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Young director Ifra Kak, whose play Do Kauri Ka Khel was staged in Chandigarh, has the gift of legacy and she is transforming every bit of it to her advantage…
Imbibing impressions as a child accompanying her father to rehearsals, young Ifra is out to chart new territories today. Making the best use of theatre to heal the less privileged sections of the society is what this twenty-six-old director is up to.
As the young team rehearsed the play Do Kauri Ka Khel on Friday, their director was off to Kerala to attend the International Theatre Festival. Mushtaq Kak, the proud father and a veteran theatre actor-director helmed the affairs, but was clear enough to say, "It is totally Ifra's play." Do Kauri Ka Khel is the result of forty-day-intensive workshop with the youth from the far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir. "Since the group was young, I did not try a serious play; a comedy they were able to relate to better," says Ifra. The play based on Bertolt Brecht's The Three Penny Opera has received a very dynamic treatment. There are five popular songs — Hindi, Tamil and Telugu — to introduce the characters, including Chinta ta ta chita-chita from Rowdy Rathore. Art knows no boundaries and mediums converge in this particular play. "But the essence of Brecht's alienation certainly comes alive. In fact, songs from other languages break the association that actors and audiences have formed, only to be rebuild post the songs," she elaborates. Ifra is not for usual theatre, but for making it useful to the society. In fact, her first major project was with prisoners in Kot Bhalwal Jail, Jammu. "It was a challenge, pretty intimidating," recalls Ifra. The lone woman amongst forty-odd prisoners from countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Ifra held her front. She particularly remembers this young prisoner accused of a cold-blooded murder. "He was adamant in the beginning, he would sit and sulk. I used theatrical exercises to help him and others open up," says Ifra. And, the result was Self Stories. The young director has also worked with prostitutes in Hyderabad and intends to do a production with half-widows of J&K. "Kashmir is known either for its beauty or unrest. Not much has been talked about women who have suffered the most- the mother, wives or daughters, who do not know where the men of the family are." Ifra is keen, but not finding enough women to work with. Change she wants to bring along through theatre and is grateful to her father as well as teachers for equipping her with the medium. There is no aim, just hardwork and desire to help. "I am a learner still," says this first woman director from Jammu. mona@tribunemail.com
Stage set
Do Kauri Ka Khel is a total masala play, says the young team. For lead actor Saurabh Verma, it's the first try at comedy. "I have done intense, emotional roles so far. Had it not been for the support of our director, I don't think I could have attempted something like this on stage." For Delight Sara William, who plays Manmohini, the real challenge was to speak Bhojpuri. "It has been testing at times, but also incredible fun," they chorus.
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The Delhi gang rape incident has rocked the country. Anoop Soni, anchor of the show Crime Patrol that has come up with an episode on the same, believes now is the time to act and not just deliberate
Last few days have been very hectic for Anoop Soni. The project he has been working upon is not just physically grueling, but also taking a toll on him mentally. And then at the end of the day, to make matters worse, he is even unable to unwind himself. He is left introspecting as to what is wrong with our society, what makes us so indifferent towards the problems of others.
