Lesson in tradition
Nonika Singh

Dipping into the river of tradition, poet, playwright and director Arjun Deo Charan not only creates anew each time but also in step with the needs of the changing world

In times where we all blame each other for the ills afflicting society, here comes a man who firmly believes the change begins with 'I'. That this 'I' is a one-man army in himself is another matter. Celebrated poet, playwright and director Arjun Deo Charan plays many roles. Besides running his own theatre group he is also the chairperson of Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Akademy as well the head of the department of Rajasthani at Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur.

Yet whatever may be the responsibility his varied roles entail, all take him to one goal. To enrich the world of aesthetics and to put a question mark on degenerative as well as decadent practices. Hailing from the land of Rajasthan, equally rich in history and folk lore, it is the lok gaathayein that hold his interest precisely because while history belongs to kings and rulers, folklore is oral history told from the common man's point of view.

In people's power he affirms great faith and that is the subject of his play Yum Leela, a political satire that he brought to the City Beautiful as part of Theatre for Theatre Festival. Not surprising then, he views the new tidings of change in India as good signals. But he puts in a rider over peoples' protests and says. "These will become meaningful only if these battles are fought ethically." In fact, as he dips into the recesses of the past, as he relooks at tradition, it is ethical questions and the need to forsake individual selfish greed that assumes significance.

He says, "The whole purpose of re-looking at tradition is to understand it in the right context, question it and learn lessons from it." Only be it when he writes poems on seven epic women characters such as Sati, Sita, Amba, Meera, Padmini or as he is busy writing his new play on Dropadi, his sensitivity and sensibilities stem from a woman's point of view. Women have been the central leitmotif of many of his plays, including the Sahitya Akademi Award winning Dharam Yudh.

Theatre, he asserts, is a significant tool of awakening, but for him it is also a means to satiate one's soul. His understanding of theatre comes from Natyashastra, "Why look at Western theories when we have a rich treasure trove of our own?" as well as from folk theatre of his state. As against literature penned by writers patronised by rulers that brimmed with veer ras, he feels that lok gaatheyein are mostly love stories.

Undeniably there is no emotion more supreme than love, as long as it is neither self-love nor driven by beauty. Making a clear-cut demarcation between aesthetics and beauty, he avers, "While beauty engenders lust, aesthetics incorporates higher values of life." As the world is getting out of tune with its aesthetic sensibilities and losing touch with its traditional roots, this fountainhead of tradition and wisdom is devoted to how best to enrich lives.

Perfect balance

Having the rare distinction of being a recipient of Sahitya Akademi and Sangeet Natak Akademy Awards, Arjun Deo Charan agrees that the writer in him does come in clash with the director within. He says, "For when I write, I feel I have so much to say but when the director takes over I feel a gesture, an expression, a move, a word can suffice." Finally, he opines theatre is a balance of both words and visuals neither of which can dominate the narrative.

Culture connect

As the chairman of the Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Akademy, Arjun Deo Charan, doesn't believe in merely putting up performances. Organisations such as these, which he is helming, he feels, can play a very productive role in creating knowledgeable viewers. Hence among other activities that the Akademy organises, it holds seminars, discussions and lecture demonstrations to ensure that future generations understand their culture and traditions.

A smile goes a mile
Mona

Comedian Khayali has a joke up his sleeve at any given point of time. Deep inside, there is a man who is serious about sharing the fruits of his success with people...

Ever as fit as a fiddle Khayali walks into our office on a cold Wednesday morning, he cannot but share his fitness mantra: "A fit body needs good diet that I duly have —logon ka dimag, padosiyon ki galiyan, biwi ke jutte."

This comedian has certainly made his mark. The last decade has brought in loads of things — the humble scooter has been replaced by flights that take him around the world for shows; from his humble village it is the five stars that host him; graduating from shows, he has films in his kitty...no more does he need to introduce himself, as people point out Khayali Ji ja rahe hain.

Deep inside, he is the same man though. The same hardwork drives him as does his old team of organisers, friends and neighbours. In Chandigarh, for a show, Khayali shares what a roller-coaster ride, life has been for him.

