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In comic vein
Punjabi movies are the order of the day — here comes the announcement of yet another romantic comedy Ik Waari Haan Karde.
Clean fun with a message Helmed by Naresh Singla, who has to his credit commercials, music videos and experience of being assistant director in some Bollywood movies, Ik Waari purports to be comedy with a deep message. Singla finds inspiration from the 'King of Comedy' Jaspal Bhatti. "It was only him who could give a message though clean entertainment. Mine is an effort to follow in his footsteps," says the director whose Risky Munde, another Punjabi film, is awaiting release. Why only comedies in Punjabi cinema? "They click with the audience. And, we are not yet ready for experimentation." The story is by Singla. In fact, he had another story on a prostitute's life that he intended to make in Punjabi but on Ekta Kapoor's advice, will do in Hindi. This one is titled Pyar Do, Pyar Lo. She was insistent that Punjabi cinema and audience is not yet ready for serious subjects." Singla aims to rope in a top Bollywood actress for the same. Ik Waari, he asserts, is going to be a total family entertainer with not even a single vulgar word. In footsteps of Travolta Nav Bajwa from Patiala is a civil pilot aspiring to make his mark as an actor. With two Punjabi films to his credit already, he is working on four more. Two out of which are Punjabi, one Bengali and one Hindi. "It was dream to fly and to act just on John Travolta's lines. He flies frequently and is an awesome star. I am glad I am living some of that," says Nav, who is playing a rockstar in Ik Waari. The best foot forward It was tad difficult to put this babe in skirt and high heels in place…Nidhi Uttam, who plays Nandini in popular serial Yeh Rishta Kya Kahlata Hai donned a different look and is all set to give Punjabi cinema a hearty try. "It makes perfect sense to be the part of a growing industry," says Nidhi, who plays a casting director in the film. A black belt in karate, she intends to continue television as long as people accept her; post that she has a career as a graphic designer to fall back on. "Playing a cripple for four long years on a TV show has been a challenge, but it has got me immense recognition. People ask my mother when did I get polio and when they see me walking in the malls, they run to ask me when I got well," she laughs. More to the story Dinesh Mehta, who plays a farmer's ambitious son wanting to settle abroad in Ik Waari, has been part of serials Jhansi Ki Rani, Mahadev and Love Marriage ya Arranged Marriage. It's Bollywood that he aims at next after Punjabi cinema. Vivan Arora is a political aspirant in the film. This guy from Ludhiana has been part of commercials and also on with his first Hindi film. Garry Sohal plays the negative lead while Rhythm Arora, Ravneet and Manpreet Kaur play the love interests in the film. The story that revolves around four couples is set to hit theatres in September. mona@tribunemail.com
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Cinema & its scope
His father Balraj Sahni threw caution to the winds during the struggle for independence while carving a niche for Indian theatre and propelling what they call — the natural school of acting. To honour his father's profound love for Punjab, veteran actor Parikshit Sahni turns back to his roots and takes a walk down memory lane. In pursuit of creating a rather distinguishable cut that defines the character of Punjabi cinema, Sahni says, "Punjabi cinema, which is growing by the day, needs to be organised. It is for this reason that the North Zone Film and Television Association was created."
As he continues to define the role of the association, he extends a vote of thanks to JS Cheema, president of the association. Cheema, who recollects meeting Sahni for the first time during the shoot of Chann Pardesi in 1978, says, "It was perhaps Sahni's genius that played a vital role in shaping the script of the film. If not for him, we would have let the villain die but he asserted that he should re-enter." Sahni also pours out some nostalgia triggered by his father's memory, "I remember my father narrating his experience at Santiniketan. He happened to be writing in English when Tagore asked him to pursue Punjabi literature." He adds, "It is in fact astonishing that Tagore quoted Gurbaani and Bulle Shah's couplets. Punjabi as a language can generate a strong impact." Sahni aims to explore the Punjabi cinema for which he has taken a few subjects under the umbrella of Balraj Sahni Production, "Although we have made a few films that have been bagged several national awards, we want to make Punjabi films that are realistic and in sync with our culture as well as tradition." When questioned about bringing Punjabi parallel cinema to the fore, Sahni replies, "Punjab has witnessed a couple of good art movies, including Udeekan and Anne Ghore Da Daan, which has won the National Film Award. However, I will strive to make movies that are closer to real life." So, will Punjab evolve to appreciate intellectual cinema or will it succumb to commercial pressures? Sahni reasons, "I think Punjabi cinema still has a long way to go. Cinema everywhere has been commerce-centric. It was only when a few intellectuals came forward to give it a different genre called the parallel cinema that it all changed. I reckon that cinema is a forceful medium and it does have the capability to make or break opinions. But it also does not deny anyone the
right to business; therefore it will be too much to expect art out of Punjabi cinema just yet. I will certainly try my best to inject 'substance' to any film that I make." As far as the evolution of Punjabi cinema is concerned, we have to look at its turbulent journey for the last so many years. All we need is an amalgam of introspection and retrospection, perhaps then we might frame an opinion. Change is the only constant and with its promise, Sahni sips on a cup of tea and assures refreshingly different cinema!
