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Thrill of the Grill
It's amazing how a burnt piece of log can warm up the entire circle of friends. How a little fire outside kitchen can raise the gourmet experience several notches, make an evening and put a pause to the harrows and hurries of a busy life. Raise a toast to barbecues and bonfires, making merry and grilling your way to glory.
Just chill For those who've liked their steaks a little their way, it doesn't get better. Laughs Karan Singh Chhabra, software engineer, IBM, "The best thing about barbecue parties is food. On a serious note, barbecue parties are perfect for winters, grilled food, bonfire, terrace, casual set up et al." He adds, "I have a socialite friend who has the entire set up in white on her terrace and with accessories like guitar, it gets even better. But in such dos, the host has to be very careful. You have to be around the fire, taking care of the food. One can't start moving around and mingling with the guests. Or you have a friend who'd love to barbecue for you. Or guests who would love to take turns." More for less Nevertheless, it gets simpler for singletons, the women around or those looking to host a nice evening without having jobs to do, running around for errands all day. "It's any day easier than hosting a fine dining or a fancy thing. You don't have to make countless dishes in advance and then worry about serving them hot, or even reheating them," shares Neha Grover, a homemaker. She adds, "My pad is a party zone for most of my friends and that's the easiest thing to arrange. If everyone brings their meats or veggies to grill, all the more." Arrange for the cutlery and crockery, couple of drinks doing the rounds, appetizers and a lot of conversations. It's like meeting over the backyard grill for several small occasions. During winters, it's perfect. Moreover, it gives the ladies a little respite, lets the men take over; take a shot at readying their own food. Shares DJ Tuli, "For couples, it works out especially fine. At least the lady of the house doesn't spend her entire time in the kitchen and running to and fro." Then, there's ambience and the warm feel in the winter chill, coupled with open space and some close friends. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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A heady mix
It took him over two years of intense work, using session musicians sourced from Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, apart from India, to come up with his version of the Lady. That is, a music album with an interesting mix of American R&B, Reggae, Bhangra, Euro pop, African flavours with a strong bassline. Laughs South African artist, Kissh, "It's titled Lady because as the name suggests, it is for all the ladies," who was in Chandigarh, at Score, to promote his album. Where there are ladies, can men be far behind? "It is also for all the men who are in love. It talks about love in a realistic way and the emotions people go through when they separate. It's about how two people in love feel for each other, it is also about the love of life called music."
The eight tracks, pack in everything from blend of pop to club songs to ballads and even some Punjabi bhangra numbers. "It's been in production for over two years now. The music has been done in many countries. Apart from singing, I helped compose some of the music and even lyrics for some of the songs." Like with all things debut, there is an inspiration from his own life. "For artists, emotions have been the most important thing in life. Something that enables them to create a world that people connect with. At the same time, they can't be false emotions and there can't be a fake world." Nevertheless, his debut club album, having been recorded in Mumbai, inevitably, packs in a strong influence of Bollywood flavour. "I've been in India for the past two years. While I love Bollywood music, at the same time, it is important for me to differentiate my music. It can't be totally Bollywood," shares the artist, who was born and brought up in South Africa. On his first visit to the city, he's all set to test the crowd and its tastes. "I'll be playing three four of the songs from my debut album. Apart from that, a couple of tracks from Student of The Year." manpriya@tribubnemail.com
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Notes from the heart
For us There is no revolution….are the lines translated from Lal Singh Dil’s poetry that talks of the deep rooted social prejudice. Poet of the Revolution — The Memoirs and Poems of Lal Singh Dil is a tribute to him by Nirupama Dutt, a poet, journalist and translator. Published by Penguin, this book is close to Nirupama’s heart. “Dil was a powerful voice of sixties and seventies. Unlike many of his contemporaries who came from middle class strata of society, Dil wrote about the trying circumstances that he went through first hand.” When people had already written their thesis on him, Dil, the true fakir was still running a tea stall in Samrala. Like most of his friends, I too feel we did not do enough for him. This book is an effort to make amends for that.” Dil lived a life of struggle. A Dalit, he was first in his family to