Music in the soul
Each moment is precious and musician Salil Bhatt believes in living it to the fullest. He comes up with a new music album Strings of Freedom
Mona

Salil Bhatt, heir to a 500-year-old musical legacy, is a free soul. Music is a universal language and Salil against all boundaries as well as barriers. His latest is an offering to his father and Guru, Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt — a brand new raga Vishwa Kauns.

In Chandigarh, for Pracheen Kala Kendra’s monthly Baithak programme, he unveiled the music album Strings of Freedom, which is the latest creative offering by Salil Bhatt and Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt.

Award Gallery
This young classical ambassador of music has been honoured from time to time.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Award
Abhinav Kala Samman
Mahakal Sangeet Ratan
International Achievers Awards
Title of “Global Indian”
Title of “Prince of Raga”
Rag Bhavishya Samman
Grass Roots Grammy Nomination
Juno Award Nomination
Pre Grammy Award Nomination

Vishwa Kauns is special to Salil for it celebrates the spirit of freedom, which is so inherent to this musician. From global fusions, jugalbandis to solo concerts, Salil finds music liberating and with Raga Vishwa Kauns he has tried to fuse Hindustani and Carnatic traditions together. “Raga Vishwa Kauns is an exquisite synthesis of raga Jog, raga Jog Kauns and swar Rishabh through a unique technique, which enhances the beauty of this new raga,” he says.

It took him months of patience to fine tune the new raga and further deliberations with his Guru as well as other music maestros to complete the album. Salil has been playing it at different platforms across the world. “The response is incredibly overwhelming,” says Salil, who is also credited with the creation of the Satvik Veena.

He leads a very hectic life - 30 days, 30 different concerts is no mean task — but for Salil staying idle for even a few hours is a more difficult proposition. A true-blue Capricorn, he is all for working all the while he is awake! “I guess it was my concert to Iceland that robbed me off my sleep. I landed there during peak summer in May 2005. The sun was up there all the time and it has been an influence ever since. I am good with four hours of sound sleep now. Why waste this one life when there is so much to accomplish!” Vishwa Kauns has that very same unbridled energy and a spirit of celebration.

Strings of Freedom brings the sounds of Mohan Veena, Satvik Veena, Vishwa veena, tabla and taanpura together. “I feel it will gain favour with the new generation while at the same time exposing them to our rich cultural heritage.”

Thirty years in the profession, Salil has carved his niche. There have been nominations for Canadian Juno (for the album Slide to Freedom 2 - Make a Better World) and a Pre-Grammy Award Nomination...but Salil is not content at that. “Nomination is one thing, winning another.” Along with his solo concerts, jugalbandis with artistes from different traditions, which takes music all around the world, keeps Salil busy. In Burma last week and now here, he is constantly on the move.

The concert will be held at the Pracheen Kala Kendra-35, Chandigarh, on Tuesday from 6:30 pm onwards. Accompanying Salil Bhatt would be Canada-based Cassius Khan, a tabla player and ghazal singer.

mona@tribunemail.com

Write approach!
Script-writer Sanjay Chauhan, of I am Kalam and Paan Singh Tomar fame, foresees a bright future for Indian cinema in the coming times
Mona

A still from the movie Paan Singh Tomar
SCREEN SHOT: A still from the movie Paan Singh Tomar

Quiz him on what kind of films he likes to see and scriptwriter Sanjay Chauhan, who was widely appreciated for I Am Kalam that bagged a Filmfare Award, gives no intellectual answers. “Imandari se kahun toh I like films that I have grown up watching — that of Rakesh Roshan. I love Rohit Shetty’s movies as much as Vishal Bhardwaj’s or Indra Kumar’s.”

It is strange that the writer who wrote Paan Singh Tomar along with Tigmanshu Dhulia and has been behind stories like Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara and Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, revers Dara Singh as a hero and prefers Jackie Chang’s stunts over Wong Karwai’s works!

In Chandigarh over the weekend as a chief guest for Dikshant International School’s Founder Day, Sanjay shares his take on kids, stories, cinema and more.

Be a kid, always

All his childhood, Sanjay hated chief guests for they would give long, moralistic speeches on functions. However, he did accept the opportunity to be one, as in children he finds the best of teachers. “To grow, it’s important to keep that child-like enthusiasm alive,” he says. The interaction with school kids and their parents kept Sanjay as engaged as the others. Its life’s real stories that this writer aspires to bring alive on screen and for that he believes in observing and interacting with real people in real situations.

Awards & more

Winning a Filmfare Award has been a huge boost for Sanjay. With films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Delhi Belly and The Dirty Picture, Sanjay is happy to have made the cut. “What made me proud was to get the honour right in front of Javed Akhtar, whose films I have grown up seeing.” Post the success of Paan Singh Tomar, Sanjay has been inundated with offers. “To choose wisely and refuse without hurting has been a task, but I am glad I am working on varied subjects that captivate me.