One language

Only man has the blessing to laugh, a donkey can't. My shows give me a chance to visit new places, meet new people but what I admire is that we all laugh in the same language. So haso aur hasao, it keeps you fit both physically and mentally.

Deep study

Bina pade vidvan is the motto of my school. Oasis International School is where I intend to promote rural kids and their talent. Even those who don't want to study have a right to be successful. Also, artistes' last stage is very lonely; I wanted to have a home and family so large that the two rounds of it take care of my entire day. The school promises this as well as a career for children.

Movie meter

Since I am getting a chance, I will also interpret Charlie Chaplin the way Raj Kapoor did, Raj Kapoor the way Ranbir did and more. Baaja Baja Dunga and Jiyo Life Bindaas are almost ready for release. Meanwhile, TV and live shows keep me occupied. It is good business for artistes today as people want them, be it a birthday party or chautha.

Learning ground

I assume I was the first dasvi pass lecturer teaching acting in the city. Chandigarh has given me a lot, most of all proper guidance and exposure. It's here that I got initial platform at the Plaza, Chandigarh carnival, Rose festival, which paved the way for Mumbai.

Caring thought

Apart from comedy, I do try to know music but so far it has eluded me. I do sing at a corporate show for I know they don't have a singer and would not pull me down the stage. And, yes, I do work for the trust that I have set up in my grandfather's name right from blood donation camps to providing for orphans and disabled to other charitable ventures.

Family front

By the grace of God, my sons are both settled. Both are 'nil' in studies. While Rehan has found his calling in engineering, you will eventually find our fridge wired to the washing machine or the cooler at our home; Manav loves the stage and is happy doing that. Anyways, I am not a demanding father, but I am glad they have started rather early.

Work on

Bin mange aaj tak milta gaya. So shall it be in future. I go by the Gita — work and leave the rest…

mona@tribunemail.com

Star value
Jasmine Singh

The new Range Rover Vogue is one beauty you would like to keep by your side till eternity

We wouldn't know what rapport did the French author Francoise Sagan shared with his cars, but the lady sure had something in her mind when she wrote, "Money may not buy happiness, but I'd rather cry in a Jaguar than on a bus! Did it you smile?

Just as you enter Taj Chandigrah, towards the left, shinning under the sun that has returned after a long break she stands tall. She is like a star who knows her value. She knows no matter what you will be pulled towards her beauty. We bet you are. She represents the fourth generation, and time has only engineered and instilled 'class' in it. Jaguar Land Rover's new sports utility vehicle Range Rover Vogue brought to Chandigarh by Dada Motors will leave you in awe. As you get up close and personal with the beauty you realise why she is worth the Rs 1.80 crore (ex showroom) price tag.

The man standing next to him, Rishi Dada, managing director Dada Motors, is definitely under a spell. He has virtually been around her for many days, and can tell what she likes and how she behaves. "The new Range Rover Vogue has a unique command driving position that places the driver in the elevated, upright seating position—almost 90mm higher than other premium SUVs," he shares. Rishi takes us around what he calls super luxury personified machine.

He opens the doors exposing her completely. Up graded seating with multi-mode massage and an executive class rear seating package. "We spend almost 33 per cent of our day driving a car. But you hop into this machine, you will feel fresh," Rishi smiles. A salon like feeling is what describes the interiors the best. Here, in Range Rover Vogue everything happens with a touch (that's how the money is also paid. Touch of your signature on the cheque book!). A touch for the LED ambient lighting, with the ability to change the colour scheme to suit the drivers mood, a single touch for the climate control and a touch for the soft door close with power latching.

A machine like this, we bet you wouldn't want to take her out on a lone drive, in the hills, probably put her off the road taking her though a small village with no tarmac.

In that case, Range Rover Vogue has got something for you--adaptive cruise control. She knows when to switch mode if she hits the rocks or cuts through the hills! Are you sweating from the humongous amenities she is offering? There she goes again, she can heat or cool the wood and leather steering as you want it. And with a 5.0 lt 510 PS LR-V8 supercharged petrol engine and 4.4 lt 339 PS SD V8 diesel engine, this machine can be taken out for a long, refreshing drive.