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Kalki’s lip service
The talented Kalki Koechlin will be seen lip-syncing a song in the forthcoming Ek Thi Daayan for the first time. All the songs that Kalki has shot for so far have been in the background. In Ek Thi Daayan she will lip-sync to Yaaram, additionally picturised on Emraan Hashmi and Huma Qureshi.
Kalki says, “I spent a long time working on the track because I also play the guitar in it. I learnt the chords and then lip-synced for the vocals. It was great fun especially because I was doing in front of the master of lip-syncing—Emraan Hashmi!" She adds, “I play the guitar in real life, so it was fun for me to bring out my musical side to the song. I learnt the chords and played them while singing. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience!" Kalki's character croons this track during a party sequence in the film. Directed by Kannan Iyer, Ek Thi Daayan releases worldwide on April 18.
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Punjabi to the core
She adds, "Our only source of knowledge of our culture and heritage was through our parents, and interaction with other Indians in Sweden. We aren't a very large community there, but a well-connected one." With just a few days of countdown to Miss World Punjaban 2013, she's getting acclimatised more and more with each passing day. "I have been staying in Khanna, near Ludhiana and visiting all the nearby villages. I think people are quite warm. Now I know what madhani is, how the saag is chopped and how a charkha is spun." Or even how the bolis are recited! "I'm getting the hang of it slowly, though it'll take time." A student of business and finance, beauty contests just happened. "I happened to meet the organiser of Miss Europe Punjaban and he asked me to participate. I won that contest last year. " The rest, as they say, is history. Something she's confident of but not complacent about, as she eagerly aims for the next title. "They check the knowledge of your heritage and culture. You should be able to speak fluent Punjabi." Just a couple of things that set the contest apart from other beauty contests. "Unlike other contests, there is no bikini round. The winner should be a brand ambassador and representative of the Punjabi culture. That is what sets these contests apart from others." Nevertheless, there's no categorical approval or refusal to films, Bollywood or other contests. "Let's just see how things roll." Getting to study for a semester in Spain, giving Bhangra lessons as an exchange student; training for a black belt in Taekwondo, switching from Punjabi to Swedish while at school…there's nothing much she missed while not growing up in India. "Honestly speaking, I don't think I missed much by being born in Sweden because I know about our culture and language as much as any youngster here. It's like people here are moving towards Western values and vice-versa. We didn't take anything for granted." A couple of frank opinions and then a couple of rehearsed speeches. "Our Punjabi culture is very rich, it's very important to not take it for granted. Just like a tree can't live without its roots, a society can't exist without being connected." Like we said, it seems like it wasn't very difficult. manpriya@tribunemail.com
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When Ranveer met Deepika
They spent most of the day shopping at the festival. Then they parted ways and met again at night in a nightclub where Ranveer had booked a VIP table for himself, Deepika, and his college buddies. So they met around midnight at the club and Ranveer introduced all his friends to Deepika. They were having drinks and basically enjoying their time together. Deepika, who wore and looked stunning in a little black dress, chatted with them very nicely and everyone got together for pictures. A couple of hours later, Ranveer asked Deepika to join him on the dance floor and they danced rather closely for nearly an hour. They even retreated into a quiet corner to chat and kiss each other on the cheek and basically have some private moments. They even clicked pictures with a staff member of the club and were very comfortable with each other and at the place. The couple left at 4 am. Ranveer confirmed that he met Deepika and Race 2 cast members in Dubai but there are pictures of only him and Deepika getting together at a club. Deepika's friend says that Ranveer invited her and he initiated the meeting in Dubai. She just went along and is going to keep quiet about her romantic and personal life for the time being.
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Honour for Rani
The actress was appreciated by the US Embassy for her contribution to the Indian cinema. Acknowledging the felicitation, the 34-year-old actress said, “It was an honour for me to be there especially because President Barack Obama’s swearing ceremony was being held on the same day in Washington.” The actress looked gorgeous as ever in a black traditional sari with gold embroidery. The actress further said that getting respected for one’s work, especially the work that she loves doing which is acting, makes her heart go absolutely crazy. The event was co-hosted by NGO Namaste America along with the US Embassy.
