming chariot of gold to induce dynamic changes at work. Don’t trust unreliable friends or relatives. Travelling will yield valuable information. Tarot message: Never to fall for rash promises.

Lucky colour: Purple.

Magic number: 52

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 with your mate or partner.

Tarot message: Consolidate your gains. Lucky colour: Grey.

Magic number: 58

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. Tarot message: Maintain your confidence.

Lucky colour: Rust.

Magic number: 45

PISCES: The Hanged Man helps you move into a new and better situation. Spirituality beckons; you are inclined to finding out more. You struggle to keep your temper in check today. This is an appropriate time to buy a vehicle.

Tarot message: Focus on your dream project. Lucky colour: White.

Magic number: 56

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 7...

Today should be a lovely birthday for most of you as the stars of romance and pleasure favour you. Those with children will enjoy spending time with them, so make sure you arrange your schedule to include the young ones. You can be especially creative and inventive at work, so let your imagination take you places.

Solutions are emerging before you. Don’t make hasty personal commitments. Delicate situations will reach a happy conclusion. You're in need of information and will track down quite a few sources to get it. In fact, you may spend several days satisfying your curiosity about many tangential subjects, so make sure you've got the time and energy to spare. This year the Stars advise you to trust the directives of a Leo or Capricorn person. If you still haven't found the right career path for you, an important encounter will open new doors. The Stars recommend you don't let this opportunity slip. Students are required to work hard to achieve their goals and objectives. They will need to put some extra efforts for exams. This will bring good results. Zip your lip or risk opening a nasty can of worms that leads to problems.

The year is good from a financial position, but you should be cautious with your expenditure. Friends may require favours. Expect to have some stomach disorders due to your poor digestion. Control your diet; otherwise you may have to suffer from a serious stomach ailment.

You may be a little edgy, but March and May are ideal months to set aside work or worries to have some fun. Allow yourself to be more direct in expressing your desires. Coming on strong may not be your usual style, yet it's just right for getting more attention now. Say goodbye to acting shy.

Mood: A bit 'tense' at times.

Compatible signs: Leo, Libra.

Lucky colours: Blue, Grey.

Lucky days: Friday and Sunday.

Shekhar SumanLucky numbers: 3, 8, 12, 16, 21

You share your birthday with Shekhar Suman (December 7, Patna), who started his career with the film Utsav opposite Rekha in 1985. On television, he was featured in the shows Dekh Bhai Dekh, Reporter, Wah Janab, Chote Babu, Andaz, Movers n Shakers et al. In 2009, he appeared as a participant on a reality TV series Raaz Pichhle Janam Ka, which was based on past life regression. He has also appeared as a judge in the reality TV show Lux Perfect Bride.

Chatter box
Mrunal takes the lead

Leading lad: Mrunal Jain
Leading lad: Mrunal Jain

After seven years, Mrunal Jain is finally getting his due or so it seems. With the lead role of Vishnu opposite Meethi in the hit show Uttaran, he has proved his talent. Mrunal, who is a passionate actor, talks about acting and films.

How is it working with Tina Dutta?

She is a good actor and fun on the sets. She has two roles and does them both diligently.

Do you want to switch over to films as well?

A good role is worth it be it on TV or films. Every actor wants to do films whether they admit it or not. But at the same time, TV has given me a lot and I would never leave it.

How do you look at your journey in Bollywood?

My journey in TV world has been great. I enjoy doing variety of roles which have given me satisfaction as an actor. In the last seven years, I have learnt a lot and grown as an actor too.

The role of Vishnu in Uttaran is developing well. What do you like about your character?

I do relate to Vishnu as he has a clear mind. Wearing the clothes of a pandit is a novel thing for me. I remember I was on a holiday when I got a call for the auditions but I couldn’t do it soon and thankfully the production house waited for me.

You are one of the fittest actors we have. What do you do to keep yourself in shape?

I work hard to maintain my body and enjoy working out. Looks are very important for actors and I am a fitness freak, so it works both ways for me.

