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The art of craft
On the ramp, designers flaunt their celebrity show-stoppers. On the ramp, they proudly present their six months of hardwork. On the same ramp, they take up a social responsibility, balance glamour with a good cause; fashion with facts of the industry. Those who still perceive fashion as the business of frivolity should open pages of pre-Independence history of India. Even when the Constitution of India wasn't drafted and the Fundamental Duties weren't specified, a few enthusiasts considered it their moral obligation to promote the Indian culture. They, as a part of the Swadesi Movement, promoted what was made in India, by the Indians. Back then, cotton and silk spun on the charkha infused a new life into the Indian tradition of weaving fabric and gave hope to weavers.
Over six decades down the line, the fashion industry still does its Fundamental Duty — 'values and preserves the rich heritage of our composite culture' — by reviving the dying crafts of India, by bringing to the forefront the weaving patterns that were considered obsolete while promoting the interest of the poor weavers. The most profound example of the same is Fabindia. Established in 1960, Fabindia stores garments and furnishings hand-crafted by the people of rural India, who get a certain percentage of the profit. On the same lines — for the cause of weavers and popular Lucknawi chikankari —Mizwan Fashion Show, presented by Manish Malhotra and backed by Shabana Azmi, is an annual affair now. If on one hand it popularises the chikankari work, on the other it supports the weavers of Mizwan village in Uttar Pradesh. And that's not all that has come from Manish in recent times; last year in February he presented the collection Gulaala or Giltoor at the WIFW, which was heavily inspired from Kashmir. The beautiful flowing silhouettes were rightly complemented by the intricate Kashmiri embroidery in colours of flowers, which dominate the expanse of the state.
"The aim of the entire fashion industry should be inclusive growth, which doesn't ignore the interest of weavers, who for all these years have earned their bread by working on traditional crafts," says Deepika Govind, the fashion designer who in 2012 was applauded by the critics for reviving the centuries old single ikat patola at the WLFW. While double ikat work takes each piece of saree beyond the reach of many, the single ikat, which Deepika worked on for practical reasons, is much more affordable. "Reviving a craft form loses its meaning if it can't be bought by people." Also some percentage of profit goes to the craftsmen. What's more assuring is that the young designers' brigade has readily taken up the social responsibility of promoting crafts and weaves. Be it the Kantha work on Benarasi sarees or kanjivaram lining on jackets by designer-revivalist Sabyasachi or experimentation with the very Indian textiles, Khadi and Chanderi, by Rahul Mishra, the young have played their role well. The strict, self-made rule of the fashion industry that a designer has to come up with a new weaving pattern each time was broken by Aneeth Arora and she takes pride in it. In fact, she has been presenting the Jamdani-based collection for three seasons now and vows to carry it on. "When I started there were just three weavers in West Bengal who were ready to work on it, the rest had left it long time back because it didn't earn them enough money even to buy two square meals for their families," Aneeth talks about her journey. Now the count has gone up to 3,000 weavers. She has even taken the collection to Paris, where the handloom was as much appreciated as clear lines of the creations. She has taken even bigger risks than this. Reviving Teliya Rumaal, the extinct weaving technique, was certainly more challenging. "People still know about Jamdani but Teliya Rummal was unheard of outside Andhra Pradesh," adds Aneeth. Fashion indeed highlights noble causes, fulfills a social responsibility and more importantly, does a fundamental duty! ashima@tribunemail.com
Past perfect
Besides bringing a craft of the bygone era to the forefront, equally important is to make it suitable for the fashion-conscious clientele. In tandem with the same was Meera and Muzaffar Ali's campaign, which catapulted chikan, zardosi, kamdani, tukdi and other hand embroideries into the mainstream. It's not that the designer couple was only working for the cause, they did introduce substantial change through their label Kotwara, which was established in 1990. It supports the Dwar Pe Rozi Society—Employment at Doorstep—which works for the cause of women in rural India by providing them employment through craft, thus fulfilling two important purposes.
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For the people, by the people
A compilation of incidents go on to define our course in life. Some of these incidents shape the future of the country as well, at least they shake us up and rest is what we do of them. The country witnessed a gruesome tale of horror pretty recently; souls stirred, eyes cried, hearts sank… with a pile of ifs and but, doubt and hope we move to our Republic Day in 2013.
