Return to the roots
Bollywood actors Om Puri & Divya Dutta, who staged Teri Amrita in Ludhiana, feel being Punjabis has definitely helped them in getting a foothold in the industry
Poonam Bindra

Om Puri & Divya Dutta Her sweet, husky voice mesmerises as the petite Diya Dutta recalls her days of Veer Zara under the Yash Raj banner.

The character sitting so pretty on this young actress catapulted her to fame and thus began the incredible journey of this Ludhiana girl from the annals of the Government College for Women and Sacred Heart School Ludhiana to the corridors of Bollywood.

“I feel that I have actually bloomed and my constant endeavour is to touch base with my roots and that’s what helps to maintain my equanimity there,” she says.

Vouching for the significant and prevalent Punjabi influence in the movies she says it is nothing new for it dates back to the days of Waqt and also attributes the basic character traits of being “chulbula” makes a movie high on the entertainment scale!

Having worked with all the best actors of Bollywood, Divya would want to have the experience of working with the stalwart, Aamir Khan. When quizzed about the trend of the Bollywood heroines marrying affluent business men she tacitly quipped with a merry twinkle in the eye “That is an individual stand, only Mr Right has to come along.”

Feeling awed by performing in the Punjabi adaptation of Tumahari Amrita—‘Teri Amrita’ especially with the veteran Om Puri who has incidentally tutored her in the right Punjabi intonations for this performance.

Feeling a special delight in addressing guests as uncle and aunty the Sahnewal gal muses “Ae zabane dil , Gar main chahun , har cheez mukabil aa jaye, manzil pe do gaam chalo aur manzil samne aa jaye”!

Old is gold

Reminiscing the thrill of teenage days when he would tie up a bundle of parathas  and cycle for 30 km as an enthusiastic 15-year-old, the doyen of Bollywood and theatre, Om Puri truly embodies the spirit of the jingle ‘Hum main hai hero’.  He says, “I distinctly remember it was a Hero cycle!” As being noticed and launched by the doyen of theatre Harpal Tiwana, Puri feels that the Punjabi grind has really helped him to be where he is today.

Having done significant roles in about 20 Hollywood movies the seasoned actor feels that  one needs to follow some of their traits and inculcate discipline into filmmaking to be competitively global in the field of cinema.

All sorts of acting comes naturally to him but “working in Punjabi movies warms the cockles of my heart,” he says. He is looking forward to two Punjabi movies, one with Gurpreet Guggi as co-actor and one to be directed by Prince.

Horse power
Gagan K. Teja

While the trend of keeping horses may be fading away due to busy lifestyle and the kind of attention they demand, Patiala-based Sumrinder Sira, who is working as an assistant professor in the Department of Business Management at Punjabi University, has kept his passion for horses alive despite his busy schedule. 

Struggling between job and family, Sumrinder has not only managed to raise a proper farm for his beloved pets but has also groomed them so well that his horses and mares have been winning laurels in various horse shows throughout the state making him a popular name among horse lovers.

Sumrinder is now a known name in Punjab as far as competition in indigenous horses is concerned. Sumrinder now has a herd of 15 horses and mares and plans to expand his herd in near future.  

While Sumrinder’s great grandfather used to import horses from Kabul during his time, he did not take much interest in horses during his early teens as he was away in Shimla for his studies. It was only after his marriage to Raminder Kaur, who hails from Desu Malkana, Kalanwali in Sirsa, Haryana, that he started taking interest in horses since his in-laws used to keep horses.

“Raminder’s family used to keep horses and they certainly were their proud possessions. Soon, I started admiring them and decided to purchase one for myself. So, I did a lot of research on both thoroughbred and indigenous horses but later decided on purchasing an indigenous one since I was not looking for commercial gains. I did not even want to enter my horses into commercial races. My first purchase was Noor some 15 years back,” he says.

Having set up a farm for his horses at Dakala road, some 5 km from Patiala city, Sumrinder has been preparing his horses for various shows and competitions. His latest achievement has been with his filly Gul, which won first place in Patiala district and was second in all Punjab meet at Muktsar. He has also sponsored first of its kind endurance races for indigenous horses in Punjab in 2010 and 2011.

Now he is looking forward to promoting Punjab breeds in the state since he feels that despite the fact that Punjab breeds are much stronger, they are not very popular in the state. 

Winner takes it all!

Diwali bonanzas, bumper prizes, lottery tickets; how often are they taken seriously? When was the last time you retained the coupon number and cared to tally the actual prize numbers? Once in a while, the assured first, second and third prizes come true.