KBC comes to rescue

In an upcoming episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati, rollover contestant Shama Parveen is on the hot seat, who hopes to win a considerable amount to buy a clothes store for her father. She also shared a funny incident with Mr. Bachchan about how she slapped an elderly man for misbehaving with her in the auto. Next contestant following her would be Archana Badhak from Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. She is a community organiser. She has been married for one and a half years and hasn’t told her in-laws about it. On being requested by Archana, Bachchan pleads to the in-laws to accept Archana and their son. Catch this episode on Friday December 7 on Sony Entertainment Television.

I've never seen any daily soaps: Surbhi

Before landing the lead role in Qubool Hai, actress Surbhi Jyoti had never watched any daily soap. She says it was sheer luck that she got caught in the TV show mania.

"I have never seen daily soaps as I was always more attracted to reality shows, its thrills and adventures. It is sheer luck that I got a chance to be part of this show," Surbhi said. "This show is completely different from others. It has a Muslim backdrop, but the characters are quite modern in their outlook. The treatment of the story is completely different from others, which attracted me the most to the show. Moreover, we have an all-young cast in the show, so shooting for it is double the fun," she added.

The show, aired on Zee TV, is a family drama with hints of a love story. Surbhi, 23, hails from Jalandhar, Punjab and is an MA in English. She has been actively involved in theatre too, and was earlier part of the Punjabi serial Kach Diya Wanga, and has also done a few Punjabi films.

In Qubool Hai, which is her debut Hindi show, Surbhi is cast opposite TV heartthrob Karan Singh Grover. -IANS

Not interested, again!

Post Sasural Genda Phool, Ragini Khanna got many offers but she turned them down. Recently too she was approached for the lead role of new show Biwi Hai Sab Jaanti Hai. But she refused it. The story is about a successful journalist who later becomes a housewife. Now the makers have contacted Suhasi Dhami for the role.

New role: Suhasi Dhami
New role: Suhasi Dhami


Exit point: Ankita Lokhande Old isn’t always gold

Ankita Lokhande will soon quit playing Archana in Balaji’s hit Zee TV show Pavitra Rishta. She has quit the show and will shoot till February 15 only. Sources claim it is confirmed as she isn’t keen on playing the role of a grandmother.

Exit point: Ankita Lokhande

What’s in store?

A still from Kya Huaa Tera vaada With Sony’s Kya Huaa Tera Vaada going for a leap from next Monday, Pradip (Pawan Shankar) will be shown dead while role of Darshan Pandya will end as well. Mona will be an elderly woman managing life independently with her three kids. Sargun Mehta and Sukirti Kandpal have been approached to play Mona’s kids.

Kolkata calling

Pavitra Rishta’s lead actor, Asha Negi is thrilled to shoot in Kolkata. She says, “Since I am playing a pregnant woman in the portions of Pavitra Rishta, it was like a Vidya Balan’s Kahaani moment for me. I am in love with Kolkata. I often had breakfast at Flurries and I would invariably make my driver stop for egg rolls, kathi rolls and phuchkas by the roadside. My discovery of the trip, however, was the baked rasgullas at Balaram’s.”

NEW RELEASES
Film Khiladi 786

Producers: Himesh Reshammiya, Sunil Lulla, Twinkle Khanna

Director: Ashish R. Mohan

Star Cast: Akshay Kumar, Himesh Reshammiya, Asin, Mithun Chakraborty, Paresh Rawal

Khiladi 786 is directed by Ashish R. Mohan, who has assisted director Rohit Shetty in all the Golmaal series. This action-comedy has mind blowing action sequences, including a free fall, without any cables and the man behind these action scenes is Rohit Shetty.

Asin of Bol Bachchan fame has shed her ghagra choli image as she essays the role of a typical Maharashtrian girl. She teams up with Khiladi Kumar (Akshay Kumar) yet again. Akshay plays a Punjabi and Himesh Reshammiya plays a Gujarati in the film. The story of Khiladi 786 revolves around two families with the backdrop of wedding.

It is a complete masala entertainer with foot tapping songs beautifully composed by Himesh Reshammiya, Oh Bawariya…. And Hookah bar…. All the songs have been choreographed by Ganesh Acharya. Watch German model Claudia Cisela (Big Boss 3 fame) in an item song Sigdi…. In Khiladi 786.