"Such has been the impact of shooting a dramatised version of Delhi Gangrape case," says Anoop Soni, anchor of Crime Patrol, who admits that this has been the toughest episode of the show so far. The more he got to know about the facts of the gory crime, the more it perturbed him and the more he thought about the morally corrupt society of ours. The team of Crime Patrol extensively researched details about the whole case before deciding to go ahead with the shoot. They wanted to ensure that the dramatised version doesn’t look dramatic. It would have trivialised the whole issue. Anoop finds it ironical that a ‘superpower’ to be is still struggling with as basic an issue as security of women and equality. As much as he has been pained by the unfortunate incident, equally disappointed he is by the reactions of people. "At the press conferences conducted to promote the show, there were people who tried to justify the whole act by quoting examples of item songs and how Bollywood has objectified women," Anoop rues. But that is how some of those in responsible positions have also reacted like. “They say women shouldn’t go out late at night. Why don’t they make an effort to tame men inside the houses after sunset? After all, it’s them who are in the wrong in the first place.” The unsympathetic questions and arguments made him realise that change in the perspective of the society is far more important that coming up with stricter laws to deal with such crimes and criminals. Stringent laws and punishments, he says, will create a fear in people's mind against committing such crimes but till the society isn't sensitised, such incidents can't be overruled. "We all need to be more responsible. Attending a candle-light protest is been-there-done-that job; now is the time to take concrete steps, which put a full-stop on such incidents once and for all." He feels that the fast track cases meant to punish the culprits of rape victims should give the verdict at the earliest. “Nothing can subdue the trauma of a rape victim, but a faster verdict can at least restore faith of people in the judicial system of India. He finds it downright silly when people refer to how women are projected in Bollywood and corraborate it with rape or molestation. "It's not just women who are the victims in our society, senior citizens and children suffer at the hands of those who are powerful. "Bollywood doesn't project them in the way the society actually treats them. We are capable of making very sane choices and nothing can justify a criminal act. The fault lies within us, within our society and what kind of morals we impart to the next generation." He adds that nobody has the right to eve-tease a woman who is walking alone on the road. In the past also, Crime Patrol has depicted cases, which were an eye-opener for people. The show educated them that the victims were one among them and nobody should take his or her safety for granted. "We aim at alerting the society and not making it cynical. It’s is better to be alert than ignorant." Even in the case of the current episode, he says that it's not to instigate people, who are already very angry, but to educate them about the causes that led to it." ashima@tribunemail.com
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Romance off the track
Jasmine Singh
Movie: Saadi Love Story Director: Dheeraj Rattan Star cast: Jimmy Sheirgill, Diljit Dosanjh, Amrinder Gill, Surveen Chawla, Neetu Singh, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Dolly Ahluwalia and Navneet Nishan Rating: ** We all love stories, don't we? Of course, barring those who say I hate Luv Stories. Well, going with the popular tide, love and love stories is the foundation of life as well as cinema. And for Punjabi cinema, which believes in expressing everything loudly — Oh main tainu pyaar kardan han jatti — romance is a 'to-be-handled-with-care' subject. Dheeraj Rattan's Saadi Love Story tries to lift the ball of love carefully, dropping it here and there, almost hitting the floor once a while and then back to lifting it carefully. Thus rolls the season's first Punjabi film…many actors, surprise elements, twists and turns…Saadi Love Story stands to sell love stories of Amrinder Gill, Diljit Dosanjh, Neetu Singh and Surveen Chawla. It is a simple love story that reminds you (just in flashes) of some Bollywood films. Dheeraj, the director, is known to have scripted many hit Punjabi films and here he just had too much to handle. The storyline is sure an interesting one and veteran actors like Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Dolly Ahluwalia, Navneet Nishan just fitted like nuts and bolts. The wacky oldie of Vicky Donor, Dolly Ahluwalia, is at her quirky best. As for Kulbhushan Kharbanda, it will take you a while to recognise the man in grey beard till he screams in his much-admired voice! As the veterans do their bit of not letting the ball of love touch the ground, the younger team tries its best to look all lovey-dovey. Surveen Chawla has worked with Amrinder Gill before, and you can see that. The actress plays the stage manager in Saadi Love Story and sure does make you feel puppy-eyed for once. While she just about managed to take you to the world of love, actress Neetu Singh who made her debut with Dil Tainu Karda Hai Pyar, awakens you. And how, you need to check this out. One more thing, if you think it is the birth right of a Punjabi film to make you laugh, here is a word of advice — don't take things for granted! Saadi Love Story is a love story and this love story isn't making you laugh like crazy! However, one man does manage to sell a smile — Diljit Dosanjh. The Jatt of Jatt & Juliet, other than looking handsome, acts as well. If you have seen and followed Dosanjh in Jatt & Juliet, you wouldn't feel out of place because he is still stuck in the same mode. Not to forget, he is carrying a guitar this time. As for Amrinder Gill, he has worked in many Punjabi films to go wrong anywhere! Saadi Love Story sells love in a manner the Punjabi audiences are not used to. They look for fun and a lot of music. Other than Rubaru, all the other songs fail to ring a bell. The scoring comes from surprise elements, thrown in judiciously in the form of Rannvijay, Jimmy Sheirgill and Neeru Bajwa. This is where the ball bounces back a bit. Dheeraj has written for many successful Bollywood films as well, so one can't miss the 'Bollywoodish' treatment, which for once sure looks different. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Champion calling