Rajeev Bhandari, a Chandigarh-based government employee, got to drive a Volkswagen Jetta back home, courtesy the Sparkling Diwali Contest by Bajaj Finserv Lending. Shares the winner, “I received an email and we participated in this contest online. I just bought a refrigerator during the Divali season.” Who could’ve thought of winning a car? “We didn’t believe in such contests and it obviously feels great, “ he says. —TNS 

Tipsy-turvy
Whiskey alone cannot be the lifeline of a party. Mix and match different liquors, add a dash of creativity and a funky name and voila, you have a heady concoction to make your party rock!
Jasmine Singh

It’s moving beyond the obvious; it’s about keeping the regular aside and saying cheers to the new. It’s called the hard drink concoctions. And if you are in the ‘what’s in a name’ category, then you can suit yourself with the 
new cocktails that will give a spin to the regular hard rum, whiskey, gin and vodka.

As for all you women out there, who begin the ritual by smelling the drink, a few pleasant add ons will not only kill the ‘harsh’ smell but also brighten up the taste. We only suggest a few winter concoctions, it is up to you to lift one or stick to the lemonade!

Mix & blend

This was long time back when rum was harsh and flavouring options were limited for farmers in Cuba. They started out with something we call a mojito. Sugarcane, lime and mint, someone made a concoction and passed it on to us to make more changes as and when required. Vineet Mishra, a cocktail jockey from Chandigarh, says out loud and clear, without any added flavours! “If you want to have a regular rum with hot water and or whiskey with coke do it at home, but if you are stepping out for a party or a drink then look for something different.” The word is concoctions. And if you thought what best can you do with a rum or a whiskey, he quickly finds a solution to it.

Add lime, sugar syrup, soda, mint to the whiskey, or replace soda with cranberry juice to call it a Scottish Screw. A couple of additions more and you are ready with whiskey with a difference. “Whiskey, ice cream, few drops of lichi and pineapple juice, two fresh green chilies. Blend it nicely and enjoy the warm drink,” he adds.

For those of you who have a lifelong relation with coffee, here is what you can do with it. Some hot coffee, dark rum, vanilla ice cream, cinnamon powder, stir it well, your perfect winter drink is ready.

Sense & sensibility

This will not make sense all the time, ice cream in whiskey! It is simply about giving a twist to the regular. As Ashish Manchanda, director Advisure Hospitality consultants, puts it, “The basic nature of hard drinks is that they are spirits. In order to balance the harsh taste they can be used as a base for mocktails, made interesting by adding various ingredients, fruit-based mixtures and anything that is edible.”

He adds, “Rum is a versatile drink and it is becoming quite popular. In addition to mojitos, now we have something new called Bojitso which is mojito and basal leaves.” Well, if you are looking for a concoction of various liquors then it is the Scorpion Bowl you should ask for.

White rum can taste different by adding jasmine or honey and apricot flavour. Vodka with lemon grass and peach juice makes for a completely new drink. Go over the top by mixing dark rum, white rum, orange, pineapple and pomegranate juice to make what is called the famous Planters’ Punch. Add cherries if the lady likes it like that!

jasmine@tribunemail.com

Legally yours 
Ludhiana-based author-advocate Harpreet Sandhu talks about the contrast between Indian and European legal system in his second book
Manpriya Singh

 Harpreet Sandhu The backlog of cases, the legal hierarchy, the infrastructure, the chambers, the bar bench relations; the differences are stark and but nevertheless, his comparison comprehensive.

The book Indo-European Legal System: A Comparative Study stays true to its indication and draws the contrast between Indian and European legal system.

“The book touches upon four different countries in Europe namely Switzerland, France, UK and Belgium,” shares the Ludhiana-based author-advocate Harpreet Sandhu.

He adds, “I was invited to observe their legal systems and for me it has been an extensive international experience. And not only of law but even their functioning.”

Right from the law emblems to witnessing their chambers and libraries, every experience was unparalleled. “Their chambers and court rooms and libraries are nothing short of seven star hotels,” he says, while sharing the photographs and flipping through the pages. As of now, it's something “we can only hope to see some day in our country.”

A foreword and recognition by the right people in the industry has helped to garner the due acknowledgement. “The book has been placed in some of the world's best libraries. It is already there in the library of House of Commons, London, The Library, Inner Temple, London, Bodleian Law Library at University of Oxford, the library at University of Newcastle.”

The initial publishing obstacles are a proverbial history now. “This is my second book, the previous one dealt with comparison between German and Indian law.”