complete schooling and move ahead. In his college, he was drawn towards the Naxalite movement. He did odd chores to support self, and continued to pen his thoughts. His works, three collections of poetry and an autobiography, Dastaan sheds light on the turbulent years in his fiery manner. Having had the chance to spent time with Dil, Nirupama got a warm reception when she initially translated a few of his works from Punjabi. Her latest book has already garnered appreciation. Though this translation was not a cakewalk. “The most challenging was to put his very rustic, typical Malawai dialect in English,” she confesses. While the first draft was quite ‘Pinglish’, she did numerous follow ups to make it more relevant to English readers. This Punjabi Akademi Award recipient for her anthology of poems, Ik Nadi Sanwali Jahi (A Stream Somewhat Dark), Nirupama has translated many contemporary writers of Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu. And is proud today that quite an impressive chunk of Punjabi literature is available to the world outside. “I am fluent in English but my language remains to be Punjabi,” she avers. In April, the biography of Bant Singh, another Dalit activist and singer hits the stands while she is also busy translating three novellas of Amrita Preetam. She wants to take a break from translation next and dreams of writing her own novel… Back to Dil, here’s Just Like That — Just like that, some storms/ Just like that, some tremors/ Just like that some fight/ Just like that, some love… mona@tribunemail.com
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In tune with Bollywood
When language turns into lyrics, comprehension comes naturally. That’s the beauty of music. It literally has no bars. For three-member female band from Philippines, Musika Anghel, even more so. “We don’t understand Hindi, we can only speak little bit of it but we can sing, Kuch Is Tarah and Tera Hone Laga Hoon and some songs from Jism 2,” shares Lolita Simon San Miguel, the band member and the singer. The heavily accented voice doesn’t falter with the lyrics.
The trio is all set to regale the evenings at Pride KC Hotel and Spa, Panchkula, with songs that can get as varied as music genres. “We’ll be performing a variety of songs. We play jazz, classical, love songs, slow, chartbusters, everything.” There’s the keyboard and lots of singing to go along. “The original music from Philippines is very easy to learn. At least, we find it easy, for others it might be difficult. You have some basic instruments like keyboard, drum and guitar.” While the earlier gigs comprised campus events like annual functions and competitions back in Manila, lately it’s been living out of a suitcase. Courtesy, passion for music. “For eight good years, we performed in Philippines, but after that we moved and now we tour extensively. We’ve already done performances at Britain, Middle East, Korea, China and now India.” As for Bollywood, they are still getting the hang of it. “We’ve seen the movie in which there’s this song Chammak Challo.” She adds, “Bollywood music is good to listen to. One can feel the songs but you have to have your heart and soul inside Bollywood music.” Something that holds true for any genre of music. The musical orientation doesn’t stop at Hindi. “We are learning Punjabi too. We can sing Pooja Kiwein Aa, Ki Kardi Si.” She adds, “That’s all we can sing as of now. But we are picking up some other tracks too. ”
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Fighting the odds
Injustice against women is a topic that has raised dust in international conferences and at the local level. Every day brings to light cases of injustice that send shudders down the spine. Despite this, the story remains more or less the same. Asha Manwani, a social worker from Ajmer, recipient of Neerja Bhanot award 2012, in Chandigarh, talks about some basics that can gradually cut through the existing scenario.
At 55, Asha is not only sorting out the problem of women, explaining them legal nuances, fighting for them, she is still running around to get her ex-husband to pay her basic compromise money, which is Rs 250 for the children and 500 for her. “Things will only change if women understand their rights,” says Asha who runs Lakshta Mahila Sansthan in Ajmer. Every month Asha gets 4-5 cases relating to dowry and domestic violence. “Even now I have to go back to attend some dowry cases,” says the confident Asha who was humiliated and made to suffer by her husband because of her short height. But she rose tall, above her problems to set example. “Dowry problem will always be a part of our society. Nothing has changed and nothing will change,” she adds. The solution? “It is the mindset of people that needs to be whipped, tossed and turned over. Girls should be totally against dowry. Secondly, the girls’ parents should succumb under no pressure to give dowry. And lastly, the boy or the groom should say no to this evil practice,” Asha puts in. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Colours of imagination
Old world charm lends itself to colour and canvas like no other. Foggy mornings, crowded streets, busy skyline, narrow lanes, winter evenings… there is a world waiting to be explored.