Mona
A clear aim coupled with hardwork takes you places, and Yogeshwar Dutt, 30-year-old Olympic medal-winner in wrestling, stands as a true example. Born in village Bhainswal Kalan, Haryana, Yogeshwar found his calling rather early in life and no hurdles could stop him from reaching his goal. At a recent function in Chandigarh people flocked this wrestler to get autographs, clicked pictures with him, and he obliged, till it interfered with his practice schedule! Wrestling is life for him. Being a vegetarian, does it hinder in a game that relies totally on strength? "Elephant is a vegetarian and a lizard otherwise." This five-time gold winner in international competitions, and bronze medal winner in Olympics (2012) as well as Asian Games (2006), shares his success mantra. Aim well I was eight when inspired by Balraj pehalwan in my village, I thought of making a career in wresting. The aim was to win medals for the country and also win respect for the game; guess I have achieved both. Wrestling has found a place in India now. For 2012, I aimed at winning a medal; had I thought of Gold, I would have got that too. And, if I can, so can you! Strong will Determination helps you keep focus. Right after cremating my father's body in 2006, I reported for practice. Those around me had said, 'the best tribute to your father would be a medal' and that I duly earned — a bronze in the Asian Games at Doha. Believe yourself It's paramount to have faith in yourself. When I was injured in 2008, I remained away from wrestling for more than a year. Comeback in 60 kg freestyle category was considered next to impossible. However, lying on bed in a foreign country, all I thought of was making a comeback, which I did! Value people As one gets embroiled in professional activity, people become a non-priority. However, they are your best strength. I am as indebted to my seniors as the whole nation who stood by me! If wrestlers from my region helped me gain ground, Russian coaches polished my craft. Remain disciplined Any field requires discipline. Yes, I have come far from where I started yet there is a long way to go. I never compromise on diet or training schedule. There is no hobby, no passion; wrestling is what I am wedded to for life! Be positive Look at the positives in life —it's going to be a mix of good and bad. Concentrate on the brighter side. In one single day, we can’t come parallel to China or America, but by and by we will, and, most certainly, if other states too follow Haryana governments’ sports policies. Look ahead, look positive, and the world is yours!!! mona@tribunemail.com
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Woodland launches new collection
Woodland has launched its contemporary yet outdoor Woodland Autumn Winter Collection. This collection includes variety of jackets—sleeveless, reversible, detachable, seam-sealed, water repellent, biker, windshield, and lightweight or warm sweatshirts, hoodies or T-shirts. Harkirat Singh, managing director, Woodland Shoes, said that this collection comprises an exhaustive yet differentiating range of sweatshirts made out of thermally insulated and structured fleece. To top it all, the range has a variety of wind-cheaters be it water-proof, wind-proof, and seam sealed with inners making it all the more multi-functional and multi-utility. — TNS
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Add intelligence to your tablet!
Nishtha Shukla Anand
Tablets for kids Tired of watching your kids use your tablet all the time? It’s time you get them their own. These tablets come pre-loaded with educational content and fun games and you can safely allow your kid to use them. They also come with parental controls so you can set kids’ tablets according to your child’s age, ability, sensibility and interests. LeapFrog LeapPad2, VTech InnoTab 2S and Toys“R”Us Tabeo are some of the interesting tablets for kids out there. Movies on the go
Google Play The search engine’s digital store Google Play is a storehouse of good content. Whether you are looking for a good movie or an interesting book, Play has everything. Some of these come free, while some others come at minimal price. I bought John Buchan’s The Thirty-Nine Steps (1915) for Rs 55 and downloaded a Free Movies app for, well free! These offerings from Play make the Google Nexus 10 a good tablet to buy. It gives you easy access to Google Play. Mind Mapping Apps This is a fun and productive facility that few of us use on our tablets. Mind mapping is a simple technique where your app is able to create a network diagram of thoughts, ideas and actions. You can simply keep adding nodes and map the next thing on your mind. Most of these are Android applications and they support simple map creation. If you’re constantly entertained with new ideas, do it with mind mapping apps. They make it easy to manage tasks and plan things with layout formatting. Mindjet, Mindomo and MindMaps Lite are some of the popular apps you could try. File sharing Did you know it’s so easy to share files and content across various devices with the assistance of some good apps? The first thing in that direction would be to store all your data on GoToMyPC, ReaddleDocs, DropBox or SwiFTP. These are cloud applications so that you can store all information on a remote network and access it from any device. Most of these work across platforms and allow you to take control from one remote device. To share files between your tablet and desktop try File Expert, GoAruna and OpenBox. What’s holding you back? It’s time we put our tablets to real good use. (The writer is Chandigarh-based technology expert)