Behind the scenes, it took three-and-a-half years of research and two visits to each of the four countries. Some of the differences, unfortunately, stand out stark and sorry. He rues, “Outside every court, there's a cause list. While in India, it runs into hundreds of cases. Over there, surprisingly, I have never seen a cause list longer than three to four cases.” It doesn't end there.

“There the bar and the bench are accorded equal status and respect. In fact, if you enter the court on any given working day, it's like a curfew area. Other than the litigating lawyers and administrative persons and officers concerned, you wouldn't see anybody.”

The observations bring us back to the starting point of the vicious circle. He shares, “To revamp our legal system, the first and foremost thing that we need to do is to shorten the length of the cases.” He adds, “Why should Lok Adalats be there? As far as possible, every case should be put on the fast track. That should be the norm.” Till that happens, meanwhile we can begin by introducing the masses to law and order. “They are so well conversant with their laws, that it is amazing,” he signs off.

manpriya@tribunemail.com

gyan zone
Fresh appeal
The Biryani and Kebab festival at JW Marriot dishes out some innovative cuisines which are as much a feast for the eyes
Amarjot Kaur

Passion, they say, is the fountainhead of creativity and the chefs at Saffron, a fine Indian dining restaurant at JW Marriot, stirred the flaming flavours of the season to create art in food at the Biryani and Kebab festival.

As Pallav Singhal, head chef, walks you through the shiny floors that lead you to a table decked up with an ensemble of over a dozen dishes, you’re already pacifying the sweet quandary that your sense of sight and smell are fighting over.

Just when you’ve made up your mind, Singhal rolls up his sleeves and points at the pre-starter that is served in an oriental-style stone bowl usually used for serving soy sauce and wasabi paste with Japanese food, “Well, now this is made of sprouted lentils and we serve it with our own rendition of Indian salsa sauce.” Attempting to explain the western infusion, he quips, “We are not aiming to infuse or mix western flavours with Indian food. We are improvising to innovate.”

His passion for food drips in every honest expression while he explains the key ingredients used for the preparation, “Since its winter, we’ve used a lot of cloves, maze and nutmeg. These spices generate heat that is essential for the body during this season.”

Among many dishes, which are as much a feast for the eyes as for the soul, you cannot stop yourself from adoring the deep wine red chukender aur khumani ke kebab that are stuffed with apricots. Also, the tandoor bharwan aloo exhibit the charm of the west as Singhal smiles, “Deepak Gurung, Indian chef for Saffron, takes the credit for coming up with this dish. It’s stuffed with cheese and ‘candied fruits’ that have been stewed in sugar to tickle your taste buds. ” Spare the exaggeration, but you will know exactly what he means when you gulp the heaven down your throat.

Perhaps it’s the chapli and kakori kebabs that melt in your mouth or it’s the divine kabargah, lamb brazed in milk and spices and then grilled to satisfy your hunger. The most unique, and a rather splendid treat for the meat lovers, is the nashelli jheenga, individual quick frozen (IQF) prawns cooked in clay oven that serve for a mouthful and a soulful delight.

Words can only say so much, however, if you want to serve your passion for food with the best in town, head out to Saffron to taste a bit of paradise.

Doc Talk
Muscular problem
Dr Harinder Batth

The locomotor system, also known as the musculoskeletal system can be affected by our daily lifestyles. The lifestyle factors like smoking, physical inactivity, obesity and heavy drinking show a high risk of locomotor disability, the impact of the above is seen 12–14 years later. Moreover, the person who suffers major cardiovascular disease such as stroke, myocardial infarction, angina or aortic aneurysm have a higher risk of locomotor disability.

Mobility factor

Leading a healthy lifestyle improves survival and reduces the risk of locomotor disability and increases the chances of being disability-free even in the event of developing major cardiovascular disease.

The locomotor system is an organ system that gives humans and animals the ability to move using the muscular system and the skeletal systems. The musculoskeletal system gives form, stability, and movement to the human body. It is made up of bones (the skeleton), muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints, and other connective tissue. The musculoskeletal system's primary functions include supporting the body, allowing motion, and protecting vital organs.

Take care

Locomotor disability has a significant effect on our daily life activities. It is therefore important to preserve the locomotor system for your personal well being. The damage that you cause to your locomotor system by working for long hours or incorrect posture must first be cured with the help of regular exercise and yoga.