"See, it has all the styling genes of super luxury and comfort. And if you love to keep her company, you can book and place orders," adds Rishi who celebrates the completion of the 50th year of the automobile marvel Dada Motors started by his father and group Chairman Suraj Dada.

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Tune in
Music that connects
Manpriya Singh

Even the ghazal loving population will have a tough time describing it, let alone defining it. While those who don’t care much, would still be able to make out a ghazal from the ordinary songs. At best, a ghazal is a form of light classical music with poetic lyrics to match. Lyrics that traditionally deal with the subject of love, separation, loss, pain, life, longing and even metaphysical questions. A traditional one consists of five to 15 couplets, typically seven.

Hall of fame

It ought to begin from the poster boy of ghazal, Jagjit Singh. There may be greater names to get started with but the late maestro deserves a mention for ensuring that the dying breed of music remained alive among the current generation. From Tum Jo Itna Muskara Rahe Ho to Tum Ko Dekha, the list of his hits runs long. The popularity of ghazals can equally be attributed to stalwarts like Ghulam Ali, Pankaj Udhas and Mehdi Hassan. Then there’s Talat Mahmood, Begum Akhtar, Penaz Masani. Ghulam Ali, the Pakistani ghazal singer of the Patiala gharana, is considered by far the best of his era. His Chupke Chupka Raat Din is perhaps as much loved today a decade back.

In the same league lies Mehdi Hassan, yet another Pakistani and former playback singer. Pankaj Udhas became a name in the industry with his instant hit Chithi Aayi Hai. The singer continued with the hit list with private albums in the late nineties and with songs like Zara Ahista and Ghungroo Toot Gaye.

Youngster’s take

It might certainly not be the golden age of this particular form of music, but ghazals still continue to connect with a section of the young audience. Till there are any significant and memorable additions, the old ones continue to circulate.

Shares Surdeep Sharma, assistant professor, Government College, “Most of us associate ghazals to late maestro Jagjit Singh. His Hoshwalaon Ko Khabar Kya was a rage during my college days. Apart from Hothon se Chulo Tum and Chithi Na Koi Sandesh are my favourite and soul stirring.”

The only form of music to have perhaps escaped the remix destruction and still survived! Shares Atul Sood, chemical engineering student, Panjab University, “In fact, ghazals sound great in purer form. The more rustic they are and devoid electronica and fusion, the better they sound.”

His personal favourites include Dekh Ke Tum Ko by Jagjit Singh and Koi Fariyad from the movie Tum Bin.” The songs still find a way to reach music lovers and remain etched there.

Fit & fine

FnY Studio with branches in Chandigarh and Panchkula has been recently awarded as The Most Promising Yoga Studio in North India under the Business & Service Excellence Awards 2013.

The award was given by Krishnamachari Srikkanth, former captain of the Indian cricket team. The award was received by fitness expert Anil Juneja, who is based in Chandigarh. He is a dynamic, young yoga and fitness expert whose zest is to redefine postures of yoga. He experiments by mixing traditional yoga with aerobics and was the first to introduce the concept of Power Yoga here.

He was also the first to start the concept of yoga studios in Tricity and plans to expand to further cities. He has learnt yoga from reputed universities and has been actively involved in the wellness space for over a decade now. He conducts workshops at renowned corporate houses like Swaraj, Mahindra & Mahindra, Torque Pharma, Packet Video India Pvt. Ltd. and Quark software Inc.

— TNS

Master Chef
Strawberry mousse on praline basket
Ajay Mathur

For four portions

Method

  • Caramelise sugar and add almond to it. Cook for few minutes. Slightly cool and roll into round basket.
  • Make sabayon with egg yolk and sugar. Whip the cream. Add the sabayon to it.
  • Melt white chocolate. Tightly wrap the cup with plastic film and then pour chocolate and cool it.
  • Take it out when set.
  • Pour the mixture of mousse into a cup.
  • Garnish with fresh strawberry and praline basket filled with ice cream.

(Mathur is a culinary expert)

Star value
Jasmine Singh

The new Range Rover Vogue is one beauty you would like to keep by
your side till eternity

We wouldn't know what rapport did the French author Francoise Sagan shared with his cars, but the lady sure had something in her mind when she wrote, "Money may not buy happiness, but I'd rather cry in a Jaguar than on a bus! Did it you smile?