Next up

With the success of Paan Singh Tomar, lots of delayed projects have been revived. Currently, Sanjay is working on a Marathi movie Gulabi, which is the story of a bar dancer in love with a police officer and Love Is Not Mathematics with Madhab Panda. He is writing the dialogues for a film by Sudhir Misra while also researching for Anurag Kashyap’s movie. There is yet another, a story of two warring brothers for Indra Kumar. “Work keeps me moving and elated.”

Cinema scope

Sanjay foresees a brilliant time for cinema in the next ten years. With movies like Kahaani and Gangs of Wasseypur becoming huge commercial successes, writers now have a whole new arena to toy with. “Commercial cinema would always be a hit. What’s wonderful is that now new stories are being told — that of roots, the way Anurag and Sudhir do. Today, most of the viewers who are under-30 have an access to world cinema; we need to cater to their tastes as well.”

Writer first

Moving from journalism to TV writing to films now, Sanjay has established himself as a writer. What’s more, he now also has people backing him to start a new innings as a director. In two minds about direction, he is sure that writing would always be his first love.

About direction, he says, “Kuch kahaniyan to mujhe kahni hain… one is a kid story, another of old people called Nani ki Shadi; yet another on old versus younger generation debate. The older generation finds the latter neither focussed nor sincere, but I find them pretty focused and true towards society as well as the nation; only they don’t say it in so many words.”

Art as a way of life
Poonam Bindra

“The vagaries of the global economy have brought about interesting movements in the market for the Indian Art, but the emerging trends paint a clear picture,” quotes the latest Forbes magazine. The influence seems to be trickling down as artists of the new genre are exploring various mediums that are in sync with international standards.

Picky Bindra, a Ludhiana-based artist, is influenced by tattoo and pop-art. Having been creative from her childhood, Picky got into serious work only seven years ago. Back from participating in the Indian Art Festival at Mumbai, Picky seems to have arrived on the national art scene.

Luckily, her work was recognised at the right places and events. The first one being a Buddhist Exhibition in April at the Azad Bhavan, ICCR, New Delhi. “Artists into Buddhist practices view art as a way of life, a daily practice and convey their philosophy through the medium of art,” says Picky, whose works are a great deal influenced by Nicherien Daishonin. And she explored the potential within her through Buddhist practices. Her medium is acrylic and paints on canvas, wood and metal. Using fine lines and bright colours as a catalyst, she creates chemistry between the viewer and the viewed.

She adds, “My paintings are about hope, happiness and fulfillment. The riot of colours on the canvas and my creativity as a medium, the images on the canvas try to reinforce the four virtues of Buddha — eternity, true self, happiness and purity, making each work a visual sensation.”

The next launching pad was at the combined exhibit by the Indian Harmony Foundation and Progressive Art Gallery, where she got a special pat on the back by well-known curator RN Singh for her entry Acrylic on Canvas, which also found a place of pride in the Catalogue Journal. He has advised her to direct her work to a ‘greener planet’, starting from Ludhiana.

Having been a jury member at Art Beat, which was sponsored by IREO waterfront, Picky was quite impressed by the comprehensive entries but feels that there is a dire need to foster and develop aesthetic sense in today’s youth.

After mastering the techniques of acrylics on canvas, she is now evolving and stepping into the world of graffiti and installation art.

Par Excellence
The backswing – do not sway
Jesse Grewal

The backswing is created by two motions – the turning of the body around the axis of the spine and the lifting or upward action of the arms, wrists and club. Some players feel that the first move is a turning action of the shoulders while others feel that they move the club with their arms and the body responds to this action. While this is the ‘feeling’ of the players, video analysis has shown that the bigger muscles of the shoulders initiate the backswing and motion of the arms and wrists are secondary.

The shoulders begin to turn and the hips should respond to this turn. The hips should turn within their original position and not make a lateral move. This lateral move is called a sway. As the hips move laterally the right hip will rise (for right handed golfers) and the right leg will begin to straighten too. This can lead to many faults. The shoulders could now turn too steeply and a line drawn through the top of the spine and the middle of the hips which is the belt buckle will be tilting towards the target instead of away from the target. This is called reverse spine angle. Reverse spine angle is different from the reverse pivot. In a reverse pivot the weight moves to the lead leg. In the reverse spine angle the weight moves to the back leg as the hips sway but the spine tilts towards the target. This move coupled with the sliding of the hips towards the target is the number 1 cause of back pain.

This fault is caused by different things. It could be incorrect knowledge of the swing and the effort of making the weight shift towards the back foot or a lack of mobility or turning capacity of the hips and shoulders. To train yourself place a shaft, bag stand or chair just behind your right heel (picture 1). As you take your backswing ensure that your hips does not sway or come closer to the object (picture2).