It is also necessary to give your body rest after a long day’s work. Proteins are important for body’s ongoing growth, repair and maintenance. Proteins help to build and repair muscles. About 1,000 mg of proteins per pound is essential. The 2.4 micrograms of vitamin is recommended daily. The water intake is essential for the body. A lot of it is drained from the body in the form of urine and perspiration.

(Dr Batth is a Chandigarh-based orthopedic surgeon)

Future shock
Get smart!
Nishtha Shukla Anand

Two things happened recently. iPhone 5 has finally hit China (a big market for Apple) and a judge in the US has declined Apple’s request to ban Samsung from selling its smartphones. With these developments, Apple is likely to gain market share globally. Equally, Samsung is set to take away a lot from their pie. This has made the war of the titans fiercer.

Where the iPhone was a clear winner in its category till recently, the Samsung S3 came as a strong competitor for iPhone 5 in the smartphones category. The iPhone 5 and Samsung S3 have been breaking their own sales records. However, neither of the phones has a dedicated market, certainly not in India. Ours is a price-sensitive country and we take our gadgets seriously. If you’re contemplating which one to pick, let me confuse you at first.

Also in the fray is the Nokia Lumia 900. While it would be more appropriate to evaluate Nokia Lumia 920 here because it’s a closer competitor, we cannot make that comparison simply because the Finnish manufacturer does not plan to launch its newest offering in India yet.

To understand these three phones better, let’s look at them under four primary parameters—looks, technology and price.

The Look: Apple has an eye for design and that comes out well in the iPhone 5 as well. This one has a bigger screen than its predecessors and the aluminum construction makes the quality of this phone premium. Not far behind is the S3. It’s has a polycarbonate construction for a no non-sense look and it has a bigger screen than the iPhone 5 at 4.8 inches. So if you’re one for better view, S3 works in your favour. Yes, the iPhone 5 does not have a camera bump, which the S3 does have. So if you want a flat back on your phone, iPhone 5 could be your choice. For those who like colours on phones, Nokia Lumia 900 has some good options. The Lumia 900 is a more stylised phone with clean lines and a wide screen. The Technology: Samsung S3 has Google’s mobile operating system Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, which makes it a convenient phone for most users. If you’re planning to buy this phone later, Samsung is also planning an Android Jelly Bean 4.2 update to the S3. The phone also comes loaded with the S Voice, Pop up Play for viewing video while browsing and a Dropbox app.

The iPhone 5 has Apple’s iOS that makes syncing it with other iProducts a breeze. It also comes with interesting apps such as FaceTime and Passbook that are relevant to fast-paced lives. Uploads and downloads are fast on the iPhone 5 at 1.9x and 4.8x respectively. Lumia 900 is a Microsoft Windows phone, an OS that’s picking up well. It also comes with useful features such as HD video capture and front-facing camera. The XBox Live gaming and Zune music player apps also appeal. The Price: Here’s the big one. If the iPhone 5 is tempting, watch out. It’s also about a 10k more expensive. The S3 and Lumia 900 are comparable in terms of the price, heating up the war of smartphones.

(Anand is Chandigarh-based technology expert)

TRENDSETTER
Casual charm

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.

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)

first-day-first show
An average fare

  Chitrangada singh in Inkaar Directed by Sudhir Mishra, Inkaar focuses on the battle for top job between Rahul Verma (Arjun Rampal) the CEO of an ad company, and Maya Luthra (Chitrangada Singh). The events take an ugly turn when Maya, a copywriter, who gets promoted to the national creative director and board member, files a sexual harassment complaint against him.

Style up

I like the movie, it had a lot of style quotient to it. However, what it did lack was the substance. The most intense part in the movie was the argument between Rahul and Maya.

— Kavita Vashisht, student, MCM DAV

Arjun rocks

The movie was awesome. The best part about the movie was Arjun Rampal for both, his acting and looks. Also, Chitrangada's role is pretty fancy too. It qualifies for a onetime watch.

— Ruby Thakur, student, MCM DAV College

Intense fare

What I do love about the movie is the plot, however, the climax is not so good. We will wait for the sequel. I like the intensity that the movie exudes. It qualifies for a good movie.

— Sanjana, student, MCM DAV College

A still from Mumbai Mirror Mumbai Mirror

Directed by Ankush Bhatt, Mumbai Mirror focuses on the defiant cop, Sachin Joshi, who plays the role of Abhijeet, exposes the nexus between corrupt dance bar owners and the police. The movie also plays upon the issue of prostitution and drug trafficking. Among the protagonist, those who take his journey forth, include Prakash Raj, Mahesh Manjrekar, Aditya Pancholi, Prashant Narayanana and Sudesh Berry. Abhijeet gets entangled in the drug circuit, where most of his seniors are involved and ends up getting suspended from the job. How he fights back forms the remainder of the story.