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Record deal
What Salman Khan wants, he gets! His star pull and power is insane and unprecedented. He has had blockbuster films such as Dabangg 1 and 2, Ek Tha Tiger, Ready, Bodyguard, Wanted and others.
From 2013, all his films that will release such as Kick, No Entry Mein Entry and the one with Sohail Khan, will be aired exclusively on one popular movie channel and for those rights, he has been paid Rs 500 crore. The channel is more than confident of the success of this venture. Let’s see what the audience has to say.
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The show goes on
…
Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai 2: Ajay Devgn and Emraan Hashmi rocked the first movie but they have been replaced (as the story goes) by Akshay Kumar and Imran Khan. Akshay Kumar plays Dawood and that is all we know so far. Sonakshi Sinha and Sonali Bendre are the female leads. The film is set in the 1980s.
Shootout at Wadala Shootout at Lokhandwala was entertaining and inspired from a true story. John Abraham headlines the sequel in the leading role of gangster Manya Surve which is supposed to revitalise his career and bring him respect as an actor. Sanjay Gupta is directing this multi-starrer which seems promising.
Krrishh 3: Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Kangna Ranaut and Vivek Oberoi star this highly awaited and grand sequel, the third in the series. Kangna apparently plays a sexy alien-like character and Hrithik and Priyanka will be hotter and more stylish than
Race 2: Race was the last fun and engaging (successful) movie that Abbas-Mustan made. This time, the players are back with Deepika, Jacqueline and John adding to the charm and glamourous appeal. Saif is back too and he looks fitter and hotter than ever! The locations are more exotic with Turkey and Greece and the stunts are even more dangerous. This one is set to succeed.
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Making it formal
Fashion is the buzz word. The bug to look suave and trendy is catching on with every body and the fashion industry has never had it so good before. Many smart ones are making heads turn. Akhil Seth, a young entrepreneur in the textile business, belongs to this category —
For me any one who wears proper shoes is stylish. Personally I go for semi-formals and try to keep the lines simple. Latest addition to your treasure of clothing or accessories… Blazers in checks from Planet Fashion. Brand crazy or street pick-up? For shoes, I want brands! Otherwise the premium Indian segment works fine for me. Who would be your style icon? Daneil Craig has it all! Who do you think is the worst-dressed celebrity? Govinda. Which look would your prefer – sporty, chic or glamorous? Sporty and glamorous. One fashion trend that goes beyond your comprehension… I have never liked putting gel in my hair. Your take on accessories? Tie pins and cuff-links always look good. What gives you a high on the confidence level? When I am well dressed in terms of neatness and a “groomed look” it sure boosts my confidence. — As told to Poonam Bindra
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Are you an action lover? Then here is why you should be waiting for Abbas-Mustan's new action thriller Race 2, the sequel to their 2008 thriller that made it big at the box-office. Shot widely in Istanbul and Mumbai, Race 2 brings back the original cast of Saif Ali Khan and Anil Kapoor with new faces like John Abrahm, Deepika Padukone, Ameesha Patel and Jacqueline Fernandes. Sultry dusky beauty Bipasha Basu who played Sonia in Race has a cameo. The plot of Race 2 moves with reckless speed from one exotic locale to another at a breakneck speed full of unexpected twists and turns. The story and screenplay is written by Shiraz Ahmed. Pritam has composed the music for this film which releases at the multiplexes and single screen theatres today all over. Race 2 promises to be more thrilling than its prequel. Akaashvani Wide Frame Pictures, the makers of hit film Pyaar Ka Punchnama are ready to take the centre-stage with yet another romantic gripping tale Akaashvani. This one will be a celebration of all things romantic. The promos have already created a viral frenzy and has garnered appreciation on all sorts of social media. Akaashvani is produced by Kumar Mangat, Abhishek Pathak, written and directed by Luv Ranjan. Nushrat Bharucha along with Kartik Tiwari play the lead roles. This romantic film has music by Hitesh Sonik. Watch the story of Akaash and Vani unfold today all over. — Dharam Pal
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It’s different
Zee TV's Mrs Kaushik Ki Paanch Bahuein is a unique show that churns new and interesting tracks every month to keep viewers glued. Whether it is the recent Time Machine track, or the one on Naagin or the presently running track on supernatural powers, the makers have always tried to give something different in terms of storytelling. The show recently completed 400 episodes. Vibha Chibber who plays the role of Bindeshwari shares, "We are very happy and feel blessed to have completed 400 episodes. We have gelled into our characters so much that I never remember that I am Vibha when I am on the sets of Mrs Kaushik.”