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Low Voltage
Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola is a romantic comedy set in a Haryana village. Vishal Bhardwaj’s film stars Pankaj Kapur, Imran Khan, Anushka Sharma and Shabana Azmi in lead roles. Does Vishal, known for rather serious cinema, strikes a cord with his attempt at comedy? We find out… Disappointing feat The film is an average fare. Maybe because one had high expectations from Vishal Bhardwaj, this average film keeps you occupied but also disappoints towards the end. Sakshi Chauhan, medical student Imran wows Music is the high point of the movie that has its high points and low. The actors deliver, still the punch seems to be missing. Imran certainly wows with his performance. Arnav Singla, entrepreneur Harry all the way A fun film it is with some over-the-top moments. Pankaj Kapur rocks as Harry Mandola and keeps one engaged as he plays different shades. Madhav Kaushik, music student Slow & steady The first half moves rather slow, but interest does build up towards the end. Strangely the story does not hold but individual performances and music keep you entertained. Simran Kaur, management student — As told to Mona
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Chitrangada’s take on Inkaar
Chitrangada Singh is all set for the release of her next film Inkaar. The film deals with sexual harassment at work. She talks about the film, her role, intimate scenes and more… No preaching For starters, there is definitely nothing preaching at all as we are not saying that sexual harassment is this or that. We are not being judgmental at all. It is about people being caught in a certain situation and how they deal with it. Yes, of course, everything that you see in the film is happening around the sexual harassment theme for sure. Love-hate story The story is about these two people who love each other passionately and then hate as well with an equal measure. The woman is pushed to the corner and she has to find her way out. This is how it turns out to be an overtly complicated situation. Background work My preparation for the role started as I spoke to women working in big corporate houses. They had interesting yet shocking incidents to narrate, which helped me define my character. I also spoke to various HR heads, who discussed with the kinds of cases that come to them and their methods of dealing with the same. They revealed how powerful men get away despite being guilty because it is difficult to get proof. There are collateral damages too. Several men at workplaces also get wrongly convicted. Mental block I was nervous while enacting some sequences. I had a mental block. Arjun would keep the atmosphere light on the sets by cracking some jokes in between the shots. However, we still ended up doing several takes. Dirctor’s cut I can't thank him enough for the kind of roles he has offered me. Only someone like Sudhir can pull off a strong subject of sexual harassment. The audience has developed a taste for offbeat plots that have relevance in our social set-up. Inkaar is one such film. Comfort quotient Arjun is a very nice human being. He made me feel very comfortable and that energy translates on screen. He is very professional. This is Arjun's best work that I have seen.
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Pregnant again?
Dangerous caller
All is well
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YRF collaborates with Dibakar
"I respect quality, consistency and true professionalism. YRF stands for that. Given my style of film making and YRF's tremendous presence, reach and experience, this association will merge our respective expertise to create really trendsetting yet entertaining content for a really wide audience. I see tremendous potential in Adi’s concerted plans for getting into co-production agreements with diverse, like-minded filmmakers." The arrangement entails that two of the films will be directed by Dibakar and the third by the writer of the path-breaking Love Sex Aur Dhokha, Kanu Behl.
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The student graduates
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Arshad chooses Ishqiya sequel
date issues: Arshad Warsi
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It works out for Shahid!
The stellar dancer-actor has the best of both worlds--a chiseled physique along with flexibility and grace of a dancer. Shahid is very particular about his work out regime and diet. "Shahid is a vegetarian and thus he has to work out the extra bit to build muscle," says his trainer Abbas Ali. He adds "Along with getting obsessed about his work, Shahid Kapoor, can’t do without a dose of his daily workouts. Even when he is busy shooting or traveling, the young star makes sure to make room for his workouts."
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Sallu talks Bigg!