Regular stuff

The movie seems to be a hodgepodge of so many films. Also, there is nothing new to look forward to. In all, it's a regular movie.

— Darshan Singh, student

Big bore

I was here to brush a few hours off the clock, however, the movie is not even worth time pass. It plays upon the major crime issues, including drugs, which is not a new concept. I think the movie was on the lines of Singham and Dabangg, but it brought about a lot of monotony.

— Tanya Malhotra, student

— As told to Amarjot Kaur

Warm treat

A range of lovely, warm woollens is available at Lajpat Rai Bhawan-15. The craft persons from various parts of the Himachal Pradesh are at the Wool Utsav to display and sell their handloom products.

The handloom on display are Kullu woollen shawls, Kinnouri shawls, pure Pashmina shawls, angora shawls and stoles. Yak wool stoles and shawls, gents lohie, woolen handmade socks, Kullu caps, woollen Tweed coats, Kangra cane furniture, Himachal leather items, Kullu woollen jackets, Kullu woollen suites and much more. Also heavy discount on all woollen items is on offer.

On till January 21. — TNS

tune in
A melodious toast... 
Manpriya Singh

Many brides walk down the aisle to the traditional bridal chorus from Wagner's Lohengrin and exit to Mendelssohn's Wedding March from A Midsummer Night's Dream. We have our version of Din Shaganan Da, the track to which most of the brides make their entry into the venue. Nevertheless, the true blue wedding music remains far from classic and close to Bollywood. Shehnai is more like a metaphor for marriage than an instrument actually played. The beat of the dhol and the string of the tumbi are more like it. Wedding songs in India remain largely influenced by the cinema.

Hall of Fame

It didn't really kick-start before the classic Aaj Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai. The champion of all wedding songs, remains at least once played despite that era and simplicity of weddings have long gone. Even though the likes of Babul Ki Duayen have been given the eternal farewell that the songs signifies.

Then there's an altogether different genre of mehndi songs, starting from Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna from the cult film Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge. Speaking of which, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, is not far behind. The wedding album of its time inspired the Bollywood tracks for years to come. No North Indian wedding is complete without the boliyan and the Wari Warsi legacy.

Fast forward to current favourites and the list runs infinite with the likes of Gal Mithi Mithi Bol, Mundeyan Di Vich, Ajj Mera Jee Karda, Veer Ji Vyon Chaleya…Each year record labels come up with the top 20 Bollywood wedding tracks of the season, the tracks that are inevitably played at the sangeet ceremonies. Then there are remixed classics, merging the different segments. Laung Gawacha, Gur Naalo Ishq Mitha…

Otherwise the songs from Cocktail, Mika's Tu Mera Hero, Teri Ore from Singh is Kinng will do too! After all, it is a big fat Indian wedding and we need to dance.

Youngster's take

The thumb rule remains the peppy and happy tracks. "Any happy track, which can be danced onto will be a wedding song. And if the lyrics are wedding-centric, nothing like it," shares Taran Gulati, a B Pharm student. His favourites remain Gur Naalo Ishq Mitha and Mumda Apne Vyah Te. He adds, "That's a happy family time. Not just any party tracks but generally songs with wedding theme or lyrics are preferred."

The wedding choreographies are largely dominated by the chartbusters of the year and so is the first dance of the couple. Opines Dilsher Bawa, DAV College student, "My personal favourites are Veer Ji Vyon Chaleya and Gal Mithi Mithi Bol. There are certain songs that last more than a season. For example, Ajj Mera Jee Karda from Monsoon Wedding." True!

manpriya@tribunemail.com

star track
Ranveer's wayward ways...
Ranveer Singh is one of the hottest newcomers of his generation but he has turned many people against him. Here is a list of people who might want to stay away

Arjun Kapoor ,   Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma,  Deepika Padukone In bad books

Arjun Kapoor: They were always rivals but now Anushka Sharma has come between them too. They have been trying to one-up each other on the sets of Gunday and this is driving the director crazy! Ranveer dislikes Arjun even more now because he has been linked to Anushka recently.

Sizing up

Shatrughan Sinha: First Sonakshi said that she had a big crush on Ranveer. Then they began shooting Lootera and Ranveer said that he would like to date her because she is the perfect Indian beauty. There were stories of an alleged romance between the two. Shatrughan Sinha squashed all those rumours. Now Sonakshi and Ranveer do not talk to each other and shooting too has been stalled for various reasons.

