|
|
|
|
|
The cast and crew of the movie Saadi Love Story are upbeat about their collective venture and the Punjabi film industry in general…
It's an ensemble cast comprising Jimmy Sheirgill, Diljit Dosanjh, Amrinder Gill, Surveen Chawla and Neetu Singh. Saadi Love Story conforms to the norms of the box-office today and has everything else going for it; a romantic comedy, high on entertainment with a blend of drama and Punjabi cinema. While it's too early to appreciate the product, the makers, meanwhile, revel in the expectations. "It's the only movie to be releasing with a lot of prints and sixty-one shows in Chandigarh," shares the director Dheeraj Rattan with the cast in tow at Wave Cinemas, Chandigarh. And while they are too apprehensive to be discussing the budget, they are more than forthcoming with the film prior to its release.
Pure entertainment Almost a veteran in the industry, Jimmy Sheirgill wishes a year full of happiness and promises an experience full on entertainment in the same breath. "A Sat Sri Akal and a Happy New Year to all of you; about this film I'd like to say one thing — it is full-on entertainment; a movie that you can watch with children and the elderly alike." It's only a matter of time when the conversation graduates from the film in question to the future of the industry. "We need at least two to three years for the industry to mature before we start taking risks and get experimental with cinema." Till that happens, he's happy to be just, "entertaining the audience and not making documentaries." Learning curve Only two films old, Neetu Singh, already sees a room of improvement, apart from the room for it! "I think I could have looked better in my previous film. But anybody, who has seen me then and now, will be able to make out a lot of changes. You learn with each film." She adds, "In this film I play Gurleen, an aspiring fashion designer. She's a very lively girl." Growth strategy With two more upcoming Punjabi movies, a Tamil film, a Bollywood project with Vikram Bhatt and Anurag Kashyap, her kitty's more than three bagsful! "I have Singh Vs Kaur, lined up next month with Gippy Grewal. That's the first film that'll have South-style action and will be released in every regional language." She adds, "The growth in Punjabi cinema is now in terms of phases but it is progressing with each film." Hands full Shuttling between shows and the film, travelling at the weekends and acting on the weekdays, Amrinder Gill managed just about everything. "When I'll finally see the movie, I might not even recall half the things." While singing remains his first love, acting, though behind, is not far behind. "I always wanted to be an actor too." Nudge him on the dream role and among the "so many at different points of time", one tops the list. "I'd love to re-do a serious kind of role. Something what Gurdaas Mann did in Shaheed E Mohabbat." In the movie, he plays an aspiring fashion photographer. Take two The romantic comedy revolves around a central character Preeti, a die-hard romantic waiting for a prince charming, a white horse, a shining armour et al. As a director, for Dheeraj Rattan, carrying forward from Jatt and Juliet was never a tricky affair. "We don't get bogged down by expectations. We only focus on the project at hand and its creative aspects. If you start thinking of returns and the possibility of a hit, one can never make a film." He adds, "The film has been shot in Chandigarh and its outskirts." And they are already gearing up for a sequel with Saadi Lovely Story! "That'll happen only once this movie is appreciated." Till then! manpriya@tribunemail.com
|
|
Strong voice, stronger intent
'To make the earth a better place' is an attitude that Mallika Sarabhai inherited in her genes. And striving for it she is, day in and day out. In Chandigarh on Thursday, Mallika inspired hordes of women and men as much from her act as her interaction with the audience.