Another way is to see yourself in a mirror and watch your belt as you make a backswing. Make sure the belt remains level (picture 4) and the right side does not rise above the level of the left side (picture 5).

This exercise would help in creating the correct coil on the backswing and to be in a position to create speed in the downswing.

(Grewal has coached several national champions and professionals apart from being coach of the Indian golf team for the Eisenhower Cup (World Cup) in 2008. He is currently the Director of National Golf Academy of India and CGA Hero Honda Golf Academy. If you have any queries get in touch with him at parexcellence@tribunemail.com)

the ‘in’ side
Placement theory
Sukhmani

A collection can be anything from shells to matchboxes, dolls or genuine antiques, and the flair with which you display your treasures is what will make them even more interesting for others to see. Do not be afraid to use all the vertical space available.

Tabletops can only hold so much without looking cluttered. If you tend to collect smaller antiques, then custom shelving is a great way to showcase your pieces or frame them.

Use a curio cabinet to display small antiques but make sure you don’t stuff them all. Keep the size and colour in mind while grouping items. To add visual interest, vary the heights in the grouping. Mix large and small pieces, using small pedestals or stands to elevate objects.

Remember that odd numbers look more pleasing to the eye than even numbers. So place your items in odd numbers.

Create depth by alternating pieces from back to front instead of placing them in a straight line. You might try placing three objects in a triangular shape with the tallest pieces in back. Depending on the number of items in your collection, you can create multiple triangles, overlapping them as necessary.

Don’t display everything you have at one time. Keep rotating your antiques every few months.

Don’t be afraid to put old with new. You can actually group a modern sofa with two period chairs. This provides a beautiful contrast.

Group similar objects together. If you have a few antiques from a particular period, try putting them all together in one place. Avoid keeping unrelated items together.

Lighting is very important to highlight your collection. Use track lights, spot lights, cabinet lights or even antique lamps and chandeliers to draw attention to your antiques. Shadows cast from the object can add to or subtract from its beauty, so evaluate your lighting well. You may even consider using a special coloured wall to compliment and highlight the collection.

Don't let the backdrop interfere with your display. Busy wallpaper, for example, would distract your attention from the object you're trying to highlight. Most often, a soft, solid color serves best as a background, though a bold color is in order if the object is pale.

Ephemera or paper collectables like stamps, old maps, labels, tickets etc. can be framed. Remember to use acid-free materials to preserve them and hang them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Maintain the theme of the room. Putting Chinese pottery in a French country style room will look completely out of place.

(Sukhmani is an interior designer)

A slice of New York
Jasmine Singh

Pizza gets an Indian twist at newly opened Pizza joint.
delight full: Pizza gets an Indian twist at newly opened Pizza joint.

Tiger Woods was once asked how much he enjoys cooking, to which he replied with a controlled smile- “I don’t cook. Not as long as they still deliver pizza.” Ah! How many of us share the same feeling! And if you have a variety on the menu, even better. Angad Singh, 25, an entrepreneur, after completing his hotel management degree from Australia comes back to open a franchise joint New York Pizza & Fried Chicken (NYPFC) in sector-36, Chandigarh, that offers an interesting assortment of pizzas.

This young man has many interesting ideas up his sleeves. Before he rolls them out, Angad shows us the separate cooking compartments for vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. “At NYPFC, I wanted to give a New York kind of feel. Then of course, it is fresh and healthy food that we will be serving here,” he adds.

The place specialises in making pizzas and garlic bread with a fresh base twice a day. Over 50 varieties of pizzas are on the menu along with burgers, fried chicken, pasta and wrap. Angad can’t help smiling when we ask him whether the place would cater to people who enjoy their pizzas with a touch of Indian cooking. “Most probably, pretty soon, we would come up the Indian version of pizza with the touch of garlic and ginger.”

While this is still on the planning stage, check out the combos at NYPFC, named after New York landmarks- Times Square, Wall Street, Manhattan, and all are competitively priced. Not to forget the sidekicks like chicken popcorn and hot wings. Angad Jee Foods, the organization under which NYPFC has come to Chandigarh, has made sure they don’t lose out on the Indian touch. As Angad, who talks about his ‘rich’ experience of working in McDonalds adds, “I wanted to bring authentic pizzas to the city, of course keeping in mind the tastes of people here.”

Doc Talk
Creamy layer
Dr Vikas Sharma

During the winter season the one thing that our skin requires the most is a perfect moisturiser. Moisturisers prevent and treat dry skin, but that’s not all they do. Moisturisers protect sensitive skin, improve skin tone and texture, and mask imperfections.

Pick-up the best: On the most basic level, moisturisers hold water in the outermost layer of skin. They also act as a temporary barrier against allergens and harmful environmental agents. Many moisturisers contain some combination of humectants and emollients.