Once upon a time

Anushka Sharma: They bonded really well for nearly two years when they shot and promoted Band Baaja Baaraat and Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl. Ranveer has been demonstrative of the fact that he had a soft corner for Anushka and even called her "his girlfriend" once. They have been pretty on and off. Anushka has maintained that Ranveer is a friend.

On the sets

Sanjay Leela Bhansali: SLB is very particular about the way his actors look in his movies. So Ranveer had to maintain a beard for his movie but showed up on the sets clean-shaven. The director got very angry and they both fought for a while till crew members suggested that Ranveer could use prosthetics. No one wants to get into SLB's bad books. There have been many other rumours about their differences. 

Denial mode

Deepika Padukone: He is extremely close to her these days and rumour has it that they are a couple because they have been hanging out a lot, even off the sets and Ranveer has been openly affectionate towards her. Let us see if denials begin once the film is wrapped up and released. 

Fitness and beyond

Abhishek Bachchan and Bipasha Basu Abhishek Bachchan is inspired by Bipasha Basu to work out harder at the gym. He is floored by her dedication to fitness. He says that she arrives before him and leaves after him and does not miss even one day of working out, no matter where she is!




Gym time: Abhishek Bachchan and Bipasha Basu

Playing the mentor

Heidi Klum Supermodel Heidi Klum has warned young models to be careful during a nude photo shoot as it is easy to be taken advantage of on sets by photographers.

The 39-year-old German beauty, who posed nude as recently as last year for a magazine, has asked models to be vigilant and assertive, reported a website.

"When you have a good body, photographers will often be like, 'Yeah let's take this off, and why don't we lose this too'. You can quickly end up not wearing much clothing. You have to be careful and strong at saying no, especially when you're younger and on your own. Not everyone is cool and has your best interest at heart," Klum said.

The Project Runway host also said that knowledge of the modelling business comes with experience and she has learned not to be scared.

"When you're young and pretty, you can't be vulnerable. Not that I'd hurt anyone to get to the top, but you have to bring your hustle and watch your back," she added. — PTI

Justin wants to date grown up girls

Justin Bieber Teen pop sensation Justin Bieber is reportedly only interested in dating models.

The 18-year-old singer, who recently split from girlfriend Selena Gomez, is keen to date proper, grown up girls, reported a website.

"He doesn't just want the attention of little girls anymore," a source said. Friends believe Bieber's immaturity played a big part in his split from Gomez.

"Justin is super needy and can be a big baby around Selena. It is hard for him to make real friends because he likes the temporary attention of strangers, but didn't see how it hurt Selena. Selena didn't feel Justin was respectful of their relationship. She was constantly catching him in positions with other girls that would make her uncomfortable. She would get super jealous," the source added. — PTI

Kareena's fishy act!

Kareena Kapoor  Kareena Kapoor is no longer exclusively vegetarian. She has begun eating fish. This was revealed by mother-in-law Sharmila Tagore on a television show. She said that she did not cook too much for Bebo because of her vegetarian habits but now she had more options because of fish. We wonder if Bebo will start eating meat and chicken too.


Food wise: Kareena Kapoor 

Rescue ranger

Katrina Kaif Katrina Kaif is an expert when it comes to stage performances. She recently calmed Neetu Kapoor at an awards function. Neetu was nervous about dancing on stage after so many years and with son Ranbir. So Katrina encouraged her and calmed her down and even shared some tips and secrets to remember steps and make up for mistakes while on stage. The dance is the highlight of the event.




Stage managed:
 Katrina Kaif

Priyanka's seventeen retakes

Priyanka Chopra Priyanka Chopra gets star-struck! She is in awe of Sanjay Dutt. She forgot her lines and had to do seventeen retakes when she shared the frame with Sanjay Dutt. In the scene, Ram Charan Teja introduces her as his girlfriend to Sanjay Dutt's character Sher Khan. Then everyone started laughing and giggling on the sets! It was a good shot!



Awestruck: Priyanka Chopra

Best of both worlds

Drew Barrymore Drew Barrymore is officially launching her own luxurious brand of makeup called Flower aiming to bring high end quality at an affordable price. The 50 First Dates star will be launching her makeup line created by Maesa for Walmart stores. Maesa, the company that has manufactured the Flower line, uses formulas that are only made in the USA and are cruelty-free. They are planning to bring the 37-year-old Hollywood actress' favourite staples to the every woman, reported a publication online.