Born to classical dancer Mrinalini Sarabhai and renowned space scientist Vikram Sarabhai, Mallika has evolved her own language as an activist, actor, choreographer, dancer, publisher and writer. "Amma and Appa were never just a dancer or a scientist. He put satellites into space so that farmers could do better; he introduced television so that even in villages where there is no teacher there is some device to help people learn. Same was with Amma; in their own languages they were making a change. And, that's what I am doing and so is my brother. He is an environmentalist and I call myself a communicator." A Kuchipudi and Bharatnatyam dancer, Mallika has long been working on issues close to her heart. Women empowerment is one among them. In fact, her Sita's Daughters is shown to judges as well as police personnel for gender sensitisation. The recent scenario makes her hopeful that finally we are coming out the deep slumber and ready to question what has for long been accepted. It will take men as well as women, if we are really looking forward to a change, believes Mallika. It will take time before we gender sensitise our all-eloquent police officers, politician as well as religious leaders, she warns and wants women to brace themselves with martial arts in the meantime: "My daughter, who is studying abroad carries mace, which is like chilly powder, all the time. That is normal behaviour; time to opt for it here too." "I am not going to keep silent and avoid atrocities. It's time to act. I will shout for help, keep my eyes open to sense danger and definitely help when need be," she adds emphatically. Mallika has picked up issues that we as a society have always shied away from. And, here's where her management skills come in handy: "I never studied management to sell soaps. Making the most of available resources is what it is all about. To keep afloat a group that's against the government is where I use all that I have learnt," says Mallika, who after a long day unwinds in the company of her eight dogs. She rues that her hometown Ahmedabad is no longer as safe as it was in her growing up years. And she is out to change it. "I sincerely hope that we see a country where everyone can walk free — be it a man or a woman," she signs off to a packed audience. Amen! mona@tribunemail.com
|
|
Courting theatre
Mona
The director recalls as he gets ready for the show at the ongoing Theatre For Theatre Winter National Festival on Thursday, "People laughed at us and ridiculed at that point of time. They said the play would not even have four shows and 400...and a repeat at that." The play has travelled far and wide over the last decade. A play that has been done by every known playwright worth his mettle, how does Sudesh see his version? "Every director has dealt with this in his or her manner. In mine, it's Ram Chander who is the hero. It's generally the rather silent heroes who stand tall in my works," says Sudesh. Three decades and more in theatre and Sudesh is a content man, "At the turn of the century, there was no theatre festival here. Chandigarh was called a modern city of stones. I am glad today there are signs of culture seeping in." TFT itself has four festivals a year now and numerous others. What Sudesh hails is that theatre is becoming popular among youth. Schools have their own productions, and summer theatre workshops are getting popular. What this director is aiming next is taking Chandigarh plays to other states. "See theatre is the backbone of any film industry. If we have theatre flourishing, then it will pave way for further avenues," says Sudesh who has been happy with his actors Parvesh Kumar Sethi and Vansh Bhardwaj who have associated with this play for long!
|
||
|
Diamond deal
Tanishq jewellery brand has announced an exciting offer on its wide range diamond jewellery. Up to February 28, customers can avail a discount up to 20 per cent on all diamond jewellery at any Tanishq store across the country.
Further, there is a flat 20 per cent off on purchase of single diamond jewellery worth Rs 2 lakhs and above. Tanishq offers a fine blend of traditional and modern jewellery options. The diamond collection ranges from daily and work wear to exquisite jewellery, in different patterns and contemporary designs. —TNS
|
||
|
Saving option
TTK Prestige has come up with its annual New Year's promotion the Super Saver Offer that is on till February 28. The offer promises a host of deals on the entire range of Prestige products. Consumers can avail the following exciting discount offers, exchange offers and free products offer.
One can buy a induction based aluminium deluxe pressure cooker and get a Omega deluxe tawa worth Rs 870 free, buy a stylo mixer grinder and get a 5 litre pressure cooker, if you are the idli, dosa fan then buy a wet grinder and get an aluminium pressure cooker worth Rs 2040 free, buy a omega deluxe kadai for Rs1190 and get a fry pan worth Rs 830 free.
—TNS
|
||
|
Get glowing
Dr Sukhdeep Kaur