Just as you enter Taj Chandigrah, towards the left, shinning under the sun that has returned after a long break she stands tall. She is like a star who knows her value. She knows no matter what you will be pulled towards her beauty. We bet you are. She represents the fourth generation, and time has only engineered and instilled 'class' in it. Jaguar Land Rover's new sports utility vehicle Range Rover Vogue brought to Chandigarh by Dada Motors will leave you in awe. As you get up close and personal with the beauty you realise why she is worth the Rs 1.80 crore (ex showroom) price tag.

The man standing next to him, Rishi Dada, managing director Dada Motors, is definitely under a spell. "The new Range Rover Vogue has a unique command driving position that places the driver in the elevated, upright seating position--almost 90mm higher than other premium SUVs," he shares. Rishi takes us around what he calls super luxury personified machine.

He opens the doors exposing her completely. Up graded seating with multi-mode massage and an executive class rear seating package. "We spend almost 33 per cent of our day driving. But you hop into this machine, you will feel fresh," Rishi smiles.

Here, in Range Rover Vogue everything happens with a touch (that's how the money is also paid. Touch of your signature on the cheque book!). A touch for the LED ambient lighting, with the ability to change the colour scheme to suit the drivers mood, a single touch for the climate control and a touch for the soft door close with power latching.

A machine like this, we bet you wouldn't want to take her out on a lone drive, in the hills, probably put her off the road taking her though a small village with no tarmac.

In that case, Range Rover Vogue has got something for you--adaptive cruise control. She knows when to switch mode if she hits the rocks or cuts through the hills! Are you sweating from the humongous amenities she is offering? There she goes again, she can heat or cool the wood and leather steering as you want it. And with a 5.0 lt 510 PS LR-V8 supercharged petrol engine and 4.4 lt 339 PS SD V8 diesel engine, this machine can be taken out for a long, refreshing drive.

"See, it has all the styling genes of super luxury and comfort. And if you love to keep her company, you can book and place orders," adds Rishi who celebrates the completion of the 50th year of the automobile marvel Dada Motors started by his father Suraj Dada.

Pair pressure

Many actors will be paired together for the first time in 2013. Some are old, some are new but are exciting nevertheless

Priyanka Chopra with Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor

Ranveer always wanted to work with her and Arjun Kapoor is just plain lucky to be working with Priyanka Chopra at such an early stage in his career. They were fighting over Anushka Sharma in real-life and now they will fight over PC in Ali Abbas Zafar's Gunday.

Saif Ali Khan and Sonakshi Sinha

Saif Ali Khan is doing Bullet Raja directed by Tigmansha Dhulia and it looks like an in-your-face commercial movie. It is the first time that Sonakshi is acting with a relatively younger hero who is not exactly in the 100-crore mindless blockbuster club. This movie seems interesting.

Ileana D'cruz and Shahid Kapoor

They both look cute together and come across as very fresh. They can act well too. They are paired in Phata Poster Nikla Hero directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and they get along like a house on fire. We wonder if they will officially date.

Sonam Kapoor and Ayushmann Khurrana

Ayushmann Khurrana is an incredible actor and Sonam Kapoor can be a decent actress especially if she has a fun role. She plays a rich brat who has to stand up for her poor boyfriend against her father Rishi Kapoor in an untitled YRF rom-com directed by Nupur Asthana.

Parineeti Chopra and Ali Zafar

Shaad Ali is back in the movie-making business with Kill Dil. The movie stars Parineeti Chopra with Ali Zafar and Ranveer Singh. Ali and Parineeti will be engaging to watch. Parineeti and Ranveer have worked together before in Ladies Vs. Ricky Bahl.

Karachi diary

Actress Juhi Chawla, who was skeptical about visiting Pakistan, recently returned to Mumbai after meeting her relatives in Karachi. The actress had a memorable trip.

"Just landed ...back in mumbai from karachi ...to be honest I was wary of going to Pakistan...but it turned out a nice memorable trip .. Two worlds co-exist in karachi ... A normal city with traffic, bustling markets and malls... And quite another on the outskirts ...." she tweeted.