This Republic Day how many of you stand and vow to bring about a change in your surroundings? Making a difference Dr Param Preet
Ghuman, medical officer Each day is a new day for me. I clean the slate of my mind and then see people. I am in a profession where I can make a lot of difference to the lives of people. Rather than just treating it as a job, I look at it as my spiritual and moral duty. I don't feel the need to open a charitable hospital because if I do my duty sincerely everyday, rather than cribbing and blaming the system, I will be more at peace. I vow: Apart from fulfilling the dreams of family, I strongly believe in doing the same for someone else also. So, whenever I have a chance to financially help someone with education, I do it thinking of it as a blessing for me. Small
gesture Munish Bajaj, hotelier The desire for money is endless, but there comes a point when we have to sit up and do more. We will never be satisfied with the system; we will always have a problem with its functioning. Malpractices continue despite every form of revolt. The next best thing is to bring in the little difference. I started with a humble beginning, now I want to help generate employment for people who have the skills required for the beauty industry. As many as 2,000 people are trained and given work each year in our franchise salons. I vow: Beauty is not superficial; it is as the cliché goes skin-deep. A small gesture can bring a smile to someone's face. I pick and train people from lower strata of the society so that they can become independent. Helping
hand Satish Chander, entrepreneur Society has given me a fair chance to impart education, which is the best I can do for it. I am associated with an NGO, National Federation for the Blind, which came into being in 1970. We try our best to assimilate the visually challenged into mainstream life. I vow: I don't believe in payback time. I feel each day is about giving. Even if I am able to feed one person a day, I feel grateful to god. Besides, I want to see an educational institute where skills are imparted at a very low cost. Be wary RJ
Pankaj, radio jockey Do we need an incident to wake us from slumber? If only we are aware and react to unjust happenings around us, we wouldn't have to see such heinous incidents. Let's be aware from the word go. I vow: The youth is definitely the future of our country. I would make an organisation where they can share their problems and get advice. Women
empowerment Yami Gautam, actor It is not possible to be a part of a social cause always. Whatever I can do through the medium I am working in, that is films, I would be glad to do so. Films like English Vinglish and even Kahaani portrayed women in a strong independent light. I vow: Whenever I get a chance to advocate a cause through an event, I would definitely do that and also through my films. Sporty
spirit Akhil Kumar, boxer Being a sportsman, I can contribute to the society. We are generally thought of as being less educated; however, I feel we can contribute a lot. Apart from being a good sportsperson, I always advocate that we should be a good human being first. I vow: Instead of finding fault in the government or the surroundings, we should first improve ourselves. That is my
aim. jasmine@tribunemail.com
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Soha gets candid
Soha Ali Khan talks about her equation with Saif Ali Khan, sister in law Kareena Kapoor and her marriage plans…
Saif talk Believe it or not, he has not seen of my films except half of Soundtrack. He does not have much of a say regarding my career. He is my older brother so he provides me privileged insights into movies, life, relationships and much more. Balancing act Kareena has not changed after marriage and has been the same person she was five years ago. She is lovely and I respect her immensely. We all get along and hang out often. She has two focuses in her life: my brother and her movies. She is balancing both of them very well. Women power I think actresses in Bollywood take more risks than the actors and work harder than them. We do not have as many scripts and roles written for us compared to the guys. I think the actors stick to their personas and do what their fans would like them to do. Positive steps If you see my first movie and you see my movies now, you will definitely see a positive change. I was terrible in my first movie. I have learnt to relax and breathe and made friends with the camera. People say that Rang De Basanti is my best work but I feel and know that I have done better work since then. Knot now There is no wedding on the cards for me this year. I have a bad memory and I do not dwell on the past or worry about the future. I will get married and will announce it when it happens.