The moisturiser that’s best for you depends on many factors, including the skin type, the age and whether you have specific conditions, such as acne.

Normal skin: Normal skin is neither too dry nor too oily. To maintain this natural moisture balance, one should use a water-based moisturiser that has a light, non-greasy feel. These moisturisers often contain lightweight oils, such as cetyl alcohol, or silicone-derived ingredients, such as cyclomethicone.

Dry skin: To restore moisture to dry skin, need is of a heavier, oil-based moisturiser that contains ingredients such as anti-oxidants, grape seed oil or dimethicone, which helps keep skin hydrated 24 hours. For very dry, cracked skin, petrolatum-based products are preferable. They have more staying power than creams and are more effective at preventing water from evaporating from our skin.

Oily skin: Oily skin is prone to acne and breakouts. Though oily, such skin still needs moisture, especially after using skin care products that remove oils and dry out the skin. A light moisturiser also protects the skin after washing. Choose a water-based product that’s labelled “non-comedogenic,” which means it won’t clog pores.

Sensitive skin: Sensitive skin is susceptible to skin irritations, redness, itching or rashes. Look for a moisturiser that contains soothing ingredients such as chamomile or aloe and doesn’t contain potential allergens, such as fragrances or dyes. Also, avoid products containing acids such as lactic or glycolic acids, which can irritate sensitive skin.

Mature skin: As you age, the skin tends to become drier because the oil-producing glands become less active. To keep the skin soft and well hydrated, choose an oil-based moisturiser that contains petrolatum as the base, along with antioxidants or alpha hydroxy acids to combat wrinkles. These ingredients help hold in moisture and prevent flaky and scaly skin. Such moisturizers keep the skin hydrated and supple. They lock in the skin’s natural moisture, as well as help attract moisture to the surface of the skin to prevent it from drying out. They also improve the skin barrier function. Most moisturisers include fragrance to make the product smell more appealing. Those with sensitive skin should use moisturizers with no fragrance and minimal ingredients. The other thing to consider when choosing a good moisturiser is the texture and feel of the moisturiser itself. One should select and pick one that hydrates but won’t feel heavy and greasy.

(Dr Sharma is Chandigarh-based consultant dermatologist & dermato-laser surgeon)

Poonam Pandey Beauty at its best

The hunt for the hottest, most sensational girl in the country culminated its Chandigarh chapter of KS Miss Maxim 2012 at The Blue Blazer Continental Bar recently.

Poonam Pandey, a Chandigarh-based model, won the Chandigarh audition round. She will now be heading to Mumbai for the grand finale to compete with 18 other girls from across the country for the title. Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurana, author Tahira Kashyap, actor Gulzar Chahal and Manu Makker, brand manager, Maxim were the eminent members of the judging panel. — TNS


Poonam Pandey

coming soon
Play ground

For a generation living a virtual life, real relationships are getting scarce. In an effort to turn that around, Parveen Jaggi has prepared play Mirza Sahiban. Based on the legendary Punjabi lovers, Parveen has rewritten this original play by Balwant Gargi and also directed it.

The annual play production Mirza Sahiban is the annual show by the students of Swami Ram Tirtha Smart School. With close to 150 students as part of this productionhave been part of this production, the effort has been to keep the music and dance totally traditional.

The play will be staged on Tuesday at 5:30 at Tagore Theatre.

The multicoloured panorama will be woven into a majestic theme with variety of peppy displays like harvesting songs, jhummar, jindua etc. by young artists. —TNS

STAR TRACK
I am not a saint: Lindsay

Troubled actress Lindsay Lohan, who plays Elizabeth Taylor in new movie Liz and Dick, says she and the Hollywood icon seem unable to avoid a life of excess.

Both the actresses were former child stars who eventually checked into the Betty Ford Center for drug and alcohol abuse.

Lindsay Lohan"There are things you experience when you reach a certain level of fame, and people are willing to do whatever you ask them to do. "I think excess comes from that; a lot of people are afraid to say no to you. If you don't have the right people around you, you're never going to learn when to stop.

"I was there at one point. I didn't know what else to do and I didn't take the time to listen enough. I've learnt a lot, and I'm lucky, but that's not to say I'm a saint now, either," Lohan said. — PTI

Confession box: Lindsay Lohan

Hollywood is sexist and misogynist: Helen

Veteran actress Helen Mirren says the American film industry is sexist and misogynist.

Mirren, 67, who got recognition after her 2007 role in The Queen, said she has never been interested in starring in major blockbuster movies because of the attitudes of studio bosses. Asked about her sudden surge in popularity, the British actress said, "Well, that's how it looks from the outside. My success grew slowly but constantly. I've been working every year since I started acting and I got many awards before I won the Oscar for The Queen.