"It was a private .. Short .. Pleasant stay .. Loved being with my cousins and nieces .. We had an armed security at all times that we left the house... Imp People have them there .. A reminder of the undercurrent of violence ..." she added.

Juhi was surprised to find many Bollywood lovers there. "Pakistani people enjoy Hindi movies… They ve watched them allllll!! And were so pleasantly surprised and happy to see me there ...As I said my goodbyes .. The cook says Salmanbhai ko Mera salaam kehna.. The helper says please bring Shahrukh here ..the maid enquires. Will you be meeting Aamir?? ... I couldn't help but laugh .... They were so sweet," she added further.

She also attended a wedding ceremony where a lot of gathered around her to catch a glimpse of her.

Setback for Shahid

Shahid Kapoor has just had a double setback with two replacements in his forthcoming starrers.

Firstly, it has come to light that Shahid has been replaced by Imran Khan who will now play the lead role in the sequel of Vishal Bhardwaj’s Kaminey.

Trade circles say that of late, Bhardwaj has been praising Imran a lot. An insider also says that the director went on to compare Imran with other actors he has worked with in the past, including Shahid and Saif Ali Khan.

Secondly, Shahid has been put to a loss by television actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Earlier, the TV actor was in the news for replacing Shahid in Maneesh Sharma's film. But that’s not the case here. There was a tiff between the actor and director.

A source informs that the parting between the two was amicable because the producer understood the actor's predicament. They have even promised him another film next year when he is relatively free to accommodate them.

Love struck

Harman Baweja's heart was broken by Priyanka Chopra when she moved on to Shahid Kapoor. Bipasha Basu's heart was broken by John Abraham. Since the break-up that happened two years ago, she has been linked with Shahid Kapoor, Rana Daggubatti and a few others but nothing serious has blossomed. And it seems she has finally found a serious partner in Harman Baweja.

Bipasha is 34 and Harman is 33. She celebrated her birthday in Goa with her close friends and Harman was included in the group. Pictures of them together show them chilling in the pool together with friends and they also danced the night away to romantic music together.

Harman and Bips first grabbed the headlines when they arrived at Jackky Bhagnani's party together. Bipasha had announced she was celebrating her birthday with close friends and Harman is already part of her circle.

Harman posted a picture of her as his display picture and posted "Happy Happy" as his status. He wants the whole world to know that he has finally found love again! We wish them the best!

Astro turf
P Khurrana

ARIES: Problems are bound to arise at home. A neighbour will be cause of worry. A disagreement with your partner won’t be resolved for a few days, so don’t try to push your point. Tarot message: Try to avoid serious discussions with loved ones.

Lucky colour: Aqua-blue.

Magic number: 39

TAURUS: Early hours can see you encountering some difficulties. Your budget goes topsy-turvy. You will give some of your time to work in the hospitals or charitable institutions; talking to the less fortunate ones. Tarot message: Seek advice, but don’t feel you have to stick to it. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 48

GEMINI: Home and family affairs will be most enjoyable. You will not be able to get teamwork going. Short trips can cause minor annoyances. Personal plans will be opposed by friends and will be much harder to carry out. Tarot message: A shopping spree can upset your budget. Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 36

CANCER: You are on the crest of a lucky wave. The married will be able to see more of each other. Do not sign new agreements. It is a hectic day for businessmen. Tarot message: Make the best of a bad situation by being polite and understanding.

Lucky colour: Deep-red.

Magic number: 59 

LEO: Use your own judgment while dealing with important issues. Do not demonstrate your anger to anybody. Enjoy an evening with your friends. A restless attitude is likely to prevail.

Tarot message: Spend time on fitness routines. Lucky colour: Yellow.

Magic number: 29

VIRGO: Make your choices wisely today. Family politics or the power struggles in shared living quarters can intensify. Talking about the issues with friends won’t make any differences to your situation. Listen to your own self. Tarot message: Renew energy in the relationship. Lucky colour: Forest-green.

Magic number: 47

LIBRA: You will feel irritated at work. A new deal will result in monetary gains. Women: control your diet and focus on exercise. Good friends will be a source of entertainment and support. Don’t hesitate to fall back upon them. Tarot message: Adopt a diplomatic approach. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 61

SCORPIO: Youngsters will feel a bit lethargic. You can safely delegate responsibility of work to others. An old friend might turn up out of the blue and take you out to an exciting venue. Tarot message: Beware of making rash moves when angry or upset.