Ananta Mandal, 29, Kolkata-born and Mumbai-based water colour artist, does just that; take escapades to capture the essence of the place. His tenth solo exhibition, The Journey, brings forth the charm of places like Kashmir, Rajasthan, Mumbai and Kolkata. “I passed out of the Government College of Art, Kolkata and started my journey by capturing the old-world charm of the place.” Coming up with a series on the city of Varanasi, celebrating the ghaats, a subject that has often lent itself to the imagination of many artists. “It has been done countless times before but no two people will capture the same thing in the same way. My vision will be completely different from all the other artists and vice versa.” As for the City Beautiful, it’s again the colour and the beauty that he would like to draw upon, albeit in a different way. “I’d like to do human portraits. I’d like to paint the beautiful girls, colourful turbans and beards.” There’s a story behind every city. On till December 25 at Art Portfolio - 9,
Chandigarh.
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Stress buster Renee Singh
It is very important for us to live a non-judgmental life. Be completely here and now rather the dwelling in the past or thinking about the future. It is very important for us to understand the effects of stress as it can become very challenging wading through it all. Understanding stress and what actually causes it is very important. It is only when we have an in depth analysis of why we are stressing that we can find ways and means of rectifying our situation. Stop stress reaction right now When you stress, the physical reaction is either to run or fight. If you don’t act adequately in a situation it takes a toll on your health. Wrong attitude can make you sick If you have spent months in a stressful situation or even short periods of compromise your immune system can go down Psychosomatic illnesses Prolonged periods of stress can lead to various kinds of stressful states in life. Stop reacting When you experience extreme stress, all manners of physical changes occur. It is up to you to fight your circumstances and not react negatively to whatever is occurring around you. Stress ages you prematurely Stress speeds up the wear and tear on many areas of your body and at all levels, inducing many changes which we refer to as aging. Some stress is beneficial Some stress is necessary for a balanced and exciting life. Take charge of your life Mindfulness is a practice of becoming fully aware of the moment and being in the ‘now’. It involves a heightened awareness of sensory stimuli. You don’t have to attach any religious aspects to it, anyone with any belief system can enjoy its benefits. It can be achieved through meditation but we can also practice it while living our day to day lives. Learning to focus on the present moment and silencing our inner dialogue is a great way to achieve mindfulness. When teamed with cognitive therapy the benefits are great. Cognitive therapy is very effective in treating severe stress, anxiety disorders or depression. Stress can cause mood disorders which interfere with a happy life. Cognitive therapy is a great mode of treatment. This therapy rests on the premise that it’s not the events that cause stress, it’s the way we react to them. Our thoughts and our negative self talk colours our experience. For example, one person when stuck in a traffic jam is listening to music and enjoying, the other one is focusing on wasted time and feeling trapped and distressed. It is just a difference of thought in the same situation. Most people have found a cognitive approach very beneficial. If you would like to avail of the benefits of this approach just change your way of thinking. See a therapist, this helps. But the most important way of doing it is by changing your habitual thought patterns in the interest of stress relief. (Singh is a Chandigarh based psychotherapist)
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STAR TRACK Bollywood actresses have to work hard at maintaining their figures. Nevertheless, they indulge once in a while. We tell you who likes to eat what!
Crème de la crème 
Chocolate girl Something for everyone
Host with the most
Riya Sen enchanted band members of Guns N Roses, especially Axl Rose and partied in their suite in Delhi until the wee hours of the morning. She also took them to some nice party places in Delhi and now the legendary singer has invited her to LA to hang out! Hmm, what's cooking here!