Helen Mirren"Maybe it's because I've never been interested in big Hollywood flicks and I've only been in a few recently. I've always sensed a misogynist and sexist attitude, even in the 60's and 70's. Can I say that (1970 movie) Five Easy Pieces sucks? You need to be a feminist. It's about equality and rights," she said. This attitude of Hollywood had often led her to think about quitting the film industry.

"I can't say no to an interesting role. I always tell my husband, 'That's it, I quit, I've done all I wanted' and he's just like, 'Yeah, yeah. Sure.'" — PTI
Queen bee: Helen Mirren

Image makeover

After doing bold and glamorous roles in films like Murder 2 and Housefull 2, Jacqueline Fernandez now wants to break out of that image, though she admits it is a risky step. The actress feels people are just waiting to stereotype an actor and she doesn't want to do same roles again.

"It does take a conscious effort (to change your image), because people are just waiting to stereotype you. If you have done a movie which is successful, and your performance is successful, then people want to encash on that. You have to put your foot down," Jacqueline said.

But after having achieved success, she does feel it is risky to change the image.

"It is risky because people don't like being said 'no'. But you just have to do what is good for you. I love actors who can shock you. Like Ranbir Kapoor, every single character he does is different. Even Priyanka Chopra challenges herself and I like that," said the actress, who made her Bollywood debut with Sujoy Ghosh's Aladin.

Jacqueline FernandezJacqueline will now be seen in Abbas-Mustan's Race 2 and says the film is very glamorous. "Race 2 is not gory. It is more glamorous. It has got a rich backdrop to it. It is not dark, it is all about suspense," she said. The film, which releases January 25 next year, also features Deepika Padukone and Ameesha Patel. Jacqueline says they share a good rapport with each other.

"I had the experience of working with other actresses in Housefull 2 and we got along really well. We really bonded and it made the experience really good. Even in Race 2, we (Deepika and Ameesha) got along. You see them as your team. I don't think you should even think about rivalry," she said. Asked if she ever felt threatened by having other actresses in the same film, the 27-year-old said: "I am comfortable with it. I think what works for me is that, I look at it as different characters. You make the character your own and be confident with that. I don't think it threatens you in any way, if you follow your own track and do well," she said. — IANS

Break free: Jacqueline Fernandez

Strip tease

Nicole Kidman Hollywood superstar Nicole Kidman has stripped down to her underwear to woo co-star Zac Efron in a new trailer for her upcoming film The Paperboy.

Kidman, 45, recreated Sharon Stone's Basic Instinct moment by opening her legs to flash at a death row inmate as she pants and writhes in her chair. In the film, the ex-wife of Tom Cruise plays oversexed housewife Charlotte Bless, who exchanges love letters with a convict. The Oscar-winning actress stars alongside Efron, Matthew McConaughey and John Cusack.

Based on the novel by Lee Dexter, the film follows a newspaper reporter (Efron), who has returned to his home town to investigate Van Wetter's (Cusack) case in a bid to prove he is innocent but soon becomes involved with Kidman's character, who is writing to the convict. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May and has attracted attention for its adult content and themes. — PTI

Bold move: Nicole Kidman

Miley goes wild

As a guest performer at dub step star Borgore’s Christmas Creampies concert in Hollywood, Miley Cyrus sang and strutted alongside a topless stripper. Sporting her Miley Cyrus now-familiar blonde, punk pixie ‘do the singer wore a tiny top with strategically placed cutout revealing her cleavage, a gold body chain, tight leather pants and knee-high leopard-print boots.

Cyrus appeared to nearly make out, or at least get very up-close-and-personal with a male performer onstage. –ANI

sing along: Miley Cyrus

Dubai calling
The 9th edition of DIFF begins with gala screening of Life of Pi

Oscar-winning filmmaker Ang Lee's Life Of Pi, an adventure fantasy about an Indian boy adrift in the ocean with a Bengal tiger, opened the 9th edition of Dubai International Film Festival with its lead cast Suraj Sharma, Adil Hussain and Shravanthi Sainath walking the red carpet.

Actress Freida Pinto arrives for the opening ceremony of the 9th Dubai International Film Festival, as well as the screening of Life of Pi at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai.Australian actress Kate Blanchett and India-born star Freida Pinto added Hollywood glamour to the opening gala night, which was attended by some leading names from Arab cinema.

Pinto glittered in a golden gown by Ralph Lauren while Blanchett was dressed in a light blue gown. Pinto is part of the international judging panel at DIFF for the short film competitions in the Muhr Arab, Muhr AsiaAfrica and Muhr Emirati categories while Blanchett is heading the jury for the IWC Schaffhausen Filmmaker Award. Shot in 3D, Life of Pi is based on Yann Martel's Booker-prize winning novel of the same name.

It has already released in India to good reviews and box office collection.