Hotel Transylvania

Producer: Michelle Murdocca

Director: Genndy Tarta Kovsky

This animated film is based on a monster party Hotel Transylvania a five star hotel for monsters that is run by a Dracula. It is directed by Genndy Tartakovsky, the creator of Samurai Jack, Dexter’s Laboratory and Syn-Bionic Titan. Selena Gomez has given voice over for Dracula’s teenager daughter. Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Fran Drescher, Selena Gomez, Molly Shannon has given voice over for the rest of the star cast.

— Dharam Pal

PC on top

Bollywood superstar Priyanka Chopra has won the 'Worlds Sexiest Asian Woman' crown, according to an on-line survey conducted by a weekly magazine.

Priyanka, 30, defeated reigning champion Kareena Kapoor and three-times winner Katrina Kaif to claim the crown of sexiest Asian woman on the planet this year.

Priyanka Chopra secured top spot with Kareena Kapoor coming second and Katrina Kaif third.

A permanent fixture in the top three in recent years, the beauty queen turned A-list Bollywood star beat off very tough competition from some of the most stunning women from around the world.

"It has rounded off a dream year for Priyanka, which included a starring role in super-hit film Agneepath, delivering a superb performance in India's official entry to the Oscars, Barfi and launching an international pop career alongside chart-topping singer Will.i.am," the release said.

Clearly delighted with the win, Priyanka said: "I'm hugely flattered. Who wouldn't want to have a title like this bestowed on them! A big shout out to everyone who voted for me." The magazine editor Asjad Nazir, who annually puts together the popular list and is chairman of the judging panel believes a dream year will give Priyanka the perfect platform to possibly becoming a Hollywood star in 2013.

"The sheer diversity of the projects that Priyanka did in 2012 combined with her close connection to fans online worked in her favour and added to her already impressive fan base. That is why she was able to beat off pop stars, TV personalities, models and fellow film stars," said Asjad. — PTI

Young actresses for Khiladi Kumar

Priyanka Chopra and Akshay Kumar made a hit pair in movies like Aitraaz and Waqt. Then Akshay's wife Twinkle objected to their alleged affair and they never shared screen space again. Now, Akshay Kumar and Parineeti Chopra (Priyanka's hot and happening cousin) will star in the remake of Thuppakki directed by AR Murugadoss and produced by Vipul Shah. The original film starred Vijay and Kajal Aggarwal.

Akshay is allowed to work with Parineeti. Lately, he has been working with younger and newer actresses like Sonakshi Sinha in Rowdy Rathore, Asin in Khiladi 786, Anushka Sharma in Patiala House. So Parineeti is yet another newcomer on his list and the girl is a vivacious actress who is open to all kinds of roles and movies at the moment. This is the second movie she has signed in recent times. Post the success of Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl (her role and acting was noticed) and Ishaqzaade, she had not signed any movies but signed a few endorsement deals. Now, she is confirmed to do Maneesh Sharma's film and this film opposite Akshay Kumar.

Other names considered for this film were Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty but Akshay has a problem with Diana's agency so she could not be part of this movie. The agency issue is the reason why Nargis Fakhri was replaced by Asin in Khiladi 786.

True family saga

For sometime we have been hearing that Abhinav Kashyap's next Besharam would have Ranbir Kapoor along with his parents.

Having confirmed that both Rishi and Neetu Kapoor have been signed in by the filmmaker, it was surprising to hear that they won't be seen as his parents. Rather, they will portray Haryanvi cops. Neetu will be the loud, aggressive one while Rishi will be her soft-spoken counterpart.

According to a source close to the film, Abhinav thought of casting Neetu only later after he was confident that the role would be a meaty one.

Recently, after Abhinav narrated the script to her and she was game to be part of the film. Ranbir is very excited since this will be the first time he will share screen space with his mother with whom he is extremely close.

Apparently, Abhinav had always dreamt of making a film with Ranbir and Rishi Kapoor and getting Neetu on board proved to be the icing on the cake.





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