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Astro Turf
ARIES: The day can be somewhat tricky for relationships, so avoid getting into confrontations. Business people should plan meetings and important deals post lunch.
Tarot message: Don't do anything at the cost of health.
Lucky colour: Red TAURUS: There will be changes in the work scenario and these can have positive consequences for your career. Some of you will need to help out at home and make yourself available. Tarot message: Lack of persistence can be disastrous. Lucky colour: Cream. GEMINI: The stress and strain of work and relationships will catch up with you Stop consciously expressing your emotions in
the wrong direction. Tarot message: Don't waste an opportunity by being rash. Lucky
colour: Sea-green. CANCER: Today you will be dominated by your past, especially your relationships with family or a situation at home. You will feel drained by the demands on your time and energy.
Tarot message: Keep your eyes on the future. Lucky colour: White. LEO: The assignments at work will be more interesting than usual; however, there will be some ambiguity about certain projects that could lead to delays. So, ensure that you understand everything. Tarot message: Take care of your health. Lucky colour: Aqua. VIRGO: You will need to change the way you think, form opinions and react to situations. Let go off grudges and move forward. Socially, you will remain quite popular and busy. Tarot message: Time will heal all wounds.
Lucky colour: Turquoise. LIBRA: It is important that you remain calm and balanced, since future growth will depend much on your attitude. Change is the keyword for the day and you will have to be flexible, especially at work. Tarot message: Be positive.
Lucky colour: Lotus-pink. SCORPIO: Relationships with loved ones will demand a lot out of you today, so work hard to balance personal and professional lives. At work, you will receive the appreciation of your co-workers. Tarot message: Do not be in the rush to spend extravagantly. Lucky colour: Purple. SAGITTARIUS: Today many of you will connect with your inner self and be content with your life. Meeting old friends and loved ones will heighten this feeling. Money matters will be stable. Tarot message: Spend time meeting experienced people. Lucky colour: Saffron. CAPRICORN: Your confidence and energy will be on the high today and as a result, you will be able to shine in everything that you do. By being expressive and dynamic. Tarot message: Don't try to end all the deadlocks at one go. Lucky colour: Peach. AQUARIUS: Most of you will be domineering, reckless and strong-willed at work as well as at home. This may lead to some difficulties in relationships. Use your innate charm to win over people. Tarot message: Do not trivial problems haunt you. Lucky colour: Orange. PISCES: Although the beginning of the day will seem strenuous and emotionally exhausting, you will be able to learn a great deal from it. The festivity will bring out the shopper in most of you. Tarot message: Capitalise on your strength. Lucky
colour: Black. |
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Back in Sweden, it was a little difficult to stay connected to the roots. For someone who can recite tappe, spin a charkha and speak fluent Punjabi, it seems like it was only a little difficult. "Our parents never allowed us to speak in Swedish at home, we only had to speak in Punjabi," Amrit Parkash, 25, couldn't have been more grateful two-and-a-half-decades down the line. "I can speak Punjabi fluently and know quite a lot about the culture and history of Punjab."
Ranveer Singh had a few days off from shooting Raam Leela and Gunday. So he decided to fly to Dubai for the Shopping Festival. Incidentally, his close pal Deepika Padukone was also there promoting Race 2 with her cast members. So the ‘good friends’ caught up to shop and party.
For those attending the inaugural ball in honour of the 44th President of the United States of America, Barack Obama in Mumbai, it was a pleasant surprise to see Rani Mukerji, who graced the occasion. She was being felicitated by the US Embassy.
The year 2013 has just begun and there is an exciting line-up of movies. There are 10 sequels releasing this year as Bollywood has really warmed up to the idea of sequels with movies like Dhoom 2, Murder 2, Dabangg 2, and Jannat 2 doing super business. Here are some of the most exciting sequels releasing this year!
Murder 3: Emraan Hashmi was the lead in the first two films which were huge hits but Randeep Hooda is the object of affection of two hot women in the third movie in this series. Hottie Sara Loren has many dare-bare scenes with him and Aditi Rao Hydari has also had an image makeover and apparently plays a sexy ghost.
ever before. Vivek is at his menacing best, we have heard! It releases in Diwali and is set to become the biggest hit of the year!
Your sense of style?
Race 2
Movie mania
Hang on!
Hook, line and sinker