The opening scenes of the film were shot in India while a large section, dealing with ocean scenes, was shot in a giant water tank in Lee's birth country Taiwan. Director Ang Lee and other stars of the film Irrfan Khan and Tabu did not attend DIFF. Suraj, who has been appreciated globally for his debut performance as Pi, had some trouble during his semester exams due to short attendance at St Stephens College in Delhi but it has been sorted now. The actor seemed to be in good spirits as he attended the premiere here. — PTI

Actress Freida Pinto arrives for the opening ceremony of the 9th Dubai International Film Festival, as well as the screening of Life of Pi at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. — Reuters

Mass appeal

Actor Imran Khan says he never really gives in to a critic's opinion because for him appreciation from a large group of people matters the most. "I never really gave anyways to critic opinions because it is ultimately the opinion of one person, so why should I take the opinion of one critic? To me appreciation comes from large number of people," Imran said.

"If any one person says it (movie) is good, then it doesn't necessarily have to be good. When a whole lot of people say that it is bad, then I will listen to them. And when a whole lot of people will say it is good, then I will listen to them," he added. The actor made his Bollywood debut in 2008 with Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na and went on to do films like Delhi Belly, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan and Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu.

Imran is now looking forward to the release of his upcoming film Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola, in which he dons a typical Haryanvi look, however, he refuses to take the credit for it. "Look for the film was not really a hard work. I will not take the Imran Khan compliment for that because you have some really talented people, who helped me getting the perfect look," said Imran. "My costume designers, makeup artists have put in a lot of research and hard work for that. So I will not take the credit for that," he added.

Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola also features Anushka Sharma, Arya Babbar, Pankaj Kapoor and Shabana Azmi. It is slated for January 11 release. — IANS

People’s actor: Imran Khan

Fit and fine
Vidyut Jamwal among top five fittest men

'Force' actor Vidyut Jamwal has been ranked among the top five fittest men of 2012 by a men's magazine alongside Hrithik Roshan and wrestling champion Yogeshwar Dutt.

After making an impressive debut in Bollywood with his villainous role in 'Force', the Vidyut Jamwal 32-year-old is now the newest entrant in the fitness space, which was associated with the likes of Salman Khan, Hrithik and John Abraham.

Men's Health magazine has ranked him one of the top five fittest men of 2012.

Vidyut has also been voted as one of Sexiest Men Alive in 2012 by People magazine, which also features Ranbir Kapoor, Imran Khan, Ranveer Singh, Virat Kohli, Shahid Kapoor and others. The same magazine had named him in the Best Bodies list in 2011. — PTI

Top notch: Vidyut Jamwal

Brad Pitt's lucky life

Hollywood star Brad Pitt says his family life and career make him so happy that he feels like he has won the lottery. The 48-year-old actor raises six kids, Maddox, 11, Pax, eight, Zahara, seven, Shiloh, six, and four-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne, with fiancee Angelina Jolie.

"I have to get up at 6 am and make breakfast for six kids. I don't see my daily life as being that remarkable except for the fact that I've struck the lottery when it comes to my work and the opportunities it's given me," he said. While Pitt said he still has a great passion for starring in movies, he would rather spend more time with his children than on a movie set. "I'm very happy with the projects I've been involved with lately. I still have a great passion for storytelling," he added. — PTI

chatter box
Twist in the tale

After Mink and Vrajesh get evicted, the housemates are seen talking about their absence in the garden area. Urvashi is left in tears as she misses her close buddy Mink. Niketan, Rajev and Karishma console her. Meanwhile, Vishal and Sapna have a small argument over keeping the sun-bed near the pool instead of the gym area. Vishal dislikes Sapna’s comments and confirms that he will not move it until Bigg Boss asks him to.

Imam is seen arranging the vegetarian food in the kitchen counter. He drops the dal and a few rotis on the floor. On seeing this, Rajev and Karishma give him an earful and tell him to stay away from things. Urvashi is seen complimenting Imam’s character. Almost simultaneously, Imam is complimenting Urvashi’s persona and behaviour in general to Nirahua, Vishal and Santosh. Niketan has a discreet conversation with Rajev. Here, Niketan advices Rajev to nominate Delnaaz in the coming week. The night comes to an end with Aashka and Sana running around the garden area. The duo literally falls on each other and has a mini wrestling match in between them; Delnaaz tries to separate them.

The housemates wake up to an apt song – paisa paisa.  They notice a big grey chair placed in the garden area. Karishma and Sana have a close look at the chair and make their own assumptions. In some time, Imam walks into the housemates sitting in the dining area. Imam shows off as he had won Rs 5 lakhs for being the most entertaining. His sarcastic comments and taunts irritate a few others, but everyone keeps their calm and let him go.

Imam is then seen having a conversation with Delnaaz and Karishma. Delnaaz expresses her concern and requests Imam to stop wearing colourful masks etc and dress like a stud instead. Imam confesses that he is not straight anymore and says that he feels for men more these days. Karishma and Delnaaz tell him to start a family etc. Imam walks away and says he will explain his side of the story in detail some other time.