Lucky colour: Saffron.

Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: You are unlikely to have any difficulty in concentrating. Diplomacy and tact are the key words for the day. Your card “The Lovers” is shining its loving light. Tarot message: Keep your eyes and ears open for new and exciting opportunities.

Lucky colour: Peach.

Magic number: 42

CAPRICORN: Students: do not neglect your work. Humanity pays. Keep business activities open. Parents’ health needs attention. A foolish obligation can be dropped. Enjoy a peaceful day at home. Tarot message: Be as charming as possible in all situations.

Lucky colour: Mauve.

Magic number: 25

AQUARIUS: Get into work early because as the day unfolds, everything can become disjointed. An influential person will acknowledge your work and encourage you to take your career further. Tarot message: Stop thinking about yourself.

Lucky colour: Silver-grey.

Magic number: 40

PISCES: No matter what problems might arise, you will achieve success. Job-seekers will have a good day. A business deal is likely to go through and give you a more secure income. Start organising your finances. Tarot message: Take life as it comes. Lucky colour: White.

Magic number: 52

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is January 10...

The year 2013 will usher in luck for you, which will help you to excel professionally and take your love life to a greater height. However, you might have to face some disappointments in domestic life. You will get blamed for the things that you have not done. It will happen due to some misunderstanding among the members of your family. Declining health of the people you love will also give you tensions. If you are already in a love relationship then it is a perfect time to take it to another level. If you are single and looking for a serious love relationship, put in some efforts as you will definitely get success. You are full of creative ideas and will execute all of them at your workplace. The bold initiatives taken by you will impress your seniors and they will praise your work.

Your sources of income will improve. You can go for some sort of investments after considering all the pros and cons. You will be able to save a good amount of money easily. Students can expect better results in their exams.

On the professional front, you should consider not to invest more effort and funds in projects that are showing a decline. If your investments do not indicate the expected returns, then you may consider abandoning the project otherwise there are chances of losing the principal amount.

Some unavoidable circumstances will delay your accomplishing some household chores. Therefore you will have to re-schedule some engagements. You need to keep your eyes wide open and put your strategies right in your career. Otherwise, it will be impossible to avoid big mistakes. Financially, the situation is good and manageable. Friends are more than willing to help; repose faith.

Mood: Sometimes 'pushing' too hard.

Compatible signs: Pisces, Gemini, Leo

Lucky colours: Electric-blue, White

Lucky days: Friday.

Lucky numbers: 11, 15, 18, 30, 38

Hrithik Roshan You share your birthday with Hrithik Roshan (January 10, 1974, Mumbai), who first appeared in films when he was a six-year-old in the 1980's movie Aasha. Subhash Ghai's Yaadein was his first release in 2001. This was followed by Karan Johar's Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. He later received critical acclaim for his performance in Jodhaa Akbar. Besides acting, Roshan made his debut as a singer in Kites, and has also sung in the films Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara as well as Guzaarish.

Chatter box
Past life drama

In this weekend episode of Arjun, he's invited as the honorary guest at a school for his exemplary services to society; from the time he arrives at the school, he notices a prying, spying eye, following him everywhere. Arjun decides to catch the spy and finds an eight-year-old sitting alone in a lab.

When Arjun confronts the boys, he replies in a voice that is barely a whisper—He killed me'. He further speaks as if he was killed by someone in his past life almost nine years ago with specific details of a village and people. Shocked and intrigued by the unusual boy, Arjun decides to investigate to find if there is any truth in the matter. Soon, as he investigates, he learns the details mentioned by the eight-year-old all turning true - a real village called Chopri in Huda district and a Manohar Lal who died nine years ago. What is the mystery behind this case? Is it really a matter of rebirth? If the man in past life was killed, who killed him?

Hands full

Ronit Roy seems to be missing from the small screen. Although he does Adalat on Sony, his absence is felt on television. With lots of cool film offers in hands, he has decided not to overwork himself. He wants to focus on one television show and films in hand for now.