Faithfully wear broad spectrum (UVA and UVB block) sunscreen every day-This year lay off the excuses; you'll be pleased with the results--wrinkle and spot-free skin! Sunscreen is an anti-ageing product recommended by dermatologists because it prevents sun damage that leads to fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations. Wash off your makeup at night. Failing to wash your face at night can lead to clogged pores. Add an anti-ageing product to your regimen. If you're looking for something to reduce fine lines and wrinkles that have already appeared, to lighten dark spots or to create a smoother texture, look for products with nutrient-rich ingredients such as antioxidants, retinol and alpha or beta-hydroxy acids. Quit popping zits (pimples)! Zits on your face can be...well, ugly. We've all been victims of the detrimental quick fix, but it's got to stop. Popping pimples increases the risk of scarring while inhibiting the healing. Wash your makeup brushes and ditch old makeup. Makeup brushes can host bacteria and dirt which may cause acne. Drink more water. If you want suppler, hydrated skin, moisturise it by taking a sip from your water bottle throughout the day. Hands are often neglected, yet they're one of the first things we notice about someone. Invest in a good hand cream and resolve to wear rubber gloves when you are washing! Don’t forget about your lips. Keep lips from getting dry and chapped this winter. Use a lip balm that doesn’t contain peppermint, essential oils or petroleum, as both can actually dry out lips. Be sure to moisturise your lips during evening. Keep up with healthy habits in the New Year – late nights, smoking, excessive alcohol, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise will all take a huge toll on your skin! Pamper your skin. You work hard and so does your skin. On a daily basis your skin comes in contact with environmental stresses such as the sun and pollution which can lead to dryness among other skin problems. Take some time to pamper yourself. you deserve it. (Dr Kaur is a Chandigarh-based dermatologist)
|
||
|
Casual charm
Your sense of style is… Comfort is the prime concern. I like to be laidback about things and still be trendy. Latest addition in the wardrobe… It’s a Burberry scarf with the characteristic Burberry checks. Brand freak or street smart? It’s always better to wear branded stuff, because they are of better quality. Choose one--sporty, glamorous or chic? Well, it would have to be chic. Your style icon? Brad Pitt and John Abraham. I like the masculine touch in their dressing sense, plus they carry off whatever they wear. Who’s the worst dressed celebrity around? Rakhi Sawant. She is loud and so is her styling. Moreover, a lot of times, she dresses up inappropriately for the occasion. One fashion trend you don’t understand… Face piercing because it doesn’t make sense. Neither is it trendy nor comfortable. Your take on accessories… For me, accessories mean two things-- a watch and glares. If used appropriately, they are like the icing on the cake. One thing that boosts your confidence… A good strong cologne. It gives you confidence like nothing else. You would love to be dressed up by? Roberto Cavalli. He’s the most stylish designer and the most famous one too. (As told to Manpriya Singh) (If you think you too fit the profile, get in touch with us at lifestyletribune@gmail.com We’ll sift the best from the rest)
|
||
|
Mega prize
The Merry Shopping Festival at the upscale DLF City centre mall located in Chandigarh's IT Park, ended with giving away' of a Rs 5.7 lakhs powerful Harley-Davidson Super Low Bike to Panchkula resident Radhika
Aggarwal.
Under Merry Shopping Festival, the offer was that on a purchase of Rs.7000 or above from the mall, a shopper becomes eligible for the coveted mega lucky draw and to win a Harley-Davidson Super Low Bike. The winner was ecstatic on getting the expensive gift. "I was eagerly waiting for the draw to take place. This is a dream come true for me and my family", said the proud owner of the Harley-Davidson SuperLow bike. Another highlight of this year's festival was the exquisite décor based on the theme colours of purple and silver that blend well with Christmas and New Year's fervour.—TNS
|
||
|
SRK parts ways with his PR
The publicist has a few more high-profile Bollywood celebrities as her clients, so she could not leave them and attend only to SRK. Now, he has some young girls from his production company maintaining his PR profile.
|
||
|
Parineeti’s glam avatar
diva look: Parineeti Chopra
Glimpse of Seven Sisters
Soha Ali Khan, Jiah Khan, Mugdha Godse, and Huma Qureshi will walk the ramp for a fashion show showcasing the style and culture of North-Eastern India and the actresses have learnt a lot about the states and their culture.
|
||
|
Mama’s wish
Randeep replaces Imran
The first look of Murder 3 is out. The film stars Randeep Hooda, Aditi Rao Hydari and Pakistani actress Sara Loren in lead roles. There is a new version of Bheege Hoth Tere sung by Randeep. This one does not star Emraan
Hashmi.
Hope is alive
She is looking forward to Zilla Ghaziabad, which also stars Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi.
|
||
|
How Saif keeps fit
One piece of bread I have learnt to eat one piece of bread and relish it completely. Earlier, I used to drink happily and eat many rotis but now I have practically quit drinking and smoking. The irony of life is that in your 20s, you drink like a fish and hand out drinks and then in your 40s, you hand out diets! Eating right makes you feel happy and positive and light and sometimes you do not know what to do with it! Working out You look at John Abraham and he is such an inspiration in fitness. I had to look good and get fit for Race 2 because I had to look good opposite John Abraham. He inspired us all to get in shape. We both have a hand-to-hand combat in the movie. People are saying John is the villain but everyone in the movie is grey and John has a really cool role in it. John, Anil Kapoor and I spent a lot of time working out together during the making of the film. We used to socialise and go for dinners as well with the cast and crew but also worked out very hard because we had to look good on screen. I remember we were working hard in Turkey and then we came back to Mumbai. Anil felt very bad about eating heavy Punjabi food at his place like kaali dal and rotis. It is almost suicidal to work out hard and then eat all that. I have been to Anil's house and I know they eat very well. Anil is so inspiring. He is older than all of us and still incredibly fit and youthful.