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Bollywood condemns ban on Vishwaroopam
Shekhar Kapur: ‘Just checked @HotelBelAir in LA. Just met Kamal Hassan looking calm n strong despite d storm around #Vishwaroopam. For a man facing a ban on his film n loss of over 60cr #KamalHassan has d calm look of a man who completely believes in what he is doing. I stand up for #kamalhassan right 2 show d world #vishwaroopam n let d people decide, especially after Censor Board has passed the film.You?’ Anurag Kashyap: ‘How Can anyone decide what the film is about without seeing it? and how can the government pander to such groups? #Vishwaroopam’ Madhur Bhandarkar: ‘I'm appalled by the TN Govt's decision 2 ban Kamalhaasan's #Vishwaroopam. After d film has passed by d censor board. Not done!!!’ Manoj Bajpayee: ‘Its disappointing to hear that state gov of tamilnadu banned vishwaroopam after the film is censored.that brings the importaceofcensorinques’ Prakash Raj: ‘BAN on vishwaroopam . NOT FAIR. This cultural terrorism should stop. We should stand for the right to express. We are with you kamal sir. When Tamil , Telugu n Hindi three censor boards of this democratic country has cleared vishwaroopam. Where does this ban come from???’ Mahesh Bhatt: ‘The Supreme Court order had quashed the decision of the Uttar Pradesh State Govt suspending the screening of the film 'Aarakshan' in UP. The apex court said: It is for the State to maintain law and order situation in the State and, therefore, the State shall maintain it. It clearly stated that once the Censor Board has cleared the film for public viewing, screening of the same cannot be prohibited.’ A still from Vishwaroopam
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Together again
When Shah Rukh went up on stage, he announced that he had sent his co-host for the night — Saif — to his honeymoon. He declared that he wanted to steal the limelight and thus thought this idea was fit. He also made some funny comments about Kareena’s new name after her marriage to Saif. He said, “Kareena Kapoor Khan Pataudi, kaafi lamba naam ho gaya hai na!” When Saif Ali Khan took to the stage both Shah Rukh and he announced that they were back at the awards ceremony with their “cheap jokes”. They mentioned this beforehand like every year to steer clear of any personal clashes with anybody after the show. Saif Ali Khan too did not spare himself. He joked about the debacle that Agent Vinod was. He said, like every onscreen mother, who went against their son in Hindi movies like Deewar and Mother India, his mother too wanted to kill him after Agent Vinod. Shah Rukh Khan’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan co-star Katrina Kaif had been missing from the event. Shah Rukh and Saif did not even spare her. When Saif questioned why she had not made time for the show Shah Rukh readily answered, “She’s not nominated, na!” All in all, the 58th Filmfare award event was a grand night thanks to its hosts.
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first-day-first show Starring Saif Ali Khan, John Abraham, Deepika Padukone, Jacqueline Fernandez, Ameesha Patel and Anil Kapoor, Race 2 has been directed by
Abbas-Mustan. Too spicy I wanted to see Race 2 because I really liked its prequel. However, the film stands nowhere in comparison to Race. It's way too glamorised and has no substance to it. The plot could have been a little better.—
Anil Sharma, Student of Punjab
University, Chandigarh One-time watch I liked the movie but, you can only watch it once. There is nothing more to the movie than entertainment and it is definitely not as good as its prequel. However, I like the songs and both the ladies, Jacqueline Fernandez and Deepika Padukone look ravishing.
— Aditi Sharma, a housewife Dry plot It's an entertainment flick. If you like the cast, you must watch the movie once. The only problem with the film is that it will be compared with the standards of Race, which did set high expectations. I liked the movie. It's a Bollywood 'masala' film and not a bad option for time pass.