In sometime, Bigg Boss assembles all the housemates for this week’s nominations. All the housemates nominate the ones they dislike or disapprove. After all the tallying is done, Bigg Boss announces that this time around the housemates with the least number of votes will be nominated instead of the usual. The housemates are shell-shocked and split into laughter on hearing this unforeseen twist.

To make it more interesting, Bigg Boss even introduces a task called pechan kaun to all the housemates. Sapna is assigned the duty of reading all the dialogues/reasons delivered by the housemates to nominate the others. Each of the housemate had to guess the person on hearing their comment. All the housemates give in their best and at the end of it the most nominated contestants make fun of the others. They thank Bigg Boss for the twist in the tale.

As the night approaches, Sana is seen scratching her legs sitting beside Aashka and Delnaaz. Aashka raises her tone and tells Sana not to scratch her wounds. Delnaaz requests Sapna to call for some medicines. Aashka runs inside the house and starts crying as she is upset with Sana’s reaction on her concern. Sana and Delnaaz console Aashka and they patch up.

Inmates in Bigg Boss’ houseIn sometime, Bigg Boss introduces a stretcher for Vishal to teach him a lesson as he is generally lazy and loves to lie down on the sun bed. The housemates laugh and appreciate Bigg Boss’s thinking. Delnaaz is seen talking to Aashka about how Rajev has stopped talking to her post their spat in front of Salman Khan and exclaims how fake Rajev’s love was.

The night comes to an end as Vishal is literally carried by Niketan, Nirahua and Santosh into the boy’s room.

Inmates in Bigg Boss’ house

Playing mom
Mona says the new role is challenging

Mona Singh's second TV show Kya Hua Tera Vaada is on the verge of a leap and Mona, who played mom to teenagers, will now be a parent to grown-ups. We ask her about the changes and more.

After Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin why did you choose to play mom when you could have got any kind of role?

I didn’t get interesting offers, which is why for five years I did hosting. I anchored all kinds of shows. Then because I loved the premise of Kya Hua Tera Hua Vaada, IMona Singh took it on. I have got so many compliments from men and women, which means the show is working.

Usually adultery on TV is risky. Is it so?

Maybe, but the truth is women are going through similar situations. The concept is bold and hats off to Ekta for pulling this off. So many women I have met are glad my character fights back and moves on, doesn't cry.

What is challenging about the show?

The fact that I play a mom that I am not in real life, so it’s a challenge. I have learnt a lot about kids and moms through this show.

You didn’t do many movies post 3 Idiots, why?

I was keen, but no interesting scripts came by. I want something meaningful and challenging.  I'm not in a hurry.

Why don’t you talk about Vidyut Jamwal whom you are reportedly dating?

I don’t like to talk about my personal life.

New role: Mona Singh

Dutiful & happy

Jaipur-born actress Jayshree Soni, who has done shows such as Sunayna’, Ek Safar Aisa….., Kabhi Socha Na Tha, Agnipareeksha’, Jeevan ki Ganga et al, is in great demand. If you have seen Niyati, Creative Eye’s family drama, you will be aware that she plays the lead character Niyati in this daily soap that will complete 500 episodes on December 24. The show has taken a dramatic twist now. We dig in more.

Tell us about the new twist in the show?

I am playing a dutiful, virtuous woman Niyati, who has overcome all challenges thrown at her by life. Niyati now faces the biggest set-back a wife ever can— accepting a child whose biological father is her husband Amber.

How is the viewers’ response to your character so far?

My fans across all over appreciate my work. I believe in family values and helping everyone. I have become a woman of substance playing the character. I am grateful to my viewers.

What is Niyati all about?

It is an emotional story, which gives the message that a daughter can also take the responsibility of a son. Whatever is shown in this show is a reality.

How has the experience of working with your co-stars and producer Dheeraj Kumar been?

There is a great level of comfort even though you are working with a team of a renowned banner - Creative Eye. My co-stars are co-operative and always support me on the sets. I get positive energy sets working with Sachin Shroff.

Have you had any memorable moment on the sets of Niyati?

I have become very close to everyone. Every moment associated with this emotional drama has been memorable.

Jayshree SoniYour show is completing 500 episodes very soon. How do you feel?

I feel wonderful; I am really proud of my show and the team.

What next?