|
||
|
Arjun uncut
Criticism: good, bad & ugly It depends on who is criticising you. Sometimes it could indeed help you better yourself. At the end of the day, criticism is an opinion of a person. If it has value, you should be open enough to absorb it. However, criticism can also be used as a weapon against you to destroy you. In such cases, it’s better to discard them. Criticism taken too seriously can destroy you. Chitrangda as co-star She was a little apprehensive and confused about the film when she joined because Sudhir and I had spent more time on the script than her. But once we started hanging out and working on the movie, she was amazing! She is sweet and friendly, stunning, and a talented actress. She has presence. Choosing the right films I choose films now and I am grateful that I am in a position to do so. I always pick films thinking that ‘will I go and see the movie as an audience?’ If I feel I would, I do the film. The highpoint of my career has been winning the National Award and doing films like Rock On, Om Shanti Om, and Ra.One, to name a few. The low phase was between 2001 and 2005. Sudhir Mishra, the director He is a very different director and does not have a fixed mindset. He goes with the vision of the movie and is open to changes. He is actor-friendly. Inkaar could have been a sleazy movie but he has handled it with dignity. And he is an interesting person too. He has long grey hair, so tall and does yoga. Growth curve Every year, I try to be more honest with myself. I am happy with the way my career has shaped up and all the fame and fortune it has provided for me and my family. I am getting better and better each
year as an actor because I am committed to that. Other people can comment on how far I have come, better than me.
|
||
|
Amrita disappointed!
To add to her loss, the promo was unveiled by none other than the legendary Amithabh Bachchan. “Amrita
is so busy that she did not manage to get even a day off to fly to
Mumbai. She was shooting a very important scene for Singh Saheb on a
railway platform and taking a day off by holding up the unit and taking
permissions again for the same location would have been quite a task for
the crew of the film. Hence, Amrita decided to give it a skip as much as
she would have loved to be a part of it. The entire team of Jolly LLB is
sad more than upset as they would have Amrita’s plight and have
agreed to comply with it,” informs a source from the unit. Amrita
says, “Although ‘thank you’ seems fairly insufficient to
acknowledge Bachchan sir's generous gesture of doing us the honors by
unveiling our promo of Jolly LLB, we are truly in debt of his kindness
and a heartfelt thank you to him." The film also stars Arshad Warsi
and Boman Irani.
|
||
|
Europe tour
Couple time: Rani Mukerji
|
||
|
Aamir in awe of Big B
After a tumultuous journey thus far, superstar Amitabh Bachchan, politico-extraordinaire Narendra Modi and Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar continue to battle it out as the top three contenders for India's Prime Icon. The Shahenshah of Hindi cinema, Amitabh Bachchan and the reigning Khan of Bollywood, Aamir Khan, have always admired each other's personalities, work ethics and ability to be an all-rounder. Big B has shown great appreciation towards Aamir's work and his mannerisms.
|
||
|
New release
Producer: Vijay Singh Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola has a new pair, Imran Khan and Anushka Sharma, and it is going to be one of the many highlights of this comedy film. Imran has a new look with a thick moustache and a beard. Pankaj Kapoor plays an important character. MKBKM has been beautifully shot in Rajkot, Gujarat and a village on the outskirts of Chandigarh. Pankaj Kapoor, who is a teetotaler, plays an alcoholic. Anushka Sharma will be seen wearing an eclectic mix of outfits, including ghagra cholis, skirts and ponchos designed by costume designer Payal Saluja. Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola is directed by director of The Blue Umbrella and Maqbool fame Vishal Bhardwaj. Going by the promos MKBKM is all set to take Vishal Bhardwaj's genre forward in a big way. |
||
|
Astro Turf
ARIES: Shopkeepers will find the day quite hectic. Actors are feeling very positive and optimistic. An intense discussion with your partner early on can play on your mind all day long.
Tarot message: Well-wishers will lend sound advice. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 30
TAURUS: Do not worry; discuss your plans with loved ones. In the evening, children will be a source of happiness and joy. A partnership might be in the pipeline and looks set for success. Tarot message: Take limited risks; don't jeopardise your long-term capital.
Lucky colour: Forest-green. Magic number: 57 GEMINI: Property deal gets concluded. Domestic issues come up for urgent consideration. Have no worries; your work is well under control. Youngsters may have differences with their parents.
Tarot message: Health of an elderly member at home will need looking after. Lucky colour: Deep-crimson.
Magic number: 54 CANCER: Romantic life takes an upswing. It is a good day to try your luck in speculative deals. The employed will be burdened with additional responsibility without incentive. Prioritise your plans and obligations. Tarot message: Leave things open-ended for best results.