— Naina, Student of MCM DAV College for Women, Chandigarh AKAASHVANI The love connect — As told to Amarjot Kaur |
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Punjabi scope
For quite sometime, it does not register. He is the same person the entire country has been gunning for...reasons far too many. Yo Yo Honey Singh makes his acting debut with the Punjabi film Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22, produced by Speed Surya Movies, and he looks and does absolutely fine. No beeps, no
hathiyar, no 'rate', everything goes off well. While Honey Singh walks away with appreciation from the audience as the happy-go-lucky Rolly of Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22, much credit goes to the debutant director Amit Prasher for balancing the act. Starring Amrinder Gill, Mandy Takhar and Binnu
Dhillon, this movie was much awaited for one name, Yo Yo Honey Singh. Once you come out of the theatre, you have many more reasons as for why does it make for an interesting watch. A storyline which is fun, somehow reminds you of Govinda and Sanjay Dutt from Haseena Maan
Jayegi, but nonetheless funny. After so many laugh-a-riot movies, you expect every Punjabi movie to drown you in laughter. The dialogues and punches hit you from nowhere. Binnu
Dhillon, BN Sharma and Yo Yo Honey Singh call for applause on this. Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22 is a story of two brats who learn the way of life in their own difficult way. Rolly and Robby after partying hard on their father's money in Australia move to India to earn Rs 30
lakh, and this is where everything starts. The come the pretty ladies. Mandy Takhar and Wamiqa Gabbi add the beauty element. Tu Mera 22 captures all the good things that Punjabi cinema should focus on. Crisp editing makes the scene snappier and interesting. The same goes for the music of the film done by Honey Singh. With Alfaaz's lyrics the music definitely gives you many foot- tapping moments. Handling two big actors in a big frame is not an easy task for any director. Amit Prasher justifies why both Yo Yo Honey Singh and Amrinder Gill deserve equal points.
Amrinder, who is generally seen as a soft, romantic at heart actor in most Punjabi films, plays his part well. If you want a laugh your gut out, hear the tap of your shoes, Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22 gives you the moment.
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Arbaaz to step into Sohail's shoes
According to a reliable source, Sohail will get busy with the production work of the Salman Khan-starrer Radhe from next month. This would leave him with little or no time for the show. Therefore, he preferred opting out of the show for a while. However, to make up for his absence, his elder brother Arbaaz Khan will take his place. The makers felt that nobody else could take Sohail's place better than Arbaaz. Hence, they approached him and the Dabangg 2 director gave his nod. Accordingly, Sohail will be shooting with the Comedy team till end of this month.
Jayshree's lucky charm Jayshree Venketaramanan aka Nanhi in Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha season 2 has a secret. This pretty lady has a big mole on her chin but it is hidden so well with makeup that very few people know about it. She considers it lucky charm.
In Uttaran, Kanha (Chaitanya Chaudhary), who was helping Mukta (Sreejita De) uncover Vishnu-Akash's (Mrunal Jain) truth, will feel she's faking it and wants to destroy Meethi (Tina Dutta). But Mukta will not give up. She will learn that the real Vishnu visits someone on Satara jail and will go there to meet him.
Deepika shared a lot of lighter moments with the contestants during her visit. While she had some really cute moments with Amar and Charlie, the diva also shook a leg with Rahul Mahajana, Neelu Wagela and Arvind on one of her popular tracks. The theme for all the dance performance was 'Around the world' where they couples had to dance on various international dance forms keeping in mind the Bollywood tadka. Judge Terence gave a special performance along with the Malkam group. While most of the jodis came out with some really path breaking performances, there was only one couple that became the best performers of the week. Catch Deepika on Nach Baliye-5 on January 26 on Star Plus.
No vote: Smita Bansal & Ankush Mohla
Back to life?
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The year ahead
If your birthday is January 26...
This year, your energy level will be higher than expected. You will be able to perform more than your ability. Channel this properly to materialise your ambitions and goals in life. The last quarter of the year will be much better in terms of your physical and mental health. Some mental pursuits shall also keep you better and moving. If you are too wrapped-up in your perceived problems, you will miss an opportunity that will lead to a romantic renewal. Don't focus too much on what you don't have, or you will become resentful. Your mischievous side is coming out. Normally, you're quiet and placid. Now you're ready to stir up a little trouble. Laughing and gossiping with friends lets you forget your problems. Beware of saying anything malicious. Plan a short trip to visit a favourite relative. This visit will remind you of happy times. A business proposal which had fizzled out earlier gets revived and on more beneficial terms and conditions. You should concentrate on your work and derive maximum advantage from the current favorable planetary trends. The Saturn will fill you with energy and you'll want to bring about changes to your job. Do not be in too much of a rush, use your time wisely. Work wise, you will experience disagreements. The stars recommend lucidity. There is likely to be some disagreement between you and your parents regarding a family matter. Do not get provoked into an argument, for this could lead to unpleasant situations at home. Your main focus should be your children. Take care of their needs by judging them yourself as your children lacks communication and concentration power. They will find it difficult to express themselves. Your children should donate food and clothes to needy as a remedy this year. It is necessary to devote some time to maintain your health. You take comfort in longstanding ties, and the people that have proven their loyalty. There's room for substantial relationships, or become more solid through your shared sense of what makes a home. Mood: Busy and productive
Maria Goretti (January 26, 1972, Goa) was a popular MTV VJ before marrying actor Arshad Warsi. She hosts a TV show, Do It Sweet on NDTV Good Times. She made an appearance with her son Zeke in the film Salaam Namaste which also starred her husband. She also acted in Raghu Romeo (2003) which was directed by Rajat
Kapoor.