I am taking life as it comes. Some projects are in the pipeline. — Dharam Pal

value addition: Jayshree Soni

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Enjoy a quiet morning and get into any artistic project. Let your imagination run free; luck will be with you. Cash crisis resolves after 3 pm. Tarot message: Work could pose certain difficulties, but don’t worry. Lucky colour: Green. Magic number: 33

TAURUS: Today you will find people hard to pin down. Do not bury disturbing emotions, but work through them. Conflicting energies in the cosmos make this a good day for recharging your batteries. Tarot message: Get a clear perspective before taking decisions. Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 51

GEMINI: Your card the Sword signifies that enduring relationships can be formed with new people who live at a distance. Benefits are assured by not taking the comments of others personally. Tarot message: Do not play into the hands of a shrewd set of colleagues. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 34

CANCER: Concentrate on your career path and the business at hand. Be flexible in your thinking. Look at a problem from different angles and you can find a simple, albeit unexpected solution. Tarot message: Dare to accomplish long-term tasks. Lucky colour: Rainbow pastels. Magic number: 39

LEO: Today attention revolves around your home, property, family and long-term decisions. Money rolls in after lunch. You will have to modify your plans. Friends’ company stimulates you. Tarot message: You will be happier if you retain the fruit of your hardwork. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 27

VIRGO: Hobbies will give you much satisfaction. Discuss investment opportunities. Real estate matters may suffer. Business negotiations will give you a chance to shine. Tarot message: It is the thought that counts, not the price tag. Lucky colour: Saffron. Magic number: 45

LIBRA: A good day for romance. Avoid gossiping because it can spoil your chances of success. Think long-term. Do not try to rush other people. Be realistic before applying for more credit. Tarot message: Be active in catching financial opportunities. Lucky colour: Yellow. Magic number: 47

SCORPIO: Do not be afraid to get things off your chest. Go along with the wishes of your family members. Do not be too demanding from loved ones. Frank discussion could clear the air. Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance. Lucky colour: Deep-red. Magic number: 32

SAGITTARIUS: The day is rather sensitive for those married. Pay more attention towards your health. Do not take on chores that would tire you physically. Appointments could fill up your day. Tarot message: Be firm in extracting a commitment. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 29

CAPRICORN: Emotions have to be controlled. Partners may not agree with your plans. There is no need to put your hard-earned money at stake. A positive outlook in life is important. Tarot message: Take care of the interests and portfolios of your work. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 42

AQUARIUS: Hopes fill your heart. If you are planning to buy a house, a good offer is on the cards. Patience and hardwork pays richly. Focus on leadership and inspiration. You can make new acquaintances and enjoy visiting new places. Tarot message: Try to relax. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 61

PISCES: Surprising events can lead to a major rethink on what you are doing with your life. Home renovations will need more money than you had planned for. Speak to your partner about using joint finances to cover the extra loan. Tarot message: Involve yourself in a new project. Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 58

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is December 11...

Try to control your emotions, especially anger. All commitments and financial transactions need to be handled carefully. Health of your spouse may cause reason for stress and anxiety. Take care of your action and words as an authority figure will be less understanding.

You'll probably be upset by some news; this could come form a credit institute or an impatient supplier. You'll be able to rekindle your feelings for your beloved and be gentle towards him or her. Don’t fall victim to your inner critic. You've got to further develop your raw talent, but you're afraid you will fail. There's one way to find out: try! You may struggle at first, but if you ask for help, you'll overcome the difficult phase. An understanding tutor will present material in a comprehensible way. This isn't a good time to enter into a legal agreement. An executive is pressurising you to sign away your rights. Protect your interests because nobody else will do it for you.

Your easygoing nature helps you please customers though you may feel like a doormat at times! Try not to build up too much resentment, as that isn't helping anyone. Your mood should actually be pretty sweet.

You'll be highly stimulating, winning over your co-workers with your banter. However, try not to talk too much. Play for time. Soon, destiny will present new and interesting opportunities.

Students can look forward to a period of progress. Hardwork put in earlier would win you laurels now. An opportunity to go overseas for further studies is likely.

An opportunity to start a new venture with quick financial gains is likely. You should not spend too much time thinking about it and accept the offer quickly. It would definitely bring you big profits. You'll be more charming than ever and in great shape. Control your eating habits; otherwise you are likely to suffer from some problems. Your personal life will benefit from the company of friends. Having your support team nearby can be helpful in a public place.

Mood: Focused on necessities.

Compatible signs: Capricorn, Leo.

Lucky colours: Golden-red, Sky-blue.

Lucky days: Friday and Sunday.

Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 16, 22, 25.

You share your birthday with Dilip Kumar (Yusuf Khan, December 11, 1922, Peshawar), who started his career in 1944. He was spotted in Crawford Market fruit stall, which was run by his father, by a leading director from Bombay Talkies of those years, Amiya Chakravarty, who was a protege of Devika Rani. His first film Jwar Bhata was released in 1944. Devdas (1955) and Madhumati (1958) earned him the title of ‘tragedy king’. Ganga Jamuna, Ram Aur Shyam, Bairaag, Mughal-e-Azam, Kranti are also some of his memorable films. He was awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1994.





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