"I have grown up in a make-up chair. I loved watching women in this aspirational environment. But it was and always will be important to me to send messages of empowerment. And on a business level, I wanted to give women the finest formulas. They deserve to have that level of quality, and I wanted to be the brand that delivers that to them," she said.

The actress is campaigning for the product herself therefore saving money that translates into a better product and design that reflects on an ultimate premium quality product.

Flower will consist of eye, face and lip and nail products and have more than 181 products featured in its line all in bone white and roles gold packaging. The line will be available in more than 1,500 Walmart stores and online by the end of January. — PTI

Make a wish...

Siddharth Malhotra Siddharth Malhotra of Student of The Year turned 28 on January 17! He did not fly to Delhi to meet his parents because he is very busy with work. His birthday wish is to work with Kareena Kapoor. He is single and ready to mingle. May be Parineeti Chopra is interested.



Birthday boy: Siddharth Malhotra

chatter box
Replacement theory...

Ek Hazaaron TV serial Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai is on the scanner as it is getting low TRPs. After the channel ran few promos of a new show Sher Dil Shergil, buzz was that it would replace Ek Hazaaron… But then something seems to have gone wrong. As now rumours suggest Sanjay Leela Bhansali's show Saraswatichandra might replace Ek Hazaaron...

Anas loves Mahadev

Mythological show Mahadev on Life OK is a hit show mainly due to actor Mohit Raina’s performance. And while there are many fans of the show, we hear Anas Rashid loves the show too.

He has earlier done Prithviraj Chauhan and currently is seen in Star Plus’ Diya Aur Baati Hum. He watches Mahadev whenever he can and loves the treatment of the show.

Lost & found

Madhura Naik It is said that if you lose something that you love a lot, it does come back if you really wish for it. Something similar has happened to Madhura Naik.

The actress got back one of her lost bag which was stolen a couple of years ago. “The bag had among other things, my lovely wallet in which there were around 20 debit and credit cards. Also, in the bag were my driving license and other important papers.

“The thief, who had stolen the bag from my vanity van, even swiped my card and purchased jewellery worth Rs 3 lakh. Then, I had filed a police complaint about the same,” informed Madhura.

“Over the last two years, I remembered about the bag on several occasions. Hence, today I was pleasantly surprised when I got a call from the unit of Swastik Pictures (Amita Ka Amit) at the Film City that they had found my bag. It seems that the camera operator while installing some equipment in a ditch, found my bag. Apparently the thief had dumped it there after swiping my card.” “I quickly dashed down to the set and got hold of my beloved bag. Luckily, all my papers and cards were found intact. Although I had blocked most credit and debit cards, other papers were still valid,” she revealed.

Negative influence

After Parvarrish, Kamya Punjabi will be back on the tube, this time as Vishnu’s (Mrunal Jain) mother in Uttaran. Her negative character has honed Vishnu to destroy Ichcha and her family as she blames them for their ruin. Her entry will bring a rift between Thakurs and Bundelas.

Cezanne in Custody

Cezanne Khan Ekta Kapoor's next show, based on Manju Kapur's novel Custody, has been in the news for a while. Buzz is that while Anita Hassanandani might do a cameo in it and Cezanne Khan is speculated to be starring in it. Last seen in Imagine TV's Seeta Aur Geeta, Cezanne is most famous for his role as Anurag in Kasauti Zindagi Kay.

here i am: Cezanne Khan

Rap up

Gaurav Chopra Handsome dude Gaurav Chopra, who is hosting Big Switch 4 — India's Toughest Raeeszade, has a baritone similar to Amitabh Bachchan. Though people have told him so, he plays the modest card when complimented. Now, Gaurav has sung a song, a rap in the show too but for promotion only.


voice over: Gaurav Chopra

Disturbing news

Dipika Samson Dipika Samson, aka Simar in Sasural Simar Ka, is angry that some reports are insinuating that all isn’t well in her marriage. She is married to Raunak Mehta and claims she is happy. The reports of her separation and even divorce came up when news of her close friendship with co- star Shoaib was written about. She got very disturbed by the news and wants to focus just on work.

all lies: Dipika Samson

Astro turf
p Khurrana

ARIES: Be true to your ideals and don’t sell yourself short for money or glamour. A secret arrangement comes to light. Think before you speak. A good day for speculation. The search for your soulmate gathers impetus. Tarot message: Allow a sick situation blow over before starting new. Lucky colour: Olive. Magic number: 58