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Astro Turf
ARIES: Recognise your behaviour and try to keep a check on your temper. Turn a blind eye to unsavory suggestions. A compulsion for romance can lead you astray. Tarot message: Empty promises are certain, therefore try to put your terms and conditions in writing.
Lucky colour: Sea green. TAURUS: Use this day to rest and recharge your batteries. Taking time out for yourself, every now and then, would be a good idea. While health would be stable, it is advisable to be cautious while driving. Tarot message: You find within yourself a fountainhead of a will power. Lucky
colour: Red. GEMINI: Be compassionate and considerate towards your partner and let them be absolutely open and frank with you. The presence of Venus will shower you with love, romance and passion in relationships. Tarot message: Do what is right and watch your best interests. Lucky
colour: Orange. CANCER: Health will be a matter of concern, especially, as the planets that are in your solar health house will create some problems. At home, a past conflict will resurface and create some stress. Tarot message: You are advised to focus on professional changes. Lucky
colour: Turquoise. LEO: The day will focus on your adaptability to changing situations and also, your own ability to change in various ways. Due to your new-found confidence and assertiveness, you will face some resistance. Tarot message: You must share responsibility with others. Lucky colour: Peach. VIRGO: With celebrations and get-togethers happening all around, your social life will be hectic and exciting. Singles will be looking for someone special to bond with; however, things will not go very smoothly. Tarot message: Think positive and be optimistic. Lucky colour: Sea green LIBRA: Business people should consider entering partnerships or joint ventures with like-minded individuals. This is a good day to travel and get in touch with relatives and friends. Tarot message: You gain by being practical; so don't be emotional. Lucky
colour: Mauve. SCORPIO: Some relationships will grow closer and more intimate. The focus of the day will be on getting in touch with your true self and your own needs. Be receptive and open to new ideas and people. Tarot message: Focus new light on your emotional and spiritual space. Lucky colour: White. SAGITTARIUS: The presence of the full moon in your own sign increases your sense of perception and intuition. As a result, you will be able to pick the vibes of others and respond accordingly. Tarot message: At work don't hold back anything from your employer. Lucky colour: Golden brown. CAPRICORN: You will have to make a personal decision towards the middle of the day and this will bring about a change in the way you are perceived by everybody. Many of you will be inclined towards religion. Tarot message: By applying yourself you can attain great success. Lucky colour: Purple. AQUARIUS: Memories, romance, feelings and emotions will be the focus of the day and will have long-term influences on your relationships. It is important that you learn from the past and move forward. Tarot message: Focus on the better to mitigate the bitter. Lucky colour: Pale yellow. PISCES: Your competitive nature will help you stay ahead of others. Social activities will be highly encouraging. Transfer and promotion for some employees cannot be ruled out. Tarot message: You have to push yourself to succeed and your efforts will pay off. Lucky colour: Aqua. Lucky number: 59
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Bollywood stars condemned Tamil Nadu government for seeking a ban on Kamal Haasan’s latest Tamil film Vishwaroopam and called it unfair. Here’s what they tweeted:
Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan have hosted the Filmfare awards for quite a few years. Then it was others who took it up like Ranbir and Imran. However, now the duo of Shah Rukh and Saif were back. They hosted the 58th Filmfare Awards held this year.
Movie: Tu Mera 22 Main Tera 22
Comedy Circus Ke Ajoobe on Sony TV is in for a change as Sohail Khan, who is currently seen judging the show with Archana Puran Singh, will be taking a break from the show.
Moustache problem
Never say die
Deepika shakes a leg with Rahul
Exit point