How does it feel to be the host of Bigg Boss for the third time? How much do you feel this season has been 'a family show'? Why do the contestants gain attention by fighting all the time? I enjoy my work, so it has been wonderful. I think it has been a parivarik show to quite an extent. Sometimes the contestants go overboard since they have no phone, watch etc, so they tend to get irritated. This time has been far better than the previous few seasons in terms of abusive language and violent behaviour. All these things happen, but people can make a big deal of small issues and portray it differently like Imam has done a few times. If people become over-friendly then some people think it's boring, but then similarly if the show gets violent due to circumstances, it is not easy to control individual emotions from outside. Generally, the younger generation loves the fights and the older generation doesn't. A show with a format like this is hard to control and predict. As a host, how do you prepare yourself to deal with different kind of contestants? Well, honestly it's a tough job. I need to make sure I'm neither too sweet nor too harsh to the housemates. Both the extremes can be bad for them. It's a very dicey show because sometimes you need to take someone's case, but their parents as well as the whole nation is also watching so it gets tough to decide when to be stern and when to be polite. You got furious with Imam and in fact took him to task for his remarks on Shahrukh Khan? What was the reason for the sudden outburst? Well, it's nothing personal here. We work really hard in this industry to become who we are today. There is a difference between what is true and what is not! I just stood by the truth. I also did mention the same about Preity Zinta. I wonder why people are not talking about that! You have been very involved in this season particularly. How do you manage to follow the show? I watch every episode of the week. I catch the repeat most of the times as well, since I sleep late. I'm very involved in whatever I do whether it's a show, movie or whatever. What is your message to the housemates as we approach the end of the season? The contestants need to be careful about how they behave. Like on the show, Imam and Sapna are entertaining but if he or she has to find a job, will they be liked by the employers? That's where they need to take a call sometimes. Who is the potential winner of this season according to you? Urvashi, Niketan and Sana are my top three. The votes are the final deciders though. My opinion doesn't matter at all. You shot for two episodes continuously for close to 12 weekends. How have you managed to be so fit, charming and energetic at 47? You also never seem to take a break and go on a vacation. Why? I just have a very strict diet and routine now. All I do is concentrate on work these days. My life is a holiday. I enjoy my work and don't have many complaints. Will you be interested to host another season of Bigg Boss? Hopefully, if I get an offer I would take it but it is farfetched, so let's see.
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TV hosts are underrated
"A TV host's job is highly underrated & often considered replaceable…when actually they're the glue that holds & shapes everything together," she added. Former Comedy Circus host Shruti Seth agreed with her and replied back: "@minimathur sadly only the hosts understand that. No one else seems to."
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A wonderful telly tale
How did you land up in this show? I got a call from Sooraj Barjatya. Without listening to the script, I accepted the offer to act in this family show. It is really a good role and I will deliver my best here. Do you think the viewers will accept you in this role? Kusum is a very challenging character that has grey shades. She is a businesswoman and has an agenda, which could be good or bad. As you know, an actor surely wants to play varied roles in different shows. Although I have played interesting roles in the past, this is by far the most challenging. I hope my fans across India will like it. How do you feel working in Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka Aangaon Hoga? It is a brilliant experience. I am working with the top production house of India. The show has a good TRP and is the most-talked about. What do you say about Tellywood? It is amazing and fascinating. What is your take on life? From hosting events to being a part of many successful television shows, I think life has come a full circle for me. Is bringing Rakshanda Khan a TRP-driven move? I do not think anything is wrong with the present TRP. They are pretty good. The story has to maintain the viewers’ interest to sustain the good position. Among your co-stars, whom do you gel with the most? Pankaj Tiwari and
Shreya Jha. What is difficult about television? To get everything right instantly. — Dharam Pal
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Kuch Toh Log Kahenge completes 300 episodes!
Kuch Toh Log Kahenge, which airs on Sony TV recently completed 300 episodes. The unit had a small cake cutting ceremony on the sets. Kritika Kamra, who plays Dr Nidhi, said, “It’s an achievement. I’m really thankful to all the viewers and my fans. I love them from the bottom of my heart.” Sharad Kelkar, who plays Dr Ashutosh, said, “I am happy, delighted and want to thank everyone associated with the show and of course, viewers.”