TAURUS: Simple things in life will bring you joy today. Do not take on too much but enjoy working through your chores one by one. A health issue could be worrying you now. Tarot message: Trust your heart and intuition rather than confusing yourself. Lucky colour: Pale green. Magic number: 46

GEMINI: A tough day, be alert and dynamic. Postpone work that requires concentration and physical effort. Relationships can be difficult with all sorts of emotion surfacing to colour the actual situation. Tarot message: You need to act for yourself. Lucky colour: Ivory. Magic number: 36

CANCER: A satisfactory day for working mothers. You will have difficulty in getting along with associates. A strong need to please someone will make you vulnerable. Think twice before giving in. Tarot message: Don’t do anything at the cost of your health. Lucky colour: Lavender. Magic number: 55 Magic number: 39

LEO: The outcome of lawsuit will be postponed due to matters out of your hands, leaving you in a limbo a bit longer. The employed will be given a special assignment with handsome incentives. Tarot message: Bury an old quarrel and be prepared to make a compromise. Lucky colour: Sea green. Magic number: 32

VIRGO: If you don’t expect the day to run smoothly, get yourself prepared. If you are traveling, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. At workplace co-operation will result in more success. Tarot message: Do not be in a rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Red. Magic number: 45

LIBRA: Make sure you have your purse or wallet before leaving home. A friend may need your support and you may need to put off your engagement to help them through a period of heartache or anguish. Tarot message: Do not leave things up to chance. Lucky colour: Crimson. Magic number: 25

SCORPIO: Do not be concerned about your business deals. They probably won’t be finalised right away. Should a friend ask you for a loan, be cautions. Tarot message: Don’t get embroiled in ventures where returns are spread over a large period of time. Lucky colour: Orange. Magic number: 30

SAGITTARIUS: Those around you could confuse you with their abstract, whimsical or vague ideas about important issues. Politicians or bureaucrats are in the limelight. Tarot message: Do not swing away from the course you have charted so far. Lucky colour: White. Magic number: 63

CAPRICORN: Strange under-currents at home can give rise to all sorts of drama. The card, The Night Princess, infuses a fairly active morning for the children. Expect excellent news concerning finance after 6 pm. Tarot message: Handle your projects secretly and carefully. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 27

AQUARIUS: You definitely do not appreciate your friend’s interference. A neighbour has some gossip to divulge. Make sure you really want to hear secrets or rumours about someone. Tarot message: Watch your action at work and polish your public relation skills. Lucky colour: Sandy brown. Magic number: 57

PISCES: You could wake up with a headache. Do not fear bad luck. This is good day for married couples. Working women: take proper care of your child’s health. Tarot message: Don’t let opposition faze you when you decide to walk the path you want to. Lucky colour: Lime green. Magic number: 31

The year ahead
Madan Gupta Spatu

If your birthday is January 19...

Chances are that you will get involved in some sort of business, which will give you profits in all possible ways. A government official might help you in your business. If you are already a businessman then you will gain higher profits from foreign sources. This all doesn't mean that the year is not good for the people who are in job. You will impress your seniors and fetch full credits for your work. You can invest and save your money safely in 2013.

Business people will be planning a journey to follow up work and also to 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.

Unemployed people are encouraged to be pro-active. If you waste time whining, you will 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. You may have to cancel your social engagement or extra-curricular activities due to heavy workload. However, your employer will suitably compensate you. Career issues will be as usual.

A quiet and calm approach will sort out things to the satisfaction of all concerned. There will also be a pleasant surprise in the form of a costly gift or some money from sources you least expected. Health will be fine.

You are ready for multitasking. You and your multiple personalities are able to accomplish some amazing feats.

In 2013, you will put as much efforts as you can, but will end up with broken expectations. You will surely get some positive results, but the problem is that your efforts will deserve even better. These situations will upset you from time to time. The stress of not getting expected results will also affect your health severely. Be positive.

You will be spending money on useless matters and therefore won't be able to save much money.

Mood: Focused, clear and insightful
Compatible signs: Aquarius, Taurus, Leo
Lucky colours: Monday.
Lucky days: Sea green, silver
Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 50, 65, 76

Kota Srinivasa Rao (January 19, 1945, Vijayawada) is a highly versatile Tollywood actor. He is famous for his roles as villain, comedy and character roles. He is praised as an actor who can act in any role. He was also elected as an MLA from Vijayawada East assembly constituency in Andhra Pradesh, India. He was born in Vijayawada in a Telugu Brahmin family. Kota started his career with many hits.





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