Online trouble

Ashish Kapoor, seen in Sony's Love Marriage Ya Arranged Marriage, is angry as someone has hacked into his Facebook account and turned his status to married. He has clarified that he never had a Facebook account in the first place and though he isn't filing an official complaint, it has irked him to no end.

For love's sake

Abhinav Kohli, who was seen in Colors' Kairi, will soon float a production house. And apparently he has decided to name his production house after his girlfriend Shweta Tiwari's daughter's name. His company is working on two projects, including a television show, and he took this step as he will in the near future marry Shweta.

No tags please!

Deepika Singh aka Sandhya of Diya Aur Baati Hum has acquired the tag of being difficult and aloof on the sets of her hit show. Whispers in the industry are that she is snooty since she became successful, but Deepika is shocked to hear these tags. She feels gossipmongers spread such false rumours for no reason.

ALL LIES: Siddharth Shukla Star tantrums?

Buzz is that Siddharth Shukla, who has become popular after his role as Shiv in the hit show Balika Vadhu, is giving trouble to the production unit of the show. Rumours are that he throws tantrums while shooting, doesn't report on time and takes too much time to get ready. Siddharth rubbishes these rumours. ALL LIES: Siddharth Shukla

 

Amrit consumes poison

Amrit (Adaa Khan) has always been at her scheming best when it comes to outwitting Nimrit (Ankita Sharma) in the show Amrit Manthan on Life OK. But now, tables have turned and Amrit is facing a lot of problems at the hands of the cruel man Rudraksh (Siddharth Vasudev).

She is made to walk on glass at one point of time; is tortured by the man. So what's coming next? Well, Amrit in an attempt to end her life drinks poison, which is meant to kill her in an hour's time.

So is this the only motive behind having poison? The answer is 'No'. The lady also plans to get into the good books of Nimrit and gain her sympathy. Amrit very well knows that the poison will take an hour's time to act on her body and if she is treated within this period of time, there is every chance that she would survive. With this in mind, she drinks the poison and waits for Nimrit to save her.

When Nimrit comes, Amrit tells her that she wants to end her life as she is scared of Rudraksh's cruelty. Nimrit rushes Amrit to the hospital, and also promises her that she will somehow try to save Amrit from Rudraksh. Will Amrit's huge risk pay off?

Will Nimrit and Amrit join hands in avenging Rudraksh? Keeping watching Amrit Manthan to see how Amrit turns the tables and avenges Rudraksh. The show is becoming interesting with every episode.

High Spirits
Oasis fusion
Vineet Mishra

A mollified blend of unique drinking elements.

Instructions
In a cocktail shaker pour Fuel Vodka, pineapple, cranberry juice add some ice cubes. Shake and pour half of it in a wine glass. Now add crushed ice and add 90 ml of Nine Hills wine. Again add some crushed ice and top it with the remaining liquid in the cocktail shaker. Swizzle it and serve chilled. Garnish with pineapple flag. Cocktail tips: Always use fresh fruits for garnish and put some cold water during storage to your garnish to keep it fresh for long hours.

(Mishra is the owner of CocktailJockey.com)

Ingredients

  • 30 ml Fuel Orange
  • 90 ml Nine Hills Sauvignon Blanc
  • 25 ml pineapple juice
  • 40 ml cranberry juice
  • Crushed ice

Raising the bar

Model-turned-Bollywood item girl Yana Gupta will be performing for the finale of TV reality show Bigg Boss 6 inside the house, on January 12. Yana will be doing an act in the cage and will go inside the Bigg Boss house on the final day when the last three contestants are left. "Yana will be performing in a cage hung on a crane and that will go inside the house. She will get one evicted contestant out with herself in the cage. After her performance only the final two contestants will remain in the house," a source said. Also, four popular TV actresses - Rati Pandey, Keerti Nagpure, Pooja Gaur and Rashmi Desai - will be seen performing for the finale.

Presently, six contestants - Niketan Madhok, Urvashi Dholakia, Delnaaz Irani, Rajeev Paul, Sana Khan and Imam Siddique - are vying for the Rs 50 lakh title prize money. PTI





HOME PAGE | Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Opinions |
| Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi |
| Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | E-mail |