Vishal Malhotra, who essays the role of Dr Rangnath, stated, “It’s a great feeling. And the show is also critically acclaimed. I am thankful to God for everything.”
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Astro turf
ARIES: You will gain money from some unexpected source. Deal with paperwork that has been building up. It is time to slow down and recharge your physical as well as spiritual batteries, so don’t push yourself. Tarot message: Involve yourself as much as possible in a new project. Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 52
TAURUS: Postpone work that requires concentration and physical efforts. Stick to your diet or exercise routine today; you need to pay more attention to your health. Go for a walk around a local nature spot. Tarot message: Let things run their course and start afresh later. Lucky colour: Saffron.
Magic number: 50 GEMINI: A neighbour may gossip; but only lend an ear to something interesting and invaluable. You will be destined for better things than you can imagine. An authority figure is on your side, so use the support to your advantage.
Tarot message: Do not judge others too harshly. Lucky colour: Peacock-green. Magic number: 35 CANCER: A restless night’s sleep can result in irritability. A love affair can go wrong. Anxiety might be at an all-time high and one of you might snap; so be careful.
Tarot message: Avoid situations that may turn nasty. Lucky
colour: Mauve. Magic number: 27 LEO: You must not do anything to damage your reputation. It will be difficult to avoid conflict between home life and employment affairs. It will be best to deal with minor issues that do not arouse conflict.
Tarot message: Focus on professional changes. Lucky colour: Black. Magic number: 32 VIRGO: Romance is your forte this morning. Everybody will love you and pretty grievances will disappear. Love on the home front will renew your hopes and wishes. Keep your mind on the business at hand. Tarot message: Try not to lend money to strangers.
Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 57
LIBRA: Confidence and good feelings are in abundance. Trust your own instincts. Don’t listen to other people, as they can have hidden agendas. Plans for a business merger will be successful.
Tarot message: Do not leave things to chance. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 37 SCORPIO: A bright start to the day. New contracts are likely to prove most valuable. Communicating with people at a distance will be extremely helpful. Clear thinking is necessary.
Tarot message: Strive for perfection at work. Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 64 SAGITTARIUS: The day starts on a jarring note. You will not be able to keep to schedule. Do not rush jobs that require careful handling. It will be best to do one thing at a time. Avoid a social gathering.
Tarot message: Take no chances, despite the assurance of people. Lucky
colour: Orange. Magic number: 33 CAPRICORN: Do not project yourself too far into the future. You will have to be stricter with loved ones. Have faith in your own intellectual ability and make choices based on your own needs.
Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting new. Lucky colour: Aqua-blue.
Magic number: 40 AQUARIUS: Important business matters should be handled carefully. Students: fun on the campus foreseen. Your ability to influence and persuade others is strong, but you need to be willing to compromise. Tarot message: Be honest to your desires. Lucky colour: Green.
Magic number: 31 PISCES: A house or office move is unlikely. In public meetings you will feel forceful or aggressive; control your temper. Your workload could weigh you down. If you are one of those people who can’t say no, you are about to learn. Tarot message: Take one step at a time.
Lucky colour: Golden-brown. Magic number: 60
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The year ahead
If your birthday is January 12...
In 2013, you will experience good as well as bad situations simultaneously. Your family and beloved will support you in all conditions. You might go visit religious places such as some renowned temples. You will have an increased faith in the power of the Almighty and leave no chance of thanking him for his blessings. You will be very fortunate in terms of love. Single people might get engaged and lovers will find peace together. This phase of your life can be termed as soothing. You will enjoy good health the whole year. If you are already suffering from some disease, then you might get relieved. Professional challenges are ready to grab you. You are advised to stay alert and give your best. Everything will depend on the endeavours at your workplace. This means that your good work will gain respect and appreciation, but do not take things lightly. If you are expecting a gain from your old property, then your expectations will be fulfilled. You need to take care of your finance as money will keep on slipping out of your hands. Business people will be planning a journey to follow-up work and also sign fresh proposals. Be aware of the limits to which a business relationship can be stretched. Be open to new experiences and remember to thank your host. Joint ventures will make steady progress. This year, try to check impulsive actions and hurried decisions, which can have disastrous consequences in the future. Collaboration is good. Unemployed people should remain pro-active. If you waste time whining, you will sadly discover that no one was listening anyway! It is high time that you realised that life isn't fair, but you should not give up hope. Instead, give up the methods that do not work. If you swallow the bitterness, the dessert will taste sweeter. You will have to cancel your social engagement or other extra-curricular activities due to heavy workload. However, your employer will suitably compensate you. Career issues will be as usual. Do not get upset and bide your time, as very soon you will get an opportunity to present your side of the case in front of seniors. A quiet and calm approach will sort out things to the satisfaction of all concerned. Health will be good. Mood: Focused and clear.