Night out: Riya Sen
Salman’s chock-a-block with films
Among these, Sajid Nadiadwala's directorial debut, Kick is the first one. The Dabangg star has officially confirmed that he will start shooting for Nadiadwala's Hindi remake of a South film next year. "After the release of Dabangg 2, I will start working on Sajid's film around April-May next year," said Salman. Incidentally, he has committed to a couple of other films too, while he is also keen on Sooraj Barjatya's film. "There is the sequel of No Entry and a Ramesh Taurani film that are in the pipeline. Barjatya is also working on the script." Meanwhile, it is heard that the actor is also looking for a suitable script for a film he intends to produce under his banner, Being Human. Looks like, 2013 is going to be another busy year for
Salman.
In love and war
Singers Katy Perry and John Mayer showed off their love at a Rolling Stones concert in New Jersey, where they held hands and mingled with the iconic band backstage. One day after she introduced Mayer as her "boyfriend" to the cast of Broadway's A Christmas Story, the Wide Awake singer, 28, accompanied him to the concert at Newark's Prudential Center. Arriving at the venue shortly before the event started, the couple held hands as they mingled with the band backstage, reported a magazine. While Mayer, 35, chatted up Keith Richards and Ron Wood, his pop star girlfriend smiled and laughed adoringly, a witness said.
A short time later, Perry - in a black blazer, T-shirt, printed scarf, and black pants - was escorted to the pit while her beau stayed behind to tune up his guitar. After joining the band onstage to perform Respectable, the star headed down to enjoy the rest of the concert with Perry. "They rocked out. They were especially excited during Miss You and Start Me Up, but they were so into the whole show," an onlooker says of the pair, who've been going strong ever since reuniting in September after a brief separation. — PTI
Mugdha Godse loves wearing Indian outfits though she hardly gets a chance to wear them. She also loves dressing casually unless she has to make appearances. She is really fond of travelling and does not care about luxurious hotels because she has an adventurous streak. She is a calm and a quiet person.
Way off: Mugdha Godse
Objection overruled
Vishal Bhardwaj is unhappy that his movie Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola has got an adult certificate from the Censor Board because of one funny phrase used in the movie which sounds like a bad word! He is going to send it to the Revising Committee because this movie is meant for everyone!
On the go
Shazahn Padamsee has a fancy internet tablet which helps her sort out her work and keeps her busy during breaks. She loves all the applications and is a gizmo freak. She likes the games, Fruit Ninja and Temple Run, a lot. Net gain:
Shazahn Padamsee
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chatter box After enthralling audiences with shows of different genres, Colors is all set to bring to its viewers the untold tales of Maa Durga with the launch of its new show, Jai Jag Janani Maa Durga. A childhood folklore that we were all told about at some time in our life, Durga is one deity that is common in most Indian households. The show captures the story of Durga from the time of her birth and aspects of her life that have never been seen on the silver screen before. It describes the avatar of Durga as a young girl, who is a manifestation of Maa Durga to an equally powerful woman who protects innocent victims against evil forces. The show marks its beginning with sage Vyasa having finished writing Durga’s story and handing over the manuscript to Sootji, his trusted sage who will further continue to read it out to the other rishis and munis. Daya Shankar Pandey will be seen portraying Sootji’s character, thereby taking care of the narration of the show. Jai Jag Janani Maa Durga’s story will be showcased from its inception showing her as the adishakti who has created the universe.
No time to rest!
Actor Vikramjeet Virk, who was last seen as Ghajnavi in Zee TV’s Shobha Somnath Ki, will be now seen in Colors’ Durga. He will be seen as Kalkeyi in the show. Actors like Daya Shankar Pandey, Tarakesh Chauhan, Kunal Bakshi, Amit Pachori, Nitin Prabhat, Kiran Sharda, Manish Bishla, Raginee Rishi, Dheeraj Miglani and Komal Sharma will be part of this show. Furthermore, Piyali Munshi will be seen playing the character of Maa
Durga.