Lucky colour: Peach. Magic number: 33 LEO: Pay heed to wise counsel. Do not intervene in the dispute of others. Housewives: stick to routine activities. Those looking for a job will receive a suitable offer.
Tarot message: You need to be creative if you want to retain grip over your business.
Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 59 VIRGO: Your card The Chariot brings a busy day ahead. Please keep a balance between work and rest. You should be careful about your own health and well-being of your parents. Tarot message: Wait a while; everything will get sorted out on its own. Lucky colour: Saffron.
Magic number: 47
LIBRA: A hidden relationship proves a headache. Indecision can be crippling. Set aside time to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings, even if it is just half-an-hour. It will allow you to understand your inner motives. Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it. Lucky colour: Black.
Magic number: 37 SCORPIO: Today most of your time and attention should be on your personal life. Arguments with your spouse can become serious. Influential people will not be helpful. Avoid speculation.
Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others. Lucky colour: Golden.
Magic number: 25 SAGITTARIUS: A real estate deal should be left alone for the time being. It is a cheerful morning for sportsmen. You will find new opportunities opening up for you. Maintain a low profile at a party.
Tarot message: Over-optimism can lead to mistakes. Lucky colour: Royal-blue.
Magic number: 27 CAPRICORN: Your personal plans will meet with stiff opposition. Your reputation can be at stake; act impartially to avoid any pitfalls of guilt. Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation if you make investments in property.
Lucky colour: Purple. Magic number: 63 AQUARIUS: Money-wise, the day is slow. Friends may lose your confidence. Let your energy be turned towards artistic work. Women: avoid impulse buying. Group activities are likely to be fruitful. Tarot message: Avoid gossip session at the workplace.
Lucky colour: Silver. Magic number: 26 PISCES: Go all out to improve your position at work. If you are relaxing at home, visit a local market and enjoy the sights. Start a journal or record this personal journey of self-discovery. Tarot message: This is not a bad time to open up new, lucrative doors. Lucky colour: Golden-brown.
Magic number: 54
|
|
| 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 | |
Taking the play Court Martial to its 400th show is a milestone in more ways than one. When conceived in the year 1999, director Sudesh Sharma had a dream. A dream to connect the audience to theatre as well as to make theatre viable in this part of the country.
This New Year take 10 new resolutions for a youthful, glowing skin ....!
Every person has a sense of style in his own right. Yet, there are only a few who’d attract the second glances, who have the power to make the camera go zoom on them. It could be the tousled hair, it could be the torn jeans. Our this week’s face in the crowd Balli Riar, 25, singer and actor, likes to make a style statement while at the same time be laid-back and relaxed about it.
Shah Rukh Khan and his PR person or publicist were together for a decade and have recently parted ways amicably because SRK wanted someone to sit in his office and only maintain his account 24X7.
Parineeti Chopra has played a girl-next-door in Ishaqzaade and a tomboy in Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl. She has a very glamourous and diva-like character in Shaad Ali's Kill Dill and will be styled by his wife Aarti Patkar. It is her first glamourous role.
Sharmila Tagore wants daughter Soha Ali Khan, who is an actress, to have a regular job like other people and wants her to become a lawyer. Soha was always academically inclined and Sharmila thought she would not act and do something serious. But that is not happening.
Minissha Lamba made a critically acclaimed debut in Yahaan and did a dare-bare act in Kidnap. Her release last year, Joker, flopped.
Saif Ali Khan looks lean and mean in Race 2. He is 42 now and has a great physique. He talks about working out and eating right.
Arjun Rampal is as dishy today as he was when he entered the industry years ago. He is even taken seriously as an actor now, having won the National Award. He is only in his early forties. The stunner talks about his upcoming film Inkaar, co-star Chitrangda Singh and more. One cannot help but notice they set the screen on fire and look incredibly good together.
Amrita Rao, who is currently in Bhopal shooting for a long schedule of Singh Saheb the Great directed by Anil Sharma, is a bit upset about the fact that when the first look of her next film Jolly LLB was unveiled she could not be a part of the ceremony.
Rani Mukerji and Aditya Chopra have gone to Europe on a vacation. Rani has been by Adi's side like a rock. Aditya has a busy year planned for YRF and has to take care of everything since Yash Chopra is no more. Sources say they may have already secretly tied the knot.
He is a man whose big heart and affectionate ways have warmed the entire nation to his inimitable style. His stardom transcends borders and the fan frenzy he generates is unmatchable. Such is Mr Bachchan's aura that even a certain Mr Perfectionist, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, admits to being in awe of him. This week on Big CBS Prime's India's Prime Icon, a show where India chooses its true icons, the top three icons will be revealed.