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If I talk tech, the year that just went by was more about the touch and feel of new gadgets. There was little time to explore the sea of things that one can do on them. I bet you are as tired of using your tablet for the same games, music and weather apps as I am. Just as 2013 set in, one of the many New Year resolutions I made was to dig through my tablet for some meaty and unique content. It was a revelatory journey. Here’s what I found.
For those who enjoy movies, this is one of the most fantastic offerings from a tablet. Movies are best seen on widescreen tablets such as Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 or HP
TouchPad. They support common video formats such as DivX, XviD AVI, Matroska MKV and Adobe Flash videos. Do note that the iPad only supports MPEG4/H.264. Where can you get these movies? Google Play is a good place to access good movies. We’ll discuss that
next.
Inkaar is all about people being caught in a certain situation and how they deal with it, the underlying theme being sexual harassment
Rumour has it that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan could be pregnant again and she is in no hurry to lose the baby fat. This is confusing because there have been stories of her looking slim and also being signed on for Karan Johar's mega project. So will she have baby number two and then get back to films?
Actress-turned-filmmaker Pooja Bhatt is receiving threatening and obscene calls from an unidentified number. Bhatt lodged a complaint yesterday afternoon at Bandra police station. “One detail has been officially established-the abusive/threatening calls I received are from Maharashtra itself. The enemy within?” she said.
All is well in Farah Khan’s world. The filmmaker-choreographer-turned-actress recently celebrated with her husband Shirish Kunder, kids and close friend Shah Rukh Khan. They played games and Shah Rukh let Farah win as it was her birthday. He even got a special cake for her, based on their next film together Happy New Year. As they say, all is well that ends well.
Yash Raj Films unveils its plans, for what promises to be a long-term strategy of the Studio, by announcing a three film co-production deal with Dibakar Banerjee Productions. “This is new, promising and exciting. Adi and I have different and individualistic creative visions while sharing a tremendous synergy in our ambition to take Indian cinema to new milestones at home and abroad. We decided to embark on this venture almost immediately after our very first meeting," said Dibakar.
Siddharth Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra are being paired together in a new film produced by Phantom Films and directed by Vinil Mathew. It will be a romantic comedy and Siddharth's first solo outing since Student of The Year.
Arshad Warsi has opted out of Rajkumar Hirani's Peekay in favour of Abhishek Choubey's Ishqiya sequel. The dates for shooting are clashing and Arshad has made his decision.
Shahid Kapoor has one of the best bodies in the industry and his dedication to fitness is amazing!
Salman Khan is ruling television as well as the silver screen. He had a good run on the small screen with Bigg Boss 6 this season. In a candid interview, he talks about this season, the contestants and who he thinks might win.
Actress and Indian Idol host Mini Mathur, who recently shot for an episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 6, believes that a TV host's job is highly underrated. "On the sets of KBC this morning as the "expert" lifeline. THIS is the way a host should be allowed to prepare for an episode. Sighhhh.." she tweeted.
Who does not remember Mallika Seth of Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin and Tanya Virani of Kyuki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi? Her roles in Kasamh Se, Phulwa, Ammaji Ki Gali and Devon Ke Dev Mahadev were widely appreciated. And now popular model-turned-actor as well as anchor Rakshanda Khan is coming up with another powerful character, Kusum, in Sahara One’s Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka Aangan Hoga. This family show from the Rajshri Productions house has completed 200 episodes. The Mumbai-born graduate in English literature is excited to essay the role. We catch up.
You share your birthday with Gemma Arterton (January 12, 1986), who is an English actress. She played the eponymous protagonist in the BBC adaptation of Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles, and starred in the feature films St Trinian's, the James Bond film Quantum of Solace, Clash of the Titans, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time and Tamara Drewe. She was nominated for a BAFTA, in the Rising Star category.