She’s back in news. This time for an alleged sex tape that is doing the rounds. However, Rakhi denies it saying that she won’t do such things for publicity. She was shocked to hear about the tape and claims that it’s her enemies trying to spoil her image. She also slammed Mika Singh and wants royalty for his success. “He has become a hit only after he kissed me. Uski aawaz mein usi ke baad dum aya. He should give me royalty,” she told media. BIG MOUTH: Rakhi Sawant
Simran Kaur, who became a household name as Diya of Na Aana Is Des Laado, loves her character in the latest show Anamika. She admits that she was getting offers for similar roles as Diya and it took her some time before she bagged Anamika’s role. She feels that the character is very challenging and has many shades. She also worked on her expressions as it’s a role of a chudail and she needs to look aggressive.
Chulbul disappoints!
The media was abuzz with news that Dabangg star Salman Khan would shoot with the cast and crew of Star Plus’ Diya Aur Baati Hum to promote his upcoming film Dabangg 2. After a lot of delays, he did come to the sets and shot the scene with the cast. However, the rest of the unit was left disappointed. Reason being that
A source informs, “He stayed secluded and just gave his shot and did not interact with anybody. Though he did click pictures with a few who insisted, but the rest did not get to shake hands with him. However, his co-star Sonakshi Sinha was friendly and posed with everyone.” |
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Astro turf
ARIES: You will stay focused and alert. Working with colleagues and gaining their support will lead to faster progress. Seek the advice of those with more experience to get clarity.
Tarot message: Don’t get involved in situations you dislike. Lucky colour: Aqua
Lucky number: 63
TAURUS: You're just trying to understand what others around you are thinking so you can plan ahead. Avoid excess spending. Loved ones may not fully understand your daily needs. Tarot message: Take up work that you can handle well.
Lucky colour: Sea green Lucky number: 48 GEMINI: Do not overlook a chance meeting that may lead to future romance. Adopt a healthier life style. Today you will be quite amazed to find yourself taking on a more ambitious role. Tarot message: Watch your actions at work and polish your public relation skills. Lucky colour: Mauve
Lucky number: 43 CANCER: You are likely to find an ideal partner. Be bold to speak out what is in your mind. Relax, things will clear up and you will find your work progress by evening. A happy surprise awaits you. Tarot message: Beware of depleting your energy or resources on others. Lucky
colour: Peach Lucky number: 38 LEO: You will enjoy interacting with people who share your views and thoughts. Your ability to communicate effectively will help you. Today loved ones will be more demanding. Trust your intuition.
Tarot message: Arrogance and pride will not be rewarded. Lucky colour: Chocolaty brown
Lucky number: 55 VIRGO: You find ways to express your emotions. Your personal interests are likely to be stagnant. Activities with your partner and friends will make you happy.
Tarot message: At work, a setback would be followed by rapid progess, so don’t worry.
Lucky colour: Burgundy Lucky number: 49
LIBRA: Today, a long cherished dream may come true. Do not try any short cuts as they may misfire. Be understanding and keep in mind the likes and dislikes of your mate. Tarot message: Do not refuse offers without seeking advice from someone
else. Lucky colour: Sap green Lucky number: 29 SCORPIO: Youngsters should be capable of entertaining themselves and they will be happiest left to their own pleasures. Complicated family issues require consideration. Tarot message: A dissatisfactory phase will need gentle handling rather than temperamental extremes. Lucky colour: Sky blue
Lucky number: 44 SAGITTARIUS: A new business venture is just on the cards. Minor jealousies are best addressed in the moment. Tonight plan creative distractions or group events. Tensions will be easily forgotten. You tend to be lazy and laid back today. Tarot message: Feel free to change your mind. Lucky colour: Pink. Lucky number: 37 CAPRICORN: A close friend needs delicate advice concerning strained relationships or unexpected emotional triangles. Old memories may now provide valuable social wisdom. Tarot message: If you insist on leading a fast life, you may aggravate your problems. Lucky colour: Maroon
Lucky number: 54 PISCES: Expect loved ones to propose new forms of entertainment or ask for greater involvement in your daily life. This is an excellent time to foster friendships or develop unique hobbies. Tarot message: Do not get tied down by any promises.
Lucky colour: Orange Lucky number: 46
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The year ahead
If your birthday is December 17...
Things may not be turning out exactly as you had planned, but it really doesn't matter. The fact is that new opportunities are coming your way. Go for the ones that feel right. Remain cautiously optimistic about a personal project. You can make a success of this endeavour. Don't let cynics deter your progress. A reward for something you did may not be what you had expected. If you feel this way, share your concern. You've got a way with words. Exchanging ideas with friends gives you a burst of energy. You may be asked to be the leader of a group. This is not the favourable time for public relations or dealing with community affairs. Hectic travelling brings some frustration. Those in positions of power will grant you favours and help you. You are inspired. If you want others to approach you, first you must approach them. A positive 2013 is ahead, so do not fear anything. Finally, you'll be calmer and will worry less in January. A close friend in March will give you sound advice and this will be helpful in dealing with problems you have in your relationship.You may suffer a minor migraine due to psychosomatic reasons, take good care of your health. Property matters will be on the right track now. Mood: Emotional and vulnerable. Compatible signs: Taurus, Cancer. Lucky colours: Cherry Red, Purple. Lucky numbers: 7, 12, 15, 45, 50.
John Abraham (December 17, 1972, Mumbai) was a model. He started his Bollywood career with film, Jism. He then played a negetive role in the film Dhoom in 2004 which was a hit. Taxi no 9211, Baabul and Kabul Express also did well. John will do well in films in the coming times also.
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If you are taking children along, it's your responsibility to prevent them from running around the fire or the grill. Always bring your own activities to keep the children gainfully employed.
Some of the 20 exhibits showcase the busy narrow lane of Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kolkata, some old cityscapes in the city. Moving on, there’s Bandra Ceiling, Mumbai, Dal Lake of Kashmir, camels in Rajasthan and famous skyline of Mumbai. Some of the canvases bring out the beauty of omnipresent taxis, while others draw on steam engines, ships, buses with their lights shining through the fog, dim colours et al. “Whenever you go to any place or come across any subject, your brain and eyes suggest this particular things or scene can be a painting. That signal decides the subject of my painting.” He adds, “Then there’s some composition and elimination you do in your mind and that’s how the final product comes into being.” 
“Live in the present,” they say. Generally we make it a habit to constantly dwell in either past or the future. And since we are also constantly evading the present moment, we are creating unnecessary stress for ourselves.
Weak in the knees
Swiss tooth!
her friends and indulges in rich chocolate cakes and pastries in patisseries around the world. She loves gulab jamun too.
Even before the New Year dawns, people are drawing up a long list of things to do. Except for Salman Khan whose 2013 calendar is already choc-o-bloc with a series of films.
The show will feature a real life lion as a character to add more authenticity to the show. The graphics and special effects are done by using the latest technology. A lot of research was done while designing the sets. In this show, Durga will be seen coming to the rescue of the gods to stop the terror spread by evil Asura Kalkeyi. She takes birth in Rishi Katyayani’s ashram where he and his wife are ardent Durga bhakts. She grows up into a young girl who is 7-8 years old and lives with her family in the ashram. The bubbly, cheerful girl, whose miraculous ways are not known to anyone in the ashram helps the people around her with her shakti in every way she can. But each time asur is sent down to kill her, she takes the avatar of Mahadevi Durga and kills the demon before taking back the form of the little girl again. Tune in to Jai Jag Janani Maa Durga, every Monday to Friday at 7 pm.
TV actors don’t even have the time to fall sick as they’re required to shoot continuously. The latest to fall sick is Ankita Sharma of Amrit
Manthan. The poor Delhi girl, who first came to limelight with the ill-fated show Sawaare Sabke Sapne Preeto, is down with a viral infection. She has fever, cough, cold with body aches, but still she’s shooting. The actress has no time to rest. Poor girl.
they didn’t get to click pictures with Chulbul
Pandey.
AQUARIUS: This is the time to enjoy with family. Tonight, review financial records. Do watch for ongoing romantic attractions. Avoid acting as mediator and wait for obvious cues from loved ones.
Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confusion yourself. Lucky colour: Yellow
Lucky number: 61
Lucky days: Wednesday and Thursday.